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Gualtieri R, De Gregorio V, Candela A, Travaglione A, Genovese V, Barbato V, Talevi R. In Vitro Culture of Mammalian Embryos: Is There Room for Improvement? Cells 2024; 13:996. [PMID: 38920627 PMCID: PMC11202082 DOI: 10.3390/cells13120996] [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: 04/30/2024] [Revised: 06/03/2024] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Preimplantation embryo culture, pivotal in assisted reproductive technology (ART), has lagged in innovation compared to embryo selection advancements. This review examines the persisting gap between in vivo and in vitro embryo development, emphasizing the need for improved culture conditions. While in humans this gap is hardly estimated, animal models, particularly bovines, reveal clear disparities in developmental competence, cryotolerance, pregnancy and live birth rates between in vitro-produced (IVP) and in vivo-derived (IVD) embryos. Molecular analyses unveil distinct differences in morphology, metabolism, and genomic stability, underscoring the need for refining culture conditions for better ART outcomes. To this end, a deeper comprehension of oviduct physiology and embryo transport is crucial for grasping embryo-maternal interactions' mechanisms. Research on autocrine and paracrine factors, and extracellular vesicles in embryo-maternal tract interactions, elucidates vital communication networks for successful implantation and pregnancy. In vitro, confinement, and embryo density are key factors to boost embryo development. Advanced dynamic culture systems mimicking fluid mechanical stimulation in the oviduct, through vibration, tilting, and microfluidic methods, and the use of innovative softer substrates, hold promise for optimizing in vitro embryo development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Gualtieri
- Department of Biology, University of Naples ‘’Federico II’’, Complesso Universitario Di Monte S. Angelo, Via Cinthia, 80126 Naples, Italy; (V.D.G.); (A.C.); (A.T.); (V.G.); (V.B.); (R.T.)
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Schmaltz L, Prudhomme T, Tsikis G, Reynaud K, Mérour I, Mermillod P, Saint-Dizier M. Sperm binding to oviduct epithelial spheroids varies among males and ejaculates but not among females in pigs. Theriogenology 2024; 219:116-125. [PMID: 38428333 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2024.02.022] [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: 11/18/2023] [Revised: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
The elimination of ejaculates and males with low fertility despite good sperm motility and morphology is crucial to maintain high pregnancy rates after artificial insemination (AI) in farm animals. The ability of sperm to survive in the female tract is particularly crucial in pigs due to the large variation in the timing between AI and ovulation and the high number of oocytes to fertilise. The objective of this study was to characterise a new in vitro model of oviduct sperm reservoir using porcine oviduct epithelial spheroids (OES) and to assess the variability in sperm binding to OES among gilts, boars and their ejaculates. Isthmic mucosa fragments were collected from gilt oviducts at a slaughterhouse, and after 48 h of culture, the OES that had spontaneously formed were sorted according to their vesicle shape and size (150-200 μm in diameter) for characterisation and sperm binding assays. The OES contained viable, cytokeratin-positive and vimentin-negative cells, of which 36.4 ± 2.0% were multiciliated. The average proportion of multiciliated cells per OES did not change among culture replicates. After co-incubation with boar fresh semen, only sperm of normal morphology were found to bind, by their head, to cilia of OES. The density of sperm bound to the OES surface increased linearly with sperm concentration. The bound sperm density on OES was used to assess the binding capacity of fresh ejaculates collected from Pietrain boars. For a given ejaculate, the bound sperm density did not vary among pools of OES female donors. The analysis of five successive ejaculates from nine boars indicated significant differences in bound sperm densities on the OES among individual boars and their ejaculates (P < 0.01). There was no correlation between the sperm bound density and sperm parameters measured by computer-assisted sperm analysis or the initial dilution of the ejaculate. In conclusion, the OES characterised in this study offered physiological conditions to study sperm binding to the isthmic reservoir and evidenced that sperm from different ejaculates and different boars vary in their ability to bind to these oviduct spheroids despite homogeneous motility and morphology.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Théo Prudhomme
- INRAE, CNRS, Université de Tours, PRC, F-37380, Nouzilly, France
| | - Guillaume Tsikis
- INRAE, CNRS, Université de Tours, PRC, F-37380, Nouzilly, France
| | - Karine Reynaud
- INRAE, CNRS, Université de Tours, PRC, F-37380, Nouzilly, France
| | | | - Pascal Mermillod
- INRAE, CNRS, Université de Tours, PRC, F-37380, Nouzilly, France
| | - Marie Saint-Dizier
- INRAE, CNRS, Université de Tours, PRC, F-37380, Nouzilly, France; Faculty of Sciences and Technologies, Tours University, F-37200, Tours, France.
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Wu WF, Yi JS, Xie X, Liu CB. Risk factor for interstitial pregnancy following ipsilateral salpingectomy? A retrospective matched case control study. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2023; 23:826. [PMID: 38037027 PMCID: PMC10687775 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-023-06132-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Interstitial pregnancy may still happen even after ipsilateral salpingectomy, resulting in massive hemorrhage. Therefore, the purpose of the study is to identify risk factors associated with interstitial pregnancy following ipsilateral salpingectomy and discuss possible prevention. METHODS We conducted a retrospective cohort study in a single, large, university-affiliated hospital. Data of 29 patients diagnosed with interstitial pregnancy following ipsilateral salpingectomy from January 2011 to November 2020 were assigned into the case group (IP group). Whereas there were 6151 patients with intrauterine pregnancy after unilateral salpingectomy in the same period. A sample size of 87 control patients was calculated to achieve statistical power (99.9%) and an α of 0.05. The age, BMI and previous salpingectomy side between the two group were adjusted with PSM at a ratio of 1:3. After PSM, 87 intrauterine pregnancy patients were successfully matched to 29 IP patients. RESULTS After PSM, parous women were more common and intrauterine operation was more frequent in the IP group compared with control group (P<0.05). There was only one patient undergoing IVF-ET in the IP group as compared with 29 cases in the control group (3.4% vs. 33.3%, P<0.05). Salpingectomy was performed on 5 patients in the IP group and 4 patients in the control group due to hydrosalpinx (P<0.05). Logistic regression indicated that hydrosalpinx was the high risk factor of interstitial pregnancy following ipsilateral salpingectomy (OR = 8.175). CONCLUSIONS Hydrosalpinx appears to be an independent factor contributing to interstitial pregnancy following ipsilateral salpingectomy in subsequent pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Fang Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, College of Clinical Medicine for Obstetrics & Gynecology and Pediatrics, Fujian Medical University, 18, Daoshan Rd, 350001, Fuzhou, Fujian, China.
| | - Jing-Song Yi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, College of Clinical Medicine for Obstetrics & Gynecology and Pediatrics, Fujian Medical University, 18, Daoshan Rd, 350001, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
| | - Xi Xie
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, College of Clinical Medicine for Obstetrics & Gynecology and Pediatrics, Fujian Medical University, 18, Daoshan Rd, 350001, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
| | - Chao-Bin Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, College of Clinical Medicine for Obstetrics & Gynecology and Pediatrics, Fujian Medical University, 18, Daoshan Rd, 350001, Fuzhou, Fujian, China.
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Besenfelder U, Havlicek V. The interaction between the environment and embryo development in assisted reproduction. Anim Reprod 2023; 20:e20230034. [PMID: 37700910 PMCID: PMC10494886 DOI: 10.1590/1984-3143-ar2023-0034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023] Open
Abstract
It can be assumed that the natural processes of selection and developmental condition in the animal provide the best prerequisites for embryogenesis resulting in pregnancy and subsequent birth of a healthy neonate. In contrast, circumventing the natural selection mechanisms and all developmental conditions in a healthy animal harbors the risk of counteracting, preventing or reducing the formation of embryos or substantially restricting their genesis. Considering these facts, it seems to be obvious that assisted reproductive techniques focusing on early embryonic stages serve an expanded and unselected germ cell pool of oocytes and sperm cells, and include the culture of embryos outside their natural habitat during and after fertilization for manipulation and diagnostic purposes, and for storage. A significant influence on the early embryonic development is seen in the extracorporeal culture of bovine embryos (in vitro) or stress on the animal organism (in vivo). The in vitro production per se and metabolic as well as endocrine changes in the natural environment of embryos represent adequate models and serve for a better understanding. The purpose of this review is to give a brief presentation of recent techniques aimed at focusing more on the complex processes in the Fallopian tube to contrast in vivo and in vitro prerequisites and abnormalities in early embryonic development and serve to identify potential new ways to make the use of ARTs more feasible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Urban Besenfelder
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Animal Breeding and Genetics, Vienna, Austria
| | - Vitezslav Havlicek
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Animal Breeding and Genetics, Vienna, Austria
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Casteleiro Alves MM, Almeida M, Oliani AH, Breitenfeld L, Ramalhinho AC. CYP19A1 TC/CC Polymorphism, along with Deletion of GSTM1 and GSTT1 Genes, Strongly Influences Female Infertility Risk. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:antiox12040940. [PMID: 37107315 PMCID: PMC10135531 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12040940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Revised: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Oxidative stress has a fundamental role in the pathophysiology of various conditions, like infertility. This case-control study was performed to assess the potential role of CYP19A1, GSTM1, and GSTT1 in modifying individual predisposition to female infertility. Genotyping of 201 women with established infertility and 161 fertile female controls was performed, and statistical associations were analyzed. For carriers of GSTM1 null genotype along with CYP19A1 C allele, there is a significant association with female infertility risk (OR 7.023; 95% CI (3.627-13.601; p < 0.001), and, also for carriers of GSTT1 null genotype along with the CYP19A1 TC/CC genotype (OR 24.150; 95% CI (11.148-52.317; p < 0.001). A positive association with female infertility risk for carriers of the C allele in CYP19A1 and null genotypes in GTSM1 (OR 11.979; 95% CI (4.570-31.400; p < 0.001) or GSTT1 (OR 13.169; 95% CI (4.518-38.380; p < 0.001) was found. When both GSTs are deleted, the risk of developing female infertility is significant, independently of the CYP19A1 genotype; when all the presumed high-risk genotypes are present, we found a significant association with female infertility risk (OR 47,914; 95% CI (14,051-163,393; p < 0.001).
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Manuel Casteleiro Alves
- Health Sciences Research Centre (CICS), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Beira Interior (UBI), 6201-506 Covilhã, Portugal
- Assisted Reproduction Laboratory of Academic Hospital of Cova da Beira (CHUCB), 6200-251 Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Micaela Almeida
- Health Sciences Research Centre (CICS), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Beira Interior (UBI), 6201-506 Covilhã, Portugal
| | - António Hélio Oliani
- Health Sciences Research Centre (CICS), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Beira Interior (UBI), 6201-506 Covilhã, Portugal
- Assisted Reproduction Laboratory of Academic Hospital of Cova da Beira (CHUCB), 6200-251 Covilhã, Portugal
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, São José do Rio Preto School of Medicine (FAMERP), São José do Rio Preto 15090-000, Brazil
| | - Luiza Breitenfeld
- Health Sciences Research Centre (CICS), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Beira Interior (UBI), 6201-506 Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Ana Cristina Ramalhinho
- Health Sciences Research Centre (CICS), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Beira Interior (UBI), 6201-506 Covilhã, Portugal
- Assisted Reproduction Laboratory of Academic Hospital of Cova da Beira (CHUCB), 6200-251 Covilhã, Portugal
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Soto-Heras S, Sakkas D, Miller DJ. Sperm selection by the oviduct: perspectives for male fertility and assisted reproductive technologies†. Biol Reprod 2023; 108:538-552. [PMID: 36625382 PMCID: PMC10106845 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The contribution of sperm to embryogenesis is gaining attention with up to 50% of infertility cases being attributed to a paternal factor. The traditional methods used in assisted reproductive technologies for selecting and assessing sperm quality are mainly based on motility and viability parameters. However, other sperm characteristics, including deoxyribonucleic acid integrity, have major consequences for successful live birth. In natural reproduction, sperm navigate the male and female reproductive tract to reach and fertilize the egg. During transport, sperm encounter many obstacles that dramatically reduce the number arriving at the fertilization site. In humans, the number of sperm is reduced from tens of millions in the ejaculate to hundreds in the Fallopian tube (oviduct). Whether this sperm population has higher fertilization potential is not fully understood, but several studies in animals indicate that many defective sperm do not advance to the site of fertilization. Moreover, the oviduct plays a key role in fertility by modulating sperm transport, viability, and maturation, providing sperm that are ready to fertilize at the appropriate time. Here we present evidence of sperm selection by the oviduct with emphasis on the mechanisms of selection and the sperm characteristics selected. Considering the sperm parameters that are essential for healthy embryonic development, we discuss the use of novel in vitro sperm selection methods that mimic physiological conditions. We propose that insight gained from understanding how the oviduct selects sperm can be translated to assisted reproductive technologies to yield high fertilization, embryonic development, and pregnancy rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Soto-Heras
- Department of Animal Sciences and Institute of Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | | | - David J Miller
- Department of Animal Sciences and Institute of Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
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Guo Q, Li Z, Jia S, Tong F, Ma L. Mechanism of Human Tubal Ectopic Pregnancy Caused by Cigarette Smoking. Reprod Sci 2023; 30:1074-1081. [PMID: 35962304 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-022-00947-6] [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: 05/18/2020] [Accepted: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
Abstract
In the past few decades, the smoking rate of women of childbearing age has increased. Epidemiological data has repeatedly shown that smoking women have an increased risk of various reproductive diseases, including ectopic pregnancy (EP), decreased fertility, adverse pregnancy outcomes, and failure of assisted reproduction. The oviduct was the target of cigarette smoke in many in vivo and in vitro studies. The fallopian tube is a well-designed organ. Its function is to collect and transport the ova to the fertilized site and provide a suitable environment for fertilization and early embryonic development. Lastly, the fallopian tube transports the pre-implantation embryo to the uterus. Various biological processes can be studied in the fallopian tubes, making it an excellent model for toxicology. This paper reviews the roles of the fallopian tube in gametes and embryo transportation, and the possible mechanism tobacco smoke contributes to tubal EP. A possible signal pathway might be a model to develop intervention of EP for pregnant women exposed to smoking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quan Guo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Heping District Shenyang, 36 Sanhao Street, 110004, Shenyang, China.
| | - Zaiyi Li
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, 628 Zhenyuan Road, Xinhu Street, Guangming District, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 510000, China
| | - Steve Jia
- RD Center, Pacificbio Inc. Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92602, USA
| | - Fangze Tong
- Murray Edwards College, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB3 0DF, UK
| | - Lin Ma
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, 628 Zhenyuan Road, Xinhu Street, Guangming District, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 510000, China.
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ITO S, YAMAGUCHI Y, KUBOTA S, YAMAMOTO Y, KIMURA K. Immunohistochemical identification of epithelial cell types in the isthmus of bovine oviduct: Comparison with the ampulla. J Reprod Dev 2023; 69:18-24. [PMID: 36450524 PMCID: PMC9939284 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2022-104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
The oviductal epithelium consists of ciliated and non-ciliated cells, and their numbers vary depending on the segment of the oviduct and stage of the estrous cycle. Compared with the ampulla, fewer cyclic changes in the number of the two types of cells occur in the isthmus. Recently, we have reported that the epithelium in the ampullary oviduct is composed of many types of cells during different translational/transcriptional states, and their numbers change during the estrous cycle. However, detailed information regarding the epithelial cell subtypes lining the isthmic oviductal epithelium has not yet been reported. In this study, we aimed to identify the epithelial subtypes in the isthmus of the oviduct using immunohistochemistry. Some similarities and differences were observed between the ampulla and isthmus. As observed in the ampulla, epithelial cells of the isthmus expressed either FOXJ1 (ciliogenesis marker) or PAX8 (non-ciliated cell marker). The estrous cycle affected the number of Ki67+ cells but not that of ciliated cells. A relatively high rate of Ki67+ cells (60%) was observed at 1-4 days after the ovulation. Interestingly, unlike the ampulla, Ki67+/FOXJ1+ cells (12.6 ± 1.1%) were discovered in the isthmus. Double staining for Ki67 with FOXJ1, PAX8, or Centrin-1 (a centriole marker) revealed that Centrin-1 was localized on the apical surface of some Ki67+/FOXJ1+ cells. In conclusion, some epithelial cell subtypes exist in the isthmus of the oviduct and isthmus-specific cell subtypes have been identified. These region-specific cells may provide functional and morphological differences between the ampulla and isthmus of the oviduct.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sayaka ITO
- Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology, Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University, Okayama 700-8530, Japan,Japan Society for the Promotion of Science, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuna YAMAGUCHI
- Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology, Faculty of Agriculture, Okayama University, Okayama 700-8530, Japan
| | - Sayaka KUBOTA
- Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology, Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University, Okayama 700-8530, Japan
| | - Yuki YAMAMOTO
- Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology, Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University, Okayama 700-8530, Japan,Laboratory of Veterinary Physiology, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo 183-8509, Japan
| | - Koji KIMURA
- Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology, Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University, Okayama 700-8530, Japan
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9
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Proteomic Differences Between the Ovulatory and Anovulatory Sides of the Mare's Follicular and Oviduct Fluid. J Equine Vet Sci 2023; 121:104207. [PMID: 36592664 DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2022.104207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2022] [Revised: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 12/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The follicular fluid and oviduct fluid play major roles in oocyte maturation, sperm activation, and fertilization. To better understand the physiological environments for equine oocyte maturation and fertilization, here we conducted the proteome analysis and comparison on follicular fluids and oviduct fluids from the ovulatory side and the anovulatory side. The results showed that there is no significant difference between two side oviduct fluids, but a total of 71 differential abundance proteins (DAPs) were identified between two side follicular fluids, of which 9 are up-regulated and 62 are down-regulated in ovulatory side follicle fluid versus anovulatory side follicle fluid. As we expected, the function classification and enrichment results indicate that up- and down-regulated proteins are largely related to oocyte meiosis, maturation and ovulation. Noticeably, among 9 up-regulated DAPs in ovulatory side follicle fluid, as the DAP with the greatest fold change, PLA2G1B may be a newly discovered component that influences the efficacy of horse IVM/IVF. The current findings add to our knowledge of the in vivo conditions and regulation of equine reproduction, as well as the regulatory mechanism underpinning alternative ovulation.
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10
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Maitan P, Bromfield EG, Stout TAE, Gadella BM, Leemans B. A stallion spermatozoon's journey through the mare's genital tract: In vivo and in vitro aspects of sperm capacitation. Anim Reprod Sci 2022; 246:106848. [PMID: 34556396 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2021.106848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2021] [Revised: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Conventional in vitro fertilization is not efficacious when working with equine gametes. Although stallion spermatozoa bind to the zona pellucida in vitro, these gametes fail to initiate the acrosome reaction in the vicinity of the oocyte and cannot, therefore, penetrate into the perivitelline space. Failure of sperm penetration most likely relates to the absence of optimized in vitro fertilization media containing molecules essential to support stallion sperm capacitation. In vivo, the female reproductive tract, especially the oviductal lumen, provides an environmental milieu that appropriately regulates interactions between the gametes and promotes fertilization. Identifying these 'fertilization supporting factors' would be a great contribution for development of equine in vitro fertilization media. In this review, a description of the current understanding of the interactions stallion spermatozoa undergo during passage through the female genital tract, and related specific molecular changes that occur at the sperm plasma membrane is provided. Understanding these molecular changes may hold essential clues to achieving successful in vitro fertilization with equine gametes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula Maitan
- Departments of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 112, 3584 CM Utrecht, The Netherlands; Department of Veterinary Sciences, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Viçosa, MG, Brazil
| | - Elizabeth G Bromfield
- Biomolecular Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, The Netherlands; Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, College of Engineering, Science and Environment, University of Newcastle, Australia
| | - Tom A E Stout
- Departments of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 112, 3584 CM Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Bart M Gadella
- Population Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, The Netherlands; Biomolecular Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, The Netherlands
| | - Bart Leemans
- Departments of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 112, 3584 CM Utrecht, The Netherlands.
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Oviduct Transcriptomic Reveals the Regulation of mRNAs and lncRNAs Related to Goat Prolificacy in the Luteal Phase. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12202823. [PMID: 36290212 PMCID: PMC9597788 DOI: 10.3390/ani12202823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Revised: 09/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The kidding number is an important reproductive trait in domestic goats. The oviduct, as one of the most major organs, is directly involved in the reproductive process, providing nutrition and a location for early embryonic development. The current study provides genome-wide expression profiles of mRNA and long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) expression in Yunshang black goat, a new breed of meat goat bred in China with a high kidding number. During the luteal phases, oviduct mRNAs and lncRNAs associated with high- and low-fecundity Yunshang black goats were identified, and their potential biological functions were predicted using GO, KEGG, and GSEA enrichment analysis. These findings shed light on the oviduct-based prolificacy mechanism in goats. Abstract The oviduct is associated with embryo development and transportation and regulates the pregnancy success of mammals. Previous studies have indicated a molecular mechanism of lncRNAs in gene regulation and reproduction. However, little is known about the function of lncRNAs in the oviduct in modulating goat kidding numbers. Therefore, we combined RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) to map the expression profiles of the oviduct at the luteal phase from high- and low-fecundity goats. The results showed that 2023 differentially expressed mRNAs (DEGs) and 377 differentially expressed lncRNAs (DELs) transcripts were screened, and 2109 regulated lncRNA-mRNA pairs were identified. Subsequently, the genes related to reproduction (IGF1, FGFRL1, and CREB1) and those associated with embryonic development and maturation (DHX34, LHX6) were identified. KEGG analysis of the DEGs revealed that the GnRH- and prolactin-signaling pathways, progesterone-mediated oocyte maturation, and oocyte meiosis were related to reproduction. GSEA and KEGG analyses of the target genes of DELs demonstrated that several biological processes and pathways might interact with oviduct functions and the prolificacy of goats. Furthermore, the co-expression network analysis showed that XLOC_029185, XLOC_040647, and XLOC_090025 were the cis-regulatory elements of the DEGs MUC1, PPP1R9A, and ALDOB, respectively; these factors might be associated with the success of pregnancy and glucolipid metabolism. In addition, the GATA4, LAMA2, SLC39A5, and S100G were trans-regulated by lncRNAs, predominantly mediating oviductal transport to the embryo and energy metabolism. Our findings could pave the way for a better understanding of the roles of mRNAs and lncRNAs in fecundity-related oviduct function in goats.
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12
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Ruiz-Conca M, Gardela J, Olvera-Maneu S, López-Béjar M, Álvarez-Rodríguez M. NR3C1 and glucocorticoid-regulatory genes mRNA and protein expression in the endometrium and ampulla during the bovine estrous cycle. Res Vet Sci 2022; 152:510-523. [PMID: 36174371 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2022.09.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/18/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
The bovine reproductive tract exhibits changes during the estrous cycle modulated by the interplay of steroid hormones. Glucocorticoids can be detrimental when stress-induced but are relevant at baseline levels for appropriate reproductive function. Here, an analysis of quantitative real-time PCR was performed to study the bovine glucocorticoid-related baseline gene transcription in endometrial and ampullar tissue samples derived from three time points of the estrous cycle, stage I (Days 1-4), stage III (Days 11-17) and stage IV (Days 18-20). Our results revealed expression differences during stages, as expression observed in the ampulla was higher during the post-ovulatory phase (stage I), including the glucocorticoid receptor NR3C1, and some of its regulators, involved in glucocorticoid availability (HSD11B1 and HSD11B2) and transcriptional actions (FKBP4 and FKBP5). In contrast, in the endometrium, higher expression of the steroid receptors was observed during the late luteal phase (stage III), including ESR1, ESR2, PGRMC1 and PGRMC2, and HSD11B1 expression decreased, while HSD11B2 increased. Moreover, at protein level, FKBP4 was higher expressed during the late luteal phase, and NR3C1 during the pre-ovulatory phase (stage IV). These results suggest that tight regulation of the glucocorticoid activity is promoted in the ampulla, when reproductive events are taking place, including oocyte maturation. Moreover, most expression changes in the endometrium were observed during the late luteal phase, and may be related to the embryonic maternal recognition. In conclusion, the glucocorticoid regulation changes across the estrous cycle and may be playing a role on the reproductive events occurring in the bovine ampulla and endometrium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mateo Ruiz-Conca
- Division of Children's and Women Health (BKH), Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences (BKV), Obstetrics and Gynecology, Linköping University, 58185 Linköping, Sweden; Department of Animal Health and Anatomy, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Spain.
| | - Jaume Gardela
- Division of Children's and Women Health (BKH), Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences (BKV), Obstetrics and Gynecology, Linköping University, 58185 Linköping, Sweden; Department of Animal Health and Anatomy, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Sergi Olvera-Maneu
- Department of Animal Health and Anatomy, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Manel López-Béjar
- Department of Animal Health and Anatomy, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Spain; College of Veterinary Medicine, Western University of Health Sciences, Pomona, CA 91766, USA
| | - Manuel Álvarez-Rodríguez
- Division of Children's and Women Health (BKH), Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences (BKV), Obstetrics and Gynecology, Linköping University, 58185 Linköping, Sweden; Department of Animal Health and Anatomy, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Spain
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13
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Jiang R, Tang X, Pan J, Li G, Yang N, Tang Y, Bi S, Cai H, Chen Q, Chen D, Wang H, Kong S. CDC42 governs normal oviduct multiciliogenesis through activating AKT to ensure timely embryo transport. Cell Death Dis 2022; 13:757. [PMID: 36056002 PMCID: PMC9440026 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-022-05184-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Revised: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Ciliated and secretory cells are two major cell types that comprise the oviduct epithelia. Accumulating evidences support a role of oviductal multiciliated epithelia for embryo transport, however the mechanisms underlying this specialized cell type differentiation remain elusive. Here, we report that CDC42 depletion in oviduct epithelia hampers the morphogenesis of multiciliated cell, and results in embryo retention, leading to early pregnancy failure. Utilizing the oviduct organoid model, we further observed that CDC42 guides secretory cells transition into multiciliated cells independent of its GTPase activity and the well-known Notch pathway. Further exploration uncovered the AKT as a novel indispensable regulator for multiciliated cells differentiation, whose activity was maintained by CDC42 through interacting with the p110β. Consistently, re-activating AKT partially incites multiciliated cells differentiation in Cdc42 knockout oviductal organoids. Finally, low levels of CDC42 and phospho-AKT with reduced multiciliated cells in the oviduct are observed in women with ectopic pregnancy. Collectively, we provide previously unappreciated evidence that CDC42-AKT signaling is a critical determinant for morphogenesis of oviduct multiciliated cell, which possesses the clinical application in understanding the pathology of ectopic pregnancy and facilitating the development of prevention strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruiwei Jiang
- grid.12955.3a0000 0001 2264 7233Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, 361102 Xiamen, Fujian China ,grid.41156.370000 0001 2314 964XCenter for Reproductive Medicine and Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Nanjing University Medical School, 210093 Nanjing, Jiangsu China
| | - Xiaofang Tang
- grid.12955.3a0000 0001 2264 7233Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, 361102 Xiamen, Fujian China
| | - Jiale Pan
- grid.12955.3a0000 0001 2264 7233Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, 361102 Xiamen, Fujian China
| | - Gaizhen Li
- grid.12955.3a0000 0001 2264 7233Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, 361102 Xiamen, Fujian China
| | - Ningjie Yang
- grid.12955.3a0000 0001 2264 7233Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, 361102 Xiamen, Fujian China
| | - Yedong Tang
- grid.12955.3a0000 0001 2264 7233Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, 361102 Xiamen, Fujian China
| | - Shilei Bi
- grid.417009.b0000 0004 1758 4591Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, 510150 Guangzhou, Guangdong China
| | - Han Cai
- grid.12955.3a0000 0001 2264 7233Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, 361102 Xiamen, Fujian China
| | - Qionghua Chen
- grid.12955.3a0000 0001 2264 7233Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, 361102 Xiamen, Fujian China
| | - Dunjin Chen
- grid.417009.b0000 0004 1758 4591Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, 510150 Guangzhou, Guangdong China
| | - Haibin Wang
- grid.12955.3a0000 0001 2264 7233Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, 361102 Xiamen, Fujian China
| | - Shuangbo Kong
- grid.12955.3a0000 0001 2264 7233Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, 361102 Xiamen, Fujian China
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14
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Kubota S, Yamamoto Y, Kimura K. A Chinese Medicine, Tokishakuyakusan, Increases Bovine Oviductal Tonus <i>via</i> G Protein-Coupled Estrogen Receptor 1. Biol Pharm Bull 2022; 45:1133-1141. [DOI: 10.1248/bpb.b22-00201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sayaka Kubota
- Department of Animal Production Science, Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University
| | - Yuki Yamamoto
- Department of Animal Production Science, Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University
| | - Koji Kimura
- Department of Animal Production Science, Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University
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15
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Lopera-Vásquez R, Uribe-García F, Rondón-Barragán I. Effect of estrous cycle phases on gene expression in bovine oviduct epithelial cells. Vet World 2022; 15:1665-1675. [PMID: 36185535 PMCID: PMC9394134 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2022.1665-1675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim: The oviduct environment is of particular importance because it is the site of fertilization and early embryo development. The oviduct, as a component of the reproductive system, responds to ovarian hormone (estradiol [E2] and progesterone [P4]) stimuli depending on the estrous cycle phase. This study aimed to elucidate the effect of estrous cycle phases (follicular and early and late luteal phases) on gene expression patterns in bovine oviduct epithelial cells (BOECs).
Materials and Methods: Oviducts were obtained from healthy slaughterhouse animals, corresponding to ipsilateral ovaries with dominant follicles or corpus luteum during early and late luteal phases. BOECs were recovered from the isthmus (IST) and ampulla (AMP), and the expression patterns of genes related to cytokinesis and mitosis mechanisms (rho-associated coiled-coil containing protein kinase and cellular communication network factor 2 [CCN2]), growth factors (insulin-like growth factor-binding protein 3, epidermal growth factor receptor [EGFR], vascular endothelial growth factor A, and EGFR), antioxidant mechanisms (glutathione peroxidase 4 [GPX4]), apoptosis (B-cell lymphoma 2), complement component (C3), energy metabolism (aldose reductase gene family 1-member b1 [AKRIB1] and solute carrier family 2), hormone receptors (estrogen receptor 1 and luteinizing hormone/choriogonadotropin receptor), and specific glycoproteins (oviductal glycoprotein 1) were analyzed.
Results: High P4 levels (late luteal phase) affected the expression of important genes related to antioxidant mechanisms (GPX4), energy metabolism (AKRIB1), growth factors (IGBP3 and EGFR), and cell growth regulation (CCN2) in the AMP. Low P4 levels (early luteal phase) affected the expression of AKR1B1, IGBP3, and CCN2. In addition, estrogen likely had an effect on OVPGP expression in the cattle oviduct.
Conclusion: Differential gene expression patterns of BOECs in the AMP during the luteal phase (antioxidant mechanisms, energy metabolism, growth factors, and immunological regulators) and in the IST during the follicular phase (glycoproteins) may influence their renewal and population proportions, modulating the oviduct environment as well as gamete and embryo physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ricaurte Lopera-Vásquez
- Impronta Research Group, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Zootechnics. Universidad Cooperativa de Colombia, Ibagué-Tolima, Colombia
| | - Fabián Uribe-García
- Research Group in Immunobiology and Pathogenesis, Laboratory of Immunology and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Zootechnics, Universidad del Tolima, Santa Helena Highs, Postal Code 730006299, Ibagué-Tolima, Colombia
| | - Iang Rondón-Barragán
- Research Group in Immunobiology and Pathogenesis, Laboratory of Immunology and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Zootechnics, Universidad del Tolima, Santa Helena Highs, Postal Code 730006299, Ibagué-Tolima, Colombia
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16
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Integrated Analysis of mRNAs and Long Non-Coding RNAs Expression of Oviduct That Provides Novel Insights into the Prolificacy Mechanism of Goat ( Capra hircus). Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:genes13061031. [PMID: 35741792 PMCID: PMC9222479 DOI: 10.3390/genes13061031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2022] [Revised: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Artificial directional selection has replaced natural selection and resulted in trait differences across breeds in domestic animal breeding. However, the molecular mechanism by which the oviduct regulates litter size remains largely elusive in goats during the follicular phase. Accumulating data have linked lncRNAs to reproductive activities; however, little is known about the modulation mechanism in the oviduct. Herein, RNA-seq was used to measure mRNA and lncRNA expression levels in low- and high-fecundity goats. We observed distinctive differences in mRNA and lncRNA in terms of different kidding numbers and detected the differential expression of 1640 mRNA transcripts and 271 lncRNA transcripts. Enrichment analysis of differentially expressed mRNAs (DEGs) suggested that multiple pathways, such as the AMPK, PI3K–Akt, calcium signaling pathway, oocyte meiosis, ABC transporter, and ECM–receptor interaction pathways, directly or indirectly affected goat reproduction. Additionally, coexpression of differentially expressed lncRNAs (DEL)-genes analysis showed that XLOC_021615, XLOC_119780, and XLOC_076450 were trans-acting as the DEGs ATAD2, DEPDC5, and TRPM6, respectively, and could regulate embryo development. Moreover, XLOC_020079, XLOC_107361, XLOC_169844, XLOC_252348 were the trans-regulated elements of the DEGs ARHGEF2 and RAPGEF6, and the target DEGs CPEB3 of XLOC_089239, XLOC_090063, XLOC_107409, XLOC_153574, XLOC_211271, XLOC_251687 were associated with prolificacy. Collectively, our study has offered a thorough dissection of the oviduct lncRNA and mRNA landscapes in goats. These results could serve as potential targets of the oviduct affecting fertility in goats.
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17
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Yanagimachi R. Mysteries and unsolved problems of mammalian fertilization and related topics. Biol Reprod 2022; 106:644-675. [PMID: 35292804 PMCID: PMC9040664 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Revised: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Mammalian fertilization is a fascinating process that leads to the formation of a new individual. Eggs and sperm are complex cells that must meet at the appropriate time and position within the female reproductive tract for successful fertilization. I have been studying various aspects of mammalian fertilization over 60 years. In this review, I discuss many different aspects of mammalian fertilization, some of my laboratory's contribution to the field, and discuss enigmas and mysteries that remain to be solved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryuzo Yanagimachi
- Institute for Biogenesis Research, University of Hawaii Medical School, Honolulu, Hawaii, USA
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18
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Expression of dihydrotestosterone synthases and androgen receptor in sheep oviduct ampulla and its regulation by estradiol and progesterone. Reprod Biol 2022; 22:100573. [DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2021.100573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2021] [Revised: 10/03/2021] [Accepted: 10/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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19
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Structure and permeability of the egg capsule of the placental Australian sharpnose shark, Rhizoprionodon taylori. J Comp Physiol B 2022; 192:263-273. [PMID: 35118516 PMCID: PMC8894161 DOI: 10.1007/s00360-021-01427-0] [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: 05/06/2021] [Revised: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Shark placentae are derived from modifications to the fetal yolk sac and the maternal uterine mucosa. In almost all placental sharks, embryonic development occurs in an egg capsule that remains intact for the entire pregnancy, separating the fetal tissues from the maternal tissues at the placental interface. Here, we investigate the structure and permeability of the egg capsules that surround developing embryos of the placental Australian sharpnose shark (Rhizoprionodon taylori) during late pregnancy. The egg capsule is an acellular fibrous structure that is 0.42 ± 0.04 μm thick at the placental interface between the yolk sac and uterine tissues, and 0.67 ± 0.08 μm thick in the paraplacental regions. This is the thinnest egg capsule of any placental shark measured so far, which may increase the diffusion rate of respiratory gases, fetal wastes, water and nutrients between maternal and fetal tissues. Molecules smaller than or equal to ~ 1000 Da can diffuse through the egg capsule, but larger proteins (~ 3000–26,000 Da) cannot. Similar permeability characteristics between the egg capsule of R. taylori and other placental sharks suggest that molecular size is an important determinant of the molecules that can be exchanged between the mother and her embryos during pregnancy.
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20
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Zhu L, Zhou B, Zhu X, Cheng F, Pan Y, Zhou Y, Wu Y, Xu Q. Association Between Body Mass Index and Female Infertility in the United States: Data from National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2013–2018. Int J Gen Med 2022; 15:1821-1831. [PMID: 35221716 PMCID: PMC8865871 DOI: 10.2147/ijgm.s349874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose This study aimed to investigate the effects of body mass index (BMI) on infertility in women of childbearing age. Patients and Methods We performed a cross-sectional study using data from 3624 participants from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). We used BMI and fertility status in the survey as independent and dependent variables, respectively. We evaluated their relationship and used smoothed curve fitting and multivariate logistic regression analysis as well as a generalized additive model (GAM) to determine the effect of BMI. Results Logistic regression model analysis linked BMI and infertility after adjusting for potential confounders OR 1.03, 95%Cl: 1.02–1.05). There was a non-linear relationship between BMI and infertility, with each unit increase in BMI reducing the risk of infertility by 33% when BMI was <19.5 kg/m2. In contrast, when BMI ≥19.5 kg/m2, each unit increase in BMI predicted a 3% increase in the risk of infertility. Conclusion The relationship between infertility and BMI presented a U-shaped curve. Therefore, a BMI that lay at the extremes of the spectrum tended to predict infertility. We believe that this study will support the maintenance of suitable BMI levels in women preparing for pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Zhu
- Thyroid Surgery Department, The Fifth Hospital Affiliated to Wenzhou Medical University, Lishui Central Hospital, Lishui City, Zhejiang Province, People’s Republic of China
| | - Bin Zhou
- Thyroid Surgery Department, The Fifth Hospital Affiliated to Wenzhou Medical University, Lishui Central Hospital, Lishui City, Zhejiang Province, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xi Zhu
- Thyroid Surgery Department, The Fifth Hospital Affiliated to Wenzhou Medical University, Lishui Central Hospital, Lishui City, Zhejiang Province, People’s Republic of China
| | - Feng Cheng
- Thyroid Surgery Department, The Fifth Hospital Affiliated to Wenzhou Medical University, Lishui Central Hospital, Lishui City, Zhejiang Province, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ying Pan
- Breast Surgery Department, The Fifth Hospital Affiliated to Wenzhou Medical University, Lishui Central Hospital, Lishui City, Zhejiang Province, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yi Zhou
- Breast Surgery Department, The Fifth Hospital Affiliated to Wenzhou Medical University, Lishui Central Hospital, Lishui City, Zhejiang Province, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yong Wu
- Thyroid Surgery Department, The Fifth Hospital Affiliated to Wenzhou Medical University, Lishui Central Hospital, Lishui City, Zhejiang Province, People’s Republic of China
| | - Qingna Xu
- Health Care Office, The Fifth Hospital Affiliated to Wenzhou Medical University, Lishui Central Hospital, Lishui City, Zhejiang Province, People’s Republic of China
- Correspondence: Qingna Xu, Health Care Office, The Fifth Hospital Affiliated to Wenzhou Medical University, Lishui Central Hospital, No. 289, Kuocang Road, Lishui City, Zhejiang Province, People’s Republic of China, Tel +86 13735910709, Email
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21
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FURUKAWA E, KANNO C, YANAGAWA Y, KATAGIRI S, NAGANO M. Relationship between the timing of insemination based on estrus detected by the automatic activity monitoring system and conception rates using sex-sorted semen in Holstein dairy cattle. J Reprod Dev 2022; 68:295-298. [PMID: 35644540 PMCID: PMC9334320 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2022-006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
We investigated the optimal timing of artificial insemination (AI) for achieving pregnancy according to the onset/end of estrus detected by an accelerometer system in Holstein cattle. The conception rates of conventional semen were used as a reference. The conception rate from AI of sex-sorted semen was higher at −4 to 4 h (57.1%) from the end of estrus than those at −12 to −4 h (37.7%) and 12–20 h (30.3%), whereas AI at 4–12 h showed an intermediate conception rate (47.4%). Conversely, conception rates were similar in AI performed between 0 and 32 h from the onset of estrus. Regarding conventional semen, the interval from the onset and end of estrus did not affect conception rates. The present results suggest that the time of the end of estrus is the better indicator of optimal AI timing for sex-sorted semen than the onset of estrus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eri FURUKAWA
- Laboratory of Theriogenology, Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-0818, Japan
| | - Chihiro KANNO
- Laboratory of Clinical Veterinary Medicine for Large Animal, School of Veterinary Medicine, Kitasato University, Towada 034-8628, Japan
| | - Yojiro YANAGAWA
- Laboratory of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-0818, Japan
| | - Seiji KATAGIRI
- Laboratory of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-0818, Japan
| | - Masashi NAGANO
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Department of Animal Science, School of Veterinary Medicine, Kitasato University, Towada 034-8628, Japan
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22
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Atli MO, Hitit M, Özbek M, Köse M, Bozkaya F. Cell-Specific Expression Pattern of Toll-Like Receptors and Their Roles in Animal Reproduction. Handb Exp Pharmacol 2022; 276:65-93. [PMID: 35434748 DOI: 10.1007/164_2022_584] [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: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Toll-like receptors (TLRs), a part of the innate immune system, have critical roles in protection against infections and involve in basic pathology and physiology. Secreted molecules from the body or pathogens could be a ligand for induction of the TLR system. There are many immune and non-immune types of cells that express at a least single TLR on their surface or cytoplasm. Those cells may be a player in a defense system or in the physiological regulation mechanisms. Reproductive tract and organs contain different types of cells that have essential functions such as hormone production, providing an environment for embryo/fetus, germ cell production, etc. Although lower parts of reproductive organs are in a relationship with outsider contaminants (bacteria, viruses, etc.), upper parts should be sterile to provide a healthy pregnancy and germ cell production. In those areas, TLRs bear controller or regulator roles. In this chapter, we will provide current information about physiological functions of TLR in the cells of the reproductive organs and tract, and especially about their roles in follicle selection, maturation, follicular atresia, ovulation, corpus luteum (CL) formation and regression, establishment and maintenance of pregnancy, sperm production, maturation, capacitation as well as the relationship between TLR polymorphism and reproduction in domestic animals. We will also discuss pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs)-induced TLRs that involve in reproductive inflammation/pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehmet Osman Atli
- Department of Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Harran University, Şanlıurfa, Turkey.
| | - Mustafa Hitit
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kastamonu University, Kastamonu, Turkey
| | - Mehmet Özbek
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mehmet Akif Ersoy University, Burdur, Turkey
| | - Mehmet Köse
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Dicle University, Diyarbakır, Turkey
| | - Faruk Bozkaya
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Harran University, Sanlıurfa, Turkey
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23
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Brodowska A, Grabowska M, Bittel K, Ciećwież S, Brodowski J, Szczuko M, Szydłowska I, Piasecka M. Estrogen and Progesterone Receptor Immunoexpression in Fallopian Tubes among Postmenopausal Women Based on Time since the Last Menstrual Period. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18179195. [PMID: 34501783 PMCID: PMC8430669 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18179195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2021] [Revised: 08/27/2021] [Accepted: 08/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Existing data on the expression of estrogen receptor (ERα) and progesterone receptor (PR) in fallopian tubes in postmenopausal women are mostly inconclusive. Therefore, we assessed ERα and PR immunoexpression in the oviducts of these women. One hundred postmenopausal women were divided into three groups based on time elapsed since the last menstrual period: (A) 1–5 years, (B) 6–10 years, and (C) ≥11 years. In all groups, both in the glandular epithelium and stroma of the ampulla and isthmus of the oviduct, immunolocalization of ERα and PR were noted. The glandular epithelium of the ampulla showed a higher percentage of PR-positive cells than the isthmus in each group. Regarding ERα, there were no significant differences. In the glandular epithelium in both the ampulla and isthmus, the percentage of ERα- and PR-positive cells was significantly higher than that in the stroma in each study group and higher in the A group than in the C group. In conclusion, in postmenopausal women, time elapsed since the last menstrual period in the fallopian tubes was positively correlated with the following: (1) the epithelium showed vacuolation of cytoplasm with greater frequency, (2) the proportion of ciliated cells decreased, and (3) the percentage of ERα- and PR-positive cells also decreased. The obtained results indicate a significant decrease in ERα and PR expression depending on the time that has elapsed since the last menstruation, which is undoubtedly related to the loss of the reproductive function of the patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnieszka Brodowska
- Department of Gynecology, Endocrinology and Gynecological Oncology, Pomeranian Medical University, Unii Lubelskiej 1, 71-256 Szczecin, Poland; (A.B.); (K.B.); (S.C.); (I.S.)
| | - Marta Grabowska
- Department of Histology and Developmental Biology, Pomeranian Medical University, Żołnierska 48, 71-210 Szczecin, Poland;
| | - Katarzyna Bittel
- Department of Gynecology, Endocrinology and Gynecological Oncology, Pomeranian Medical University, Unii Lubelskiej 1, 71-256 Szczecin, Poland; (A.B.); (K.B.); (S.C.); (I.S.)
| | - Sylwester Ciećwież
- Department of Gynecology, Endocrinology and Gynecological Oncology, Pomeranian Medical University, Unii Lubelskiej 1, 71-256 Szczecin, Poland; (A.B.); (K.B.); (S.C.); (I.S.)
| | - Jacek Brodowski
- Department of Primary Healthcare, Pomeranian Medical University, Żołnierska 48, 71-210 Szczecin, Poland;
| | - Małgorzata Szczuko
- Department of Human Nutrition and Metabolomics, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Broniewskiego 24, 71-460 Szczecin, Poland;
| | - Iwona Szydłowska
- Department of Gynecology, Endocrinology and Gynecological Oncology, Pomeranian Medical University, Unii Lubelskiej 1, 71-256 Szczecin, Poland; (A.B.); (K.B.); (S.C.); (I.S.)
| | - Małgorzata Piasecka
- Department of Histology and Developmental Biology, Pomeranian Medical University, Żołnierska 48, 71-210 Szczecin, Poland;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +48-914800917
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24
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Fernández-Hernández P, Marinaro F, Sánchez-Calabuig MJ, García-Marín LJ, Bragado MJ, González-Fernández L, Macías-García B. The Proteome of Equine Oviductal Fluid Varies Before and After Ovulation: A Comparative Study. Front Vet Sci 2021; 8:694247. [PMID: 34422946 PMCID: PMC8375304 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.694247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Equine fertilization cannot be performed in the laboratory as equine spermatozoa do not cross the oocyte's zona pellucida in vitro. Hence, a more profound study of equine oviductal fluid (OF) composition at the pre-ovulatory and post-ovulatory stages could help in understanding what components are required to achieve fertilization in horses. Our work aimed to elucidate the proteomic composition of equine OF at both stages. To do this, OF was obtained postmortem from oviducts of slaughtered mares ipsilateral to a pre-ovulatory follicle (n = 4) or a recent ovulation (n = 4); the samples were kept at −80°C until analysis. After protein extraction and isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantification (iTRAQ) labeling, the samples were analyzed by nano-liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). The analysis of the spectra resulted in the identification of a total of 1,173 proteins present in pre-ovulatory and post-ovulatory samples; among these, 691 were unique for Equus caballus. Proteins from post-ovulatory oviductal fluid were compared with the proteins from pre-ovulatory oviductal fluid and were categorized as upregulated (positive log fold change) or downregulated (negative log fold change). Fifteen proteins were found to be downregulated in the post-ovulatory fluid and 156 were upregulated in the post-ovulatory OF compared to the pre-ovulatory fluid; among the upregulated proteins, 87 were included in the metabolism of proteins pathway. The identified proteins were related to sperm–oviduct interaction, fertilization, and metabolism, among others. Our data reveal consistent differences in the proteome of equine OF prior to and after ovulation, helping to increase our understanding in the factors that promote fertilization and early embryo development in horses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pablo Fernández-Hernández
- Research Group of Intracellular Signaling and Technology of Reproduction (Research Institute INBIO G+C), University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain.,Department of Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - Federica Marinaro
- Stem Cell Therapy Unit, Jesús Usón Minimally Invasive Surgery Centre, Cáceres, Spain
| | - María Jesús Sánchez-Calabuig
- Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University Complutense of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Luis Jesús García-Marín
- Research Group of Intracellular Signaling and Technology of Reproduction (Research Institute INBIO G+C), University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain.,Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - María Julia Bragado
- Research Group of Intracellular Signaling and Technology of Reproduction (Research Institute INBIO G+C), University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - Lauro González-Fernández
- Research Group of Intracellular Signaling and Technology of Reproduction (Research Institute INBIO G+C), University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - Beatriz Macías-García
- Research Group of Intracellular Signaling and Technology of Reproduction (Research Institute INBIO G+C), University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain.,Department of Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
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25
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Mahé C, Zlotkowska AM, Reynaud K, Tsikis G, Mermillod P, Druart X, Schoen J, Saint-Dizier M. Sperm migration, selection, survival, and fertilizing ability in the mammalian oviduct†. Biol Reprod 2021; 105:317-331. [PMID: 34057175 PMCID: PMC8335357 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioab105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Revised: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 05/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
In vitro fertilization (IVF) gives rise to embryos in a number of mammalian species and is currently widely used for assisted reproduction in humans and for genetic purposes in cattle. However, the rate of polyspermy is generally higher in vitro than in vivo and IVF remains ineffective in some domestic species like pigs and horses, highlighting the importance of the female reproductive tract for gamete quality and fertilization. In this review, the way the female environment modulates sperm selective migration, survival, and acquisition of fertilizing ability in the oviduct is being considered under six aspects: (1) the utero-tubal junction that selects a sperm sub-population entering the oviduct; (2) the presence of sperm binding sites on luminal epithelial cells in the oviduct, which prolong sperm viability and plays a role in limiting polyspermic fertilization; (3) the contractions of the oviduct, which promote sperm migration toward the site of fertilization in the ampulla; (4) the regions of the oviduct, which play different roles in regulating sperm physiology and interactions with oviduct epithelial cells; (5) the time of ovulation, and (6) the steroid hormonal environment which regulates sperm release from the luminal epithelial cells and facilitates capacitation in a finely orchestrated manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Coline Mahé
- CNRS, IFCE, INRAE, Université de Tours, PRC, Nouzilly, France
| | | | - Karine Reynaud
- CNRS, IFCE, INRAE, Université de Tours, PRC, Nouzilly, France
| | | | | | - Xavier Druart
- CNRS, IFCE, INRAE, Université de Tours, PRC, Nouzilly, France
| | - Jennifer Schoen
- Institute of Reproductive Biology, Leibniz Institute for Farm Animal Biology, FBN, Dummerstorf, Germany
| | - Marie Saint-Dizier
- CNRS, IFCE, INRAE, Université de Tours, PRC, Nouzilly, France
- Tours University, Faculty of Sciences and Techniques, Agrosciences Department, Tours, France
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26
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Maclean A, Bunni E, Makrydima S, Withington A, Kamal AM, Valentijn AJ, Hapangama DK. Fallopian tube epithelial cells express androgen receptor and have a distinct hormonal responsiveness when compared with endometrial epithelium. Hum Reprod 2021; 35:2097-2106. [PMID: 32876325 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deaa177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2020] [Revised: 06/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION How does steroid receptor expression, proliferative activity and hormone responsiveness of the fallopian tube (FT) epithelium compare to that of the endometrial epithelium? SUMMARY ANSWER Proliferative indices, hormone receptor expression-scores and in vitro response to oestrogen and androgens of the human FT demonstrate a distinct pattern from the matched endometrium. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY The FT epithelium exists as a continuum of the endometrium, and both express steroid hormone receptors. The ovarian steroid hormones regulate cyclical proliferation and regeneration of the endometrium, but their effects on steroid hormone receptor expression and proliferation in the FT have not yet been fully elucidated. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION We included women with proven fertility, undergoing hysterectomy and bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy for benign, gynaecological conditions at Liverpool Women's NHS Foundation Trust. They had no known endometrial or tubal pathology and were not on hormonal treatments for at least 3 months preceding sample collection in this prospective observational study (conducted between 2010 and 2018). A full-thickness sample of the endometrium and a sample from the FT were collected from each woman. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS The differential protein and mRNA levels of steroid hormone receptors, oestrogen receptors α and β, androgen receptor (AR) and progesterone receptor (PR), and the proliferative marker (Ki67) of the endometrium and the FT tissue samples from 47 healthy women undergoing surgery (37 premenopausal and 10 postmenopausal) were investigated using immunohistochemistry and quantitative real-time PCR. The comparative responsiveness to oestrogen and androgen of the endometrium and the fimbrial end of the FT was analysed using an in vitro short-term explant culture model. The endpoints assessed in the explants were the changes in mRNA and protein levels for AR, PR and the epithelial proliferative index after 24 h treatment with oestradiol (E2) or dihydrotestosterone (DHT). MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE The premenopausal endometrial functionalis glands (FG) displayed the well-known cyclic variation in cellular proliferation and steroid receptor scores. Compared with the endometrial FG, the matched FT epithelium (both fimbrial or isthmic ends) displayed a significantly lower proportion of cells expressing Ki67 (2.8% ± 2.2%, n = 18 vs 30.0% ± 26.3%, n = 16, P = 0.0018, respectively) accompanied with a significantly higher AR immunoscores (6.7 ± 2.7, n = 16 vs 0.3 ± 1.0, n = 10, P = 0.0136). The proportion of cells expressing Ki67 and the AR immunoscores of the FT epithelium correlated positively with endometrial luminal epithelium (r = 0.62, P = 0.005, and r = 0.68, P = 0.003, respectively). In vitro experiments suggested the tubal explants to be apparently less responsive to E2 yet more sensitive to DHT compared with the matched endometrium explants. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The short-term in vitro nature of the tissue explant cultures used in the study may not be representative of how different anatomical regions of the endometrium and FT behave in vivo. Our study included a high proportion of older premenopausal women with a regular menstrual cycle, which may therefore affect extrapolation of findings to a younger group. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Advancing our understanding of tubal and endometrial epithelial cell function has important implications for the diagnosis and treatment of diseases such as infertility, ectopic pregnancy, endometriosis and cancer. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) The work included in this article was funded by Wellbeing of Women project grants RG1073 and RG2137 (D.K.H.) and Wellbeing of Women Entry-Level Scholarship ELS706 (A.M). A.M. was also supported by an NIHR ACF fellowship grant. Further support received from Liverpool Women's Hospital NHS Trust (S.M.), University of Liverpool (E.B. and A.W.). All authors declare there are no conflicts of interest. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Maclean
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool L8 7SS, UK.,Liverpool Women's NHS Foundation Trust, Member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool L8 7SS, UK
| | - E Bunni
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool L8 7SS, UK.,Liverpool Women's NHS Foundation Trust, Member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool L8 7SS, UK
| | - S Makrydima
- Liverpool Women's NHS Foundation Trust, Member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool L8 7SS, UK
| | - A Withington
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool L8 7SS, UK
| | - A M Kamal
- Pathology Department, Oncology Teaching Hospital, Baghdad Medical City, Baghdad, Iraq
| | - A J Valentijn
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool L8 7SS, UK
| | - D K Hapangama
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool L8 7SS, UK.,Liverpool Women's NHS Foundation Trust, Member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool L8 7SS, UK
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27
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Palomino J, Flores J, Ramirez G, Parraguez VH, De los Reyes M. Expression Profiles of the Progesterone Receptor, Cyclooxygenase-2, Growth Differentiation Factor 9, and Bone Morphogenetic Protein 15 Transcripts in the Canine Oviducts during the Oestrous Cycle. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:454. [PMID: 33572466 PMCID: PMC7916196 DOI: 10.3390/ani11020454] [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: 12/30/2020] [Revised: 01/30/2021] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The gene expression in the canine oviduct, where oocyte maturation, fertilization, and early embryonic development occur, is still elusive. This study determined the oviductal expression of (PR), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), growth differentiation factor 9 (GDF-9), and bone morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP-15) during the canine oestrous cycle. Samples were collected from bitches at anoestrus (9), proestrus (7), oestrus (8), and dioestrus (11), after routine ovariohysterectomy and the ovarian surface structures and plasma progesterone concentration evaluated the physiological status of each donor. The oviductal cells were isolated and pooled. Total RNA was isolated, and gene expression was assessed by qPCR followed by analysis using the t-test and ANOVA. The PR mRNA increased (P < 0.05) from the anoestrus to dioestrus with the plasma progesterone concentration (r = 0.8). COX-2 mRNA expression was low in the anoestrus and proestrus, and negligible in the oestrus, while it was around 10-fold higher (P < 0.05) in the dioestrus. The GDF-9 mRNA was expressed during all phases of the oestrous cycle and was most abundant (P < 0.05) during oestrus phase. The BMP-15 mRNA decreased (P < 0.05) in the anoestrus and proestrus phases. Thus, the transcripts were differentially expressed in a stage-dependent manner, suggesting the importance of oestrous cycle regulation for successful reproduction in dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaime Palomino
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Chile, Santiago 8820000, Chile; (J.P.); (J.F.); (G.R.)
| | - Javiera Flores
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Chile, Santiago 8820000, Chile; (J.P.); (J.F.); (G.R.)
| | - Georges Ramirez
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Chile, Santiago 8820000, Chile; (J.P.); (J.F.); (G.R.)
| | - Victor H. Parraguez
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Chile, Santiago 8820000, Chile;
| | - Monica De los Reyes
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Chile, Santiago 8820000, Chile; (J.P.); (J.F.); (G.R.)
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28
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Gimeno-Martos S, Santorromán-Nuez M, Cebrián-Pérez JA, Muiño-Blanco T, Pérez-Pé R, Casao A. Involvement of progesterone and estrogen receptors in the ram sperm acrosome reaction. Domest Anim Endocrinol 2021; 74:106527. [PMID: 32799038 DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2020.106527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2020] [Revised: 07/01/2020] [Accepted: 07/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
The steroid hormones 17-β estradiol (E2) and progesterone (P4) can regulate capacitation, hyperactive motility, and the acrosome reaction (AR) during the sperm transit through the female tract. Moreover, exogenous P4 and E2 can induce the AR in ovine spermatozoa, and progesterone receptor (PR) and estrogen receptors (ERα and ERβ) are present in these cells. Thus, to investigate whether the effects both steroid hormones in ram sperm capacitation and AR are receptor-mediated, we incubated them with receptor agonists (tanaproget 1 μM and 5 μM for PR or resveratrol 5 μM and 10 μM for ER) or antagonists (mifepristone 4 μM and 40 μM for PR or tamoxifen 5 μM and 10 μM for ER) in capacitating conditions. The addition of receptor modulators did not affect sperm viability or total motility, although changes in progressive motility were detected. The incubation with both receptor agonists increased the percentage of acrosome-reacted spermatozoa, evaluated by chlortetracycline staining, when compared with the capacitated nontreated sample (Cap-C, P < 0.001). Moreover, the ER agonist resveratrol 10 μM provoked a greater AR than E2 (P < 0.01). Furthermore, the incubation with the receptor antagonists prevented the induction of the AR by P4 or E2, as the antagonists-treated spermatozoa presented a similar CTC pattern to that of Cap-C. In conclusion, these results confirm that P4 and E2 can induce the AR in ram spermatozoa and that this effect is receptor-mediated.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Gimeno-Martos
- Grupo BIOFITER, Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular y Celular, Facultad de Veterinaria, Instituto Universitario de Investigación en Ciencias Ambientales de Aragón (IUCA), Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - M Santorromán-Nuez
- Grupo BIOFITER, Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular y Celular, Facultad de Veterinaria, Instituto Universitario de Investigación en Ciencias Ambientales de Aragón (IUCA), Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - J A Cebrián-Pérez
- Grupo BIOFITER, Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular y Celular, Facultad de Veterinaria, Instituto Universitario de Investigación en Ciencias Ambientales de Aragón (IUCA), Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - T Muiño-Blanco
- Grupo BIOFITER, Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular y Celular, Facultad de Veterinaria, Instituto Universitario de Investigación en Ciencias Ambientales de Aragón (IUCA), Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - R Pérez-Pé
- Grupo BIOFITER, Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular y Celular, Facultad de Veterinaria, Instituto Universitario de Investigación en Ciencias Ambientales de Aragón (IUCA), Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - A Casao
- Grupo BIOFITER, Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular y Celular, Facultad de Veterinaria, Instituto Universitario de Investigación en Ciencias Ambientales de Aragón (IUCA), Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain.
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29
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Giojalas LC, Guidobaldi HA. Getting to and away from the egg, an interplay between several sperm transport mechanisms and a complex oviduct physiology. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2020; 518:110954. [PMID: 32738445 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2020.110954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2020] [Revised: 07/03/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
In mammals, the architecture and physiology of the oviduct are very complex, and one long-lasting intriguing question is how spermatozoa are transported from the sperm reservoir in the isthmus to the oocyte surface. In recent decades, several studies have improved knowledge of the factors affecting oviduct fluid movement and sperm transport. They report sperm-guiding mechanisms that move the spermatozoa towards (rheotaxis, thermotaxis, and chemotaxis) or away from the egg surface (chemorepulsion), but only a few provide evidence of their occurrence in vivo. This gives rise to several questions: how and when do the sperm transport mechanisms operate inside such an active oviduct? why are there so many sperm guidance processes? is one dominant over the others, or do they cooperate to optimise the success of fertilisation? Assuming that sperm guidance evolved alongside oviduct physiology, in this review we propose a theoretical model that integrates oviduct complexity in space and time with the sperm-orienting mechanisms. In addition, since all of the sperm-guidance processes recruit spermatozoa in a better physiological condition than those not selected, they could potentially be incorporated into assisted reproductive technology (ART) to improve fertility treatment and/or to develop innovative contraceptive methods. All these issues are discussed in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Cecilia Giojalas
- Centro de Biología Celular y Molecular (FCEFyN- UNC), and Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas y Tecnológicas (CONICET - UNC), Córdoba, Argentina.
| | - Héctor Alejandro Guidobaldi
- Centro de Biología Celular y Molecular (FCEFyN- UNC), and Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas y Tecnológicas (CONICET - UNC), Córdoba, Argentina
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30
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Sperm ion channels and transporters in male fertility and infertility. Nat Rev Urol 2020; 18:46-66. [PMID: 33214707 DOI: 10.1038/s41585-020-00390-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Mammalian sperm cells must respond to cues originating from along the female reproductive tract and from the layers of the egg in order to complete their fertilization journey. Dynamic regulation of ion signalling is, therefore, essential for sperm cells to adapt to their constantly changing environment. Over the past 15 years, direct electrophysiological recordings together with genetically modified mouse models and human genetics have confirmed the importance of ion channels, including the principal Ca2+-selective plasma membrane ion channel CatSper, for sperm activity. Sperm ion channels and membrane receptors are attractive targets for both the development of contraceptives and infertility treatment drugs. Furthermore, in this era of assisted reproductive technologies, understanding the signalling processes implicated in defective sperm function, particularly those arising from genetic abnormalities, is of the utmost importance not only for the development of infertility treatments but also to assess the overall health of a patient and his children. Future studies to improve reproductive health care and overall health care as a function of the ability to reproduce should include identification and analyses of gene variants that underlie human infertility and research into fertility-related molecules.
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31
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Lee MH, Lee J, Choi SH, Jie EY, Jeong JC, Kim CY, Kim SW. The Effect of Sodium Butyrate on Adventitious Shoot Formation Varies among the Plant Species and the Explant Types. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E8451. [PMID: 33182800 PMCID: PMC7696800 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21228451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2020] [Revised: 11/06/2020] [Accepted: 11/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Histone acetylation plays an important role in plant growth and development. Here, we investigated the effect of sodium butyrate (NaB), a histone deacetylase inhibitor, on adventitious shoot formation from protoplast-derived calli and cotyledon explants of tobacco (Nicotiana benthamiana) and tomato (Solanum lycopersicum). The frequency of adventitious shoot formation from protoplast-derived calli was higher in shoot induction medium (SIM) containing NaB than in the control. However, the frequency of adventitious shoot formation from cotyledon explants of tobacco under the 0.1 mM NaB treatment was similar to that in the control, but it decreased with increasing NaB concentration. Unlike in tobacco, NaB decreased adventitious shoot formation in tomato explants in a concentration-dependent manner, but it did not have any effect on adventitious shoot formation in calli. NaB inhibited or delayed the expression of D-type cyclin (CYCD3-1) and shoot-regeneration regulatory gene WUSCHEL (WUS) in cotyledon explants of tobacco and tomato. However, compared to that in control SIM, the expression of WUS was promoted more rapidly in tobacco calli cultured in NaB-containing SIM, but the expression of CYCD3-1 was inhibited. In conclusion, the effect of NaB on adventitious shoot formation and expression of CYCD3-1 and WUS genes depended on the plant species and whether the effects were tested on explants or protoplast-derived calli.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Suk Weon Kim
- Biological Resource Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Jeongeup 56212, Korea; (M.H.L.); (J.L.); (S.H.C.); (E.Y.J.); (J.C.J.); (C.Y.K.)
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32
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Harris EA, Stephens KK, Winuthayanon W. Extracellular Vesicles and the Oviduct Function. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21218280. [PMID: 33167378 PMCID: PMC7663821 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21218280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
In mammals, the oviduct (or the Fallopian tube in humans) can be divided into the infundibulum (responsible for oocyte pick-up), ampulla (site of fertilization), isthmus (where preimplantation embryos develop), and uterotubal junction (where embryos transit to the uterus). The oviductal fluid, as well as extracellular vesicles produced from the oviduct epithelial cells, referred to as oEVs, have been shown to improve the fertilization process, prevent polyspermy, and aid in embryo development. oEVs contain molecular cargos (such as miRNAs, mRNAs, proteins, and lipids) that can be delivered and fuse to recipient cells. oEVs produced from the ampulla appear to be functionally distinct from those produced from the isthmus. In multiple species including mice, cats, dogs, pigs, and cows, oEVs can be incorporated into the oocytes, sperm, and embryos. In this review, we show the positive impact of oEVs on gamete function as well as blastocyst development and how they may improve embryo quality in in vitro conditions in an assisted reproductive technology setting for rodents, domestic animals, farm animals, and humans.
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33
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García-Martínez S, Gadea J, Coy P, Romar R. Addition of exogenous proteins detected in oviductal secretions to in vitro culture medium does not improve the efficiency of in vitro fertilization in pigs. Theriogenology 2020; 157:490-497. [PMID: 32898824 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.08.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2020] [Revised: 08/07/2020] [Accepted: 08/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
This work was designed to study whether HSP70-1A, HSP90α, ezrin or PDI4, proteins previously identified in porcine oviductal secretions, have a role in zona pellucida (ZP) resistance to enzymatic digestion, in vitro fertilization (IVF) and sperm viability. In vitro matured porcine cumulus oocyte complexes were denuded and i) incubated for 1 h in TALP medium supplemented or not with each exogenous oviductal protein and in presence or absence of heparin to assess ZP digestion time by pronase; and ii) inseminated with fresh ejaculated boar spermatozoa in medium supplemented or not with each exogenous oviductal protein to assess their effect on fertilization results. Finally, spermatozoa were incubated in Tyrode's medium (0, 1 and 20 h) supplemented or not with HSP-701A, HSP-90α or ezrin, to assess simultaneously sperm viability and acrosome status by means of flow cytometry. Although all proteins increased the ZP digestion time, this increase was lower than 1 min, being ezrin the protein with a stronger effect. Presence of heparin in the medium reinforced the ZP hardening effect of ezrin and HSP-701A up to one more min, but not HSP-90α nor PDI4. Sperm penetration, but not IVF efficiency, increased when gametes were cocultured in medium containing PDIA4 whereas sperm penetration and polyspermy rates decreased in presence of ezrin and HSP proteins. This reduction was not the result of a detrimental effect of proteins on sperm viability or acrosome reaction. In conclusion, addition of exogenous proteins detected in oviductal secretions to artificial media does not reproduce the effect of adding such secretions nor improve the final efficiency of the porcine IVF system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soledad García-Martínez
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary, University of Murcia, Campus Mare Nostrum and IMIB-Arrixaca, Murcia, Spain
| | - Joaquín Gadea
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary, University of Murcia, Campus Mare Nostrum and IMIB-Arrixaca, Murcia, Spain
| | - Pilar Coy
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary, University of Murcia, Campus Mare Nostrum and IMIB-Arrixaca, Murcia, Spain
| | - Raquel Romar
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary, University of Murcia, Campus Mare Nostrum and IMIB-Arrixaca, Murcia, Spain.
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Marey MA, Aboul Ezz M, Akthar I, Yousef MS, Imakawa K, Shimada M, Miyamoto A. Sensing sperm via maternal immune system: a potential mechanism for controlling microenvironment for fertility in the cow. J Anim Sci 2020; 98:S88-S95. [PMID: 32810249 DOI: 10.1093/jas/skaa147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2019] [Accepted: 04/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Ali Marey
- Graduate School of Animal and Food Hygiene, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Japan.,Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Damanhur University, Behera, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Aboul Ezz
- Graduate School of Animal and Food Hygiene, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Japan.,Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Ihshan Akthar
- Graduate School of Animal and Food Hygiene, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Japan
| | - Mohamed Samy Yousef
- Graduate School of Animal and Food Hygiene, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Japan.,Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Kazuhiko Imakawa
- Research Institute of Agriculture, Tokai University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Masayuki Shimada
- Graduate School of Biosphere Science, Hiroshima University, Higashi-Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Akio Miyamoto
- Graduate School of Animal and Food Hygiene, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Japan
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Banliat C, Le Bourhis D, Bernardi O, Tomas D, Labas V, Salvetti P, Guyonnet B, Mermillod P, Saint-Dizier M. Oviduct Fluid Extracellular Vesicles Change the Phospholipid Composition of Bovine Embryos Developed In Vitro. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21155326. [PMID: 32727074 PMCID: PMC7432015 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21155326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2020] [Revised: 07/20/2020] [Accepted: 07/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Oviduct fluid extracellular vesicles (oEVs) have been proposed as bringing key molecules to the early developing embryo. In order to evaluate the changes induced by oEVs on embryo phospholipids, fresh bovine blastocysts developed in vitro in the presence or absence of oEVs were analyzed by intact cell MALDI-TOF (Matrix assisted laser desorption ionization—Time of flight) mass spectrometry (ICM-MS). The development rates, cryotolerance, and total cell number of blastocysts were also evaluated. The exposure to oEVs did not affect blastocyst yield or cryotolerance but modified the phospholipid content of blastocysts with specific changes before and after blastocoel expansion. The annotation of differential peaks due to oEV exposure evidenced a shift of embryo phospholipids toward more abundant phosphatidylcholines (PC), phosphatidylethanolamines (PE), and sphingomyelins (SM) with long-chain fatty acids. The lipidomic profiling of oEVs showed that 100% and 33% of the overabundant masses in blastocysts and expanded blastocysts, respectively, were also present in oEVs. In conclusion, this study provides the first analysis of the embryo lipidome regulated by oEVs. Exposure to oEVs induced significant changes in the phospholipid composition of resulting embryos, probably mediated by the incorporation of oEV-phospholipids into embryo membranes and by the modulation of the embryonic lipid metabolism by oEV molecular cargos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles Banliat
- INRAE, CNRS, University of Tours, IFCE, UMR 85 PRC, F-37380 Nouzilly, France; (C.B.); (O.B.); (D.T.); (V.L.); (P.M.)
- Union Evolution, F-35530 Noyal-Sur-Vilaine, France;
| | | | - Ophélie Bernardi
- INRAE, CNRS, University of Tours, IFCE, UMR 85 PRC, F-37380 Nouzilly, France; (C.B.); (O.B.); (D.T.); (V.L.); (P.M.)
| | - Daniel Tomas
- INRAE, CNRS, University of Tours, IFCE, UMR 85 PRC, F-37380 Nouzilly, France; (C.B.); (O.B.); (D.T.); (V.L.); (P.M.)
- INRAE, Université de Tours, CHU de Tours, Plate-forme CIRE, F-37380 Nouzilly, France
| | - Valérie Labas
- INRAE, CNRS, University of Tours, IFCE, UMR 85 PRC, F-37380 Nouzilly, France; (C.B.); (O.B.); (D.T.); (V.L.); (P.M.)
- INRAE, Université de Tours, CHU de Tours, Plate-forme CIRE, F-37380 Nouzilly, France
| | | | | | - Pascal Mermillod
- INRAE, CNRS, University of Tours, IFCE, UMR 85 PRC, F-37380 Nouzilly, France; (C.B.); (O.B.); (D.T.); (V.L.); (P.M.)
| | - Marie Saint-Dizier
- INRAE, CNRS, University of Tours, IFCE, UMR 85 PRC, F-37380 Nouzilly, France; (C.B.); (O.B.); (D.T.); (V.L.); (P.M.)
- Department Agrosciences, Faculty of Sciences and Techniques, University of Tours, F-37200 Tours, France
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +33-2-47-42-75-08
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Almiñana C, Bauersachs S. Extracellular vesicles: Multi-signal messengers in the gametes/embryo-oviduct cross-talk. Theriogenology 2020; 150:59-69. [PMID: 32088033 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.01.077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2020] [Accepted: 01/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have emerged as novel cell-to-cell communication mediators in physiological and pathological scenarios. Their ability to transfer their molecular cargo (RNAs, proteins and lipids) from one cell to another, in the vicinity or far from the cell of origin, together with their capacity of exerting a functional impact on the target cell make them valuable diagnostic tools as well as therapeutic vectors in a variety of diseases. In the reproductive field, there is a growing interest in the role of EVs in gamete/embryo-maternal communication and their potential implications in the reproductive success. In this review, we provide current knowledge of EVs secreted by the oviduct (oEVs) and embryos (eEVs), since both have been proposed as key players in the crucial two-way dialogue between the oviduct (lining epithelium and secretions) and the embryo that ensures successful pregnancy. Both oEVs and eEVs molecular cargos and their potential role as multi-signal messengers in the gametes/embryo-oviduct cross-talk and in the embryo-to-embryo communication in different species are also addressed. Eventually, a comparative analysis between oEVs and eEVs has been performed to shed some light on common and specific cargos responsible for their functions supporting the early reproductive events and as prime candidate molecules for improving fertility and assisted reproductive technologies outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen Almiñana
- University of Zurich, Genetics and Functional Genomics Group, Clinic of Reproductive Medicine, VetSuisse Faculty, Zurich, Switzerland; UMR85 PRC, INRA, CNRS 7247, Université de Tours, IFCE, 37380, Nouzilly, France.
| | - Stefan Bauersachs
- University of Zurich, Genetics and Functional Genomics Group, Clinic of Reproductive Medicine, VetSuisse Faculty, Zurich, Switzerland.
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de Ávila ACFCM, Andrade GM, Bridi A, Gimenes LU, Meirelles FV, Perecin F, da Silveira JC. Extracellular vesicles and its advances in female reproduction. Anim Reprod 2020; 16:31-38. [PMID: 33299476 PMCID: PMC7721021 DOI: 10.21451/1984-3143-ar2018-00101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Intercellular communication is an essential mechanism for development and maintenance of multicellular organisms. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) were recently described as new players in the intercellular communication. EVs are double-membrane vesicles secreted by cells and are classified according to their biosynthesis, protein markers and morphology. These extracellular vesicles contain bioactive materials such as miRNA, mRNA, protein and lipids. These characteristics permit their involvement in different biological processes. Reproductive physiology is complex and involves constant communication between cells. Different laboratories have described the presence of EVs secreted by ovarian follicular cells, oviductal cells, in vitro produced embryos and by the endometrium, suggesting that EVs are involved in the development of gametes and embryos, in animals and humans. Therefore, is important to understand physiological mechanisms and contributions of EVs in female reproduction in order to develop new tools to improve in vivo reproductive events and assisted reproductive techniques (ARTs). This review will provide the current knowledge related to EVs in female reproductive tissues and their role in ARTs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Gabriella Mamede Andrade
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, SP, Brazil
| | - Alessandra Bridi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, SP, Brazil
| | - Lindsay Unno Gimenes
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine and Animal Reproduction, School of Agricultural and Veterinarian Sciences, São Paulo State University (Unesp), Jaboticabal, SP, Brazil
| | - Flávio Vieira Meirelles
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, SP, Brazil
| | - Felipe Perecin
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, SP, Brazil
| | - Juliano Coelho da Silveira
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, SP, Brazil
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Ramal-Sanchez M, Bernabo N, Tsikis G, Blache MC, Labas V, Druart X, Mermillod P, Saint-Dizier M. Progesterone induces sperm release from oviductal epithelial cells by modifying sperm proteomics, lipidomics and membrane fluidity. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2020; 504:110723. [PMID: 31972329 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2020.110723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2019] [Revised: 01/16/2020] [Accepted: 01/17/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The sperm reservoir is formed after insemination in mammals, allowing sperm storage in the oviduct until their release. We previously showed that physiological concentrations of progesterone (P4) trigger in vitro the sperm release from bovine oviductal epithelial cells (BOECs), selecting a subpopulation of spermatozoa with a higher fertilizing competence. Here, by using Western-Blot, confocal microscopy and Intact Cell MALDI-TOF-Mass Spectrometry strategies, we elucidated the changes derived by the P4-induced release on sperm cells (BOEC-P4 spz). Our findings show that, compared to controls, BOEC-P4 spz presented a decrease in the abundance of Binder of Sperm Proteins (BSP) -3 and -5, suggesting one mechanism by which spermatozoa may detach from BOECs, and thus triggering the membrane remodeling with an increase of the sperm membrane fluidity. Furthermore, an interesting number of membrane lipids and proteins were differentially abundant in BOEC-P4 spz compared with controls.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Ramal-Sanchez
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PR China) UMR85, INRA, CNRS, 7247, IFCE, Nouzilly, France; Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, Università degli Studi di Teramo, Italy.
| | - Nicola Bernabo
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, Università degli Studi di Teramo, Italy
| | - Guillaume Tsikis
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PR China) UMR85, INRA, CNRS, 7247, IFCE, Nouzilly, France
| | - Marie-Claire Blache
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PR China) UMR85, INRA, CNRS, 7247, IFCE, Nouzilly, France
| | - Valerie Labas
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PR China) UMR85, INRA, CNRS, 7247, IFCE, Nouzilly, France; Plate-forme de Chirurgie et d'Imagerie pour la Recherche et l'Enseignement (CIRE), Pôle d'Analyse et d'Imagerie des Biomolécules (PAIB), INRA, CHRU de Tours, Université de Tours, Nouzilly, France
| | - Xavier Druart
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PR China) UMR85, INRA, CNRS, 7247, IFCE, Nouzilly, France
| | - Pascal Mermillod
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PR China) UMR85, INRA, CNRS, 7247, IFCE, Nouzilly, France
| | - Marie Saint-Dizier
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PR China) UMR85, INRA, CNRS, 7247, IFCE, Nouzilly, France; Université de Tours, Faculté des Sciences et des Techniques, Tours, France
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Talukder AK, Marey MA, Shirasuna K, Kusama K, Shimada M, Imakawa K, Miyamoto A. Roadmap to pregnancy in the first 7 days post-insemination in the cow: Immune crosstalk in the corpus luteum, oviduct, and uterus. Theriogenology 2020; 150:313-320. [PMID: 32088048 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.01.071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2020] [Accepted: 01/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The first 7 days post-insemination are critical for establishment of pregnancy. The pre-ovulatory luteinizing hormone (LH) surge induces ovulation through disruption of the follicle structure that elucidates pro-inflammatory (Th1) responses. Various types of immune cells are recruited into the corpus luteum (CL) to regulate luteal angiogenesis and progesterone (P4) secretion into the circulation to establish pregnancy. The active sperm-uterine crosstalk also induces Th1 responses, mainly via Toll-like receptor (TLR) 2/4 signaling pathway in vitro. The endometrial glands serve as sensors for sperm signals, which trigger Th1 responses. Conversely, the sperm-oviduct binding generates anti-inflammatory (Th2) responses to support sperm survival until fertilization. It is well-established that embryo-maternal crosstalk starts after the embryo hatches out from the zona pellucida (ZP). However most recently, it was shown that the 16-cell stage bovine embryo starts to secrete interferon-tau (IFNT) that induces Th2 immune responses in the oviduct. Once developing embryos descend into the uterine horn, they induce Th2 responses with interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs) expression in the uterine epithelium and local immune cells mainly via IFNT release. Likewise, multiple embryos in the uterus of superovulated donor cows on D7 post-insemination induce Th2 immune responses with ISGs expressions in circulating immune cells. These findings strongly suggest that the maternal immune system reacts to the embryo during the first 7 days post-insemination to induce fetal tolerance. It became evident that the innate immunity of the developing CL, oviduct, and uterus works together to provide optimal conditions for fertilization and early embryonic development during the first 7 days post-insemination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anup K Talukder
- Graduate School of Animal and Food Hygiene, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, 080-8555, Japan; Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Reproductive Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Agricultural University, Gazipur, 1706, Bangladesh
| | - Mohamed A Marey
- Graduate School of Animal and Food Hygiene, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, 080-8555, Japan; Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Damanhur University, Behera, Egypt
| | - Koumei Shirasuna
- Department of Animal Science, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Atsugi, Kanagawa, 243-0034, Japan
| | - Kazuya Kusama
- Department of Endocrine Pharmacology, Tokyo University of Pharmacy and Life Sciences, Tokyo, 192-0392, Japan
| | - Masayuki Shimada
- Graduate School of Biosphere Science, Hiroshima University, Higashi-Hiroshima, 739-8528, Japan
| | - Kazuhiko Imakawa
- Research Institute of Agriculture, Tokai University, Kumamoto, 862-8652, Japan
| | - Akio Miyamoto
- Graduate School of Animal and Food Hygiene, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, 080-8555, Japan.
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Composing the Early Embryonic Microenvironment: Physiology and Regulation of Oviductal Secretions. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 21:ijms21010223. [PMID: 31905654 PMCID: PMC6982147 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21010223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2019] [Revised: 12/19/2019] [Accepted: 12/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The oviductal fluid is the first environment experienced by mammalian embryos at the very beginning of life. However, it has long been believed that the oviductal environment was not essential for proper embryonic development. Successful establishment of in vitro embryo production techniques (which completely bypass the oviduct) have reinforced this idea. Yet, it became evident that in vitro produced embryos differ markedly from their in vivo counterparts, and these differences are associated with lower pregnancy outcomes and more health issues after birth. Nowadays, researchers consider the oviduct as the most suitable microenvironment for early embryonic development and a substantial effort is made to understand its dynamic, species-specific functions. In this review, we touch on the origin and molecular components of the oviductal fluid in mammals, where recent progress has been made thanks to the wider use of mass spectrometry techniques. Some of the factors and processes known to regulate oviductal secretions, including the embryo itself, as well as ovulation, insemination, endogenous and exogenous hormones, and metabolic and heat stress, are summarized. Special emphasis is laid on farm animals because, owing to the availability of sample material and the economic importance of fertility in livestock husbandry, a large part of the work on this topic has been carried out in domestic animals used for dairy and/or meat production.
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Gatien J, Mermillod P, Tsikis G, Bernardi O, Janati Idrissi S, Uzbekov R, Le Bourhis D, Salvetti P, Almiñana C, Saint-Dizier M. Metabolomic Profile of Oviductal Extracellular Vesicles across the Estrous Cycle in Cattle. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20246339. [PMID: 31888194 PMCID: PMC6941065 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20246339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2019] [Revised: 12/13/2019] [Accepted: 12/15/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Oviductal extracellular vesicles (oEVs) have been proposed as key modulators of gamete/embryo maternal interactions. The aim of this study was to examine the metabolite content of oEVs and its regulation across the estrous cycle in cattle. Oviductal EVs were isolated from bovine oviducts ipsilateral and contralateral to ovulation at four stages of the estrous cycle (post-ovulatory stage, early and late luteal phases, and pre-ovulatory stage). The metabolomic profiling of EVs was performed by proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR). NMR identified 22 metabolites in oEVs, among which 15 were quantified. Lactate, myoinositol, and glycine were the most abundant metabolites throughout the estrous cycle. The side relative to ovulation had no effect on the oEVs' metabolite concentrations. However, levels of glucose-1-phosphate and maltose were greatly affected by the cycle stage, showing up to 100-fold higher levels at the luteal phase than at the peri-ovulatory phases. In contrast, levels of methionine were significantly higher at peri-ovulatory phases than at the late-luteal phase. Quantitative enrichment analyses of oEV-metabolites across the cycle evidenced several significantly regulated metabolic pathways related to sucrose, glucose, and lactose metabolism. This study provides the first metabolomic characterization of oEVs, increasing our understanding of the potential role of oEVs in promoting fertilization and early embryo development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Gatien
- Allice, 37380 Nouzilly, France; (J.G.); (S.J.I.); (D.L.B.); (P.S.)
| | - Pascal Mermillod
- Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique (INRA), CNRS 7247, University of Tours, IFCE, UMR85 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, 37380 Nouzilly, France; (P.M.); (G.T.); (O.B.); (C.A.)
| | - Guillaume Tsikis
- Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique (INRA), CNRS 7247, University of Tours, IFCE, UMR85 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, 37380 Nouzilly, France; (P.M.); (G.T.); (O.B.); (C.A.)
| | - Ophélie Bernardi
- Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique (INRA), CNRS 7247, University of Tours, IFCE, UMR85 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, 37380 Nouzilly, France; (P.M.); (G.T.); (O.B.); (C.A.)
| | | | - Rustem Uzbekov
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Tours, 37000 Tours, France;
- Faculty of Bioengineering and Bioinformatics, Moscow State University, 119991 Moscow, Russia
| | | | - Pascal Salvetti
- Allice, 37380 Nouzilly, France; (J.G.); (S.J.I.); (D.L.B.); (P.S.)
| | - Carmen Almiñana
- Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique (INRA), CNRS 7247, University of Tours, IFCE, UMR85 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, 37380 Nouzilly, France; (P.M.); (G.T.); (O.B.); (C.A.)
- VetSuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Marie Saint-Dizier
- Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique (INRA), CNRS 7247, University of Tours, IFCE, UMR85 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, 37380 Nouzilly, France; (P.M.); (G.T.); (O.B.); (C.A.)
- Faculty of Sciences and Techniques, University of Tours, 37200 Tours, France
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +33-247-427-508
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González-Fernández L, Sánchez-Calabuig MJ, Calle-Guisado V, García-Marín LJ, Bragado MJ, Fernández-Hernández P, Gutiérrez-Adán A, Macías-García B. Stage-specific metabolomic changes in equine oviductal fluid: New insights into the equine fertilization environment. Theriogenology 2019; 143:35-43. [PMID: 31835098 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2019.11.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2019] [Revised: 11/06/2019] [Accepted: 11/29/2019] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
A repeatable protocol for equine in vitro fertilization (IVF) has remained elusive. This is likely, in part, due to suboptimal composition of capacitation or IVF media that are currently in use. Hence, we aimed to analyse the metabolome of equine oviductal fluid (OF) at the pre- (PRE) and immediate post-ovulatory (PST) stages using proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H NMR). Oviductal fluid from eight PRE and six PST mares were used to prepare a total of five samples per group. A total of 18 metabolites were identified. The five metabolites with the highest concentrations in the OF samples were lactate, myoinositol, creatine, alanine and carnitine. Only fumarate and glycine showed significant differences in their concentrations between PRE and PST OF samples, with higher concentrations in the PST samples. In a preliminary study, stallion spermatozoa (n = 3 ejaculates) were incubated with different concentrations of PST OF from one mare (0, 0.0625, 0.125, 0.25, 0.5 or 1%; v:v). After 4 h of sperm incubation, protein tyrosine phosphorylation (PY) by western blotting, sperm motility, and acrosomal status were evaluated. An increase of PY was observed in sperm from two stallions when treated with 0.0625% and 0.125% of OF; however no change in PY was noted in the other stallion. There were no effects of OF on spermatozoa motility or acrosome status. These results provide the first information on the metabolomics of equine OF at different stages of the estrus cycle, and present the possibility that OF may affect PY in stallion spermatozoa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauro González-Fernández
- Research Group of Intracellular Signalling and Technology of Reproduction (SINTREP), Research Institute of Biotechnology in Livestock and Cynegetic (INBIO G+C), University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - María Jesús Sánchez-Calabuig
- Department of Animal Reproduction, INIA, Madrid, Spain; Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University Complutense of Madrid, Spain
| | - Violeta Calle-Guisado
- Research Group of Intracellular Signalling and Technology of Reproduction (SINTREP), Research Institute of Biotechnology in Livestock and Cynegetic (INBIO G+C), University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - Luis Jesús García-Marín
- Research Group of Intracellular Signalling and Technology of Reproduction (SINTREP), Research Institute of Biotechnology in Livestock and Cynegetic (INBIO G+C), University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain; Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - María Julia Bragado
- Research Group of Intracellular Signalling and Technology of Reproduction (SINTREP), Research Institute of Biotechnology in Livestock and Cynegetic (INBIO G+C), University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - Pablo Fernández-Hernández
- Department of Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | | | - Beatriz Macías-García
- Research Group of Intracellular Signalling and Technology of Reproduction (SINTREP), Research Institute of Biotechnology in Livestock and Cynegetic (INBIO G+C), University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain; Department of Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain.
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43
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Ito S, Yamamoto Y, Kimura K. Analysis of ciliogenesis process in the bovine oviduct based on immunohistochemical classification. Mol Biol Rep 2019; 47:1003-1012. [PMID: 31741261 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-019-05192-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2019] [Accepted: 11/12/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The oviductal epithelium is composed of ciliated and non-ciliated cells. The proportions of these cells change during the estrous cycle. However, the mechanism underlying this cyclic change in the cell proportions remains unclear. Our previous study indicated that ciliated cells are derived from non-ciliated cells. Here, we aimed to investigate the mechanism regulating the changes in the populations of ciliated and non-ciliated cells during the estrous cycle. To this end, we examined the numbers of cells that were positive for acetylated-α-tubulin (cilia marker), Ki67 (proliferation marker), PAX8 (non-ciliated cell marker), and FOXJ1 and MYB (ciliogenesis markers) in the epithelial cells at four different estrous stages (Stage I: days 1-4 after ovulation, Stage II: days 5-10, Stage III: days 11-17, and Stage IV: days 18-20) by immunohistochemistry. The oviductal epithelial cells expressed either FOXJ1 or PAX8. All the acetylated-α-tubulin+ cells were positive for FOXJ1, although there were a few acetylated-α-tubulin-/FOXJ1+ cells. MYB was expressed in both the FOXJ1+ and PAX8+ cells, but it was not expressed in the Ki67+ cells. The numbers of Ki67+ and MYB+ cells were the highest in Stage IV, while the numbers of FOXJ1+ and acetylated-α-tubulin+ cells were the highest in the following Stage I, suggesting that ciliogenesis is associated with the estrous cycle. Thus, based on immunological classification, the oviductal epithelium contains at least seven types of cells at different translational/transcriptional states, and their number is regulated by the estrous cycle. This cyclic event might provide an optimal environment for gamete transport, fertilization, and embryonic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sayaka Ito
- Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology, Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University, 1-1-1, Tsushimanaka, Kita-Ku, Okayama, 700-8530, Japan.,Japan Society for the Promotion of Science, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuki Yamamoto
- Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology, Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University, 1-1-1, Tsushimanaka, Kita-Ku, Okayama, 700-8530, Japan
| | - Koji Kimura
- Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology, Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University, 1-1-1, Tsushimanaka, Kita-Ku, Okayama, 700-8530, Japan.
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44
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Marey MA, Matsukawa H, Sasaki M, Ezz MA, Yousef MS, Takahashi KI, Miyamoto A. Bovine oviduct epithelial cells suppress the phagocytic activity of neutrophils towards sperm but not for bacteria in vitro: Immunofluorescence and electron microscopic observations. Histol Histopathol 2019; 35:589-597. [PMID: 31621887 DOI: 10.14670/hh-18-172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Previously, we reported that polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMNs) are constantly existent in the bovine oviduct fluid during the pre-ovulatory stage under physiological conditions. Moreover, incubation of PMNs with bovine oviduct epithelial cells-conditioned medium (BOEC-CM) resulted in suppression of their phagocytic activity for sperm. During pathophysiological conditions, cows may be inseminated by infected semen which exposes oviductal PMNs to allogenic sperm simultaneously with pathogens. This study aimed to visually investigate the role of oviduct epithelium in regulating the phagocytic behavior of PMNs toward sperm as a physiological stimulus, with Escherichia coli (E. coli) as a pathological stimulus. In our experiment, PMNs were incubated for 2 h in BOEC-CM. Phagocytosis was then assayed by co-incubation of these PMNs either with sperm, E. coli, or latex beads. BOEC-CM significantly suppressed the direct phagocytosis of PMNs for sperm, but did not affect their phagocytic activity for E. coli or latex beads. Additionally, an investigation with scanning electron microscopy revealed that BOEC-CM suppressed the formation of DNA-based neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) for sperm entanglement. BOEC-CM did not alter NETs formation towards E. coli. A quantification of NETs formation using an immunofluorescence microscopy showed that the areas of NETs formation for E. coli were significantly larger than those formed for sperm. Our data clearly show that the bovine oviduct, through secretions, protects sperm from phagocytosis by PMNs and eliminates bacterial dissemination through maintaining the phagocytic activity of PMNs towards bacteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Ali Marey
- Graduate School of Animal and Food Hygiene, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Japan.,Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Damanhur University, Behera, Egypt
| | - Haruhisa Matsukawa
- Graduate School of Animal and Food Hygiene, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Japan
| | - Motoki Sasaki
- Department of Basic Veterinary Science, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Japan
| | - Mohamed Aboul Ezz
- Graduate School of Animal and Food Hygiene, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Japan.,Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Samy Yousef
- Graduate School of Animal and Food Hygiene, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Japan.,Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | | | - Akio Miyamoto
- Graduate School of Animal and Food Hygiene, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Japan.
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45
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Kerr B, Ríos M, Droguett K, Villalón M. Nitric oxide activation by progesterone suppresses ATP-induced ciliary activity in oviductal ciliated cells. Reprod Fertil Dev 2019; 30:1666-1674. [PMID: 29936934 DOI: 10.1071/rd17450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2017] [Accepted: 05/07/2018] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Ciliary beat frequency (CBF) regulates the oviductal transport of oocytes and embryos, which are important components of the reproductive process. Local release of ATP transiently increases CBF by increasing [Ca2+]i. Ovarian hormones also regulate ciliary activity and oviductal transport. Progesterone (P4) induces nitric oxide (NO) production and high P4 concentrations induce ciliary dysfunction. However, the mechanism by which P4 affects CBF has not been elucidated. To evaluate the role of P4 in NO production and its effect on ATP-induced increases in CBF, we measured CBF, NO concentrations and [Ca2+]i in cultures of oviductal ciliated cells treated with P4 or NO signalling-related molecules. ATP induced a [Ca2+]i peak, followed by an increase in NO concentrations that were temporally correlated with the decreased phase of the transiently increased CBF. Furthermore, P4 increased the expression of nitric oxide synthases (iNOS and nNOS) and reduced the ATP-induced increase in CBF via a mechanism that involves the NO signalling pathway. These results have improved our knowledge about intracellular messengers controlling CBF and showed that NO attenuates oviduct cell functions. Furthermore, we showed that P4 regulates neurotransmitter (ATP) actions on CBF via the NO pathway, which could explain pathologies where oviductal transport is altered and fertility decreased.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bredford Kerr
- Centro de Estudios Científicos, Av. Arturo Prat 514, 5110466, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Mariana Ríos
- Millenium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Departamento de Genética Molecular y Microbiología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Alameda 340, 8331150 Santiago, Chile
| | - Karla Droguett
- Departamento de Ciencias Fisiológicas, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Alameda 340, 8331150 Santiago, Chile
| | - Manuel Villalón
- Departamento de Ciencias Fisiológicas, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Alameda 340, 8331150 Santiago, Chile
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46
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Alfradique VAP, Souza-Fabjan JMG, Batista RITP, Côrtes LR, Bragança GM, de Souza CV, Bartlewski PM, Brandão FZ. Bovine oviductal fluid (bOF) collected in the follicular or luteal phase of the estrous cycle exerts similar effects on ram sperm kinematics and acrosome reactivity in vitro. Reprod Biol 2019; 19:279-286. [PMID: 31439505 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2019.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2019] [Revised: 07/11/2019] [Accepted: 07/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
This study examined the effects of bovine oviductal fluid (bOF) obtained during the follicular or luteal phase of the estrous cycle on ram sperm kinematics, capacitation status and plasma membrane (PM) integrity at various time points during the 24-h incubation period. Fresh ram spermatozoa were selected using the swim-up technique and then incubated separately with either follicular phase (FbOF) or luteal phase (LbOF) bovine oviductal fluid added to Fert-TALP medium (positive control - POSControl) or in Fert-TALP medium without capacitating agents (negative control - NEGControl) at 38 °C under 5% CO2. Incubation with FbOF or LbOF for 2 h and 4 h promoted an increase (P < 0.05) in most of the sperm motility parameters as compared with the NEGControl group, and bOF-induced changes in sperm kinematics were similar (P > 0.05) to those seen in the POSControl group. After 6 h of incubation, the stimulatory effect of FbOF or LbOF on ram sperm kinematics was no longer observed (P > 0.05). Sperm PM integrity was not affected (P > 0.05) by incubation in bOF-supplemented media or in absence of capacitating factors (NEGControl). Although neither FbOF nor LbOF had any effect on sperm capacitation rates, the proportion of acrosome-reacted spermatozoa was greater (P < 0.05) for bOF-containing media compared with the NEGControl group during the long incubation periods (18 h and 24 h). In conclusion, bOF from either follicular or luteal phase of the estrous cycle enhances ram sperm motility for up to 4 h and the rate of acrosome reaction after long (18-24 h) incubation periods without affecting sperm viability.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Luana Rangel Côrtes
- Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, RJ, Brazil
| | | | | | - Pawel Mieczyslaw Bartlewski
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
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47
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Banliat C, Tomas D, Teixeira-Gomes AP, Uzbekova S, Guyonnet B, Labas V, Saint-Dizier M. Stage-dependent changes in oviductal phospholipid profiles throughout the estrous cycle in cattle. Theriogenology 2019; 135:65-72. [PMID: 31203089 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2019.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2019] [Revised: 05/29/2019] [Accepted: 06/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Sperm capacitation, fertilization and embryo development take place in the oviduct during the periovulatory period of the estrous cycle. Phospholipids are crucial metabolites for sperm capacitation and early embryo development. The aim of this study was to monitor the abundance of phospholipids in the bovine oviductal fluid (OF) according to the stage of the estrous cycle and the side relative to ovulation. Pairs of bovine oviducts were collected in a slaughterhouse and classified into four stages of the estrous cycle: post-ovulatory (Post-ov), mid-luteal (Mid-lut), late-luteal (Late-lut) and pre-ovulatory (Pre-ov) phases (n = 17 cows/stage). Cell-free OF from oviducts ipsilateral and contralateral to the site of ovulation were analyzed using MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry. Lipid identification was achieved by high resolution mass spectrometry. A total of 274 lipid masses were detected in the mass range of 400-1000 Da, corresponding mostly to phosphatidylcholines (PC), lysoPC, phosphatidylethanolamine (PE), lysoPE and sphingomyelins (SM). Ipsilateral and contralateral OF did not differ in their lipid profiles at any stage of the cycle. However, 127 and 96 masses were differentially abundant between stages in ipsilateral and contralateral OF, respectively. Highest differences in lipid profiles were observed in the Pre-ov vs. Mid-lut and Pre-ov vs. Late-lut comparisons in both sides relative to ovulation. Differential abundance of specific molecules of PC, PE, SM and l-carnitine were observed at Pre-ov and Post-ov compared with the luteal phase. This work proposes new candidates potentially able to regulate sperm capacitation and early embryo development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles Banliat
- UMR PRC, INRA 85, CNRS 7247, University of Tours, IFCE, 37380, Nouzilly, France; Union Evolution, Rue Eric Tabarly CS10040, 35538, Noyal-Sur-Vilaine, France
| | - Daniel Tomas
- UMR PRC, INRA 85, CNRS 7247, University of Tours, IFCE, 37380, Nouzilly, France; Plate-forme de Chirurgie et d'Imagerie pour la Recherche et l'Enseignement (CIRE), Pôle d'Analyse et d'Imagerie des Biomolécules (PAIB), INRA, CHRU of Tours, University of Tours, 37380, Nouzilly, France
| | - Ana-Paula Teixeira-Gomes
- Plate-forme de Chirurgie et d'Imagerie pour la Recherche et l'Enseignement (CIRE), Pôle d'Analyse et d'Imagerie des Biomolécules (PAIB), INRA, CHRU of Tours, University of Tours, 37380, Nouzilly, France; UMR ISP, INRA 1282, University of Tours, 37380, Nouzilly, France
| | - Svetlana Uzbekova
- UMR PRC, INRA 85, CNRS 7247, University of Tours, IFCE, 37380, Nouzilly, France
| | - Benoît Guyonnet
- Union Evolution, Rue Eric Tabarly CS10040, 35538, Noyal-Sur-Vilaine, France
| | - Valérie Labas
- UMR PRC, INRA 85, CNRS 7247, University of Tours, IFCE, 37380, Nouzilly, France; Plate-forme de Chirurgie et d'Imagerie pour la Recherche et l'Enseignement (CIRE), Pôle d'Analyse et d'Imagerie des Biomolécules (PAIB), INRA, CHRU of Tours, University of Tours, 37380, Nouzilly, France
| | - Marie Saint-Dizier
- UMR PRC, INRA 85, CNRS 7247, University of Tours, IFCE, 37380, Nouzilly, France; University of Tours, Faculty of Sciences and Techniques, 37200, Tours, France.
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48
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Almiñana C, Bauersachs S. Extracellular Vesicles in the Oviduct: Progress, Challenges and Implications for the Reproductive Success. Bioengineering (Basel) 2019; 6:bioengineering6020032. [PMID: 31013857 PMCID: PMC6632016 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering6020032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2019] [Revised: 04/04/2019] [Accepted: 04/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The oviduct is the anatomical part of the female reproductive tract where the early reproductive events take place, from gamete transport, fertilization and early embryo development to the delivery of a competent embryo to the uterus, which can implant and develop to term. The success of all these events rely upon a two-way dialogue between the oviduct (lining epithelium and secretions) and the gametes/embryo(s). Recently, extracellular vesicles (EVs) have been identified as major components of oviductal secretions and pointed to as mediators of the gamete/embryo-maternal interactions. EVs, comprising exosomes and microvesicles, have emerged as important agents of cell-to-cell communication by the transfer of biomolecules (i.e., mRNAs, miRNAs, proteins) that can modulate the activities of recipient cells. Here, we provide the current knowledge of EVs in the oviductal environment, from isolation to characterization, and a description of the EVs molecular content and associated functional aspects in different species. The potential role of oviductal EVs (oEVs) as modulators of gamete/embryo-oviduct interactions and their implications in the success of early reproductive events is addressed. Lastly, we discuss current challenges and future directions towards the potential application of oEVs as therapeutic vectors to improve pregnancy disorders, infertility problems and increase the success of assisted reproductive technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen Almiñana
- Genetics and Functional Genomics Group, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland.
- UMR85 PRC, INRA, CNRS 7247, Université de Tours, IFCE, 37380 Nouzilly, France.
| | - Stefan Bauersachs
- Genetics and Functional Genomics Group, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland.
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49
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Banliat C, Dubuisson F, Corbin E, Beurois J, Tomas D, Le Bourhis D, Salvetti P, Labas V, Mermillod P, Saint-Dizier M. Intraoviductal concentrations of steroid hormones during in vitro culture changed phospholipid profiles and cryotolerance of bovine embryos. Mol Reprod Dev 2019; 86:661-672. [PMID: 30950150 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2018] [Revised: 03/14/2019] [Accepted: 03/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of progesterone (P4), estradiol (E2), and cortisol (CO) at intraoviductal concentrations on bovine embryo development and quality in vitro. After fertilization of in vitro matured oocytes, zygotes were cultured for 8 days in synthetic oviductal fluid, supplemented with 55 ng/ml P4, 120 pg/ml E2, 40 ng/ml CO, or their combination (ALL). Control embryos were cultured with vehicle (0.1% ethanol). Exposure to steroids did not affect the embryo developmental rate nor the mean number of cells per blastocyst. However, at 24 hr after vitrification-warming, exposure to P4 improved the proportion of embryos that re-expanded and were viable while exposure to CO decreased the proportion of viable embryos. By intact cell MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry, a total of 242 phospholipid masses of 400-1000 m/z were detected from individual fresh blastocysts. Exposure to ALL induced the highest and most specific changes in embryo phospholipids, followed by P4, E2, and CO. In particular, the m/z 546.3 and 546.4 attributed to lysophosphatidylcholines were found less abundant after exposure to P4. In conclusion, exposure of bovine embryos to intraoviductal concentrations of steroid hormones did not affect in vitro development but changed blastocyst quality in terms of cryotolerance and phospholipid profiles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles Banliat
- Plate-forme de Chirurgie et d'Imagerie pour la Recherche et l'Enseignement (CIRE), Pôle d'Analyse et d'Imagerie des Biomolécules (PAIB), INRA, CHRU de Tours, Université de Tours, Nouzilly, France.,UMR PRC, INRA 85, CNRS 7247, University of Tours, IFCE, Nouzilly, France
| | - Florine Dubuisson
- UMR PRC, INRA 85, CNRS 7247, University of Tours, IFCE, Nouzilly, France
| | - Emilie Corbin
- UMR PRC, INRA 85, CNRS 7247, University of Tours, IFCE, Nouzilly, France
| | - Julie Beurois
- UMR PRC, INRA 85, CNRS 7247, University of Tours, IFCE, Nouzilly, France
| | - Daniel Tomas
- Plate-forme de Chirurgie et d'Imagerie pour la Recherche et l'Enseignement (CIRE), Pôle d'Analyse et d'Imagerie des Biomolécules (PAIB), INRA, CHRU de Tours, Université de Tours, Nouzilly, France
| | | | | | - Valérie Labas
- Plate-forme de Chirurgie et d'Imagerie pour la Recherche et l'Enseignement (CIRE), Pôle d'Analyse et d'Imagerie des Biomolécules (PAIB), INRA, CHRU de Tours, Université de Tours, Nouzilly, France.,UMR PRC, INRA 85, CNRS 7247, University of Tours, IFCE, Nouzilly, France
| | - Pascal Mermillod
- UMR PRC, INRA 85, CNRS 7247, University of Tours, IFCE, Nouzilly, France
| | - Marie Saint-Dizier
- UMR PRC, INRA 85, CNRS 7247, University of Tours, IFCE, Nouzilly, France.,University of Tours, Faculty of Sciences and Techniques, Tours, France
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50
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Machado-Neves M, Assis WAD, Gomes MG, Oliveira CAD. Oviduct morphology and estrogen receptors ERα and ERβ expression in captive Chinchilla lanigera (Hystricomorpha: Chinchillidae). Gen Comp Endocrinol 2019; 273:32-39. [PMID: 29574151 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2018.03.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2018] [Revised: 03/11/2018] [Accepted: 03/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Chinchilla lanigera is a hystricomorph rodent from South America whose reproductive biology presents particular characteristics that distinguishes it from other Rodentia species, such as low reproductive rate, seasonal breeding pattern, and long estrous cycle. Nevertheless, reproductive features in female chinchillas are still poorly investigated, with a scarce knowledge concerning the estrous cycle and the histology of reproductive organs. In this study, we investigate the morphology, histomorphometry, secretory activity, and immunolocalization of estrogen receptors ERα and ERβ in oviducts of nulliparous chinchillas, euthanized at fall season in Brazil. Follicular phase of estrous cycle of all studied animals was characterized by ovary and uterine morphology inspection, as well as vaginal cytology. Similar to other mammals, the oviduct wall of infundibulum, ampulla and isthmus was composed of mucosa, muscle, and serosa layers. Morphometric data of oviduct layers were used for identifying each oviduct segment. In the follicular phase, the oviduct was characterized by intense secretory activity, mainly in the ampulla, and expression of ERα and ERβ throughout the oviduct epithelium. Both ERα and ERβ were also detected in the connective tissue and smooth muscle cells. Our findings point out to the important role of estrogen in this female organ. Similar wide distribution of both ER proteins has been described for human Fallopian tube. Taken together, our data add to the understanding of the reproductive biology of female chinchillas, and may assist in the intensive breeding of this species and any eventual endeavor for conservation of chinchillas in the wild.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Machado-Neves
- Departamento de Biologia Geral, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, CEP 36570-900, Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
| | - Wiviane Alves de Assis
- Departamento de Morfologia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Cx Postal 486, CEP 31270-901, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Mardelene Geísa Gomes
- Escola de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, CEP 31270-901, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Cleida Aparecida de Oliveira
- Departamento de Morfologia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Cx Postal 486, CEP 31270-901, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
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