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Palay P, Fathi D, Saffari H, Hassani F, Hajiaghalou S, Fathi R. Simple bioelectrical microsensor: oocyte quality prediction via membrane electrophysiological characterization. LAB ON A CHIP 2024; 24:3909-3929. [PMID: 38985018 DOI: 10.1039/d3lc01120h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/11/2024]
Abstract
Oocyte selection is a crucial step of assisted reproductive treatment. The most common approach relies on the embryologist experience which is inevitably prone to human error. One potential approach could be the use of an electrical-based approach as an ameliorative alternative. Here, we developed a simple electrical microsensor to characterize mouse oocytes. The sensor is designed similarly to embryo culture dishes and is familiar to embryologists. Different microelectrode models were simulated for oocyte cells and a more sensitive model was determined. The final microsensor was fabricated. A differential measuring technique was proposed based on the cell presence/absence. We predicted oocyte quality by using three electrical characteristics, oocyte radii, and zona thicknesses, and also these predictions were compared with an embryologist evaluation. The evaluation of the oocyte membrane capacitance, as an electrophysiological characteristic, was found to be a more reliable method for predicting oocytes with fertilization and blastocyst formation success competence. It achieved 94% and 58% prediction accuracies, respectively, surpassing other methods and yielding lower errors. This groundbreaking research represents the first of its kind in this field and we hope that this will be a step towards improving the accuracy of the treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peyman Palay
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Tarbiat Modares University (TMU), Tehran, Iran.
| | - Davood Fathi
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Tarbiat Modares University (TMU), Tehran, Iran.
| | - Hassan Saffari
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Tarbiat Modares University (TMU), Tehran, Iran.
| | - Fatemeh Hassani
- Department of Embryology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Academic Center for Education, Culture and Research (ACECR), Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Samira Hajiaghalou
- Department of Embryology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Academic Center for Education, Culture and Research (ACECR), Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Rouhollah Fathi
- Department of Embryology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Academic Center for Education, Culture and Research (ACECR), Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, Tehran, Iran.
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2
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Volovsky M, Seifer DB. Current Status of Ovarian and Endometrial Biomarkers in Predicting ART Outcomes. J Clin Med 2024; 13:3739. [PMID: 38999305 PMCID: PMC11242103 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13133739] [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: 05/14/2024] [Revised: 06/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024] Open
Abstract
This review evaluates the role of ovarian and endometrial biomarkers in predicting outcomes in assisted reproductive technology (ART). It highlights established ovarian biomarkers such as the anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), alongside emerging ones like growth differentiation factor 9 (GDF9), bone morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP15), connexin, and granulosa cell gene profiles. Additionally, the paper explores endometrial biomarkers such as ERA, BCL6, and immune markers, as well as the potential for genomic and proteomic technologies in customizing implantation. It concludes that while many of these biomarkers show promise, their clinical integration requires rigorous research and validation to confirm their safety and utility in ART.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Volovsky
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
| | - David B Seifer
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
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Chu Y, Li Q, He Y, Li H, Wang Q, Li S, Wang J, Wang W, Ju S. Exposure to chlorpyrifos interferes with intercellular communication in cumulus-oocyte complexes during porcine oocyte maturation. Food Chem Toxicol 2024; 187:114629. [PMID: 38565334 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2024.114629] [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: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Chlorpyrifos (CPF), a widely used organophosphorus pesticide (OP) to control pests has been verified reproductive toxicity on mammalian oocytes. However, limited information exists on its correlation with the dysfunction of the intercellular communication in cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs). Herein, our study utilized porcine COCs as models to directly address the latent impact of CPF on the communication between cumulus cells (CCs) and oocytes during in vitro maturation. The results demonstrated that CPF exposure decreased the rate of the first polar body (PB1) extrusion and blocked meiosis progression. Notably, the cumulus expansion of CPF-exposed COCs was suppressed significantly, accompanied by the down-regulated mRNA levels of cumulus expansion-related genes. Furthermore, the early apoptotic level was raised and the expression of BAX/BCL2 and cleaved caspase 3 was up-regulated in the CCs of CPF-exposed COCs (p < 0.05). Moreover, CPF exposure impaired mRNA levels of antioxidant enzyme-related genes, induced higher levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reduced the levels of mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) in CCs (p < 0.05). Additionally, the integrated optical density (IOD) rate (cumulus/oocyte) of calcein and the expression of connexin 43 (CX43) was increased in CPF treatment groups (p < 0.05). As well, CPF exposure reduced the expression levels of FSCN1, DAAM1 and MYO10, which resulted in a significant decrease in the number and fluorescence intensity of transzonal projections (TZPs). In conclusion, CPF inhibited the expansion of cumulus and caused oxidative stress and apoptosis as well as disturbed the function of gap junctions (GJs) and TZPs, which eventually resulted in the failure of oocyte maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yajie Chu
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, China
| | - Qiao Li
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, China
| | - Yijing He
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, China
| | - Heran Li
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, China
| | - Qijia Wang
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, China
| | - Shurui Li
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, China
| | - Jianuo Wang
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, China
| | - Weihan Wang
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, China
| | - Shiqiang Ju
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, China.
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Leighton SE, Wong RS, Lucaciu SA, Hauser A, Johnston D, Stathopulos PB, Bai D, Penuela S, Laird DW. Cx31.1 can selectively intermix with co-expressed connexins to facilitate its assembly into gap junctions. J Cell Sci 2024; 137:jcs261631. [PMID: 38533727 PMCID: PMC11058089 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.261631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Connexins are channel-forming proteins that function to facilitate gap junctional intercellular communication. Here, we use dual cell voltage clamp and dye transfer studies to corroborate past findings showing that Cx31.1 (encoded by GJB5) is defective in gap junction channel formation, illustrating that Cx31.1 alone does not form functional gap junction channels in connexin-deficient mammalian cells. Rather Cx31.1 transiently localizes to the secretory pathway with a subpopulation reaching the cell surface, which is rarely seen in puncta reminiscent of gap junctions. Intracellular retained Cx31.1 was subject to degradation as Cx31.1 accumulated in the presence of proteasomal inhibition, had a faster turnover when Cx43 was present and ultimately reached lysosomes. Although intracellularly retained Cx31.1 was found to interact with Cx43, this interaction did not rescue its delivery to the cell surface. Conversely, the co-expression of Cx31 dramatically rescued the assembly of Cx31.1 into gap junctions where gap junction-mediated dye transfer was enhanced. Collectively, our results indicate that the localization and functional status of Cx31.1 is altered through selective interplay with co-expressed connexins, perhaps suggesting Cx31.1 is a key regulator of intercellular signaling in keratinocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie E. Leighton
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada
| | - Robert S. Wong
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada
| | - Sergiu A. Lucaciu
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada
| | - Alexandra Hauser
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada
| | - Danielle Johnston
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada
| | - Peter B. Stathopulos
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada
| | - Donglin Bai
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada
| | - Silvia Penuela
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada
- Western's Bone and Joint Institute, The Dr. Sandy Kirkley Centre for Musculoskeletal Research, University Hospital, London, ON N6A 5B9, Canada
- Division of Experimental Oncology, Department of Oncology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 5W9, Canada
| | - Dale W. Laird
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada
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Sidell N, Rajakumar A. Retinoic Acid Action in Cumulus Cells: Implications for Oocyte Development and In Vitro Fertilization. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1709. [PMID: 38338985 PMCID: PMC10855907 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25031709] [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: 12/14/2023] [Revised: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
In the field of human in vitro fertilization (IVF), selecting the best oocyte for freezing or embryo for transfer remains an important focus of clinical practice. Although several techniques are and have been used for this goal, results have generally not been favorable and/or are invasive such that damage to some embryos occurs, resulting in a reduced number of healthy births. Therefore, the search continues for non-invasive oocyte and embryo quality markers that signal the development of high-quality embryos. Multiple studies indicate the important positive effects of retinoic acid (RA) on oocyte maturation and function. We previously showed that a high follicular fluid (FF) RA concentration at the time of oocyte retrieval in IVF protocols was associated with oocytes, giving rise to the highest quality embryos, and that cumulus granulosa cells (CGCs) are the primary source of follicle RA synthesis. Data also demonstrated that connexin-43 (Cx43), the main connexin that forms gap junctions in CGCs, is regulated by RA and that RA induces a rapid increase in gap junction communication. Here, we hypothesize that CGC RA plays a causal role in oocyte competency through its action on Cx43 and, as such, may serve as a biomarker of oocyte competence. Multiple studies have demonstrated the requirement for Cx43 in CGCs for the normal progression of folliculogenesis, and that the increased expression of this connexin is linked to the improved developmental competence of the oocyte. The data have shown that RA can up-regulate gap junction intercellular communication (GJIC) in the cumulus-oocyte complex via a non-genomic mechanism that results in the dephosphorylation of Cx43 and enhanced GJIC. Recognizing the positive role played by gap junctions in CGCs in oocyte development and the regulation of Cx43 by RA, the findings have highlighted the possibility that CGC RA levels may serve as a non-invasive indicator for selecting high-quality oocytes for IVF procedures. In addition, the data suggest that the manipulation of Cx43 with retinoid compounds could provide new pharmacological approaches to improve IVF outcomes in cases of failed implantation, recurrent miscarriage, or in certain diseases that are characterized by reduced fecundity, such as endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neil Sidell
- Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA;
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Zhao Y, Namei E, Yang B, Bao X, Sun W, Subudeng G, Cao G, Li H, Wang G. Cyclic AMP mediates ovine cumulus-oocyte gap junctional function via balancing connexin 43 expression and phosphorylation. Endocr Connect 2023; 12:e230337. [PMID: 37855365 PMCID: PMC10620458 DOI: 10.1530/ec-23-0337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023]
Abstract
Gap junction channels in cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) enable the transmission and communication of small molecular signals between adjacent cells, such as cAMP. However, the regulation of gap junction function (GJF) by cAMP and the underlying mechanisms involved are not fully clarified. This study investigated the effect of cAMP on connexin 43 (CX43) expression and GJF in ovine COCs using immunofluorescence, quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR), western blotting, and GJF detection. The CX43 was only found in the cumulus cells (CCs) side of ovine COC. The intra-oocyte cAMP showed a significant increase at 30 min, while the intra-CC cAMP exhibited two peaks at 10 min and 1 h during in vitro maturation (IVM). Phosphorylated CX43 protein exhibited an immediate increase at 10 min, and CX43 protein displayed two peaks at 10 min and 1 h during IVM. The duration of pre-IVM exposure to forskolin and IBMX significantly enhanced phosphorylated and total CX43, as well as Gja1 and Creb genes, for 10 min; these effects were counteracted by Rp-cAMP. Both pre-IVM with forskolin and IBMX for 1 h and the GJF and CX43/p-CX43 ratio were elevated. The closure of gap junction channels caused by phosphorylated CX43 to prevent cAMP outflow from oocytes in early IVM of COC. Cyclic AMP upregulated phosphorylated and total CX43 via genomic and non-genomic pathways, but its functional regulation was dependent on the balance of the two proteins. This study provides a new insight into the regulatory mechanism between cAMP and GJF, which would improve IVM in animal and clinical research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yufen Zhao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, PR China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Embryo and Development Engineering of Autonomous Region Universities, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, PR China
| | - Erge Namei
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, PR China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Embryo and Development Engineering of Autonomous Region Universities, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, PR China
| | - Bingxue Yang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, PR China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Embryo and Development Engineering of Autonomous Region Universities, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, PR China
| | - Xiangnan Bao
- Inner Mongolia Saikexing Institute of Breeding and Reproductive Biotechnology in Domestic Animal, Hohhot, PR China
- National Center of Technology Innovation for Dairy Industry, Hohhot, PR China
| | - Wei Sun
- Inner Mongolia Saikexing Institute of Breeding and Reproductive Biotechnology in Domestic Animal, Hohhot, PR China
| | - Gerile Subudeng
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, PR China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Embryo and Development Engineering of Autonomous Region Universities, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, PR China
| | - Guifang Cao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, PR China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Embryo and Development Engineering of Autonomous Region Universities, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, PR China
| | - Haijun Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, PR China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Embryo and Development Engineering of Autonomous Region Universities, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, PR China
| | - Gui Wang
- Animal Genetic Breeding and Reproduction Research Center, Hetao College, Bayannur, PR China
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Pei Z, Deng K, Xu C, Zhang S. The molecular regulatory mechanisms of meiotic arrest and resumption in Oocyte development and maturation. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2023; 21:90. [PMID: 37784186 PMCID: PMC10544615 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-023-01143-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/04/2023] Open
Abstract
In human female primordial germ cells, the transition from mitosis to meiosis begins from the fetal stage. In germ cells, meiosis is arrested at the diplotene stage of prophase in meiosis I (MI) after synapsis and recombination of homologous chromosomes, which cannot be segregated. Within the follicle, the maintenance of oocyte meiotic arrest is primarily attributed to high cytoplasmic concentrations of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP). Depending on the specific species, oocytes can remain arrested for extended periods of time, ranging from months to even years. During estrus phase in animals or the menstrual cycle in humans, the resumption of meiosis occurs in certain oocytes due to a surge of luteinizing hormone (LH) levels. Any factor interfering with this process may lead to impaired oocyte maturation, which in turn affects female reproductive function. Nevertheless, the precise molecular mechanisms underlying this phenomenon has not been systematically summarized yet. To provide a comprehensive understanding of the recently uncovered regulatory network involved in oocyte development and maturation, the progress of the cellular and molecular mechanisms of oocyte nuclear maturation including meiosis arrest and meiosis resumption is summarized. Additionally, the advancements in understanding the molecular cytoplasmic events occurring in oocytes, such as maternal mRNA degradation, posttranslational regulation, and organelle distribution associated with the quality of oocyte maturation, are reviewed. Therefore, understanding the pathways regulating oocyte meiotic arrest and resumption will provide detailed insight into female reproductive system and provide a theoretical basis for further research and potential approaches for novel disease treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenle Pei
- Shanghai Ji Ai Genetics & IVF Institute, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Ke Deng
- Shanghai Ji Ai Genetics & IVF Institute, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Congjian Xu
- Shanghai Ji Ai Genetics & IVF Institute, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, 200011, China.
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology of Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
| | - Shuo Zhang
- Shanghai Ji Ai Genetics & IVF Institute, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, 200011, China.
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Lucaciu SA, Figliuzzi R, Neumann R, Nazarali S, Del Sordo L, Leighton SE, Hauser A, Shao Q, Johnston D, Bai D, Laird DW. GJB4 variants linked to skin disease exhibit a trafficking deficiency en route to gap junction formation that can be restored by co-expression of select connexins. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1073805. [PMID: 36861039 PMCID: PMC9968944 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1073805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Epidermal keratinocytes are enriched with at least nine connexins that are key regulators of epidermal homeostasis. The role of Cx30.3 in keratinocytes and epidermal health became evident when fourteen autosomal dominant mutations in the Cx30.3-encoding GJB4 gene were linked to a rare and incurable skin disorder called erythrokeratodermia variabilis et progressiva (EKVP). While these variants are linked to EKVP, they remain largely uncharacterized hindering therapeutic options. In this study, we characterize the expression and functional status of three EKVP-linked Cx30.3 mutants (G12D, T85P, and F189Y) in tissue-relevant and differentiation-competent rat epidermal keratinocytes. We found that GFP-tagged Cx30.3 mutants were non-functional likely due to their impaired trafficking and primary entrapment within the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). However, all mutants failed to increase BiP/GRP78 levels suggesting they were not inducing an unfolded protein response. FLAG-tagged Cx30.3 mutants were also trafficking impaired yet occasionally exhibited some capacity to assemble into gap junctions. The pathological impact of these mutants may extend beyond their trafficking deficiencies as keratinocytes expressing FLAG-tagged Cx30.3 mutants exhibited increased propidium iodide uptake in the absence of divalent cations. Attempts to rescue the delivery of trafficking impaired GFP-tagged Cx30.3 mutants into gap junctions by chemical chaperone treatment were ineffective. However, co-expression of wild type Cx30.3 greatly enhanced the assembly of Cx30.3 mutants into gap junctions, although endogenous levels of Cx30.3 do not appear to prevent the skin pathology found in patients harboring these autosomal dominant mutations. In addition, a spectrum of connexin isoforms (Cx26, Cx30, and Cx43) exhibited the differential ability to trans-dominantly rescue the assembly of GFP-tagged Cx30.3 mutants into gap junctions suggesting a broad range of connexins found in keratinocytes may favourably interact with Cx30.3 mutants. We conclude that selective upregulation of compatible wild type connexins in keratinocytes may have potential therapeutic value in rescuing epidermal defects invoked by Cx30.3 EKVP-linked mutants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergiu A. Lucaciu
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada,Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Rhett Figliuzzi
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Ruth Neumann
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Samina Nazarali
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Luigi Del Sordo
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada,Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Stephanie E. Leighton
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Alexandra Hauser
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Qing Shao
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Danielle Johnston
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Donglin Bai
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Dale W. Laird
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada,Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada,*Correspondence: Dale W. Laird,
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Darbandi S, Darbandi M, Khorram Khorshid HR, Sengupta P. Electrophysiology of Human Gametes: A Systematic Review. World J Mens Health 2022; 40:442-455. [PMID: 35021309 PMCID: PMC9253800 DOI: 10.5534/wjmh.210107] [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: 07/14/2021] [Revised: 09/05/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Oocytes and spermatozoa are electrogenic cells with the ability to respond to electrical stimuli and modulate their electrical properties accordingly. Determination of the ionic events during the gamete maturation helps to design suitable culture media for gametes in assisted reproductive technology (ART). The present systematic review focuses on the electrophysiology of human gametes during different stages of maturation and also during fertilization. MATERIALS AND METHODS The reports published in the English language between January 2000 and July 2021 were extracted from various electronic scientific databases following the PRISMA checklist using specific MeSH keywords. RESULTS Subsequent to the screening process with defined inclusion and exclusion criteria, 60 articles have been included in this review. Among them, 11 articles were directly related to the electrophysiology of human oocytes and 49 physiology department to the electrophysiology of human spermatozoa. CONCLUSIONS Gametes generate electrical currents by ionic exchange, particularly Na+, K+, Cl-, H+, Zn2+, Cu2+, Se2+, Mg2+, HCO3-, and Ca2+ through specific ion channels in different stages of gamete maturation. The ionic concentrations, pH, and other physicochemical variables are modulated during the gametogenesis, maturation, activation, and the fertilization process following gamete function and metabolism. The electrical properties of human gametes change during different stages of maturation. Although it is demonstrated that the electrical properties are significant regulators of cell signaling and are fundamental to gamete maturation and fertilization, their exact roles in these processes are still poorly understood. Further research is required to unveil the intricate electrophysiological processes of human gamete maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Darbandi
- Fetal Health Research Center, Hope Generation Foundation, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahsa Darbandi
- Fetal Health Research Center, Hope Generation Foundation, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamid Reza Khorram Khorshid
- Gene Therapy and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Hope Generation Foundation, Tehran, Iran
- Personalized Medicine and Genometabolomics Research Center, Hope Generation Foundation, Tehran, Iran
| | - Pallav Sengupta
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Biosciences and Nursing, MAHSA University, Jenjarom, Selangor, Malaysia
- School of Medical Sciences, Bharath Institute of Higher Education and Research (BIHER), Chennai, India.
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Mohan Jeena L, Kumar D, Rahangdale S, Pratap Singh A, Chandra Sarkhel B. Transcriptional profile of cumulus associated GJA1, PTX3, PRSS35, and SERPINE2 genes with oocytes and embryonic development in water buffalo. Mol Biol Rep 2022; 49:6285-6293. [PMID: 35460443 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-022-07435-9] [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: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the present study, the potential of different groups of cumulus-oocyte complexes (COC's) for in vitro maturation (IVM) and embryonic development was assessed in two groups of COC's of water buffalo. Further, the expression pattern of cumulus-associated GJA1, PTX3, PRSS35, and SERPINE2 genes and their effects on embryonic development was analyzed. Slaughterhouse-derived buffalo COC's were graded into groups A and B. An equal number of 410 COC's were taken in both groups. IVM was carried out using Slaughterhouse-derived buffalo epididymis. A remarkable degree of cumulus expansion was noticed in group A (92.68%) as compared to group B (81.25%) oocytes. On in vitro fertilization (IVF) and embryo culture, group A produced a significantly higher rate of cleavage and blastocyst (92.682 ± 0.7179% and 42.682 ± 0.9683%) as compared to group B (85.365 ± 0.7608% and 31.707 ± 0.9688%). Also, the transcriptional analysis of cumulus-associated genes revealed significantly higher expression in group A as compared to group B. RESULTS It was revealed that oocytes having good cumulus mass had a higher developmental potential. Based on differential gene expression of cumulus-associated genes, different quality of COC's, and the resultant embryos after IVF, it was concluded that these genes could be used as a marker for predicting the developmental competence of the oocytes. CONCLUSION We concluded that morphologically good quality of COC's had a higher developmental competence, and also the differential expressions of cumulus-associated genes in cumulus cells and embryos. So, we can conclude that these genes could be used as marker genes for predicting the developmental competence of buffalo's oocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lalit Mohan Jeena
- Animal Biotechnology Center, Nanaji Deshmukh Veterinary Science University, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, 482004, India.
| | - Dharmendra Kumar
- Animal Biotechnology Center, Nanaji Deshmukh Veterinary Science University, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, 482004, India
| | - Sandeep Rahangdale
- Animal Biotechnology Center, Nanaji Deshmukh Veterinary Science University, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, 482004, India
| | - Ajit Pratap Singh
- Animal Biotechnology Center, Nanaji Deshmukh Veterinary Science University, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, 482004, India
| | - Bikash Chandra Sarkhel
- Animal Biotechnology Center, Nanaji Deshmukh Veterinary Science University, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, 482004, India
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11
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Hajati F, Kashi AM, Totonchi M, Valojerdi MR. Post-thawing and culture comparison of three routine slow freezing methods for human ovarian tissue cryopreservation: Histological, molecular, and hormonal aspects. Cryobiology 2021; 104:32-41. [PMID: 34808110 DOI: 10.1016/j.cryobiol.2021.11.174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2021] [Revised: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 11/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
To find the gold standard out of three pre-established routine slow freezing (SF) methods, ovarian cortex tissues of nine transsexual individuals were cryopreserved and compared to each other, as well as the control (fresh) samples. Histological, genomic, and endocrinological effects of the SFs were assessed post-thawing and after a seven-day culture period. SF1 included 10% dimethyl-sulfoxide (Me2SO) in the base medium (BM), SF2 had 1.5 M/L ethylene-glycol (EG) and 0.1 M/L sucrose in the BM, and SF3 consisted of 6% Me2SO, 6% EG and 0.15 M/L sucrose in the BM. The cortical tissue strips went under a programmed cooling process and were stored in liquid nitrogen. Histological criteria (tissue damage and follicular quality), as well as gene expression levels, were assessed in the thawed and control tissues. Half of the thawed and control tissues were cultured for seven days and their histology, genetic profile, and hormonal status were examined as the reflection of the avascular tension effect. Post-thawing tissue damage was similar between all groups but significantly increased post-culture (P < 0.05). The percentages of high-quality follicles diminished in all SFs after thawing and culture (P < 0.05) except for the similarity of post-thawing SF3, compared to control. The genetic profile of the tissue after thawing and culture suggested quiescence/activation balance in SF1 and 2 and significant down-regulation in SF3, compared to the control specimens (P < 0.05). Post-thawing BAX:BCL2 was higher than control in SF1 and SF3 (P < 0.05), while this ratio in SF2 was similar to the control. However, after culture this ratio was similar to that of control in SF3 and diminished in SF1 and 2 (P < 0.05). The expression levels of gap-junction genes showed dramatic pre- and post-thawing fluctuations in all groups. After culture, estradiol in SF3 was significantly higher than SF1 and 2 (P < 0.05). In addition, progesterone in SF3 was similar to control but significantly lower in SF1 and 2 (P < 0.05). In conclusion, all SFs showed advantages and disadvantages, and the follicular quality and its function depend on the type of cryoprotectant and the speed of thawing. The effects of freezing/thawing continue to appear during the seven days of culture. According to the results of this study, SF3 seems to be more promising in keeping the follicles functional and safe from cell damage during culture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fateme Hajati
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medical Science, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Mehdi Totonchi
- Department of Genetics, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mojtaba Rezazadeh Valojerdi
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medical Science, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran; Department of Embryology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran.
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12
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Sirait B, Wiweko B, Jusuf AA, Iftitah D, Muharam R. Oocyte Competence Biomarkers Associated With Oocyte Maturation: A Review. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:710292. [PMID: 34527670 PMCID: PMC8435600 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.710292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Oocyte developmental competence is one of the determining factors that influence the outcomes of an IVF cycle regarding the ability of a female gamete to reach maturation, be fertilized, and uphold an embryonic development up until the blastocyst stage. The current approach of assessing the competency of an oocyte is confined to an ambiguous and subjective oocyte morphological evaluation. Over the years, a myriad of biomarkers in the cumulus-oocyte-complex has been identified that could potentially function as molecular predictors for IVF program prognosis. This review aims to describe the predictive significance of several cumulus-oocyte complex (COC) biomarkers in evaluating oocyte developmental competence. A total of eight acclaimed cumulus biomarkers are examined in the study. RT-PCR and microarray analysis were extensively used to assess the significance of these biomarkers in foreseeing oocyte developmental competence. Notably, these biomarkers regulate vital processes associated with oocyte maturation and were found to be differentially expressed in COC encapsulating oocytes of different maturity. The biomarkers were reviewed according to the respective oocyte maturation events namely: nuclear maturation, apoptosis, and extracellular matrix remodeling, and steroid metabolism. Although substantial in vitro evidence was presented to justify the potential use of cumulus biomarkers in predicting oocyte competency and IVF outcomes, the feasibility of assessing these biomarkers as an add-on prognostic procedure in IVF is still restricted due to study challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Batara Sirait
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Kristen Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia.,Morula IVF Jakarta Clinic, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Budi Wiweko
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia.,Yasmin IVF Clinic, Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo General Hospital, Jakarta, Indonesia.,Human Reproductive, Infertility, and Family Planning Research Cluster, Indonesia Medical Education and Research Institute (IMERI), Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Ahmad Aulia Jusuf
- Department of Histology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Dein Iftitah
- Human Reproductive, Infertility, and Family Planning Research Cluster, Indonesia Medical Education and Research Institute (IMERI), Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - R Muharam
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia.,Yasmin IVF Clinic, Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo General Hospital, Jakarta, Indonesia.,Human Reproductive, Infertility, and Family Planning Research Cluster, Indonesia Medical Education and Research Institute (IMERI), Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
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13
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Jiang L, Huang H, Qian Y, Li Y, Chen X, Di N, Yang D. miR-130b regulates gap junctional intercellular communication through connexin 43 in granulosa cells from patients with polycystic ovary syndrome. Mol Hum Reprod 2021; 26:576-584. [PMID: 32559300 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaaa044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2020] [Revised: 05/10/2020] [Accepted: 06/11/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small, noncoding RNAs that negatively regulate gene expression post-transcriptionally. We explored whether connexin 43 (Cx43) was differently expressed in luteinized granulosa cells from women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) compared with luteinized granulosa cells from women with a normal menstrual cycle, and whether certain miRNAs regulate the Cx43 level and gap junctional intercellular communication (GJIC). The miRNA profile was investigated in ovarian cortex tissues from five women with PCOS and five women without PCOS using a miRNA microarray. The levels of miR-130b and Cx43 mRNA were measured using real-time PCR in human luteinized granulosa cells from 20 women with PCOS and 25 women without PCOS. Protein and mRNA expression analysis and luciferase assays were conducted to confirm the substrate of miR-130b. PCOS ovarian cortex showed differential expression of miRNAs compared with non-PCOS ovarian cortex. Furthermore, miR-130b levels were increased in PCOS ovarian cortex and in luteinized granulosa cells compared with those in women with normal menstrual cycles, whereas the level of Cx43 mRNA, the identified target of miR-130b, was decreased in granulosa cells from patients with PCOS. Overexpression of miR-130b in a granulosa cell line resulted in reduced Cx43 protein levels and inhibited GJIC using scrape loading and dye transfer assay. Meanwhile, inhibition of miR-130b increased the Cx43 level. In conclusion, miR-130b was increased in PCOS granulosa cells, where it targets Cx43 to affect GJIC. The results of the present study suggested that miR-130b, via post-transcriptional regulation of Cx43, is involved in the pathophysiology of PCOS, which provides new insight into the pathological mechanism of PCOS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linlin Jiang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hui Huang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Medicine Center, Xiamen University Affiliated Women and Children Hospital, Xiamen, China
| | - Yifan Qian
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yu Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoli Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Na Di
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Dongzi Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
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Stratifying Cumulus Cell Samples Based on Molecular Profiling to Help Resolve Biomarker Discrepancies and to Predict Oocyte Developmental Competence. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22126377. [PMID: 34203623 PMCID: PMC8232172 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22126377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Revised: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
To increase the efficiency of assisted reproductive techniques (ART), molecular studies have been performed to identify the best predictive biomarkers for selecting the most suitable germ cells for fertilization and the best embryo for intra-uterine transfer. However, across different studies, no universal markers have been found. In this study, we addressed this issue by generating gene expression and CpG methylation profiles of outer cumulus cells obtained during intra-cytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). We also studied the association of the generated genomic data with the clinical parameters (spindle presence, zona pellucida birefringence, pronuclear pattern, estrogen level, endometrium size and lead follicle size) and the pregnancy result. Our data highlighted the presence of several parameters that affect analysis, such as inter-individual differences, inter-treatment differences, and, above all, specific treatment protocol differences. When comparing the pregnancy outcome following the long protocol (GnRH agonist) of ovarian stimulation, we identified the single gene markers (NME6 and ASAP1, FDR < 5%) which were also correlated with endometrium size, upstream regulators (e.g., EIF2AK3, FSH, ATF4, MKNK1, and TP53) and several bio-functions related to cell death (apoptosis) and cellular growth and proliferation. In conclusion, our study highlighted the need to stratify samples that are very heterogeneous and to use pathway analysis as a more reliable and universal method for identifying markers that can predict oocyte development potential.
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Kordowitzki P, Sokołowska G, Wasielak-Politowska M, Skowronska A, Skowronski MT. Pannexins and Connexins: Their Relevance for Oocyte Developmental Competence. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22115918. [PMID: 34072911 PMCID: PMC8199496 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22115918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Revised: 05/23/2021] [Accepted: 05/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The oocyte is the major determinant of embryo developmental competence in all mammalian species. Although fundamental advances have been generated in the field of reproductive medicine and assisted reproductive technologies in the past three decades, researchers and clinicians are still trying to elucidate molecular factors and pathways, which could be pivotal for the oocyte’s developmental competence. The cell-to-cell and cell-to-matrix communications are crucial not only for oocytes but also for multicellular organisms in general. This latter mentioned communication is among others possibly due to the Connexin and Pannexin families of large-pore forming channels. Pannexins belong to a protein group of ATP-release channels, therefore of high importance for the oocyte due to its requirements of high energy supply. An increasing body of studies on Pannexins provided evidence that these channels not only play a role during physiological processes of an oocyte but also during pathological circumstances which could lead to the development of diseases or infertility. Connexins are proteins that form membrane channels and gap-junctions, and more precisely, these proteins enable the exchange of some ions and molecules, and therefore they do play a fundamental role in the communication between the oocyte and accompanying cells. Herein, the role of Pannexins and Connexins for the processes of oogenesis, folliculogenesis, oocyte maturation and fertilization will be discussed and, at the end of this review, Pannexin and Connexin related pathologies and their impact on the developmental competence of oocytes will be provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paweł Kordowitzki
- Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research of Polish Academy of Sciences, Bydgoska Street 7, 10-243 Olsztyn, Poland;
- Department of Basic and Preclinical Sciences, Faculty of Biological and Veterinary Sciences, Nicolaus Copernicus University, Gagarina Street 7, 87-100 Torun, Poland
| | - Gabriela Sokołowska
- Department of Reproduction and Gynecological Endocrinology, Medical University of Bialystok, Jana Kilińskiego Street 1, 15-089 Białystok, Poland;
| | - Marta Wasielak-Politowska
- Center of Gynecology, Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine—Artemida, Jagiellońska Street 78, 10-357 Olsztyn, Poland;
| | - Agnieszka Skowronska
- Department of Human Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Medicine, Collegium Medicum, University of Warmia and Mazury, Warszawska Street 30, 10-357 Olsztyn, Poland;
| | - Mariusz T. Skowronski
- Department of Basic and Preclinical Sciences, Faculty of Biological and Veterinary Sciences, Nicolaus Copernicus University, Gagarina Street 7, 87-100 Torun, Poland
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +48-566-112-231
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16
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Lee J, Kim E, Hwang SU, Cai L, Kim M, Choi H, Oh D, Lee E, Hyun SH. Effect of D-Glucuronic Acid and N-acetyl-D-Glucosamine Treatment during In Vitro Maturation on Embryonic Development after Parthenogenesis and Somatic Cell Nuclear Transfer in Pigs. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11041034. [PMID: 33917537 PMCID: PMC8067516 DOI: 10.3390/ani11041034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Revised: 03/31/2021] [Accepted: 04/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Hyaluronic acid, also known as hyaluronan, is essential for the expansion of cumulus cells, the maturation of oocytes, and further embryo development. This study aimed to examine the effects of treatment with glucuronic acid and N-acetyl-D-glucosamine, which are components of hyaluronic acid, during porcine oocyte in vitro maturation and embryonic development after parthenogenetic activation and somatic cell nuclear transfer. We measured the diameter of mature oocytes, the thickness of the perivitelline space, the intracellular reactive oxygen species level, and the expression of cumulus cell expansion genes and reactive oxygen species-related genes and examined the cortical granule reaction of oocytes after electrical activation. In conclusion, the addition of 0.05 mM glucuronic acid and 0.05 mM N-acetyl-D-glucosamine and during the initial 22 h of in vitro maturation in pig oocytes has beneficial effects on cumulus expansion, perivitelline space thickness, cytoplasmic maturation, reactive oxygen species level, cortical granule exocytosis, and early embryonic development after parthenogenesis and somatic cell nuclear transfer. Glucuronic acid and N-acetyl-D-glucosamine can be applied to in vitro production technology and can be used as ingredients to produce high-quality porcine blastocysts. Abstract This study aimed to examine the effects of treatment with glucuronic acid (GA) and N-acetyl-D-glucosamine (AG), which are components of hyaluronic acid (HA), during porcine oocyte in vitro maturation (IVM). We measured the diameter of the oocyte, the thickness of the perivitelline space (PVS), the reactive oxygen species (ROS) level, and the expression of cumulus cell expansion and ROS-related genes and examined the cortical granule (CG) reaction of oocytes. The addition of 0.05 mM GA and 0.05 mM AG during the first 22 h of oocyte IVM significantly increased oocyte diameter and PVS size compared with the control (non-treatment). The addition of GA and AG reduced the intra-oocyte ROS content and improved the CG of the oocyte. GA and AG treatment increased the expression of CD44 and CX43 in cumulus cells and PRDX1 and TXN2 in oocytes. In both the chemically defined and the complex medium (Medium-199 + porcine follicular fluid), oocytes derived from the GA and AG treatments presented significantly higher blastocyst rates than the control after parthenogenesis (PA) and somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT). In conclusion, the addition of GA and AG during IVM in pig oocytes has beneficial effects on oocyte IVM and early embryonic development after PA and SCNT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joohyeong Lee
- Laboratory of Veterinary Embryology and Bio-technology (VETEMBIO), Veterinary Medical Center and College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea; (J.L.); (E.K.); (S.-U.H.); (L.C.); (M.K.); (H.C.); (D.O.)
- Institute of Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine (ISCRM), Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea
| | - Eunhye Kim
- Laboratory of Veterinary Embryology and Bio-technology (VETEMBIO), Veterinary Medical Center and College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea; (J.L.); (E.K.); (S.-U.H.); (L.C.); (M.K.); (H.C.); (D.O.)
- Graduate School of Veterinary Biosecurity and Protection, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea
| | - Seon-Ung Hwang
- Laboratory of Veterinary Embryology and Bio-technology (VETEMBIO), Veterinary Medical Center and College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea; (J.L.); (E.K.); (S.-U.H.); (L.C.); (M.K.); (H.C.); (D.O.)
- Institute of Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine (ISCRM), Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea
| | - Lian Cai
- Laboratory of Veterinary Embryology and Bio-technology (VETEMBIO), Veterinary Medical Center and College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea; (J.L.); (E.K.); (S.-U.H.); (L.C.); (M.K.); (H.C.); (D.O.)
- Institute of Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine (ISCRM), Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea
| | - Mirae Kim
- Laboratory of Veterinary Embryology and Bio-technology (VETEMBIO), Veterinary Medical Center and College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea; (J.L.); (E.K.); (S.-U.H.); (L.C.); (M.K.); (H.C.); (D.O.)
- Institute of Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine (ISCRM), Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea
| | - Hyerin Choi
- Laboratory of Veterinary Embryology and Bio-technology (VETEMBIO), Veterinary Medical Center and College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea; (J.L.); (E.K.); (S.-U.H.); (L.C.); (M.K.); (H.C.); (D.O.)
- Institute of Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine (ISCRM), Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea
| | - Dongjin Oh
- Laboratory of Veterinary Embryology and Bio-technology (VETEMBIO), Veterinary Medical Center and College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea; (J.L.); (E.K.); (S.-U.H.); (L.C.); (M.K.); (H.C.); (D.O.)
- Institute of Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine (ISCRM), Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea
| | - Eunsong Lee
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Korea
- Correspondence: (E.L.); (S.-H.H.); Tel.: +82-33-250-8670 (E.L.); +82-43-261-3393 (S.-H.H.)
| | - Sang-Hwan Hyun
- Laboratory of Veterinary Embryology and Bio-technology (VETEMBIO), Veterinary Medical Center and College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea; (J.L.); (E.K.); (S.-U.H.); (L.C.); (M.K.); (H.C.); (D.O.)
- Institute of Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine (ISCRM), Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea
- Graduate School of Veterinary Biosecurity and Protection, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea
- Correspondence: (E.L.); (S.-H.H.); Tel.: +82-33-250-8670 (E.L.); +82-43-261-3393 (S.-H.H.)
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Gingrich J, Pu Y, Upham BL, Hulse M, Pearl S, Martin D, Avery A, Veiga-Lopez A. Bisphenol S enhances gap junction intercellular communication in ovarian theca cells. CHEMOSPHERE 2021; 263:128304. [PMID: 33155548 PMCID: PMC7726030 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2020.128304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2020] [Revised: 09/04/2020] [Accepted: 09/10/2020] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Gap junction intercellular communication (GJIC) is necessary for ovarian function, and it is temporospatially regulated during follicular development and ovulation. At outermost layer of the antral follicle, theca cells provide structural, steroidogenic, and vascular support. Inter- and extra-thecal GJIC is required for intrafollicular trafficking of signaling molecules. Because GJIC can be altered by hormones and endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs), we tested if any of five common EDCs (bisphenol A (BPA), bisphenol S (BPS), bisphenol F (BPF), perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS), and triphenyltin chloride (TPT)) can interfere with theca cell GJIC. Since most chemicals are reported to repress GJIC, we hypothesized that all chemicals tested, within environmentally relevant human exposure concentrations, will inhibit theca cell GJICs. To evaluate this hypothesis, we used a scrape loading/dye transfer assay. BPS, but no other chemical tested, enhanced GJIC in a dose- and time-dependent manner in ovine primary theca cells. A signal-protein inhibitor approach was used to explore the GJIC-modulatory pathways involved. Phospholipase C and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) inhibitors significantly attenuated BPS-induced enhanced GJIC. Human theca cells were used to evaluate translational relevance of these findings. Human primary theca cells had a ∼40% increase in GJIC in response to BPS, which was attenuated with a MAPK inhibitor, suggestive of a conserved mechanism. Upregulation of GJIC could result in hyperplasia of the theca cell layer or prevent ovulation by holding the oocyte in meiotic arrest. Further studies are necessary to understand in vitro to in vivo translatability of these findings on follicle development and fertility outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy Gingrich
- Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48824, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48824, USA
| | - Yong Pu
- Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48824, USA
| | - Brad L Upham
- Department of Pediatrics and Human Development, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48824, USA
| | - Madeline Hulse
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sparrow Health System, Lansing, MI, 48912, USA
| | - Sarah Pearl
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sparrow Health System, Lansing, MI, 48912, USA
| | - Denny Martin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sparrow Health System, Lansing, MI, 48912, USA
| | - Anita Avery
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sparrow Health System, Lansing, MI, 48912, USA; Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48824, USA
| | - Almudena Veiga-Lopez
- Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48824, USA; Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA.
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18
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Namei E, Sun W, Pan D, Zhao Y, Yang B, Weng Y, Du C, Li H, Yu B, Subudeng G. The advanced paraffin-section preparation technique based on multiple cumulus-oocyte complexes rather than ovaries in ovine. Reprod Biol 2020; 21:100473. [PMID: 33373929 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2020.100473] [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: 10/19/2020] [Revised: 12/09/2020] [Accepted: 12/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Immunohistochemical staining is the important method for the identification of protein expression in mammal ovaries, in particular in the follicles with the potential to develop into cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs), which are able to support oocyte maturation regardless of in vivo or in vitro. Here, we reported an advanced immunohistochemical method based on an artificial structure gathering multiple COCs by paraffin embedding for rapid and highly sensitive detection of co-expressed proteins in ovine COCs rather than ovaries. Compared with the conventional immunohistochemistry on ovine ovaries, the advanced COC paraffin sectioning technique showed the better immunostaining effect and featured the higher generation rate for COCs, the distincter cumulus layers, and the more simplified procedures. These results indicate that the COC paraffin sectioning technique is highly effectively applied for identification of protein expression in ovine COC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erge Namei
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, 010018, PR China; Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Basic Veterinary Science, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, 010018, PR China
| | - Wei Sun
- College of Life Science, Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot, 010070, PR China
| | - Deng Pan
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, 010018, PR China; Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Basic Veterinary Science, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, 010018, PR China
| | - Yufen Zhao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, 010018, PR China; Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Basic Veterinary Science, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, 010018, PR China
| | - Bingxue Yang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, 010018, PR China; Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Basic Veterinary Science, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, 010018, PR China
| | - Yu Weng
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, 010018, PR China; Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Basic Veterinary Science, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, 010018, PR China
| | - Chenguang Du
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, 010018, PR China
| | - Haijun Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, 010018, PR China; Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Basic Veterinary Science, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, 010018, PR China.
| | - Boyang Yu
- College of Basic Medical, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, 010110, PR China.
| | - Gerile Subudeng
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, 010018, PR China; Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Basic Veterinary Science, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, 010018, PR China.
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19
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Dye ZT, Rutledge LV, Penuela S, Dyce PW. Pannexin 1 inhibition delays maturation and improves development of Bos taurus oocytes. J Ovarian Res 2020; 13:98. [PMID: 32838805 PMCID: PMC7447567 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-020-00704-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2020] [Accepted: 08/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Intercellular exchange between the oocyte and its surrounding cells within the follicular environment is critical for oocyte maturation and subsequent development. In vertebrates this exchange is facilitated through gap junctions formed by connexin membrane proteins. Another family of membrane proteins called pannexins are able to form single membrane channels that allow cellular exchanges with the extracellular environment. The most ubiquitously expressed and studied member, pannexin 1 (PANX1), has yet to be described thoroughly in female reproductive tissues or functionally studied during oocyte maturation. Here, we look into the expression of pannexin 1 in bovine cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs), as well as, its potential role in oocyte maturation and development. Results We show that pannexin 1 is expressed in bovine COCs and that the expression of PANX1 was significantly lower in COCs isolated from large antral follicles (> 5 mm) compared to those isolated from small antral follicles (< 2 mm). Supporting this we also found lower expression of PANX1 in oocytes with higher developmental potential when compared to oocytes with lower developmental potential. We further found that PANX1 channel inhibition during in vitro maturation resulted in temporarily delayed meiotic maturation and improved in vitro developmental outcomes while decreasing intercellular reactive oxygen species. Conclusions These data suggests PANX1 is differentially expressed at a critical stage of follicular development when oocytes are acquiring developmental competence, and may play a role in the timing of oocyte maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachary Timothy Dye
- Department of Animal Sciences, Auburn University, CASIC Building, 559 Devall Drive, Auburn, AL, 36849, USA
| | - Lauren Virginia Rutledge
- Department of Animal Sciences, Auburn University, CASIC Building, 559 Devall Drive, Auburn, AL, 36849, USA
| | - Silvia Penuela
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Paul William Dyce
- Department of Animal Sciences, Auburn University, CASIC Building, 559 Devall Drive, Auburn, AL, 36849, USA.
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Kulus M, Kranc W, Jeseta M, Sujka-Kordowska P, Konwerska A, Ciesiółka S, Celichowski P, Moncrieff L, Kocherova I, Józkowiak M, Kulus J, Wieczorkiewicz M, Piotrowska-Kempisty H, Skowroński MT, Bukowska D, Machatkova M, Hanulakova S, Mozdziak P, Jaśkowski JM, Kempisty B, Antosik P. Cortical Granule Distribution and Expression Pattern of Genes Regulating Cellular Component Size, Morphogenesis, and Potential to Differentiation are Related to Oocyte Developmental Competence and Maturational Capacity In Vivo and In Vitro. Genes (Basel) 2020; 11:genes11070815. [PMID: 32708880 PMCID: PMC7397037 DOI: 10.3390/genes11070815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2020] [Revised: 07/10/2020] [Accepted: 07/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Polyspermia is an adverse phenomenon during mammalian fertilization when more than one sperm fuses with a single oocyte. The egg cell is prepared to prevent polyspermia by, among other ways, producing cortical granules (CGs), which are specialized intracellular structures containing enzymes that aim to harden the zona pellucida and block the fusion of subsequent sperm. This work focused on exploring the expression profile of genes that may be associated with cortical reactions, and evaluated the distribution of CGs in immature oocytes and the peripheral density of CGs in mature oocytes. Oocytes were isolated and then processed for in vitro maturation (IVM). Transcriptomic analysis of genes belonging to five ontological groups has been conducted. Six genes showed increased expression after IVM (ARHGEF2, MAP1B, CXCL12, FN1, DAB2, and SOX9), while the majority of genes decreased expression after IVM. Using CG distribution analysis in immature oocytes, movement towards the cortical zone of the oocyte during meiotic competence acquisition was observed. CGs peripheral density decreased with the rise in meiotic competence during the IVM process. The current results reveal important new insights into the in vitro maturation of oocytes. Our results may serve as a basis for further studies to investigate the cortical reaction of oocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Kulus
- Department of Veterinary Surgery, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, 87-100 Torun, Poland; (M.K.); (P.A.)
| | - Wiesława Kranc
- Department of Anatomy, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-781 Poznan, Poland; (W.K.); (I.K.)
| | - Michal Jeseta
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital and Masaryk University, 602 00 Brno, Czech Republic;
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Czech University of Life Sciences in Prague, 165 00 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Patrycja Sujka-Kordowska
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-781 Poznan, Poland; (P.S.-K.); (A.K.); (S.C.); (P.C.); (L.M.)
- Department of Anatomy and Histology, University of Zielona Gora, 65-046 Zielona Gora, Poland
| | - Aneta Konwerska
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-781 Poznan, Poland; (P.S.-K.); (A.K.); (S.C.); (P.C.); (L.M.)
| | - Sylwia Ciesiółka
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-781 Poznan, Poland; (P.S.-K.); (A.K.); (S.C.); (P.C.); (L.M.)
| | - Piotr Celichowski
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-781 Poznan, Poland; (P.S.-K.); (A.K.); (S.C.); (P.C.); (L.M.)
| | - Lisa Moncrieff
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-781 Poznan, Poland; (P.S.-K.); (A.K.); (S.C.); (P.C.); (L.M.)
- School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen AB25 2ZD, UK
| | - Ievgeniia Kocherova
- Department of Anatomy, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-781 Poznan, Poland; (W.K.); (I.K.)
| | - Małgorzata Józkowiak
- Department of Toxicology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-631 Poznan, Poland; (M.J.); (H.P.-K.)
| | - Jakub Kulus
- Department of Diagnostics and Clinical Sciences, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, 87-100 Torun, Poland; (J.K.); (D.B.); (J.M.J.)
| | - Maria Wieczorkiewicz
- Department of Basic and Preclinical Sciences, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, 87-100 Torun, Poland; (M.W.); (M.T.S.)
| | - Hanna Piotrowska-Kempisty
- Department of Toxicology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-631 Poznan, Poland; (M.J.); (H.P.-K.)
| | - Mariusz T. Skowroński
- Department of Basic and Preclinical Sciences, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, 87-100 Torun, Poland; (M.W.); (M.T.S.)
| | - Dorota Bukowska
- Department of Diagnostics and Clinical Sciences, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, 87-100 Torun, Poland; (J.K.); (D.B.); (J.M.J.)
| | - Marie Machatkova
- Veterinary Research Institute, 621 00 Brno, Czech Republic; (M.M.); (S.H.)
| | - Sarka Hanulakova
- Veterinary Research Institute, 621 00 Brno, Czech Republic; (M.M.); (S.H.)
| | - Paul Mozdziak
- Prestage Department of Poultry Science, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA;
| | - Jędrzej M. Jaśkowski
- Department of Diagnostics and Clinical Sciences, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, 87-100 Torun, Poland; (J.K.); (D.B.); (J.M.J.)
| | - Bartosz Kempisty
- Department of Veterinary Surgery, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, 87-100 Torun, Poland; (M.K.); (P.A.)
- Department of Anatomy, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-781 Poznan, Poland; (W.K.); (I.K.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital and Masaryk University, 602 00 Brno, Czech Republic;
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-781 Poznan, Poland; (P.S.-K.); (A.K.); (S.C.); (P.C.); (L.M.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +48-61-854-6418
| | - Paweł Antosik
- Department of Veterinary Surgery, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, 87-100 Torun, Poland; (M.K.); (P.A.)
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De Los Reyes M, Palomino J, Gallegos C, Espinoza R, Dettleff P, Peralta OA, Parraguez VH, Ramirez G. Gene and protein expression of connexins 37 and 43 in cumulus-oocytes complexes throughout the canine oestrous cycle. Reprod Fertil Dev 2020; 32:976-987. [PMID: 32693910 DOI: 10.1071/rd20126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2020] [Accepted: 05/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate the expression of connexin (Cx) 37 and Cx43 in canine cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) during the oestrous cycle. Cx localisation was analysed by immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence, whereas protein and gene expression was evaluated by western blotting and quantitative polymerase chain reaction respectively; comparisons were made using analysis of variance. Both Cx37 and Cx43 were expressed in all follicular stages; Cx43 was identified in cumulus cells and Cx37 was identified in cumulus cells, zonae pellucida and oocytes. Immunofluorescence analyses showed that Cx37 remained unchanged during the preovulatory stage but decreased after ovulation, whereas Cx43 remained unchanged before and after ovulation. Cx43 transcripts increased (P<0.05) during anoestrus and dioestrus in medium-sized follicles but remained unaltered during the pro-oestrus and antral stages during oestrus, before and after ovulation. Cx37 mRNA levels decreased in ovulated COCs (P<0.05). The highest levels of Cx37 protein (P<0.05) were detected in the preantral stage during anoestrus. In contrast, strong Cx43 signals were detected in oestrus and in medium-sized antral follicles in dioestrus (P<0.05). Overall, we demonstrated that Cx37 and Cx43 exhibit different expression patterns, suggesting specific roles throughout growth. Maintenance of Cx expression before ovulation indicates the involvement of Cx37 and Cx43 in the prolonged meiotic arrest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica De Los Reyes
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Department of Animal Production Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Chile, Casilla 2, Correo 15, La Granja, Santiago, Chile; and Corresponding author.
| | - Jaime Palomino
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Department of Animal Production Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Chile, Casilla 2, Correo 15, La Granja, Santiago, Chile
| | - Carola Gallegos
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Department of Animal Production Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Chile, Casilla 2, Correo 15, La Granja, Santiago, Chile
| | - Roberto Espinoza
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Department of Animal Production Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Chile, Casilla 2, Correo 15, La Granja, Santiago, Chile
| | - Phillipe Dettleff
- Laboratory Inviogen, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Chile, Casilla 2, Correo 15, La Granja, Santiago, Chile
| | - Oscar A Peralta
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Department of Animal Production Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Chile, Casilla 2, Correo 15, La Granja, Santiago, Chile
| | - Victor H Parraguez
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Chile, Casilla 2, Correo 15, La Granja, Santiago, Chile
| | - George Ramirez
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Department of Animal Production Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Chile, Casilla 2, Correo 15, La Granja, Santiago, Chile
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22
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Brązert M, Kranc W, Nawrocki MJ, Sujka-Kordowska P, Konwerska A, Jankowski M, Kocherova I, Celichowski P, Jeseta M, Ożegowska K, Antosik P, Bukowska D, Skowroński MT, Bruska M, Pawelczyk L, Zabel M, Piotrowska-Kempisty H, Nowicki M, Kempisty B. New markers for regulation of transcription and macromolecule metabolic process in porcine oocytes during in vitro maturation. Mol Med Rep 2020; 21:1537-1551. [PMID: 32016446 PMCID: PMC7002967 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2020.10963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2019] [Accepted: 07/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Oocyte maturation is essential for proper fertilization, embryo implantation and early development. While the physiological conditions of these processes are relatively well-known, its exact molecular mechanisms remain widely undiscovered. Oocyte growth, differentiation and maturation are therefore the subject of scientific debate. Precious literature has indicated that the oocyte itself serves a regulatory role in the mechanisms underlying these processes. Hence, the present study performed expression microarrays to analyze the complete transcriptome of porcine oocytes during their in vitro maturation (IVM). Pig material was used for experimentation, as it possesses similarities to the reproductive processes and general genetic proximities of Sus scrofa to human. Oocytes, isolated from the ovaries of slaughtered animals were assessed via the Brilliant Cresyl Blue test and directed to IVM. A number of oocytes were left to be analyzed as the ‘before IVM’ group. Oocyte mRNA was isolated and used for microarray analysis, which was subsequently validated via RT-qPCR. The current study particularly focused on genes belonging to ‘positive regulation of transcription, DNA-dependent’, ‘positive regulation of gene expression’, ‘positive regulation of macromolecule metabolic process’ and ‘positive regulation of transcription from RNA polymerase II promoter’ ontologies. FOS, VEGFA, ESR1, AR, CCND2, EGR2, ENDRA, GJA1, INHBA, IHH, INSR, APP, WWTR1, SMARCA1, NFAT5, SMAD4, MAP3K1, EGR1, RORA, ECE1, NR5A1, KIT, IKZF2, MEF2C, SH3D19, MITF and PSMB4 were all determined to be significantly altered (fold change, >|2|; P<0.05) among these groups, with their downregulation being observed after IVM. Genes with the most altered expressions were analyzed and considered to be potential markers of maturation associated with transcription regulation and macromolecule metabolism process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maciej Brązert
- Division of Infertility and Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Gynecological Oncology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan 60‑535, Poland
| | - Wiesława Kranc
- Department of Anatomy, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan 60‑781, Poland
| | - Mariusz J Nawrocki
- Department of Anatomy, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan 60‑781, Poland
| | - Patrycja Sujka-Kordowska
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan 60‑781, Poland
| | - Aneta Konwerska
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan 60‑781, Poland
| | - Maurycy Jankowski
- Department of Anatomy, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan 60‑781, Poland
| | - Ievgeniia Kocherova
- Department of Anatomy, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan 60‑781, Poland
| | - Piotr Celichowski
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan 60‑781, Poland
| | - Michal Jeseta
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital and Masaryk University, Brno 601‑77, Czech Republic
| | - Katarzyna Ożegowska
- Division of Infertility and Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Gynecological Oncology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan 60‑535, Poland
| | - Paweł Antosik
- Veterinary Center, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Torun 87‑100, Poland
| | - Dorota Bukowska
- Veterinary Center, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Torun 87‑100, Poland
| | - Mariusz T Skowroński
- Veterinary Center, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Torun 87‑100, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Bruska
- Department of Anatomy, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan 60‑781, Poland
| | - Leszek Pawelczyk
- Division of Infertility and Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Gynecological Oncology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan 60‑535, Poland
| | - Maciej Zabel
- Division of Histology and Embryology, Department of Human Morphology and Embryology, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw 50‑368, Poland
| | | | - Michał Nowicki
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan 60‑781, Poland
| | - Bartosz Kempisty
- Department of Anatomy, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan 60‑781, Poland
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23
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Luteinizing Hormone Action in Human Oocyte Maturation and Quality: Signaling Pathways, Regulation, and Clinical Impact. Reprod Sci 2020; 27:1223-1252. [PMID: 32046451 PMCID: PMC7190682 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-019-00137-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2019] [Accepted: 10/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The ovarian follicle luteinizing hormone (LH) signaling molecules that regulate oocyte meiotic maturation have recently been identified. The LH signal reduces preovulatory follicle cyclic nucleotide levels which releases oocytes from the first meiotic arrest. In the ovarian follicle, the LH signal reduces cyclic nucleotide levels via the CNP/NPR2 system, the EGF/EGF receptor network, and follicle/oocyte gap junctions. In the oocyte, reduced cyclic nucleotide levels activate the maturation promoting factor (MPF). The activated MPF induces chromosome segregation and completion of the first and second meiotic divisions. The purpose of this paper is to present an overview of the current understanding of human LH signaling regulation of oocyte meiotic maturation by identifying and integrating the human studies on this topic. We found 89 human studies in the literature that identified 24 LH follicle/oocyte signaling proteins. These studies show that human oocyte meiotic maturation is regulated by the same proteins that regulate animal oocyte meiotic maturation. We also found that these LH signaling pathway molecules regulate human oocyte quality and subsequent embryo quality. Remarkably, in vitro maturation (IVM) prematuration culture (PMC) protocols that manipulate the LH signaling pathway improve human oocyte quality of cultured human oocytes. This knowledge has improved clinical human IVM efficiency which may become a routine alternative ART for some infertile patients.
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24
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Kordus RJ, Hossain A, Corso MC, Chakraborty H, Whitman-Elia GF, LaVoie HA. Cumulus cell pappalysin-1, luteinizing hormone/choriogonadotropin receptor, amphiregulin and hydroxy-delta-5-steroid dehydrogenase, 3 beta- and steroid delta-isomerase 1 mRNA levels associate with oocyte developmental competence and embryo outcomes. J Assist Reprod Genet 2019; 36:1457-1469. [PMID: 31187330 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-019-01489-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2018] [Accepted: 05/16/2019] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To determine whether a selected set of mRNA biomarkers expressed in individual cumulus granulosa cell (CC) masses show association with oocyte developmental competence, embryo ploidy status, and embryo outcomes. METHODS This prospective observational cohort pilot study assessed levels of mRNA biomarkers in 163 individual CC samples from 15 women stimulated in antagonist cycles. Nineteen mRNA biomarker levels were measured by real-time PCR and related to the development of their corresponding individually cultured oocytes and subsequent embryos, embryo ploidy status, and live birth outcomes. RESULTS PAPPA mRNA levels were significantly higher in CC from oocytes that led to euploid embryos resulting in live births and aneuploid embryos compared to immature oocytes by ANOVA. LHCGR mRNA levels were significantly higher in CC of oocytes resulting in embryos associated with live birth compared to immature oocytes and oocytes resulting in arrested embryos by ANOVA. Using a general linearized mixed model to assess ploidy status, CC HSD3B mRNA levels in oocytes producing euploid embryos were significantly lower than other oocyte outcomes, collectively. When transferred euploid embryos outcomes were analyzed by ANOVA, AREG mRNA levels were significantly lower and PAPPA mRNA levels significantly higher in CC from oocytes that produced live births compared to transferred embryos that did not form a pregnancy. CONCLUSIONS Collectively, PAPPA, LHCGR, and AREG mRNA levels in CC may be able to identify oocytes with the best odds of resulting in a live birth, and HSD3B1 mRNA levels may be able to identify oocytes capable of producing euploid embryos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard J Kordus
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, SC, USA
- Fertility Center of the Carolinas, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Prisma Health - Upstate, Greenville, SC, USA
| | - Akhtar Hossain
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Michael C Corso
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, SC, USA
| | | | - Gail F Whitman-Elia
- Advanced Fertility and Reproductive Endocrinology Institute, LLC, Columbia, SC, USA
- Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Holly A LaVoie
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, SC, USA.
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Protein oligomerization is the biochemical process highly up-regulated in porcine oocytes before in vitro maturation (IVM). ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019. [DOI: 10.2478/acb-2018-0025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
A wide variety of mechanisms controlling oligomerization are observed. The dynamic nature of protein oligomerization is important for bioactivity control. The oocyte must undergo a series of changes to become a mature form before it can fully participate in the processes associated with its function as a female gamete. The growth of oocytes in the follicular environment is accompanied by surrounding somatic cumulus (CCs) and granulosa cells (GCs). It has been shown that oocytes tested before and after in vitro maturation (IVM) differ significantly in the transcriptomic and proteomic profiles. The aim of this study was to determine new proteomic markers for the oligomerization of porcine oocyte proteins that are associated with cell maturation competence. The Affymetrix microarray assay was performed to examine the gene expression profile associated with protein oligomerization in oocytes before and after IVM. In total, 12258 different transcriptomes were analyzed, of which 419 genes with lower expression in oocytes after IVM. We found 9 genes: GJA1, VCP, JUP, MIF, MAP3K1, INSR, ANGPTL4, EIF2AK3, DECR1, which were significantly down-regulated in oocytes after IVM (in vitro group) compared to oocytes analyzed before IVM (in vivo group). The higher expression of genes involved in the oligomerization of the protein before IVM indicates that they can be recognized as important markers of biological activation of proteins necessary for the further growth and development of pig embryos.
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26
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Cui L, Shen J, Fang L, Mao X, Wang H, Ye Y. Endothelin-1 promotes human germinal vesicle-stage oocyte maturation by downregulating connexin-26 expression in cumulus cells. Mol Hum Reprod 2019; 24:27-36. [PMID: 29126233 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gax058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2017] [Accepted: 11/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Does endothelin-1 (ET-1) promote human oocyte maturation and by what mechanism? SUMMARY ANSWER Addition of ET-1 to the medium in which human germinal vesicle (GV)-stage immature oocytes are cultured enhances the GV breakdown (GVBD) rate; the resumption of meiosis may be initiated by ET-1 downregulating the expression of connexin-26 (Cx26) in cumulus cells via endothelin receptor type B (ETRB), leading to decreased cAMP levels in the oocyte. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY The paracrine factor ET-1 is secreted by ovarian somatic cells in pre-ovulatory follicles and regulates oocyte maturation in mice. Connexins, or gap junction proteins, form intercellular membrane channels that play important roles in the resumption of meiosis. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This laboratory study was conducted over a 1-year period. The effects of ET-1 on meiotic resumption were evaluated in human GV-stage cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs; 70 oocytes/group). The transcriptome profiles of ET-1-treated or untreated cumulus cells were compared to explore the possible mechanisms by which ET-1 may regulate oocyte maturation. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS The ET-1, ETRA and ETRB expression levels in human cumulus cells from oocytes at different stages of maturation were evaluated using real-time quantitative PCR. Human GV-stage COCs collected from patients undergoing IVF at a university-affiliated infertility centre were cultured with or without ET-1, and cumulus cells were subsequently denuded using hyaluronidase and cultured in α-MEM. A GeneChip® Human Transcriptome Array was applied to explore differences in the whole-genome transcriptome profiles of cumulus cells treated with or without ET-1. Real-time quantitative PCR and Western blotting were used respectively to examine Cx26 mRNA and protein levels in cumulus cells. Changes in cAMP levels in both oocytes and cumulus cells after ET-1 treatment were measured using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Cumulus cells from MII-stage oocytes exhibited upregulated ET-1 expression, compared to those from GV-stage oocytes. The addition of ET-1 to the culture medium enhanced the GVBD rate of cumulus cell-enclosed human oocytes. Whole-genome transcriptome microarray analyses revealed significantly downregulated Cx26 expression in cumulus cells after ET-1 treatment, and this action was blocked by an ETRB antagonist. The involvement of Cx26 was further supported by the finding that ET-1 treatment led to decreased cAMP levels in oocytes but increased cAMP levels in cumulus cells. LARGE SCALE DATA Microarray data are published in the GEO database (GSE97684). LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The heterogeneity of human COCs collected from patients undergoing IVF might affect the maturation results in vitro. Although we focused on the effects of ET-1 on human oocyte maturation in the present study, mammalian oocyte maturation is a complicated process involving many endocrine and paracrine factors. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Our present study suggests that in vitro, human GV-stage oocyte maturation could be enhanced by adding ET-1 to the culture medium. In the present study, we explored the molecular mechanisms by which ET-1 initiates the resumption of meiosis and demonstrated that ET-1 promotes oocyte maturation by downregulating the expression of the gap junction protein Cx26 in cumulus cells. These results expand our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying mammalian oocyte maturation and provide a basis for better in-vitro maturation strategies. STUDY FUNDING AND COMPETING INTERESTS This work was supported by grants from the China Natural Science Foundation (Grant Nos. 81170567 and 81370761). The authors declare that they have no conflicts of interest associated with this manuscript.
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Affiliation(s)
- Long Cui
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310006, China
| | - Jiajie Shen
- Key laboratory, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310006, China
| | - Li Fang
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310006, China
| | - Xiaodan Mao
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310006, China
| | - Hanzhi Wang
- Key laboratory, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310006, China
| | - Yinghui Ye
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310006, China
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Chermuła B, Brązert M, Jeseta M, Ożegowska K, Sujka-Kordowska P, Konwerska A, Bryja A, Kranc W, Jankowski M, Nawrocki MJ, Kocherova I, Celichowski P, Borowiec B, Popis M, Budna-Tukan J, Antosik P, Bukowska D, Brussow KP, Pawelczyk L, Bruska M, Zabel M, Nowicki M, Kempisty B. The Unique Mechanisms of Cellular Proliferation, Migration and Apoptosis are Regulated through Oocyte Maturational Development-A Complete Transcriptomic and Histochemical Study. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 20:ijms20010084. [PMID: 30587792 PMCID: PMC6337548 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20010084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2018] [Revised: 12/06/2018] [Accepted: 12/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The growth and development of oocyte affect the functional activities of the surrounding somatic cells. These cells are regulated by various types of hormones, proteins, metabolites, and regulatory molecules through gap communication, ultimately leading to the development and maturation of oocytes. The close association between somatic cells and oocytes, which together form the cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs), and their bi-directional communication are crucial for the acquisition of developmental competences by the oocyte. In this study, oocytes were extracted from the ovaries obtained from crossbred landrace gilts and subjected to in vitro maturation. RNA isolated from those oocytes was used for the subsequent microarray analysis. The data obtained shows, for the first time, variable levels of gene expression (fold changes higher than |2| and adjusted p-value < 0.05) belonging to four ontological groups: regulation of cell proliferation (GO:0042127), regulation of cell migration (GO:0030334), and regulation of programmed cell death (GO:0043067) that can be used together as proliferation, migration or apoptosis markers. We have identified several genes of porcine oocytes (ID2, VEGFA, BTG2, ESR1, CCND2, EDNRA, ANGPTL4, TGFBR3, GJA1, LAMA2, KIT, TPM1, VCP, GRID2, MEF2C, RPS3A, PLD1, BTG3, CD47, MITF), whose expression after in vitro maturation (IVM) is downregulated with different degrees. Our results may be helpful in further elucidating the molecular basis and functional significance of a number of gene markers associated with the processes of migration, proliferation and angiogenesis occurring in COCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Błażej Chermuła
- Division of Infertility and Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Gynecological Oncology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-535 Poznań, Poland.
| | - Maciej Brązert
- Division of Infertility and Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Gynecological Oncology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-535 Poznań, Poland.
| | - Michal Jeseta
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital and Masaryk University, 601 77 Brno, Czech Republic.
| | - Katarzyna Ożegowska
- Division of Infertility and Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Gynecological Oncology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-535 Poznań, Poland.
| | - Patrycja Sujka-Kordowska
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-781 Poznań, Poland.
| | - Aneta Konwerska
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-781 Poznań, Poland.
| | - Artur Bryja
- Department of Anatomy, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-781 Poznań, Poland.
| | - Wiesława Kranc
- Department of Anatomy, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-781 Poznań, Poland.
| | - Maurycy Jankowski
- Department of Anatomy, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-781 Poznań, Poland.
| | - Mariusz J Nawrocki
- Department of Anatomy, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-781 Poznań, Poland.
| | - Ievgeniia Kocherova
- Department of Anatomy, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-781 Poznań, Poland.
| | - Piotr Celichowski
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-781 Poznań, Poland.
| | - Blanka Borowiec
- Department of Anatomy, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-781 Poznań, Poland.
| | - Małgorzata Popis
- Department of Anatomy, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-781 Poznań, Poland.
| | - Joanna Budna-Tukan
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-781 Poznań, Poland.
| | - Paweł Antosik
- Veterinary Center, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, 87-100 Toruń, Poland.
| | - Dorota Bukowska
- Veterinary Center, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, 87-100 Toruń, Poland.
| | - Klaus P Brussow
- Veterinary Center, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, 87-100 Toruń, Poland.
| | - Leszek Pawelczyk
- Division of Infertility and Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Gynecological Oncology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-535 Poznań, Poland.
| | - Małgorzata Bruska
- Department of Anatomy, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-781 Poznań, Poland.
| | - Maciej Zabel
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Wroclaw University of Medical Sciences, 50-368 Wrocław, Poland.
- Division of Anatomy and Histology, University of Zielona Gora, 65-046 Zielona Góra, Poland.
| | - Michał Nowicki
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-781 Poznań, Poland.
| | - Bartosz Kempisty
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital and Masaryk University, 601 77 Brno, Czech Republic.
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-781 Poznań, Poland.
- Department of Anatomy, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-781 Poznań, Poland.
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28
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Michalovic L, Currin L, Gutierrez K, Bellefleur A, Glanzner WG, Schuermann Y, Macedo MP, Bohrer RC, Dicks N, Lopez R, Taibi M, Madogwe E, St‐Yves A, Mondadori RG, Gourdon J, Vigneault C, Baldassarre H, Bordignon V. Granulosa cells of prepubertal cattle respond to gonadotropin signaling and upregulate genes that promote follicular growth and prevent cell apoptosis. Mol Reprod Dev 2018; 85:909-920. [DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2018] [Accepted: 10/05/2018] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Michalovic
- Department of Animal ScienceMcGill UniversitySainte‐Anne‐de‐Bellevue Quebec Canada
| | - Luke Currin
- Department of Animal ScienceMcGill UniversitySainte‐Anne‐de‐Bellevue Quebec Canada
| | - Karina Gutierrez
- Department of Animal ScienceMcGill UniversitySainte‐Anne‐de‐Bellevue Quebec Canada
| | | | - Werner G. Glanzner
- Department of Animal ScienceMcGill UniversitySainte‐Anne‐de‐Bellevue Quebec Canada
| | - Yasmin Schuermann
- Department of Animal ScienceMcGill UniversitySainte‐Anne‐de‐Bellevue Quebec Canada
| | - Mariana P. Macedo
- Department of Animal ScienceMcGill UniversitySainte‐Anne‐de‐Bellevue Quebec Canada
| | - Rodrigo C. Bohrer
- Department of Animal ScienceMcGill UniversitySainte‐Anne‐de‐Bellevue Quebec Canada
| | - Naomi Dicks
- Department of Animal ScienceMcGill UniversitySainte‐Anne‐de‐Bellevue Quebec Canada
| | - Rosalba Lopez
- Department of Animal ScienceMcGill UniversitySainte‐Anne‐de‐Bellevue Quebec Canada
| | - Milena Taibi
- Department of Animal ScienceMcGill UniversitySainte‐Anne‐de‐Bellevue Quebec Canada
| | - Ejimedo Madogwe
- Department of Animal ScienceMcGill UniversitySainte‐Anne‐de‐Bellevue Quebec Canada
| | - Audrey St‐Yves
- Department of Animal ScienceMcGill UniversitySainte‐Anne‐de‐Bellevue Quebec Canada
| | - Rafael G. Mondadori
- Department of Animal ScienceMcGill UniversitySainte‐Anne‐de‐Bellevue Quebec Canada
| | - Jim Gourdon
- Department of Animal ScienceMcGill UniversitySainte‐Anne‐de‐Bellevue Quebec Canada
- Comparative Medicine and Animal Resources Centre, McGill UniversityMontreal Quebec Canada
| | | | - Hernan Baldassarre
- Department of Animal ScienceMcGill UniversitySainte‐Anne‐de‐Bellevue Quebec Canada
| | - Vilceu Bordignon
- Department of Animal ScienceMcGill UniversitySainte‐Anne‐de‐Bellevue Quebec Canada
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29
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Read CC, Willhelm G, Dyce PW. Connexin 43 coupling in bovine cumulus cells, during the follicular growth phase, and its relationship to in vitro embryo outcomes. Mol Reprod Dev 2018; 85:579-589. [PMID: 29697878 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.22993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2017] [Accepted: 04/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Gap junctional coupling between cumulus cells is required for oocytes to reach developmental competence. Multiple connexins, which form these gap junctions, have been found within the ovarian follicles of several species including bovine. The aim of this study was to determine the role of connexin 43 (CX43) and its relationship to embryo development, after in vitro fertilization (IVF). Cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) were obtained from abattoir sourced, mixed breed, bovine ovaries. COCs were isolated from follicles ranging from 2 to 5 mm in size, representing the preselected follicle pool. Immediately after isolation, two cumulus cell biopsies were collected and stored for analysis pending determination of developmental outcomes. Using in vitro procedures, COCs were individually matured, fertilized, and cultured to the blastocyst stage. Biopsies were grouped as originating from COCs that arrested at the two-cell stage (low developmental competence [LDC]) or having developed to the late morula/blastocyst stage (high developmental competence [HDC]), after IVF and embryo culture. The expression level of CX43 was found to be significantly higher in cumulus cells from COCs that had an HDC when compared with those that had an LDC. Moreover, the gap junctional intercellular coupling rate was significantly higher in cumulus from COCs deemed to have an HDC. Significantly higher expression of the cumulus health markers luteinizing hormone receptor and cytochrome p450 19A1 was found in the cumulus originating from oocytes with HDC, suggesting that this system may provide a mechanism for noninvasively testing for oocyte health in preselected bovine follicles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Casey C Read
- Department of Animal Sciences, College of Agriculture, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama
| | - Gabby Willhelm
- Department of Animal Sciences, College of Agriculture, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama
| | - Paul W Dyce
- Department of Animal Sciences, College of Agriculture, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama
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30
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Bachelot A, Gilleron J, Meduri G, Guberto M, Dulon J, Boucherie S, Touraine P, Misrahi M. A common African variant of human connexin 37 is associated with Caucasian primary ovarian insufficiency and has a deleterious effect in vitro. Int J Mol Med 2018; 41:640-648. [PMID: 29207017 PMCID: PMC5752242 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2017.3257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2017] [Accepted: 10/20/2017] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Folliculogenesis requires communication between granulosa cells and oocytes, mediated by connexin-based gap junctions. Connexin 37 (Cx37)-deficient female mice are infertile. The present study assessed Cx37 deficiency in patients with primary ovarian insufficiency (POI). A candidate gene study was performed in patients and controls from the National Genotyping Center (Evry, France) including 58 Caucasian patients with idiopathic isolated POI and 142 Caucasian controls. Direct genomic sequencing of the coding regions of the GJA4 gene (encoding Cx37) was performed with the aim to identify a deleterious variant associated with POI and absent in ethnically matched controls. A single Cx37 variant absent in the control population was identified, namely a c.946G>A heterozygous substitution leading to a p.Gly316Ser variant that was present in two POI patients. This variant was absent in all Caucasian controls from various databases, and has been observed exclusively in African populations. This variant was identified to have a dominant negative effect in HeLa cells in vitro to alter connexon function (by 67.2±7.17%), as determined by Gap-fluorescence recovery after photobleaching. The alteration principally resulted from a decrease of cell surface connexons due to altered trafficking (by 47.73±8.59%). In marked contrast to this observation, a p.Pro258Ser variant frequent in all ethnic populations in databases had no functional effect in vitro. In conclusion, the present study reported on a Cx37 variant in two Caucasian POI patients, which was absent in control Caucasian populations, and which had a deleterious effect in vitro. It is therefore suggested that in the genetic context of the Caucasian population, this variant may contribute to POI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Bachelot
- AP-HP, Department of Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Pitié-Salpêtrière Hospital, Reference Center for Rare Endocrine Diseases of Growth, Reference Center for Rare Gynecological Pathologies
- University Pierre and Marie Curie, University Paris 6, F-75013 Paris
| | - Jerome Gilleron
- National Institute of Health and Medical Research INSERM U1065 - University of Nice-Sophia Antipolis, Mediterranean Center for Molecular Medicine C3M, F-06000 Nice
| | - Geri Meduri
- National Institute of Health and Medical Research INSERM U1195
| | - Mihelai Guberto
- University Paris-Sud, University Paris Saclay, Medical Faculty Paris-Sud, Bicêtre Hospital, F-94275 Le Kremlin Bicêtre
| | - Jerome Dulon
- AP-HP, Department of Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Pitié-Salpêtrière Hospital, Reference Center for Rare Endocrine Diseases of Growth, Reference Center for Rare Gynecological Pathologies
| | - Sylviane Boucherie
- National Institute of Health and Medical Research UMR-S 757 INSERM, University Paris-Sud, F-91400 Orsay, France
| | - Philippe Touraine
- AP-HP, Department of Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Pitié-Salpêtrière Hospital, Reference Center for Rare Endocrine Diseases of Growth, Reference Center for Rare Gynecological Pathologies
- University Pierre and Marie Curie, University Paris 6, F-75013 Paris
| | - Micheline Misrahi
- University Paris-Sud, University Paris Saclay, Medical Faculty Paris-Sud, Bicêtre Hospital, F-94275 Le Kremlin Bicêtre
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31
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Wei X, Sijie Y, Weibin Z, Qing X, Jie Z, Xiangdong Z. Cytoskeleton Genes Expression and Survival Rate Comparison Between Immature and Mature Yak Oocyte After OPS Vitrification. Anim Biotechnol 2017; 29:247-251. [DOI: 10.1080/10495398.2017.1369429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Xia Wei
- College of Life Science and Technology, Southwest University for Nationalities, Chengdu, China
| | - Ye Sijie
- College of Life Science and Technology, Southwest University for Nationalities, Chengdu, China
| | - Zeng Weibin
- College of Animal Sciences and Technology, Shihezi University, Shihezi, Xinjiang, China
| | - Xu Qing
- College of Life Science and Technology, Southwest University for Nationalities, Chengdu, China
| | - Zheng Jie
- College of Life Science and Technology, Southwest University for Nationalities, Chengdu, China
| | - Zi Xiangdong
- College of Life Science and Technology, Southwest University for Nationalities, Chengdu, China
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32
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Budna J, Bryja A, Celichowski P, Kahan R, Kranc W, Ciesiółka S, Rybska M, Borys S, Jeseta M, Bukowska D, Antosik P, Brüssow KP, Bruska M, Nowicki M, Zabel M, Kempisty B. Genes of cellular components of morphogenesis in porcine oocytes before and after IVM. Reproduction 2017; 154:535-545. [PMID: 28733345 DOI: 10.1530/rep-17-0367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2017] [Revised: 07/04/2017] [Accepted: 07/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Proper oocyte maturation in mammals produces an oocyte capable of monospermic fertilization and embryo preimplantation. The cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs), surrounding an oocyte, play a significant role in oocyte maturation. During this process, when the COCs undergo cumulus expansion wherein tightly compact cumulus cells (CCs) form a dispersed structure, permanent biochemical and molecular modifications occur in the maturing oocytes, indicating that the gene expression between immature and mature oocytes differs significantly. This study focuses on the genes responsible for the cellular components of morphogenesis within the developing oocyte. Brilliant cresyl blue (BCB) was used to determine the developmental capability of porcine oocytes. The immature oocytes (GV stage) were compared with matured oocytes (MII stage), using microarray and qRT-PCR analysis to track changes in the genetic expression profile of transcriptome genes. The data showed substantial upregulation of genes influencing oocyte's morphology, cellular migration and adhesion, intracellular communication, as well as plasticity of nervous system. Conversely, downregulation involved genes related to microtubule reorganization, regulation of adhesion, proliferation, migration and cell differentiation processes in oocytes. This suggests that most genes recruited in morphogenesis in porcine oocyte in vitro, may have cellular maturational capability, since they have a higher level of expression before the oocyte's matured form. It shows the process of oocyte maturation and developmental capacity is orchestrated by significant cellular modifications during morphogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Budna
- Department of Histology and EmbryologyPoznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Artur Bryja
- Department of AnatomyPoznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Piotr Celichowski
- Department of Histology and EmbryologyPoznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Rotem Kahan
- Department of AnatomyPoznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Wiesława Kranc
- Department of AnatomyPoznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Sylwia Ciesiółka
- Department of Histology and EmbryologyPoznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Marta Rybska
- Institute of Veterinary SciencesPoznan University of Life Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Sylwia Borys
- Department of AnatomyPoznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Michal Jeseta
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyUniversity Hospital and Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Dorota Bukowska
- Institute of Veterinary SciencesPoznan University of Life Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Paweł Antosik
- Institute of Veterinary SciencesPoznan University of Life Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Klaus P Brüssow
- Department of AnatomyPoznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Bruska
- Department of AnatomyPoznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Michał Nowicki
- Department of Histology and EmbryologyPoznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Maciej Zabel
- Department of Histology and EmbryologyPoznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland.,Department of Histology and EmbryologyWroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Bartosz Kempisty
- Department of Histology and EmbryologyPoznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland .,Department of AnatomyPoznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland.,Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyUniversity Hospital and Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
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33
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Meda P. Gap junction proteins are key drivers of endocrine function. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-BIOMEMBRANES 2017; 1860:124-140. [PMID: 28284720 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamem.2017.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2016] [Revised: 03/03/2017] [Accepted: 03/06/2017] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
It has long been known that the main secretory cells of exocrine and endocrine glands are connected by gap junctions, made by a variety of connexin species that ensure their electrical and metabolic coupling. Experiments in culture systems and animal models have since provided increasing evidence that connexin signaling contributes to control the biosynthesis and release of secretory products, as well as to the life and death of secretory cells. More recently, genetic studies have further provided the first lines of evidence that connexins also control the function of human glands, which are central to the pathogenesis of major endocrine diseases. Here, we summarize the recent information gathered on connexin signaling in these systems, since the last reviews on the topic, with particular regard to the pancreatic beta cells which produce insulin, and the renal cells which produce renin. These cells are keys to the development of various forms of diabetes and hypertension, respectively, and combine to account for the exploding, worldwide prevalence of the metabolic syndrome. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Gap Junction Proteins edited by Jean Claude Herve.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Meda
- Department of Cell Physiology and Metabolism, University of Geneva Medical School, Switzerland.
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34
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Sharma RP, Schuhmacher M, Kumar V. Review on crosstalk and common mechanisms of endocrine disruptors: Scaffolding to improve PBPK/PD model of EDC mixture. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2017; 99:1-14. [PMID: 27697394 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2016.09.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2016] [Revised: 09/18/2016] [Accepted: 09/19/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Endocrine disruptor compounds (EDCs) are environment chemicals that cause harmful effects through multiple mechanisms, interfering with hormone system resulting in alteration of homeostasis, reproduction and developmental effect. Many of these EDCs have concurrent exposure with crosstalk and common mechanisms which may lead to dynamic interactions. To carry out risk assessment of EDCs' mixture, it is important to know the detailed toxic pathway, crosstalk of receptor and other factors like critical window of exposure. In this review, we summarize the major mechanism of actions of EDCs with the different/same target organs interfering with the same/different class of hormone by altering their synthesis, metabolism, binding and cellular action. To show the impact of EDCs on life stage development, a case study on female fertility affecting germ cell is illustrated. Based on this summarized discussion, major groups of EDCs are classified based on their target organ, mode of action and potential risk. Finally, a conceptual model of pharmacodynamic interaction is proposed to integrate the crosstalk and common mechanisms that modulate estrogen into the predictive mixture dosimetry model with dynamic interaction of mixture. This review will provide new insight for EDCs' risk assessment and can be used to develop next generation PBPK/PD models for EDCs' mixture analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raju Prasad Sharma
- Center of Environmental Food and Toxicological Technology (TecnATox), Departament d'Enginyeria Química, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Tarragona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Marta Schuhmacher
- Center of Environmental Food and Toxicological Technology (TecnATox), Departament d'Enginyeria Química, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Tarragona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Vikas Kumar
- Center of Environmental Food and Toxicological Technology (TecnATox), Departament d'Enginyeria Química, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Tarragona, Catalonia, Spain.
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35
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Campen KA, McNatty KP, Pitman JL. A protective role of cumulus cells after short-term exposure of rat cumulus cell-oocyte complexes to lifestyle or environmental contaminants. Reprod Toxicol 2017; 69:19-33. [PMID: 28087314 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2017.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2016] [Accepted: 01/05/2017] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Ovarian follicular fluid provides a potential reservoir for exogenous compounds that may adversely affect oocyte quality. This study examined the effects of common lifestyle and environmental contaminants, namely bisphenol-A (BPA), caffeine, 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), nicotine and Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) on gap junction genes (Gja1, Gja4) and proteins (GJA1), glucose metabolism genes (Gfpt1, Pfkp) and oocyte growth factor genes (Bmp15, Gdf9), as well as gap junction transfer rate, in rat cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs). In vitro exposure to MDMA and THC accelerated the timing of meiotic resumption and all contaminants altered either gap junction gene expression (BPA, caffeine, MDMA and THC) or transfer rate (BPA and nicotine). In vitro exposure of COCs to MDMA also altered glucose metabolism genes. Overall, oocyte-derived genes were largely unaffected following exposure to any contaminant. In summary, the impact of short-term exposure to lifestyle and environmental contaminants on oocyte function may be diminished due to protective properties of cumulus cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly A Campen
- School of Biological Sciences, Victoria University of Wellington, PO Box 600, Wellington 6140, New Zealand
| | - Kenneth P McNatty
- School of Biological Sciences, Victoria University of Wellington, PO Box 600, Wellington 6140, New Zealand
| | - Janet L Pitman
- School of Biological Sciences, Victoria University of Wellington, PO Box 600, Wellington 6140, New Zealand.
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36
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Quantitative patterns of expression of gap junction genes during in vivo or in vitro development of ovarian follicles in sheep. Small Rumin Res 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2016.08.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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37
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Standard human chorionic gonadotropin versus double trigger for final oocyte maturation results in different granulosa cells gene expressions: a pilot study. Fertil Steril 2016; 106:653-659.e1. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2016.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2016] [Revised: 06/01/2016] [Accepted: 06/01/2016] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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38
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Santos JD, Batista RI, Magalhães LC, Paula Jr. AR, Souza SS, Salamone DF, Bhat MH, Teixeira DI, Freitas VJ, Melo LM. Overexpression of hyaluronan synthase 2 and gonadotropin receptors in cumulus cells of goats subjected to one-shot eCG/FSH hormonal treatment for ovarian stimulation. Anim Reprod Sci 2016; 170:15-24. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2016.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2015] [Revised: 03/06/2016] [Accepted: 03/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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39
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Morphometric characteristics of preantral and antral follicles and expression of factors involved in folliculogenesis in ovaries of adult baboons (Papio anubis). J Assist Reprod Genet 2016; 33:617-626. [PMID: 26945754 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-016-0681-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2015] [Accepted: 02/22/2016] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Baboons are commonly utilized as an animal model for studies of human reproduction. However, folliculogenesis in this species has not been fully documented. The aim of this study was to assess follicle morphometry and expression of essential proteins involved in folliculogenesis in baboons. METHODS Ovaries were recovered from four adult baboons and processed for histological evaluation and immunohistochemical analyses. Follicle proportion, follicle and oocyte diameter, theca layer thickness, number of granulosa cells, and follicle density were calculated. Immunohistochemical staining was also carried out for connexin 43 (Cx43), aromatase, and zona pellucida 3 (ZP3). RESULTS A total of 2221 follicles were counted and measured. Proportions of primordial, primary, secondary, small antral, and large antral follicles were 49, 26, 23, 1, and 1 %, respectively. The increase in follicle diameter was due not only to the increase in oocyte diameter but also to granulosa cell proliferation. Almost all antral follicles were positive for Cx43 (89.8 %), aromatase (84.8 %), and ZP3 (100 %). Most secondary follicles were positive for Cx43 (65 %) and ZP3 (64.5 %), and some primary follicles were positive only for Cx43. No primordial follicles stained positive in any of these immunohistochemical analyses. Only antral follicles showed aromatase activity. CONCLUSIONS On the basis of these results, we can conclude that folliculogenesis in baboons appears to be similar to that in humans, and this animal therefore constitutes a valuable model.
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Laird DW, Naus CC. Gerald M. Kidder - bridging the gap in cell and developmental biology. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2016; 50:1-3. [PMID: 26940063 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2016.02.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Dale W Laird
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada
| | - Christian C Naus
- Department of Cellular & Physiological Sciences, Life Science Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
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Li SH, Lin MH, Hwu YM, Lu CH, Yeh LY, Chen YJ, Lee RKK. Correlation of cumulus gene expression of GJA1, PRSS35, PTX3, and SERPINE2 with oocyte maturation, fertilization, and embryo development. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2015; 13:93. [PMID: 26276571 PMCID: PMC4537566 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-015-0091-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2015] [Accepted: 08/06/2015] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND GJA1 and PTX3 were proposed as gene markers for oocyte and embryo developmental competence, while SERPINE2 was reported to be associated with pregnancy outcome. PRSS35, which is exclusively expressed in the ovary, may be correlated with oocyte competence. This study was conducted to evaluate the correlation of cumulus GJA1, PRSS35, PTX3, and SERPINE2 gene expression levels with oocyte maturation, fertilization, and early embryo development. METHODS In total, 308 cumulus cell samples separated from individual cumulus-oocyte complex were obtained from 40 patients undergoing the intracytoplasmic sperm injection treatment procedure. Gene expression levels (mRNA levels) in cumulus cells were assessed using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. RESULTS Gene expression levels of GJA1 and SERPINE2 in cumulus cells surrounding mature oocytes were significantly lower than those in cumulus cells enclosing immature oocytes. PRSS35 mRNA levels in cumulus cells of fertilized oocytes were significantly higher than those in cumulus cells of unfertilized oocytes. GJA1 and SERPINE2 seemed to express higher mRNA levels, while PRSS35 showed lower expression in cumulus cells of oocytes that developed into embryos with good morphology; however, the expression levels of all three genes and PTX3 showed no significant differences between embryos with good or poor morphology. CONCLUSIONS GJA1 and SERPINE2 represent potential gene markers associated with oocyte maturation. PRSS35 may be correlated with oocyte fertilization potential. However, GJA1, PRSS35, PTX3, and SERPINE2 may not be considered as marker genes for predicting embryo morphology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheng-Hsiang Li
- Department of Medical Research, Mackay Memorial Hospital, Tamsui District, New Taipei City, 251, Taiwan.
- Mackay Junior College of Medicine, Nursing, and Management, Beitou District, Taipei City, 112, Taiwan.
- Graduate Institute of Biochemical and Biomedical Engineering, National Taipei University of Technology, Taipei City, 106, Taiwan.
| | - Ming-Huei Lin
- Department of Medical Research, Mackay Memorial Hospital, Tamsui District, New Taipei City, 251, Taiwan.
- Mackay Junior College of Medicine, Nursing, and Management, Beitou District, Taipei City, 112, Taiwan.
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Mackay Memorial Hospital, Taipei City, 104, Taiwan.
| | - Yuh-Ming Hwu
- Department of Medical Research, Mackay Memorial Hospital, Tamsui District, New Taipei City, 251, Taiwan.
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Mackay Memorial Hospital, Taipei City, 104, Taiwan.
- Mackay Medical College, Sanzhi District, New Taipei City, 252, Taiwan.
| | - Chung-Hao Lu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Mackay Memorial Hospital, Taipei City, 104, Taiwan.
| | - Ling-Yu Yeh
- Department of Medical Research, Mackay Memorial Hospital, Tamsui District, New Taipei City, 251, Taiwan.
| | - Ying-Jie Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Mackay Memorial Hospital, Taipei City, 104, Taiwan.
| | - Robert Kuo-Kuang Lee
- Department of Medical Research, Mackay Memorial Hospital, Tamsui District, New Taipei City, 251, Taiwan.
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Mackay Memorial Hospital, Taipei City, 104, Taiwan.
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei City, 110, Taiwan.
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Kibschull M, Gellhaus A, Carette D, Segretain D, Pointis G, Gilleron J. Physiological roles of connexins and pannexins in reproductive organs. Cell Mol Life Sci 2015; 72:2879-98. [PMID: 26100514 PMCID: PMC11114083 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-015-1965-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2015] [Accepted: 06/11/2015] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Reproductive organs are complex and well-structured tissues essential to perpetuate the species. In mammals, the male and female reproductive organs vary on their organization, morphology and function. Connectivity between cells in such tissues plays pivotal roles in organogenesis and tissue functions through the regulation of cellular proliferation, migration, differentiation and apoptosis. Connexins and pannexins can be seen as major regulators of these physiological processes. In the present review, we assembled several lines of evidence demonstrating that these two families of proteins are essential for male and female reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark Kibschull
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, 25 Orde Street, Toronto, M5T 3H7 Canada
| | - Alexandra Gellhaus
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University of Duisburg-Essen, Hufelandstrasse 55, 45122 Essen, Germany
| | - Diane Carette
- UMR S1147, University Paris Descartes, 45 rue des Saints-Pères, 75006 Paris, France
- University of Versailles, 78035 Saint Quentin, France
- INSERM U 1065, University of Nice Sophia-Antipolis, 151 Route Saint-Antoine de Ginestière, BP 2 3194, 06204 Nice Cedex 3, France
| | - Dominique Segretain
- UMR S1147, University Paris Descartes, 45 rue des Saints-Pères, 75006 Paris, France
- University of Versailles, 78035 Saint Quentin, France
| | - Georges Pointis
- INSERM U 1065, University of Nice Sophia-Antipolis, 151 Route Saint-Antoine de Ginestière, BP 2 3194, 06204 Nice Cedex 3, France
| | - Jerome Gilleron
- INSERM U 1065, University of Nice Sophia-Antipolis, 151 Route Saint-Antoine de Ginestière, BP 2 3194, 06204 Nice Cedex 3, France
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Best MW, Wu J, Pauli SA, Kane MA, Pierzchalski K, Session DR, Woods DC, Shang W, Taylor RN, Sidell N. A role for retinoids in human oocyte fertilization: regulation of connexin 43 by retinoic acid in cumulus granulosa cells. Mol Hum Reprod 2015; 21:527-34. [PMID: 25877907 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gav017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2014] [Accepted: 04/08/2015] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinoids are essential for ovarian steroid production and oocyte maturation in mammals. Oocyte competency is known to positively correlate with efficient gap junction intercellular communication (GJIC) among granulosa cells in the cumulus-oocyte complex. Connexin 43 (C x 43) is the main subunit of gap junction channels in human cumulus granulosa cells (CGC) and is regulated by all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) in other hormone responsive cell types. The objectives of this study were to quantify retinoid levels in human CGC obtained during IVF oocyte retrievals, to investigate the potential relationship between CGC ATRA levels and successful oocyte fertilization, and to determine the effects of ATRA on C x 43 protein expression in CGC. Results showed that CGC cultures actively metabolize retinol to produce ATRA. Grouped according to fertilization rate tertiles, mean ATRA levels were 2-fold higher in pooled CGC from women in the highest versus the lowest tertile (P < 0.05). ATRA induced a rapid dephosphorylation of C x 43 in CGC and granulosa cell line (KGN) cultures resulting in a >2-fold increase in the expression of the functional non-phosphorylated (P0) species (P < 0.02). Similar enhancement of P0 by ATRA was shown in CGC and KGN cultures co-treated with LH or hCG which, by themselves, enhanced the protein levels of C x 43 without altering its phosphorylation profile. Correspondingly, the combination of ATRA+hCG treatment of KGN caused a significant increase in GJIC compared with single agent treatments (P < 0.025) and a doubling of GJIC from that seen in untreated cells (P < 0.01). These findings indicate that CGC are a primary site of retinoid uptake and ATRA biosynthesis. Regulation of C x 43 by ATRA may serve an important role in folliculogenesis, development of oocyte competency, and successful fertilization by increasing GJIC in CGC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica W Best
- Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Juanjuan Wu
- Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Samuel A Pauli
- Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Maureen A Kane
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Maryland School of Pharmacy, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Keely Pierzchalski
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Maryland School of Pharmacy, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Donna R Session
- Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Dori C Woods
- Vincent Center for Reproductive Biology, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Weirong Shang
- Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Robert N Taylor
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Neil Sidell
- Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
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Winterhager E, Kidder GM. Gap junction connexins in female reproductive organs: implications for women's reproductive health. Hum Reprod Update 2015; 21:340-52. [PMID: 25667189 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmv007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2014] [Accepted: 01/20/2015] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Connexins comprise a family of ~20 proteins that form intercellular membrane channels (gap junction channels) providing a direct route for metabolites and signalling molecules to pass between cells. This review provides a critical analysis of the evidence for essential roles of individual connexins in female reproductive function, highlighting implications for women's reproductive health. METHODS No systematic review has been carried out. Published literature from the past 35 years was surveyed for research related to connexin involvement in development and function of the female reproductive system. Because of the demonstrated utility of genetic manipulation for elucidating connexin functions in various organs, much of the cited information comes from research with genetically modified mice. In some cases, a distinction is drawn between connexin functions clearly related to the formation of gap junction channels and those possibly linked to non-channel roles. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS Based on work with mice, several connexins are known to be required for female reproductive functions. Loss of connexin43 (CX43) causes an oocyte deficiency, and follicles lacking or expressing less CX43 in granulosa cells exhibit reduced growth, impairing fertility. CX43 is also expressed in human cumulus cells and, in the context of IVF, has been correlated with pregnancy outcome, suggesting that this connexin may be a determinant of oocyte and embryo quality in women. Loss of CX37, which exclusively connects oocytes with granulosa cells in the mouse, caused oocytes to cease growing without acquiring meiotic competence. Blocking of CX26 channels in the uterine epithelium disrupted implantation whereas loss or reduction of CX43 expression in the uterine stroma impaired decidualization and vascularization in mouse and human. Several connexins are important in placentation and, in the human, CX43 is a key regulator of the fusogenic pathway from the cytotrophoblast to the syncytiotrophoblast, ensuring placental growth. CX40, which characterizes the extravillous trophoblast (EVT), supports proliferation of the proximal EVTs while preventing them from differentiating into the invasive pathway. Furthermore, women with recurrent early pregnancy loss as well as those with endometriosis exhibit reduced levels of CX43 in their decidua. The antimalaria drug mefloquine, which blocks gap junction function, is responsible for increased risk of early pregnancy loss and stillbirth, probably due to inhibition of intercellular communication in the decidua or between trophoblast layers followed by an impairment of placental growth. Gap junctions also play a critical role in regulating uterine blood flow, contributing to the adaptive response to pregnancy. Given that reproductive impairment can result from connexin mutations in mice, it is advised that women suffering from somatic disease symptoms associated with connexin gene mutations be additionally tested for impacts on reproductive function. Better knowledge of these essential connexin functions in human female reproductive organs is important for safeguarding women's reproductive health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elke Winterhager
- Institute of Molecular Biology, University of Duisburg-Essen, University Clinics, 45211 Essen, Germany
| | - Gerald M Kidder
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, The University of Western Ontario and Children's Health Research Institute, London, Ontario N6C 2V5, Canada
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Plaks V, Gershon E, Zeisel A, Jacob-Hirsch J, Neeman M, Winterhager E, Rechavi G, Domany E, Dekel N. Blastocyst implantation failure relates to impaired translational machinery gene expression. Reproduction 2014; 148:87-98. [PMID: 24700326 DOI: 10.1530/rep-13-0395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Oocyte quality is a well-established determinant of embryonic fate. However, the molecular participants and biological markers that affect and may predict adequate embryonic development are largely elusive. Our aim was to identify the components of the oocyte molecular machinery that part take in the production of a healthy embryo. For this purpose, we used an animal model, generated by us previously, the oocytes of which do not express Cx43 (Cx43(del/del)). In these mice, oogenesis appears normal, fertilisation does occur, early embryonic development is successful but implantation fails. We used magnetic resonance imaging analysis combined with histological examination to characterise the embryonic developmental incompetence. Reciprocal embryo transfer confirmed that the blastocyst evolved from the Cx43(del/del) oocyte is responsible for the implantation disorder. In order to unveil the genes, the impaired expression of which brings about the development of defective embryos, we carried out a genomic screening of both the oocytes and the resulting blastocysts. This microarray analysis revealed a low expression of Egr1, Rpl21 and Eif4a1 in Cx43(del/del) oocytes and downregulation of Rpl15 and Eif4g2 in the resulting blastocysts. We propose that global deficiencies in genes related to the expression of ribosomal proteins and translation initiation factors in apparently normal oocytes bring about accumulation of defects, which significantly compromise their developmental capacity. The blastocysts resulting from such oocytes, which grow within a confined space until implantation, may be unable to generate enough biological mass to allow their expansion. This information could be implicated to diagnosis and treatment of infertility, particularly to IVF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vicki Plaks
- Departments of Biological RegulationPhysics of Complex SystemsThe Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot 76100, IsraelInstitute of AnatomyUniversity Hospital Duisburg-Essen, Essen, GermanyThe Sheba Cancer Research CenterSheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Israel
| | - Eran Gershon
- Departments of Biological RegulationPhysics of Complex SystemsThe Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot 76100, IsraelInstitute of AnatomyUniversity Hospital Duisburg-Essen, Essen, GermanyThe Sheba Cancer Research CenterSheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Israel
| | - Amit Zeisel
- Departments of Biological RegulationPhysics of Complex SystemsThe Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot 76100, IsraelInstitute of AnatomyUniversity Hospital Duisburg-Essen, Essen, GermanyThe Sheba Cancer Research CenterSheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Israel
| | - Jasmine Jacob-Hirsch
- Departments of Biological RegulationPhysics of Complex SystemsThe Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot 76100, IsraelInstitute of AnatomyUniversity Hospital Duisburg-Essen, Essen, GermanyThe Sheba Cancer Research CenterSheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Israel
| | - Michal Neeman
- Departments of Biological RegulationPhysics of Complex SystemsThe Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot 76100, IsraelInstitute of AnatomyUniversity Hospital Duisburg-Essen, Essen, GermanyThe Sheba Cancer Research CenterSheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Israel
| | - Elke Winterhager
- Departments of Biological RegulationPhysics of Complex SystemsThe Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot 76100, IsraelInstitute of AnatomyUniversity Hospital Duisburg-Essen, Essen, GermanyThe Sheba Cancer Research CenterSheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Israel
| | - Gideon Rechavi
- Departments of Biological RegulationPhysics of Complex SystemsThe Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot 76100, IsraelInstitute of AnatomyUniversity Hospital Duisburg-Essen, Essen, GermanyThe Sheba Cancer Research CenterSheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Israel
| | - Eytan Domany
- Departments of Biological RegulationPhysics of Complex SystemsThe Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot 76100, IsraelInstitute of AnatomyUniversity Hospital Duisburg-Essen, Essen, GermanyThe Sheba Cancer Research CenterSheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Israel
| | - Nava Dekel
- Departments of Biological RegulationPhysics of Complex SystemsThe Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot 76100, IsraelInstitute of AnatomyUniversity Hospital Duisburg-Essen, Essen, GermanyThe Sheba Cancer Research CenterSheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Israel
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Nielsen MS, Axelsen LN, Sorgen PL, Verma V, Delmar M, Holstein-Rathlou NH. Gap junctions. Compr Physiol 2013; 2:1981-2035. [PMID: 23723031 DOI: 10.1002/cphy.c110051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 298] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Gap junctions are essential to the function of multicellular animals, which require a high degree of coordination between cells. In vertebrates, gap junctions comprise connexins and currently 21 connexins are known in humans. The functions of gap junctions are highly diverse and include exchange of metabolites and electrical signals between cells, as well as functions, which are apparently unrelated to intercellular communication. Given the diversity of gap junction physiology, regulation of gap junction activity is complex. The structure of the various connexins is known to some extent; and structural rearrangements and intramolecular interactions are important for regulation of channel function. Intercellular coupling is further regulated by the number and activity of channels present in gap junctional plaques. The number of connexins in cell-cell channels is regulated by controlling transcription, translation, trafficking, and degradation; and all of these processes are under strict control. Once in the membrane, channel activity is determined by the conductive properties of the connexin involved, which can be regulated by voltage and chemical gating, as well as a large number of posttranslational modifications. The aim of the present article is to review our current knowledge on the structure, regulation, function, and pharmacology of gap junctions. This will be supported by examples of how different connexins and their regulation act in concert to achieve appropriate physiological control, and how disturbances of connexin function can lead to disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Morten Schak Nielsen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and The Danish National Research Foundation Centre for Cardiac Arrhythmia, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Gannon AM, Stämpfli MR, Foster WG. Cigarette Smoke Exposure Elicits Increased Autophagy and Dysregulation of Mitochondrial Dynamics in Murine Granulosa Cells1. Biol Reprod 2013; 88:63. [DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.112.106617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
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Grøndahl ML, Andersen CY, Bogstad J, Borgbo T, Boujida VH, Borup R. Specific genes are selectively expressed between cumulus and granulosa cells from individual human pre-ovulatory follicles. Mol Hum Reprod 2012; 18:572-84. [PMID: 22923488 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gas035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
During folliculogenesis, the granulosa cells differentiate into two cell types: cumulus cells (CCs) and mural granulosa cells (MGCs). The objective of the study was to generate and compare the transcriptomes of MGCs and CCs from the pre-ovulatory follicle to characterize the detailed profile of the two cell populations shortly before ovulation. Twenty-one IVF/ICSI patients undergoing controlled ovarian stimulation (COS) donated CCs and MGCs from individual follicles containing metaphase II oocytes. Cells were prepared immediately after recovery and mRNA was isolated for whole-genome gene expression analysis and reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reactions. Paired (within the individual follicle) comparisons between the CC and MGC expression profiles were performed and corrected for multiple comparisons. A total of 1562 genes were differentially expressed by >2-fold (P < 0.01) in the two cell types. Of these, 156 genes were >8-fold changed and represented specialized cellular functional categories such as inflammatory response, extracellular matrix and cell-cell communication, whereas the 1406 genes were 2-8-fold changed and represented functional categories such as proliferation and lipid metabolism. Transcripts not previously linked to the follicle were found to be differentially expressed between CCs and MGCs, suggesting specialized function in these compartments, e.g. pepsinogen A was selectively expressed in MGCs, whereas ryanodine receptor-2 (RYR2) was selectively expressed in CCs. Positive correlations were present between expression levels of RYR2 and the amphiregulin and gap-junction proteins. In conclusion, the transcriptomes of corresponding CCs and MGCs from individual pre-ovulatory follicles clearly revealed two distinct cell types. New as well as known genes representing specific cell functions close to ovulation were highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- M L Grøndahl
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.
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Culture systems: physiological and environmental factors that can affect the outcome of human ART. METHODS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY (CLIFTON, N.J.) 2012; 912:333-54. [PMID: 22829383 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-61779-971-6_19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Many aspects of the embryo culture environment have been shown to affect embryo development and the subsequent outcomes of human ART. It is now becoming increasingly evident that embryo and later development can be affected by events and conditions that occur before, perhaps long before, the oocytes and sperm are collected and brought together in the ART laboratory. These include diet and metabolic disorders, general health and disease, physical and psychological stress, exposure to environmental estrogens and other toxins, pharmaceuticals, alcohol, smoking, and drug abuse. This paper discusses the known and potential effects of season of the year (or temperature) and environmental air pollution on the outcomes of human ART. It may be useful to advise ART patients to avoid high environmental temperature and air pollution. In addition, it is important for clinical embryologists to recognize that adverse outcomes may result from such exposures, and to incorporate this into the analysis of clinic data for the purposes of quality management.
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Grazul-Bilska AT, Vonnahme KA, Bilski JJ, Borowczyk E, Soni D, Mikkelson B, Johnson ML, Reynolds LP, Redmer DA, Caton JS. Expression of gap junctional connexin proteins in ovine fetal ovaries: effects of maternal diet. Domest Anim Endocrinol 2011; 41:185-94. [PMID: 21820266 PMCID: PMC3190047 DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2011.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2011] [Revised: 06/15/2011] [Accepted: 06/20/2011] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Gap junctions have been implicated in the regulation of cellular metabolism and the coordination of cellular functions during growth and differentiation of organs and tissues, and gap junctions play a major role in direct cell-cell communication. Gap junctional channels and connexin (Cx) proteins have been detected in adult ovaries in several species. Furthermore, it has been shown that several environmental factors, including maternal diet, may affect fetal organ growth and function. To determine whether maternal diet affects expression of Cx26, Cx32, Cx37, and Cx43 in fetal ovaries, sheep were fed a maintenance (M) diet with adequate (A) selenium (Se) or high (H) Se levels from 21 d before breeding to day 132 of pregnancy. From day 50 to 132 of pregnancy (tissue collection day), a portion of the ewes from the ASe and HSe groups was fed a restricted (R; 60% of M) diet. Sections of fetal ovaries were immunostained for the presence of Cxs followed by image analysis. All four Cxs were detected, but the distribution pattern differed. Cx26 was immunolocalized in the oocytes from primordial, primary, secondary, and antral follicles; in granulosa and theca layers of secondary and antral follicles; stroma; and blood vessels. Cx32 was in oocytes, granulosa, and theca cells in a portion of antral follicles; Cx37 was on the borders between oocyte and granulosa/cumulus cells of primordial to antral follicles and in endothelium; and Cx43 was on cellular borders in granulosa and theca layers and between oocyte and granulosa/cumulus cells of primordial to antral follicles. Maternal diet affected Cx26 and Cx43 expression, Cx26 in granulosa layer of antral follicles was decreased (P < 0.01) by HSe in the M and R diets, and Cx43 in granulosa layer of primary and granulosa and theca of antral follicles was increased (P < 0.05) by the M diet with HSe. Thus, Cxs may be differentially involved in regulation of fetal ovarian function in sheep. These data emphasize the importance of maternal diet in fetal growth and development.
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Affiliation(s)
- A T Grazul-Bilska
- Department of Animal Sciences, Center for Nutrition and Pregnancy, North Dakota State University, Fargo, 58108, USA.
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