1
|
Jin H, Han Y, Zenker J. Cellular mechanisms of monozygotic twinning: clues from assisted reproduction. Hum Reprod Update 2024:dmae022. [PMID: 38996087 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmae022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Revised: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Monozygotic (MZ) twins are believed to arise from the fission of a single fertilized embryo at different stages. Monochorionic MZ twins, who share one chorion, originate from the splitting of the inner cell mass (ICM) within a single blastocyst. In the classic model for dichorionic MZ twins, the embryo splits before compaction, developing into two blastocysts. However, there are a growing number of ART cases where a single blastocyst transfer results in dichorionic MZ twins, indicating that embryo splitting may occur even after blastocyst formation. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE For monochorionic MZ twins, we conducted a comprehensive analysis of the cellular mechanisms involved in ICM splitting, drawing from both ART cases and animal experiments. In addition, we critically re-examine the classic early splitting model for dichorionic MZ twins. We explore cellular mechanisms leading to two separated blastocysts in ART, potentially causing dichorionic MZ twins. SEARCH METHODS Relevant studies including research articles, reviews, and conference papers were searched in the PubMed database. Cases of MZ twins from IVF clinics were found by using combinations of terms including 'monozygotic twins' with 'IVF case report', 'ART', 'single embryo transfer', or 'dichorionic'. The papers retrieved were categorized based on the implicated mechanisms or as those with unexplained mechanisms. Animal experiments relating to MZ twins were found using 'mouse embryo monozygotic twins', 'mouse 8-shaped hatching', 'zebrafish janus mutant', and 'nine-banded armadillo embryo', along with literature collected through day-to-day reading. The search was limited to articles in English, with no restrictions on publication date or species. OUTCOMES For monochorionic MZ twins, ART cases and mouse experiments demonstrate evidence that a looser ICM in blastocysts has an increased chance of ICM separation. Physical forces facilitated by blastocoel formation or 8-shaped hatching are exerted on the ICM, resulting in monochorionic MZ twins. For dichorionic MZ twins, the classic model resembles artificial cloning of mouse embryos in vitro, requiring strictly controlled splitting forces, re-joining prevention, and proper aggregation, which allows the formation of two separate human blastocysts under physiological circumstances. In contrast, ART procedures involving the transfer of a single blastocysts after atypical hatching or vitrified-warmed cycles might lead to blastocyst separation. Differences in morphology, molecular mechanisms, and timing across various animal model systems for MZ twinning can impede this research field. As discussed in future directions, recent developments of innovative in vitro models of human embryos may offer promising avenues for providing fundamental novel insights into the cellular mechanisms of MZ twinning during human embryogenesis. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Twin pregnancies pose high risks to both the fetuses and the mother. While single embryo transfer is commonly employed to prevent dizygotic twin pregnancies in ART, it cannot prevent the occurrence of MZ twins. Drawing from our understanding of the cellular mechanisms underlying monochorionic and dichorionic MZ twinning, along with insights into the genetic mechanisms, could enable improved prediction, prevention, and even intervention strategies during ART procedures. REGISTRAITON NUMBER N/A.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hongbin Jin
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Yang Han
- Division of Cellular and Developmental Biology, Molecular and Cell Biology Department, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Jennifer Zenker
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Cao G, Yu L, Fang J, Shi R, Li H, Lu F, Shen X, Zhu X, Wang S, Kong N. ZP1-Y262C mutation causes abnormal zona pellucida formation and female infertility in humans. Front Genet 2024; 15:1407202. [PMID: 38966008 PMCID: PMC11222594 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2024.1407202] [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: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Defective oocyte maturation is a common cause of female infertility. The loss of the zona pellucida (ZP) represents a specific condition of impaired oocyte maturation. The extracellular matrix known as the ZP envelops mammalian oocytes and preimplantation embryos, exerting significant influence on oogenesis, fertilization, and embryo implantation. However, the genetic factors leading to the loss of the ZP in oocytes are not well understood. This study focused on patients who underwent oocyte retrieval surgery after ovarian stimulation and were found to have abnormal oocyte maturation without the presence of the ZP. Ultrasonography was performed during the surgical procedure to evaluate follicle development. Peripheral blood samples from the patient were subjected to exome sequencing. Here, a novel, previously unreported heterozygous mutation in the ZP1 gene was identified. Within the ZP1 gene, we discovered a novel heterozygous mutation (ZP1 NM_207341.4:c.785A>G (p.Y262C)), specifically located in the trefoil domain. Bioinformatics comparisons further revealed conservation of the ZP1-Y262C mutation across different species. Model predictions of amino acid mutations on protein structure and cell immunofluorescence/western blot experiments collectively confirmed the detrimental effects of the ZP1-Y262C mutation on the function and expression of the ZP1 protein. The ZP1-Y262C mutation represents the novel mutation in the trefoil domain of the ZP1 protein, which is associated with defective oocyte maturation in humans. Our report enhances comprehension regarding the involvement of ZP-associated genes in female infertility and offers enriched understanding for the genetic diagnosis of this condition.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guangyi Cao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
- Center for Molecular Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lina Yu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Junshun Fang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ruixin Shi
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Obstetrics and Gynecology, Joint Institute of Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital for Life and Health, College of Life Science, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, China
| | - Huijun Li
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Feifei Lu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiaoyue Shen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiangyu Zhu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Shanshan Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Na Kong
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
- Center for Molecular Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Fakhro KA, Awwad J, Garibova S, Saraiva LR, Avella M. Conserved genes regulating human sex differentiation, gametogenesis and fertilization. J Transl Med 2024; 22:473. [PMID: 38764035 PMCID: PMC11103854 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-024-05162-2] [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: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024] Open
Abstract
The study of the functional genome in mice and humans has been instrumental for describing the conserved molecular mechanisms regulating human reproductive biology, and for defining the etiologies of monogenic fertility disorders. Infertility is a reproductive disorder that includes various conditions affecting a couple's ability to achieve a healthy pregnancy. Recent advances in next-generation sequencing and CRISPR/Cas-mediated genome editing technologies have facilitated the identification and characterization of genes and mechanisms that, if affected, lead to infertility. We report established genes that regulate conserved functions in fundamental reproductive processes (e.g., sex determination, gametogenesis, and fertilization). We only cover genes the deletion of which yields comparable fertility phenotypes in both rodents and humans. In the case of newly-discovered genes, we report the studies demonstrating shared cellular and fertility phenotypes resulting from loss-of-function mutations in both species. Finally, we introduce new model systems for the study of human reproductive biology and highlight the importance of studying human consanguineous populations to discover novel monogenic causes of infertility. The rapid and continuous screening and identification of putative genetic defects coupled with an efficient functional characterization in animal models can reveal novel mechanisms of gene function in human reproductive tissues.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Khalid A Fakhro
- Research Branch, Sidra Medicine, Doha, Qatar
- Weill Cornell Medicine, Doha, Qatar
- College of Health and Life Sciences, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Johnny Awwad
- Reproductive Medicine Unit, Sidra Medicine, Doha, Qatar
- Obstetrics & Gynecology, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
- Vincent Memorial Obstetrics & Gynecology Service, The Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Luis R Saraiva
- Research Branch, Sidra Medicine, Doha, Qatar
- College of Health and Life Sciences, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Matteo Avella
- Research Branch, Sidra Medicine, Doha, Qatar.
- College of Health and Life Sciences, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha, Qatar.
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Fang J, Sun H, Chen L, Wang J, Lin F, Xu Z, Zhu L, Wang S. Embryological characteristics and clinical outcomes of oocytes with different degrees of abnormal zona pellucida during assisted reproductive treatment. ZYGOTE 2024; 32:7-13. [PMID: 38018399 DOI: 10.1017/s0967199423000515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2023]
Abstract
Abnormalities in the zona pellucida (ZP) adversely affect oocyte maturation, embryo development and pregnancy outcomes. However, the assessment of severity is challenging. To evaluate the effects of different degrees of ZP abnormalities on embryo development and clinical outcomes, in total, 590 retrieval cycles were scored and divided into four categories (control, mild, moderate and severe) based on three parameters: perivitelline space, percentage of immature oocytes and percentage of oocytes with abnormal morphology. As the severity of abnormal ZP increased, both the number of retrieved oocytes and mature oocytes decreased. The fertilization rate did not differ significantly among groups. The rates of embryo cleavage and day-3 high-quality embryos in the mild group and the moderate group did not vary significantly between the two groups but were significantly higher than those in the severe group. The blastulation rates of the abnormal ZP groups were similar; however, they were lower than those of the control group. Moreover, the cycle cancellation rate of the severe abnormal ZP group was as high as 66.20%, which was significantly higher than that of the other three groups. Although the rates of cumulative clinical pregnancy and live births were lower than those in the control group, they were comparable among the abnormal ZP groups. There were no differences in the neonatal outcomes of the different groups. Together, ZP abnormalities show various degrees of severity, and in all patients regardless of the degree of ZP abnormalities who achieve available embryos, there will be an opportunity to eventually give birth.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Junshun Fang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing210008, China
- Center for Molecular Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing210008, China
| | - Hua Sun
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing210008, China
- Center for Molecular Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing210008, China
| | - Linjun Chen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing210008, China
- Center for Molecular Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing210008, China
| | - Jie Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing210008, China
- Center for Molecular Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing210008, China
| | - Fei Lin
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing210008, China
- Center for Molecular Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing210008, China
| | - Zhipeng Xu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing210008, China
- Center for Molecular Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing210008, China
| | - Lihua Zhu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing210008, China
- Center for Molecular Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing210008, China
| | - Shanshan Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing210008, China
- Center for Molecular Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing210008, China
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Schultz IJ, Zimmerman Y, Moelans CB, Chrusciel M, Krijgh J, van Diest PJ, Huhtaniemi IT, Coelingh Bennink HJT. A tumor cell specific Zona Pellucida glycoprotein 3 RNA transcript encodes an intracellular cancer antigen. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1233039. [PMID: 38125942 PMCID: PMC10731367 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1233039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Expression of Zona Pellucida glycoprotein 3 (ZP3) in healthy tissue is restricted to the extracellular Zona Pellucida layer surrounding oocytes of ovarian follicles and to specific cells of the spermatogenic lineage. Ectopic expression of ZP3 has been observed in various types of cancer, rendering it a possible therapeutic target. Methods To support its validity as therapeutic target, we extended the cancer related data by investigating ZP3 expression using immunohistochemistry (IHC) of tumor biopsies. We performed a ZP3 transcript specific analysis of publicly available RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq) data of cancer cell lines (CCLs) and tumor and normal tissues, and validated expression data by independent computational analysis and real-time quantitative PCR (qPCR). A correlation between the ZP3 expression level and pathological and clinical parameters was also investigated. Results IHC data for several cancer types showed abundant ZP3 protein staining, which was confined to the cytoplasm, contradicting the extracellular protein localization in oocytes. We noticed that an alternative ZP3 RNA transcript, which we term 'ZP3-Cancer', was annotated in gene databases that lacks the genetic information encoding the N-terminal signal peptide that governs entry into the secretory pathway. This explains the intracellular localization of ZP3 in tumor cells. Analysis of publicly available RNA-seq data of 1339 cancer cell lines (CCLs), 10386 tumor tissues (The Cancer Genome Atlas) and 7481 healthy tissues (Genotype-Tissue Expression) indicated that ZP3-Cancer is the dominant ZP3 RNA transcript in tumor cells and is highly enriched in many cancer types, particularly in rectal, ovarian, colorectal, prostate, lung and breast cancer. Expression of ZP3-Cancer in tumor cells was confirmed by qPCR. Higher levels of the ZP3-Cancer transcript were associated with more aggressive tumors and worse survival of patients with various types of cancer. Conclusion The cancer-restricted expression of ZP3-Cancer renders it an attractive tumor antigen for the development of a therapeutic cancer vaccine, particularly using mRNA expression technologies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Cathy B. Moelans
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | | | - Jan Krijgh
- Pantarhei Oncology BV, Zeist, Netherlands
| | - Paul J. van Diest
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Ilpo T. Huhtaniemi
- Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
- Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | | |
Collapse
|
6
|
Kang I, Koo M, Yoon H, Park BS, Jun JH, Lee J. Ovastacin: An oolemma protein that cleaves the zona pellucida to prevent polyspermy. Clin Exp Reprod Med 2023; 50:154-159. [PMID: 37643828 PMCID: PMC10477413 DOI: 10.5653/cerm.2023.05981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Monospermy occurs in the process of normal fertilization where a single sperm fuses with the egg, resulting in the formation of a diploid zygote. During the process of fertilization, the sperm must penetrate the zona pellucida (ZP), the outer layer of the egg, to reach the egg's plasma membrane. Once a sperm binds to the ZP, it undergoes an acrosomal reaction, which involves the release of enzymes from the sperm's acrosome that help it to penetrate the ZP. Ovastacin is one of the enzymes that is involved in breaking down the ZP. Studies have shown that ovastacin is necessary for the breakdown of the ZP and for successful fertilization to occur. However, the activity of ovastacin is tightly regulated to ensure that only one sperm can fertilize the egg. One way in which ovastacin helps to prevent polyspermy (the fertilization of an egg by more than one sperm) is by rapidly degrading the ZP after a sperm has penetrated it. This makes it difficult for additional sperm to penetrate the ZP and fertilize the egg. Ovastacin is also thought to play a role in the block to polyspermy, a mechanism that prevents additional sperm from fusing with the egg's plasma membrane after fertilization has occurred. In summary, the role of ovastacin in monospermic fertilization is to help ensure that only one sperm can fertilize the egg, while preventing polyspermy and ensuring successful fertilization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Inyoung Kang
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Sciences, Eulji University, Seongnam, Republic of Korea
| | - Myoungjoo Koo
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Sciences, Eulji University, Seongnam, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyejin Yoon
- Department of Senior Healthcare, Graduate School of Eulji University, Seongnam, Republic of Korea
| | - Beom Seok Park
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Sciences, Eulji University, Seongnam, Republic of Korea
- Department of Senior Healthcare, Graduate School of Eulji University, Seongnam, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin Hyun Jun
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Sciences, Eulji University, Seongnam, Republic of Korea
- Department of Senior Healthcare, Graduate School of Eulji University, Seongnam, Republic of Korea
- Eulji Medi-Bio Research Institute (EMBRI), Eulji University, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Jaewang Lee
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Sciences, Eulji University, Seongnam, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Zhang J, Li S, Huang F, Xu R, Wang D, Song T, Liang B, Liu D, Chen J, Shi X, Huang HL. A novel compound heterozygous mutation in TUBB8 causing early embryonic developmental arrest. J Assist Reprod Genet 2023; 40:753-763. [PMID: 36735156 PMCID: PMC10224908 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-023-02734-x] [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: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Mutations in the β-tubulin isotype, TUBB8, can cause female infertility. Although several mutations of TUBB8 have been reported, the full spectrum for guiding genetics counseling still needs to be further explored. Here, we sought to identify novel variants in TUBB8 and their phenotypic effects on microtubule network structure in vitro. METHODS Whole-exome sequence analysis was performed in two families with infertility to detect pathogenic variants, with validation by Sanger sequencing. All gene variants and protein structures were predicted in silico. Cells were transfected with wild-type and mutants, and immunofluorescence analysis was performed to visualize microtubule network changes. RESULTS We detected a novel compound heterozygous mutation, c.915_916delCC (p.Arg306Serfs*21) and c.82C > T (p.His28Tyr), and a benign heterozygous variant c.1286C > T (p.Thr429Met) in TUBB8 in the two families. Female patients with p.Arg306Serfs*21 and p.His28Tyr were infertile with early embryonic developmental arrest. The female patient with p.Thr429Met gave birth to a healthy baby in the second in vitro fertilization frozen embryo transfer cycle. The p.Arg306Serfs*21 mutation was predicted to cause large structural alteration in the TUBB8 protein and was confirmed to produce a truncated and trace protein by western blot analysis. Immunofluorescence analysis of transfected HeLa cells showed that p.Arg306Serfs*21 significantly disrupted microtubule structure. CONCLUSIONS Our findings expand the known mutational spectrum of TUBB8 associated with early embryonic developmental arrest and female infertility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jing Zhang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, No. 139, Renmin Middle Road, Changsha, 410011, Hunan, China
| | - Suping Li
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Chenzhou No. 1 People's Hospital, Chenzhou, 412000, Hunan, China
| | - Fei Huang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, No. 139, Renmin Middle Road, Changsha, 410011, Hunan, China
| | - Ru Xu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, No. 139, Renmin Middle Road, Changsha, 410011, Hunan, China
| | - Dao Wang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, No. 139, Renmin Middle Road, Changsha, 410011, Hunan, China
| | - Tian Song
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, No. 139, Renmin Middle Road, Changsha, 410011, Hunan, China
| | - Boluo Liang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, No. 139, Renmin Middle Road, Changsha, 410011, Hunan, China
| | - Dan Liu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, No. 139, Renmin Middle Road, Changsha, 410011, Hunan, China
| | - Jianlin Chen
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, No. 139, Renmin Middle Road, Changsha, 410011, Hunan, China
| | - Xiaobo Shi
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, No. 139, Renmin Middle Road, Changsha, 410011, Hunan, China
| | - Hua-Lin Huang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, No. 139, Renmin Middle Road, Changsha, 410011, Hunan, China.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Gupta SK. Zona pellucida glycoproteins: Relevance in fertility and development of contraceptive vaccines. Am J Reprod Immunol 2023; 89:e13535. [PMID: 35249246 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Mammalian zona pellucida (ZP) is composed of three to four glycoproteins, which plays an important role during fertilization. Mutations in the genes encoding zona proteins are reported in women with empty follicle syndrome, degenerated oocytes and those with an abnormal or no ZP further emphasizing their relevance during fertility. Immunization with either native or recombinant ZP glycoproteins/proteins leads to curtailment of fertility in various animal species. Observed infertility is frequently associated with ovarian pathology characterized by follicular atresia and degenerative changes in ZP, which may be due to oophoritogenic T cell epitope(s) within ZP glycoproteins. To avoid ovarian dystrophy, B cell epitopes of ZP glycoproteins have been mapped by using bio-effective monoclonal antibodies. Immunization with the immunogens encompassing the mapped B cell epitopes by and large led to amelioration of follicular atresia. However, their use for human application will require more rigorous research to establish their safety and reversibility of the contraceptive effect. Nonetheless, to minimize human-animal conflicts, ZP-based contraceptive vaccines have been used successfully in the population management of free-ranging animal species such as feral horses, white-tailed deer and elephants. To control zoonotic diseases, attempts are also underway to control the population of other animal species including stray dogs, which acts as one of the major vectors for the rabies virus.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Satish K Gupta
- Basic Medical Sciences Division, Indian Council of Medical Research, New Delhi, India
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Bedenk J, Režen T, Jančar N, Geršak K, Virant Klun I. Effect of In Vitro Maturation of Human Oocytes Obtained After Controlled Ovarian Hormonal Stimulation on the Expression of Development- and Zona Pellucida-Related Genes and Their Interactions. Reprod Sci 2023; 30:667-677. [PMID: 35915350 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-022-01047-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
In an in vitro fertilization program, approximately 10-15% of oocytes obtained after controlled ovarian stimulation are immature, with germinal vesicles (GVs). These oocytes are usually discarded in clinical practice; however, an in vitro maturation (IVM) procedure can be applied to mature them. There are scarce data in the literature on the effect of IVM on the expression of important development- and zona pellucida (ZP)-related genes in human oocytes; therefore, we wanted to determine this. One hundred nine human oocytes were collected from patients enrolled in an intracytoplasmic sperm injection program. The expression of the BMP4, GDF9, ZP1, ZP2, ZP3, and ZP4 genes was analyzed using RT-qPCR in oocytes matured in vitro with different reproductive hormones in the IVM medium (AMH, FSH + hCG, FSH + hCG + AMH), in in vivo matured oocytes and in immature oocytes with GVs. No statistically significant differences in the expression of selected genes in oocytes were observed among groups with different reproductive hormones in IVM medium. However, several interesting significant correlations were found between BMP4 and GDF9, and ZP1 and ZP4; between GDF9 and ZP1, and ZP2 and ZP4; and between ZP1 and ZP3 and ZP4 in the in vitro matured oocytes, while no such correlations were present in other groups of oocytes. The type of reproductive hormone in the maturation medium does not affect the expression of the analyzed genes in oocytes during the maturation process. However, the in vitro maturation procedure itself generated correlations among analyzed genes that were otherwise not present in in vivo matured and immature oocytes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jure Bedenk
- Clinical Research Centre, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia.
| | - Tadeja Režen
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Centre for Functional Genomics and Bio-Chips, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Nina Jančar
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Ksenija Geršak
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Irma Virant Klun
- Clinical Research Centre, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Novel variants in ZP1, ZP2 and ZP3 associated with empty follicle syndrome and abnormal zona pellucida. Reprod Biomed Online 2023; 46:847-855. [PMID: 36931917 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2023.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2022] [Revised: 12/31/2022] [Accepted: 01/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Which genetic variants might explain the causes of empty follicle syndrome (EFS) and abnormal zona pellucida (ZP) and affect the success of treatment with assisted reproductive technologies (ART)? DESIGN Whole-exome sequencing was performed in probands with EFS and abnormal ZP. Sanger sequencing was used for variant validation. Using HEK-293T cells, the effects of ZP1 and ZP2 variants on protein expression were explored by western blotting, and the effect of the ZP1 variant on protein location was investigated via immunofluorescence. The protein structure was also analysed to investigate the pathogenicity of variants. RESULTS A homozygous nonsense variant in ZP1 (c.874C>T, p.Gln292*) was detected in a patient with EFS. A novel homozygous frameshift variant in ZP2 (c.836_837delAG, p.Glu279Valfs*6) and a novel heterozygous missense variant in ZP3 (c.1159G>A, p.Val387Met) were identified in two patients with ZP morphological abnormalities, respectively. Western blotting and immunofluorescence analysis showed that the ZP1 variant results in a premature stop codon, leading to the truncated ZP1 protein. The ZP2 variant, which is situated in the N-terminus, triggers the degradation of a premature termination protein. Additionally, the patient with the ZP3 variant achieved clinical pregnancy following intracytoplasmic sperm injection treatment. CONCLUSIONS These findings expand the mutational spectrum of ZP1, ZP2 and ZP3, and provide new evidence for genetic diagnosis of female infertility. The targeted genetic diagnosis of ZP genes is recommended to choose appropriate fertilization methods and improve success rates of treatment with ART.
Collapse
|
11
|
Pujalte M, Camo M, Celton N, Attencourt C, Lefranc E, Jedraszak G, Scheffler F. A ZP1 gene mutation in a patient with empty follicle syndrome: A case report and literature review. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2023; 280:193-197. [PMID: 36529558 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2022.12.011] [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: 09/16/2022] [Revised: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Genuine empty follicle syndrome (gEFS) is a rare cause of female infertility; it is defined as the presence of cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) in follicular fluid but the absence of oocytes after denudation in an in vitro fertilization (IVF) programme. Mutations in one of the four genes encoding zona pellucida (ZP) proteins have been implicated in gEFS. The objectives of the present study were to explore the molecular basis of idiopathic infertility in a 35-year-old woman with gEFS (observed after four ovarian retrievals), compare her phenotype and genotype with those of other patients described in the literature, and discuss therapeutic approaches that could be adopted by reproductive health centres in this situation. Sequencing of the ZP genes revealed a new homozygous missense variant in ZP1: c.1097G > A;p.(Arg366Gln). The variant is located in the ZP-N domain, which is essential for ZP protein polymerization. An immunohistochemical assessment of an ovarian biopsy confirmed the absence of ZP1 protein. The novel variant appears to prevent ZP assembly, which would explain the absence of normal oocytes after denudation in our patient (and despite the retrieval of COCs). ZP gene sequencing should be considered for patients with a phenotype suggestive of gEFS. An etiological genetic diagnosis enables appropriate genetic counselling and a switch to an IVF programme (with a suitable denudation technique) or an oocyte donation programme.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mathilde Pujalte
- Department of Constitutional Genetics, Amiens University Hospital, Amiens, France
| | - Maïté Camo
- Reproductive Medicine and Biology Department, CECOS of Picardy, Amiens University Hospital, Amiens, France
| | - Noémie Celton
- Department of Constitutional Genetics, Amiens University Hospital, Amiens, France
| | - Christophe Attencourt
- Department of Anatomy and Pathological Cytology, Amiens University Hospital, Amiens, France
| | - Elodie Lefranc
- Reproductive Medicine and Biology Department, CECOS of Picardy, Amiens University Hospital, Amiens, France
| | - Guillaume Jedraszak
- Department of Constitutional Genetics, Amiens University Hospital, Amiens, France; EMATIM UR4666, CURS, Jules Verne University of Picardy, Amiens, France
| | - Florence Scheffler
- Reproductive Medicine and Biology Department, CECOS of Picardy, Amiens University Hospital, Amiens, France; Peritox UMR_I 01, CURS, Jules Verne University of Picardy, Amiens, France.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Zhou J, Wang M, Hu J, Li Z, Zhu L, Jin L. A novel heterozygous variant in PANX1 causes primary infertility due to oocyte death. J Assist Reprod Genet 2023; 40:65-73. [PMID: 36469255 PMCID: PMC9840723 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-022-02666-y] [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: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/08/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Variants in the pannexin1 (PANX1) gene have been reported to be associated with oocyte death and recurrent in vitro fertilization failure. In this study, we performed genetic analysis in the patient with female infertility due to oocyte death to identify the disease-causing gene variant in the patient. METHODS We characterized one patient from a non-consanguineous family who had suffered from oocyte death and female infertility. Whole-exome sequencing and Sanger sequencing were used to identify the variant in the family. Western blot analysis was used to check the effect of the variant on PANX1 glycosylation pattern in vitro. RESULTS We identified a novel heterozygous PANX1 variant (NM_015368.4 c.976_978del, (p.Asn326del)) associated with the phenotype of oocyte death in a non-consanguineous family, followed by an autosomal dominant (AD) mode. This variant showed a more delayed emergence of oocyte death than previously reported articles. Western blot analysis confirmed that the deletion variant of PANX1 (c.976_978del) altered the glycosylation pattern in HeLa cells. CONCLUSIONS Our findings expand the variant spectrum of PANX1 genes associated with oocyte death and provide new support for the genetic diagnosis of female infertility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juepu Zhou
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No.1095, Jiefang Road, Wuhan, 430030 China
| | - Meng Wang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No.1095, Jiefang Road, Wuhan, 430030 China
| | - Juan Hu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No.1095, Jiefang Road, Wuhan, 430030 China
| | - Zhou Li
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No.1095, Jiefang Road, Wuhan, 430030 China
| | - Lixia Zhu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No.1095, Jiefang Road, Wuhan, 430030 China
| | - Lei Jin
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No.1095, Jiefang Road, Wuhan, 430030 China
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Zhou J, Wang M, Yang Q, Li D, Li Z, Hu J, Jin L, Zhu L. Can successful pregnancy be achieved and predicted from patients with identified ZP mutations? A literature review. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2022; 20:166. [PMID: 36476320 PMCID: PMC9730648 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-022-01046-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In mammals, normal fertilization depends on the structural and functional integrity of the zona pellucida (ZP), which is an extracellular matrix surrounding oocytes. Mutations in ZP may affect oogenesis, fertilization and early embryonic development, which may cause female infertility. METHODS A PubMed literature search using the keywords 'zona pellucida', 'mutation' and 'variant' limited to humans was performed, with the last research on June 30, 2022. The mutation types, clinical phenotypes and pregnancy outcomes were summarized and analyzed. The naive Bayes classifier was used to predict clinical pregnancy outcomes for patients with ZP mutations. RESULTS A total of 29 publications were included in the final analysis. Sixty-nine mutations of the ZP genes were reported in 87 patients with different clinical phenotypes, including empty follicle syndrome (EFS), ZP-free oocytes (ZFO), ZP-thin oocytes (ZTO), degenerated and immature oocytes. The phenotypes of patients were influenced by the types and location of the mutations. The most common effects of ZP mutations are protein truncation and dysfunction. Three patients with ZP1 mutations, two with ZP2 mutations, and three with ZP4 mutations had successful pregnancies through Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) from ZFO or ZTO. A prediction model of pregnancy outcome in patients with ZP mutation was constructed to assess the chance of pregnancy with the area under the curve (AUC) of 0.898. The normalized confusion matrix showed the true positive rate was 1.00 and the true negative rate was 0.38. CONCLUSION Phenotypes in patients with ZP mutations might be associated with mutation sites or the degree of protein dysfunction. Successful pregnancy outcomes could be achieved in some patients with identified ZP mutations. Clinical pregnancy prediction model based on ZP mutations and clinical characteristics will be helpful to precisely evaluate pregnancy chance and provide references and guidance for the clinical treatment of relevant patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juepu Zhou
- grid.33199.310000 0004 0368 7223Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No.1095, Jiefang Road, Wuhan, 430030 China
| | - Meng Wang
- grid.33199.310000 0004 0368 7223Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No.1095, Jiefang Road, Wuhan, 430030 China
| | - Qiyu Yang
- grid.33199.310000 0004 0368 7223Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No.1095, Jiefang Road, Wuhan, 430030 China
| | - Dan Li
- grid.33199.310000 0004 0368 7223Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No.1095, Jiefang Road, Wuhan, 430030 China
| | - Zhou Li
- grid.33199.310000 0004 0368 7223Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No.1095, Jiefang Road, Wuhan, 430030 China
| | - Juan Hu
- grid.33199.310000 0004 0368 7223Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No.1095, Jiefang Road, Wuhan, 430030 China
| | - Lei Jin
- grid.33199.310000 0004 0368 7223Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No.1095, Jiefang Road, Wuhan, 430030 China
| | - Lixia Zhu
- grid.33199.310000 0004 0368 7223Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No.1095, Jiefang Road, Wuhan, 430030 China
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Solovova OA, Chernykh VB. Genetics of Oocyte Maturation Defects and Early Embryo Development Arrest. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:1920. [PMID: 36360157 PMCID: PMC9689903 DOI: 10.3390/genes13111920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2022] [Revised: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 08/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Various pathogenic factors can lead to oogenesis failure and seriously affect both female reproductive health and fertility. Genetic factors play an important role in folliculogenesis and oocyte maturation but still need to be clarified. Oocyte maturation is a well-organized complex process, regulated by a large number of genes. Pathogenic variants in these genes as well as aneuploidy, defects in mitochondrial genome, and other genetic and epigenetic factors can result in unexplained infertility, early pregnancy loss, and recurrent failures of IVF/ICSI programs due to poor ovarian response to stimulation, oocyte maturation arrest, poor gamete quality, fertilization failure, or early embryonic developmental arrest. In this paper, we review the main genes, as well as provide a description of the defects in the mitochondrial genome, associated with female infertility.
Collapse
|
15
|
Fei CF, Zhou LQ. Gene mutations impede oocyte maturation, fertilization, and early embryonic development. Bioessays 2022; 44:e2200007. [PMID: 35900055 DOI: 10.1002/bies.202200007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2022] [Revised: 07/09/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Reproductive diseases are a long-standing problem and have become more common in the world. Currently, 15% of the world's population suffers from infertility, and half of them are women. Maturation of oocytes, successful fertilization, and high-quality embryos are prerequisites for pregnancy. With the development of assisted reproductive technology and advanced genetic assays, we have found that infertility in many young female patients is caused by mutations in various developmental regulators. These pathogenic factors may result in impediment of oocyte maturation, failure of fertilization or early embryonic development arrest. In this review, we categorize these clinically-identified, mutated genetic factors by their molecular characteristics: nuclear factors (PALT2, TRIP13, WEE2, TBPL2, REC114, MEI1 and CDC20), cytoplasmic factors (TLE6, PADI6, NLRP2/5, FBXO43, MOS and BTG4), a factor unique to primates (TUBB8), cell membrane factor (PANX1), and zona pellucida factors (ZP1-3). We compared discrepancies observed in phenotypes between human and mouse models to provide clues for clinical diagnosis and treatment of related reproductive diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cai-Feng Fei
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Li-Quan Zhou
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Liu Q, Chen X, Qiao J. Advances in studying human gametogenesis and embryonic development in China. Biol Reprod 2022; 107:12-26. [PMID: 35788258 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac134] [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: 01/21/2022] [Revised: 05/21/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Reproductive medicine in China has developed rapidly since 1988 due to the support from the government and scientific exploration. However, the success rate of assisted reproduction technology (ART) is around 30-40% and many unknown "black boxes" in gametogenesis and embryo development are still present. With the development of single-cell and low-input sequencing technologies, the network of transcriptome and epigenetic regulation (DNA methylation, chromatin accessibility, and histone modifications) during the development of human primordial germ cells (PGCs), gametes and embryos has been investigated in depth. Furthermore, pre-implantation genetic testing (PGT) has also rapidly developed. In this review, we summarize and analyze China's outstanding progress in these fields.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qiang Liu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction (Peking University), Ministry of Education, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Xi Chen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction (Peking University), Ministry of Education, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Jie Qiao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction (Peking University), Ministry of Education, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology, Beijing, China.,Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Genomics, Beijing, China.,Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China.,Research Units of Comprehensive Diagnosis and Treatment of Oocyte Maturation Arrest, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Loeuillet C, Dhellemmes M, Cazin C, Kherraf ZE, Fourati Ben Mustapha S, Zouari R, Thierry-Mieg N, Arnoult C, Ray PF. A recurrent ZP1 variant is responsible for Oocyte Maturation Defect with degenerated oocytes in infertile females. Clin Genet 2022; 102:22-29. [PMID: 35460069 PMCID: PMC9327729 DOI: 10.1111/cge.14144] [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: 01/19/2022] [Revised: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
A female factor is present in approximately 70% of couple infertility, often due to ovulatory disorders. In oocyte maturation defect (OMD), affected patients have a primary infertility with normal menstrual cycles but produce no oocyte, degenerated (atretic) or abnormal oocytes blocked at different stages of maturation. Four genes have so far been associated with OMD: PATL2, TUBB8, WEE2, and ZP1. In our initial study, 6 out of 23 OMD subjects were shown to carry the same PATL2 homozygous loss of function variant and one patient had a TUBB8 truncating variant. Here, we included four additional OMD patients and reanalyzed all 27 subjects. In addition to the seven patients with a previously identified defect, five carried the same deleterious homozygous ZP1 variant (c.1097G>A; p.Arg366Gln). All the oocytes from ZP1‐associated patients appeared shriveled and dark indicating that the abnormal ZP1 protein induced oocyte death and degeneration. Overall ZP1‐associated patients had degenerated or absent oocytes contrary to PATL2‐associated subjects who had immature oocytes blocked mainly at the germinal vesicle stage. In this cohort of North African OMD patients, whole exome sequencing permitted to diagnose 44% of the patients studied and to identify a new frequent ZP1 variant.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Corinne Loeuillet
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR 5309, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Team Genetics Epigenetics and Therapies of Infertility, Grenoble, France
| | - Magali Dhellemmes
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR 5309, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Team Genetics Epigenetics and Therapies of Infertility, Grenoble, France
| | - Caroline Cazin
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR 5309, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Team Genetics Epigenetics and Therapies of Infertility, Grenoble, France.,CHU Grenoble Alpes, UM GI-DPI, Grenoble, France.,Laboratoire Eurofins Biomnis, Département de Génétique Moléculaire, Lyon, France
| | - Zine-Eddine Kherraf
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR 5309, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Team Genetics Epigenetics and Therapies of Infertility, Grenoble, France.,CHU Grenoble Alpes, UM GI-DPI, Grenoble, France
| | | | - Raoudha Zouari
- Polyclinique les Jasmins, Centre d'Aide Médicale à la Procréation, Centre Urbain Nord, Tunis, Tunisia
| | | | - Christophe Arnoult
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR 5309, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Team Genetics Epigenetics and Therapies of Infertility, Grenoble, France
| | - Pierre F Ray
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR 5309, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Team Genetics Epigenetics and Therapies of Infertility, Grenoble, France.,CHU Grenoble Alpes, UM GI-DPI, Grenoble, France
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Novel mutations in ZP2 and ZP3 cause female infertility in three patients. J Assist Reprod Genet 2022; 39:1205-1215. [PMID: 35366744 PMCID: PMC9107549 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-022-02466-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this study was to identify the disease-causing mutations found in three infertile female patients who were diagnosed with abnormal zona pellucida (ZP) and empty follicle syndrome (EFS). METHODS We performed whole-exome sequencing and Sanger sequencing to identify and verify the disease-causing mutations. Additionally, we performed Western blotting and mini-gene splicing assay to assess the effects of the mutations. RESULTS We identified two novel compound heterozygous mutations in the ZP2 gene, a patient with an abnormal ZP carrying a novel compound heterozygous mutation (c.1695-2A>G and c.1831G>T, p.V611F) and a patient with EFS carrying a novel compound heterozygous mutation (c.1695-2A>G and c.1924 C>T, p.R642*). Furthermore, we identified a patient with typical abnormal ZP carrying a novel heterozygous mutation (c.400G>T, p.A134S) in the ZP3 gene. The splice site mutation (c.1695-2A>G) can cause abnormal pre-mRNA splicing that inserts an extra sequence of 61 bp in the mRNA of ZP2, and the missense mutation (c.1831G>T) can cause a decrease of ZP2 protein in HEK293 cells. CONCLUSION We identified three novel mutations in the ZP2 gene and the ZP3 gene in three Chinese female patients with infertility. Our study expands the spectrum of ZP gene mutations and phenotypes and thus is beneficial in the genetic diagnosis of infertility in females.
Collapse
|
19
|
Hatırnaz Ş, Hatırnaz ES, Ellibeş Kaya A, Hatırnaz K, Soyer Çalışkan C, Sezer Ö, Dokuzeylül Güngor N, Demirel C, Baltacı V, Tan S, Dahan M. Oocyte maturation abnormalities - A systematic review of the evidence and mechanisms in a rare but difficult to manage fertility pheneomina. Turk J Obstet Gynecol 2022; 19:60-80. [PMID: 35343221 PMCID: PMC8966321 DOI: 10.4274/tjod.galenos.2022.76329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
A small proportion of infertile women experience repeated oocyte maturation abnormalities (OMAS). OMAS include degenerated and dysmorphic oocytes, empty follicle syndrome, oocyte maturation arrest (OMA), resistant ovary syndrome and maturation defects due to primary ovarian insufficiency. Genetic factors play an important role in OMAS but still need specifications. This review documents the spectrum of OMAS and to evaluate the multiple subtypes classified as OMAS. In this review, readers will be able to understand the oocyte maturation mechanism, gene expression and their regulation that lead to different subtypes of OMAs, and it will discuss the animal and human studies related to OMAS and lastly the treatment options for OMAs. Literature searches using PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, National Institute for Health and Care Excellence were performed to identify articles written in English focusing on Oocyte Maturation Abnormalities by looking for the following relevant keywords. A search was made with the specified keywords and included books and documents, clinical trials, animal studies, human studies, meta-analysis, randomized controlled trials, reviews, systematic reviews and options written in english. The search detected 3,953 sources published from 1961 to 2021. After title and abstract screening for study type, duplicates and relevancy, 2,914 studies were excluded. The remaining 1,039 records were assessed for eligibility by full-text reading and 886 records were then excluded. Two hundred and twenty seven full-text articles and 0 book chapters from the database were selected for inclusion. Overall, 227 articles, one unpublished and one abstract paper were included in this final review. In this review study, OMAS were classified and extensively evaluatedand possible treatment options under the light of current information, present literature and ongoing studies. Either genetic studies or in vitro maturation studies that will be handled in the future will lead more informations to be reached and may make it possible to obtain pregnancies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Şafak Hatırnaz
- Medicana Samsun International Hospital, In Vitro Fertilization-In Vitro Maturation Unit, Samsun, Turkey
| | - Ebru Saynur Hatırnaz
- Medicana Samsun International Hospital, In Vitro Fertilization-In Vitro Maturation Unit, Samsun, Turkey
| | - Aşkı Ellibeş Kaya
- Private Office, Clinic of Obstetrics and Gynecology Specialist, Samsun, Turkey
| | - Kaan Hatırnaz
- Ondokuz Mayıs University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Samsun, Turkey
| | - Canan Soyer Çalışkan
- University of Health Sciences Turkey, Samsun Training and Research Hospital, Clinic of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Samsun, Turkey
| | - Özlem Sezer
- University of Health Sciences Turkey, Samsun Training and Research Hospital, Clinic of Genetics, Samsun, Turkey
| | | | - Cem Demirel
- Memorial Ataşehir Hospital, In Vitro Fertilization Unit, İstanbul, Turkey
| | | | - Seang Tan
- James Edmund Dodds Chair in ObGyn, Department of ObGyn, McGill University, OriginElle Fertility Clinic and Women, QC, Canada
| | - Michael Dahan
- McGill Reproductive Centre, Department of ObGyn, McGill University Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Picchetta L, Caroselli S, Figliuzzi M, Cogo F, Zambon P, Costa M, Pergher I, Patassini C, Cortellessa F, Zuccarello D, Poli M, Capalbo A. Molecular tools for the genomic assessment of oocyte’s reproductive competence. J Assist Reprod Genet 2022; 39:847-860. [PMID: 35124783 PMCID: PMC9050973 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-022-02411-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The most important factor associated with oocytes' developmental competence has been widely identified as the presence of chromosomal abnormalities. However, growing application of genome-wide sequencing (GS) in population diagnostics has enabled the identification of multifactorial genetic predispositions to sub-lethal pathologies, including those affecting IVF outcomes and reproductive fitness. Indeed, GS analysis in families with history of isolated infertility has recently led to the discovery of new genes and variants involved in specific human infertility endophenotypes that impact the availability and the functionality of female gametes by altering unique mechanisms necessary for oocyte maturation and early embryo development. Ongoing advancements in analytical and bioinformatic pipelines for the study of the genetic determinants of oocyte competence may provide the biological evidence required not only for improving the diagnosis of isolated female infertility but also for the development of novel preventive and therapeutic approaches for reproductive failure. Here, we provide an updated discussion and review of the progresses made in preconception genomic medicine in the identification of genetic factors associated with oocyte availability, function, and competence.
Collapse
|
21
|
Yang D, Yang H, Yang B, Wang K, Zhu Q, Wang J, Ding F, Rao B, Xue R, Peng J, Wang Q, Cao Y, Zou W, Chen B, Zhang Z. Embryological Characteristics of Human Oocytes With Agar-Like Zona Pellucida and Its Clinical Treatment Strategy. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:859361. [PMID: 35813655 PMCID: PMC9259955 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.859361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Zona pellucida (ZP) abnormalities are the cause of low fertility or infertility, agar-like ZP is more common in abnormal ZP. The purpose of this exploration is to systematically analyze the fertilization competence of agar-like ZP oocytes, the development characteristics of subsequent embryos as well as the results of embryo transfer, aiming to explore effective clinical treatment strategies. A total of 58 patients with agar-like ZP were set as the case group and the control group involved 3866 patients, in which the patients' oocytes presented normal ZP. BMI, basal hormone levels, and hormone levels were similar in both groups. The case patients suffered significantly longer infertility years than control (p<0.05), and most patients were diagnosed with pelvic inflammatory diseases. A distinct difference was observed in the structure of oocyte corona cumulus complexes between the two groups. The embryo development parameters, which include the rates of cleavage, high-quality embryo, blastocyst, and high-quality blastocyst in the case group were greatly lower than that in the control group (p<0.05). The rates of cumulative clinical pregnancy and live birth were comparable between the two groups. In the subsequent follow-up, thirty-four of the 58 patients receiving intracytoplasmic single sperm injection (ICSI) or early rescue ICSI (R-ICSI) treatment successfully gave birth to babies, and all of the newborns were with no neonatal defects. In addition, the fertilization rate of the R-ICSI group was significantly lower than that of the ICSI group (p<0.05). The occurrence of agar-like ZP impairs the development competence of human oocytes, however, the human oocytes with agar-like ZP can develop into healthy offspring, and an ICSI regimen is the optimal treatment strategy for them.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dandan Yang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract (Anhui Medical University), Hefei, China
| | - Han Yang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract (Anhui Medical University), Hefei, China
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Bo Yang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract (Anhui Medical University), Hefei, China
| | - Kaijuan Wang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract (Anhui Medical University), Hefei, China
| | - Qi Zhu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract (Anhui Medical University), Hefei, China
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Fangfang Ding
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Bihua Rao
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Rufeng Xue
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract (Anhui Medical University), Hefei, China
| | - Jing Peng
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Qiushuang Wang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Yunxia Cao
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract (Anhui Medical University), Hefei, China
| | - Weiwei Zou
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract (Anhui Medical University), Hefei, China
- *Correspondence: Zhiguo Zhang, ; Beili Chen, ; Weiwei Zou,
| | - Beili Chen
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract (Anhui Medical University), Hefei, China
- *Correspondence: Zhiguo Zhang, ; Beili Chen, ; Weiwei Zou,
| | - Zhiguo Zhang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract (Anhui Medical University), Hefei, China
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- *Correspondence: Zhiguo Zhang, ; Beili Chen, ; Weiwei Zou,
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Zhang Z, Guo Q, Jia L, Zhou C, He S, Fang C, Zhang M, Sun P, Zeng Z, Wang M, Wang D, Liang X. A novel gene mutation in ZP3 loop region identified in patients with empty follicle syndrome. Hum Mutat 2021; 43:180-188. [PMID: 34816529 DOI: 10.1002/humu.24297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Revised: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
The zona pellucida (ZP) is an extracellular matrix surrounding mammalian oocytes. It is composed of three to four glycoproteins, ZP1-ZP4. ZP3 is essential for sperm binding and zona matrix formation. Here, we identified a novel heterozygous mutation (NM_001110354.2:c.502_504delGAG) of ZP3, occurring in a pair of sisters with empty follicle syndrome (EFS). A mouse model with the same mutation was established using the CRISPR/Cas9 gene-editing system. As in the above family, F0 -, F1 -, and F2 -generation female mice with the mutation were all infertile. Further analysis using the Chinese hamster ovary cells (CHO-K1) also showed that this mutation weakens the strength of binding between ZP3 and ZP2, which hinders the assembly of ZP and results in unstable ZP formation. Immunohistochemical analysis using ovarian serial sections in both humans and mice demonstrated that the ZP of preantral follicles was thinner than normal control, or even absent. Our study presents a new gene mutation that leads to EFS, providing new evidence and support for the genetic diagnosis of infertile individuals with similar phenotypes. Our results also show that the loop of ZP3 is not only a linker between two amphiphilic helices but may play a critical role in specifying the correct heterodimerization partner.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhiqiang Zhang
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Center of Reproductive Medicine, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qi Guo
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Center of Reproductive Medicine, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lei Jia
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Center of Reproductive Medicine, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chuanchuan Zhou
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Center of Reproductive Medicine, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shujing He
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Center of Reproductive Medicine, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Cong Fang
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Center of Reproductive Medicine, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Minfang Zhang
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Center of Reproductive Medicine, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Peng Sun
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Center of Reproductive Medicine, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhi Zeng
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Center of Reproductive Medicine, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Meng Wang
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Center of Reproductive Medicine, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Dandan Wang
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Center of Reproductive Medicine, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoyan Liang
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Center of Reproductive Medicine, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Siristatidis C, Tzanakaki D, Simopoulou M, Vaitsopoulou C, Tsioulou P, Stavros S, Papapanou M, Drakakis P, Bakas P, Vlahos N. Empty Zona Pellucida Only Case: A Critical Review of the Literature. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18179409. [PMID: 34501995 PMCID: PMC8430770 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18179409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2021] [Revised: 08/21/2021] [Accepted: 09/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The presence of empty zona pellucida (EZP) in oocytes following oocyte retrieval (OR) during an in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycle presents a major clinical and laboratory challenge in assisted reproduction. It has been attributed to several factors such as the ovarian stimulation protocol employed, the damaging of the follicles during oocyte retrieval (OR) mainly through the high aspiration pressure, during the denudation technique, and the degeneration of oolemma within the zona pellucida (ZP) through apoptosis. The role of ZP is pivotal from the early stages of follicular development up to the preimplantation embryo development and embryo hatching. Polymorphisms or alterations on the genes that encode ZP proteins may contribute to EZP. We present a critical review of the published literature hitherto on EZP and available options when encountered with the phenomenon of EZP. Concerning the former, we found that there is rare data on this phenomenon that merits documentation. The latter includes technical, genetic, and pathophysiological perspectives, along with specific treatment options. In conclusion, we identify the lack of a definitive management proposal for couples presenting with this phenomenon, we underline the need for an algorithm, and indicate the questions raised that point towards our goal for a strategy when addressing a previous finding of EZP.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Charalampos Siristatidis
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aretaieion Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11528 Athens, Greece; (D.T.); (M.S.); (C.V.); (P.T.); (P.B.); (N.V.)
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aretaieion Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11528 Athens, Greece;
- Correspondence: or ; Tel.: +0030-6932294994
| | - Despoina Tzanakaki
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aretaieion Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11528 Athens, Greece; (D.T.); (M.S.); (C.V.); (P.T.); (P.B.); (N.V.)
| | - Mara Simopoulou
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aretaieion Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11528 Athens, Greece; (D.T.); (M.S.); (C.V.); (P.T.); (P.B.); (N.V.)
| | - Christina Vaitsopoulou
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aretaieion Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11528 Athens, Greece; (D.T.); (M.S.); (C.V.); (P.T.); (P.B.); (N.V.)
| | - Petroula Tsioulou
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aretaieion Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11528 Athens, Greece; (D.T.); (M.S.); (C.V.); (P.T.); (P.B.); (N.V.)
| | - Sofoklis Stavros
- Molecular Biology of Reproduction Unit and Recurrent Abortions Unit, Assisted Reproduction Unit, First Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Alexandra Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11528 Athens, Greece; (S.S.); (P.D.)
| | - Michail Papapanou
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aretaieion Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11528 Athens, Greece;
| | - Peter Drakakis
- Molecular Biology of Reproduction Unit and Recurrent Abortions Unit, Assisted Reproduction Unit, First Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Alexandra Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11528 Athens, Greece; (S.S.); (P.D.)
| | - Panagiotis Bakas
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aretaieion Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11528 Athens, Greece; (D.T.); (M.S.); (C.V.); (P.T.); (P.B.); (N.V.)
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aretaieion Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11528 Athens, Greece;
| | - Nikolaos Vlahos
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aretaieion Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11528 Athens, Greece; (D.T.); (M.S.); (C.V.); (P.T.); (P.B.); (N.V.)
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aretaieion Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11528 Athens, Greece;
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Zona Pellucida Genes and Proteins: Essential Players in Mammalian Oogenesis and Fertility. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:genes12081266. [PMID: 34440440 PMCID: PMC8391237 DOI: 10.3390/genes12081266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2021] [Revised: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
All mammalian oocytes and eggs are surrounded by a relatively thick extracellular matrix (ECM), the zona pellucida (ZP), that plays vital roles during oogenesis, fertilization, and preimplantation development. Unlike ECM surrounding somatic cells, the ZP is composed of only a few glycosylated proteins, ZP1–4, that are unique to oocytes and eggs. ZP1–4 have a large region of polypeptide, the ZP domain (ZPD), consisting of two subdomains, ZP-N and ZP-C, separated by a short linker region, that plays an essential role in polymerization of nascent ZP proteins into crosslinked fibrils. Both subdomains adopt immunoglobulin (Ig)-like folds for their 3-dimensional structure. Mouse and human ZP genes are encoded by single-copy genes located on different chromosomes and are highly expressed in the ovary by growing oocytes during late stages of oogenesis. Genes encoding ZP proteins are conserved among mammals, and their expression is regulated by cis-acting sequences located close to the transcription start-site and by the same/similar trans-acting factors. Nascent ZP proteins are synthesized, packaged into vesicles, secreted into the extracellular space, and assembled into long, crosslinked fibrils that have a structural repeat, a ZP2-ZP3 dimer, and constitute the ZP matrix. Fibrils are oriented differently with respect to the oolemma in the inner and outer layers of the ZP. Sequence elements in the ZPD and the carboxy-terminal propeptide of ZP1–4 regulate secretion and assembly of nascent ZP proteins. The presence of both ZP2 and ZP3 is required to assemble ZP fibrils and ZP1 and ZP4 are used to crosslink the fibrils. Inactivation of mouse ZP genes by gene targeting has a detrimental effect on ZP formation around growing oocytes and female fertility. Gene sequence variations in human ZP genes due to point, missense, or frameshift mutations also have a detrimental effect on ZP formation and female fertility. The latter mutations provide additional support for the role of ZPD subdomains and other regions of ZP polypeptide in polymerization of human ZP proteins into fibrils and matrix.
Collapse
|
25
|
Sang Q, Zhou Z, Mu J, Wang L. Genetic factors as potential molecular markers of human oocyte and embryo quality. J Assist Reprod Genet 2021; 38:993-1002. [PMID: 33895934 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-021-02196-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 04/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Successful human reproduction requires gamete maturation, fertilization, and early embryonic development. Human oocyte maturation includes nuclear and cytoplasmic maturation, and abnormalities in the process will lead to infertility and recurrent failure of IVF/ICSI attempts. In addition, the quality of oocytes/embryos in the clinic can only be determined by morphological markers, and there is currently a lack of molecular markers for determining oocyte quality. As the number of patients undergoing IVF/ICSI has increased, many patients have been identified with recurrent IVF/ICSI failure. However, the genetic basis behind this phenotype remains largely unknown. In recent years, a few mutant genes have been identified by us and others, which provide potential molecular markers for determining the quality of oocytes/embryos. In this review, we outline the genetic determinants of abnormalities in the processes of oocyte maturation, fertilization, and early embryonic development. Currently, 16 genes (PATL2, TUBB8, TRIP13, ZP1, ZP2, ZP3, PANX1, TLE6, WEE2, CDC20, BTG4, PADI6, NLRP2, NLRP5, KHDC3L, and REC114) have been reported to be the causes of oocyte maturation arrest, fertilization failure, embryonic arrest, and preimplantation embryonic lethality. These abnormalities mainly have Mendelian inheritance patterns, including both dominant inheritance and recessive inheritance, although in some cases de novo mutations have also appeared. In this review, we will introduce the effects of each gene in the specific processes of human early reproduction and will summarize all known variants in these genes and their corresponding phenotypes. Variants in some genes have specific effects on certain steps in the early human reproductive processes, while other variants result in a spectrum of phenotypes. These variants and genetic markers will lay the foundation for individualized genetic counseling and potential treatments for patients and will be the target for precision treatments in reproductive medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qing Sang
- Institute of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, the Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, and the State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
| | - Zhou Zhou
- Institute of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, the Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, and the State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Jian Mu
- Institute of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, the Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, and the State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Lei Wang
- Institute of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, the Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, and the State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
New Insights into the Mammalian Egg Zona Pellucida. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22063276. [PMID: 33806989 PMCID: PMC8005149 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22063276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Mammalian oocytes are surrounded by an extracellular coat called the zona pellucida (ZP), which, from an evolutionary point of view, is the most ancient of the coats that envelope vertebrate oocytes and conceptuses. This matrix separates the oocyte from cumulus cells and is responsible for species-specific recognition between gametes, preventing polyspermy and protecting the preimplantation embryo. The ZP is a dynamic structure that shows different properties before and after fertilization. Until very recently, mammalian ZP was believed to be composed of only three glycoproteins, ZP1, ZP2 and ZP3, as first described in mouse. However, studies have revealed that this composition is not necessarily applicable to other mammals. Such differences can be explained by an analysis of the molecular evolution of the ZP gene family, during which ZP genes have suffered pseudogenization and duplication events that have resulted in differing models of ZP protein composition. The many discoveries made in recent years related to ZP composition and evolution suggest that a compilation would be useful. Moreover, this review analyses ZP biosynthesis, the role of each ZP protein in different mammalian species and how these proteins may interact among themselves and with other proteins present in the oviductal lumen.
Collapse
|
27
|
Wang J, Yang X, Sun X, Ma L, Yin Y, He G, Zhang Y, Zhou J, Cai L, Liu J, Ma X. A novel homozygous nonsense mutation in zona pellucida 1 (ZP1) causes human female empty follicle syndrome. J Assist Reprod Genet 2021; 38:1459-1468. [PMID: 33665726 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-021-02136-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To identify a pathogenic gene mutation in a female infertility proband characterized by empty follicle syndrome (EFS) and explore the genetic cause of EFS. METHODS Whole exome sequencing (WES) was performed to identify the candidate pathogenic mutation. Sanger sequencing was used to validate the mutation in family members. The pathogenicity of the identified variant and its possible effects on the protein were evaluated with in silico tools. Immunofluorescence staining was used to study the possible mechanism of the mutation on affected oocyte. RESULTS We identified a family with a novel homozygous nonsense mutation in zona pellucida 1 (ZP1) (c.199G > T [p.Glu67Ter]). Based on bioinformatics analysis, the mutation was predicted to be pathogenic. This variant generates a premature stop codon in exon 2 at the 199th nucleotide, and was inferred to result in a truncated ZP1 protein of 67 amino acids at the ZP-N1 domain. An in vitro study showed that the oocyte of the EFS proband was degenerated and the zona pellucida was absent. Additionally, the mutant ZP1 proteins were localized in the cytoplasm of the degenerated oocyte but not at the surface. CONCLUSIONS The novel mutation in ZP1 is a genetic cause of female infertility characterized by EFS. Our finding expands the genetic spectrum for EFS and will help justify the EFS diagnosis in patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jing Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Clinical Center of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, China
| | - Xiaoyu Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Clinical Center of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, China
| | - Xueping Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Clinical Center of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, China
| | - Long Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Clinical Center of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, China
| | - Yaoxue Yin
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Clinical Center of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, China
| | - Guoxiang He
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Clinical Center of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, China
| | - Yuan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Clinical Center of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, China
| | - Jie Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Clinical Center of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, China
| | - Lingbo Cai
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Clinical Center of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, China
| | - Jiayin Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Clinical Center of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, China
| | - Xiang Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Clinical Center of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, China.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Wang S, Gong Y, Wang Z, Greenbaum J, Xiao HM, Deng HW. Cell-specific network analysis of human folliculogenesis reveals network rewiring in antral stage oocytes. J Cell Mol Med 2021; 25:2851-2860. [PMID: 33599396 PMCID: PMC7957178 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.16315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2020] [Revised: 01/03/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Although previous studies have explored the gene expression profiles of human oocytes and granulosa cells by single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq), the dynamic regulatory network at a single-cell resolution during folliculogenesis remains largely unknown. We identified 10 functional modules by WGCNA, four of which were significantly correlated with primary/antral oocyte and antral/pre-ovulatory granulosa cells. Functional enrichment analysis showed that the brown module, which was correlated with antral oocyte, was enriched in oocyte differentiation, and two core subnetworks identified by MCODE were involved in cell cycle (blue subnetwork) and oogenesis (red subnetwork). The cell-specific network (CSN) analysis demonstrated a distinct gene network structure associated with the antral follicular stage, which was notably different from other developmental stages. To our knowledge, this is the first study to explore gene functions during folliculogenesis at single-cell network level. We uncovered two potential gene subnetworks, which may play an important role in oocyte function beginning at the antral stage, and further established their rewiring process at intra-network/whole transcriptome level. The findings provide crucial insights from a novel network perspective to be further explored in functional mechanistic studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shengran Wang
- Center for System Biology, Data Sciences and Reproductive Health, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Yun Gong
- Tulane Center of Biomedical Informatics and Genomics, Deming Department of Medicine, Tulane University School of Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Zun Wang
- Xiangya Nursing School, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jonathan Greenbaum
- Tulane Center of Biomedical Informatics and Genomics, Deming Department of Medicine, Tulane University School of Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Hong-Mei Xiao
- Institute of Reproductive & Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Center of Reproductive Health, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Hong-Wen Deng
- Center for System Biology, Data Sciences and Reproductive Health, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Tulane Center of Biomedical Informatics and Genomics, Deming Department of Medicine, Tulane University School of Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
A novel homozygous variant in ZP2 causes abnormal zona pellucida formation and female infertility. J Assist Reprod Genet 2021; 38:1239-1245. [PMID: 33604805 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-021-02107-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE We aimed to identify pathogenic variants in two infertile sisters in a family with a thin zona pellucida (ZP) phenotype. METHODS Whole-exome sequencing was performed in the two affected sisters, and Sanger sequencing was used to confirm the identified variants. The effects of the identified variant were further investigated in mouse oocytes and Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells. RESULTS We identified a novel homozygous frameshift variant in ZP2 (c.1235_1236del, p.Q412Rfs*17) in the two affected individuals. Immunoblotting demonstrated that the variant produced a truncated ZP2 protein that was expressed at low levels in CHO cells. Immunofluorescence in mouse oocytes confirmed the decreased protein level of mutant ZP2, although the subcellular localization was not affected. In addition, immunoprecipitation showed that the pathogenic variant reduced the interaction between ZP2 and ZP3. CONCLUSION This study identified a novel pathogenic variant in ZP2 that produces a truncated ZP2 protein. The variant might disrupt the assembly of ZP2-ZP3 dimers, thus resulting in a thin ZP and female infertility.
Collapse
|
30
|
Wu L, Li M, Yin M, Ou Y, Yan Z, Kuang Y, Yan Z, Li B. Novel mutations in ZP1: Expanding the mutational spectrum associated with empty follicle syndrome in infertile women. Clin Genet 2021; 99:583-587. [PMID: 33423275 DOI: 10.1111/cge.13921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2020] [Revised: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 01/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Empty follicle syndrome (EFS) is a serious and complex reproductive complication for infertile women suffering from the recurrent failure of oocyte retrieval in an in vitro fertilization procedure, and its pathogenesis remains obscure. Increasing evidence highlights the genetic basis of EFS occurrence. In this study, we identified two novel missense mutations (c.1127G > A, p.C376Y and c.325C > T, p.R109C), two novel frameshift mutations (c.800_801delAG, p.E267Gfs*80 and c.1815_1825delGGTCCTTTTGC, p.V606Afs*42), one novel nonsense mutation (c.199G > T, p.E67Ter), and three reported mutations (c.769C > T, p.Q257Ter; c.1430 + 1G > T, p.C478Ter and c.1169_1176delTTTTCCCA, p.I390Tfs*16) in five unrelated probands, showing similar EFS manifestations, which expands the mutational spectrum of individuals with autosomal recessive ZP1. Current research will provide a better understanding of the biological functions of ZP1, and some insight into the determination of ZP1 variation as an additional rule for assessing the EFS disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ling Wu
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Menghui Li
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Mingru Yin
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yangjie Ou
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhiguang Yan
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yanping Kuang
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Zheng Yan
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Bin Li
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Yang P, Chen T, Liu Y, Hou Z, Wu K, Cao Y, Zhang J, Wang Z, Zhao H. The critical role of ZP genes in female infertility characterized by empty follicle syndrome and oocyte degeneration. Fertil Steril 2020; 115:1259-1269. [PMID: 33272616 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2020.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2020] [Revised: 10/29/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To identify the major causative gene(s) of genuine empty follicle syndrome (GEFS) characterized by oocyte degeneration. DESIGN Genetic and functional studies. SETTING University-based reproductive medicine center. PATIENT(S) Thirty-five unrelated women with GEFS and oocyte degeneration. INTERVENTION(S) Whole-exome sequencing (WES) and targeted Sanger sequencing. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Variants predicted by software and the functional effects of variants assessed via Western blot and immunofluorescence in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells. RESULT(S) We identified zona pellucida (ZP) gene variants in 18 individuals, which included 20 variants in the ZP1 gene, two variants in the ZP2 gene, and one previously reported recurrent variant in the ZP3 gene. The women carrying ZP variants constituted 51.43% of the GEFS cohort. The ZP1 variants were inherited in an autosomal recessive pattern; the ZP2 and ZP3 variants were inherited in an autosomal dominant pattern. All variants were predicted to be deleterious. Studies in CHO cells suggested that most ZP1 variants led to increased intracytoplasmic protein and some variants influenced the intracellular transportation of other ZP proteins. Variant p.R642Q of ZP2 caused the secretion of ZP2 protein with an increased molecular weight, suggesting altered protein modification. Variant p.I619N of ZP2 resulted in increased ZP2 protein in cell lysate and decreased ZP2 protein in culture medium. These results showed that ZP variants might block the intracellular transportation and secretion of ZP proteins and disrupt the zona pellucida. CONCLUSION(S) We identified novel variants of ZP genes in more than half the cohort with GEFS and oocyte degeneration. Variants of ZP genes caused protein intracellular sequestration and failure to assemble the ZP filaments, resulting in EFS and female infertility. Our findings not only reveal the critical roles of ZP genes but also pave the way for the efficient genetic diagnosis of females with GEFS and oocyte degeneration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ping Yang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, People's Republic of China
| | - Tailai Chen
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuqing Liu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhenzhen Hou
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, People's Republic of China
| | - Keliang Wu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, People's Republic of China
| | - Yongzhi Cao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiangtao Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhao Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, People's Republic of China
| | - Han Zhao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Zhang D, Zhu L, Liu Z, Ren X, Yang X, Li D, Luo Y, Peng X, Zhou X, Jia W, Hou M, Li Z, Jin L, Zhang X. A novel mutation in ZP3 causes empty follicle syndrome and abnormal zona pellucida formation. J Assist Reprod Genet 2020; 38:251-259. [PMID: 33140178 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-020-01995-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To identify disease-causing genes involved in female infertility. METHODS Whole-exome sequencing and Sanger DNA sequencing were used to identify the mutations in disease-causing genes. We performed subcellular protein localization, western immunoblotting analysis, and co-immunoprecipitation analysis to evaluate the effects of the mutation. RESULTS We investigated 17 families with female infertility. Whole-exome and Sanger DNA sequencing were used to characterize the disease gene in the patients, and we identified a novel heterozygous mutation (p.Ser173Cys, c.518C > G) in the ZP3 gene in a patient with empty follicle syndrome. When we performed co-immunoprecipitation analysis, we found that the S173C mutation affected interactions between ZP3 and ZP2. CONCLUSIONS We identified a novel mutation in the ZP3 gene in a Chinese family with female infertility. Our findings thus expand the mutational and phenotypical spectrum of the ZP3 gene, and they will be helpful in precisely diagnosing this aspect of female infertility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dazhi Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Center for Human Genome Research, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Lixia Zhu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Zhenxing Liu
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Center for Human Genome Research, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Xinling Ren
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Xue Yang
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Center for Human Genome Research, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Dan Li
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Yalin Luo
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Center for Human Genome Research, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Xuejie Peng
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Center for Human Genome Research, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Xiaopei Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Center for Human Genome Research, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Weimin Jia
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Center for Human Genome Research, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Meiqi Hou
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Center for Human Genome Research, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Zhou Li
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China.
| | - Lei Jin
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Xianqin Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Center for Human Genome Research, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China.
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Cao Q, Zhao C, Zhang X, Zhang H, Lu Q, Wang C, Hu Y, Ling X, Zhang J, Huo R. Heterozygous mutations in ZP1 and ZP3 cause formation disorder of ZP and female infertility in human. J Cell Mol Med 2020; 24:8557-8566. [PMID: 32573113 PMCID: PMC7412702 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.15482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2020] [Revised: 04/30/2020] [Accepted: 05/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The human zona pellucida (ZP) is a highly organized glycoprotein matrix that encircles oocytes and plays an essential role in successful reproduction. Previous studies have reported that mutations in human ZP1, ZP2 and ZP3 influence their functions and result in a lack of ZP or in an abnormal oocytes and empty follicle syndrome, which leads to female infertility. Here, we performed whole‐exome sequencing in two probands with primary infertility whose oocytes lacked a ZP, and we identified a heterozygous mutation in ZP1 (NM_207341:c.326G>A p.Arg109His), which is situated in the N‐terminus, and a heterozygous mutation in ZP3 (NM_001110354:c.400G>A p.Ala134Thr), which is situated in the ZP domain. The effects of the mutations were investigated through structure prediction and in vitro studies in HeLa cells. The results, which were in line with the phenotype, suggested that these mutations might impede the function of cross‐linking and secretion of ZP proteins. Our study showed that the two mutations in ZP1 and ZP3 influenced the formation of the ZP, causing female infertility. Meanwhile, these data highlight the importance of the ZP1 N‐terminus in addition to the conserved domains for ZP1 function and ZP formation. Additionally, the patient with the ZP1 mutation delivered a baby following intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI); thus, we suggest the targeted genetic diagnosis of ZP genes to choose appropriate fertilization methods and improve the success rate of assisted reproductive technology (ART) treatments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qiqi Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Chun Zhao
- Department of Reproduction, The Affiliated Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiaolan Zhang
- Department of Reproduction, The Affiliated Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | - Heng Zhang
- Department of Biological Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Qianneng Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Congjing Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yue Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiufeng Ling
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,Department of Reproduction, The Affiliated Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | - Junqiang Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,Department of Reproduction, The Affiliated Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | - Ran Huo
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Litscher ES, Wassarman PM. Zona pellucida genes and proteins and human fertility. TRENDS IN DEVELOPMENTAL BIOLOGY 2020; 13:21-33. [PMID: 33335361 PMCID: PMC7743998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The zona pellucida (ZP) is an extracellular matrix (ECM) that surrounds all mammalian oocytes, eggs, and embryos and plays vital roles during oogenesis, fertilization, and preimplantation development. The mouse and human ZP is composed of three or four unique proteins, respectively, called ZP1-4, that are synthesized, processed, and secreted by oocytes during their growth phase. All ZP proteins have a zona pellucida domain (ZPD) that consists of ≈270 amino acids and has 8 conserved Cys residues present as four intramolecular disulfides. Secreted ZP proteins assemble into long fibrils around growing oocytes with ZP2-ZP3 dimers located periodically along the fibrils. The fibrils are cross-linked by ZP1 to form a thick, transparent ECM to which sperm must first bind and then penetrate during fertilization of eggs. Inactivation of mouse ZP1, ZP2, or ZP3 by gene targeting affects both ZP formation around oocytes and fertility. Female mice with eggs that lack a ZP due to inactivation of either ZP2 or ZP3 are completely infertile, whereas inactivation of ZP1 results in construction of an abnormal ZP and reduced fertility. Results of a large number of studies of infertile female patients strongly suggest that gene sequence variations (GSV) in human ZP1, ZP2, or ZP3 due to point, missense, or frameshift mutations have similar deleterious effects on ZP formation and female fertility. These findings are discussed in light of our current knowledge of ZP protein synthesis, processing, secretion, and assembly.
Collapse
|