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Fedorka CE, El-Sheikh-Ali H, Scoggin KE, Coleman S, Humphrey EA, Troutt L, Troedsson MHT. The Effect of Seminal Plasma on the Equine Endometrial Transcriptome. Reprod Domest Anim 2024; 59:e14711. [PMID: 39246124 DOI: 10.1111/rda.14711] [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: 07/23/2024] [Revised: 08/08/2024] [Accepted: 08/11/2024] [Indexed: 09/10/2024]
Abstract
The establishment of pregnancy involves a fine-tuned balance between protection and tolerance within the maternal immune system, as the female needs to accept a foreign antigen (the semi-allogenic fetus) while still being able to combat pathogens from the uterus. In the horse, the first uterine exposure to paternal antigens is during mating when sperm is introduced to the tissue and draining lymphatics of the uterus. Additionally, it has been suggested that seminal plasma and its proteins within it play an essential role in preparing the female tract for a suitable immunologic environment but this has not been confirmed in the horse. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate the endometrial transcriptome following insemination either with seminal plasma or with reduced seminal plasma. We hypothesised that reduced seminal plasma would alter the endometrial transcriptome and affect transcripts relating to immunotolerance, antigen presentation and embryo growth and development. To do so, six (n = 6) mares were inseminated in a randomised switch-back design over the course of four oestrous cycles. Mares were rectally palpated and scanned via ultrasonography for the detection of a pre-ovulatory follicle (>35 mm) alongside increasing uterine oedema and relaxed cervix, and then treated with one of four treatment groups including (1) 30 mL lactated Ringers solution (LRS; NegCon), (2) 500 × 106 spermatozoa in conjunction with 30 mL seminal plasma (SP+), (3) 30 mL lactated Ringers solution (LRS; wash out) and (4) 500 × 106 spermatozoa with seminal plasma reduced via gradient centrifugation and resuspended in 30 mL LRS (SP-). Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) was administered to standardise the time to ovulation and endometrial biopsies were collected 7 days after insemination. RNA was isolated utilising Trizol, and RNA-Seq was performed by Novogene, with 97.79% total mapping and 40 million read depth. p value was set to <0.05. When comparing SP+ to SP-, 158 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified. Biological processes impacted included antigen processing and regulation, cholesterol synthesis, and immune/inflammatory response. Gene ontology (GO) enrichment analysis using DAVID v6.8 revealed that many of these DEGs were involved in biological process such as antigen presentation (HLA-DM beta chain, HLA-DRB, HLA-DQA and RASGRP1), immune cell signalling (CXCL9, CXCL1, DEFB1 and MIP-2B), embryo growth and development (INHA, KLF2, RDH10, LAMA3 and SLC34A2) and embryo metabolism (ABCA1, ABCA2, APOA1, LDL, INSR, IGFBP2 and IGFBP3). Overall, reduction of seminal plasma from the insemination dose impacted the endometrial transcriptome at the time of early embryonic exposure to the uterine environment. Further work is justified to evaluate these alterations impact on embryo maturation, placental development, pregnancy outcome and development of offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- C E Fedorka
- Department of Animal Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
| | - H El-Sheikh-Ali
- Department of Veterinary Science, Gluck Equine Research Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| | - K E Scoggin
- Department of Veterinary Science, Gluck Equine Research Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| | - S Coleman
- Department of Animal Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
| | - E A Humphrey
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Lincoln Memorial University, Harrogate, Tennessee, USA
| | - L Troutt
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Lincoln Memorial University, Harrogate, Tennessee, USA
| | - M H T Troedsson
- Department of Veterinary Science, Gluck Equine Research Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
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Lection J, Wagner B, Byron M, Miller A, Rollins A, Chenier T, Cheong SH, Diel de Amorim M. Inflammatory markers for differentiation of endometritis in the mare. Equine Vet J 2024; 56:678-687. [PMID: 38219734 DOI: 10.1111/evj.14058] [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: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Endometrial biopsy is required to diagnose mares with chronic endometritis and endometrial degenerative fibrosis. An increase in understanding of equine reproductive immunology could be utilised to create less-invasive, time-efficient diagnostic tools especially when evaluating mares for chronic endometritis. OBJECTIVES To evaluate inflammatory cytokine and chemokine concentrations in uterine fluid samples collected by low-volume lavage (LVL) as a potential screening diagnostic biomarker for endometritis. STUDY DESIGN Prospective cross-sectional clinical study. METHODS Forty-six mares underwent a LVL and subsequently endometrial biopsy. Mares were split in three groups: healthy, acute endometritis, and chronic endometrial fibrosis (CEF) based on cytological and histological evaluation. A fluorescent bead-based multiplex assay for IFN-γ, IFN-α, IL-1β, IL-4, IL-10, IL-17, sCD14, TNF-α, CCL2, CCL3, CCL5 and CCL11 were carried out on the LVL fluid. The endometrial biopsy was utilised for histology and qPCR of IFN-γ, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, IL-17, TNF-α, CCL2 and CCL3 genes. Statistical analyses examined differences in inflammatory markers and predictive modelling for diseased endometrium. RESULTS Secreted concentrations of IFN-γ were lower in LVL fluid from reproductively healthy mares compared with acute endometritis (p = 0.04) and CEF (p = 0.006). Additionally, IL-17, IL-10, IL-1β, TNF-α, CCL2, CCL3, CCL5 and CCL11 were significantly increased (p ≤ 0.04) in LVL from CEF mares compared with healthy mares. Mares with CCL2 concentrations ≥550 pg/mL (14/14) had 100% probability of having CEF and/or acute endometritis. Healthy mares had lower relative abundance of IL-17 mRNA compared with mares in CEF group [median (interquartile rage) = 14.76 (13.3, 15.3) and 12.4 (10.54, 13.81)], respectively (p = 0.02). MAIN LIMITATIONS Limited sample size: larger numbers of mares with and without endometritis are required and reference intervals in LVL samples have to be established. CONCLUSIONS Inflammatory chemokines and cytokines concentrations differed between healthy mares and mares with acute endometritis or CEF in LVL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennine Lection
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
| | - Bettina Wagner
- Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
| | - Michael Byron
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
| | - Andrew Miller
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
| | - Alicia Rollins
- Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
| | - Tracey Chenier
- Department of Population Medicine, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Soon Hon Cheong
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
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Shen Q, Wu X, Chen J, He C, Wang Z, Zhou B, Zhang H. Immune Regulation of Seminal Plasma on the Endometrial Microenvironment: Physiological and Pathological Conditions. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14639. [PMID: 37834087 PMCID: PMC10572377 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241914639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 09/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Seminal plasma (SP) accounts for more than 90% of semen volume. It induces inflammation, regulates immune tolerance, and facilitates embryonic development and implantation in the female reproductive tract. In the physiological state, SP promotes endometrial decidualization and causes changes in immune cells such as macrophages, natural killer cells, regulatory T cells, and dendritic cells. This leads to the secretion of cytokines and chemokines and also results in the alteration of miRNA profiles and the expression of genes related to endometrial tolerance and angiogenesis. Together, these changes modulate the endometrial immune microenvironment and contribute to implantation and pregnancy. However, in pathological situations, abnormal alterations in SP due to advanced age or poor diet in men can interfere with a woman's immune adaptation to pregnancy, negatively affecting embryo implantation and even the health of the offspring. Uterine pathologies such as endometriosis and endometritis can cause the endometrium to respond negatively to SP, which can further contribute to pathological progress and interfere with conception. The research on the mechanism of SP in the endometrium is conducive to the development of new targets for intervention to improve reproductive outcomes and may also provide new ideas for semen-assisted treatment of clinical infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiuzi Shen
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; (Q.S.); (X.W.); (J.C.); (C.H.)
| | - Xiaoyu Wu
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; (Q.S.); (X.W.); (J.C.); (C.H.)
| | - Jin Chen
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; (Q.S.); (X.W.); (J.C.); (C.H.)
| | - Chao He
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; (Q.S.); (X.W.); (J.C.); (C.H.)
| | - Zehao Wang
- School of Management, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China;
| | - Boyan Zhou
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; (Q.S.); (X.W.); (J.C.); (C.H.)
| | - Huiping Zhang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; (Q.S.); (X.W.); (J.C.); (C.H.)
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Pascottini OB, Aurich C, England G, Grahofer A. General and comparative aspects of endometritis in domestic species: A review. Reprod Domest Anim 2023; 58 Suppl 2:49-71. [PMID: 37191856 DOI: 10.1111/rda.14390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Endometritis is a leading cause of sub- and infertility in domestic animal species. The healthy uterus is colonized by commensal bacteria, viruses and yeast/fungi that represent the nonpathogenic microbiota. A shift in the number or type of organisms accompanied by immune dysfunction, however, may trigger uterine infection and inflammation. Metritis is associated with inflammation of all uterine layers (endometrium, myometrium and perimetrium), whereas endometritis is a more superficial inflammation involving solely the endometrium. Endometritis generally occurs at two time points in domestic animal species, postpartum and postmating. Postpartum endometritis may chronically persist, either as a low-grade disease that often manifests as a vaginal discharge but not a systemic illness (in some species termed clinical endometritis) or sometimes subclinical where features are only detected by endometrial sampling. Contamination of the uterus at the time of mating occurs by direct deposition of semen (ejaculated or artificially inseminated) into the uterus. Improper drainage of the ejaculatory fluid or an inadequate immune response may result in persistent mating-induced endometritis. Both postpartum and postmating endometritis interferes with fertility by creating a suboptimal environment for embryo development and placentation, and chronic endometritis may have an impact on sperm survival and fertilization ability. In the postpartum animal, there may also be changes in milk production and maternal behaviour, which can affect offspring health and survival. Preventive strategies for endometritis largely depend on monitoring their known risk factors, which are sometimes specific with regard to the species. Effective, nonantibiotic therapy for endometritis is not available to date. Overall, extensive research has been performed in cattle and horses to unravel key aspects of endometritis, but in sows and bitches, the available literature is scant. Thus, the need and opportunity to investigate the condition vary considerably among domestic species and necessitate their comparative assessment. This article reviews general and comparative aspects of the diagnosis and classification, pathogenesis, preventive strategies and therapeutics of endometritis in domestic species with a specific focus on cows, mares, sows and bitches.
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Affiliation(s)
- O Bogado Pascottini
- Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - C Aurich
- Artificial Insemination and Embryo Transfer, Department for Small Animals and Horses, Vetmeduni Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - G England
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Leicestershire, UK
| | - A Grahofer
- Clinic for Swine, Department for Clinical Veterinary Medicine, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
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Bovine lactoferrin suppresses inflammatory cytokine expression in endometrial stromal cells in chronic endometritis. J Reprod Immunol 2022; 154:103761. [PMID: 36403531 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2022.103761] [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: 06/07/2022] [Revised: 09/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Chronic endometritis (CE) is a type of chronic inflammation in the endometrium that is associated with infertility, which is primarily due to implantation failure. Antibiotics are the most common treatment for CE. However, some patients with CE are resistant to antibiotic treatment, while others refuse this treatment. Therefore, we focused on lactoferrin (Lf), which exhibits antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, and studied its effect on inflammation in endometrial stromal cells (ESCs) from patients with CE. Endometrial tissue was collected from patients with CE, and ESCs were isolated and cultured. When ESCs were cultured with bovine lactoferrin (bLf: 1 mg/mL), the mRNA expression of TNF-α (p < 0.05) and IL-1β (p < 0.01) was significantly decreased compared with that in cells cultured without bLf. The level of TNF-α protein in the culture medium was significantly decreased (p < 0.01), while that of IL-1β was also decreased, but not significantly (p < 0.10), when 1 mg/mL of bLf was added to the culture medium. When more inflammation was induced artificially by adding 0.1 ng/mL of TNF-αto ESCs, the addition of bLf (1 mg/mL) to ESCs decreased IL-6 and IL-1β mRNA expression to levels similar to those in ESCs without TNF-α treatment. Furthermore, it was revealed that the actions of bLf are mediated by the AKT and MAPK intracellular signaling pathways, which are mechanisms by which the increase in TNF-α-induced cytokine expression is suppressed in ESCs. bLf suppresses the expression of inflammatory cytokines in human ESCs and may be a new therapeutic candidate for CE.
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Fedorka CE, El-Sheikh Ali H, Scoggin KE, Loux SC, Ball BA, Troedsson MHT. Tumor necrosis factor signaling during equine placental infection leads to pro-apoptotic and necroptotic outcomes. J Reprod Immunol 2022; 152:103655. [PMID: 35716439 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2022.103655] [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: 02/08/2022] [Revised: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Ascending placentitis is the leading cause of abortion in the horse. The pleiotropic cytokine tumor necrosis factor (TNF) is an upstream regulator of this disease, but little is understood regarding its function in pregnancy maintenance or placental infection. To assess this, RNA sequencing was performed on chorioallantois and endometrium of healthy pregnant mares at various gestational lengths (n = 4/gestational age), in addition to postpartum chorioallantois, and diestrus endometrium to assess expression of TNF, TNFR-1, and TNFR-2. Additionally, ascending placentitis was induced via trans-cervical inoculation of S. equi spp. zooepidemicus in pregnant mares (n = 6 infected / n = 6 control) and tissues and serum were collected to evaluate TNF-related transcripts. IHC was performed to confirm protein localization of TNFR-1 and TNFR-2. In healthy pregnancy, TNFR-1 appears to be the predominant TNF-related receptor. Following induction of disease, TNF concentrations increased in maternal serum, but expression did not alter at the tissue level. While both TNFR-1 and TNFR-2 increased following induction of disease, alterations in downstream pathways indicate that TNFR-1 is the dominant receptor in ascending placentitis, and is primarily activated within the chorioallantois, with minimal signaling occurring within the endometrium. In conclusion, TNF appears to be involved in the pathophysiology of ascending placentitis. An increase in this cytokine during disease progression is believed to activate TNFR-1 within the chorioallantois, leading to various pro-apoptotic and necroptotic outcomes, all of which may signal for fetal demise and impending abortion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carleigh E Fedorka
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA.
| | - Hossam El-Sheikh Ali
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA; Department of Theriogenology, Mansoura University, Dakahlia, Eqypt
| | - Kirsten E Scoggin
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Shavahn C Loux
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Barry A Ball
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Mats H T Troedsson
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
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Semen Modulates Cell Proliferation and Differentiation-Related Transcripts in the Pig Peri-Ovulatory Endometrium. BIOLOGY 2022; 11:biology11040616. [PMID: 35453814 PMCID: PMC9029625 DOI: 10.3390/biology11040616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2022] [Revised: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 04/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Simple Summary Homeostasis of the uterus after mating is crucial for the subsequent reproductive events. The post-mating inflammatory response is restricted to the uterus, but semen also modulates the expression of other genes involved in regulation along the female reproductive tract, including the oviduct. This study aims to determine if several ejaculate fractions of the pig may modulate cell proliferation and differentiation-related transcripts in different sections of the peri-ovulatory sow reproductive tract. Our data demonstrate that most of the mRNA expression changes of the 144 transcripts tested were induced by mating. Additionally, spermatozoa and seminal plasma also triggered differential expression of the transcripts tested. Finally, our data imply that spermatozoa, seminal plasma components, and the act of mating induce differential mechanisms in the peri-ovulatory female reproductive tract, which are essential for tissue repair. Abstract Uterine homeostasis is maintained after mating by eliminating pathogens, foreign cells, and proteins by a transient inflammation of the uterus. Such inflammation does not occur in the oviductal sperm reservoir (utero-tubal junction, UTJ), colonized by a population of potentially fertile spermatozoa before the inflammatory changes are triggered. Semen entry (spermatozoa and/or seminal plasma) modifies the expression of regulatory genes, including cell proliferation and differentiation-related transcripts. Considering pigs display a fractionated ejaculation, this study aims to determine whether different ejaculate fractions differentially modulate cell proliferation and differentiation-related transcripts in the sow reproductive tract during the peri-ovulatory stage. Using species-specific microarray analyses, the differential expression of 144 cell proliferation and differentiation-related transcripts was studied in specific segments: cervix (Cvx), distal and proximal uterus (DistUt, ProxUt), UTJ, isthmus (Isth), ampulla (Amp), and infundibulum (Inf) of the peri-ovulatory sow reproductive tract in response to semen and/or seminal plasma cervical deposition. Most mRNA expression changes were induced by mating. In addition, while mating upregulates the fibroblast growth factor 1 (FGF1, p-value DistUt = 0.0007; ProxUt = 0.0253) transcript in the endometrium, both its receptor, the fibroblast growth factor receptor 1 (FGFR1, p-value DistUt = 2.14 e−06; ProxUt = 0.0027; UTJ = 0.0458) transcript, and a potentiator of its biological effect, the fibroblast growth factor binding protein 1 (FGFBP1), were downregulated in the endometrium (p-value DistUt = 0.0068; ProxUt = 0.0011) and the UTJ (p-value UTJ = 0.0191). The FGFBP1 was downregulated in the whole oviduct after seminal depositions (p-value Isth = 0.0007; Amp = 0.0007; Inf = 6.87 e−05) and, interestingly, FGFR1 was downregulated in the endometrium in the absence of semen (p-value DistUt = 0.0097; ProxUt = 0.0456). In conclusion, the findings suggest that spermatozoa, seminal components, and the act of mating trigger, besides inflammation, differential mechanisms in the peri-ovulatory female reproductive tract, relevant for tissue repair.
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Gaitskell-Phillips G, Martín-Cano FE, Ortiz-Rodríguez JM, Silva-Rodríguez A, da Silva-Álvarez E, Gil MC, Ortega-Ferrusola C, Peña FJ. The seminal plasma proteins Peptidyl arginine deaminase 2, rRNA adenine N (6)-methyltransferase and KIAA0825 are linked to better motility post thaw in stallions. Theriogenology 2022; 177:94-102. [PMID: 34687941 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2021.10.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Revised: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 10/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Seminal plasma plays an important role in sperm physiology. Seminal plasma proteins vehiculated in microvesicles, carry RNAs and proteins with a potential role in early embryo development. Additionally, proteins present in seminal plasma participate in redox regulation and energy metabolism. In view of these facts, we hypothesized that differences in protein composition of the seminal plasma among stallions may help to explain differences in freeze-ability seen among them. Three independent ejaculates from 10 different stallions of varying breeds were frozen using standard protocols in our laboratory. Aliquots of the ejaculate were separated and stored at -80 °C until further proteomic analysis. Semen analysis was performed using computer assisted sperm analysis and flow cytometry. Significant differences in proteome composition of seminal plasma were observed in the group of stallions showing better motility post thaw. 3116 proteins were identified, and of these, 34 were differentially expressed in stallions with better motility post thaw, 4 of them were also differentially expressed in stallions with different percentages of linearly motile sperm post thaw and 1 protein, Midasin, was expressed in stallions showing high circular velocity post thaw. Seminal plasma proteins may play a major role in sperm functionality; being vehiculated through extracellular vesicles and participating in sperm physiology. Bioinformatic analysis identifies discriminant proteins able to predict the outcome of cryopreservation, identifying potential new biomarkers to assess ejaculate quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gemma Gaitskell-Phillips
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - Francisco E Martín-Cano
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - José M Ortiz-Rodríguez
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - Antonio Silva-Rodríguez
- Facility of Innovation and Analysis in Animal Source Foodstuffs, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - Eva da Silva-Álvarez
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - Maria C Gil
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - Cristina Ortega-Ferrusola
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - Fernando J Peña
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain.
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Gaitskell-Phillips G, Martín-Cano FE, Ortiz-Rodríguez JM, Silva-Rodríguez A, Rodríguez-Martínez H, Gil MC, Ortega-Ferrusola C, Peña FJ. Seminal plasma AnnexinA2 protein is a relevant biomarker for stallions which require removal of seminal plasma for sperm survival upon refrigeration†. Biol Reprod 2020; 103:1275-1288. [PMID: 32857155 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioaa153] [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: 05/19/2020] [Revised: 07/31/2020] [Accepted: 08/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Some stallions yield ejaculates that do not tolerate conservation by refrigeration prior to artificial insemination (AI), showing improvement after removal of most of the seminal plasma (SP) by centrifugation. In this study, the SP-proteome of 10 different stallions was defined through high-performance liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry and bioinformatic analysis in relation to the ability of the ejaculates to maintain semen quality when cooled and stored at 5°C. Stallions were classified into three groups, depending on this ability: those maintaining good quality after direct extension in a commercial extender (good), stallions requiring removal of seminal plasma (RSP) to maintain seminal quality (good-RSP), and stallions, unable to maintain good semen quality even after RSP (poor). Pathway enrichment analysis of the proteins identified in whole equine SP using human orthologs was performed using g: profiler showing enriched Reactome and the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathways related to hexose metabolism, vesicle mediated transport, post translational modification of proteins and immune response. Specific proteins overrepresented in stallions tolerating conservation by refrigeration included a peroxiredoxin-6 like protein, and transcobalamin-2, a primary vitamin B12-binding, and transport protein. Also, the protein involved in protein glycosylation, ST3 beta-galactoside alpha-2,3-sialyltransferase 1 was present in good stallions. These proteins were nearly absent in poor stallions. Particularly, annexinA2 appeared as to be the most powerful discriminant variable for identification of stallions needing RSP prior to refrigeration, with a P = 0.002 and a q value = 0.005. Overall this is the first detailed study of the equine SP-proteome, showing the potential value of specific proteins as discriminant bio-markers for clinical classification of stallions for AI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gemma Gaitskell-Phillips
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - Francisco E Martín-Cano
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - José M Ortiz-Rodríguez
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - Antonio Silva-Rodríguez
- Facility of Innovation and Analysis in Animal Source Foodstuffs, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - Heriberto Rodríguez-Martínez
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences (BKV), Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Maria C Gil
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - Cristina Ortega-Ferrusola
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - Fernando J Peña
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
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10
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Morgan HL, Eid N, Khoshkerdar A, Watkins AJ. Defining the male contribution to embryo quality and offspring health in assisted reproduction in farm animals. Anim Reprod 2020; 17:e20200018. [PMID: 33029211 PMCID: PMC7534566 DOI: 10.1590/1984-3143-ar2020-0018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Assisted reproductive technologies such as artificial insemination have delivered significant benefits for farm animal reproduction. However, as with humans, assisted reproduction in livestock requires the manipulation of the gametes and preimplantation embryo. The significance of this ‘periconception’ period is that it represents the transition from parental genome regulation to that of the newly formed embryo. Environmental perturbations during these early developmental stages can result in persistent changes in embryonic gene expression, fetal organ development and ultimately the long-term health of the offspring. While associations between maternal health and offspring wellbeing are well-defined, the significance of paternal health for the quality of his semen and the post-conception development of his offspring have largely been overlooked. Human and animal model studies have identified sperm epigenetic status (DNA methylation levels, histone modifications and RNA profiles) and seminal plasma-mediated maternal uterine immunological, inflammatory and vascular responses as the two central mechanisms capable of linking paternal health and post-fertilisation development. However, there is a significant knowledge gap about the father’s contribution to the long-term health of his offspring, especially with regard to farm animals. Such insights are essential to ensure the safety of widely used assisted reproductive practices and to gain better understanding of the role of paternal health for the well-being of his offspring. In this article, we will outline the impact of male health on semen quality (both sperm and seminal plasma), reproductive fitness and post-fertilisation offspring development and explore the mechanisms underlying the paternal programming of offspring health in farm animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Louise Morgan
- Division of Child Health, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Queen's Medical Centre, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Nader Eid
- Division of Child Health, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Queen's Medical Centre, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Afsaneh Khoshkerdar
- Division of Child Health, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Queen's Medical Centre, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Adam John Watkins
- Division of Child Health, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Queen's Medical Centre, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
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11
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Recuero S, Sánchez JM, Mateo-Otero Y, Bagés-Arnal S, McDonald M, Behura SK, Spencer TE, Kenny DA, Yeste M, Lonergan P, Fernandez-Fuertes B. Mating to Intact, but Not Vasectomized, Males Elicits Changes in the Endometrial Transcriptome: Insights From the Bovine Model. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:547. [PMID: 32766237 PMCID: PMC7381276 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.00547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2020] [Accepted: 06/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
An appropriate female reproductive environment is essential for pregnancy success. In several species, including mice, pigs and horses, seminal plasma (SP) components have been shown to modulate this environment, leading to increased embryo viability and implantation. Due to the characteristics of mating in the aforementioned species, SP comes into direct contact with the uterus. However, it is questionable whether any SP reaches the uterus in species that ejaculate inside the vagina, such as humans and cattle. Hence, we hypothesized that sperm, perhaps acting as a vehicle for SP factors, play a more important role in the modulation of the maternal uterine environment in these species. In addition, changes elicited by SP and/or sperm may originate in the vagina and propagate to more distal regions of the female reproductive tract. To test these hypotheses, a bovine model in which heifers were mated to intact or vasectomized bulls or were left unmated was used. RNA-sequencing of endometrial samples collected 24 h after mating with a vasectomized bull did not reveal any differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in comparison with control samples. However, the endometrium of heifers mated with intact bulls exhibited 24 DEGs when compared to heifers mated with vasectomized bulls, and 22 DEGs when compared to unmated control heifers. The expression of a set of cytokines (IL6, IL1A, IL8, and TNFA) and candidate genes identified in the endometrial RNA-sequencing (PLA2G10, CX3CL1, C4BPA, PRSS2, BLA-DQB, and CEBPD) were assessed by RT-qPCR in the vagina and oviductal ampulla. No differences in expression of these genes were observed between treatments in any region. However, mating to both intact and vasectomized bulls induced an increase in IL1A and TNFA expression in the vagina compared to the oviduct. These data indicate that sperm, but not secretions from the accessory glands alone, induce modest changes in endometrial gene expression after natural mating in cattle. However, it is not clear whether this effect is triggered by inherent sperm proteins or SP proteins bound to sperm surface at the time of ejaculation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Recuero
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Department of Biology, Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
| | - José María Sánchez
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Yentel Mateo-Otero
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Department of Biology, Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
| | - Sandra Bagés-Arnal
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Michael McDonald
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Susanta K Behura
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
| | - Thomas E Spencer
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
| | - David A Kenny
- Animal and Bioscience Research Centre, Teagasc Grange, Meath, Ireland
| | - Marc Yeste
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Department of Biology, Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
| | - Pat Lonergan
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Beatriz Fernandez-Fuertes
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Department of Biology, Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
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12
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Guasti PN, Souza FF, Scott C, Papa PM, Camargo LS, Schmith RA, Monteiro GA, Hartwig FP, Papa FO. Equine seminal plasma and sperm membrane: Functional proteomic assessment. Theriogenology 2020; 156:70-81. [PMID: 32679458 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.06.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2020] [Revised: 06/06/2020] [Accepted: 06/13/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
During ejaculation, a large amount of seminal plasma proteins interact with the sperm membrane, leading to a series of biochemical and structural changes implicated in sperm function and gamete interaction. However, the roles of the majority of these proteins remain unknown. This study aimed to investigate the proteome and functionality of the major equine proteins of seminal plasma and the sperm membrane. Seminal plasma and enriched-membrane proteins (150 μg) were separated by two-dimensional gel electrophoresis, and the respective maps were analyzed. Protein identification was performed by in-gel digestion and tandem mass spectrometry (GeLC-MS/MS). Samples were also submitted to in-solution digestion (complex protein mixture) and identified by shotgun analysis by LC-MS/MS; bioinformatic tools were used to investigate protein functions. Seminal plasma and sperm membrane extract maps contained 91.0 ± 8.2 spots and 245.3 ± 11.3 spots, respectively, within the 3-10 pH range. In total, the most abundant proteins identified in 2D maps and in complex protein mixtures included 24 proteins for seminal plasma and 33 for sperm membrane extract, with a high degree of confidence (P < 0.05). Of these, HSP1, CRISP3 and KLK1E2 were the most abundant in seminal plasma; HSP1 was highly abundant in sperm membrane extract, in many isoforms, which is related to membrane destabilization and may compromise sperm preservation. HSP1-polybromo-1 interactions suggested a role in DNA stabilization. Prosaposin was identified in seminal plasma and may play a role in the fertilization process. IZUMO4, a member of the IgSF family involved in the prefertilization stages, was identified in 2D gel and MS/MS analysis of sperm membrane extract. Ten proteins of seminal plasma were found to interact with the sperm membrane and were related to binding and catalytic activities (clusterin, CRISP3, epididymal sperm-binding protein 1, kallikrein1E2, seminal plasma protein A3, and HSP1). Additionally, other identified proteins were associated with DNA integrity, capacitation and recognition of pregnancy. These findings indicate that the binding of specific proteins to the plasma membrane during ejaculation may influence sperm survival after cryopreservation and may play a role in decreasing the quality in stallions with toxic seminal plasma. Elucidation of these interactions is an important step in understanding the biological processes related to equine fertility and facilitates future investigations on the selection and application of low freezability semen strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- P N Guasti
- Department of Veterinary Surgery and Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, FMVZ, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - F F Souza
- Department of Veterinary Surgery and Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, FMVZ, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - C Scott
- Department of Veterinary Surgery and Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, FMVZ, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - P M Papa
- Department of Veterinary Surgery and Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, FMVZ, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - L S Camargo
- Department of Veterinary Surgery and Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, FMVZ, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - R A Schmith
- Department of Veterinary Surgery and Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, FMVZ, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - G A Monteiro
- Department of Veterinary Clinic and Surgery, School of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - F P Hartwig
- Department of Veterinary Surgery and Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, FMVZ, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - F O Papa
- Department of Veterinary Surgery and Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, FMVZ, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, SP, Brazil.
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13
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Canisso IF, Segabinazzi LG, Fedorka CE. Persistent Breeding-Induced Endometritis in Mares - a Multifaceted Challenge: From Clinical Aspects to Immunopathogenesis and Pathobiology. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E1432. [PMID: 32093296 PMCID: PMC7073041 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21041432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2019] [Revised: 01/29/2020] [Accepted: 02/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Post-breeding endometritis (i.e., inflammation/infection of the endometrium), is a physiological reaction taking place in the endometrium of mares within 48 hours post-breeding, aimed to clear seminal plasma, excess sperm, microorganisms, and debris from the uterine lumen in preparation for the arrival of an embryo. Mares are classified as susceptible or resistant to persistent breeding-induced endometritis (PBIE) based on their ability to clear this inflammation/infection by 48 hours post-breeding. Mares susceptible to PBIE, or those with difficulty clearing infection/inflammation, have a deficient immune response and compromised physical mechanisms of defense against infection. Molecular pathways of the innate immune response known to be involved in PBIE are discussed herein. The role of the adaptive uterine immune response on PBIE remains to be elucidated in horses. Advances in the pathobiology of microbes involved in PBIE are also revised here. Traditional and non-traditional therapeutic modalities for endometritis are contrasted and described in the context of clinical and molecular aspects. In recent years, the lack of efficacy of traditional therapeutic modalities, alongside the ever-increasing incidence of antibiotic-resistant microorganisms, has enforced the development of non-traditional therapies. Novel biological products capable of modulating the endometrial inflammatory response are also discussed here as part of the non-traditional therapies for endometritis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Igor F. Canisso
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL 61802, USA;
| | - Lorenzo G.T.M. Segabinazzi
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL 61802, USA;
- Department of Animal Reproduction and Veterinary Radiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu 18618-000, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Carleigh E. Fedorka
- The Maxwell H. Gluck Equine Research Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40503, USA;
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14
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Johannisson A, Al-Essawe EM, Al-Saffar AK, Karkehabadi S, Lima-Verde I, Wulf M, Aurich C, Morrell JM. Season does not have a deleterious effect on proportions of stallion seminal plasma proteins. J Reprod Dev 2020; 66:215-221. [PMID: 32051351 PMCID: PMC7297632 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2019-072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
The mechanism by which the content of the major groups of seminal plasma proteins in stallion semen changes between the breeding and non-breeding seasons remains unknown. Here, we
investigated the proportions of non-heparin-binding, phosphorylcholine-binding, and heparin-binding proteins in seminal plasma with the aim of relating them to sperm quality and testosterone
levels in good and bad freezer stallions. Only minor variations in the major protein groups were found between the breeding and non-breeding seasons. In the non-breeding season, a higher
content of a subset of non-heparin binding proteins as well as of heparin-binding proteins was found. Analysis of semen characteristics revealed a somewhat contrasting picture. While only
minor variations in sperm kinematics and sperm morphology were found between seasons, the flow-cytometric measurements of mitochondrial membrane potential and also, to some extent, reactive
oxygen species production indicated lower sperm quality in the breeding season. Chromatin integrity and testosterone levels were unchanged between seasons. The results suggest that stallion
ejaculates could be used year-round for freezing, since only minor differences in protein composition exist between the breeding and non-breeding seasons, as well as between good and bad
freezers. In addition, sperm quality is not impaired during the non-breeding season.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anders Johannisson
- Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Clinical Sciences, Uppsala 75007, Sweden
| | - Essraa M Al-Essawe
- Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Clinical Sciences, Uppsala 75007, Sweden.,Al-Nahrain University-High Institute of Infertility Diagnosis and Assisted Reproductive Technologies, Clinical Reproductive Physiology, Baghdad 10007, Iraq
| | - Anas Kh Al-Saffar
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Unit, Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala 75185, Sweden.,Department of Surgery and Obstetrics, College of Veterinary Medicine, Baghdad University, Baghdad 10081, Iraq
| | - Saeid Karkehabadi
- Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Molecular Sciences, Uppsala 75007, Sweden
| | - Isabel Lima-Verde
- Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Clinical Sciences, Uppsala 75007, Sweden
| | - Manuela Wulf
- Graf Lehndorff Institute for Equine Sciences, Vetmeduni, Vienna, Austria, and Neustadt (Dosse) 16845, Germany
| | - Christine Aurich
- Artificial Insemination and Embryo Transfer, Department for Small Animals and Horses, Vetmeduni Vienna, Vienna 1210, Austria
| | - Jane M Morrell
- Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Clinical Sciences, Uppsala 75007, Sweden
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15
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Fedorka CE, Loux SL, Scoggin KE, Adams AA, Troedsson MHT, Ball BA. Alterations in T cell-related transcripts at the feto-maternal interface throughout equine gestation. Placenta 2019; 89:78-87. [PMID: 31730925 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2019.10.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2019] [Revised: 10/21/2019] [Accepted: 10/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The tolerance of pregnancy by the maternal immune system is balanced between recognition and protection. In the human this is controlled by balancing helper T cell populations (Th1, Th2) in addition to immune suppression from the regulatory arm (Tregs), but this has not been evaluated in the horse. METHODS RNA sequencing was performed on chorioallantois and endometrium of mares at 120, 180, 300 and 330 days of gestation (n = 4/stage), as well as 45-day chorioallantois (n = 4) and diestrus endometrium (n = 3). Transcripts were selected for relativity to Th1, Th2, or Treg-associated. qPCR and immunohistochemistry were used to confirm the results of select differentially expressed genes. RESULTS In the endometrium, Th1 transcripts were highest in the diestrus mare and decreased as gestational length progressed. In contrast, Th2 transcripts were upregulated in comparison to the diestrus mare and highest in mid gestation. Treg transcripts were found increased in comparison to the diestrus mare, but decreased prepartum. In the chorioallantois no Th1 transcripts changed. The majority of Th2 transcripts increased from 45 to 300 days gestation, and then decreased prepartum. Treg-related transcripts trended down in the chorioallantois from 45 days to 120 days gestation, followed by an upregulation to 300 days and a secondary decline prepartum. DISCUSSION The mare experiences a complex and evolving immune profile within the tissues of the feto-maternal interface. This consists of a balance between the Th1 and Th2 response, and a dynamic Treg response that is hypothesized to regulate overall events within the immune system.
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Affiliation(s)
- C E Fedorka
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - S L Loux
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - K E Scoggin
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - A A Adams
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - M H T Troedsson
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - B A Ball
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA.
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16
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Fedorka CE, Ball BA, Scoggin KE, Loux SC, Troedsson MHT, Adams AA. The feto-maternal immune response to equine placentitis. Am J Reprod Immunol 2019; 82:e13179. [PMID: 31373743 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2019] [Revised: 07/22/2019] [Accepted: 07/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM Ascending placentitis is one of the leading causes of abortion in the horse. Minimal work has focused on its effect on fetal fluids or the antenatal immune response of the fetus. METHODOLOGY Placentitis was induced via transcervical inoculation of Streptococcus equi ssp Zooepidemicus, and fluids/serum/tissues were collected 4-6 days later following euthanasia. Cytokine concentrations were detected using a multiplex immunoassay within fetal fluids (amniotic and allantoic) and serum (maternal and fetal) in inoculated and control mares. In addition, tissues from fetal (spleen, liver, lung, umbilicus, amnioallantois) and maternal (spleen, liver, lung, chorioallantois, endometrium) origin were analyzed in inoculated and control mares utilizing qPCR for expression of cytokines. RESULTS No difference in cytokine concentrations in maternal or fetal serum was noted between inoculated and control mares. Concentrations of IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10, and GRO were upregulated in the amniotic fluid following inoculation, with a trend toward higher IL-6 concentration in allantoic fluid. The amnioallantoic tissue separating the two fluids had higher expression of IL-1β and IL-6 following inoculation, while chorioallantois and endometrium upregulated IL-1β and IL-8 expression. IL-1β was upregulated in the maternal spleen following inoculation. Fetal spleens were upregulated in expression of IL-1β, GRO, and IL-6, while IL-6 was higher in fetal liver after inoculation than in controls. CONCLUSION The maternal response to placentitis is primarily pro-inflammatory while the fetus appears to play a regulatory role in this inflammation. Additionally, amniotic fluid sampling may be more diagnostic of ascending placentitis than circulating cytokines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carleigh E Fedorka
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Barry A Ball
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Kirsten E Scoggin
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Shavahn C Loux
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Mats H T Troedsson
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Amanda A Adams
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
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Fedorka CE, Ball BA, Walker OF, Conley AJ, Corbin CJ, Lu KG, Hanneman JM, Troedsson MHT, Adams AA. Alteration of the mare's immune system by the synthetic progestin, altrenogest. Am J Reprod Immunol 2019; 82:e13145. [PMID: 31087434 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2019] [Revised: 05/02/2019] [Accepted: 05/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM Progestins are immunomodulatory in a variety of species. In the horse, the most commonly administered synthetic progestin is altrenogest (ALT), but its effect on the immune system of the non-pregnant mare is unknown. METHODS Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from diestrous mares were incubated with varying concentrations of progesterone (P4) or ALT to assess intracellular production of IFNγ and the expression of select cytokines. Additionally, ten mares received either ALT or VEH daily utilizing a switchback design beginning on the day of ovulation and continuing for 7 days. Circulating PBMCs and endometrial biopsies were obtained to assess the production and expression of the same cytokines. RESULTS In vitro, both P4 and ALT caused a dose-dependent decrease in intracellular IFNγ in PBMCs. P4 caused a dose-dependent decrease in the expression of IFNγ, IL-10 and IL-4, while ALT caused an increase in the expression of IL-6 and IL-1β in PBMCs. In vivo, ALT suppressed the intracellular levels of IFNγ in PBMCs on d6. While control mares experienced a decrease in IL-1β expression from d0 to d6, ALT-treated mares did not. In the endometrium, ALT increased the expression of IL-1RN and IFNγ in comparison with VEH-treated mares. CONCLUSION P4 and ALT appear to alter the immune system of the non-pregnant mare both systemically in addition to locally within the endometrium. Further research is necessary to determine the pathways through which this synthetic progestin functions on the immune system of the horse, and the consequences it may have.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Barry A Ball
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
| | - Olivia F Walker
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Lincoln Memorial University, Harrogate, Tennessee
| | - Alan J Conley
- Department of Population Health and Reproduction, University of California-Davis, Davis, California
| | - Cynthia J Corbin
- Department of Population Health and Reproduction, University of California-Davis, Davis, California
| | - Kristina G Lu
- Hagyard Equine Medical Institute, Lexington, Kentucky
| | - Jessica M Hanneman
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
| | - Mats H T Troedsson
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
| | - Amanda A Adams
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
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18
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Fedorka C, Scoggin K, Boakari Y, Hoppe N, Squires E, Ball B, Troedsson M. The anti-inflammatory effect of exogenous lactoferrin on breeding-induced endometritis when administered post-breeding in susceptible mares. Theriogenology 2018; 114:63-69. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2018.03.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2017] [Revised: 02/27/2018] [Accepted: 03/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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19
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Martins HS, da Silva GC, Cortes SF, Paes FO, Martins Filho OA, Araujo M, Stahlberg R, Lagares MA. Lactoferrin increases sperm membrane functionality of frozen equine semen. Reprod Domest Anim 2018; 53:617-623. [PMID: 29431233 DOI: 10.1111/rda.13148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2017] [Accepted: 12/23/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
During cryopreservation, sperm was submitted to an increase in reactive oxygen species generation. This work aimed to improve the quality of frozen equine sperm after the addition of antioxidants lactoferrin (Lf) and catalase (Cat) to a freezing extender. Semen from six stallions was frozen with the extenders: F1) control, INRA 82 freezing extender, F2) F1 + 500 μg/ml Lf and F3) F1 + 200 IU/ml Cat. After thawing, sperm motility parameters, membrane functionality and integrity, and acrosome integrity and spontaneous acrosome-reacted sperm were evaluated with a computer-assisted sperm analysis, a hypoosmotic swelling test and epifluorescent microscopy, respectively. Nitrite, hydroperoxide and iron concentrations of frozen semen were measured with spectrophotometry. The percentage of functional membrane sperm treated with Lf was higher (50.7% ± 11.6%) compared to that of the control (37.6% ± 15.6%), while the iron (61.4 ± 11.6 vs 73.3 ± 13.8 mg/dl) and nitrite concentrations (16.3 ± 7.1 vs 25.9 ± 4.2 μM/μg protein) were lower, respectively (p < .05). Thus, it can be suggested that Lf protect stallion spermatozoon during freezing as it has increased the percentage of sperm with functional membrane and decreased the lipid oxidant agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- H S Martins
- Departamento de Clinica e Cirurgia Veterinárias da Escola de Veterinária da, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - G C da Silva
- Departamento de Farmacologia do Instituto de Ciências Biológicas da UFMG, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - S F Cortes
- Departamento de Farmacologia do Instituto de Ciências Biológicas da UFMG, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - F O Paes
- Departamento de Clinica e Cirurgia Veterinárias da Escola de Veterinária da, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - O A Martins Filho
- Centro de Pesquisas René Rachou - Fiocruz, Laboratório de Biomarcadores de Diagnóstico e Monitoração, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Mss Araujo
- Centro de Pesquisas René Rachou - Fiocruz, Laboratório de Biomarcadores de Diagnóstico e Monitoração, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - R Stahlberg
- Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária da Pontifícia, Universidade Católica- PUC Minas, Betim, Brazil
| | - M A Lagares
- Departamento de Clinica e Cirurgia Veterinárias da Escola de Veterinária da, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, Brazil
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20
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Christoffersen M, Troedsson MHT. Inflammation and fertility in the mare. Reprod Domest Anim 2017; 52 Suppl 3:14-20. [DOI: 10.1111/rda.13013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- M Christoffersen
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences; Section for Veterinary Reproduction and Obstetrics; Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences; University of Copenhagen; Copenhagen Denmark
| | - MHT Troedsson
- Maxwell H. Gluck Equine Research Center; University of Kentucky; Lexington KY USA
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