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Luan Y, So W, Dong R, Abazarikia A, Kim SY. KIT in oocytes: a key factor for oocyte survival and reproductive lifespan. EBioMedicine 2024; 106:105263. [PMID: 39067135 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2024.105263] [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: 03/10/2024] [Revised: 07/03/2024] [Accepted: 07/16/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The KITL-KIT interaction is known as an important initiator in oocyte activation through the downstream pathway of PI3K-AKT-FOXO3 signalling. Previous studies utilising germ cell-specific Kit mutant knockin and kinase domain knockout models with Vasa-Cre suggested the crucial role of KIT in oocyte activation at the primordial follicle stage. METHODS We utilised mice with complete postnatal deletion of KIT expression in oocytes via Gdf9-iCre and conducted analyses on ovarian follicle development, specific markers, hormone assays, and fertility outcomes. FINDINGS Our findings reveal contrasting phenotypes compared to previous mouse models with prenatal deletion of Kit. Specifically, postnatal deletion of Kit exhibit no defects in germ cell nest breakdown, follicle activation, and folliculogenesis during development. Remarkably, upon reaching full maturity, mice with postnatal deletion of Kit experience a complete loss of ovarian reserve, growing follicles, and ovarian function. Furthermore, mice display smaller ovarian size and weight, delayed folliculogenesis, and phenotypes indicative of primary ovarian insufficiency (POI), including elevated serum levels of FSH, reduced AMH, and absence of ovarian follicles, ultimately resulting in infertility. Additionally, the ovaries exhibit randomly distributed expression of granulosa and theca cell markers such as Inhibin α, ACVR2B, and LHR. Notably, there is the uncontrolled expression of p-SMAD3 and Ki67 throughout the ovarian sections, along with the widespread presence of luteinised stroma cells and cleaved Caspase-3-positive dying cells. INTERPRETATION These genetic studies underscore the indispensable role of KIT in oocytes for maintaining the survival of ovarian follicles and ensuring the reproductive lifespan. FUNDING This work was supported by National Institutes of Health grant R01HD096042 and startup funds from UNMC (S.Y.K.).
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Luan
- Olson Centre for Women's Health, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Centre, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Wonmi So
- Olson Centre for Women's Health, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Centre, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Rosemary Dong
- Olson Centre for Women's Health, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Centre, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Amirhossein Abazarikia
- Olson Centre for Women's Health, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Centre, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - So-Youn Kim
- Olson Centre for Women's Health, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Centre, Omaha, NE, USA; Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Centre, University of Nebraska Medical Centre, Omaha, NE, USA.
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2
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Zhou W, Li B, Wang Z, Liu S, Wang W, He S, Chen Y, Zhang X, Zhang M. Premeiotic deletion of Eif2s2 causes oocyte arrest at the early diplotene stage and apoptosis in mice. Cell Prolif 2024:e13718. [PMID: 39044637 DOI: 10.1111/cpr.13718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2024] [Revised: 07/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Eukaryotic translation initiation factor 2 subunit 2 (EIF2S2), a subunit of the heterotrimeric G protein EIF2, is involved in the initiation of translation. Our findings demonstrate that the depletion of Eif2s2 in premeiotic germ cells causes oocyte arrest at the pachytene and early diplotene stages at 1 day postpartum (dpp) and 5 dpp, respectively, and eventually leads to oocyte apoptosis and failure of primordial follicle formation. Further studies reveal that Eif2s2 deletion downregulates homologous recombination-related and mitochondrial fission-related protein levels, and upregulates the integrated stress response-related proteins and mRNA levels. Consistently, Eif2s2 deletion significantly decreases the expression of dictyate genes and compromises mitochondrial function, characterized by elongated shapes, decreased ATP levels and mtDNA copy number, along with an excessive accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and mitochondrial superoxide. Furthermore, DNA damage response and proapoptotic protein levels increase, while anti-apoptotic protein levels decrease in Eif2s2-deleted mice. An increase in oocytes with positive cleaved-Caspase-3 and TUNEL signals, alongside reduced Lamin B1 intensity, further indicates oocyte apoptosis. Collectively, Eif2s2 deletion in premeiotic germ cells causes oocyte meiotic arrest at the early diplotene stage by impairing homologous recombination, and eventually leads to oocyte apoptosis mainly through the downregulation of mitochondrial fission-related proteins, ROS accumulation and subsequent DNA damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjun Zhou
- The Innovation Centre of Ministry of Education for Development and Diseases, the Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Biao Li
- The Innovation Centre of Ministry of Education for Development and Diseases, the Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- Center for Sleep and Circadian Medicine, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhijuan Wang
- The Innovation Centre of Ministry of Education for Development and Diseases, the Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shuang Liu
- The Innovation Centre of Ministry of Education for Development and Diseases, the Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Weiyong Wang
- The Innovation Centre of Ministry of Education for Development and Diseases, the Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Sihui He
- The Innovation Centre of Ministry of Education for Development and Diseases, the Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ye Chen
- The Innovation Centre of Ministry of Education for Development and Diseases, the Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaodan Zhang
- The Innovation Centre of Ministry of Education for Development and Diseases, the Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Meijia Zhang
- The Innovation Centre of Ministry of Education for Development and Diseases, the Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
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Longobardi S, Klinger FG, Zheng W, Campitiello MR, D’Hooghe T, La Marca A. Gonadotropin Activity during Early Folliculogenesis and Implications for Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome and Premature Ovarian Insufficiency: A Narrative Review. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:7520. [PMID: 39062762 PMCID: PMC11277126 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25147520] [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: 06/07/2024] [Revised: 07/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Female fertility depends on the ovarian reserve of follicles, which is determined at birth. Primordial follicle development and oocyte maturation are regulated by multiple factors and pathways and classified into gonadotropin-independent and gonadotropin-dependent phases, according to the response to gonadotropins. Folliculogenesis has always been considered to be gonadotropin-dependent only from the antral stage, but evidence from the literature highlights the role of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) during early folliculogenesis with a potential role in the progression of the pool of primordial follicles. Hormonal and molecular pathway alterations during the very earliest stages of folliculogenesis may be the root cause of anovulation in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and in PCOS-like phenotypes related to antiepileptic treatment. Excessive induction of primordial follicle activation can also lead to premature ovarian insufficiency (POI), a condition characterized by menopause in women before 40 years of age. Future treatments aiming to suppress initial recruitment or prevent the growth of resting follicles could help in prolonging female fertility, especially in women with PCOS or POI. This review will briefly introduce the impact of gonadotropins on early folliculogenesis. We will discuss the influence of LH on ovarian reserve and its potential role in PCOS and POI infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Francesca Gioia Klinger
- Department of Histology and Embryology, University of Health Sciences, Saint Camillus International, Via di Sant’Alessandro 8, 00131 Rome, Italy
| | | | - Maria Rosaria Campitiello
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Physiopathology of Human Reproduction, ASL Salerno, 84124 Salerno, Italy
| | - Thomas D’Hooghe
- Merck KGaA, 64293 Darmstadt, Germany (T.D.)
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Biomedical Sciences Group, KU Leuven (University of Leuven), 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Antonio La Marca
- Department of Maternal-Child and Adult Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
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Markowska A, Antoszczak M, Markowska J, Huczyński A. Gynotoxic Effects of Chemotherapy and Potential Protective Mechanisms. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:2288. [PMID: 38927992 PMCID: PMC11202309 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16122288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2024] [Revised: 06/16/2024] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Chemotherapy is one of the leading cancer treatments. Unfortunately, its use can contribute to several side effects, including gynotoxic effects in women. Ovarian reserve suppression and estrogen deficiency result in reduced quality of life for cancer patients and are frequently the cause of infertility and early menopause. Classic alkylating cytostatics are among the most toxic chemotherapeutics in this regard. They cause DNA damage in ovarian follicles and the cells they contain, and they can also induce oxidative stress or affect numerous signaling pathways. In vitro tests, animal models, and a few studies among women have investigated the effects of various agents on the protection of the ovarian reserve during classic chemotherapy. In this review article, we focused on the possible beneficial effects of selected hormones (anti-Müllerian hormone, ghrelin, luteinizing hormone, melatonin), agents affecting the activity of apoptotic pathways and modulating gene expression (C1P, S1P, microRNA), and several natural (quercetin, rapamycin, resveratrol) and synthetic compounds (bortezomib, dexrazoxane, goserelin, gonadoliberin analogs, imatinib, metformin, tamoxifen) in preventing gynotoxic effects induced by commonly used cytostatics. The presented line of research appears to provide a promising strategy for protecting and/or improving the ovarian reserve in the studied group of cancer patients. However, well-designed clinical trials are needed to unequivocally assess the effects of these agents on improving hormonal function and fertility in women treated with ovotoxic anticancer drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Markowska
- Department of Perinatology and Women’s Health, Poznań University of Medical Sciences, 60-535 Poznań, Poland
| | - Michał Antoszczak
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Adam Mickiewicz University, 61-614 Poznań, Poland
| | - Janina Markowska
- Gynecological Oncology Center, Poznańska 58A, 60-850 Poznań, Poland;
| | - Adam Huczyński
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Adam Mickiewicz University, 61-614 Poznań, Poland
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5
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Yan H, Miranda EAD, Jin S, Wilson F, An K, Godbee B, Zheng X, Brau-Rodríguez AR, Lei L. Primary oocytes with cellular senescence features are involved in ovarian aging in mice. Sci Rep 2024; 14:13606. [PMID: 38871781 PMCID: PMC11176158 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-64441-6] [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: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024] Open
Abstract
In mammalian females, quiescent primordial follicles serve as the ovarian reserve and sustain normal ovarian function and egg production via folliculogenesis. The loss of primordial follicles causes ovarian aging. Cellular senescence, characterized by cell cycle arrest and production of the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP), is associated with tissue aging. In the present study, we report that some quiescent primary oocytes in primordial follicles become senescent in adult mouse ovaries. The senescent primary oocytes share senescence markers characterized in senescent somatic cells. The senescent primary oocytes were observed in young adult mouse ovaries, remained at approximately 15% of the total primary oocytes during ovarian aging from 6 to 12 months, and accumulated in aged ovaries. Administration of a senolytic drug ABT263 to 3-month-old mice reduced the percentage of senescent primary oocytes and the transcription of the SASP factors in the ovary, in addition, led to increased numbers of primordial and total follicles and a higher rate of oocyte maturation. Our study provides experimental evidence that primary oocytes, a germline cell type that is arrested in meiosis, become senescent in adult mouse ovaries and that senescent cell clearance reduced primordial follicle loss and mitigated ovarian aging phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Yan
- Buck Institute for Research on Aging, Novato, CA, 94945, USA
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Edgar Andres Diaz Miranda
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, MO, 65211, USA
| | - Shiying Jin
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, MO, 65211, USA
| | - Faith Wilson
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, MO, 65211, USA
- Division of Biological Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65211, USA
| | - Kang An
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, MO, 65211, USA
| | - Brooke Godbee
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, MO, 65211, USA
- College of Health Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65211, USA
| | - Xiaobin Zheng
- Department of Embryology, Carnegie Institution for Science, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA
| | - Astrid Roshealy Brau-Rodríguez
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, MO, 65211, USA
| | - Lei Lei
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, MO, 65211, USA.
- Division of Biological Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65211, USA.
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Zha Y, Li Y, Lyu W. Research progress on the prevention and treatment of chemotherapy-induced ovarian damage. Zhejiang Da Xue Xue Bao Yi Xue Ban 2024:1-9. [PMID: 38742393 DOI: 10.3724/zdxbyxb-2023-0495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Chemotherapy is a main treatment option for malignant tumors, but it may cause various adverse effects, including dysfunction of female endocrine and fertility. Chemotherapy-induced ovarian damage has been concerned, apart from ovarian preservation, the prevention and treatment of ovarian dysfunction are widely studied. In this article, the mechanisms of ovarian injury caused by chemotherapy, including the apoptosis of follicle and supporting cells, follicle "burn out", ovarian stromal and microvascular damage; and influencing factors, including age at diagnosis and initial low pre-treatment anti-Müllerian hormone levels, toxicity, dose and regimen of chemotherapy drugs are reviewed based on the latest research results and clinical practice. The article also discusses measures and frontier therapies for prevention and treatment of ovarian injury, including the application of gonadotropin releasing hormone agonists or antagonists, tyrosine kinase inhibitors, antioxidants, sphingosine-1-phosphate, ceramide-1-phosphate, mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitors, granulocyte-colony stimulating factor, stem cell therapy and artificial ovary, etc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuxin Zha
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310006, China.
| | - Yang Li
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310006, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hangzhou 310006, China
| | - Weiguo Lyu
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310006, China.
- Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hangzhou 310006, China.
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Women's Reproductive Health, Hangzhou 310006, China.
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Fan Y, Chen S, Chu C, Yin X, Jin J, Zhang L, Yan H, Cao Z, Liu R, Xin M, Li L, Yin C. TP63 truncating mutation causes increased cell apoptosis and premature ovarian insufficiency by enhanced transcriptional activation of CLCA2. J Ovarian Res 2024; 17:67. [PMID: 38528613 PMCID: PMC10962206 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-024-01396-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) is a severe disorder leading to female infertility. Genetic mutations are important factors causing POI. TP63-truncating mutation has been reported to cause POI by increasing germ cell apoptosis, however what factors mediate this apoptosis remains unclear. METHODS Ninety-three patients with POI were recruited from Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University. Whole-exome sequencing (WES) was performed for each patient. Sanger sequencing was used to confirm potential causative genetic variants. A minigene assay was performed to determine splicing effects of TP63 variants. A TP63-truncating plasmid was constructed. Real-time quantitative PCR, western blot analyses, dual luciferase reporter assays, immunofluorescence staining, and cell apoptosis assays were used to study the underlying mechanism of a TP63-truncating mutation causing POI. RESULTS By WES of 93 sporadic patients with POI, we found a 14-bp deletion covering the splice site in the TP63 gene. A minigene assay demonstrated that the 14-bp deletion variant led to exon 13 skipping during TP63 mRNA splicing, resulting in the generation of a truncated TP63 protein (TP63-mut). Overexpression of TP63-mut accelerated cell apoptosis. Mechanistically, the TP63-mut protein could bind to the promoter region of CLCA2 and activate the transcription of CLCA2 several times compared to that of the TP63 wild-type protein. Silencing CLCA2 using a specific small interfering RNA (siRNA) or inhibiting the Ataxia Telangiectasia Mutated (ATM) pathway using the KU55933 inhibitor attenuated cell apoptosis caused by TP63-mut protein expression. CONCLUSION Our findings revealed a crucial role for CLCA2 in mediating apoptosis in POI pathogenesis, and suggested that CLCA2 is a potential therapeutic target for POI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yali Fan
- Central Laboratory, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Beijing, 100006, China
| | - Shuya Chen
- Central Laboratory, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Beijing, 100006, China
| | - Chunfang Chu
- Department of Gynecology, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Beijing, 100026, China
| | - Xiaodan Yin
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Beijing, 100026, China
| | - Jing Jin
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Beijing, 100026, China
| | - Lingyan Zhang
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Huihui Yan
- Department of Obstetrics, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Beijing, 100026, China
| | - Zheng Cao
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Beijing, 100026, China
| | - Ruixia Liu
- Central Laboratory, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Beijing, 100006, China
| | - Mingwei Xin
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Beijing, 100026, China.
| | - Lin Li
- Central Laboratory, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Beijing, 100006, China.
| | - Chenghong Yin
- Central Laboratory, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Beijing, 100006, China.
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Leem J, Lee C, Choi DY, Oh JS. Distinct characteristics of the DNA damage response in mammalian oocytes. Exp Mol Med 2024; 56:319-328. [PMID: 38355825 PMCID: PMC10907590 DOI: 10.1038/s12276-024-01178-2] [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: 08/20/2023] [Revised: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
DNA damage is a critical threat that poses significant challenges to all cells. To address this issue, cells have evolved a sophisticated molecular and cellular process known as the DNA damage response (DDR). Among the various cell types, mammalian oocytes, which remain dormant in the ovary for extended periods, are particularly susceptible to DNA damage. The occurrence of DNA damage in oocytes can result in genetic abnormalities, potentially leading to infertility, birth defects, and even abortion. Therefore, understanding how oocytes detect and repair DNA damage is of paramount importance in maintaining oocyte quality and preserving fertility. Although the fundamental concept of the DDR is conserved across various cell types, an emerging body of evidence reveals striking distinctions in the DDR between mammalian oocytes and somatic cells. In this review, we highlight the distinctive characteristics of the DDR in oocytes and discuss the clinical implications of DNA damage in oocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiyeon Leem
- Department of Integrative Biotechnology, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, South Korea
| | - Crystal Lee
- Department of Integrative Biotechnology, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, South Korea
| | - Da Yi Choi
- Department of Integrative Biotechnology, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, South Korea
| | - Jeong Su Oh
- Department of Integrative Biotechnology, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, South Korea.
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Ahuja K, Batra V, Kumar R, Datta TK. Transient suppression of Wnt signaling in poor-quality buffalo oocytes improves their developmental competence. Front Vet Sci 2024; 10:1324647. [PMID: 38274663 PMCID: PMC10808588 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1324647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction One of the most evolutionary conserved communication systems, the Wnt signaling pathway is a major gene regulatory pathway that affects the developmental competence of oocytes and regulates most embryonic developmental processes. The present study was undertaken to modulate the canonical Wnt (Wingless/integration) signaling pathway in the poor-quality (colorless cytoplasm after Brilliant Cresyl Blue staining, BCB-) buffalo cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) to improve their in vitro maturation (IVM) and embryo production (IVEP) rates. Methods The expression of key Wnt pathway genes was initially assessed in the good (blue cytoplasm after Brilliant Cresyl Blue staining, BCB+) and poor quality (BCB-) buffalo COCs to establish a differential activity of the Wnt pathway. The BCB- COCs were supplemented with the Wnt pathway inhibitor, Dickkopf-related protein 1 (DKK1) and later subjected to IVM and IVEP along with the BCB+ and BCB- controls. The cumulus expansion index (CEI), rate of nuclear maturation (mean percentage of oocytes in the MII stage) and embryo production, and the expression of developmentally important genes were evaluated to assess the effect of Wnt pathway inhibition on the development competence of these poor-quality oocytes. Results The Wnt pathway genes exhibited a significantly higher expression (p < 0.05) in the poor-quality BCB- oocytes compared to the good-quality BCB+ oocytes during the early maturation stages. The supplementation of BCB- COCs with 100 ng/mL DKK1 effectively inhibited the expression of the key mediators of the Wnt pathway (β-catenin and dishevelled homolog 1, DVL1). DKK1 supplemented BCB- COCs exhibited significantly improved cytoplasmic and nuclear maturation indices, development rates and significantly elevated expression (p < 0.05) of genes implicated in germinal vesicle breakdown (GVBD) and embryonic genome activation (EGA) vis-à-vis BCB- control COCs. Conclusion These data indicate that inhibition of the Wnt pathway during the initial course of oocyte maturation can improve the development competence of poor-quality buffalo oocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kriti Ahuja
- Animal Genomics Lab, Animal Biotechnology Centre, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
| | - Vipul Batra
- Animal Genomics Lab, Animal Biotechnology Centre, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
- Lifespan and Population Health, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Rakesh Kumar
- Animal Genomics Lab, Animal Biotechnology Centre, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
| | - Tirtha Kumar Datta
- Animal Genomics Lab, Animal Biotechnology Centre, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
- ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Buffaloes, Hisar, India
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Yan H, Miranda EAD, Jin S, Wilson F, An K, Godbee B, Zheng X, Brau-Rodríguez AR, Lei L. Primary oocytes with cellular senescence features are involved in ovarian aging in mice. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.01.08.574768. [PMID: 38260383 PMCID: PMC10802418 DOI: 10.1101/2024.01.08.574768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
In mammalian females, quiescent primordial follicles serve as the ovarian reserve and sustain normal ovarian function and egg production via folliculogenesis. The loss of primordial follicles causes ovarian aging. Cellular senescence, characterized by cell cycle arrest and production of the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP), is associated with tissue aging. In the present study, we report that some quiescent primary oocytes in primordial follicles become senescent in adult mouse ovaries. The senescent primary oocytes share senescence markers characterized in senescent somatic cells. The senescent primary oocytes were observed in young adult mouse ovaries, remained at approximately 15% of the total primary oocytes during ovarian aging from 6 months to 12 months, and accumulated in aged ovaries. Administration of a senolytic drug ABT263 to 3-month-old mice reduced the percentage of senescent primary oocytes and the transcription of the SASP cytokines in the ovary. In addition, led to increased numbers of primordial and total follicles and a higher rate of oocyte maturation and female fertility. Our study provides experimental evidence that primary oocytes, a germline cell type that is arrested in meiosis, become senescent in adult mouse ovaries and that senescent cell clearance reduced primordial follicle loss and mitigated ovarian aging phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Yan
- Buck Institute for Research on Aging, Novato, California, 94945
- Carnegie Institution for Science, Department of Embryology, Baltimore, Maryland, 21218
| | - Edgar Andres Diaz Miranda
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women’s Health, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, Missouri, 65211
| | - Shiying Jin
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women’s Health, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, Missouri, 65211
| | - Faith Wilson
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women’s Health, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, Missouri, 65211
- Division of Biological Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, 65211
| | - Kang An
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women’s Health, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, Missouri, 65211
| | - Brooke Godbee
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women’s Health, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, Missouri, 65211
- College of Health Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, 65211
| | - Xiaobin Zheng
- Carnegie Institution for Science, Department of Embryology, Baltimore, Maryland, 21218
| | - Astrid Roshealy Brau-Rodríguez
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women’s Health, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, Missouri, 65211
| | - Lei Lei
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women’s Health, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, Missouri, 65211
- Division of Biological Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, 65211
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Emori C, Boucher Z, Bolcun-Filas E. CHEK2 signaling is the key regulator of oocyte survival after chemotherapy. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2023; 9:eadg0898. [PMID: 37862420 PMCID: PMC10588956 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adg0898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023]
Abstract
Cancer treatments can damage the ovarian follicle reserve, leading to primary ovarian insufficiency and infertility among survivors. Checkpoint kinase 2 (CHEK2) deficiency prevents elimination of oocytes in primordial follicles in female mice exposed to radiation and preserves their ovarian function and fertility. Here, we demonstrate that CHEK2 also coordinates the elimination of oocytes after exposure to standard-of-care chemotherapy drugs. CHEK2 activates two downstream targets-TAp63 and p53-which direct oocyte elimination. CHEK2 knockout or pharmacological inhibition preserved ovarian follicle reserve after radiation and chemotherapy. However, the lack of specificity for CHEK2 among available inhibitors limits their potential for clinical development. These findings demonstrate that CHEK2 is a master regulator of the ovarian cellular response to damage caused by radiation and chemotherapy and warrant the development of selective inhibitors specific to CHEK2 as a potential avenue for ovario-protective treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chihiro Emori
- The Jackson Laboratory, 600 Main Street, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, USA
- Department of Experimental Genome Research, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 5650871, Japan
| | - Zachary Boucher
- The Jackson Laboratory, 600 Main Street, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, USA
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Wu M, Xue L, Chen Y, Tang W, Guo Y, Xiong J, Chen D, Zhu Q, Fu F, Wang S. Inhibition of checkpoint kinase prevents human oocyte apoptosis induced by chemotherapy and allows enhanced tumour chemotherapeutic efficacy. Hum Reprod 2023; 38:1769-1783. [PMID: 37451671 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dead145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Could inhibition of the checkpoint kinase (CHEK) pathway protect human oocytes and even enhance the anti-tumour effects, during chemotherapy? SUMMARY ANSWER CHEK inhibitors prevented apoptosis of human oocytes induced by chemotherapy and even enhanced the anti-tumour effects. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY CHEK inhibitors showed ovarian protective effects in mice during chemotherapy, while their role in human oocytes is unclear. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This experimental study evaluated the ovarian reserve of young patients (120 patients) with cancer, exposed or not exposed to taxane and platinum (TP)-combined chemotherapy. Single RNA-sequencing analysis of human primordial oocytes from 10 patients was performed to explore the mechanism of oocyte apoptosis induced by TP chemotherapy. The damaging effects of paclitaxel (PTX) and cisplatin on human oocytes were also evaluated by culturing human ovaries in vitro. A new mouse model that combines human ovarian xenotransplantation and patient-derived tumour xenografts was developed to explore adjuvant therapies for ovarian protection. The mice were randomly allocated to four groups (10 mice for each group): control, cisplatin, cisplatin + CK1 (CHEK1 inhibitor, SCH 900776), and cisplatin + CK2 (CHEK2 inhibitor, BML277). PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS In the prospective cohort study, human ovarian follicles were counted and serum AMH levels were evaluated. RNA-sequencing analysis was conducted, and staining for follicular damage (phosphorylated H2AX histone; γH2AX), terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP-biotin nick end labelling (TUNEL) assays and assessments of apoptotic biomarkers (western blot and immunofluorescence) were conducted in human ovaries. After the treatments, histological analysis was performed on human ovarian samples to investigate follicular populations, and oocyte damage was measured by γH2AX staining, BAX staining, and TUNEL assays. At the same time, the tumours were evaluated for volume, weight, and apoptosis levels. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Patients who received TP chemotherapy showed decreased ovarian reserves. Single RNA-sequencing analysis of human primordial oocytes indicated that TP chemotherapy induced apoptosis of human primordial oocytes by causing CHEK-mediated TAp63α phosphorylation. In vitro culture of human ovaries showed greater damaging effects on oocytes after cisplatin treatment compared with that after PTX treatment. Using the new animal model, CHEK1/2 inhibitors prevented the apoptosis of human oocytes induced by cisplatin and even enhanced its anti-tumour effects. This protective effect appeared to be mediated by inhibiting DNA damage via the CHEK-TAp63α pathway and by generation of anti-apoptotic signals in the oocytes. LARGE SCALE DATA N/A. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION This was a preclinical study performed with human ovarian samples, and clinical research is required for validation. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS These findings highlight the therapeutic potential of CHEK1/2 inhibitors as a complementary strategy for preserving fertility in female cancer patients. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was financially supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (nos. 82001514 and 81902669) and the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities (2021yjsCXCY087). The authors declare no conflict of interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, China
- Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Wuhan, China
| | - Liru Xue
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, China
- Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Wuhan, China
| | - Ying Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, China
- Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Wuhan, China
| | - Weicheng Tang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, China
- Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Wuhan, China
| | - Yican Guo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, China
- Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Wuhan, China
| | - Jiaqiang Xiong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Dan Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, China
- Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Wuhan, China
| | - Qingqing Zhu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, China
- Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Wuhan, China
| | - Fangfang Fu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, China
- Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Wuhan, China
| | - Shixuan Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, China
- Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Wuhan, China
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Vanderschelden RK, Rodriguez-Escriba M, Chan SH, Berman AJ, Rajkovic A, Yatsenko SA. Heterozygous TP63 pathogenic variants in isolated primary ovarian insufficiency. J Assist Reprod Genet 2023; 40:2211-2218. [PMID: 37453019 PMCID: PMC10440319 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-023-02886-w] [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: 03/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/09/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Our study aimed to identify the genetic causes of non-syndromic primary ovarian insufficiency (POI) in female patients. METHODS We performed whole exome sequencing in females suffering from isolated POI and in their available family members. Copy number variations were validated by long-range PCR and Sanger sequencing, and conservation analysis was used to evaluate the impact of sequence variants on protein composition. RESULTS We detected two pathogenic TP63 heterozygous deleterious single nucleotide variants and a novel TP63 intragenic copy number alteration in three unrelated women with isolated POI. Two of these genetic variants are predicted to result in loss of transactivation inhibition of p63, whereas the third one affects the first exon of the ΔNp63 isoforms. CONCLUSION Our results broaden the spectrum of TP63-related disorders, which now includes sporadic and familial, isolated, and syndromic POI. Genomic variants that impair the transactivation inhibitory domain of the TAp63α isoform are the cause of non-syndromic POI. Additionally, variants affecting only the ΔNp63 isoforms may result in isolated POI. In patients with isolated POI, careful evaluation of genomic variants in pleiotropic genes such as TP63 will be essential to establish a full clinical spectrum and atypical presentation of a disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Serena H Chan
- Division of Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology, UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Andrea J Berman
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Aleksandar Rajkovic
- Department of Pathology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
- Institute of Human Genetics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - Svetlana A Yatsenko
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
- Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
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Miao X, Guo R, Williams A, Lee C, Ma J, Wang PJ, Cui W. Replication Protein A1 is essential for DNA damage repair during mammalian oogenesis. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.07.04.547725. [PMID: 37461444 PMCID: PMC10349974 DOI: 10.1101/2023.07.04.547725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/30/2023]
Abstract
Persistence of unrepaired DNA damage in oocytes is detrimental and may cause genetic aberrations, miscarriage, and infertility. RPA, an ssDNA-binding complex, is essential for various DNA-related processes. Here we report that RPA plays a novel role in DNA damage repair during postnatal oocyte development after meiotic recombination. To investigate the role of RPA during oogenesis, we inactivated RPA1 (replication protein A1), the largest subunit of the heterotrimeric RPA complex, specifically in oocytes using two germline-specific Cre drivers (Ddx4-Cre and Zp3-Cre). We find that depletion of RPA1 leads to the disassembly of the RPA complex, as evidenced by the absence of RPA2 and RPA3 in RPA1-deficient oocytes. Strikingly, severe DNA damage occurs in RPA1-deficient GV-stage oocytes. Loss of RPA in oocytes triggered the canonical DNA damage response mechanisms and pathways, such as activation of ATM, ATR, DNA-PK, and p53. In addition, the RPA deficiency causes chromosome misalignment at metaphase I and metaphase II stages of oocytes, which is consistent with altered transcript levels of genes involved in cytoskeleton organization in RPA1-deficient oocytes. Absence of the RPA complex in oocytes severely impairs folliculogenesis and leads to a significant reduction in oocyte number and female infertility. Our results demonstrate that RPA plays an unexpected role in DNA damage repair during mammalian folliculogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaosu Miao
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, USA
| | - Rui Guo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Andrea Williams
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, USA
| | - Catherine Lee
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, USA
| | - Jun Ma
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - P. Jeremy Wang
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Wei Cui
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, USA
- Animal Models Core Facility, Institute for Applied Life Sciences (IALS), University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, USA
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