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Li Y, Chang HM, Sung YW, Zhu H, Leung PCK, Sun YP. Betacellulin regulates gap junction intercellular communication by inducing the phosphorylation of connexin 43 in human granulosa-lutein cells. J Ovarian Res 2023; 16:103. [PMID: 37231448 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-023-01185-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The gap junction protein, connexin 43 (Cx43) is highly expressed in human granulosa-lutein (hGL) cells. The phosphorylation of certain amino acid residues in the Cx43 protein has been shown to be related to a decline in gap junction intercellular communication (GJIC), which subsequently affects oocyte meiotic resumption. As a member of the epidermal growth factor (EGF) family, betacellulin (BTC) mediates luteinizing hormone (LH)-induced oocyte maturation and cumulus cell expansion in mammalian follicles. Whether BTC can regulate Cx43 phosphorylation, which further reduces Cx43-coupled GJIC activity in hGL cells remains to be determined. METHODS Immortalized human granulosa cells (SVOG cells) and primary human granulosa-lutein cells obtained from women undergoing in vitro fertilization in an academic research center were used as the study models. The expression levels of Cx43 and phosphorylated Cx43 were examined following cell incubation with BTC at different time points. Several kinase inhibitors (sotrastaurin, AG1478, and U0126) and small interfering RNAs targeting EGF receptor (EGFR) and receptor tyrosine-protein kinase 4 (ErbB4) were used to verify the specificity of the effects and to investigate the molecular mechanisms. Real-time-quantitative PCR and western blot analysis were used to detect the specific mRNA and protein levels, respectively. GJIC between SVOG cells were evaluated using a scrape loading and dye transfer assay. Results were analyzed by one-way analysis of variance. RESULTS The results showed that BTC induced the rapid phosphorylation of Cx43 at serine368 without altering the expression of Cx43 in primary and immortalized hGL cells. Additionally, using a dual inhibition approach (kinase inhibitors and siRNA-based expression knockdown), we demonstrated that this effect was mainly mediated by the EGFR but not the ErbB4 receptor. Furthermore, using a protein kinase C (PKC) kinase assay and a scrape-loading and dye transfer assay, we revealed that PKC signaling is the downstream signaling pathway that mediates the increase in Cx43 phosphorylation and subsequent decrease in GJIC activity in response to BTC treatment in hGL cells. CONCLUSIONS BTC promptly induced the phosphorylation of connexin 43 at Ser368, leading to decreased GJIC activity in hGL cells. The BTC-induced cellular activities were most likely driven by the EGFR-mediated PKC-dependent signaling pathway. Our findings shed light on the detailed molecular mechanisms by which BTC regulates the process of oocyte meiotic resumption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuxi Li
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 40, Daxue Road, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Room 317, 950 West 28th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 4H4, Canada
- Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Provincial Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases (Reproductive Medicine) Clinical Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Hsun-Ming Chang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Wen Sung
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Hua Zhu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Room 317, 950 West 28th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 4H4, Canada
| | - Peter C K Leung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Room 317, 950 West 28th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 4H4, Canada.
| | - Ying-Pu Sun
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 40, Daxue Road, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China.
- Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.
- Henan Provincial Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases (Reproductive Medicine) Clinical Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.
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Fang L, Sun YP, Cheng JC. The role of amphiregulin in ovarian function and disease. Cell Mol Life Sci 2023; 80:60. [PMID: 36749397 PMCID: PMC11071807 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-023-04709-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Amphiregulin (AREG) is an epidermal growth factor (EGF)-like growth factor that binds exclusively to the EGF receptor (EGFR). Treatment with luteinizing hormone (LH) and/or human chorionic gonadotropin dramatically induces the expression of AREG in the granulosa cells of the preovulatory follicle. In addition, AREG is the most abundant EGFR ligand in human follicular fluid. Therefore, AREG is considered a predominant propagator that mediates LH surge-regulated ovarian functions in an autocrine and/or paracrine manner. In addition to the well-characterized stimulatory effect of LH on AREG expression, recent studies discovered that several local factors and epigenetic modifications participate in the regulation of ovarian AREG expression. Moreover, aberrant expression of AREG has recently been reported to contribute to the pathogenesis of several ovarian diseases, such as ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, polycystic ovary syndrome, and epithelial ovarian cancer. Furthermore, increasing evidence has elucidated new applications of AREG in assisted reproductive technology. Collectively, these studies highlight the importance of AREG in female reproductive health and disease. Understanding the normal and pathological roles of AREG and elucidating the molecular and cellular mechanisms of AREG regulation of ovarian functions will inform innovative approaches for fertility regulation and the prevention and treatment of ovarian diseases. Therefore, this review summarizes the functional roles of AREG in ovarian function and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lanlan Fang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 40, Daxue Road, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China
| | - Ying-Pu Sun
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 40, Daxue Road, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China
| | - Jung-Chien Cheng
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 40, Daxue Road, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China.
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Cansu A, Gurgen SG, Demirhan YN, Ozkan Kart P, Yildirim M, Alver A, Yeni Lmez E, Sönmez FM. Effects of treatment with clinically relevant valproate, carbamazepine, oxcarbazepine, topiramate, lamotrigine and levetiracetam on ovarian folliculogenesis in young rats. Epilepsy Res 2022; 184:106966. [PMID: 35763982 DOI: 10.1016/j.eplepsyres.2022.106966] [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: 01/03/2022] [Revised: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 06/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
AIM To determine the effects of valproate (VPA), carbamazepine (CBZ), oxcarbazepine (OXC), topiramate (TPM), lamotrigine (LTG), and levetiracetam (LEV) on ovarian folliculogenesis in young rats. METHODS Forty-nine female Wistar rats, aged 21-24 days, were divided equally into 7 experimental groups. These were given tap water over 21-24 days (control group), 300 mg/kg of VPA, 150 mg/kg of CBZ, 150 mg/kg of OXC, 100 mg/kg of TPM, 10 mg/kg of LTG, or 50 mg/kg of LEV daily in 2 doses via oral gavage until the end of puberty. At the end of the study, the estrous cycle of each rat was monitored daily, and those rats in pro-estrus or di-estrus were sacrificed and the ovaries removed. Serial sections obtained from the ovaries were stained with hematoxylin and eosin, and the corpora lutea and follicles were enumerated. Apoptotic cells were detected using the TUNEL technique. Various serial sections were immunohistochemically stained with proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), growth differentiation factor (GDF)-9, caspase-3, caspase-9, transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-1), and epidermal growth factor (EGF), and evaluated and photographed under a light microscope. KEY FINDINGS The number of corpora lutea was significantly increased in the VPA, CBZ, OXC, and LTG groups compared to the control group (p < 0.001). The number of TUNEL-positive ovarian follicles was 3.3 ± 1.1 (median, 3), 6.1 ± 0.9 (median, 6), and 5.7 ± 0.8 (median,6) in the control, OXC and LEV groups, respectively (p < 0.001). The number of TUNEL-positive granulosa cells was higher in all the groups treated with antiepileptics, with the exception of the TPM group, compared to the control group (p < 0.001). HSCOREs for immunohistochemical staining using PCNA, GDF-9, TGF-1 and EGF were significantly higher in the control group than in the others (p < 0.001). HSCORE for staining using caspase-3 was significantly higher in the VPA, CBZ, OXC and LEV groups, while the HSCORE was significantly lower in the TPM group than in the control group. HSCORE for staining using caspase-9 was significantly higher in the VPA, CBZ and OXC groups, while it was significantly lower in the TPM group than in the control group (p < 0.001). SIGNIFICANCE Exposure to VPA, CBZ, OXC, TPM, LTG and LEV caused different levels of impaired folliculogenesis in young rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Cansu
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Karadeniz Technical University Faculty of Medicine, Trabzon, Turkey.
| | - Seren Gulsen Gurgen
- Vocational School of Health Services, Celal Bayar University Faculty of Medicine, Manisa, Turkey
| | - Yeseren Nil Demirhan
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Karadeniz Technical University Faculty of Medicine, Trabzon, Turkey
| | - Pınar Ozkan Kart
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Karadeniz Technical University Faculty of Medicine, Trabzon, Turkey
| | - Mehmet Yildirim
- Department of Physiology, Karadeniz Technical University Faculty of Medicine, Trabzon, Turkey
| | - Ahmet Alver
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Karadeniz Technical University Faculty of Medicine, Trabzon, Turkey
| | - Engin Yeni Lmez
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Karadeniz Technical University Faculty of Medicine, Trabzon, Turkey
| | - Fatma Müjgan Sönmez
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Karadeniz Technical University Faculty of Medicine, Trabzon, Turkey
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Zhang J, Wang H, Lu J, Yu Q, Fu P, Li Z, Feng Y, Wang Y, Deng Y, Shi D, Lu F. Granulosa cells affect in vitro maturation and subsequent parthenogenetic development of buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) oocytes. Reprod Domest Anim 2021; 57:141-148. [PMID: 34057767 DOI: 10.1111/rda.13974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Granulosa cells (GCs) play a crucial role in follicular development and atresia. Previous studies have showed that GCs in the form of monolayer influenced in vitro maturation (IVM) of oocytes. However, the effects of GCs in the form of conditioned medium and monolayer on IVM and development competence of buffalo oocytes remain unclear. In the present study, we examined the impacts of GC-conditioned medium (GCCM) and monolayer GC on maturation efficiency and embryo development of buffalo oocytes after parthenogenetic activation (PA). Our results showed that GCCM that was collected on day 2 and added to IVM medium at a 20% proportional level (2 days and 20%) exerted significant negative effects on IVM rate (41.6% vs. 44.5%), but significantly enhanced embryo development (oocyte cleavage, 81.3% vs. 69.3%; blastocyst formation, 36.3% vs. 29.3%) of buffalo oocytes after PA compared with the control group. Furthermore, monolayer GC significantly reduced both maturation efficiency (40.2% vs. 44.5%) and embryo development (oocyte cleavage, 60.6% vs. 69.3%; blastocyst formation, 20.6% vs. 29.3%) of buffalo oocytes after PA compared to the control group. Our study indicated that GCs in the form of GCCM (2 days and 20%) and monolayer GC had different effects on IVM and subsequent parthenogenetic development of buffalo oocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Haoxin Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Jiaka Lu
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Qing Yu
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Penghui Fu
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Zhengda Li
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Yun Feng
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Yanxin Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Yanfei Deng
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Deshun Shi
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Fenghua Lu
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
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Current perspectives on in vitro maturation and its effects on oocyte genetic and epigenetic profiles. SCIENCE CHINA-LIFE SCIENCES 2018; 61:633-643. [PMID: 29569023 DOI: 10.1007/s11427-017-9280-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2017] [Accepted: 12/26/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
In vitro maturation (IVM), the maturation in culture of immature oocytes, has been used in clinic for more than 20 years. Although IVM has the specific advantages of low cost and minor side effects over controlled ovarian stimulation, the prevalence of IVM is less than 1% of routine in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer techniques in many reproductive centers. In this review, we searched the MEDLINE database for all full texts and/or abstract articles published in English with content related to oocyte IVM mainly between 2000 and 2016. Many different aspects of the IVM method may influence oocyte potential, including priming, gonadotrophin, growth factors, and culture times. The culture conditions of IVM result in alterations in the oocyte or cumulus cell transcriptome that are not observed under in vivo culture conditions. Additionally, epigenetic modifications, such as DNA methylation or acetylation, are also different between in vitro and in vivo cultured oocytes. In sum, current IVM technique is still not popular and requires more systematic and intensive research to improve its effects and applications. This review will help point our problems, supply evidence or clues for future improving IVM technique, thus assist patients for fertility treatment or preservation as an additional option.
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Yong H, Oh HI, Lee SH, Cheong HT, Yang BK, Park CK. Treatment of Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF) enhances Nuclear Maturation of Porcine Oocytes and Stimulates Expression of ER/Golgi Transport Proteins. Dev Reprod 2017; 21:131-138. [PMID: 28785734 PMCID: PMC5532305 DOI: 10.12717/dr.2017.21.2.131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2017] [Revised: 04/10/2017] [Accepted: 04/14/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
This study was conducted to investigate stimulatory effect of epidermal growth factor (EGF) on nuclear maturation and the expression level of EGF-receptor (EGFR), GM-130 (a marker of Golgi apparatus), transport protein Sec61 subunit beta (Sec61β), and coatomer protein complex subunit gamma 2 (COPG2) in porcine oocytes. The cumulus-oocyte complexes were collected from follicle with 3-6 mm in diameter. They were incubated in medium with/without EGF for 22 h (IVMⅠ) and subsequently incubated hormone-free medium with/without EGF for 22 h (IVMⅡ). Nuclear maturation state was checked by aceto-orcein stain. Protein expression of EGFR, GM-130, Sec61β, and COPG2 were measured by immunofluorescence. In results, nuclear maturation of oocytes in EGF non-treated oocytes were significantly lower than EGF-treated groups at IVMⅠ or IVMⅡ stage (P<0.05), whereas maturational rate in EGF treatment groups at both of IVM stage was higher in among the all treatment groups (P<0.05). EGFR, GM-130, Sec61β and COPG2 were expressed in the cytoplasm of oocytes. Especially, GM-130 and EGFR were strongly expressed, but Sec61β and COPG2 were weakly expressed in cortical area of cytoplasm. The protein level of GM-130, Sec61β, and COPG2 were significantly higher in the EGF-treated groups (P<0.05). However EGFR was no difference between non EGF-treated groups and control. In conclusion, EGF plays an important role in the systems for oocyte maturation with endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi apparatus. In addition, the protein levels of Sec61β and COPG2 could be changed by EGF in the porcine oocytes during maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hwangbo Yong
- College of Animal Life Sciences, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Republic of Korea
| | - Hae-In Oh
- College of Animal Life Sciences, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang-Hee Lee
- Institute of Animal Resources , Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Republic of Korea
| | - Hee-Tae Cheong
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Republic of Kore
| | - Boo-Keun Yang
- College of Animal Life Sciences, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Republic of Korea
| | - Choon-Keun Park
- College of Animal Life Sciences, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Republic of Korea
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Souza-Fabjan JMG, Locatelli Y, Duffard N, Corbin E, Batista RITP, de Figueirêdo Freitas VJ, Beckers JF, Mermillod P. Intrinsic quality of goat oocytes already found denuded at collection for in vitro embryo production. Theriogenology 2016; 86:1989-98. [PMID: 27453560 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2016.06.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2016] [Revised: 06/07/2016] [Accepted: 06/17/2016] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Although cumulus cells are essential for efficient oocyte maturation, the establishment of protocols that support IVD of embryos obtained from denuded oocytes (DOCs) is important for optimizing the use of reproductive biotechnologies. Thus, this study aimed to establish a protocol for IVD of goat DOC using different strategies of IVM and methods of oocyte activation. Four experiments were performed. Similar developmental competence of slaughterhouse DOC was obtained, regardless of maturation media (complex, semidefined or simplified). However, the ability to reach the blastocyst stage was affected by the activation method. Denuded oocytes subjected to parthenogenetic activation had greater (P < 0.05) development capacity, compared with those undergoing IVF with average cleavage rate of 83% and 75%, blastocyst rate of 49% and 28%, and blastocysts in relation to the cleaved embryos of 59% and 38, respectively. In addition, the quality of embryos evaluated after vitrification/warming was similar between parthenogenetic activation and IVF. Finally, we demonstrated that the coculture of cumulus-oocyte complex (COC) with DOC increased the competence of DOC at a ratio of 1:1 and 1:9 (DOC:COC). We believe that presence of cumulus cells (CCs) is not essential to the meiotic maturation, if at the time of removal of the oocyte from follicular environment, they already acquired competence to development. However, when the oocytes still need to acquire competence, the presence of CC may significantly contribute in their developmental capacity acquisition during IVM. Thus, regardless of the source, these oocytes will require longer time in IVM, contrary to what happens in the absence of CC. In conclusion, although DOC had a lower developmental potential, especially after IVF, they were able to produce blastocysts and the coculture of DOC with COC increased this developmental capacity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Maria Gonçalves Souza-Fabjan
- INRA, UMR7247, Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, INRA, CNRS, Université de Tours, Haras Nationaux, Nouzilly, France; Laboratory of Physiology and Control of Reproduction, Veterinary School, State University of Ceará, Fortaleza, CE, Brazil.
| | - Yann Locatelli
- INRA, UMR7247, Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, INRA, CNRS, Université de Tours, Haras Nationaux, Nouzilly, France; Museum National d'Histoire Naturelle, Réserve de la Haute Touche, Obterre, France
| | - Nicolas Duffard
- INRA, UMR7247, Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, INRA, CNRS, Université de Tours, Haras Nationaux, Nouzilly, France; Museum National d'Histoire Naturelle, Réserve de la Haute Touche, Obterre, France
| | - Emilie Corbin
- INRA, UMR7247, Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, INRA, CNRS, Université de Tours, Haras Nationaux, Nouzilly, France
| | | | | | - Jean-François Beckers
- Laboratory of Endocrinology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Pascal Mermillod
- INRA, UMR7247, Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, INRA, CNRS, Université de Tours, Haras Nationaux, Nouzilly, France
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Jahromi BN, Mosallanezhad Z, Matloob N, Davari M, Ghobadifar MA. The potential role of granulosa cells in the maturation rate of immature human oocytes and embryo development: A co-culture study. Clin Exp Reprod Med 2015; 42:111-7. [PMID: 26473111 PMCID: PMC4604294 DOI: 10.5653/cerm.2015.42.3.111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2015] [Revised: 07/09/2015] [Accepted: 08/25/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective In order to increase the number of mature oocytes usable for intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), we aimed to investigate the effect of co-culturing granulosa cells (GCs) on human oocyte maturation in vitro, the fertilization rate, and embryo development. Methods A total of 133 immature oocytes were retrieved and were randomly divided into two groups; oocytes that were cultured with GCs (group A) and oocytes that were cultured without GCs (group B). After in vitro maturation, only oocytes that displayed metaphase II (MII) underwent the ICSI procedure. The maturation and fertilization rates were analyzed, as well as the frequency of embryo development. Results The mean age of the patients, their basal levels of follicle-stimulating hormone, and the number of oocytes recovered from the patients were all comparable between the two study groups. The number of oocytes that reached MII (mature oocytes) was 59 out of 70 (84.28%) in group A, compared to 41 out of 63 (65.07%) in group B (p=0.011). No significant difference between fertilization rates was found between the two study groups (p=0.702). The embryo development rate was higher in group A (33/59, 75%) than in group B (12/41, 42.85%; p=0.006). The proportion of highest-quality embryos and the blastocyst formation rate were significantly lower in group B than in group A (p=0.003 and p<0.001, respectively). Conclusion The findings of the current study demonstrate that culturing immature human oocytes with GCs prior to ICSI improves the maturation rate and the likelihood of embryo development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bahia Namavar Jahromi
- Infertility Research Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Zahra Mosallanezhad
- Student Research Committee, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Najmeh Matloob
- Infertility Research Center, Mother and Child Hospital, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Maryam Davari
- Infertility Research Center, Mother and Child Hospital, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mohamed Amin Ghobadifar
- Zoonoses Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Jahrom University of Medical Sciences, Jahrom, Iran
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Yang WJ, Liu FC, Hsieh JS, Chen CH, Hsiao SY, Lin CS. Matrix metalloproteinase 2 level in human follicular fluid is a reliable marker of human oocyte maturation in in vitro fertilization and intracytoplasmic sperm injection cycles. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2015; 13:102. [PMID: 26337061 PMCID: PMC4559921 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-015-0099-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2015] [Accepted: 08/23/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To determine whether matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and their tissue inhibitors (TIMP-1 and TIMP-2) in human follicular fluid, have any relationships with oocyte maturation in vivo and subsequent fertilization during in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) cycles. METHODS The follicular fluids were obtained from 150 female patients undergoing IVF/ICSI cycles and a total of 1504 oocytes were retrieved for analysis. MMP-2 and MMP-9 activities were measured using zymography assay. TIMP-1 and TIMP-2 concentrations were quantitatively assessed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). RESULTS Human follicular fluid MMP-2 level was significantly associated with the rate of maturity of oocytes (P < 0.001). Furthermore, the MMP-2 was significantly associated with the higher fertilization rate (P < 0.01). There was no significant correlation between follicular MMP-9 and the maturation rate of oocytes. The TIMP-1 and TIMP-2 also showed no correlation with the oocyte maturation rate. CONCLUSIONS The level of gelatinase MMP-2 in human follicular fluid might be a reliable marker of mature oocytes during IVF/ICSI cycles. Furthermore, the MMP-2 expression has a strong association with higher fertilization rate. Further studies are needed to support this theory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Jui Yang
- Department of Biological Science and Technology, National Chiao Tung University, Hsinchu City, Taiwan.
- Department of Fertility and Reproductive Medicine, Ton-Yen General Hospital, Hsinchu County, Taiwan.
- Division of Infertility and Reproductive Medicine, Taiwan IVF Group Center, Hsinchu City, Taiwan.
| | - Fon-Chang Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, Wei Gong Memorial Hospital, Miaoli County, Taiwan.
| | - Jih-Sheng Hsieh
- Department of Biological Science and Technology, National Chiao Tung University, Hsinchu City, Taiwan.
| | - Ching-Hung Chen
- Department of Fertility and Reproductive Medicine, Ton-Yen General Hospital, Hsinchu County, Taiwan.
| | - Shun-Yu Hsiao
- Department of Surgery, Mackay Memorial Hospital, Hsin-Chu Branch, No.690, Sec. 2, Guangfu Road, Hsinchu City, 30071, Taiwan.
| | - Chih-Sheng Lin
- Department of Biological Science and Technology, National Chiao Tung University, Hsinchu City, Taiwan.
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VandeVoort CA, Mtango NR, Midic U, Latham KE. Disruptions in follicle cell functions in the ovaries of rhesus monkeys during summer. Physiol Genomics 2015; 47:102-12. [PMID: 25586978 DOI: 10.1152/physiolgenomics.00092.2014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2014] [Accepted: 01/13/2015] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Oocytes isolated from female rhesus monkeys following standard ovarian stimulation protocols during the summer months displayed a reduced capacity to mature compared with stimulation during the normal breeding season. Because the gene expression profiles of oocyte-associated cumulus cells and mural granulosa cells (CCs and GCs) are indicative of altered oocyte quality and can provide insight into intrafollicular processes that may be disrupted during oogenesis, we performed array-based transcriptome comparisons of CCs and GCs from summer and normal breeding season stimulation cycles. Summer CCs and GCs both display deficiencies in expression of mRNAs related to cell proliferation, angiogenesis, and endocrine signaling, as well as reduced expression of glycogen phosphorylase. Additionally, CCs display deficiencies in expression of mRNAs related to stress response. These results provide the first insight into the specific molecular pathways and processes that are disrupted in the follicles of rhesus macaque females during the summer season. Some of the changes seen in summer GCs and CCs have been reported in humans and in other model mammalian species. This suggests that the seasonal effects seen in the rhesus monkey may help us to understand better the mechanisms that contribute to reduced oocyte quality and fertility in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine A VandeVoort
- California National Primate Research Center, University of California, Davis, California; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of California, Davis, California
| | - Namdori R Mtango
- The Fels Institute for Cancer Research & Molecular Biology, Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; and
| | - Uros Midic
- Department of Animal Science, Reproductive and Developmental Science Program and Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan
| | - Keith E Latham
- Department of Animal Science, Reproductive and Developmental Science Program and Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan
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The ABC of BTC: structural properties and biological roles of betacellulin. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2014; 28:42-8. [PMID: 24440602 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2014.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2013] [Accepted: 01/08/2014] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Betacellulin was initially detected as a growth-promoting factor in the conditioned medium of a mouse pancreatic β-cell tumor cell line. Sequencing of the purified protein and of the cloned cDNA supported the assumption that betacellulin is a new ligand of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), which was later confirmed experimentally. As a typical EGFR ligand, betacellulin is expressed by a variety of cell types and tissues, and the soluble growth factor is proteolytically cleaved from a larger membrane-anchored precursor. Importantly, BTC can - in addition to the EGFR - bind and activate all possible heterodimeric combinations of the related ERBB receptors including the highly oncogenic ERBB2/3 dimer, as well as homodimers of ERBB4. While a large number of studies attest a role for betacellulin in the differentiation of pancreatic β-cells, the last decade witnessed the association of betacellulin with a large number of additional biological processes, ranging from reproduction to the control of neural stem cells.
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Puttabyatappa M, Brogan RS, Vandevoort CA, Chaffin CL. EGF-like ligands mediate progesterone's anti-apoptotic action on macaque granulosa cells. Biol Reprod 2013; 88:18. [PMID: 23136296 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.112.103002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
A local autocrine/paracrine role for progesterone is an absolute requirement for corpus luteum formation in primates. Despite this, the mechanism(s) remain obscure, although existing data suggest an anti-apoptotic action to be central. There are a limited number of progestin-regulated gene targets identified in the luteinizing primate follicle, suggesting that a small number of important genes may mediate progesterone action. Possible gene targets could be the epidermal growth factor (EGF) family members amphiregulin (AREG) and epiregulin (EREG). Using macaques undergoing controlled ovarian stimulation cycles, we show that the phosphorylation of EGF receptor (EGFR), ERK 1/2, and AKT increases 6 h after an ovulatory human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) stimulus and remains activate through 24 h. Immunoreactive EREG and AREG ligands in the follicular fluid both increased in a time frame commensurate with EGFR phosphorylation. The mRNA expression of AREG and EREG in nonluteinized granulosa cells (NLGC) was induced in culture with hCG, an effect blocked by progesterone receptor (PGR) antagonists. Overexpression of PGR B in NLGC and treatment with a nonmetabolizable progestin did not increase either gene, indicating both progesterone and luteinizing hormone/CG are necessary. Addition of EGF and EGF-like ligands did not promote steroidogenesis in vitro by granulosa cells in the presence of gonadotropin, but were able to partially reverse RU486-induced cell death. These data suggest that progesterone promotes the expression of AREG and EREG, which in turn maintain viability of luteinizing granulosa cells, representing one possible mechanism whereby progesterone promotes corpus luteum formation in the primate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muraly Puttabyatappa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, MS331 UKMC, 800 Rose St., Lexington, KY 40536-0298, USA.
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Chaffin CL, Lee YS, VandeVoort CA, Patel BG, Latham KE. Rhesus monkey cumulus cells revert to a mural granulosa cell state after an ovulatory stimulus. Endocrinology 2012; 153:5535-45. [PMID: 23008515 PMCID: PMC3473200 DOI: 10.1210/en.2012-1733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Follicular somatic cells (mural granulosa cells and cumulus cells) and the oocyte communicate through paracrine interactions and through direct gap junctions between oocyte and cumulus cells. Considering that mural and cumulus cells arise through a common developmental pathway and that their differentiation is essential to reproductive success, understanding how these cells differ is a key aspect to understanding their critical functions. Changes in global gene expression before and after an ovulatory stimulus were compared between cumulus and mural granulosa cells to test the hypothesis that mural and cumulus cells are highly differentiated at the time of an ovulatory stimulus and further differentiate during the periovulatory interval. The transcriptomes of the two cell types were markedly different (>1500 genes) before an ovulatory hCG bolus but converged after ovulation to become completely overlapping. The predominant transition was for the cumulus cells to become more like mural cells after hCG. This indicates that the differentiated phenotype of the cumulus cell is not stable and irreversibly established but may rather be an ongoing physiological response to the oocyte.
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Cotterill M, Catt SL, Picton HM. Characterisation of the cellular and molecular responses of ovine oocytes and their supporting somatic cells to pre-ovulatory levels of LH and FSH during in vitro maturation. Reproduction 2012; 144:195-207. [DOI: 10.1530/rep-12-0031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The response of Graafian follicles to pre-ovulatory surge levels of FSH and LH in vivo triggers the terminal differentiation of granulosa cells and oocyte maturation. In polyovular species, the LH-driven signalling uses the epidermal growth factor (EGF)-like ligands AREG, EREG and BTC to promote oocyte maturation and cumulus expansion. This experimental series used a physiologically relevant ovine in vitro maturation (IVM) system to evaluate the impact of exposure to pre-ovulatory levels (100 ng/ml) of LH and FSH on ovine cumulus cell expression of EGF-like ligands in vitro. The serum-free sheep IVM system supported high levels (91.4%) of gonadotrophin-induced maturation of cumulus-enclosed oocytes and embryo development to the blastocyst stage (34.5%). Results were equivalent to a serum-based IVM system (85.1% IVM, 25.8% blastocyst rate; P>0.05) but were significantly different (P<0.05) to serum-free medium without gonadotrophins (69.5% IVM; 8.0% blastocyst rate). Ovine BTC was cloned and sequenced. Gonadotrophin-induced AREG, EREG, BTC and EGFR expressions were quantified in cumulus and mural granulosa cells during IVM. A rapid induction of AREG expression was apparent in both cell types within 30 min of gonadotrophin exposure in vitro. LHCGR (LHR) was detected in mural cells and FSHR in both cumulus and mural granulosa cells. The data confirm the involvement of AREG and EGFR during gonadotrophin-induced cumulus expansion, oocyte maturation and the acquisition of developmental competence by sheep oocytes matured in vitro.
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Mao J, Whitworth KM, Spate LD, Walters EM, Zhao J, Prather RS. Regulation of oocyte mitochondrial DNA copy number by follicular fluid, EGF, and neuregulin 1 during in vitro maturation affects embryo development in pigs. Theriogenology 2012; 78:887-97. [PMID: 22626782 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2012.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2012] [Revised: 03/20/2012] [Accepted: 04/09/2012] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Little is known about mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) replication during oocyte maturation and its regulation by extracellular factors. The present study determined the effects of supplementation of maturation medium with porcine follicular fluid (pFF; 0, 10%, 20%, and 30%) on mtDNA copy number and oocyte maturation in experiment 1; the effects on epidermal growth factor (EGF; 10 ng/mL), neuregulin 1 (NRG1; 20 ng/mL), and NRG1 + insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF1; 100 ng/mL + NRG1 20 ng/mL), on mtDNA copy number, oocyte maturation, and embryo development after parthenogenic activation in experiment 2; and effects on embryo development after in vitro fertilization in experiment 3. Overall, mtDNA copy number increased from germinal vesicle (GV) to metaphase II (MII) stage oocytes after in vitro maturation (GV: 167 634.6 ± 20 740.4 vs. MII: 275 131.9 ± 9 758.4 in experiment 1; P < 0.05; GV: 185 004.7 ± 20 089.3 vs. MII: 239 392.8 ± 10 345.3 in experiment 2; P < 0.05; Least Squares Means ± SEM). Supplementation of IVM medium with pFF inhibited mtDNA replication (266 789.9 ± 11 790.4 vs. 318 510.1 ± 20 377.4; P < 0.05) and oocyte meiotic maturation (67.3 ± 0.7% vs. 73.2 ± 1.2%, for the pFF supplemented and zero pFF control, respectively; P < 0.01). Compared with the control, addition of growth factors enhanced oocyte maturation. Furthermore, supplementation of NRG1 stimulated mitochondrial replication, increased mtDNA copies in MII oocytes than in GV oocytes, and increased percentage of blastocysts in both parthenogenetic and in vitro fertilized embryos. In this study, mitochondrial biogenesis in oocytes was stimulated during in vitro maturation. Oocyte mtDNA copy number was associated with developmental competence. Supplementation of maturation medium with NRG1 increased mtDNA copy number, and thus provides a means to improve oocyte quality and developmental competence in pigs.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Mao
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
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16
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Ouandaogo ZG, Frydman N, Hesters L, Assou S, Haouzi D, Dechaud H, Frydman R, Hamamah S. Differences in transcriptomic profiles of human cumulus cells isolated from oocytes at GV, MI and MII stages after in vivo and in vitro oocyte maturation. Hum Reprod 2012; 27:2438-47. [PMID: 22617121 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/des172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Oocyte maturation and competence to development depends on its close relationship with cumulus cells (CCs). However, the maturation conditions of human cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) might affect gene expression in both oocyte and CCs. We thus compared the transcriptome profiles of CCs isolated from in vivo and in vitro matured COCs at different nuclear maturation stages. METHODS Three groups of CCs from patients who underwent ICSI were included: CCs of patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) referred for in vitro maturation (IVM), CCs from patients with PCOS for in vivo maturation (used as controls) and CCs from normal responders referred for in vivo maturation. CCs were isolated from COCs at the germinal vesicle, metaphase I and metaphase II stages. Microarray technology was used to analyse the global gene expression and significance analysis of microarray to compare the expression profiles of CCs from COCs at different nuclear maturation stages following IVM or in vivo maturation. Selected genes were validated by RT-qPCR. RESULTS In CCs isolated after IVM, genes related to cumulus expansion and oocyte maturation, such as EREG, AREG and PTX3, were down-regulated, while cell cycle-related genes were up-regulated in comparison with CCs from in vivo matured COCs from PCOS and normal responder patients. Moreover, irrespective of the stage of oocyte maturation, genes involved in DNA replication, recombination and repair were up-regulated in CCs after IVM. CONCLUSIONS The CC transcriptomic signature varies according to both the oocyte maturation stage and the maturation conditions. Our findings suggest a delay in the acquisition of the mature CC phenotype following IVM, opening a new perspective for the improvement in IVM conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zamalou Gisèle Ouandaogo
- CHU Montpellier, Institute for Research in Biotherapy, Hôpital Saint-Eloi, and Université Montpellier 1, UFR de Médecine, Montpellier F-34295, France
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Peluffo MC, Ting AY, Zamah AM, Conti M, Stouffer RL, Zelinski MB, Hennebold JD. Amphiregulin promotes the maturation of oocytes isolated from the small antral follicles of the rhesus macaque. Hum Reprod 2012; 27:2430-7. [PMID: 22593432 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/des158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In non-primates, the epidermal growth factor (EGF) and EGF-related ligands such as amphiregulin (AREG) serve as critical intermediates between the theca/mural cells and the cumulus-oocyte-complex (COC) following the mid-cycle LH surge. Studies were designed in primates (1) to analyze AREG levels in follicular fluid (follicular fluid) obtained from pre-ovulatory follicles, as well as (2) to assess dose-dependent effects of AREG on oocytes from small antral follicles (SAFs) during culture, including meiotic and cytoplasmic maturation. METHODS Controlled ovulation protocols were performed on rhesus monkeys (n=12) to determine AREG content within the single, naturally selected dominant follicle after an ovulatory stimulus. Using healthy COCs (n=271) obtained from SAFs during spontaneous cycles (n=27), in vitro maturation (IVM) was performed in the absence or presence of physiological concentrations of AREG (10 or 100 ng/ml) with or without gonadotrophins (FSH, 75 mIU/ml; LH, 75 mIU/ml). At the end of the culture period, oocyte meiotic maturation was evaluated and ICSI was performed (n=111), from which fertilization and early embryo development was followed in vitro. RESULTS AREG levels in follicular fluid from pre-ovulatory follicles increased (P<0.05) following an ovulatory bolus of hCG at 12, 24 and 36 h post-treatment. At 12 h post-hCG, AREG levels in follicular fluid ranged from 4.8 to 121.4 ng/ml. Rhesus macaque COCs incubated with 10 ng/ml AREG in the presence of gonadotrophins displayed an increased percentage of oocytes that progressed to the metaphase II (MII) stage of meiosis (82 versus 56%, P<0.05) and a decreased percentage of metaphase I (MI) oocytes (2 versus 23%, P<0.05) relative to controls, respectively. The percentage of either MI or MII oocytes at the end of the culture period was not different between oocytes cultured with 100 ng/ml AREG or in media alone. Fertilization and first cleavage rates obtained by ICSI of all IVM MII oocytes were 93 and 98%, respectively, and did not vary among treatment groups. Of the MII oocytes that fertilized (n=103), 37 were randomly selected and maintained in culture to assess developmental potential. A total of 13 early blastocysts were obtained, with four embryos developing to expanded blastocysts. CONCLUSIONS These data indicate that AREG levels increase in rhesus macaque pre-ovulatory follicles after an ovulatory stimulus, and a specific concentration of AREG (10 ng/ml) enhances rhesus macaque oocyte nuclear maturation but not cytoplasmic maturation from SAFs obtained during the natural menstrual cycle. However, owing to the small number of samples in some treatment groups, further studies are now required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina C Peluffo
- Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas (CEDIE-CONICET), Hospital de Niños Ricardo Gutierrez, Gallo 1330, C1425SEFD Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
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18
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Zhang A, Xu B, Sun Y, Lu X, Niu Z, Chen Q, Feng Y, Xu C. The effect of human cumulus cells on the maturation and developmental potential of immature oocytes in ICSI cycles. J Assist Reprod Genet 2012; 29:313-9. [PMID: 22354726 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-012-9712-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2011] [Accepted: 01/10/2012] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate the effect of human cumulus cells on the maturation and developmental potential of immature oocytes in ICSI cycles. METHODS Immature oocytes were randomly divided into two groups: the cumulus-denuded oocyte group (group A) and the cumulus-intact oocyte group (group B). Only oocytes that reached metaphase II (MII) stage after in vitro maturation were used in the ICSI procedure. In vivo mature sibling MII oocytes served as the control group. Maturation rate, fertilization rate, embryo quality and developmental potential were examined. RESULTS There was no significant difference in maturation rate between group A (68.16%) and group B (70.49%; P > 0.05). The total fertilization rate among the three groups was comparable (P > 0.05), while the zygotes with two pronuclei in group A (74.59%) or group B (75.97%) were significantly lower than those in control group (84.29%; P < 0.05). The available embryo rate in group A (11.49%) was markedly lower than that in group B (27.66%; P < 0.05), and both of them were significantly lower than that in control group (62.38%; P < 0.05). The proportion of ≥6-cell embryos in group B (45.74%) was notably higher than in group A (26.44%; P < 0.05), and both were markedly lower than in control group (65.92%; P < 0.05). The proportion of embryos with <10% fragmentation in group A (13.79%) was significantly lower than in group B (29.79%; P < 0.05), and both were notably lower than in control group (42.98%; P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS The presence of cumulus cells surrounding the immature oocytes during IVM before ICSI had no influence on nuclear maturation and fertilization, but leads to better subsequent embryonic development. This is perhaps mediated by an improvement in cytoplasmic maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aijun Zhang
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
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Dey SR, Deb GK, Ha AN, Lee JI, Bang JI, Lee KL, Kong IK. Coculturing denuded oocytes during the in vitro maturation of bovine cumulus oocyte complexes exerts a synergistic effect on embryo development. Theriogenology 2011; 77:1064-77. [PMID: 22153275 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2011.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2011] [Revised: 10/03/2011] [Accepted: 10/08/2011] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The present study examined the effect of coculturing cumulus oocyte complexes (COCs) and denuded oocytes (DOs) during in vitro maturation (IVM) on nuclear and cytoplasmic maturation, zona pellucida (ZP) hardening, the pattern of fertilization and glutathione peroxidase 1 (GPX1) gene expression in the oocyte. Furthermore, the rate of embryonic development and the quality of blastocysts were examined for both COCs and DOs. Three IVM conditions were studied: 1) the coculture of 12 COCs and 60 DOs, 2) COC control with 12 COCs, and 3) DO control with 60 DOs. The IVM was performed in a 120-μl droplet of TCM199-based IVM medium. Following IVM, in vitro fertilization (IVF) and in vitro culture (IVC) were conducted separately for the COCs and DOs (DO coculture) from the IVM coculture group. Coculturing COCs and DOs increased the percentage of oocytes reaching the blastocyst stage and the total number of cells per blastocyst in both the COC coculture (44.4 ± 8.6 vs 26.7 ± 9.7%, P < 0.01, and 137.9 ± 24.9 vs 121.7 ± 21.1, P < 0.05) and the DO coculture (20.5 ± 5.0 vs 11.1 ± 2.5%, P < 0.01, and 121.9 ± 27.5 vs 112.3 ± 33.2, P < 0.05) compared to their respective control groups. The synergistic effects of coculturing were detected as increased nuclear and cytoplasmic maturation, the prevention of ZP hardening, increased monospermic fertilization and increased expression of GPX1 in the oocytes in response to endogenous oocyte-secreted factors. In conclusion, coculturing COCs and DOs may be an effective culture system for both intact COCs and immature DOs.
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Affiliation(s)
- S R Dey
- Division of Applied Life Science (BK21 Program), Graduate School of Gyeongsang, National University, Republic of Korea
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Pereira AF, Alcântara Neto AS, Albuquerque ES, Luciano MCS, Teixeira DIA, Freitas VJF, Melo LM. Goat oocyte production by standard or one-shot FSH treatments and quantitative analysis of transcripts for EGF ligands and its receptor after in vitro maturation. Reprod Domest Anim 2011; 47:244-51. [PMID: 21923881 DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0531.2011.01845.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Hormonal ovarian stimulation may affect the success of embryo production by regulating transcripts in recovered cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs). Here, in parallel to morphological classification and in vitro maturation (IVM) rate analysis, we investigated the expression of epidermal growth factor (EGF) and its receptor (EGFR) in oocytes and cumulus cells from goat COCs recovered by laparoscopy after standard [multi-dose follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)] or one-shot (single dose FSH plus eCG) treatments. No differences were observed among the number of recovered and morphologically graded COCs or the IVM rates for both gonadotropic treatments. However, the standard protocol produced COCs with higher EGFR expression in the cumulus cells than the one-shot treatment. Additionally, EGF mRNA levels were less than EGFR mRNA levels, and they did not differ among COCs from both treatments. However, during maturation, the EGF transcripts increased in oocytes derived only from the standard protocol. Interestingly, IVM strikingly increased EGFR expression in oocytes and cumulus cells but not in oocytes that fail in first polar body extrusion, irrespective of hormonal treatment. These results appear to be related to the resumption of meiosis and suggest that EGF may act through the cumulus cells or directly on the oocyte receptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- A F Pereira
- Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Estadual do Ceará, Fortaleza-CE, Brazil
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Lee YS, VandeVoort CA, Gaughan JP, Midic U, Obradovic Z, Latham KE. Extensive effects of in vitro oocyte maturation on rhesus monkey cumulus cell transcriptome. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2011; 301:E196-209. [PMID: 21487073 PMCID: PMC3129840 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00686.2010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The elaboration of a quality oocyte is integrally linked to the correct developmental progression of cumulus cell phenotype. In humans and nonhuman primates, oocyte quality is diminished with in vitro maturation. To determine the changes in gene expression in rhesus monkey cumulus cells (CC) that occur during the final day prior to oocyte maturation and how these changes differ between in vitro (IVM) and in vivo maturation (VVM), we completed a detailed comparison of transcriptomes using the Affymetrix gene array. We observed a large number of genes differing in expression when comparing IVM-CC and VVM-CC directly but a much larger number of differences when comparing the transitions from the prematuration to the post-IVM and post-VVM states. We observed a truncation or delay in the normal pattern of gene regulation but also remarkable compensatory changes in gene expression during IVM. Among the genes affected by IVM are those that contribute to productive cell-cell interactions between cumulus cell and oocyte and between cumulus cells. Numerous genes involved in lipid metabolism are incorrectly regulated during IVM, and the synthesis of sex hormones appears not to be suppressed during IVM. We identified a panel of 24 marker genes, the expression of which should provide the foundation for understanding how IVM can be improved for monitoring IVM conditions and for diagnosing oocyte quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Young S Lee
- Fels Institute for Cancer Research & Molecular Biology, Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA
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Zamah AM, Hsieh M, Chen J, Vigne JL, Rosen MP, Cedars MI, Conti M. Human oocyte maturation is dependent on LH-stimulated accumulation of the epidermal growth factor-like growth factor, amphiregulin. Hum Reprod 2010; 25:2569-78. [PMID: 20719813 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deq212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The LH surge promotes ovulation via activation of multiple signaling networks in the ovarian follicle. Studies in animal models have shown the importance of LH-induced activation of the epidermal growth factor (EGF)signaling network in critical peri-ovulatory events. We investigated the biological significance of regulatory mechanisms mediated by EGF-like growth factors during LH stimulation in humans. METHODS We characterized the EGF signaling network in mature human ovarian follicles using in vivo and in vitro approaches. Amphiregulin (AREG) levels were measured in 119 follicular fluid (FF) samples from IVF/ICSI patients. Biological activity of human FF was assessed using in vitro oocyte maturation, cumulus expansion and cell mitogenic assays. RESULTS AREG is the most abundant EGF-like growth factor accumulating in the FF of mature follicles of hCG-stimulated patients. No AREG was detected before the LH surge or before hCG stimulation of granulosa cells in vitro, demonstrating that the accumulation of AREG requires gonadotrophin stimulation. Epiregulin and betacellulin mRNA were detected in both human mural and cumulus granulosa cells, although at significantly lower levels than AREG. FF from stimulated follicles causes cumulus expansion and oocyte maturation in a reconstitution assay. Immunodepletion of AREG abolishes the ability of FF to stimulate expansion (P < 0.0001) and oocyte maturation (P < 0.05), confirming the biological activity of AREG. Conversely, mitogenic activity of FF remained after depletion of AREG, indicating that other mitogens accumulate in FF. FF from follicles yielding an immature germinal vesicle oocyte or from an oocyte that develops into an aberrant embryo contains lower AREG levels than that from follicles yielding a healthy oocyte (P = 0.008). CONCLUSIONS EGF-like growth factors play a role in critical peri-ovulatory events in humans, and AREG accumulation is a useful marker of gonadotrophin stimulation and oocyte competence.
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Affiliation(s)
- A M Zamah
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, University of California San Francisco, 2356 Sutter Street, 7th Floor, San Francisco, CA 94115, USA.
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Tkachenko OY, Delimitreva S, Isachenko E, Valle RR, Michelmann HW, Berenson A, Nayudu PL. Epidermal growth factor effects on marmoset monkey (Callithrix jacchus) oocyte in vitro maturation, IVF and embryo development are altered by gonadotrophin concentration during oocyte maturation. Hum Reprod 2010; 25:2047-58. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deq148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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Nautiyal J, Steel JH, Rosell MM, Nikolopoulou E, Lee K, Demayo FJ, White R, Richards JS, Parker MG. The nuclear receptor cofactor receptor-interacting protein 140 is a positive regulator of amphiregulin expression and cumulus cell-oocyte complex expansion in the mouse ovary. Endocrinology 2010; 151:2923-32. [PMID: 20308529 PMCID: PMC2875814 DOI: 10.1210/en.2010-0081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The nuclear receptor cofactor receptor-interacting protein 140 (RIP140) is essential for cumulus cell-oocyte complex (COC) expansion, follicular rupture, and oocyte release during ovulation. The expression of many genes necessary for COC expansion is impaired in the absence of RIP140, but the studies herein document that their expression can be restored and COC expansion rescued by treatment with the epidermal growth factor (EGF)-like factor amphiregulin (AREG) both in vitro and in vivo. We demonstrate by several approaches that RIP140 is required for the expression of the EGF-like factors in granulosa cells, but the dependence of genes involved in cumulus expansion, including Ptgs2 Has2, Tnfaip6, and Ptx3, is indirect because they are induced by AREG. Treatment of granulosa cells with forskolin to mimic the effects of LH increases AREG promoter activity in a RIP140-dependent manner that 1) requires an intact cAMP response element in the proximal promoter region of the Areg gene and 2) involves its actions as a coactivator for cAMP response element-binding protein/c-Jun transcription factors. Although human chorionic gonadotropin and AREG coadministration is sufficient to restore ovulation fully in RIP140 heterozygous mice in vivo, both follicular rupture and ovulation remain impaired in the RIP140 null mice. Thus, we conclude that although the level of RIP140 expression in the ovary is a crucial factor required for the transient expression of EGF-like factors necessary for cumulus expansion, it also plays a role in other signaling pathways that induce follicular rupture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaya Nautiyal
- Molecular Endocrinology Laboratory, Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Campus, Du Cane Road, London W12 0NN, United Kingdom
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