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Malo C, Oliván S, Ochoa I, Shikanov A. In Vitro Growth of Human Follicles: Current and Future Perspectives. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1510. [PMID: 38338788 PMCID: PMC10855051 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25031510] [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: 12/24/2023] [Revised: 01/21/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Ovarian tissue cryopreservation is gaining importance as a successful method to restore fertility to girls and young women at high risk of sterility. However, there are concerns regarding the safety of transplantation after ovarian tissue cryopreservation due to the high risk of reintroducing cancer cells and causing disease recurrence. In these cases, the development of culture systems that support oocyte development from the primordial follicle stage is required. Notable achievements have been reached in human follicle in vitro growth in the past decade. Currently, systems for the in vitro culture of ovarian tissue are based on two-dimensional substrates that do not support the survival of follicles or recapitulate the mechanical heterogenicity in the mammalian ovary. Recognition of the importance of special arrangements between cells has spurred research in three-dimensional culture systems, and the provision of a precise culture system that maximizes the diffusion of nutrients and gases through the follicles has raised interest in advanced biomimetic models. The current review critically examines various culture systems employed for the in vitro development of follicles, with a particular focus on solutions utilizing Organ-on-a-Chip (OOC) technology. The emphasis on OOC technology underscores its role as a promising avenue in ensuring the successful cultivation and maintenance of follicular structures during the culture period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clara Malo
- Tissue Microenvironment (TME) Lab, Aragón Institute of Engineering Research (I3A), University of Zaragoza, 50018 Zaragoza, Spain; (S.O.); (I.O.)
- Institute for Health Research Aragón (IIS Aragón), 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Sara Oliván
- Tissue Microenvironment (TME) Lab, Aragón Institute of Engineering Research (I3A), University of Zaragoza, 50018 Zaragoza, Spain; (S.O.); (I.O.)
- Institute for Health Research Aragón (IIS Aragón), 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Ignacio Ochoa
- Tissue Microenvironment (TME) Lab, Aragón Institute of Engineering Research (I3A), University of Zaragoza, 50018 Zaragoza, Spain; (S.O.); (I.O.)
- Institute for Health Research Aragón (IIS Aragón), 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 50018 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Ariella Shikanov
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA;
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
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Ebrahimi M, Dattena M, Luciano AM, Succu S, Gadau SD, Mara L, Chessa F, Berlinguer F. In vitro culture of sheep early-antral follicles: Milestones, challenges and future perspectives. Theriogenology 2024; 213:114-123. [PMID: 37839290 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.09.025] [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: 06/03/2023] [Revised: 08/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023]
Abstract
Early antral follicles (EAFs) represent the transitional stage between pre-antral and antral follicles, containing oocytes that have completed most of their growth phase. Therefore, they offer an easily exploitable reserve for producing mature oocytes and preserving genetic resources, given their higher abundance compared to antral follicles (AFs) and shorter culture period than other pre-antral follicles (PAFs). Despite these advantages, the culture of EAFs remains challenging, and the success rates of in vitro embryo production (IVEP) from EAF-derived oocytes are still far below the standard achieved with fully grown oocytes in ruminant species. The difficulty is related to developing suitable in vitro culture systems tailored with nutrients, growth factors, and other signaling molecules to support oocyte growth. In this review, we focus on the in vitro development of sheep EAFs to provide an informative reference to current research progress. We also summarize the basic aspect of folliculogenesis in sheep and the main achievements and limitations of the current methods for EAF isolation, in vitro culture systems, and medium supplementation. Finally, we highlight future perspectives and challenges for improving EAF culture outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammadreza Ebrahimi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, Via Vienna 2, Sassari, Italy; Department of Animal Science, Agricultural Research Agency of Sardinia, 07100, Sassari, Italy.
| | - Maria Dattena
- Department of Animal Science, Agricultural Research Agency of Sardinia, 07100, Sassari, Italy
| | - Alberto Maria Luciano
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of Milan, Via dell'Università, 6, 26900, Lodi, Italy
| | - Sara Succu
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, Via Vienna 2, Sassari, Italy
| | - Sergio Domenico Gadau
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, Via Vienna 2, Sassari, Italy
| | - Laura Mara
- Department of Animal Science, Agricultural Research Agency of Sardinia, 07100, Sassari, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Chessa
- Department of Animal Science, Agricultural Research Agency of Sardinia, 07100, Sassari, Italy
| | - Fiammetta Berlinguer
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, Via Vienna 2, Sassari, Italy
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Khaleghi S, Eivazkhani F, Tavana S, Moini A, Novin MG, Stoyan P, Nazarian H, Fathi R. Follicular reconstruction and neo-oogenesis in xenotransplantation of human ovarian isolated cells derived from chemotherapy-induced POF patients. J Biol Eng 2023; 17:70. [PMID: 37986177 PMCID: PMC10662631 DOI: 10.1186/s13036-023-00384-2] [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: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Developing new strategies to restore fertility in patients with chemotherapy-induced Premature Ovarian Failure (Chemo-POF) is important. We aimed to construct an Artificial Ovary (AO) by seeding Human Ovarian Cortical Cells (HOCCs) into Human ovarian Decellularized Cortical Tissue (DCT). We assessed the AO's ability to produce new ovarian follicles following xenotransplantation to NMRI mice. MATERIAL AND METHODS The DCTs were prepared, and cell removal was confirmed through DNA content, MTT assay, DAPI and H&E staining. Next, HOCCs were isolated from both Chemo-POF and Trans (as a control group) ovarian patients. The HOCCs were characterized using immunostaining (FRAGILIS, Vimentin, and Inhibin α) and real time PCR (DDX4, STELLA, FRAGILIS, Vimentin, FSH-R, KI67) assays. The HOCCs were then seeded into the DCTs and cultured for one week to construct an AO, which was subsequently xenotransplanted into the mice. The existence of active follicles within the AO was studied with H&E and immunofluorescence (GDF9) staining, Real-time PCR (GDF9, ZP3) and hormone analysis (Estradiol, FSH and AMH). RESULTS The results of gene expression and immunostaining showed that 85-86% of the isolated cells from both Trans and Chemo-POF groups were positive for vimentin, while 2-5% were granulosa cells and OSCs were less than 3%. After xenotransplantation, histological study confirmed the presence of morphologically healthy reconstructed human ovarian follicles. Additionally, immunofluorescence staining of GDF9 and hormonal assay confirmed the presence of secretory-active follicles on the AO. CONCLUSION Our findings demonstrate that an artificial ovary produced by seeding HOCCs on DCT can support HOCCs proliferation as well as neo-oogenesis, and enable sex hormone secretion following xenotransplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Khaleghi
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farideh Eivazkhani
- Department of Embryology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Somayeh Tavana
- Department of Embryology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ashraf Moini
- Department of Endocrinology and Female Infertility, Royan Institute of Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
- Breast Disease Research Center (BDRC), Tehran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | - Marefat Ghaffari Novin
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Petkov Stoyan
- Platform Degenerative Diseases, German Primate Center, GmbH, Leibniz Institute for Primate Research, Göttingen, 37077, Germany
- German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Göttingen, Göttingen, 37077, Germany
| | - Hamid Nazarian
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Rouhollah Fathi
- Department of Embryology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran.
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Jitjumnong J, Tang PC. Bone Morphogenetic Protein 15 (BMP-15) Improves In Vitro Mouse Folliculogenesis. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13060980. [PMID: 36978521 PMCID: PMC10044016 DOI: 10.3390/ani13060980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Revised: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Multilayered secondary follicles were encapsulated in a 0.5% alginate matrix and cultured in a 3D culture system supplemented with bone morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP-15; 15 ng/mL) for 12 days. The in vitro development of ovarian follicles was evaluated. On day 12, the follicle diameter, follicle survival rate, and antrum formation rate were significantly higher for follicles cultured in BMP-15-supplemented medium than those cultured in regular medium. The percentage of ovulated metaphase II oocytes retrieved from follicles cultured in BMP-15-supplemented medium was greater than that of oocytes retrieved from follicles cultured in regular medium. The secretion of P4 was significantly higher on days 6, 8, and 10 in follicles cultured in BMP-15-supplemented medium. The result for E2 tended toward significance on day 12. Intracellular reactive oxygen species levels were higher and glutathione levels were lower in mature oocytes from the in vitro culture than in mature oocytes from an in vivo control. A 3D culture system using an alginate matrix and supplemented with BMP-15 effectively improves the outcomes of in vitro ovarian follicle culture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jakree Jitjumnong
- Department of Animal Science, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 40227, Taiwan
| | - Pin-Chi Tang
- Department of Animal Science, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 40227, Taiwan
- The iEGG and Animal Biotechnology Center, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 40227, Taiwan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +886-4-2284-0365 (ext. 222); Fax: +886-4-2286-0265
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Ghorbani S, Eyni H, Norahan MH, Zarrintaj P, Urban N, Mohammadzadeh A, Mostafavi E, Sutherland DS. Advanced bioengineering of female germ cells to preserve fertility. Biol Reprod 2022; 107:1177-1204. [PMID: 35947985 PMCID: PMC10144627 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac160] [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: 05/06/2022] [Revised: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Oogenesis and folliculogenesis are considered as complex and species-specific cellular differentiation processes, which depend on the in vivo ovarian follicular environment and endocrine cues. Considerable efforts have been devoted to driving the differentiation of female primordial germ cells toward mature oocytes outside of the body. The recent experimental attempts have laid stress on offering a suitable microenvironment to assist the in vitro folliculogenesis and oogenesis. Despite developing a variety of bioengineering techniques and generating functional mature gametes through in vitro oogenesis in earlier studies, we still lack knowledge of appropriate microenvironment conditions for building biomimetic culture systems for female fertility preservation. Therefore, this review paper can provide a source for a large body of scientists developing cutting-edge in vitro culture systems for female germ cells or setting up the next generation of reproductive medicine as feasible options for female infertility treatment. The focal point of this review outlines advanced bioengineering technologies such as 3D biofabricated hydrogels/scaffolds and microfluidic systems utilized with female germlines for fertility preservation through in vitro folliculogenesis and oogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sadegh Ghorbani
- Interdisciplinary Nanoscience Center (iNANO), Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Hossein Eyni
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hadi Norahan
- School of Engineering and Sciences, Tecnologico de Monterrey Unviersity, Monterrey, NL, Mexico
| | - Payam Zarrintaj
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Montana, Missoula, MT, USA
| | - Nadine Urban
- Freiburg Centre for Interactive Materials and Bioinspired Technology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | | | - Ebrahim Mostafavi
- Stanford Cardiovascular Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Duncan S Sutherland
- Interdisciplinary Nanoscience Center (iNANO), Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
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6
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Dadashzadeh A, Moghassemi S, Shavandi A, Amorim CA. A review on biomaterials for ovarian tissue engineering. Acta Biomater 2021; 135:48-63. [PMID: 34454083 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2021.08.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2021] [Revised: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Considerable challenges in engineering the female reproductive tissue are the follicle's unique architecture, the need to recapitulate the extracellular matrix, and tissue vascularization. Over the years, various strategies have been developed for preserving fertility in women diagnosed with cancer, such as embryo, oocyte, or ovarian tissue cryopreservation. While autotransplantation of cryopreserved ovarian tissue is a viable choice to restore fertility in prepubertal girls and women who need to begin chemo- or radiotherapy soon after the cancer diagnosis, it is not suitable for all patients due to the risk of having malignant cells present in the ovarian fragments in some types of cancer. Advances in tissue engineering such as 3D printing and ovary-on-a-chip technologies have the potential to be a translational strategy for precisely recapitulating normal tissue in terms of physical structure, vascularization, and molecular and cellular spatial distribution. This review first introduces the ovarian tissue structure, describes suitable properties of biomaterials for ovarian tissue engineering, and highlights recent advances in tissue engineering for developing an artificial ovary. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: The increase of survival rates in young cancer patients has been accompanied by a rise in infertility/sterility in cancer survivors caused by the gonadotoxic effect of some chemotherapy regimens or radiotherapy. Such side-effect has a negative impact on these patients' quality of life as one of their main concerns is generating biologically related children. To aid female cancer patients, several research groups have been resorting to tissue engineering strategies to develop an artificial ovary. In this review, we discuss the numerous biomaterials cited in the literature that have been tested to encapsulate and in vitro culture or transplant isolated preantral follicles from human and different animal models. We also summarize the recent advances in tissue engineering that can potentially be optimal strategies for developing an artificial ovary.
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7
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Delaying Reproductive Aging by Ovarian Tissue Cryopreservation and Transplantation: Is it Prime Time? Trends Mol Med 2021; 27:753-761. [PMID: 33549473 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2021.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2020] [Revised: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 01/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Ovarian tissue cryopreservation and autotransplantation can restore ovarian endocrine function and fertility and recently were changed from experimental to fertility preservation procedures for medical indications by the American Society of Reproductive Medicine. Such advances have resulted in discussions around the utility of ovarian cryopreservation in healthy women to preserve fertility and delay menopause or as a hormone replacement approach. Such 'elective' use of ovarian tissue cryopreservation requires a risk-benefit assessment. Here, we review evidence for and against the utility of ovarian tissue harvesting in healthy women, scrutinize recent and needed advances to enhance the feasibility of such an approach, and provide practice and future research guidelines.
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8
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Gandolfi F, Ghiringhelli M, Brevini TA. Bioengineering the ovary to preserve and reestablish female fertility. Anim Reprod 2020; 16:45-51. [PMID: 33299478 PMCID: PMC7721072 DOI: 10.21451/1984-3143-ar2018-0099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2018] [Accepted: 10/04/2018] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Different bioengineering strategies can be presently adopted and have been shown to have great potential in the treatment of female infertility and ovarian dysfunction deriving from chemotherapy, congenital malformations, massive adhesions as well as aging and lifestyle. One option is transplantation of fresh or cryopreserved organs/fragments into the patient. A further possibility uses tissue engineering approaches that involve a combination of cells, biomaterials and factors that stimulate local ability to regenerate/ repair the reproductive organ. Organ transplant has shown promising results in large animal models. However, the source of the organ needs to be identified and the immunogenic effects of allografts remain still to be solved before the technology may enter the clinical practice. Decellularization/ repopulation of ovary with autologous cells or follicles could represent an interesting, still very experimental alternative. Here we summarize the recent advancements in the bioengineering strategies applied to the ovary, we present the principles for these systems and discuss the advantages of these emerging opportunities to preserve or improve female fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fulvio Gandolfi
- Department of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences - Production, Landscape, Agroenergy, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano 20122, Italy.
| | - Matteo Ghiringhelli
- Department of Health, Animal Science and Food Safety, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano 20122, Italy.
| | - Tiziana A.L. Brevini
- Department of Health, Animal Science and Food Safety, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano 20122, Italy.
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9
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Grafted polymer brush coatings for growth of cow granulosa cells and oocyte-cumulus cell complexes. Biointerphases 2020; 15:031006. [PMID: 32443936 DOI: 10.1116/6.0000183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
In the present work, three types of grafted brush coatings [P4VP, POEGMA246, and P(4VP-co-POEGMA246)] were successfully fabricated using graft polymerization of monomers "from the surface." The composition, thickness, and morphology of the grafted brush coatings were analyzed by TOF-SIMS, ellipsometry, and AFM, respectively. The chemical nature of the polymer surface plays a crucial role in the growth and development of the cow granulosa cells and, therefore, also oocyte-cumulus complexes. In comparison with other coatings, the P(4VP-co-POEGMA246) copolymer coating enables the formation of dispersed and small but numerous cell conglomerates and high cumulus expansion in oocyte-cumulus complexes with highly homogeneous cumulus layers surrounding the oocytes. Moreover, the cellular oxygen uptake for this coating in the presence of NaF (inhibitor glycolysis) was stimulated. This new (4VP-co-POEGMA246) copolymer nanostructured coating is a promising material for granulosa cell and oocyte-cumulus complex cultivation and possibly will have great potential for applications in veterinary and reproductive medicine.
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10
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Simon LE, Kumar TR, Duncan FE. In vitro ovarian follicle growth: a comprehensive analysis of key protocol variables†. Biol Reprod 2020; 103:455-470. [PMID: 32406908 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioaa073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2020] [Revised: 05/06/2020] [Accepted: 05/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Folliculogenesis is a complex process that requires integration of autocrine, paracrine, and endocrine factors together with tightly regulated interactions between granulosa cells and oocytes for the growth and survival of healthy follicles. Culture of ovarian follicles is a powerful approach for investigating folliculogenesis and oogenesis in a tightly controlled environment. This method has not only enabled unprecedented insight into the fundamental biology of follicle development but also has far-reaching translational applications, including in fertility preservation for women whose ovarian follicles may be damaged by disease or its treatment or in wildlife conservation. Two- and three-dimensional follicle culture systems have been developed and are rapidly evolving. It is clear from a review of the literature on isolated follicle culture methods published over the past two decades (1980-2018) that protocols vary with respect to species examined, follicle isolation methods, culture techniques, culture media and nutrient and hormone supplementation, and experimental endpoints. Here we review the heterogeneity among these major variables of follicle culture protocols.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leah E Simon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - T Rajendra Kumar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Francesca E Duncan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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Pennarossa G, Ghiringhelli M, Gandolfi F, Brevini TAL. Whole-ovary decellularization generates an effective 3D bioscaffold for ovarian bioengineering. J Assist Reprod Genet 2020; 37:1329-1339. [PMID: 32361917 PMCID: PMC7311562 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-020-01784-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2019] [Accepted: 04/14/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To develop a new protocol for whole-ovary decellularization for the production of a 3D bioscaffold suitable for in vitro/ex vivo studies and for the reconstruction of a bioengineered ovary. METHODS Porcine ovaries were subjected to the decellularization process (DECELL; n = 20) that involved a freeze-thaw cycle, followed by sequential incubations in 0.5% SDS for 3 h, 1% Triton X-100 for 9 h, and 2% deoxycholate for 12 h. Untreated ovaries were used as a control (CTR; n = 6). Both groups were analyzed to evaluate cell and DNA removal as well as ECM preservation. DECELL bioscaffolds were assessed for cytotoxicity and cell homing ability. RESULTS DECELL ovaries maintained shape and homogeneity without any deformation, while their color turned from red to white. Histological staining and DNA quantification confirmed a decrease of 98.11% in DNA content, compared with the native tissue (CTR). Histochemical assessments demonstrated the preservation of intact ECM microarchitecture after the decellularization process. This was also confirmed by quantitative analysis of collagen, elastin, and GAG contents. DECELL bioscaffold showed no cytotoxic effects in co-culture and, when re-seeded with homologous fibroblasts, encouraged a rapid cell adhesion and migration, with repopulating cells increasing in number and aggregating in cluster-like structures, consistent with its ability to sustain cell adherence, proliferation, and differentiation. CONCLUSION The protocol described allows for the generation of a 3D bioscaffold that may constitute a suitable model for ex vivo culture of ovarian cells and follicles, as well as a promising tool for the reconstruction of a bioengineered ovary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgia Pennarossa
- Laboratory of Biomedical Embryology, Department of Health, Animal Science and Food Safety and Center for Stem Cell Research, Università degli Studi di Milano, via Celoria 10, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Matteo Ghiringhelli
- Laboratory of Biomedical Embryology, Department of Health, Animal Science and Food Safety and Center for Stem Cell Research, Università degli Studi di Milano, via Celoria 10, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Fulvio Gandolfi
- Department of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences - Production, Landscape, Agroenergy and Center for Stem Cell Research, Università degli Studi di Milano, via Celoria 2, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Tiziana A L Brevini
- Laboratory of Biomedical Embryology, Department of Health, Animal Science and Food Safety and Center for Stem Cell Research, Università degli Studi di Milano, via Celoria 10, 20133, Milan, Italy.
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12
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The transcriptional regulator CBX2 and ovarian function: A whole genome and whole transcriptome approach. Sci Rep 2019; 9:17033. [PMID: 31745224 PMCID: PMC6864077 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-53370-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2019] [Accepted: 10/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The chromobox homolog 2 (CBX2) was found to be important for human testis development, but its role in the human ovary remains elusive. We conducted a genome-wide analysis based on DNA adenine methyltransferase identification (DamID) and RNA sequencing strategies to investigate CBX2 in the human granulosa cells. Functional analysis revealed that CBX2 was upstream of genes contributing to ovarian function like folliculogenesis and steroidogenesis (i.e. ESR1, NRG1, AKR1C1, PTGER2, BMP15, BMP2, FSHR and NTRK1/2). We identified CBX2 regulated genes associated with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) such as TGFβ, MAP3K15 and DKK1, as well as genes implicated in premature ovarian failure (POF) (i.e. POF1B, BMP15 and HOXA13) and the pituitary deficiency (i.e. LHX4 and KISS1). Our study provided an excellent opportunity to identify genes surrounding CBX2 in the ovary and might contribute to the understanding of ovarian physiopathology causing infertility in women.
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13
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Alshaikh AB, Padma AM, Dehlin M, Akouri R, Song MJ, Brännström M, Hellström M. Decellularization of the mouse ovary: comparison of different scaffold generation protocols for future ovarian bioengineering. J Ovarian Res 2019; 12:58. [PMID: 31228949 PMCID: PMC6588934 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-019-0531-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2019] [Accepted: 06/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In order to preserve fertility in young women with disseminated cancer, e.g. leukemia, an approach that has been suggested is to retransplant isolated small follicles within an ovarian matrix free from malignant cells and with no risk for contamination. The present study evaluates the first step to create a bioengineered ovarian construct that can act as growth-supporting tissue for isolated small follicles that are dependent on a stroma for normal follicular maturation. The present study used the intact mouse ovary to develop a mouse ovarian scaffold through various protocols of decellularization. Material and methods Potential Immunogenic DNA and intracellular components were removed from whole mouse ovaries by agitation in a 0.5% sodium dodecyl sulfate solution (Protocol 1; P1), or in a 2% sodium deoxycholate solution (P2) or by a combination of the two (P3). The remaining decelluralized ovarian extracellular matrix structure was then assessed based on the DNA- and protein content, and was further evaluated histologically by haematoxylin and eosin-, Verhoeff’s van gieson- (for elastin), Masson’s trichrome- (for collagens) and Alcian blue (for glycosaminoglycans) staining. We also evaluated the decellularization efficiency using the mild detergent Triton-X100 (1%). Results Sodium dodecyl sulfate efficiently removed DNA and intracellular components from the ovarian tissue but also significantly reduced the integrity of the remaining ovarian extracellular matrix. Sodium deoxycholate, a considerably milder detergent compared to sodium dodecyl sulfate, preserved the ovarian extracellular matrix better, evident by a more distinct staining for glycosaminoglycan, collagen and elastic fibres. Triton-X100 was found ineffective as a decellularization reagent for mouse ovaries in our settings. Conclusions The sodium dodecyl sulfate generated ovarian scaffolds contained minute amounts of DNA that may be an advantage to evade a detrimental immune response following engraftment. The sodium deoxycholate generated ovarian scaffolds had higher donor DNA content, yet, retained the extracellular composition better and may therefore have improved recellularization and other downstream bioengineering applications. These two novel types of mouse ovarian scaffolds serve as promising scaffold-candidates for future ovarian bioengineering experiments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Baker Alshaikh
- Laboratory for Transplantation and Regenerative Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Göteborg, Sweden.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Göteborg, Sweden
| | - Arvind Manikantan Padma
- Laboratory for Transplantation and Regenerative Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Göteborg, Sweden.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Göteborg, Sweden
| | - Matilda Dehlin
- Laboratory for Transplantation and Regenerative Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Göteborg, Sweden.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Göteborg, Sweden
| | - Randa Akouri
- Laboratory for Transplantation and Regenerative Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Göteborg, Sweden.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Göteborg, Sweden
| | - Min Jong Song
- Laboratory for Transplantation and Regenerative Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Göteborg, Sweden.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Göteborg, Sweden.,Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Daejeon St. Mary's Hospital, The Catholic University of Korea, Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Mats Brännström
- Laboratory for Transplantation and Regenerative Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Göteborg, Sweden.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Göteborg, Sweden.,Stockholm IVF-EUGIN, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Mats Hellström
- Laboratory for Transplantation and Regenerative Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Göteborg, Sweden. .,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Göteborg, Sweden. .,Kvinnokliniken, Blå stråket 6, SE-413 45, Göteborg, Sweden.
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14
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Zhang X, Jiang L, Tian Y, Xia Y, Yan L, Wu C, Zhang T, Zhu J. Establishment of in-vitro three dimensional rat follicle culture system and validation of the applicability as an in vitro female reproductive toxicity testing system. Toxicol In Vitro 2019; 58:161-169. [PMID: 30902691 DOI: 10.1016/j.tiv.2019.03.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2019] [Revised: 02/25/2019] [Accepted: 03/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaofang Zhang
- Department of Hygienic Toxicology and Center for Evaluation of Drug Safety, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Lijuan Jiang
- Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Yijun Tian
- Department of Hygienic Toxicology and Center for Evaluation of Drug Safety, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Yi Xia
- Changning District Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shanghai 200335, China
| | - Lang Yan
- Department of Hygienic Toxicology and Center for Evaluation of Drug Safety, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Changzhi Wu
- Jiangxi maternal and child health care hospital, Jiangxi 330006, China
| | - Tianbao Zhang
- Department of Hygienic Toxicology and Center for Evaluation of Drug Safety, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China.
| | - Jiangbo Zhu
- Department of Hygienic Toxicology and Center for Evaluation of Drug Safety, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China
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15
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Robot-assisted orthotopic and heterotopic ovarian tissue transplantation techniques: surgical advances since our first success in 2000. Fertil Steril 2019; 111:604-606. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2018.11.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2018] [Revised: 11/27/2018] [Accepted: 11/28/2018] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
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16
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Detti L, Fletcher NM, Saed GM, Sweatman TW, Uhlmann RA, Pappo A, Peregrin-Alvarez I. Xenotransplantation of pre-pubertal ovarian cortex and prevention of follicle depletion with anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH). J Assist Reprod Genet 2018; 35:1831-1841. [PMID: 30043336 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-018-1260-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2018] [Accepted: 07/03/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine whether recombinant AMH (rAMH) could prevent post-transplant follicular depletion by acting on the stemness markers Oct-4, Sox2, and NANOG. MATERIALS AND METHODS This was an experimental study where 12 ovariectomized nude mice were xenotransplanted with vitrified/warmed ovarian cortex obtained from a pre-pubertal girl and Alzet pumps delivering rAMH, or placebo (control), were inserted intra-abdominally. Previously vitrified/warmed ovarian cortex fragments were transplanted after 7 days and then harvested after 14 days from pump placement. We performed real-time RT-PCR analyses, ELISA for AMH, FSH, and estradiol, histologic measurement of ovarian follicles, and immunohistochemistry for Ki67 and TUNEL. The main outcome measures were serum levels and tissue expression of the parameters under investigation and follicle count. RESULTS Serum AMH, FSH, and estradiol reflected post-ovariectomy profiles and were mildly influenced by rAMH administration. Ovarian cortex expression of AMH, AMH-R2, VEGF, GDF9, Oct-4, and Sox2 was lower in rAMH mice than in controls, while NANOG was upregulated. There was a non-significant decrease in primordial follicles after vitrification-warming, and xenotransplantation further decreased this number. There were lower cell replication and depressed apoptosis in the rAMH group. CONCLUSIONS Administration of recombinant AMH in the peri-transplant period did not protect the initial follicular depletion but decreased apoptosis and cellular activation and regulated stem cell markers' tissue expression. These results aid our understanding of the inhibitory effects of AMH on follicular development and show the benefit of administering exogenous AMH at the time of pre-pubertal ovarian cortex transplant to protect the follicles from pre-activation and premature depletion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Detti
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA. .,Department of Surgery, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, Edinburg, TX, USA. .,Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Rout Center, 853 Jefferson Ave, Rm E102, Memphis, TN, 38163, USA.
| | - Nicole M Fletcher
- The C. S. Mott Center for Human Growth and Development, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Ghassan M Saed
- The C. S. Mott Center for Human Growth and Development, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Trevor W Sweatman
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Rebecca A Uhlmann
- The C. S. Mott Center for Human Growth and Development, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Alberto Pappo
- St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Irene Peregrin-Alvarez
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA
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17
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Fabbri R, Zamboni C, Vicenti R, Macciocca M, Paradisi R, Seracchioli R. Update on oogenesis in vitro. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018; 70:588-608. [PMID: 29999288 DOI: 10.23736/s0026-4784.18.04273-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Ovarian tissue is increasingly being collected from cancer patients and cryopreserved for fertility preservation. Alternately to the autologous transplantation, the development of culture systems that support oocyte development from the primordial follicle stage represent a valid strategy to restore fertility. The aim of this study is to review the most recent data regarding oogenesis in vitro and to provide an up-to-date on the contemporary knowledge of follicle growth and development in vitro. EVIDENCE ACQUISITION A comprehensive systematic MEDLINE search was performed since February 2018 for English-language reports by using the following terms: "ovary," "animal and human follicle," "in vitro growth and development," "ovarian tissue culture," "fertility preservation," "IVM," "oocyte." Previous published reviews and recent published original articles were preferred in order to meet our study scope. EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS Over time, many studies have been conducted with the aim to optimize the characteristics of ovarian tissue culture systems and to better support the three main phases: 1) activation of primordial follicles; 2) isolation and culture of growing preantral follicles; 3) removal from the follicle environment and maturation of oocyte cumulus complexes. While complete oocyte in vitro development has been achieved in mouse, with the production of live offspring, the goal of obtaining oocytes of sufficient quality to support embryo development has not been completely reached into higher mammals despite decades of effort. CONCLUSIONS Over the years, many improvements have been made on ovarian tissue cultures with the future purpose that patients will be provided with a greater number of developmentally competent oocytes for fertility preservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raffaella Fabbri
- Unit of Gynecology and Physiopathology of Human Reproduction, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, S. Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Chiara Zamboni
- Unit of Gynecology and Physiopathology of Human Reproduction, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, S. Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, Bologna, Italy -
| | - Rossella Vicenti
- Unit of Gynecology and Physiopathology of Human Reproduction, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, S. Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Maria Macciocca
- Unit of Gynecology and Physiopathology of Human Reproduction, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, S. Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | | | - Renato Seracchioli
- Unit of Gynecology and Physiopathology of Human Reproduction, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, S. Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, Bologna, Italy
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18
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Asaduzzman M, Cui X, Zhang H, Young F. Three Dimensional <i>In Vitro</i> Culture of Murine Secondary Follicles in a Defined Synthetic Matrix. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018. [DOI: 10.4236/jbnb.2018.93014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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19
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Kedem A, Aelion-Brauer A, Guo P, Wen D, Ding BS, Lis R, Cheng D, Sandler VM, Rafii S, Rosenwaks Z. Activated ovarian endothelial cells promote early follicular development and survival. J Ovarian Res 2017; 10:64. [PMID: 28927438 PMCID: PMC5605973 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-017-0354-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2017] [Accepted: 08/31/2017] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background New data suggests that endothelial cells (ECs) elaborate essential “angiocrine factors”. The aim of this study is to investigate the role of activated ovarian endothelial cells in early in-vitro follicular development. Methods Mouse ovarian ECs were isolated using magnetic cell sorting or by FACS and cultured in serum free media. After a constitutive activation of the Akt pathway was initiated, early follicles (50–150 um) were mechanically isolated from 8-day-old mice and co-cultured with these activated ovarian endothelial cells (AOEC) (n = 32), gel (n = 24) or within matrigel (n = 27) in serum free media for 14 days. Follicular growth, survival and function were assessed. Results After 6 passages, flow cytometry showed 93% of cells grown in serum-free culture were VE-cadherin positive, CD-31 positive and CD 45 negative, matching the known EC profile. Beginning on day 4 of culture, we observed significantly higher follicular and oocyte growth rates in follicles co-cultured with AOECs compared with follicles on gel or matrigel. After 14 days of culture, 73% of primary follicles and 83% of secondary follicles co-cultured with AOEC survived, whereas the majority of follicles cultured on gel or matrigel underwent atresia. Conclusions This is the first report of successful isolation and culture of ovarian ECs. We suggest that co-culture with activated ovarian ECs promotes early follicular development and survival. This model is a novel platform for the in vitro maturation of early follicles and for the future exploration of endothelial-follicular communication. Capsule In vitro development of early follicles necessitates a complex interplay of growth factors and signals required for development. Endothelial cells (ECs) may elaborate essential “angiocrine factors” involved in organ regeneration. We demonstrate that co-culture with ovarian ECs enables culture of primary and early secondary mouse ovarian follicles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alon Kedem
- The Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, 10021, USA. .,Ansary Stem Cell Center for Regenerative Medicine at Weill Medical College of Cornell University, New York, USA.
| | - Anate Aelion-Brauer
- The Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, 10021, USA.
| | - Peipei Guo
- Ansary Stem Cell Center for Regenerative Medicine at Weill Medical College of Cornell University, New York, USA
| | - Duancheng Wen
- Ansary Stem Cell Center for Regenerative Medicine at Weill Medical College of Cornell University, New York, USA
| | - Bi-Sen Ding
- Ansary Stem Cell Center for Regenerative Medicine at Weill Medical College of Cornell University, New York, USA
| | - Raphael Lis
- Ansary Stem Cell Center for Regenerative Medicine at Weill Medical College of Cornell University, New York, USA
| | - Du Cheng
- Ansary Stem Cell Center for Regenerative Medicine at Weill Medical College of Cornell University, New York, USA
| | - Vladislav M Sandler
- Ansary Stem Cell Center for Regenerative Medicine at Weill Medical College of Cornell University, New York, USA
| | - Shahin Rafii
- Ansary Stem Cell Center for Regenerative Medicine at Weill Medical College of Cornell University, New York, USA
| | - Zev Rosenwaks
- The Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, 10021, USA.,Ansary Stem Cell Center for Regenerative Medicine at Weill Medical College of Cornell University, New York, USA
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20
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Oktem O, Akin N, Bildik G, Yakin K, Alper E, Balaban B, Urman B. FSH Stimulation promotes progesterone synthesis and output from human granulosa cells without luteinization. Hum Reprod 2017; 32:643-652. [PMID: 28158500 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dex010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2016] [Accepted: 01/13/2017] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Can granulosa cells produce progesterone (P) in response to FSH stimulation? SUMMARY ANSWER FSH actively promotes P synthesis and output from granulosa cells without luteinization by up-regulating the expression and increasing enzymatic activity of 3β-hydroxysteriod dehydrogenoase (3β-HSD), which converts pregnenolone to P. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Serum P level may rise prematurely prior to ovulation trigger in stimulated IVF cycles and adversely affect implantation and clinical pregnancy rates by impairing endometrial receptivity. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION A translational research study. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Human ovarian cortical samples (n = 15) and non-luteinizing FSH-responsive human mitotic granulosa cell line (HGrC1) were stimulated with rec-FSH at 12.5, 25 and 50 mIU/ml concentrations for 24 and 48 h. FSH receptor expression was knocked-down and up-regulated in the granulosa cells using short hairpin RNA (shRNA) technology and activin-A administration, respectively. The expressions of the steroidogenic enzymes were analyzed at mRNA level by real-time quantitative RT-PCR, and protein level by western blot and immunoprecipitation assay. The enzymatic activity of 3β-HSD was measured using a spectrophotometric method. In vitro estradiol (E2) and P productions of the cells before and after FSH stimulation were measured by electro-chemiluminescence immunoassay method. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Stimulation of the HGrC1 cells with FSH resulted in a dose-dependent increase in the mRNA and protein level of 3β-HSD. Overall, when all time points and FSH doses were analyzed collectively, FSH significantly up-regulated the mRNA expression of its own receptor (3.73 ± 0.06-fold, P < 0.001), steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (stAR, 1.7 ± 0.03-fold, P < 0.01), side-chain cleavage enzyme (SCC, 1.75 ± 0.03-fold, P < 0.01), aromatase (4.49 ± 0.08-fold, P < 0.001), 3β-HSD (1.68 ± 0.02-fold, P < 0.01) and 17β-hydroxy steroid dehydrogenase (17β-HSD, 2.16 ± 0.02-fold, P < 0.01) in the granulosa cells. Expression of 17α-hydroxylase (17α-OH, 1.03 ± 0.01-fold P > 0.05) did not significantly change. Similar changes were observed in the protein expression analysis of these enzymes on western blotting after FSH stimulation. FSH significantly increased 3β-HSD, 17β-HSD and aromatase in a dose-dependent manner but did not affect 17α-OH. Protein expression of P was increased along with 3β-HSD after FSH stimulation, which was further evidenced by immunoprecipitation assay. Enzymatic activity of 3β-HSD was significantly enhanced by FSH administration in the HGrC1 cells in a dose-dependent manner. In line with these findings P output (1.05 ± 0.3 vs. 0.2 ± 0.1 ng/ml, respectively, P < 0.001) from the samples stimulated with FSH were significantly increased along with E2 (1918 ± 203 vs. 932 ± 102 pg/ml, respectively, P < 0.001) compared to unstimulated controls. FSH-induced increase in 3β-HSD expression was amplified and reversed in the HGrC1 cells when FSH receptor expression was up-regulated by activin-A and down-regulated with shRNA, respectively. LIMITATIONS AND REASONS FOR CAUTION As only the effect of FSH was studied we cannot extrapolate our findings to the potential effects of HMG and recombinant LH. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS This data provides a molecular explanation for the largely unexplained phenomenon of P rise during the follicular phase of gonadotropin stimulated IVF cycles. Our findings may progress the research to uncover potential mechanisms for preventing premature P rise that appears to be associated with inferior outcomes in women undergoing IVF. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) Funded by the School of Medicine and the Graduate School of Health Sciences of Koc University. All authors declare no conflict of interest. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER None.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ozgur Oktem
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Koc University School of Medicine, Davutpasa Cad. No:4, 34010 Topkapi Istanbul, Turkey.,American Hospital Women's Health Center, Assisted Reproduction Unit, Guzelbahce Sok, Nisantasi, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Nazli Akin
- The Graduate School of Health Sciences, Koc University, Rumelifeneri yolu, Sariyer, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Gamze Bildik
- The Graduate School of Health Sciences, Koc University, Rumelifeneri yolu, Sariyer, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Kayhan Yakin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Koc University School of Medicine, Davutpasa Cad. No:4, 34010 Topkapi Istanbul, Turkey.,American Hospital Women's Health Center, Assisted Reproduction Unit, Guzelbahce Sok, Nisantasi, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ebru Alper
- American Hospital Women's Health Center, Assisted Reproduction Unit, Guzelbahce Sok, Nisantasi, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Basak Balaban
- American Hospital Women's Health Center, Assisted Reproduction Unit, Guzelbahce Sok, Nisantasi, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Bulent Urman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Koc University School of Medicine, Davutpasa Cad. No:4, 34010 Topkapi Istanbul, Turkey.,American Hospital Women's Health Center, Assisted Reproduction Unit, Guzelbahce Sok, Nisantasi, Istanbul, Turkey
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21
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Guzel Y, Oktem O. Understanding follicle growth in vitro: Are we getting closer to obtaining mature oocytes from in vitro-grown follicles in human? Mol Reprod Dev 2017; 84:544-559. [PMID: 28452156 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.22822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2017] [Revised: 03/06/2017] [Accepted: 04/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Obtaining and fertilizing mature oocytes from immature follicles that were grown outside the body has conceptually attracted scientists for centuries, with initial attempts first documented in the 19th century. Significant progress has been made since then, due in part to a better understanding of folliculogenesis and improved techniques of in vitro follicle growth. Indeed, in vitro growth is now considered a reasonable approach to preserve or restore fertility when immature follicles and their oocytes need to be grown and matured outside the body. Certain patients would benefit from in vitro follicle growth, particularly those who carry a risk of cancer re-seeding after grafting of frozen-thawed ovarian tissue or who are at the risk of premature ovarian failure due to several intrinsic ovarian defects and genetic mutations that lead to accelerated follicle atresia and early exhaustion of the ovarian reserve. This review provides an update on the current status of in vitro growth of preantral human follicles, from initial efforts to the most recent achievements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yilmaz Guzel
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Istanbul Aydin University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ozgur Oktem
- Division Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Koc University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey.,Women's Health Center, Assisted Reproduction Unit, American Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
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22
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Hu S, Rao M, Lei H, Wu Y, Wang Y, Ke D, Xia W, Zhu C. Expression patterns of p38αMAPK during follicular development in the ovaries of neonatal rats. Acta Histochem 2017; 119:538-542. [PMID: 28606727 DOI: 10.1016/j.acthis.2017.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2017] [Revised: 05/17/2017] [Accepted: 05/17/2017] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
The p38αMAPK signaling pathway plays a critical role in female reproduction, but an understanding of its expression in rats remains elusive. This study was carried out to investigate the temporal and spatial expression of p38αMAPK and p-p38αMAPK. Ovarian tissue samples were collected from 2-, 4-, 8-, 12-, 16-, 20- and 30-day-old female rats. Western blotting was used to examine the relative expression of p38αMAPK and p-p38αMAPK in ovarian tissue, and subcellular localization was examined using immunohistochemistry of the rat ovaries at different ages of postpartum. The immunohistochemical results showed that p38αMAPK and p-p38αMAPK were widely expressed in the rat ovaries, mainly localized in the follicle cells and granulosa cells. The expression of p38αMAPK was relatively stable for the different stages of oocytes, whereas the expression of p-p38αMAPK gradually increased. At different stages of granulosa cells, the expression of p38αMAPK was also relatively stable, and the p-p38αMAPK expression showed an upward trend during follicular development. Western blotting revealed that the expression of p38αMAPK in the ovaries was relatively stable, where as p-p38αMAPK expression initially exhibited an increasing trend and subsequently decreased, with a maximum at day 20. The expression patterns of p38αMAPK and p-p38αMAPK in the rat ovaries indicate their possible involvement in folliculogenesis. Taken together, the stage- and cell-specific expression of p-p38αMAPK in rat ovaries indicated that p-p38αMAPK might play a vital role during rat follicular development.
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23
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Kim YY, Tamadon A, Ku SY. Potential Use of Antiapoptotic Proteins and Noncoding RNAs for EfficientIn VitroFollicular Maturation and Ovarian Bioengineering. TISSUE ENGINEERING PART B-REVIEWS 2017; 23:142-158. [DOI: 10.1089/ten.teb.2016.0156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Yoon Young Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Amin Tamadon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Seung-Yup Ku
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, South Korea
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24
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Taylan E, Oktay K. Application of Decellularized Tissue Scaffolds in Ovarian Tissue Transplantation. Methods Mol Biol 2017; 1577:177-181. [PMID: 28510115 DOI: 10.1007/7651_2017_35] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
In tissue engineering, decellularized scaffolds have been proved to have remarkable capacity to promote regeneration in various organs such as kidney, heart, lung, and liver. Marrying the field of cryobiology and reproductive medicine resulted in considerable progress and breakthroughs, which led to the emergence of ovarian tissue cryopreservation and transplantation as a promising option for fertility preservation. Here we describe an innovative application of decellularized tissue scaffolds as a regenerative platform for reconstruction of ovarian grafts for auto-transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enes Taylan
- Innovation Institute for Fertility Preservation and In Vitro Fertilization, New York, NY, USA
| | - Kutluk Oktay
- Innovation Institute for Fertility Preservation and In Vitro Fertilization, New York, NY, USA. .,Laboratory of Molecular Reproduction and Fertility Preservation, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, USA.
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25
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Abdi S, Salehnia M, Hosseinkhani S. Quality of Oocytes Derived from Vitrified Ovarian Follicles Cultured in Two- and Three-Dimensional Culture System in the Presence and Absence of Kit Ligand. Biopreserv Biobank 2016; 14:279-88. [DOI: 10.1089/bio.2015.0069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Shabnam Abdi
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mojdeh Salehnia
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saman Hosseinkhani
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
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26
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Female fertility preservation strategies: cryopreservation and ovarian tissue in vitro culture, current state of the art and future perspectives. ZYGOTE 2016; 24:635-53. [PMID: 27141985 DOI: 10.1017/s096719941600006x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
In the present review, the main strategies of female fertility preservation are covered. Procedures of fertility preservation are necessary for women who suffer from diseases whose treatment requires the use of aggressive therapies, such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy. These kinds of therapy negatively influence the health of gametes and their progenitors. The most commonly used method of female fertility preservation is ovarian tissue cryopreservation, followed by the retransplantation of thawed tissue. Another approach to female fertility preservation that has been actively developed lately is the ovarian tissue in vitro culture. The principal methods, advantages and drawbacks of these two strategies are discussed in this article.
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27
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Higuchi CM, Maeda Y, Horiuchi T, Yamazaki Y. A Simplified Method for Three-Dimensional (3-D) Ovarian Tissue Culture Yielding Oocytes Competent to Produce Full-Term Offspring in Mice. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0143114. [PMID: 26571501 PMCID: PMC4646357 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0143114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2015] [Accepted: 11/01/2015] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
In vitro growth of follicles is a promising technology to generate large quantities of competent oocytes from immature follicles and could expand the potential of assisted reproductive technologies (ART). Isolated follicle culture is currently the primary method used to develop and mature follicles in vitro. However, this procedure typically requires complicated, time-consuming procedures, as well as destruction of the normal ovarian microenvironment. Here we describe a simplified 3-D ovarian culture system that can be used to mature multilayered secondary follicles into antral follicles, generating developmentally competent oocytes in vitro. Ovaries recovered from mice at 14 days of age were cut into 8 pieces and placed onto a thick Matrigel drop (3-D culture) for 10 days of culture. As a control, ovarian pieces were cultured on a membrane filter without any Matrigel drop (Membrane culture). We also evaluated the effect of activin A treatment on follicle growth within the ovarian pieces with or without Matrigel support. Thus we tested four different culture conditions: C (Membrane/activin-), A (Membrane/activin+), M (Matrigel/activin-), and M+A (Matrigel/activin+). We found that the cultured follicles and oocytes steadily increased in size regardless of the culture condition used. However, antral cavity formation occurred only in the follicles grown in the 3-D culture system (M, M+A). Following ovarian tissue culture, full-grown GV oocytes were isolated from the larger follicles to evaluate their developmental competence by subjecting them to in vitro maturation (IVM) and in vitro fertilization (IVF). Maturation and fertilization rates were higher using oocytes grown in 3-D culture (M, M+A) than with those grown in membrane culture (C, A). In particular, activin A treatment further improved 3-D culture (M+A) success. Following IVF, two-cell embryos were transferred to recipients to generate full-term offspring. In summary, this simple and easy 3-D ovarian culture system using a Matrigel drop and activin A supplementation (M+A) provides optimal and convenient conditions to support growth of developmentally competent oocytes in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolyn M. Higuchi
- Institute of Biogenesis Research, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, Hawaii, United States of America
| | - Yuuki Maeda
- Institute of Biogenesis Research, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, Hawaii, United States of America
| | - Toshitaka Horiuchi
- Graduate School of Comprehensive Scientific Research, Prefectural University of Hiroshima, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Yukiko Yamazaki
- Institute of Biogenesis Research, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, Hawaii, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Cooperative Effects of FOXL2 with the Members of TGF-β Superfamily on FSH Receptor mRNA Expression and Granulosa Cell Proliferation from Hen Prehierarchical Follicles. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0141062. [PMID: 26496659 PMCID: PMC4619702 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0141062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2015] [Accepted: 10/01/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Forkhead box L2 (FOXL2) is a member of the forkhead nuclear factor 3 gene family and plays an essential role in ovarian growth and maturation in mammals. However, its potential effects and regulative mechanism in development of chicken ovarian prehierarchical follicles remain unexplored. In this study, the cooperative effects of FOXL2 with activin A, growth differentiation factor-9 (GDF9) and follistatin, three members of the transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) superfamily that were previously suggested to exert a critical role in follicle development was investigated. We demonstrated herein, using in-situ hybridization, Northern blot and immunohistochemical analyses of oocytes and granulosa cells in various sizes of prehierarchical follicles that both FOXL2 transcripts and FOXL2 proteins are predominantly expressed in a highly similar expression pattern to that of GDF9 gene. In addition, the FOXL2 transcript was found at lower levels in theca cells in the absence of GDF9. Furthermore, culture of granulosa cells (GCs) from the prehierarchical follicles (6–8 mm) in conditioned medium revealed that in the pcDNA3.0-FOXL2 transfected GCs, there was a more dramatic increase in FSHR mRNA expression after treatment with activin A (10 ng/ml) or GDF9 (100 ng/ml) for 24 h which caused a stimulatory effect on the GC proliferation. In contrast, a significant decrease of FSHR mRNA was detected after treatment with follistatin (50 ng/ml) and resulted in an inhibitory effect on the cell proliferation. The results of this suggested that FOXL2 plays a bidirectional modulating role involved in the intracellular FSHR transcription and GC proliferation via an autocrine regulatory mechanism in a positive or negative manner through cooperation with activin A and/or GDF9, and follistatin in the hen follicle development. This cooperative action may be mediated by the examined Smad signals and simultaneously implicated in modulation of the StAR, CCND2, and CYP11A1 expression.
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Xia X, Wang T, Yin T, Yan L, Yan J, Lu C, Zhao L, Li M, Zhang Y, Jin H, Zhu X, Liu P, Li R, Qiao J. Mesenchymal Stem Cells Facilitate In Vitro Development of Human Preantral Follicle. Reprod Sci 2015; 22:1367-76. [PMID: 25854744 DOI: 10.1177/1933719115578922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Biological folliculogenesis is a lengthy and complicated process, and follicle growth microenvironment is poorly understood. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been shown to establish a supportive microenvironment for wound repair, autoimmune diseases amelioration, and tumor development. Therefore, this study is aimed to investigate whether MSCs could help to reconstruct a microenvironment to facilitate the in vitro follicle development. Here we show human MSCs significantly promote the survival rates, increase the growth velocity, and improve the viability of preantral follicles in a dose-dependent manner. Further analyses reveal that growth differentiation factor 9 and bone morphogenetic protein 15 in oocytes and inhibin βA and transforming growth factor β1 in granulose cells within the follicles cocultured with MSCs express notably higher than those in the follicles cultured without MSCs. In summary, our findings demonstrate a previously unrecognized function of MSCs in promoting preantral follicle development and provide a useful strategy to optimize fertility preservation and restoration by facilitating in vitro follicle growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi Xia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, HaiDian District, Beijing, China Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, FuTian District, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Tianren Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, HaiDian District, Beijing, China Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproduction, Beijing, China Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Tailang Yin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, HaiDian District, Beijing, China Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproduction, Beijing, China Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
| | - Liying Yan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, HaiDian District, Beijing, China Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproduction, Beijing, China Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
| | - Jie Yan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, HaiDian District, Beijing, China Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproduction, Beijing, China Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
| | - Cuilin Lu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, HaiDian District, Beijing, China Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproduction, Beijing, China Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
| | - Liang Zhao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, HaiDian District, Beijing, China Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproduction, Beijing, China
| | - Min Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, HaiDian District, Beijing, China Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproduction, Beijing, China Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, HaiDian District, Beijing, China Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproduction, Beijing, China Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
| | - Hongyan Jin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, HaiDian District, Beijing, China Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproduction, Beijing, China Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaohui Zhu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, HaiDian District, Beijing, China Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproduction, Beijing, China Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
| | - Ping Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, HaiDian District, Beijing, China Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproduction, Beijing, China Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
| | - Rong Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, HaiDian District, Beijing, China Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproduction, Beijing, China Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
| | - Jie Qiao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, HaiDian District, Beijing, China Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproduction, Beijing, China Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
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Araújo VR, Gastal MO, Figueiredo JR, Gastal EL. In vitro culture of bovine preantral follicles: a review. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2014; 12:78. [PMID: 25117631 PMCID: PMC4148547 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-12-78] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2014] [Accepted: 08/08/2014] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Preantral follicles are the majority of the ovarian follicle population and their use as a source of homogeneous oocytes for bovine reproductive biotechnologies could result in a substantial advance in this field. However, while in other species embryos and offspring have been produced, in bovine species the results have been limited to the follicular activation of small (primordial) preantral follicles and formation of early antral follicles from large (secondary) preantral follicles after in vitro culture. Therefore, this review will highlight the basic aspects of bovine folliculogenesis by focusing on preantral follicles, the methods of harvesting preantral follicles, the main results from in vitro follicular culture during the last 20 years, and the potential candidate substances (basic supplements, growth factors, and hormones) for improving the efficiency of in vitro follicle growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valdevane R Araújo
- Department of Animal Science, Food and Nutrition, Southern Illinois University, 1205 Lincoln Drive, MC 4417, Carbondale, IL 62901 USA
- Laboratory of Manipulation of Oocytes and Preantral Follicles (LAMOFOPA), Veterinary Faculty, State University of Ceará, Av. Paranjana 1700, Campus do Itaperi, Fortaleza, CE 60740-903 Brazil
| | - Melba O Gastal
- Department of Animal Science, Food and Nutrition, Southern Illinois University, 1205 Lincoln Drive, MC 4417, Carbondale, IL 62901 USA
| | - José R Figueiredo
- Laboratory of Manipulation of Oocytes and Preantral Follicles (LAMOFOPA), Veterinary Faculty, State University of Ceará, Av. Paranjana 1700, Campus do Itaperi, Fortaleza, CE 60740-903 Brazil
| | - Eduardo L Gastal
- Department of Animal Science, Food and Nutrition, Southern Illinois University, 1205 Lincoln Drive, MC 4417, Carbondale, IL 62901 USA
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31
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Blumenfeld Z. Comment on: sexual and fertility adverse effects associated with chemotherapy treatment in women. Expert Opin Drug Saf 2014; 13:1283-5. [DOI: 10.1517/14740338.2014.949505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
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Brito IR, Lima IMT, Xu M, Shea LD, Woodruff TK, Figueiredo JR. Three-dimensional systems for in vitro follicular culture: overview of alginate-based matrices. Reprod Fertil Dev 2014; 26:915-30. [PMID: 23866836 PMCID: PMC11287383 DOI: 10.1071/rd12401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2012] [Accepted: 06/12/2013] [Indexed: 08/01/2024] Open
Abstract
The in vitro culture of ovarian follicles has provided critical insight into the biology of the follicle and its enclosed oocyte and the physical interaction and communication between the theca and granulosa cells and the oocyte that is necessary to produce meiotically competent oocytes. Various two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) culture systems have been developed to evaluate the effect of growth factors, hormones, extracellular matrix components and culture conditions on follicle development and oocyte growth and maturation. Among these culture systems, 3D systems make it possible to maintain follicle structure and support communication between the various cell compartments within the follicle. In this review article, we will discuss the three main approaches to ovarian follicle culture: 2D attachment systems, 3D floating systems and 3D encapsulated systems. We will specifically emphasise the development of and advances in alginate-based encapsulated systems for in vitro follicle culture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivina R. Brito
- Faculty of Veterinary, Laboratory of Manipulation of Oocyte and Preantral Follicles (LAMOFOPA), PPGCV, State University of Ceará, Fortaleza, CE 60740-930, Brazil
| | | | - Min Xu
- Division of Reproductive Biology and Clinical Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago IL, 60611, USA
| | - Lonnie D. Shea
- Division of Reproductive Biology and Clinical Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago IL, 60611, USA
| | - Teresa K. Woodruff
- Division of Reproductive Biology and Clinical Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago IL, 60611, USA
| | - José R. Figueiredo
- Faculty of Veterinary, Laboratory of Manipulation of Oocyte and Preantral Follicles (LAMOFOPA), PPGCV, State University of Ceará, Fortaleza, CE 60740-930, Brazil
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Guzel Y, Nur Şahin G, Sekeroglu M, Deniz A. Recombinant activin A enhances the growth and survival of isolated preantral follicles cultured three-dimensionally in extracellular basement matrix protein (matrigel) under serum-free conditions. Gynecol Endocrinol 2014; 30:388-91. [PMID: 24665930 DOI: 10.3109/09513590.2014.888411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Development of in vitro technologies that will allow the culture of early stage follicles before antral stage is an essential part of research in reproductive biology in order to understand the ovarian folliculogenesis better. Current evidence suggests that oocyte and somatic cells-derived growth factors interacting with each other and extracellular matrix proteins at paracrine level are involved in this early, gonadotrophin-independent phase of follicle growth. Basement membrane matrix protein (Matrigel™) is a soluble gel rich in extracellular matrix proteins and growth factors. Activin A promotes preantral follicle growth in vivo by inducing the proliferation of granulosa cells and by upregulating the expression of FSH receptor and aromatase enzyme. We hypothesized that activin A and matrigel may provide a better in vitro environment for early stage preantral follicles. Preantral follicles isolated from 14-21 day old BALB/c mice were cultured in matrigel ± activin A for four days. The growth (119.4% versus 45.4%, p < 0.05; respectively) and survival rates (76.3% versus 43.7%, p < 0.05; respectively) of the follicles treated with activin A were significantly higher compared to those without activin A. These results suggest that Activin A and matrigel provide a better in vitro milieu for the growth of isolated ovarian follicles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yilmaz Guzel
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Okmeydani Training and Research Hospital , Istanbul , Turkey and
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Gao JM, Yan J, Li R, Li M, Yan LY, Wang TR, Zhao HC, Zhao Y, Yu Y, Qiao J. Improvement in the quality of heterotopic allotransplanted mouse ovarian tissues with basic fibroblast growth factor and fibrin hydrogel. Hum Reprod 2013; 28:2784-93. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/det296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
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Moreira F, Corcini C, Mondadori R, Gevehr-Fernandes C, Mendes F, Araújo E, Lucia T. Leptin and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) in oocytes of sows and gilts. Anim Reprod Sci 2013; 139:89-94. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2013.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2012] [Revised: 03/15/2013] [Accepted: 03/21/2013] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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Cheon YP. Regulation and 3 dimensional culture of tertiary follicle growth. Clin Exp Reprod Med 2012; 39:95-106. [PMID: 23106040 PMCID: PMC3479238 DOI: 10.5653/cerm.2012.39.3.95] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2012] [Revised: 09/22/2012] [Accepted: 09/28/2012] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
It has been revealed that multiple cohorts of tertiary follicles develop during some animal estrous cycle and the human menstrual cycle. To reach developmental competence, oocytes need the support of somatic cells. During embryogenesis, the primordial germ cells appear, travel to the gonadal rudiments, and form follicles. The female germ cells develop within the somatic cells of the ovary, granulosa cells, and theca cells. How the oocyte and follicle cells support each other has been seriously studied. The latest technologies in genes and proteins and genetic engineering have allowed us to collect a great deal of information about folliculogenesis. For example, a few web pages (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov; http://mrg.genetics.washington.edu) provide access to databases of genomes, sequences of transcriptomes, and various tools for analyzing and discovering genes important in ovarian development. Formation of the antrum (tertiary follicle) is the final phase of folliculogenesis and the transition from intraovarian to extraovian regulation. This final step coordinates with the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis. On the other hand, currently, follicle physiology is under intense investigation, as little is known about how to overcome women's ovarian problems or how to develop competent oocytes from in vitro follicle culture or transplantation. In this review, some of the known roles of hormones and some of the genes involved in tertiary follicle growth and the general characteristics of tertiary follicles are summarized. In addition, in vitro culture of tertiary follicles is also discussed as a study model and an assisted reproductive technology model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong-Pil Cheon
- Division of Developmental Biology and Physiology, School of Biosciences and Chemistry, Sungshin Women's University, Seoul, Korea
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Detti L, Martin DC, Williams LJ. Applicability of adult techniques for ovarian preservation to childhood cancer patients. J Assist Reprod Genet 2012; 29:985-95. [PMID: 22821588 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-012-9821-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2012] [Accepted: 06/12/2012] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To appraise the feasibility of current adult medical and surgical techniques for ovarian preservation in pre-pubertal and adolescent girls with cancer. METHODS Literature search using PubMed and SCOPUS up to February 2012. In addition, the reference lists of selected studies and all identified systematic and narrative reviews were scanned for relevant references. Inclusion criteria were ovarian preservation and cancer. Exclusion criteria were non-English publications, letters, personal communications, and ovarian preservation for conditions other than cancer. RESULTS Data from the selected publications was interpreted and discussed in the relevant sections. Cryopreservation of ovarian tissue followed by autologous transplant represents the only surgical option available for pre-pubertal girls and adolescents who cannot delay the start of chemotherapy. Few studies report on pre-pubertal and adolescent girls undergoing ovarian preservation surgeries with good harvesting, and no follow-up has been conveyed, to date. Outcomes of ovarian function after ovarian suppression with GnRH-analogs in adults have been controversial and no reports are available for pre-pubertal girls. CONCLUSIONS Autologous transplantation of cryopreserved ovarian cortex probably represents the best option for preservation of fertility and hormonal function in childhood cancer females; however, future research needs to address the safety of this technique, especially in patients with blood-borne cancers. Ovarian suppression with GnRH-analogs at the time of chemotherapy treatment has not proven to be superior to non-suppression for fertility preservation purposes in adults. Not enough evidence is presently available in childhood cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Detti
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Rout Center, 853 Jefferson Avenue, Memphis, TN 38163, USA.
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Desai N, Abdelhafez F, Calabro A, Falcone T. Three dimensional culture of fresh and vitrified mouse pre-antral follicles in a hyaluronan-based hydrogel: a preliminary investigation of a novel biomaterial for in vitro follicle maturation. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2012; 10:29. [PMID: 22513305 PMCID: PMC3474165 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-10-29] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2011] [Accepted: 04/18/2012] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Folliculogenesis within the ovary requires interaction between somatic cell components and the oocyte. Maintenance of 3-dimensional (3-D) architecture and granulosa-oocyte interaction may be critical for successful in vitro maturation of follicles. Testing of novel biomaterials for the 3-D culture of follicles may ultimately lead to a culture model that can support the longer in vitro culture intervals needed for in vitro maturation of human oocytes from ovarian tissue biopsies. METHODS A novel tyramine-based hyaluronan (HA) hydrogel was tested for its biocompatibility with ovarian follicles. The HA was prepared at concentrations from 2 to 5 mg/ml. HA hydrogel was also formulated and tested with matrix proteins (ECM). Enzymatically isolated pre-antral follicles from the ovaries of 10-12 day SJL pups were divided amongst control (CT) and HA treatments. The growth of both fresh and vitrified follicles was assessed after encapsulation in the hydrogel. The basal culture medium was MEM alpha supplemented with FSH, LH, ITS and 5% FBS. Maturation was triggered by addition of hCG and EGF after in vitro culture (IVC). Outcome parameters monitored were follicle morphology, survival after IVC, antrum formation, GVBD and MII formation. Differences between treatments were analyzed. RESULTS HA and ECM-HA encapsulated follicles looked healthy and maintained their 3-D architecture during IVC. In control cultures, the follicles flattened and granulosa:oocyte connections appeared fragile. Estradiol secretion per follicle was significantly higher by Day 12 in ECM-HA compared to HA or CT (4119, 703 and 1080 pg/ml, respectively). HA and ECM-HA cultured follicles had similar survival rates (62% and 54%, respectively), percent GV breakdown (96-97%), MII formation (47-48%) and oocyte diameters at the end of IVC. Control cultures differed significantly in percent GVBD (85%) and MII formation (67%) . Vitrified-warmed follicles encapsulated in HA had an oocyte maturation rate to MII of 54% as compared to 57% in non-embedded follicles. CONCLUSIONS Initial testing of this new and unique HA-based hydrogel was quite promising. The ease of follicle encapsulation in HA, its optical transparency and ability to be molded combined with its support of follicle growth, estradiol secretion and resumption of meiosis make this HA-hydrogel particularly attractive as model for 3-D ovarian follicle culture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina Desai
- Cleveland Clinic Fertility Center, Department of OB/GYN and Women’s Health Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Beachwood, OH, USA
| | - Faten Abdelhafez
- Cleveland Clinic Fertility Center, Department of OB/GYN and Women’s Health Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Beachwood, OH, USA
| | - Anthony Calabro
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Tommaso Falcone
- Cleveland Clinic Fertility Center, Department of OB/GYN and Women’s Health Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Beachwood, OH, USA
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Soleimani R, Heytens E, Oktay K. Enhancement of neoangiogenesis and follicle survival by sphingosine-1-phosphate in human ovarian tissue xenotransplants. PLoS One 2011; 6:e19475. [PMID: 21559342 PMCID: PMC3084884 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0019475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 142] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2011] [Accepted: 04/04/2011] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Ovarian transplantation is one of the key approaches to restoring fertility in women who became menopausal as a result of cancer treatments. A major limitation of human ovarian transplants is massive follicular loss during revascularization. Here we investigated whether sphingosine-1-phosphate or its receptor agonists could enhance neoangiogenesis and follicle survival in ovarian transplants in a xenograft model. Human ovarian tissue xenografts in severe-combined-immunodeficient mice were treated with sphingosine-1-phosphate, its analogs, or vehicle for 1–10 days. We found that sphingosine-1-phosphate treatment increased vascular density in ovarian transplants significantly whereas FTY720 and SEW2871 had the opposite effect. In addition, sphingosine-1-phosphate accelerated the angiogenic process compared to vehicle-treated controls. Furthermore, sphingosine-1-phosphate treatment was associated with a significant proliferation of ovarian stromal cell as well as reduced necrosis and tissue hypoxia compared to the vehicle-treated controls. This resulted in a significantly lower percentage of apoptotic follicles in sphingosine-1-phosphate-treated transplants. We conclude that while sphingosine-1-phosphate promotes neoangiogenesis in ovarian transplants and reduces ischemic reperfusion injury, sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor agonists appear to functionally antagonize this process. Sphingosine-1-phosphate holds great promise to clinically enhance the survival and longevity of human autologous ovarian transplants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reza Soleimani
- Laboratory of Molecular Reproduction, Institute for Fertility Preservation, Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Cell Biology and Anatomy, New York Medical College, Valhalla, New York, United States of America
| | - Elke Heytens
- Laboratory of Molecular Reproduction, Institute for Fertility Preservation, Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Cell Biology and Anatomy, New York Medical College, Valhalla, New York, United States of America
| | - Kutluk Oktay
- Laboratory of Molecular Reproduction, Institute for Fertility Preservation, Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Cell Biology and Anatomy, New York Medical College, Valhalla, New York, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Songsasen N, Woodruff TK, Wildt DE. In vitro growth and steroidogenesis of dog follicles are influenced by the physical and hormonal microenvironment. Reproduction 2011; 142:113-22. [PMID: 21502334 DOI: 10.1530/rep-10-0442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
The present study examined the influences of the physical and hormonal microenvironment on in vitro growth and steroidogenesis of dog follicles. Follicles were enzymatically isolated and individually encapsulated in 0.5% (w/v; n=17) or 1.5% (n=10) alginate and cultured with 0.5 IU/ml equine chorionic gonadotropin for 192 h. In a separate experiment, follicles were encapsulated in 0.5% alginate and cultured with 0 (n=22), 1 (n=23), 10 (n=20) or 100 (n=21) μg/ml FSH for 240 h. Follicle diameter and steroid production were assessed every 48 h in both studies. Follicles encapsulated in the 0.5% alginate grew faster (P<0.05) than those cultured in the 1.5% concentration. Oestradiol (E(2)) and progesterone (P(4)) increased consistently (P<0.05) over time, and follicles in the 1.5% alginate produced more (P<0.05) P(4) than those in the 0.5% solution. Follicles cultured in the highest FSH concentration (100 μg/ml) increased 100% in size after 240 h compared with 50 to 70% in lower dosages. E(2) concentration remained unchanged over time (P>0.05) across FSH dosages. However, P(4) increased (P<0.05) as culture progressed and with increasing FSH concentration. Results demonstrate that dog follicles cultured in alginate retain structural integrity, grow in size and are hormonally active. Lower alginate and increasing FSH concentrations promote in vitro follicle growth. However, the absence of an E(2) rise in follicles cultured in FSH alone suggests the need for LH supplementation to support theca cell differentiation and granulosa cell function.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Songsasen
- Department of Reproductive Sciences, Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, Front Royal, Virginia 22630, USA.
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Nottola SA, Cecconi S, Bianchi S, Motta C, Rossi G, Continenza MA, Macchiarelli G. Ultrastructure of isolated mouse ovarian follicles cultured in vitro. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2011; 9:3. [PMID: 21232101 PMCID: PMC3033320 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-9-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2010] [Accepted: 01/13/2011] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In vitro maturation of ovarian follicles, in combination with cryopreservation, might be a valuable method for preserving and/or restoring fertility in mammals with impaired reproductive function. Several culture systems capable of sustaining mammalian follicle growth in vitro have been developed and many studies exist on factors influencing the development of in vitro grown oocytes. However, a very few reports concern the ultrastructural morphology of in vitro grown follicles. METHODS The present study was designed to evaluate, by transmission and scanning electron microscopy, the ultrastructural features of isolated mouse preantral follicles cultured in vitro for 6 days in a standard medium containing fetal calf serum (FCS). The culture was supplemented or not with FSH. RESULTS The follicles cultured in FCS alone, without FSH supplementation (FCS follicles), did not form the antral cavity. They displayed low differentiation (juxta-nuclear aggregates of organelles in the ooplasm, a variable amount of microvilli on the oolemma, numerous granulosa cell-oolemma contacts, signs of degeneration in granulosa cell compartment). Eighty (80)% of FSH-treated follicles formed the antral cavity (FSH antral follicles). These follicles showed various ultrastructural markers of maturity (spreading of organelles in ooplasm, abundant microvilli on the oolemma, scarce granulosa cell-oolemma contacts, granulosa cell proliferation). Areas of detachment of the innermost granulosa cell layer from the oocyte were also found, along with a diffuse granulosa cell loosening compatible with the antral formation. Theca cells showed an immature morphology for the stage reached. Twenty (20)% of FSH-treated follicles did not develop the antral cavity (FSH non-antral follicles) and displayed morphological differentiation features intermediate between those shown by FCS and FSH antral follicles (spreading of organelles in the ooplasm, variable amount of microvilli, scattered granulosa cell-oolemma contacts, signs of degeneration in granulosa cell compartment). CONCLUSIONS It is concluded that FSH supports the in vitro growth of follicles, but the presence of a diffuse structural granulosa cell-oocyte uncoupling and the absence of theca development unveil the incomplete efficiency of the system. The present study contributes to explain, from a morphological point of view, the effects of culture conditions on the development of mouse in vitro grown follicles and to highlight the necessity of maintaining efficient intercellular communications to obtain large numbers of fully-grown mature germ cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefania A Nottola
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic Medicine and Orthopaedics, La Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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Oktem O, Buyuk E, Oktay K. Preantral follicle growth is regulated by c-Jun-N-terminal kinase (JNK) pathway. Reprod Sci 2010; 18:269-76. [PMID: 20959642 DOI: 10.1177/1933719110385709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) pathway has been shown to be essential for cell cycle progression and mitosis. We previously showed that this pathway is activated in mitotic granulosa cells of follicles from transitional to antral stages. In this study, we, therefore, aimed to investigate whether this signaling pathway has any effect on in-vitro growth of murine preantral follicles and granulosa cell cycle control. Two structurally different pharmacologic JNK inhibitors, SP600125 and AS601245, were used in the experiments. First their inhibitory concentrations were determined in granulosa cells by Western blot analysis. Then preantral follicles isolated from immature and adult C57BL/6 mice were cultured in matrigel and standard culture plates for 6 days with these inhibitors. Spontaneously immortalized rat granulosa cells (SIGCs) were first synchronized at G1/S and G2/M stages of cell cycle and then treated with JNK inhibitors. Cell cycle progression was analyzed with Bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) assay and flow cytometry analysis. Both inhibitors significantly inhibited phosphorylation of c-Jun in granulosa cells at 25, 50, and 100 μmol/L concentrations. Isolated preantral follicles cultured with these inhibitors exhibited arrested growth in culture in a dose-dependent manner. Cell cycle analyses showed that both inhibitors impair the progression of cell cycle at S phase and G2/M transition of granulosa cells. These results suggest that JNK pathway is essential for in vitro growth of preantral follicle growth and regulates both S phase and G2/M stages of cell cycle in granulosa cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ozgur Oktem
- Laboratory of Fertility Preservation and Molecular Reproduction, Departments of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Cell Biology & Anatomy, and Medicine, New York Medical College, Valhalla, New York 10595, USA
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Desai N, Alex A, AbdelHafez F, Calabro A, Goldfarb J, Fleischman A, Falcone T. Three-dimensional in vitro follicle growth: overview of culture models, biomaterials, design parameters and future directions. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2010; 8:119. [PMID: 20946661 PMCID: PMC2967553 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-8-119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2010] [Accepted: 10/14/2010] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
In vitro ovarian follicle culture is a new frontier in assisted reproductive technology with tremendous potential, especially for fertility preservation. Folliculogenesis within the ovary is a complex process requiring interaction between somatic cell components and the oocyte. Conventional two-dimensional culture on tissue culture substrata impedes spherical growth and preservation of the spatial arrangements between oocyte and surrounding granulosa cells. Granulosa cell attachment and migration can leave the oocyte naked and unable to complete the maturation process. Recognition of the importance of spatial arrangements between cells has spurred research in to three-dimensional culture system. Such systems may be vital when dealing with human primordial follicles that may require as long as three months in culture. In the present work we review pertinent aspects of in vitro follicle maturation, with an emphasis on tissue-engineering solutions for maintaining the follicular unit during the culture interval. We focus primarily on presenting the various 3-dimensional culture systems that have been applied for in vitro maturation of follicle:oocyte complexes. We also try to present an overview of outcomes with various biomaterials and animal models and also the limitations of the existing systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina Desai
- Cleveland Clinic Fertility Center, Department of OB/GYN and Women's Health Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Anastasia Alex
- Cleveland Clinic Fertility Center, Department of OB/GYN and Women's Health Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Faten AbdelHafez
- Cleveland Clinic Fertility Center, Department of OB/GYN and Women's Health Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Anthony Calabro
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - James Goldfarb
- Cleveland Clinic Fertility Center, Department of OB/GYN and Women's Health Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Aaron Fleischman
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Tommaso Falcone
- Cleveland Clinic Fertility Center, Department of OB/GYN and Women's Health Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
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Yung CW, Bentley WE, Barbari TA. Diffusion of interleukin-2 from cells overlaid with cytocompatible enzyme-crosslinked gelatin hydrogels. J Biomed Mater Res A 2010; 95:25-32. [DOI: 10.1002/jbm.a.32740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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Aerts JM, Martinez-Madrid B, Leroy JL, Van Aelst S, Bols PE. Xenotransplantation by injection of a suspension of isolated preantral ovarian follicles and stroma cells under the kidney capsule of nude mice. Fertil Steril 2010; 94:708-14. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2009.03.055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2008] [Revised: 02/27/2009] [Accepted: 03/12/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Jin SY, Lei L, Shikanov A, Shea LD, Woodruff TK. A novel two-step strategy for in vitro culture of early-stage ovarian follicles in the mouse. Fertil Steril 2009; 93:2633-9. [PMID: 20004373 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2009.10.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2009] [Revised: 10/15/2009] [Accepted: 10/19/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To develop an in vitro strategy to support the growth of early-stage follicles and produce mature oocytes competent for fertilization. DESIGN Whole ovaries from 8-day-old mice were cultured for 4 days, and then secondary follicles were isolated and cultured for 12 days in a three-dimensional alginate or fibrin-alginate (FA) hydrogel matrix. SETTING University-affiliated laboratory. ANIMALS Mice. INTERVENTION(S) None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Histologic evaluation of follicle development, steroid hormone production, and rates of oocyte maturation, oocyte fertilization, and embryo formation. RESULT(S) Culture of 8-day-old mouse ovaries for 4 days resulted in transition of the follicle population from primordial and primary follicles to secondary follicles, similar to that seen in a 12-day-old ovary. Isolated secondary follicles cultured for 12 days showed larger increases in oocyte diameter and more frequent antrum formation and theca cell differentiation in the FA-hydrogel matrix compared with the alginate matrix. Steroid hormone secretion patterns were consistent with the changes in follicle morphology and cell differentiation observed in the cultured follicles. Compared with oocytes from alginate follicle cultures, a greater number of oocytes retrieved from the FA-based follicle cultures progressed to metaphase I, reached metaphase II, and could be fertilized and cleaved to two-cell embryos. The organ culture plus FA-hydrogel follicle culture strategy produced a very high rate of oocyte progression to metaphase II (88 +/- 8.7% [mean +/- SEM]) and formation of two-cell embryos (54 +/- 4%). CONCLUSION(S) A strategy combining whole ovary culture of early-stage follicles and subsequent FA hydrogel in vitro follicle culture produced a high percentage of oocytes competent for fertilization; this might provide new options for fertility preservation in women and prepubertal girls facing fertility-threatening diseases or treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shi Ying Jin
- Center for Reproductive Research, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, USA
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47
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Effect of different mechanical isolation techniques on developmental competence and survival of buffalo ovarian preantral follicles. Livest Sci 2009. [DOI: 10.1016/j.livsci.2008.11.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Varghese AC, du Plessis SS, Falcone T, Agarwal A. Cryopreservation/transplantation of ovarian tissue and in vitro maturation of follicles and oocytes: challenges for fertility preservation. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2008; 6:47. [PMID: 18828928 PMCID: PMC2567323 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-6-47] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2008] [Accepted: 10/02/2008] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryopreservation of ovarian tissue and in vitro follicle maturation are two emerging techniques for fertility preservation, especially in cancer patients. These treatment regimes are opening up more options and allow for more suitable choices to preserve fertility according to the patient's specific circumstances. If these technologies are to become widely accepted, they need to be safe, easy to perform and must obtain favorable results. The generation of healthy eggs with the normal genetic complement and the ability to develop into viable and healthy embryos requires tight regulation of oocyte development and maturation. Novel freezing techniques such as vitrification, along with whole ovary cryopreservation and three-dimensional follicle cultures, have shown favorable outcomes. The scope of this article is to take a comprehensively look at the challenges still faced in order for these novel technologies to be routinely employed with the aim of successful fertility preservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex C Varghese
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Glickman Urological and Kidney Institute and Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Women's Health Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Ohio, USA
| | - Stefan S du Plessis
- Division of Medical Physiology, University of Stellenbosch, Tygerberg, South Africa
| | - Tommaso Falcone
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Glickman Urological and Kidney Institute and Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Women's Health Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Ohio, USA
| | - Ashok Agarwal
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Glickman Urological and Kidney Institute and Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Women's Health Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Ohio, USA
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Sharma GT, Dubey PK, Meur SK. Survival and developmental competence of buffalo preantral follicles using three-dimensional collagen gel culture system. Anim Reprod Sci 2008; 114:115-24. [PMID: 19095385 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2008.09.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2008] [Revised: 08/28/2008] [Accepted: 09/05/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to develop a three-dimensional (3D) collagen gel culture system for the in vitro growth and survival of buffalo preantral follicles with or without growth factors. Buffalo ovaries were collected from a local abattoir and preantral follicles were isolated through microdissection. Isolated preantral follicles were put either in collagen gel coated culture dish or embedded in a microdrop of collagen gel. The culture medium was TCM-199 fortified with fetal calf serum (10%), insulin transferin selenium solution (ITS, 1%), epidermal growth factor (EGF, 20 ng/ml) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH, 0.5 microg/ml). Follicles were divided into three groups and cultured in the medium described above (group a, control), with addition of insulin like growth factor (IGF-I, 100 ng/ml, group b), or with addition of IGF-I and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF, 10 ng/ml, group c). Preantral follicles were incubated at 38.5 degrees C in 5% CO(2) and maximum humidity. Culture medium was replenished after every 72 h and spent medium was stored at -30 degrees C for hormone analysis. We found that the extracellular matrix of collagen gel maintained follicle viability and growth by providing surface interaction and increasing attachment of follicles. Preantral follicles embedded in collagen gel droplets had better antrum formation and development as compared to the whole surface coated culture method. Follicles cultured with IGF-I on collagen gel matrix showed a significantly (P<0.05) higher survival rate and larger mean diameter of follicles on day 10 of culture with improved growth and mucification as compared to the control group. However, follicles cultured in the combination of IGF-I with bFGF had decreased survival rate and smaller mean follicles diameter than the IGF-I group (b). Progesterone (P(4)) accumulation was greater on day 9 of culture in follicles cultured in IGF-I as compared to control; whereas, P(4) was markedly decreased in the combination of IGF-I with bFGF. Follicles of the control group could survive for up to 10-15 days before degenerating, but follicles cultured with growth factors were able to survive up to 20 days and showed signs of early antrum formation. In summary, we have shown that collagen gel was a novel and efficacious 3D microenvironment for the extended culture of buffalo preantral follicles. Supplementation of culture medium with growth factors was found to be essential for antrum formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Taru Sharma
- Reproductive Physiology & ETT Laboratory, Division of Physiology & Climatology, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, UP 243122, India.
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Abstract
A prerequisite to the understanding of the ovarian diseases and infertility is a thorough understanding of normal embryology and physiology of the ovary. Therefore, the objective of this review article is to provide brief and updated information on the molecular basis of the events that control gonadal development, germ cell formation, folliculogenesis, and ovulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ozgur Oktem
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, New York Medical College, Munger Pavilion Room 617, Valhalla, NY 10595, USA
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