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Baruselli PS, de Abreu LÂ, Catussi BLC, Oliveira ACDS, Rebeis LM, Gricio EA, Albertini S, Sales JNS, Rodrigues CA. Use of new recombinant proteins for ovarian stimulation in ruminants. Anim Reprod 2023; 20:e20230092. [PMID: 37720727 PMCID: PMC10503889 DOI: 10.1590/1984-3143-ar2023-0092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Currently, gonadotropin products (follicle stimulating hormone, FSH, and luteinizing hormone, LH) used in animal reproduction are produced by extraction and purification from abattoir-derived pituitary glands. This method, relying on animal-derived materials, carries the potential risk of hormone contamination and pathogen transmission. Additionally, chorionic gonadotropins are extracted from the blood of pregnant mares (equine chorionic gonadotropin; eCG) or the urine of pregnant women (human chorionic gonadotropin; hCG). However, recent advancements have introduced recombinant gonadotropins for assisted animal reproduction therapies. The traditional use of FSH for superovulation has limitations, including labor requirements and variability in superovulation response, affecting the success of in vivo (SOV) and in vitro (OPU/IVEP) embryo production. FSH treatment for superstimulation before OPU can promote the growth of a homogenous follicular population and the recovery of competent oocytes suitable for IVEP procedures. At present, a single injection of a preparation of long-acting bovine recombinant FSH (rFSH) produced similar superovulation responses resulting in the production of good-quality in vivo and in vitro embryos. Furthermore, the treatment with eCG at FTAI protocol has demonstrated its efficacy in promoting follicular growth, ovulation, and P/AI, mainly in heifers and anestrous cows. Currently, treatment with recombinant glycoproteins with eCG-like activity (r-eCG) have shown promising results in increasing follicular growth, ovulation, and P/AI in cows submitted to P4/E2 -based protocols. Bovine somatotropin (bST) is a naturally occurring hormone found in cows. Recombinant bovine somatotropin (rbST), produced through genetic engineering techniques, has shown potential in enhancing reproductive outcomes in ruminants. Treatment with rbST has been found to improve P/IA, increase donor embryo production, and enhance P/ET in recipients. The use of recombinant hormones allows to produce non-animal-derived products, offering several advantages in assisted reproductive technologies for ruminants. This advancement opens up new possibilities for improving reproductive efficiency and success rates in the field of animal reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pietro Sampaio Baruselli
- Departamento de Reprodução Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - Laís Ângelo de Abreu
- Departamento de Reprodução Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - Bruna Lima Chechin Catussi
- Departamento de Reprodução Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - Ana Carolina dos Santos Oliveira
- Departamento de Reprodução Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - Lígia Mattos Rebeis
- Departamento de Reprodução Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - Emanuele Almeida Gricio
- Departamento de Reprodução Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - Sofía Albertini
- Departamento de Reprodução Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
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Speckhart SL, Oliver MA, Ealy AD. Developmental Hurdles That Can Compromise Pregnancy during the First Month of Gestation in Cattle. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:1760. [PMID: 37889637 PMCID: PMC10251927 DOI: 10.3390/ani13111760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Revised: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Several key developmental events are associated with early embryonic pregnancy losses in beef and dairy cows. These developmental problems are observed at a greater frequency in pregnancies generated from in-vitro-produced bovine embryos. This review describes critical problems that arise during oocyte maturation, fertilization, early embryonic development, compaction and blastulation, embryonic cell lineage specification, elongation, gastrulation, and placentation. Additionally, discussed are potential remediation strategies, but unfortunately, corrective actions are not available for several of the problems being discussed. Further research is needed to produce bovine embryos that have a greater likelihood of surviving to term.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Alan D. Ealy
- School of Animal Science, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA; (S.L.S.); (M.A.O.)
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3
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Future potential of in vitro maturation including fertility preservation. Fertil Steril 2023; 119:550-559. [PMID: 36702341 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2023.01.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
In several mammalian species, oocytes from small antral follicles after in vitro maturation (IVM) are successfully used for procreation. Humans are the exception, mainly because of limited access to immature oocytes and because oocyte maturation is uniquely regulated in women. With the introduction of cryopreservation of the ovarian cortex for fertility preservation, immature oocytes from small antral follicles in the medulla are now available for developing IVM on the basis of actual human studies. This review presents recent findings in favor of developing human IVM, including the oocyte diameter, follicle size from which the immature oocytes are collected, necessary level of follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone to accelerate IVM, and secretion of factors from the cumulus-oocyte complex that affect the way oocyte maturation takes place. Furthermore, on the basis of studies in human granulosa cells and follicle fluid collected during the final maturation of follicles in vivo, a number of signal transduction pathways and hormone levels active during physiological conditions have been identified, providing new candidates and ways to improve the current IVM platform. Furthermore, it is suggested that the small droplet of culture medium in which IVM is performed mimics the hormonal milieu within a follicle created by the somatic cells and oocyte in vivo and may be used to advance oocyte nuclear and cytoplasmic maturation. Collectively, we envision that a continued research effort will develop a human IVM platform equally effective as for other mammalian species.
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Culture conditions for in vitro maturation of oocytes – A review. REPRODUCTION AND BREEDING 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.repbre.2022.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
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5
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Clark ZL, Karl KR, Ruebel ML, Latham KE, Ireland JJ. Excessive follicle-stimulating hormone during ovarian stimulation of cattle may induce premature luteinization of most ovulatory-size follicles†. Biol Reprod 2022; 106:968-978. [PMID: 35084014 PMCID: PMC9113431 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Revised: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
High follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) doses during ovarian stimulation are detrimental to ovulatory follicle function and decrease live birth rate in cattle and women. However, the mechanism whereby excessive FSH causes ovarian dysfunction is unknown. This study tested the hypothesis that excessive FSH during ovarian stimulation induces premature luteinization of ovulatory-size follicles. Small ovarian reserve heifers were injected twice daily for 4 days with 70 IU (N = 7 heifers) or 210 IU (N = 6 heifers) Folltropin-V [commercial FSH-enriched preparation of porcine pituitary glands with minor (<1%) luteinizing hormone (LH) contamination, cpFSH]. Ovulatory-size (≥10 mm) follicles were excised from ovaries after the last cpFSH injection and hormone concentrations in follicular fluid (FF) were determined using ELISA. Luteinization was monitored by assessing cumulus cell-oocyte complex (COC) morphology and measuring concentrations of estradiol (E), progesterone (P), and oxytocin (O) in FF. COCs were classified as having compact (cCOC) or expanded (eCOC) cumulus cell layers, and as estrogen-active (E:P in FF ≥1), estrogen-inactive (EI, E:P in FF ≤1 > 0.1), or extreme-estrogen-inactive (EEI, E:P in FF ≤0.1). A high proportion (72%) of ovulatory-size follicles in 210 IU, but not 70 IU, dose heifers displayed eCOCs. The high doses also produced higher proportions of EI or EEI follicles which had lower E:P ratio and/or E but higher P and/or O concentrations compared with the 70 IU dose heifers. In conclusion, excessive cpFSH doses during ovarian stimulation may induce premature luteinization of most ovulatory-size follicles in heifers with small ovarian reserves.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zaramasina L Clark
- Reproductive and Developmental Sciences Program, Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Kaitlin R Karl
- Reproductive and Developmental Sciences Program, Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Meghan L Ruebel
- Reproductive and Developmental Sciences Program, Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Keith E Latham
- Reproductive and Developmental Sciences Program, Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - James J Ireland
- Correspondence: Molecular Reproductive Endocrinology Laboratory, Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA. Tel: +1517 432 1384; E-mail:
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Cadenas J, Nikiforov D, Pors SE, Zuniga LA, Wakimoto Y, Ghezelayagh Z, Mamsen LS, Kristensen SG, Andersen CY. A threshold concentration of FSH is needed during IVM of ex vivo collected human oocytes. J Assist Reprod Genet 2021; 38:1341-1348. [PMID: 34050448 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-021-02244-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2021] [Accepted: 05/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate the effect of different FSH concentrations on human oocyte maturation in vitro and its impact on gene expression of key factors in the surrounding cumulus cells. METHODS The study included 32 patients who underwent unilateral oophorectomy for ovarian tissue cryopreservation (OTC) (aged 28 years on average). Immature oocytes were collected from surplus medulla tissue. A total of 587 immature oocytes were divided into three categories according to the size of the cumulus mass: large (L-COCs), small (S-COCs), and naked oocytes (NOs), and submitted to 44-h IVM with one of the following concentrations of recombinant FSH: 0 IU/L, 20 IU/L, 40 IU/L, 70 IU/L, or 250 IU/L. After IVM, oocyte nuclear maturation stage and diameter were recorded. The relative gene expression of FSHR, LHCGR, and CYP19A1 in cumulus cells before (day 0; D0) and after IVM were evaluated. RESULTS Addition of 70 or 250 IU/L FSH to the IVM medium improved oocyte nuclear maturation compared to 0, 20, and 40 IU/L FSH by upregulating LHCGR and downregulating FSHR in the cumulus cells. CONCLUSION FSH improved oocyte nuclear maturation at concentrations above 70 IU/L suggesting a threshold for FSH during IVM of ex vivo collected human oocytes from small antral follicles. Moreover, current results for the first time highlight that FSH function in vitro is mediated via cumulus cells by downregulating FSHR and upregulating LHCGR, which was also observed when the immature oocytes progressed in meiosis from the GV to the MII stage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesús Cadenas
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, The Juliane Marie Centre for Women, Children and Reproduction, University Hospital of Copenhagen, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Dmitry Nikiforov
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, The Juliane Marie Centre for Women, Children and Reproduction, University Hospital of Copenhagen, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Susanne Elisabeth Pors
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, The Juliane Marie Centre for Women, Children and Reproduction, University Hospital of Copenhagen, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Lenin Arturo Zuniga
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, The Juliane Marie Centre for Women, Children and Reproduction, University Hospital of Copenhagen, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Yu Wakimoto
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, The Juliane Marie Centre for Women, Children and Reproduction, University Hospital of Copenhagen, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hyogo College of Medicine, Nishinomiya, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Zeinab Ghezelayagh
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, The Juliane Marie Centre for Women, Children and Reproduction, University Hospital of Copenhagen, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Embryology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Linn Salto Mamsen
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, The Juliane Marie Centre for Women, Children and Reproduction, University Hospital of Copenhagen, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Stine Gry Kristensen
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, The Juliane Marie Centre for Women, Children and Reproduction, University Hospital of Copenhagen, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Claus Yding Andersen
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, The Juliane Marie Centre for Women, Children and Reproduction, University Hospital of Copenhagen, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Transcriptomics of cumulus cells - a window into oocyte maturation in humans. J Ovarian Res 2020; 13:93. [PMID: 32787963 PMCID: PMC7425158 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-020-00696-7] [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: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 07/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Cumulus cells (CC) encapsulate growing oocytes and support their growth and development. Transcriptomic signatures of CC have the potential to serve as valuable non-invasive biomarkers for oocyte competency and potential. The present sibling cumulus-oocyte-complex (COC) cohort study aimed at defining functional variations between oocytes of different maturity exposed to the same stimulation conditions, by assessing the transcriptomic signatures of their corresponding CC. CC were collected from 18 patients with both germinal vesicle and metaphase II oocytes from the same cycle to keep the biological variability between samples to a minimum. RNA sequencing, differential expression, pathway analysis, and leading-edge were performed to highlight functional differences between CC encapsulating oocytes of different maturity. Results Transcriptomic signatures representing CC encapsulating oocytes of different maturity clustered separately on principal component analysis with 1818 genes differentially expressed. CCs encapsulating mature oocytes were more transcriptionally synchronized when compared with CCs encapsulating immature oocytes. Moreover, the transcriptional activity was lower, albeit not absent, in CC encapsulating mature oocytes, with 2407 fewer transcripts detected than in CC encapsulating immature (germinal vesicle - GV) oocytes. Hallmark pathways and ovarian processes that were affected by oocyte maturity included cell cycle regulation, steroid metabolism, apoptosis, extracellular matrix remodeling, and inflammation. Conclusions Herein we review our findings and discuss how they align with previous literature addressing transcriptomic signatures of oocyte maturation. Our findings support the available literature and enhance it with several genes and pathways, which have not been previously implicated in promoting human oocyte maturation. This study lays the ground for future functional studies that can enhance our understanding of human oocyte maturation.
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Carrillo-González DF, Rodríguez-Osorio N, Long CR, Vásquez-Araque NA, Maldonado-Estrada JG. l-Carnitine Supplementation during In Vitro Maturation and In Vitro Culture Does not Affect the Survival Rates after Vitrification and Warming but Alters Inf-T and ptgs2 Gene Expression. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21165601. [PMID: 32764334 PMCID: PMC7460650 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21165601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2020] [Revised: 07/10/2020] [Accepted: 07/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
l-carnitine is a potent antioxidant used for in vitro culture systems. Controversial results have been reported using l-carnitine in culture medium at different stages of in vitro bovine embryo production. Cumulus-oocyte complexes (n = 843) were in vitro-fertilized and cultured and added (treatment group) or not added (control group) with l-carnitine. At day three of culture, each group was subdivided into two subgroups receiving no l-carnitine (group 1), 3.8 mM l-carnitine added during in vitro maturation (group 2), 1.5 mM added during the in vitro culture (group 3), and 3.8 mM and 1.5 mM added during the maturation and culture, respectively (group 4). At day 8, blastocyst embryos were examined for mitochondrial activity, the presence of lipid droplets, total cell number, gene expression, and cryotolerance by vitrification. The data were analyzed with a one-way analysis of variance. l-carnitine added in the late in vitro culture significantly reduced mitochondrial activity and lipid content, and upregulated ifn-τ and ptgs2 gene expression compared to controls (p < 0.05). l-carnitine supplementation did not significantly affect the embryo rate production or survival rate after vitrification and warming (p > 0.05). l-carnitine supplementation significantly improved embryo potential to develop viable pregnancies in agreement with a study reporting improved pregnancy rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diego F. Carrillo-González
- One Health and Veterinary Innovative Research and Development (OHVRI) Group, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Antioquia, Medellin 050034, Colombia;
- Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, School of Zootechny, Universidad de Sucre, Sincelejo 700001, Colombia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +57-31-12-782241
| | - Nélida Rodríguez-Osorio
- Genomics and Bioinformatics Lab, Department of Biological Sciences, University of the Republic of Uruguay, Salto Campus, Rivera 1350, Salto 50000, Uruguay;
| | - Charles R. Long
- Department of Veterinary Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA;
| | - Neil A. Vásquez-Araque
- Grupo de investigación Biotecnología Animal, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Sede Medellín, Medellín 050034, Colombia;
| | - Juan G. Maldonado-Estrada
- One Health and Veterinary Innovative Research and Development (OHVRI) Group, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Antioquia, Medellin 050034, Colombia;
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Xia Y, Wang Q, He XD, Chen Y, JiGe MT, Zi XD. Cloning and expression analysis of the follicle-stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR) gene in the reproductive axis of female yaks (Bos grunniens). Domest Anim Endocrinol 2020; 70:106383. [PMID: 31479928 DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2019.07.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2018] [Revised: 07/21/2019] [Accepted: 07/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Follicle-stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR) plays a central role in promoting follicle maturation through the follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)-mediated cAMP pathway in animals. The objectives of the present study were to clone the FSHR gene of yaks (Bos grunniens) and compare differences in FSHR mRNA expression in the reproductive axis between yaks and cattle. Hypothalamus, anterior pituitary, oviduct, ovary, and uterus tissue samples were collected from adult female yaks (n = 5) and cattle (n = 5) during the follicular phase. Using reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), we found that the FSHR coding region of the yak is 2088 bp and encodes 695 amino acids. Its amino acid sequence showed 99.38%-72.22% similarity to the homologous genes of cattle, goats, sheep, cats, donkeys, horses, humans, chickens, monkeys, mice, rats, and wild boar. Real-time PCR analysis revealed that the FSHR gene was expressed in all tissues examined. Expression of the FSHR gene in the yak was higher in the uterus than other tissues (P < 0.05) but, in cattle, was higher in the ovary than other tissues (P < 0.05). The FSHR gene expression level in the cattle ovary was significantly higher than that in the yak ovary (P < 0.01). These results indicate that the FSHR gene is relatively conserved in the course of animal evolution. The variation in sequence and expression level of FSHR between the two species might be associated with the difference in their reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Xia
- The Key Laboratory of Animal Science of State Ethnic Affairs Commission, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu 610041, PR China
| | - Q Wang
- The Key Laboratory of Animal Science of State Ethnic Affairs Commission, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu 610041, PR China
| | - X D He
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Conservation & Utilization of Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau Animal Genetic Resources, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu 610041, PR China
| | - Y Chen
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Conservation & Utilization of Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau Animal Genetic Resources, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu 610041, PR China
| | - M T JiGe
- The Key Laboratory of Animal Science of State Ethnic Affairs Commission, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu 610041, PR China
| | - X D Zi
- The Key Laboratory of Animal Science of State Ethnic Affairs Commission, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu 610041, PR China.
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10
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Singh N, Vignarajan C, Vanamail P. The effect of follicle-stimulating hormone administration on the day of human chorionic gonadotropin trigger on assisted reproductive technique outcomes in patients undergoing In vitro fertilization-embryo transfer: A retrospective cohort study. J Hum Reprod Sci 2020; 13:196-200. [PMID: 33311905 PMCID: PMC7727880 DOI: 10.4103/jhrs.jhrs_137_19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2019] [Accepted: 04/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim: Settings and Design: Materials and Methods: Statistical Analysis Used: Results: Conclusions:
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11
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Zhao H, Ge J, Wei J, Liu J, Liu C, Ma C, Zhao X, Wei Q, Ma B. Effect of FSH on E 2/GPR30-mediated mouse oocyte maturation in vitro. Cell Signal 2019; 66:109464. [PMID: 31704004 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2019.109464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2019] [Revised: 10/27/2019] [Accepted: 10/31/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Mammalian oocyte restores meiosis can be stimulated by follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) under normal physiological conditions. G-protein coupled receptor 30 (GPR30), an non-classical estrogen membrane receptor, has been widely reported in teleost oocyte maturation. However, it remains unknown whether GPR30 involves the role of FSH in mammalian cumulus expansion and oocyte maturation. Here, we used mouse cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) as a model to investigate how FSH affects the in vitro maturation of mouse oocytes mediated by 17β-estradiol (E2)/GPR30signaling. Our study reveals that FSH starts regulating mouse cumulus expansion precisely at 8h in in vitro culture. ELISA measurement of E2 levels in culture medium revealed that FSH activated aromatase to promote E2 production in vitro in cultured mouse COCs. Moreover, the results of real-time quantitative PCR indicated that FSH-induced in vitro maturation of mouse oocytes was regulated by the estrogen-signaling pathway mediated by GPR30; FSH treatment markedly increased the mRNA expression of HAS2, PTGS2, and GREM1 in COCs. Exploration of the underlying mechanism suggested that E2 produced by mouse COCs regulated the phosphorylation level of extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) through GPR30 and thereby promoted mouse cumulus-cell expansion and oocyte maturation. In conclusion, our study reveals that FSH induced estrogen production in mouse COCs through aromatase, and that aromatase/GPR30/ERK1/2 signaling is involved in FSH-induced cumulus expansion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Zhao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Junbang Ge
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China; Bio-X Institutes, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, People's Republic of China
| | - Juncai Wei
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Jie Liu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Chen Liu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Chiyuan Ma
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoe Zhao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Qiang Wei
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China.
| | - Baohua Ma
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China.
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Barros VRP, Monte APO, Lins TLBG, Santos JM, Menezes VG, Cavalcante AYP, Araújo VR, Gouveia BB, Matos MHT. In vitro survival, growth, and maturation of sheep oocytes from secondary follicles cultured in serum-free conditions: impact of a constant or a sequential medium containing recombinant human FSH. Domest Anim Endocrinol 2019; 67:71-79. [PMID: 30765293 DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2018.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2018] [Revised: 12/07/2018] [Accepted: 12/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
This study evaluated the in vitro development and maturation of ovine oocytes from secondary follicles cultured in serum-free medium containing fixed or sequential concentrations of recombinant human FSH (rhFSH). Follicles were cultured in α-MEM+ alone or with constant (500, 750, or 1,000 ng/mL) or sequential concentrations of rhFSH (seq. 1: day 6 = 500; day 12 = 750; day 18 = 1,000 ng/mL and seq. 2: day 6 = 100; day 12 = 500; day 18 = 1,000 ng/mL). At the end of the experiment, follicular survival was higher (P < 0.05) in 750 ng/mL rhFSH than the control and 1,000 ng/mL rhFSH. As early as day 6 of culture, antral cavity formation was observed in all treatments. Follicular diameter increased progressively and significantly in all treatments throughout 18 d of culture. Furthermore, addition of rhFSH to the medium promoted a significant increase in the percentage of fully grown oocytes in all treatments compared to α-MEM+. Mitochondrial activity was higher in rhFSH treatments than in the control, except in rhFSH seq. 2 (P < 0.05). Maturation rates increased in oocytes from intact follicles cultured in 750 ng/mL rhFSH compared to the control (P < 0.05). In conclusion, rhFSH at 750 ng/mL maintained the survival of secondary follicles cultured in serum-free medium, improved oocyte growth, mitochondrial activity, and oocyte maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- V R P Barros
- Nucleus of Biotechnology Applied to Ovarian Follicle Development, Federal University of São Francisco Valley, Petrolina, PE 56300-990, Brazil
| | - A P O Monte
- Nucleus of Biotechnology Applied to Ovarian Follicle Development, Federal University of São Francisco Valley, Petrolina, PE 56300-990, Brazil
| | - T L B G Lins
- Nucleus of Biotechnology Applied to Ovarian Follicle Development, Federal University of São Francisco Valley, Petrolina, PE 56300-990, Brazil
| | - J M Santos
- Nucleus of Biotechnology Applied to Ovarian Follicle Development, Federal University of São Francisco Valley, Petrolina, PE 56300-990, Brazil
| | - V G Menezes
- Nucleus of Biotechnology Applied to Ovarian Follicle Development, Federal University of São Francisco Valley, Petrolina, PE 56300-990, Brazil
| | - A Y P Cavalcante
- Nucleus of Biotechnology Applied to Ovarian Follicle Development, Federal University of São Francisco Valley, Petrolina, PE 56300-990, Brazil
| | - V R Araújo
- Health Center Science, State University of Ceará, 60714-903 Fortaleza, CE, Brazil
| | - B B Gouveia
- Nucleus of Biotechnology Applied to Ovarian Follicle Development, Federal University of São Francisco Valley, Petrolina, PE 56300-990, Brazil
| | - M H T Matos
- Nucleus of Biotechnology Applied to Ovarian Follicle Development, Federal University of São Francisco Valley, Petrolina, PE 56300-990, Brazil.
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Read CC, Willhelm G, Dyce PW. Connexin 43 coupling in bovine cumulus cells, during the follicular growth phase, and its relationship to in vitro embryo outcomes. Mol Reprod Dev 2018; 85:579-589. [PMID: 29697878 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.22993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2017] [Accepted: 04/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Gap junctional coupling between cumulus cells is required for oocytes to reach developmental competence. Multiple connexins, which form these gap junctions, have been found within the ovarian follicles of several species including bovine. The aim of this study was to determine the role of connexin 43 (CX43) and its relationship to embryo development, after in vitro fertilization (IVF). Cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) were obtained from abattoir sourced, mixed breed, bovine ovaries. COCs were isolated from follicles ranging from 2 to 5 mm in size, representing the preselected follicle pool. Immediately after isolation, two cumulus cell biopsies were collected and stored for analysis pending determination of developmental outcomes. Using in vitro procedures, COCs were individually matured, fertilized, and cultured to the blastocyst stage. Biopsies were grouped as originating from COCs that arrested at the two-cell stage (low developmental competence [LDC]) or having developed to the late morula/blastocyst stage (high developmental competence [HDC]), after IVF and embryo culture. The expression level of CX43 was found to be significantly higher in cumulus cells from COCs that had an HDC when compared with those that had an LDC. Moreover, the gap junctional intercellular coupling rate was significantly higher in cumulus from COCs deemed to have an HDC. Significantly higher expression of the cumulus health markers luteinizing hormone receptor and cytochrome p450 19A1 was found in the cumulus originating from oocytes with HDC, suggesting that this system may provide a mechanism for noninvasively testing for oocyte health in preselected bovine follicles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Casey C Read
- Department of Animal Sciences, College of Agriculture, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama
| | - Gabby Willhelm
- Department of Animal Sciences, College of Agriculture, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama
| | - Paul W Dyce
- Department of Animal Sciences, College of Agriculture, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama
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Zhang H, Cheng GH, Li YJ, Cai MY, Guo HY, Qin KL. Superovulation and expression of follicle-stimulating hormone receptor in young rabbit females. WORLD RABBIT SCIENCE 2017. [DOI: 10.4995/wrs.2017.4485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
<p>To optimise the use of juvenile in vitro embryo transfer technologies in young rabbit females, superovulation was performed in New Zealand White young rabbit females at different ages and the expression mode of follicle-stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR) was explored using real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction, and in vitro maturation (IVM) together with fertilisation (IVF) was conducted immediately after superovulation. The results showed that (1) the age factor significantly affected superovulation in young rabbit females, with 60 d as an optimal age; (2) the mRNA level of FSHR exhibited a rising trend, though it was lower at 30 to 40 d of age; (3) the maturation rate of the oocytes from 60 d old rabbits was significantly higher than in those from 50 d old rabbits; (4) the fertilisation rate of oocytes was not significantly different among rabbits 50, 60 and 70 d old.</p>
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15
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Vigone G, Merico V, Redi CA, Mazzini G, Garagna S, Zuccotti M. FSH and LH receptors are differentially expressed in cumulus cells surrounding developmentally competent and incompetent mouse fully grown antral oocytes. Reprod Fertil Dev 2017; 27:497-503. [PMID: 24476692 DOI: 10.1071/rd13251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2013] [Accepted: 12/18/2013] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Cumulus cells (CCs) maintain strict functional relationships with the enclosed antral oocyte and are thought to reflect its developmental competence. Several studies have described a correlation between CC gene expression and oocyte quality. Herein, we tested whether CC-specific FSH and LH receptors (FSHR and LHR, respectively) are differentially expressed in CCs enclosing developmentally competent or incompetent oocytes. To this end, mouse fully grown cumulus-oocyte complexes were isolated and their CCs and oocytes analysed separately. Based on their chromatin organisation, oocytes were classified as those with a surrounded nucleolus (SN) or a non-surrounded nucleolus (NSN), the former being developmentally competent, whereas the latter arrest at the 2-cell stage. The CCs were then analysed to compare the pattern of expression of the Fshr and Lhr genes and their proteins. Quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction analysis revealed that only Lhr is significantly differentially expressed. Immunofluorescence analysis revealed that both FSHR and LHR proteins are significantly upregulated in CCs surrounding oocytes arrested at the 2-cell stage, reflecting their developmental incompetence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Vigone
- Laboratorio di Biologia dello Sviluppo, Dipartimento di Biologia e Biotecnologie 'Lazzaro Spallanzani', Università degli Studi di Pavia, Via Ferrata 9, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Valeria Merico
- Laboratorio di Biologia dello Sviluppo, Dipartimento di Biologia e Biotecnologie 'Lazzaro Spallanzani', Università degli Studi di Pavia, Via Ferrata 9, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Carlo Alberto Redi
- Laboratorio di Biologia dello Sviluppo, Dipartimento di Biologia e Biotecnologie 'Lazzaro Spallanzani', Università degli Studi di Pavia, Via Ferrata 9, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Giuliano Mazzini
- Istituto di Genetica Molecolare-Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Via Ferrata 9, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Silvia Garagna
- Laboratorio di Biologia dello Sviluppo, Dipartimento di Biologia e Biotecnologie 'Lazzaro Spallanzani', Università degli Studi di Pavia, Via Ferrata 9, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Maurizio Zuccotti
- Sezione di Anatomia, Istologia ed Embriologia, Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche, Biotecnologiche e Traslazionali, Università degli Studi di Parma, Via Gramsci 14, 43126 Parma, Italy
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16
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Arias-Álvarez M, García-García RM, López-Tello J, Rebollar PG, Gutiérrez-Adán A, Lorenzo PL. In vivo and in vitro maturation of rabbit oocytes differently affects the gene expression profile, mitochondrial distribution, apoptosis and early embryo development. Reprod Fertil Dev 2017; 29:1667-1679. [DOI: 10.1071/rd15553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2015] [Accepted: 08/16/2016] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
In vivo-matured cumulus–oocyte complexes are valuable models in which to assess potential biomarkers of rabbit oocyte quality that contribute to enhanced IVM systems. In the present study we compared some gene markers of oocytes and cumulus cells (CCs) from immature, in vivo-matured and IVM oocytes. Moreover, apoptosis in CCs, nuclear maturation, mitochondrial reallocation and the developmental potential of oocytes after IVF were assessed. In relation to cumulus expansion, gene expression of gap junction protein, alpha 1, 43 kDa (Gja1) and prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 2 (Ptgs2) was significantly lower in CCs after in vivo maturation than IVM. In addition, there were differences in gene expression after in vivo maturation versus IVM in both oocytes and CCs for genes related to cell cycle regulation and apoptosis (V-Akt murine thymoma viral oncogene homologue 1 (Akt1), tumour protein 53 (Tp53), caspase 3, apoptosis-related cysteine protease (Casp3)), oxidative response (superoxide dismutase 2, mitochondrial (Sod2)) and metabolism (glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6pd), glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (Gapdh)). In vivo-matured CCs had a lower apoptosis rate than IVM and immature CCs. Meiotic progression, mitochondrial migration to the periphery and developmental competence were higher for in vivo-matured than IVM oocytes. In conclusion, differences in oocyte developmental capacity after IVM or in vivo maturation are accompanied by significant changes in transcript abundance in oocytes and their surrounding CCs, meiotic rate, mitochondrial distribution and apoptotic index. Some of the genes investigated, such as Gja1, could be potential biomarkers for oocyte developmental competence in the rabbit model, helping improve in vitro culture systems in these species.
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Veraguas D, Gallegos PF, Velasquez AE, Castro FO, Rodriguez-Alvarez L. FSH stimulation of anestrous cats improves oocyte quality and development of parthenogenetic embryos. Theriogenology 2016; 87:25-35. [PMID: 27616216 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2016.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2016] [Revised: 07/31/2016] [Accepted: 08/03/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
In the domestic cat, the efficiency of in vitro embryo production systems is negatively affected during the nonbreeding season. The objective of this research was to evaluate the effect of FSH stimulation in anestrous cats, on quality of cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) and in vitro developmental competence after parthenogenetic activation. To accomplish this purpose, anestrous cats were grouped into: (1) FSH treated (serial doses of 5 mg of porcine FSH each, every 24 hours, for 4 days) and (2) untreated control. The COCs were classified morphologically and a proportion of grade I and II COCs was used for expression analysis of FSHR, LHCGR, EGFR, PTGS2, EGR1, GDF9, and GATM by RT-qPCR. In addition, another proportion of grade I and II COCs was matured in vitro and used for parthenogenetic activation. After 8 days in culture, blastocyst and hatching blastocyst rates were assessed, and the expression of OCT4, SOX2, NANOG, CDX2, and GATA6 was evaluated. The COCs in the FSH group had an enhanced quality, a higher expression of LHCGR and a lower expression of GATM than did COCs from the control group (P < 0.05). Furthermore, embryos in the FSH group had increased blastocyst and hatching blastocyst rates, and those embryos had a higher expression of OCT4 and GATA than their counterparts from the control group (P < 0.05). In conclusion, ovarian stimulation of anestrous cats with FSH improved quality and increased the expression of LHCGR in COCs. The enhanced in vitro developmental competence, after parthenogenetic activation of oocytes from FSH-treated cats, coincided with an increased expression of OCT4 and GATA6 in blastocysts and hatching blastocysts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Veraguas
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Concepcion, Chillán, Chile
| | - Paula F Gallegos
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Concepcion, Chillán, Chile
| | - Alejandra E Velasquez
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Concepcion, Chillán, Chile
| | - Fidel O Castro
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Concepcion, Chillán, Chile
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Tessaro I, Modina SC, Franciosi F, Sivelli G, Terzaghi L, Lodde V, Luciano AM. Effect of oral administration of low-dose follicle stimulating hormone on hyperandrogenized mice as a model of polycystic ovary syndrome. J Ovarian Res 2015; 8:64. [PMID: 26437930 PMCID: PMC4594749 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-015-0192-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2015] [Accepted: 09/29/2015] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a widespread reproductive disorder characterized by a disruption of follicular growth and anovulatory infertility. In women with PCOS, follicular growth and ovulation can be induced by subcutaneous injections of low doses of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH). The aim of this study was to determine the effect of oral administration of recombinant human FSH (rhFSH) on follicle development in a PCOS murine model. Moreover, since it is unlikely that intact rhFSH is present into the circulation after oral administration, the biological activity of a peptide fragment, derived from the predicted enzymatic cleavage sites with the FSH molecule, was investigated in vitro on cumulus-enclosed oocytes (COCs). Methods Female peripubertal mice were injected with dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) diluted in sesame oil for 20 consecutive days and orally treated with a saline solution of rhFSH. A control group received only sesame oil and saline solution. At the end of treatments, blood was analyzed for hormone concentrations and ovaries were processed for morphological analysis. The presumptive bioactive peptide was added during in vitro maturation of bovine COCs and the effects on cumulus expansion and on maturation rate were evaluated. Results DHEA treatment increased serum levels of testosterone, estradiol and progesterone as well as the percentage of cystic follicles. Orally administered rhFSH restored estradiol level and reduced the percentage of cystic follicles. Despite these results indicating a reduction of the severity of PCOS in the mouse model, the presumptive bioactive peptide did not mimic the effect of rhFSH and failed to induce bovine cumulus expansion and oocyte maturation in vitro. Conclusions Although further studies are needed, the present data supports the concept that orally administrated FSH could attenuate some of the characteristic of PCOS in the mouse model. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13048-015-0192-9) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Tessaro
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, Department of Health, Animal Science and Food Safety, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Celoria 10, Milan, 20133, Italy.
| | - Silvia C Modina
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, Department of Health, Animal Science and Food Safety, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Celoria 10, Milan, 20133, Italy. .,Interdepartmental Research Centre for the Study of Biological Effects of Nano-concentrations (CREBION), Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Celoria 10, Milan, 20133, Italy.
| | - Federica Franciosi
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, Department of Health, Animal Science and Food Safety, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Celoria 10, Milan, 20133, Italy.
| | - Giulia Sivelli
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, Department of Health, Animal Science and Food Safety, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Celoria 10, Milan, 20133, Italy.
| | - Laura Terzaghi
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, Department of Health, Animal Science and Food Safety, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Celoria 10, Milan, 20133, Italy.
| | - Valentina Lodde
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, Department of Health, Animal Science and Food Safety, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Celoria 10, Milan, 20133, Italy.
| | - Alberto M Luciano
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, Department of Health, Animal Science and Food Safety, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Celoria 10, Milan, 20133, Italy. .,Interdepartmental Research Centre for the Study of Biological Effects of Nano-concentrations (CREBION), Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Celoria 10, Milan, 20133, Italy.
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Barakat IA, Khalil WK, Al-Himaidi AR. Moringa oleifera extract modulates the expression of fertility related genes and elevation of calcium ions in sheep oocytes. Small Rumin Res 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2015.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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20
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Nunes C, Silva JV, Silva V, Torgal I, Fardilha M. Signalling pathways involved in oocyte growth, acquisition of competence and activation. HUM FERTIL 2015; 18:149-55. [DOI: 10.3109/14647273.2015.1006692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
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21
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Follicle-stimulating hormone receptor polymorphism affects the outcome of ovulation induction in normogonadotropic (World Health Organization class 2) anovulatory subfertility. Fertil Steril 2015; 103:1081-1088.e3. [PMID: 25721191 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2015.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2014] [Revised: 01/02/2015] [Accepted: 01/02/2015] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess whether an FSH receptor polymorphism (Asn680Ser, rs6166) can affect the outcome of ovulation induction in normogonadotropic (World Health Organization class 2 [WHO2]) anovulatory subfertile women. DESIGN Prospective, longitudinal, cohort study. SETTING University-based fertility unit. PATIENT(S) A total of 240 consecutive women diagnosed with WHO2 anovulatory subfertility who underwent ovulation induction therapy. Results were replicated in a retrospective cohort of 185 patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) (Rotterdam criteria). INTERVENTION(S) Ovulation induction using clomiphene citrate (CC) as first-line and exogenous gonadotropins (exFSH) as second-line therapy. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Clomiphene-resistant anovulation (CRA), clomiphene failure (CCF), and ongoing pregnancy rate. RESULT(S) Genotyped patients (n = 159) were similar to nongenotyped women (n = 81) regarding clinical characteristics and outcomes of ovulation induction. The 680(Ser) allele was associated with CRA. A pooled analysis of both cohorts showed an 89% higher chance of CRA after CC treatment (odds ratio 1.9 [95% confidence interval 1.1-3.3]) in homozygous carriers of the FSH receptor variant (680(Ser/Ser)). A lower chance of ongoing pregnancy (hazard ratio 0.51 [95% confidence interval 0.27-0.98]) was observed among these patients during CC treatment in the prospective cohort. CONCLUSION(S) An FSH receptor polymorphism is associated with CRA during treatment with clomiphene citrate. These data may be used to design a treatment algorithm that is more efficacious and better tailored to the individual patient.
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22
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VandeVoort CA, Mtango NR, Midic U, Latham KE. Disruptions in follicle cell functions in the ovaries of rhesus monkeys during summer. Physiol Genomics 2015; 47:102-12. [PMID: 25586978 DOI: 10.1152/physiolgenomics.00092.2014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2014] [Accepted: 01/13/2015] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Oocytes isolated from female rhesus monkeys following standard ovarian stimulation protocols during the summer months displayed a reduced capacity to mature compared with stimulation during the normal breeding season. Because the gene expression profiles of oocyte-associated cumulus cells and mural granulosa cells (CCs and GCs) are indicative of altered oocyte quality and can provide insight into intrafollicular processes that may be disrupted during oogenesis, we performed array-based transcriptome comparisons of CCs and GCs from summer and normal breeding season stimulation cycles. Summer CCs and GCs both display deficiencies in expression of mRNAs related to cell proliferation, angiogenesis, and endocrine signaling, as well as reduced expression of glycogen phosphorylase. Additionally, CCs display deficiencies in expression of mRNAs related to stress response. These results provide the first insight into the specific molecular pathways and processes that are disrupted in the follicles of rhesus macaque females during the summer season. Some of the changes seen in summer GCs and CCs have been reported in humans and in other model mammalian species. This suggests that the seasonal effects seen in the rhesus monkey may help us to understand better the mechanisms that contribute to reduced oocyte quality and fertility in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine A VandeVoort
- California National Primate Research Center, University of California, Davis, California; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of California, Davis, California
| | - Namdori R Mtango
- The Fels Institute for Cancer Research & Molecular Biology, Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; and
| | - Uros Midic
- Department of Animal Science, Reproductive and Developmental Science Program and Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan
| | - Keith E Latham
- Department of Animal Science, Reproductive and Developmental Science Program and Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan
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Xiao X, Zi XD, Niu HR, Xiong XR, Zhong JC, Li J, Wang L, Wang Y. Effect of addition of FSH, LH and proteasome inhibitor MG132 to in vitro maturation medium on the developmental competence of yak (Bos grunniens) oocytes. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2014; 12:30. [PMID: 24754924 PMCID: PMC3998235 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-12-30] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2014] [Accepted: 04/14/2014] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The competence for embryonic development after IVF is low in the yak, therefore, we investigated the effects of supplementation of FSH, LH and the proteasome inhibitor MG132 in IVM media on yak oocyte competence for development after IVF. METHODS In Experiment 1, yak cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) were in vitro matured (IVM) in TCM-199 with 20% fetal calf serum (FCS), 1 microg/mL estradiol-17beta, and different combinations of LH (50 or 100 IU/mL) and FSH (0, 1, 5, 10 microg/mL) at 38.6 degrees C, 5% CO2 in air for 24 h. Matured oocytes were exposed to frozen-thawed, heparin-capacitated yak sperm. Presumptive zygotes were cultured in SOF medium containing 6 mg/ml BSA, 0.5 mg/mL myoinositol, 3% (v/v) essential amino acids, 1% nonessential amino acids and 100 μg/mL L-glutamine (48 h, 38.5 degrees C, 5% CO2, 5% O2, and 90% N2). In Experiment 2, cumulus cells were collected at the end of IVM to determine FSHR and LHR mRNA expression by real-time PCR. In Experiment 3 and 4, COCs were cultured in the presence or absence of the proteasomal inhibitor MG132 from either 0-6 h or 18-24 h after initiation of maturation. RESULTS The optimum concentration of FSH and LH in IVM media was 5 microg/mL FSH and 50 IU/mL LH which resulted in the greatest cleavage (79.1%) and blastocyst rates (16.1%). Both FSHR and LHR mRNA were detected in yak cumulus cells after IVM. Treatment with MG132 early in maturation reduced (P<0.05) cleavage and blastocyst rates. Conversely, treatment with MG132 late in maturation improved (P<0.05) blastocyst rate. Optimal results with MG132 were achieved at a concentration of 10 microM. CONCLUSIONS An optimum concentration of FSH and LH in IVM medium, and treatment with MG132 late in maturation can improve yak oocytes competence for development after IVF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Xiao
- College of Life Science and Technology, Southwest University for Nationalities, Chengdu 610041, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiang-Dong Zi
- College of Life Science and Technology, Southwest University for Nationalities, Chengdu 610041, People’s Republic of China
| | - Hui-Ran Niu
- College of Life Science and Technology, Southwest University for Nationalities, Chengdu 610041, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xian-Rong Xiong
- College of Life Science and Technology, Southwest University for Nationalities, Chengdu 610041, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jin-Cheng Zhong
- College of Tibetan Plateau Research, Southwest University for Nationalities, Chengdu 610041, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jian Li
- College of Tibetan Plateau Research, Southwest University for Nationalities, Chengdu 610041, People’s Republic of China
| | - Li Wang
- College of Life Science and Technology, Southwest University for Nationalities, Chengdu 610041, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yong Wang
- College of Tibetan Plateau Research, Southwest University for Nationalities, Chengdu 610041, People’s Republic of China
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Assidi M, Richard FJ, Sirard MA. FSH in vitro versus LH in vivo: similar genomic effects on the cumulus. J Ovarian Res 2013; 6:68. [PMID: 24066945 PMCID: PMC3852229 DOI: 10.1186/1757-2215-6-68] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2013] [Accepted: 09/17/2013] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The use of gonadotropins to trigger oocyte maturation both in vivo and in vitro has provided precious and powerful knowledge that has significantly increased our understanding of the ovarian function. Moreover, the efficacy of most assisted reproductive technologies (ART) used in both humans and livestock species relies on gonadotropin input, mainly FSH and LH. Despite the significant progress achieved and the huge impact of gonadotropins, the exact molecular pathways of the two pituitary hormones, FSH and LH, still remain poorly understood. Moreover, these pathways may not be the same when moving from the in vivo to the in vitro context. This misunderstanding of the intricate synergy between these two hormones leads to a lack of consensus about their use mainly in vitro or in ovulation induction schedules in vivo. In order to optimize their use, additional work is thus required with a special focus on comparing the in vitro versus the in vivo effects. In this context, this overview will briefly summarize the downstream gene expression pathways induced by both FSH in vitro and LH in vivo in the cumulus compartment. Based on recent microarray comparative analysis, we are reporting that in vitro FSH stimulation on cumulus cells appears to achieve at least part of the gene expression activity after in vivo LH stimulation. We are then proposing that the in vitro FSH-response of cumulus cells have similitudes with the in vivo LH-response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mourad Assidi
- Département des Sciences Animales, Faculté de l'Agriculture et de l'Alimentation, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1K 7P4, Canada.
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25
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Mito T, Yoshioka K, Noguchi M, Yamashita S, Hoshi H. Recombinant human follicle-stimulating hormone and transforming growth factor-alpha enhance in vitro maturation of porcine oocytes. Mol Reprod Dev 2013; 80:549-60. [PMID: 23661505 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.22190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2013] [Accepted: 05/02/2013] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
The biological functions of recombinant human follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and transforming growth factor-α (TGF-α) on in vitro maturation of porcine oocytes were investigated. Cumulus-oocyte complexes were matured in defined porcine oocyte medium containing 0-0.1 IU/ml FSH in the presence or absence of 10 ng/ml TGF-α. The percentage of oocytes reaching metaphase II was significantly higher with the addition of 0.01-0.1 IU/ml FSH compared with no addition, and was further enhanced in the presence of TGF-α. The rates of sperm penetration and blastocyst formation were significantly higher with the addition of 0.05-0.1 IU/ml FSH compared with no addition after in vitro fertilization and embryo culture. There was no beneficial effect of FSH and TGF-α on nuclear maturation of denuded oocytes. The specific EGF receptor inhibitor, AG1478, completely inhibited TGF-α-induced meiotic resumption, but did not completely prevent the stimulatory effect of FSH. Addition of both FSH and TGF-α significantly enhanced cumulus expansion compared with no addition. When cumulus expansion-related genes (HAS2, HAPLN1, and VCAN) mRNA expression in COCs was measured during in vitro maturaiton, addition of both of FSH and TGF-α upregulated the expression of HAS2 mRNA after 20 hr culture and HAPLN1 mRNA after 44 hr culture compared with no addition. Expression of VCAN mRNA was significantly higher in the presence of FSH compared with addition of TGF-α alone. These results suggest that FSH and TGF-α synergistically enhance porcine oocyte maturation via cumulus cells, and act through different signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomomi Mito
- Research Institute for the Functional Peptides, Yamagata, Japan
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Hobbs RJ, Howard J, Wildt DE, Comizzoli P. Absence of seasonal changes in FSHR gene expression in the cat cumulus-oocyte complex in vivo and in vitro. Reproduction 2012; 144:111-22. [PMID: 22596062 DOI: 10.1530/rep-12-0098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Domestic cat oocytes are seasonally sensitive to FSH. Compared with those collected during the breeding season, oocytes from the nonbreeding (NB) season require more FSH during in vitro maturation to achieve comparable developmental competence. This study tested the hypothesis that this seasonal variation was due to altered expression of FSH receptors (FSHR) and/or FSH-induced genes. Relative expression levels of FSHR mRNA and FSH-enhanced gene estrogen receptor β (ESR2) were measured by qPCR in whole ovaries and immature cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) isolated from cat ovaries during the natural breeding vs NB seasons. Expression levels of FSH-induced genes prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 2 (PTGS2), early growth response protein-1 (EGR1), and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) were examined in mature COCs from both seasons that were a) recovered in vivo or b) matured in vitro with conventional (1 μg/ml) or high (10 μg/ml) FSH concentrations. Overall, FSHR mRNA levels were lower in whole ovaries during the NB compared with breeding season but were similar in immature COCs, whereas ESR2 levels did not differ in either group between intervals. We observed changes in PTGS2, EGR1, and EGFR mRNA expression patterns across maturation in COCs within but not between the two seasons. The lack of seasonal differentiation in FSH-related genes was not consistent with the decreased developmental capacity of oocytes fertilized during the NB season. These findings reveal that the seasonal decrease in cat oocyte sensitivity to FSH occurs both in vivo and in vitro. Furthermore, this decline is unrelated to changes in expression of FSHR mRNA or mRNA of FSH-induced genes in COCs from antral follicles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca J Hobbs
- Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, Center for Species Survival, National Zoological Park, PO Box 37012, MRC 5502, Washington, District of Columbia 20013, USA.
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Silvestre F, Fissore RA, Tosti E, Boni R. [Ca2+
]i
rise at in vitro maturation in bovine cumulus-oocyte complexes. Mol Reprod Dev 2012; 79:369-79. [DOI: 10.1002/mrd.22038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2011] [Accepted: 03/07/2012] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
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Seekallu SV, Toosi BM, Grazul-Bilska AT, Rawlings NC. Markers of ovarian antral follicular development in sheep: comparison of follicles destined to ovulate from the final or penultimate follicular wave of the estrous cycle. Reproduction 2010; 140:559-68. [DOI: 10.1530/rep-10-0064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Treatment of non-prolific western white-faced ewes with prostaglandin F2α(PGF2α) and medroxyprogesterone acetate (MAP) increases the ovulation rate as a result of ovulations from the penultimate wave in addition to the final wave of the cycle. The objective of the current study was to evaluate the expression of markers of vascularization/angiogenesis, a marker of intercellular communication, and cellular proliferation and apoptosis in follicles from the penultimate and final waves. On day 8 of the estrous cycle, 15 ewes were administered a single injection of PGF2αand an intravaginal MAP sponge, which remained in place for 6 days. Two days after sponge removal, ovaries which contained follicles from the penultimate and final waves were collected and processed for immunohistochemistry followed by image analysis, and for quantitative real-time RT-PCR. Expression of factor VIII (marker of vascularization), proliferating cell nuclear antigen, andGJA1(Cx43; marker of gap junctional communication) was greater (P<0.05) in follicles from the final wave compared with follicles from the penultimate wave. For theca cells, mRNA expression for vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) was greater (P<0.05) and tended to be greater (P≤0.1 and ≥0.05) forGJA1and endothelial nitric oxide synthase in follicles from the final wave compared with follicles from the penultimate wave. For granulosa cells, the mRNA expression forGJA1was greater (P<0.05) and tended to be greater (P≤0.1 and ≥0.05) forVEGFin follicles from the final wave compared with follicles from the penultimate wave. In conclusion, extension of the lifespan of follicles in the penultimate wave reduces follicular viability in the ewe.
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Effect of FSH and LH hormones on oocyte maturation of buffalo and gene expression analysis of their receptors and Cx43 in maturing oocytes. ZYGOTE 2010; 18:231-4. [DOI: 10.1017/s096719940999030x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
SummaryFollicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) are commonly added to maturation media to improve cumulus expansion known to be a predictor of oocyte maturation. Therefore, effects of various concentrations of FSH (1000 ng/ml), LH (1000 ng/ml) and FSH + LH (1000 ng/ml each) in comparison with control (without FSH + LH) cultured oocytes were investigated. FSH and LH (1000 ng/ml each) induced significantly more cumulus expansion and polar body numbers, as compared with control and treatments of 1000 ng/ml FSH and 1000 ng/ml LH alone. Expression of FSH receptor (r), LHr and Cx43 mRNAs was determined by real-time PCR in cumulus–oocyte complexes (COCs) and denuded oocytes at different maturation times. Expression of all three genes was higher in COCs compared with denuded oocytes, confirming the importance of cumulus cells in oocyte maturation. FSHr and connexin 43 (Cx43) mRNA abundance in both COCs and denuded oocytes was highest at 0–6 h of maturation and decreased subsequently. However, LHr mRNA abundance increased from 6 h up to 24 h of maturation. The study concluded that FSH, LH receptors and Cx43 gene expression regulation is an index related to oocyte maturation.
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Caixeta ES, Ripamonte P, Franco MM, Junior JB, Dode MAN. Effect of follicle size on mRNA expression in cumulus cells and oocytes of Bos indicus: an approach to identify marker genes for developmental competence. Reprod Fertil Dev 2009; 21:655-64. [PMID: 19486602 DOI: 10.1071/rd08201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2008] [Accepted: 03/08/2009] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
To identify the genes related to oocyte competence, we quantified transcripts for candidate genes in oocytes (H1Foo, H2A, H3A, GHR, GDF9, BMP15, OOSP1) and cumulus cells (FSHR, EGFR, GHR, PTX3, IGFII) using the follicle size model to select oocytes of better developmental quality. Follicles were dissected and distributed into four groups according to diameter as follows: 1.0-3.0, 3.1-6.0, 6.1-8.0 and >or=8.1 mm. Cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) were released, classified morphologically, matured, fertilised and cultured in vitro or denuded for measurement of diameter and determination of gene expression. Denuded germinal vesicle oocytes and their cumulus cells were used for gene expression analysis by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. The blastocyst rate was highest for oocytes recovered from follicles>6 mm in diameter. In the oocyte, expression of the H2A transcript only increased gradually according to follicle size, being greater (P<0.05) in oocytes from follicles>or=8.1 mm in diameter than in oocytes from follicles<6.0 mm in diameter. In cumulus cells, expression of FSHR, EGFR and GHR mRNA increased with follicular size. In conclusion, we confirmed the importance of H2A for developmental competence and identified important genes in cumulus cells that may be associated with oocyte competence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ester Siqueira Caixeta
- Faculdade de Agronomia e Veterinária, Ciências Animais, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, DF 70910-970, Brazil
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Improvement of in vitro oocyte maturation with lectin supplementation and expression analysis of Cx43, GDF-9, FGF-4 and Fibronectin mRNA transcripts in Buffalo (Bubalus bubalis). J Assist Reprod Genet 2009; 26:365-71. [PMID: 19629675 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-009-9314-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2008] [Accepted: 05/18/2009] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To optimize In vitro maturation (IVM) of quality oocytes for embryo production through IVF and SCNT. METHODS Buffalo oocytes were in vitro matured in the presence of the pokeweed lectin (Phytolacca americana), a potent lymphocyte mitogen. Lectin was supplemented in TCM + 10% FBS at the doses of 0, 1, 5, 10, 15, 20 and 40 microg/ml and cumulus expansion and gene expression patterns were characterized. RESULTS The degree of cumulus expansion in different lectin treatment levels improved from 1.1 at 1 Ag/ml level to 3.60 at 10 microg/ml level and then decreased in higher concentration 20 microg/ml (1.66) and 40 microg/ml (0.64). IVF embryos showed highest cleavage rate (88.8%) in 10 microg/ml lectin treatment. Expression of all mRNA transcript studied (Cx43, GDF 9, FGF-4 and Fibronectin) was positively correlated with cumulus expansion and polar body extrusion. CONCLUSIONS Mitogenic lectin supplemented maturation media improves oocyte quality for in vitro embryo production.
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Biological and immunological characteristics of porcine follicle-stimulating hormone chemically modified with a polyethylene glycol derivative. Vet J 2009; 184:208-11. [PMID: 19285885 DOI: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2009.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2008] [Revised: 01/27/2009] [Accepted: 02/03/2009] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Porcine follicle-stimulating hormone (pFSH) was chemically modified with a polyethylene glycol (PEG) derivative to form PEGylated pFSH. The hormone was conjugated with a succinimidyl ester of methoxy PEG propionic acid (mPEG-SPA) at stoichiometric molar ratios of 1:0, 1:1, 1:3, 1:10, 1:30 and 1:100. The molecular weight of PEGylated pFSH increased depending on the stoichiometry of the conjugation reaction. Western blot analysis revealed a multifarious ladder-pattern of PEGylated pFSH with apparent molecular weights of 31, 44, 66, 90 and 115 kDa. Differences between the immunopositive bands mostly coincided with the multiple of 5000 that was the molecular size of mPEG-SPA. PEGylated pFSH was biologically active and capable of stimulating both proliferation of and progesterone secretion by cultured bovine cumulus cells. PEGylated pFSH did not react with antibody against bovine FSH in a binding assay. The results indicate that PEGylated pFSH is still bioactive although this activity is reduced and the elimination of immunoreactivity by PEGylation suggests this modification may have merit in creating a product useful in inducing bovine superovulation.
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Ferreira E, Vireque A, Adona P, Meirelles F, Ferriani R, Navarro P. Cytoplasmic maturation of bovine oocytes: Structural and biochemical modifications and acquisition of developmental competence. Theriogenology 2009; 71:836-48. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2008.10.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 190] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2008] [Revised: 10/14/2008] [Accepted: 10/19/2008] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Paracrine factors from cumulus-enclosed oocytes ensure the successful maturation and fertilization in vitro of denuded oocytes in the cat model. Fertil Steril 2008; 91:2051-60. [PMID: 18692794 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2008.05.069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2008] [Revised: 05/13/2008] [Accepted: 05/16/2008] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To better characterize cumulus-oocyte interactions during oocyte maturation and fertilization in the cat model. DESIGN Experimental in vitro study. SETTING Smithsonian Institution. ANIMAL(S) Domestic shorthair cats. INTERVENTION(S) Groups of denuded oocytes (DOs) and cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) were subjected to in vitro maturation (with or without FSH and LH, with or without the gap junction disruptor 1-heptanol, in separated groups or in coculture) and inseminated in vitro (IVF; in separated groups or in coculture). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Nuclear maturation, pronuclear formation, kinetics of early embryo cleavage, and blastocyst formation and quality after different in vitro conditions were compared between DOs cultured separately and DOs cocultured with COCs. RESULT(S) Without FSH and LH, the removal of cumulus cells prevented spontaneous meiotic resumption in DOs. With FSH and LH, groups of DOs progressed to the metaphase I stage but fully advanced to metaphase II only in coculture with intact (nondisrupted) COCs. Groups of DOs cultured separately were fertilized poorly and exhibited no blastocyst formation. In contrast, DOs cocultured with intact COCs during in vitro maturation and IVF recovered fertilizability, and approximately 35% formed blastocysts. CONCLUSION(S) Paracrine factors produced by cumulus-enclosed oocytes in the cat model will help to develop synthetic media for successful in vitro culture of DOs.
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Abstract
SummaryRNA-binding proteins (RBP) influence RNA editing, localization, stability and translation and may contribute to oocyte developmental competence by regulating the stability and turnover of oogenetic mRNAs. The expression of Staufen 1 and 2 and ELAVL1, ELAVL2 RNA-binding proteins during cow early development was characterized. Cumulus–oocyte complexes were collected from slaughterhouse ovaries, matured, inseminated and subjected to embryo culturein vitro. Oocyte or preimplantation embryo pools were processed for RT-PCR and whole-mount immunofluorescence analysis of mRNA expression and protein distribution. STAU1 and STAU2 and ELAVL1 mRNAs and proteins were detected throughout cow preimplantation development from the germinal vesicle (GV) oocyte to the blastocyst stage. ELAVL2 mRNAs were detectable from the GV to the morula stage, whereas ELAVL2 protein was in all stages examined and localized to both cytoplasm and nuclei. The findings provide a foundation for investigating the role of RBPs during mammalian oocyte maturation and early embryogenesis.
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Cecconi S, Mauro A, Capacchietti G, Berardinelli P, Bernabò N, Di Vincenzo AR, Mattioli M, Barboni B. Meiotic maturation of incompetent prepubertal sheep oocytes is induced by paracrine factor(s) released by gonadotropin-stimulated oocyte-cumulus cell complexes and involves mitogen-activated protein kinase activation. Endocrinology 2008; 149:100-7. [PMID: 17884935 DOI: 10.1210/en.2007-0874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
In this study, sheep oocyte-cumulus cell complexes (OCC) derived from medium (M) antral follicles (M-OCC) were in vitro matured alone or in coculture with OCC derived from small (S) antral follicles (S-OCC) to investigate the contribution of cumulus cells (CC) and oocytes to the process of oocyte meiotic maturation and cumulus expansion (CE). Experiments were conducted with or without gonadotropins (FSH/LH). Regardless of culture conditions, about 12% of S-oocytes reached the metaphase II stage, and S-CC showed a low degree of CE. In contrast, both maturational processes were significantly stimulated by gonadotropins in M-OCC. However, about 48% of S-oocytes progressed to metaphase II, and S-CC expanded after coculture with gonadotropin-stimulated M-OCC and M-CC but not with mural granulosa cells. Both maturational processes were inhibited when S-OCC were cocultured with M-denuded oocytes, or when S-denuded oocytes were cocultured with M-CC. The capacity of these paracrine factor(s) to activate the MAPK pathway in somatic and germ cells of S-complexes was investigated. It was found that MAPK kinase/MAPK phosphorylation levels in M-OCC but not in S-OCC were significantly increased by gonadotropins, first in CC and later in the oocytes. Kinase phosphorylations were activated only in S-oocytes cocultured with M-OCC or M-CC. These results demonstrate that soluble factors specifically produced by M-CC are capable to induce meiotic maturation and CE in S-complexes by acting via CC. These factors can induce MAPK activation only in S-oocytes, whose meiotic arrest could be due to the inability of surrounding CC to respond to gonadotropin stimulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Cecconi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Technologies, University of L'Aquila, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy.
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Tong GQ, Heng BC, Ng SC. Cumulus-specific genes are transcriptionally silent following somatic cell nuclear transfer in a mouse model. J Zhejiang Univ Sci B 2007; 8:533-9. [PMID: 17657853 PMCID: PMC1934946 DOI: 10.1631/jzus.2007.b0533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
This study investigated whether four cumulus-specific genes: follicular stimulating hormone receptor (FSHr), hyaluronan synthase 2 (Has2), prostaglandin synthase 2 (Ptgs2) and steroidogenic acute regulator protein (Star), were correctly reprogrammed to be transcriptionally silent following somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) in a murine model. Cumulus cells of C57xCBA F1 female mouse were injected into enucleated oocytes, followed by activation in 10 micromol/L strontium chloride for 5 h and subsequent in vitro culture up to the blastocyst stage. Expression of cumulus-specific genes in SCNT-derived embryos at 2-cell, 4-cell and day 4.5 blastocyst stages was compared with corresponding in vivo fertilized embryos by real-time PCR. It was demonstrated that immediately after the first cell cycle, SCNT-derived 2-cell stage embryos did not express all four cumulus-specific genes, which continually remained silent at the 4-cell and blastocyst stages. It is therefore concluded that all four cumulus-specific genes were correctly reprogrammed to be silent following nuclear transfer with cumulus donor cells in the mouse model. This would imply that the poor preimplantation developmental competence of SCNT embryos derived from cumulus cells is due to incomplete reprogramming of other embryonic genes, rather than cumulus-specific genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guo-qing Tong
- Nuclear Reprogramming and Stem Cell Laboratory, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 119074 Singapore
- Stem Cell and Developmental Biology Group, Genome Institute of Singapore, 138672 Singapore
| | - Boon-chin Heng
- Nuclear Reprogramming and Stem Cell Laboratory, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 119074 Singapore
- Stem Cell Laboratory, Faculty of Dentistry, National University of Singapore, 119074 Singapore
- †E-mail:
| | - Soon-chye Ng
- Nuclear Reprogramming and Stem Cell Laboratory, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 119074 Singapore
- Embryonics International Pte Ltd., Gleneagles Hospital, 258500 Singapore
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Sirard MA, Desrosier S, Assidi M. In vivo and in vitro effects of FSH on oocyte maturation and developmental competence. Theriogenology 2007; 68 Suppl 1:S71-6. [PMID: 17588652 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2007.05.053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
There is increasing evidence demonstrating that oocyte quality depends on the events that occur before germinal vesicle breakdown (GVBD), suggesting that the oocyte must accumulate the appropriate information for meiotic resumption fertilization and early embryonic development before chromosome condensation. This situation seems to prevail in large mammals and particularly in the bovine where we have more information than in other species. Signaling events at two different levels controls the changes that must take place for follicular growth and attainment of oocyte developmental competence. The first signaling event comes from the proper differentiation of the follicle as it normally occurs in the dominant follicle in preparation for ovulation. The second signaling event occurs as the process of follicle differentiation signals directly to the oocyte, possibly through the cumulus cells, that conditions are suitable for further embryo development. The first signal, follicular differentiation, becomes possible though a rise and fall of FSH in the circulation, while the second signal might be mimicked partially by the same hormone acting on the cumulus cells. Although FSH is likely involved in these two signaling events, the processes involved are quite different and analysis of gene expression in granulosa, cumulus and oocyte is starting to reveal the complexity of this system. The next challenge is to combine these two pathways into a functional signaling cascade. To be successful and obtain meaningful information, these genomic analyses must be developed and performed in precisely defined conditions of follicular growth and differentiation or culture conditions. Functional genomics already started with the study of function of several genes and genes families in the regulation of follicular growth and follicle-oocyte co-differentiation (i.e. IGF and BMP genes families, EGF).
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Affiliation(s)
- M-A Sirard
- Centre de Recherche en Biologie de la Reproduction, Department of Animal Sciences, Laval University, Pav. Comtois, Sainte-Foy, Québec, Canada G1K 7P4.
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Silvestre MA, Alfonso J, García-Mengual E, Salvador I, Duque CC, Molina I. Effect of recombinant human follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone on in vitro maturation of porcine oocytes evaluated by the subsequent in vitro development of embryos obtained by in vitro fertilization, intracytoplasmic sperm injection, or parthenogenetic activation1. J Anim Sci 2007. [DOI: 10.2527/jas.2006-645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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Jurema MW, Nogueira D. In vitro maturation of human oocytes for assisted reproduction. Fertil Steril 2006; 86:1277-91. [PMID: 16996508 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2006.02.126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2005] [Revised: 02/21/2006] [Accepted: 02/21/2006] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe and evaluate the current practice of in vitro maturation of oocytes for assisted reproduction. DESIGN Review of the available and relevant literature regarding in vitro maturation of oocytes. CONCLUSION(S) In vitro maturation of human oocytes retrieved from antral ovarian follicles is an emerging procedure quickly being incorporated into the realm of assisted reproductive technologies. This new technology has several potential advantages over traditional controlled ovarian hyperstimulation for IVF, such as reduction of costs by minimizing gonadotropin and GnRH analogue use, elimination of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, and simplicity of protocol. In vitro maturation of oocytes for assisted reproduction in human beings still is undergoing refinement but currently is providing efficacy and safety outcome comparable to that of traditional IVF in recent selected studies. Implementing in vitro maturation into an established IVF practice is feasible and requires only a few simple adjustments. Crucial to the advancement and optimization of the technology is a better understanding of how to maximize immature oocyte developmental competence and endometrial receptivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcus W Jurema
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Women and Infants' Hospital, Brown University Medical School, Providence, Rhode Island 02905, USA.
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Modina S, Abbate F, Germanà GP, Lauria A, Luciano AM. Beta-catenin localization and timing of early development of bovine embryos obtained from oocytes matured in the presence of follicle stimulating hormone. Anim Reprod Sci 2006; 100:264-79. [PMID: 16956737 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2006.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2006] [Revised: 04/29/2006] [Accepted: 07/20/2006] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
In mammalian species, embryos which grow more rapidly are believed to be more competent and viable than they are slower developing counterparts. Although the most important decrease in development occurs between the zygote and blastocyst stages, there is a growing amount of evidence to suggest that maturation conditions and oocyte quality have a profound influence on the developmental potential of early mammalian embryos. Gene transcripts and polypeptides stored in the oocytes, such as junctional proteins, sustain the initial development of embryos. In the present study we demonstrated a relationship between the timing of the development of in vitro-produced bovine embryos and the distribution and localization of the junctional protein beta-catenin. We further demonstrated that the presence of FSH during IVM supports cleavage and the blastocyst rate, and also has a positive effect on the speed of development, since embryos obtained from oocytes matured with the gonadotropin and observed on days 4, 5 and 6 post-insemination (p.i.) grew faster than those matured in a medium supplemented with BSA. Moreover, the majority of embryos which developed past the 16-cell stage showed a proper distribution of beta-catenin just beneath the membrane surfaces of all blastomeres and an appropriate morphology, as confirmed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis. In conclusion, our data suggest that supplementing FSH during in vitro maturation aids the development of bovine embryos and promotes the correct expression of beta-catenin, increasing the likelihood that embryos will develop to the blastocyst stage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Modina
- Institute of Anatomy of Domestic Animals, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Milan, Via Celoria, 10, 20133 Milano, Italy.
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Russell DF, Baqir S, Bordignon J, Betts DH. The impact of oocyte maturation media on early bovine embryonic development. Mol Reprod Dev 2006; 73:1255-70. [PMID: 16865717 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.20553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Successful production of high quality blastocysts in vitro depends on the use of a culture system that ensures the acquisition of developmental competence by the maturing oocyte. It is now clear that the in vitro maturation environment has a major influence on the oocyte's ability to acquire the potential to develop into blastocysts. In this work we examine the impact of oocyte culture media on the quality of blastocysts by comparing developmental rates, cell number and their allocation to embryonic cell lineages, apoptosis, and expression of developmentally important genes. Higher total cell count and ICM:TCN ratio, which are indicative of embryo viability, were observed in embryos derived from oocyte maturation in TCM-199 supplemented with serum when compared to blastocysts derived from oocyte maturation in SOF BSA. Moreover, oocyte maturation in TCM-199 supplemented with serum-generated embryos of higher morphological quality and producing higher levels of Interferon Tau transcripts when compared to embryos derived from oocyte maturation in SOF BSA. In conclusion, the oocyte maturation regimen affected the morphological feature of blastocysts, including total cell count and allocation of cells to trophectoderm (TE) and inner cell mass (ICM) lineages and the expression profiles of genes involved in various embryo functions such as early embryonic growth, regulation of gene transcription, trophoblast differentiation and function, embryo-maternal communication, and stress response. Our results show that the oocyte culture media have strong impact on the quality of embryos produced in vitro and emphasize the need for more in depth evaluation of oocyte maturation protocols.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Fischer Russell
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, OVC, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
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Hidalgo C, Díez C, Duque P, Prendes JM, Rodríguez A, Goyache F, Fernández I, Facal N, Ikeda S, Alonso-Montes C, Gómez E. Oocytes recovered from cows treated with retinol become unviable as blastocysts produced in vitro. Reproduction 2005; 129:411-21. [PMID: 15798016 DOI: 10.1530/rep.1.00548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Retinoids have been shown to enhance developmental competence of the oocyte in cattle, sheep and pigs. In this study we investigated whether exogenous retinol stimulates the bovine oocyte during its intrafollicular growth and the time limits of exposure to exogenous retinol. In addition, we also determined the efficiency of ovum pick-up techniques in combination with retinol treatment and the viability of embryos after transfer to recipients. In Experiment 1, heifers were injected with retinol or vehicle, and concentrations of retinol in the blood were analysed on Day 0 (prior to injection), Day 1 and, together with follicular fluid, Day 4. Blood retinol increased by Day 1 and cleared on Day 4, but retinol remained higher within the follicle. In Experiment 2, oocyte donors were injected weekly with retinol or vehicle four times during a twice-per-week cycle of eight recovery sessions (starting 4 days before the first session), followed by a second eight-session cycle without treatment. Oocytes recovered were fertilized and culturedin vitro.Retinol treatment yielded higher numbers of low-quality oocytes throughout, although retinol measured during cycles did not change. Total oocytes, and morulae and blastocyst rates, increased during the first five sessions following treatment with retinol. As previously shown with oocytes from slaughterhouse ovaries, retinoic acid stimulated blastocyst development. Following transfer to recipients, blastocysts from oocytes exposed to retinol were unable to establish pregnancy. Our study confirms the existence of an effect of retinol on the intrafollicular oocyte in the cow and provides evidence regarding the teratogenic effect of retinol.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Hidalgo
- Area de Selección y Reproducción Animal (SERIDA), Servicio Regional de Investigación y Desarrollo Agroalimentario (SERIDA), Camino de los Claveles, Gijón, Asturias, Spain
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Calder MD, Caveney AN, Sirard MA, Watson AJ. Effect of serum and cumulus cell expansion on marker gene transcripts in bovine cumulus-oocyte complexes during maturation in vitro. Fertil Steril 2005; 83 Suppl 1:1077-85. [PMID: 15831278 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2004.12.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2004] [Revised: 08/23/2004] [Accepted: 08/23/2004] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the distribution of transcripts encoding the FSH receptor (FSHr), LH receptor (LHr), connexin 43 (Cx43), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), and prostaglandin E(2) receptors 2 and 3 (EP2 and EP3) within bovine cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) and denuded oocytes and investigate the influence of gonadotropins, serum, and cumulus cell expansion on the abundance of transcripts encoding these genes. DESIGN Prospective controlled animal study. SETTING University research laboratory. PATIENT(S) Animal models for human studies. INTERVENTION(S) Cumulus-oocyte complexes were treated in culture with serum and gonadotropin-supplemented media to examine the effects to mRNA transcript levels. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Variation in mRNA transcript levels. RESULT(S) Luteinizing hormone receptor, FSHr, and EP3 mRNAs were detected in intact COCs and not in cumulus cell-denuded oocytes, whereas Cx43, COX-2, and EP2 mRNAs were found in both COCs and oocytes. The relative abundance of marker gene mRNAs did not vary in media containing no additives or FSH alone, independent of whether the media induced cumulus cell expansion. However, the presence of serum in maturation media significantly decreased expression of all mRNAs except LHr. CONCLUSION(S) The relative abundance of COC mRNAs is altered by serum in the maturation medium, which may signify long-term consequences for embryonic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele D Calder
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada.
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