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Kussano NR, Franco MM, Dode MAN. Biochemical profiling of the follicular environment to predict oocyte competence in cattle. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0298316. [PMID: 38466703 PMCID: PMC10927144 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0298316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024] Open
Abstract
To identify markers of oocyte competence, we compared the biochemical characteristics of fluid and cells from follicles containing oocytes with different capacities to form an embryo. Follicles (5-6 mm) were dissected, and follicular fluid (FF), granulosa cells (GC), cumulus cells (CC) from immature and mature cumulus-oocyte-complexes (COC) were individually collected. The oocytes were matured, fertilized, and cultured individually until day 8 (D8) of development. On D8, the samples were grouped according to embryo production into those that gave rise to blastocysts (EMB) and those that did not reach the blastocyst stage (NEMB). In CCs from immature and mature COCs and GCs, expression of CASP3, SERPINE2, VCAN, LUM, FSHR, EGFR, PGR, and GHR genes was quantified. Cell-free DNA (cfDNA), progesterone, and estradiol concentrations in the FF were determined. Data were analyzed by Mann-Whitney U test (GraphPad Prism 9). GHR was highly expressed in immature CCs from the EMB group, whereas CASP3 was highly expressed in mature CCs from the NEMB group (P<0.05). During maturation, the expression of CASP3 and GHR genes increased only in the NEMB group. ART2 cfDNA was highly detected in FF of the NEMB compared to the EMB group. Progesterone concentration was similar between the groups, whereas estradiol concentration was higher (P<0.05) in the EMB than in the NEMB group. It was concluded that a higher level of GHR transcripts in immature CCs, lower CASP3 expression in CCs from matured COCs, lower levels of ART2, and higher estradiol concentrations in FF may indicate oocytes with greater potential for development.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mauricio Machaim Franco
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasília-DF, Brazil
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Uberlândia, Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil
- Institute of Biotechnology, Federal University of Uberlândia, Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Margot Alves Nunes Dode
- Institute of Biology, University of Brasilia, Brasília-DF, Brazil
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasília-DF, Brazil
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2
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Rehman R, Azhar A, Naseem Z, Haider G, Farooqui N, Farhat S. PCOS model: Apoptotic changes and role of vitamin D. ELECTRONIC JOURNAL OF GENERAL MEDICINE 2022. [DOI: 10.29333/ejgm/12275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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3
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Sayutti N, Abu MA, Ahmad MF. PCOS and Role of Cumulus Gene Expression in Assessing Oocytes Quality. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:843867. [PMID: 35721714 PMCID: PMC9204264 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.843867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The global infertility rate has been declining from year to year. PCOS is one of the treatable accountable causes contributing to anovulatory infertility. Nevertheless, the success rate of treatments and live-birth outcomes especially involving assisted reproductive techniques is still not very promising. There is a reduction in the development potential of oocytes and high-quality embryos in PCOS patients compared to non-PCOS patients. A critical step in IVF treatment is the assessment of oocyte and embryo competence before embryo transfer. Oocytes in metaphase II are very fragile. Repeated morphological assessment on these oocytes may directly impair the quality and affect the whole process. Identification of potential biomarkers especially in the cumulus cells oocytes complex will help to predict the outcome and may create space for improvement. This review has explored gene expression in cumulus cells with regards to oocytes quality in both normal and PCOS women. The gene expression was classified according to their physiological function such as the contribution on cumulus expansion, cumulus cells apoptosis, and glucose metabolism. Collectively, the review suggested that positive expression of HAS2, PTX3, GREM1, and VCAN may correlate with good quality oocytes and can be used as an indicator among PCOS women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nurainie Sayutti
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, National University of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- *Correspondence: Nurainie Sayutti,
| | - Muhammad Azrai Abu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, National University of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Reproductive Centre, Hospital Chancellor Tuanku Muhriz, National University of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Mohd Faizal Ahmad
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, National University of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Reproductive Centre, Hospital Chancellor Tuanku Muhriz, National University of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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4
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Baratas A, Gosálvez J, de la Casa M, Camacho S, Dorado-Silva M, Johnston SD, Roy R. Cumulus Cell DNA Damage as an Index of Human Oocyte Competence. Reprod Sci 2021; 29:3194-3200. [PMID: 34907517 PMCID: PMC9646542 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-021-00817-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The determination of oocyte quality is crucial for achieving effective syngamy post-sperm injection and embryonic development. Cumulus cells (CCs) have been proposed as biomarkers of oocyte quality because of their close bio-dynamic relationship with the oocyte. To determine the quality of the oocyte, CCs were sampled during oocyte preparation for ICSI to determine a CC DNA fragmentation index (CCDFI) of each individual oocyte using a variant of the chromatin dispersion test. One hundred and thirty oocytes were selected and studied from two Spanish fertility clinics, 90 of which were fertilized and developed to embryos. Significant differences were found between the CCDFI of unfertilized and fertilized oocytes (p < .001) and between the CCDFI of embryos that were discarded and those that developed suitable for transfer or cryopreservation (p < .001). Oocyte quality was negatively correlated with CCDFI (Spearman’s rho = − 0.45; p < .001). Receiver operator characteristics curves (ROC) suggested that a cut-off value of 24% CCDFI was able to discriminate the capacity of the gametes to result in syngamy with a sensitivity and specificity of 75.6% and 65%, respectively. This cut-off supports the application of CCDFI as potential index for the evaluation of the reproductive potential of oocytes prior to fertilization.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jaime Gosálvez
- Biology Department, Autonomous University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | | | - Stephen D Johnston
- School of Agriculture and Food Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Rosa Roy
- Biology Department, Autonomous University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain.
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5
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Kumar S, Singh MK, Chauhan MS. Expression of the developmental important candidate genes in oocytes, embryos, embryonic stem cells, cumulus cells, and fibroblast cells of buffalo (Bubalus bubalis). Gene Expr Patterns 2021; 41:119200. [PMID: 34329769 DOI: 10.1016/j.gep.2021.119200] [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: 02/11/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
The present study was undertaken to study the expression of the developmental important gene transcripts in immature oocytes, mature oocytes, different stages of IVF produced embryos, embryonic stem (ES), cumulus (BCC), fetal fibroblast (BFF), newborn fibroblast (NBF) and adult fibroblast (BAF) cells of buffalo by semi-quantitative RT-PCR. The expression of GLUT1, HSP70.1, POL A Polymerase, GDF9, BMP15, and SURVIVIN transcripts was found in immature oocytes, mature oocytes, 2-cell, 4-cell, 8-16 cell, morula, and the blastocyst. Interestingly, the CX43 expression was found in oocytes, embryos, and other cell types, but it was not detected in the blastocyst. However, the IFNT expression was found in the blastocyst only, but not in other cells. The buffalo ES cells showed the expression of intracellular and cell surface markers (NANOG, OCT4, SOX2, FOXD3, SSEA-3, SSEA-4, TRA-1-60, and TRA-1-81) and alkaline phosphatase activity. Two ES cell lines (S-line and M-line-II) were continued to survive up to 98th passages (~630 days) and 97th passages (~624 days), respectively. It was interesting to note that GLUT1, CX43, HSP70.1, POL A Polymerase, GDF9, BMP15, and SURVIVIN transcripts (except the IFNT) were expressed in buffalo ES, BCC, BFF, NBF and BAF cells. This is the first preliminary report that the buffalo ES, BCC, BFF, NBF, and BAF cells expressed the several developmental important candidate genes. It is concluded that the expression of the major developmental important genes was not only expressed in the oocytes and embryos but also expressed in the ES, BCC, BFF, NBF, and BAF cells of buffalo.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Kumar
- Animal Biotechnology Centre, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, 132001, Haryana, India.
| | - M K Singh
- Animal Biotechnology Centre, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, 132001, Haryana, India.
| | - M S Chauhan
- Animal Biotechnology Centre, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, 132001, Haryana, India.
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Azizollahi S, Bagheri M, Haghollahi F, Mohammadi SM, Hossein Rashidi B. Clinical and Molecular Effects of GnRH Agonist and Antagonist on The Cumulus Cells in The In Vitro Fertilization Cycle. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF FERTILITY & STERILITY 2021; 15:202-209. [PMID: 34155867 PMCID: PMC8233926 DOI: 10.22074/ijfs.2020.136161.1012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2020] [Accepted: 12/05/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Background: Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) analogues have been extensively utilized in the ovarian stimulation
cycle for suppression of endogenous rapid enhancement of luteinizing hormone (LH surge).
Exclusive properties and functional mechanisms of GnRH analogues in in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycles are clearly described. This study was performed to evaluate clinical and molecular impacts of the GnRH agonist and antagonist protocols in IVF cycles.
For This purpose, gene expression of cumulus cells (CCs) as well as clinical and embryological parameters were evaluated and compared between two groups (GnRH agonistand antagonist) during the IVF cycle.
Materials and Methods: Twenty-one infertile individuals were enrolled in this study. Subjects were
selected from two groups of GnRH agonist(n=10) treated patients and GnRH
antagonist (n=11) treated individuals. The defined clinical embryological parameters were compared between the
two groups. Expression of BAX, BCL-2, SURVIVIN, ALCAM, and VCAN genes were assessed in the CCs of the
participants using the real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique. Results: The mean number of cumulus oocyte complex (COC), percentage of metaphase II (MII) oocytes, grade A
embryo and clinical parameters did not show noticeable differences between the two groups. BAX gene expression in
the CCs of the group treated with GnRH agonist was remarkably higher than those received GnRH antagonist treatment (P<0.001). The mRNA expression of BCL-2 and ALCM genes were considerably greater in the CCs of patients
who underwent antagonist protocol in comparison to the group that received agonist protocol (P<0.001). Conclusion: Despite no considerable difference in the oocyte quality, embryo development, and clinical outcomes between the group treated with GnRH agonist and the one treated with antagonist protocol, the GnRH antagonist protocol
was slightly more favorable. However, further clinical studies using molecular assessments are required to elucidate
this controversial subject.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saeid Azizollahi
- Vali-e-Asr Reproductive Health Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Cell Therapy and Regenerative Medicine Comprehensive Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Maryam Bagheri
- Vali-e-Asr Reproductive Health Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fedyeh Haghollahi
- Vali-e-Asr Reproductive Health Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyyede Momeneh Mohammadi
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran
| | - Batool Hossein Rashidi
- Vali-e-Asr Reproductive Health Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Miliaraki M, Briassoulis P, Ilia S, Polonifi A, Mantzourani M, Briassouli E, Vardas K, Nanas S, Pistiki A, Theodorakopoulou M, Tavladaki T, Spanaki AM, Kondili E, Dimitriou H, Tsiodras S, Georgopoulos D, Armaganidis A, Daikos G, Briassoulis G. Survivin and caspases serum protein levels and survivin variants mRNA expression in sepsis. Sci Rep 2021; 11:1049. [PMID: 33441606 PMCID: PMC7806640 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-78208-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Sepsis is a dysregulated host response to infection related to devastating outcomes. Recently, interest has been shifted towards apoptotic and antiapoptotic pathobiology. Apoptosis is executed through the activation of caspases regulated by a number of antiapoptotic proteins, such as survivin. The survivin and caspases’ responses to sepsis have not yet been elucidated. This is a multicenter prospective observational study concerning patients with sepsis (n = 107) compared to patients with traumatic systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) (n = 75) and to healthy controls (n = 89). The expression of survivin was quantified through real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction for the different survivin splice variants (wild type-WT, ΔEx3, 2B, 3B) in peripheral blood leukocytes. The apoptotic or antiapoptotic tendency was specified by measuring survivin-WT, caspase-3, and -9 serum protein concentrations through enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The survivin-WT, -2B, -ΔΕx3 mRNA, survivin protein, and caspases showed an escalated increase in SIRS and sepsis, whereas survivin-3B was repressed in sepsis (p < 0.05). Survivin correlated with IL-8 and caspase-9 (p < 0.01). For discriminating sepsis, caspase-9 achieved the best receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) of 0.95. In predicting mortality, caspase-9 and survivin protein achieved an AUROC of 0.70. In conclusion, specific apoptotic and antiapoptotic pathways might represent attractive targets for future research in sepsis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marianna Miliaraki
- Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, Medical School, University of Crete, Heraklion, Crete, Greece.,Postgraduate Program "Emergencies and Intensive Care in Children Adolescents and Young Adults", Medical School, University of Crete, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Panagiotis Briassoulis
- Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, Medical School, University of Crete, Heraklion, Crete, Greece.,Postgraduate Program "Emergencies and Intensive Care in Children Adolescents and Young Adults", Medical School, University of Crete, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Stavroula Ilia
- Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, Medical School, University of Crete, Heraklion, Crete, Greece.,Postgraduate Program "Emergencies and Intensive Care in Children Adolescents and Young Adults", Medical School, University of Crete, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Aikaterini Polonifi
- First Department of Internal Medicine - Propaedeutic, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Marina Mantzourani
- First Department of Internal Medicine - Propaedeutic, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Efrossini Briassouli
- First Department of Internal Medicine - Propaedeutic, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Konstantinos Vardas
- First Critical Care Department, Evangelismos University Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Serafim Nanas
- First Critical Care Department, Evangelismos University Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Aikaterini Pistiki
- 4th Department of Internal Medicine, Attikon University Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Maria Theodorakopoulou
- 2nd Department of Critical Care, Attikon University Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Theonymfi Tavladaki
- Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, Medical School, University of Crete, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Anna Maria Spanaki
- Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, Medical School, University of Crete, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Eumorfia Kondili
- Intensive Care Unit, Medical School, University of Crete, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Helen Dimitriou
- Division of Mother and Child Health, Medical School, University of Crete, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Sotirios Tsiodras
- 4th Department of Internal Medicine, Attikon University Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | | | - Apostolos Armaganidis
- 2nd Department of Critical Care, Attikon University Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - George Daikos
- First Department of Internal Medicine - Propaedeutic, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - George Briassoulis
- Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, Medical School, University of Crete, Heraklion, Crete, Greece. .,Postgraduate Program "Emergencies and Intensive Care in Children Adolescents and Young Adults", Medical School, University of Crete, Heraklion, Crete, Greece.
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8
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Akbari Sene A, Tabatabaie A, Nikniaz H, Alizadeh A, Sheibani K, Mortezapour Alisaraie M, Tabatabaie M, Ashrafi M, Amjadi F. The myo-inositol effect on the oocyte quality and fertilization rate among women with polycystic ovary syndrome undergoing assisted reproductive technology cycles: a randomized clinical trial. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2019; 299:1701-1707. [PMID: 30919036 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-019-05111-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2018] [Accepted: 03/04/2019] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of myo-Inositol administration on oocyte quality, fertilization rate and embryo quality in patients with PCOS during assisted reproductive technology (ART) cycles. METHODS Fifty infertile PCOS patients were randomly designated in two groups. In the study group, patients received daily doses of 4 g myo-Inositol combined with 400 mg folic acid and in the control group patients received only 400 mg folic acid from 1 month before starting the antagonist cycle until the day of ovum pick up. Oocyte and embryo qualities were assessed according to European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE) guidelines. The gene expression of PGK1, RGS2 and CDC42 as a factor of oocyte quality in granulosa cells was analyzed using real-time RT-PCR. Levels of total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) were evaluated by chemiluminescence assay in follicular fluid. RESULTS The percentage of metaphase II oocyte, fertilization rate and embryo quality significantly improved in the study group (p < 0.05), but the number of retrieved oocytes and follicle count were not statistically different between groups. Furthermore, the gene expression of PGK1, RGS2 and CDC42 was significantly higher in the study group (p < 0.05) but no differences were found between two groups in terms of TAC and ROS levels. CONCLUSIONS The present study findings suggest that myo-Inositol alters the gene expression in granulosa cells and improves oocyte and embryo quality among PCOS patients undergoing ART.
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Affiliation(s)
- Azadeh Akbari Sene
- Shahid Akbarabadi Clinical Research Development Unit (ShACRDU), Iran University of Medical Sciences, PO Box: 15875-1454, 1168743514, Tehran, Iran
| | - Azam Tabatabaie
- Shahid Akbarabadi Clinical Research Development Unit (ShACRDU), Iran University of Medical Sciences, PO Box: 15875-1454, 1168743514, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hossein Nikniaz
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine Sciences, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ahad Alizadeh
- Department of Epidemiology and Reproductive Health, Reproductive Epidemiology Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Mona Mortezapour Alisaraie
- Shahid Akbarabadi Clinical Research Development Unit (ShACRDU), Iran University of Medical Sciences, PO Box: 15875-1454, 1168743514, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Tabatabaie
- Shahid Akbarabadi Clinical Research Development Unit (ShACRDU), Iran University of Medical Sciences, PO Box: 15875-1454, 1168743514, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahnaz Ashrafi
- Shahid Akbarabadi Clinical Research Development Unit (ShACRDU), Iran University of Medical Sciences, PO Box: 15875-1454, 1168743514, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Endocrinology and Female Infertility, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemehsadat Amjadi
- Shahid Akbarabadi Clinical Research Development Unit (ShACRDU), Iran University of Medical Sciences, PO Box: 15875-1454, 1168743514, Tehran, Iran. .,Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine Sciences, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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9
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Salehi E, Aflatoonian R, Moeini A, Yamini N, Asadi E, Khosravizadeh Z, Tarzjani MD, Harat ZN, Abolhassani F. Apoptotic biomarkers in cumulus cells in relation to embryo quality in polycystic ovary syndrome. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2017; 296:1219-1227. [PMID: 28988321 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-017-4523-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2017] [Accepted: 09/06/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate associations between gene expression pattern of apoptotic biomarkers in cumulus cells of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) patients and the quality of oocytes and embryos. METHODS 40 intracytoplasmic sperm injection patients, of whom 20 were PCOS and 20 were healthy women, were included in this study. Serum hormone levels were measured using Radioimmunoassay for each patient. The expression of survivin, caspase-3, and caspase-7 in 200 cumulus complexes surrounding mature oocytes (100 in PCOS versus 100 in control groups) collected individually at pick up was examined by real-time polymerase chain reaction (real-time PCR). RESULTS The expression levels of survivin were significantly lower in PCOS patients than those of normal women while caspase-3 and caspase-7 expression levels were higher in PCOS patients (p < 0.05). There was a statistically significant correlation between the levels of these genes and embryo quality. CONCLUSIONS This study reveals that the measurement of survivin, caspase-3, caspase-7 levels in cumulus cells of PCOS patients could be used as genetic biomarkers for oocyte and embryo selection under an ART program. However, further prospective studies are required to elucidate this issue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ensieh Salehi
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Science, 16 Azar Avenue, Poor Sina Street, Tehran, Iran
| | - Reza Aflatoonian
- Department of Endocrinology and Female Infertility, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Number 12, East Hafez Avenue, Bani Hashem Street, Resalat Highway, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ashraf Moeini
- Department of Endocrinology and Female Infertility, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Number 12, East Hafez Avenue, Bani Hashem Street, Resalat Highway, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Science, 16 Azar Avenue, Poor Sina Street, Tehran, Iran.,Vali-e-Asr Reproductive Health Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nazila Yamini
- Department of ART, Embryology Laboratory, Arash Women's Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Science, Resalat Highway, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ebrahim Asadi
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Science, 16 Azar Avenue, Poor Sina Street, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Khosravizadeh
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Science, 16 Azar Avenue, Poor Sina Street, Tehran, Iran
| | - Masoumeh Dehghan Tarzjani
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Science, 16 Azar Avenue, Poor Sina Street, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zhila Naghibi Harat
- Department of ART, Embryology Laboratory, Southern California Center, New Port Beach, CA, USA
| | - Farid Abolhassani
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Science, 16 Azar Avenue, Poor Sina Street, Tehran, Iran.
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10
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Relationship between apoptosis and survival molecules in human cumulus cells as markers of oocyte competence. ZYGOTE 2017; 25:583-591. [PMID: 28786369 DOI: 10.1017/s0967199417000429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
To select from a single patient the best oocytes able to reach the blastocyst stage, we searched for valuable markers for oocytes competence. We evaluated the DNA fragmentation index (DFI) and the level of some survival molecules, such as AKT, pAKT and pERK1/2, in individual cumulus cell-oocyte complexes (COC). The study included normo-responder women. The average age of the patients was 34.3. DFI in cumulus cells was evaluated using the terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase (TdT) dUTP nick-end labelling (TUNEL) assay in situ. AKT, pAKT and pERK1/2 were measured by immunological assay and densitometric analysis of fluorescent signals using NIS-Elements BR 3.10 image software. Statistical analysis was performed using STATA SE/14.1. The study focused on 53 patients involved after informed consent. Out of 255 MII oocytes, 197 were fertilized and the derived embryos had the following evolution: 117 completed the development to blastocyst and were transferred to uterus; 57 were vitrified at the blastocyst stage; and 23 were arrested during in vitro culture at different stages of cleavage. We found a significant statistical difference between the DFI of cumulus cells of the arrested embryos and the transferred blastocysts (P = 0.004), confirming that DFI could be considered as a valuable marker of oocyte competence. In addition, the pAKT/DFI ratio was higher in cumulus cells of oocytes able to produce blastocysts, indicating that DFI is significantly lower when pAKT is higher (P = 0.043). This study demonstrates for the first time that the relationship between apoptosis and survival molecules can be used as a marker to select the best oocytes.
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11
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The WNT/β-catenin signaling pathway may be involved in granulosa cell apoptosis from patients with PCOS in North China. J Gynecol Obstet Hum Reprod 2017; 46:93-99. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jgyn.2015.08.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2015] [Revised: 07/15/2015] [Accepted: 08/25/2015] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
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12
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Kordus RJ, LaVoie HA. Granulosa cell biomarkers to predict pregnancy in ART: pieces to solve the puzzle. Reproduction 2016; 153:R69-R83. [PMID: 27815559 DOI: 10.1530/rep-16-0500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2016] [Revised: 10/31/2016] [Accepted: 11/04/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Cumulus and mural granulosa cells of the ovarian follicle surround and interact with the developing oocyte. These follicular cells reflect the oocyte's overall health and may indicate subsequent developmental competence of embryos. Biomarkers of granulosa cells associated with individual oocytes could potentially be used in assisted reproduction to indicate which embryos have the best chance of implanting in the uterus and completing gestation. In this review, we have performed a comprehensive assessment of the recent literature for human cumulus and mural granulosa cell mRNA biomarkers as they relate to pregnancy and live birth. A critical discussion of variables affecting granulosa gene expression profiles for in vitro fertilization patients, including patient demographics and ovarian stimulation regimens, is presented. Although studies with microarray data were evaluated, this synopsis focuses on expressed genes that have been validated by quantitative RT-PCR. Furthermore, we summarize the current published data that support or refute identified granulosa expressed genes as potential biomarkers of embryos that give rise to ongoing pregnancy and live birth. Finally, we review studies that offer predictive models for embryo selection for uterine transfer based on biomarkers that show differential gene expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard J Kordus
- Department of Cell Biology and AnatomyUniversity of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
| | - Holly A LaVoie
- Department of Cell Biology and AnatomyUniversity of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
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Kwak DH, Park JH, Lee HS, Moon JS, Lee S. Aristolochic Acid I Induces Ovarian Toxicity by Inhibition of Akt Phosphorylation. Chem Res Toxicol 2014; 27:2128-35. [DOI: 10.1021/tx5003854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Dong Hoon Kwak
- Institute
for Glycoscience, Wonkwang University, Iksan 570-749, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji-Hye Park
- Department
of Pharmacology, Wonkwang University School of Medicine and Wonkwang Brain Research Institute, Iksan 570-749, Republic of Korea
| | - Hak-Seung Lee
- Department
of Pharmacology, Wonkwang University School of Medicine and Wonkwang Brain Research Institute, Iksan 570-749, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji-Sook Moon
- Department
of Pharmacology, Wonkwang University School of Medicine and Wonkwang Brain Research Institute, Iksan 570-749, Republic of Korea
| | - Seoul Lee
- Department
of Pharmacology, Wonkwang University School of Medicine and Wonkwang Brain Research Institute, Iksan 570-749, Republic of Korea
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14
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Sanchez AM, Viganò P, Quattrone F, Pagliardini L, Papaleo E, Candiani M, Panina-Bordignon P. The WNT/β-catenin signaling pathway and expression of survival promoting genes in luteinized granulosa cells: endometriosis as a paradigm for a dysregulated apoptosis pathway. Fertil Steril 2014; 101:1688-96. [PMID: 24661731 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2014.02.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2013] [Revised: 02/17/2014] [Accepted: 02/20/2014] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To analyze the WNT/β-catenin signaling pathway in luteinized granulosa cells from women with and without endometriosis in relation to cellular apoptosis. DESIGN Basic. SETTING University hospital. PATIENT(S) Patients with a laparoscopic diagnosis of endometriosis (n = 30) and women undergoing intracytoplasmic sperm injection for male infertility (control group n = 39). INTERVENTION(S) Isolation of luteinized granulosa cells. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Gene expression analysis of components of the WNT/β-catenin pathway, protein expression levels of β-catenin, and cell cycle studies in luteinized granulosa cells. RESULT(S) Compared with luteinized granulosa cells from control women, cells derived from endometriosis patients had significantly higher transcript levels of the β-catenin-independent molecules WNT4 and WNT5a and lower levels of the β-catenin-dependent molecule WNT1. A decrease of total β-catenin as well as of its dephosphorylated active form, together with an aberrant gene expression of the downstream targets survivin and BMP4, was detected in cells from affected women. Flow cytometry analysis confirmed an enhanced apoptosis of luteinized granulosa cells from patients with endometriosis. CONCLUSION(S) The concomitant dysregulation of specific members of the WNT pathway and of its pivot molecule β-catenin in granulosa cells characterized by an increased apoptosis suggests that the WNT/β-catenin signaling pathway might be involved in leading to granulosa cell atresia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana M Sanchez
- Reproductive Sciences Laboratory, Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Paola Viganò
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy.
| | - Federica Quattrone
- Reproductive Sciences Laboratory, Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Luca Pagliardini
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Enrico Papaleo
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Massimo Candiani
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Paola Panina-Bordignon
- Reproductive Sciences Laboratory, Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
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15
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Varras M, Griva T, Kalles V, Akrivis C, Paparisteidis N. Markers of stem cells in human ovarian granulosa cells: is there a clinical significance in ART? J Ovarian Res 2012; 5:36. [PMID: 23164047 PMCID: PMC3536594 DOI: 10.1186/1757-2215-5-36] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2012] [Accepted: 11/15/2012] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The purpose of the study was to determine the incidence of gene expression of Oct-4 and DAZL, which are typical markers for stem cells, in human granulosa cells during ovarian stimulation in women with normal FSH levels undergoing IVF or ICSI and to discover any clinical significance of such expression in ART. Methods Twenty one women underwent ovulation induction for IVF or ICSI and ET with standard GnRH analogue-recombinant FSH protocol. Infertility causes were male and tubal factor. Cumulus–mature oocyte complexes were denuded separately and granulosa cells were analyzed for each patient separately using quantitative reverse-transcription–polymerase chain reaction analysis for Oct-4 and DAZL gene expression with G6PD gene as internal standard. Results G6PD and Oct-4 mRNA was detected in the granulosa cells in 47.6% (10/21). The median of Oct-4 mRNA/G6PD mRNA was 1.75 with intra-quarteral range from 0.10 to 98.21. The OCT-4 mRNA expression was statistically significantly correlated with the number of oocytes retrieved; when the Oct-4 mRNA expression was higher, then more than six oocytes were retrieved (p=0.037, Wilcoxon rank-sum). No detection of DAZL mRNA was found in granulosa cells. There was no additional statistically significant correlation between the levels of Oct-4 expression and FSH basal levels or estradiol peak levels or dosage of FSH for ovulation induction. No association was found between the presence or absence of Oct-4 mRNA expression in granulosa cells and ovarian response to gonadotropin stimulation. Also, no influence on pregnancy was observed between the presence or absence of Oct-4 mRNA expression in granulosa cells or to its expression levels accordingly. Conclusions Expression of OCT-4 mRNA, which is a typical stem cell marker and absence of expression of DAZL mRNA, which is a typical germ cell marker, suggest that a subpopulation of luteinized granulosa cells in healthy ovarian follicles (47.6%) consists of stem cells, which are not originated from primordial germ cells. Absence of Oct-4 gene expression in more than half of the cases means probably the end of the productive journey of these cells, towards the oocyte.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michail Varras
- Third Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, "Elena Venizelou" General Maternity Hospital, Platonos 33, Politia (Kifisia), Athens, 14563, Greece.
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