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Vella MA, García DC, De Boeck M, Valdecantos PA, Roldán-Olarte M. Role of steroid hormones in the maintenance of focal adhesions in bovine oviductal epithelial cells. Domest Anim Endocrinol 2024; 88:106839. [PMID: 38433026 DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2024.106839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
The oviduct, the organ of the female reproductive system where fertilization and early embryonic development occur, provides an optimal environment for the final maturation of oocytes, storage, and sperm capacitation and transport of gametes and embryos. During the estrous cycle, the oviduct is affected by ovarian sex hormones, resulting in changes aimed at maintaining an appropriate microenvironment. Normal cell migration is tightly regulated, its role being essential for the development and maintenance of organ and tissue functions as well as for regeneration following injury. Due to their involvement in focal contact formations, focal adhesion kinase (PTK2) and paxillin (PXN) are key proteins in the study of cell migration and adhesion. The objective of this work was to compare the expression of PTK2 and PXN in oviductal cells along the estrous cycle and to determine if their expression is regulated by the presence of 17-β estradiol (E2) and/or progesterone (P4). No transcripts of PTK2 or of PXN were detected in cells corresponding to the luteal phase. Additionally, hormonal stimulation experiments on bovine oviductal cell cultures (BOECs) were carried out, where P4 inhibited the expression of both genes. Migration assays demonstrated that P4 reduced BOECs migration capacity. P4 treatment also reduced cell adhesion, while E2 increased the number of adhered cells. In conclusion, the presence of E2 and P4 regulates the expression of genes involved in the formation of focal contacts and modifies the migration and adhesion of BOECs. Understanding the effect of steroid hormones on BOECs is critical to grasp the impact of steroid control on oviductal function and its contribution to establishing successful pregnancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milda Alejandra Vella
- Instituto Superior de Investigaciones Biológicas (INSIBIO), CONICET-UNT, and Instituto de Biología 'Dr. Francisco D. Barbieri', Facultad de Bioquímica, Química y Farmacia, Universidad Nacional de Tucumán, Chacabuco 461, T4000ILI San Miguel de Tucumán, Tucumán, Argentina
| | - Daniela Celeste García
- Instituto Superior de Investigaciones Biológicas (INSIBIO), CONICET-UNT, and Instituto de Biología 'Dr. Francisco D. Barbieri', Facultad de Bioquímica, Química y Farmacia, Universidad Nacional de Tucumán, Chacabuco 461, T4000ILI San Miguel de Tucumán, Tucumán, Argentina; Instituto de Ciencias Químicas (ICQ), Facultad de Agronomía y Agroindustrias (FAyA), Universidad Nacional de Santiago del Estero (UNSE)-CONICET. RN 9 Km 1125. Villa El Zanjón. CP4206 Santiago del Estero, Argentina
| | - Maximiliano De Boeck
- Instituto Superior de Investigaciones Biológicas (INSIBIO), CONICET-UNT, and Instituto de Biología 'Dr. Francisco D. Barbieri', Facultad de Bioquímica, Química y Farmacia, Universidad Nacional de Tucumán, Chacabuco 461, T4000ILI San Miguel de Tucumán, Tucumán, Argentina
| | - Pablo Alberto Valdecantos
- Instituto Superior de Investigaciones Biológicas (INSIBIO), CONICET-UNT, and Instituto de Biología 'Dr. Francisco D. Barbieri', Facultad de Bioquímica, Química y Farmacia, Universidad Nacional de Tucumán, Chacabuco 461, T4000ILI San Miguel de Tucumán, Tucumán, Argentina
| | - Mariela Roldán-Olarte
- Instituto Superior de Investigaciones Biológicas (INSIBIO), CONICET-UNT, and Instituto de Biología 'Dr. Francisco D. Barbieri', Facultad de Bioquímica, Química y Farmacia, Universidad Nacional de Tucumán, Chacabuco 461, T4000ILI San Miguel de Tucumán, Tucumán, Argentina.
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Pascua AM, Barbisan G, Nikoloff N, Carranza-Martín AC, Fabra MC, Anchordoquy JP, Balbi M, Giuliodori MJ, Furnus CC, Anchordoquy JM. Effect of estrogen and progesterone on intracellular free zinc and zinc transporter expression in bovine oviduct epithelial cells. Theriogenology 2024; 221:18-24. [PMID: 38521006 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2024.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024]
Abstract
Zinc (Zn) plays essential roles in numerous cellular processes. However, there is limited understanding of Zn homeostasis within the bovine reproductive system. This study investigated the influence of estradiol (E2) and progesterone (P4) on Zn transporter expression and intracellular free Zn levels in bovine oviduct epithelial cells (BOEC). For this purpose, cells were harvested from slaughtered cows and cultured in vitro. Intracellular Zn concentrations were measured using FluoZin-3AM staining, while real-time polymerase chain reaction assessed Zn transporter gene expression and quantification. Overall, our results confirmed the gene expression of all the evaluated Zn transporters (ZIP6, ZIP8, ZIP14, ZnT3, ZnT7 and ZnT9), denoted and the active role of E2 and P4 in intracellular Zn regulation. Our findings suggest an interaction between Zn, E2 and P4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Malen Pascua
- IGEVET - Instituto de Genética Veterinaria "Ing. Fernando N Dulout" (UNLP-CONICET LA PLATA), Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias UNLP, Calles 60 y 118, B1904AMA, La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Gisela Barbisan
- IGEVET - Instituto de Genética Veterinaria "Ing. Fernando N Dulout" (UNLP-CONICET LA PLATA), Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias UNLP, Calles 60 y 118, B1904AMA, La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina; YPF Tecnología (Y-TEC), Av. Del Petróleo S/N entre 129 y 143, CP 1923, Berisso, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Noelia Nikoloff
- IGEVET - Instituto de Genética Veterinaria "Ing. Fernando N Dulout" (UNLP-CONICET LA PLATA), Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias UNLP, Calles 60 y 118, B1904AMA, La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Ana Cristina Carranza-Martín
- IGEVET - Instituto de Genética Veterinaria "Ing. Fernando N Dulout" (UNLP-CONICET LA PLATA), Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias UNLP, Calles 60 y 118, B1904AMA, La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Mariana Carolina Fabra
- IGEVET - Instituto de Genética Veterinaria "Ing. Fernando N Dulout" (UNLP-CONICET LA PLATA), Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias UNLP, Calles 60 y 118, B1904AMA, La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Juan Patricio Anchordoquy
- IGEVET - Instituto de Genética Veterinaria "Ing. Fernando N Dulout" (UNLP-CONICET LA PLATA), Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias UNLP, Calles 60 y 118, B1904AMA, La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Cátedra de Fisiología, FCV-UNLP, Argentina
| | - Marianela Balbi
- IGEVET - Instituto de Genética Veterinaria "Ing. Fernando N Dulout" (UNLP-CONICET LA PLATA), Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias UNLP, Calles 60 y 118, B1904AMA, La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | - Cecilia Cristina Furnus
- IGEVET - Instituto de Genética Veterinaria "Ing. Fernando N Dulout" (UNLP-CONICET LA PLATA), Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias UNLP, Calles 60 y 118, B1904AMA, La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Juan Mateo Anchordoquy
- IGEVET - Instituto de Genética Veterinaria "Ing. Fernando N Dulout" (UNLP-CONICET LA PLATA), Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias UNLP, Calles 60 y 118, B1904AMA, La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Cátedra de Fisiología, FCV-UNLP, Argentina.
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3
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Xia T, Umezu K, Scully DM, Wang S, Larina IV. In vivo volumetric depth-resolved imaging of cilia metachronal waves using dynamic optical coherence tomography. OPTICA 2023; 10:1439-1451. [PMID: 38665775 PMCID: PMC11044847 DOI: 10.1364/optica.499927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
Motile cilia are dynamic hair-like structures covering epithelial surfaces in multiple organs. The periodic coordinated beating of cilia creates waves propagating along the surface, known as the metachronal waves, which transport fluids and mucus along the epithelium. Motile ciliopathies result from disrupted coordinated cilia beating and are associated with serious clinical complications, including reproductive disorders. Despite the recognized clinical significance, research of cilia dynamics is extremely limited. Here, we present quantitative imaging of cilia metachronal waves volumetrically through tissue layers using dynamic optical coherence tomography (OCT). Our method relies on spatiotemporal mapping of the phase of intensity fluctuations in OCT images caused by the ciliary beating. We validated our new method ex vivo and implemented it in vivo to visualize cilia metachronal wave propagation within the mouse fallopian tube. This method can be extended to the assessment of physiological cilia function and ciliary dyskinesias in various organ systems, contributing to better management of pathologies associated with motile ciliopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tian Xia
- Department of Integrative Physiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Kohei Umezu
- Department of Integrative Physiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Deirdre M Scully
- Department of Integrative Physiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Shang Wang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Stevens Institute of Technology, Hoboken, New Jersey 07030, USA
| | - Irina V Larina
- Department of Integrative Physiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
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Noghrehalipour N, Aflatoonian R, Rahimipour A, Aghajanpour S, Najafian A, Chekini Z, Ghaffari F, Kazerouni F. The Effect of Altered Mucin1, FGF2, and HBEGF Gene Expression at The Ectopic Implantation Site and Endometrial Tissues in The Tubal Pregnancy Pathogenesis: A Case-Control Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF FERTILITY & STERILITY 2023; 17:242-247. [PMID: 37577906 PMCID: PMC10439997 DOI: 10.22074/ijfs.2023.1972252.1390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ectopic pregnancy (EP) is defined as implantation and development of an embryo outside of the uterine tissue. Women undergoing assisted reproductive technologies (ART), particularly frozen embryo transfer (FET), are in high-risk populations for EP. Mucin1 (MUC1), fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF2), and Heparin-binding epidermal growth factor (HBEGF) genes are involved in the endometrial receptivity pathway, leading to normal eutopic implantation; Although, their relevance in the tubal pregnancy after FET is unknown. We aimed evaluation of Mucin1, FGF2, and HBEGF expression fold as endometrial receptive markers in the EP patients following the FET cycle. MATERIALS AND METHODS A case-control study was conducted on ten patients (five EP patients and five women in the pseudo-pregnancy group, as the control samples). Pseudo-pregnancy group was established in women who were candidates for hysterectomy for benign diseases. Fallopian tube biopsies and corresponding endometrial tissues from these patients were taken during the hysterectomy. However, the fallopian tube and endometrial tissues of EP patients were obtained during salpingectomy. The mRNA expressions of Mucin1, FGF2, and HBEGF genes in the fallopian tube and endometrial tissues were measured by real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay. RESULTS MUC1 mRNA expression level in the endometrium of the case group was higher than in the control group (P=0.04); however, its mRNA expression in the fallopian samples of the case group in comparison with the control group was significantly decreased (P=0.001). The HBEGF mRNA expression level was not significantly different between the case and control endometrium, whereas its expression was significantly increased in the case fallopian samples compared with the control ones (P=0.001). The same pattern was observed for FGF2 mRNA expression level in the fallopian samples of the case group but was significantly reduced in the endometrial samples in comparison with the control samples (P=0.03). CONCLUSION Mucin1, FGF2, and HBEGF gene mRNA expression changes may explain the embryo rejection from the uterus and the establishment of a receptive phenotype in fallopian cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadia Noghrehalipour
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Reza Aflatoonian
- Department of Endocrinology and Female Infertility, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Rahimipour
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Samaneh Aghajanpour
- Department of Endocrinology and Female Infertility, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Aida Najafian
- Department of Endocrinology and Infertility, Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Chekini
- Department of Endocrinology and Female Infertility, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Firouzeh Ghaffari
- Department of Endocrinology and Female Infertility, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Faranak Kazerouni
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Holdsworth-Carson SJ, Menkhorst E, Maybin JA, King A, Girling JE. Cyclic processes in the uterine tubes, endometrium, myometrium, and cervix: pathways and perturbations. Mol Hum Reprod 2023; 29:gaad012. [PMID: 37225518 PMCID: PMC10208902 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaad012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Revised: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/26/2023] Open
Abstract
This review leads the 2023 Call for Papers in MHR: 'Cyclical function of the female reproductive tract' and will outline the complex and fascinating changes that take place in the reproductive tract during the menstrual cycle. We will also explore associated reproductive tract abnormalities that impact or are impacted by the menstrual cycle. Between menarche and menopause, women and people who menstruate living in high-income countries can expect to experience ∼450 menstrual cycles. The primary function of the menstrual cycle is to prepare the reproductive system for pregnancy in the event of fertilization. In the absence of pregnancy, ovarian hormone levels fall, triggering the end of the menstrual cycle and onset of menstruation. We have chosen to exclude the ovaries and focus on the other structures that make up the reproductive tract: uterine tubes, endometrium, myometrium, and cervix, which also functionally change in response to fluctuations in ovarian hormone production across the menstrual cycle. This inaugural paper for the 2023 MHR special collection will discuss our current understanding of the normal physiological processes involved in uterine cyclicity (limited specifically to the uterine tubes, endometrium, myometrium, and cervix) in humans, and other mammals where relevant. We will emphasize where knowledge gaps exist and highlight the impact that reproductive tract and uterine cycle perturbations have on health and fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah J Holdsworth-Carson
- Julia Argyrou Endometriosis Centre, Epworth HealthCare, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne and Gynaecology Research Centre, Royal Women’s Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Ellen Menkhorst
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne and Gynaecology Research Centre, Royal Women’s Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Jacqueline A Maybin
- Institute for Regeneration and Repair, MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Anna King
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, NHS Lothian, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Jane E Girling
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne and Gynaecology Research Centre, Royal Women’s Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Anatomy, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
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Characterization of a DRC1 null variant associated with primary ciliary dyskinesia and female infertility. J Assist Reprod Genet 2023; 40:765-778. [PMID: 36856967 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-023-02755-6] [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: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2023] Open
Abstract
PROPOSE We here present a female case with primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD) and infertility. In this report, we also present the evaluation of the patient family, including her twin sister, also with PCD and infertility. METHODS Confirmation of the PCD clinical diagnosis was performed through assessment of cilia motility, by high-speed video microscopy (HSVM), axoneme ultrastructure, by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and genetic characterization, by whole-exome sequence (WES). Gene expression studies used qPCR for mRNA expression and immunofluorescence to determine cell protein localization. RESULTS We identified a homozygous nonsense variant in the DRC1 gene (NM 145038.5:c.352C>T (p.Gln118Ter)) in the female patient with PCD and infertility that fit the model of autosomal recessive genetic transmission. This variant eventually results in a dyskinetic ciliary beat with a lower frequency and a partial lack of both dynein arms as revealed by TEM analysis. Moreover, this variant implies a decrease in the expression of DRC1 mRNA and protein. Additionally, expression analysis suggested that DRC1 may interact with other DRC elements. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that the DRC1 null variant leads to PCD associated with infertility, likely caused by defects in axoneme from Fallopian tube cilia. Overall, our outcomes contribute to a better understanding of the genetic factors involved in the pathophysiology of PCD and infertility, and they highlight the interaction of different genes in the patient phenotype, which should be investigated further because it may explain the high heterogeneity observed in PCD patients.
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Expression of Indian hedgehog signaling in murine oviductal infundibulum and its relationship with epithelial homeostasis. Cell Tissue Res 2023; 391:595-609. [PMID: 36577879 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-022-03722-w] [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: 10/17/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Homeostasis of the oviductal infundibulum epithelium is continuously regulated by signaling pathways under physiological and pathological conditions. Herein, we investigated the expression of hedgehog (Hh) signaling-related components in the murine oviductal infundibulum, which is known to maintain homeostasis in the adult epithelium. Additionally, using autoimmune disease-prone MRL/MpJ-Faslpr/lpr (MRL/lpr) mice showing abnormal morphofunction of the ciliated epithelium of the infundibulum related to the oviductal inflammation, we examined the relationship between Hh signaling and pathology of the infundibulum. The expression and localization of Pax8, a marker for progenitor cells in the oviductal epithelium, and Foxj1, a marker for ciliogenesis, were examined in the infundibulum. The results showed that Pax8 was downregulated and Foxj1 was upregulated with aging, suggesting that homeostasis of the infundibulum epithelium of MRL/lpr mice was disturbed at 6 months of age. In all mice, the motile cilia of ciliated epithelial cells in the infundibulum harbored Hh signaling pathway-related molecules: patched (Ptch), smoothened (Smo), and epithelial cells harbor Gli. In contrast, Ptch, Smo, and Gli2 were significantly downregulated in the infundibulum of MRL/lpr mice at 6 months of age. The expression levels of Pax8 and Foxj1 were significantly positively correlated with those of Ptch1, Smo, and Gli2. Hh signaling is thought to be involved in homeostasis of the ciliated epithelium in the infundibulum. In MRL/lpr mice, which show exacerbated severe systemic autoimmune abnormalities, molecular alterations in Hh signaling-related components are considered to interact with local inflammation in the infundibulum, leading to disturbances in epithelial homeostasis and reproductive function.
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Umezu K, Larina IV. Optical coherence tomography for dynamic investigation of mammalian reproductive processes. Mol Reprod Dev 2023; 90:3-13. [PMID: 36574640 PMCID: PMC9877170 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2022] [Revised: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 12/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
The biological events associated with mammalian reproductive processes are highly dynamic and tightly regulated by molecular, genetic, and biomechanical factors. Implementation of live imaging in reproductive research is vital for the advancement of our understanding of normal reproductive physiology and for improving the management of reproductive disorders. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is emerging as a promising tool for dynamic volumetric imaging of various reproductive processes in mice and other animal models. In this review, we summarize recent studies employing OCT-based approaches toward the investigation of reproductive processes in both, males and females. We describe how OCT can be applied to study structural features of the male reproductive system and sperm transport through the male reproductive tract. We review OCT applications for in vitro and dynamic in vivo imaging of the female reproductive system, staging and tracking of oocytes and embryos, and investigations of the oocyte/embryo transport through the oviduct. We describe how the functional OCT approach can be applied to the analysis of cilia dynamics within the male and female reproductive systems. We also discuss the areas of research, where OCT could find potential applications to progress our understanding of normal reproductive physiology and reproductive disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kohei Umezu
- Department of Integrative Physiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Irina V Larina
- Department of Integrative Physiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
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Muacevic A, Adler JR, Kulshreshtha A, Zangmo R, Roy KK. Exploring the Role of Levonorgestrel Intrauterine System (LNG-IUS) as a Method of Emergency Contraception (EC). Cureus 2022; 14:e31959. [PMID: 36600871 PMCID: PMC9800030 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.31959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Copper T 380-A (CuT380A) intrauterine device (IUD) has been an effective method of emergency contraception (EC). Levonorgestrel intrauterine system (LNG-IUS) has not been approved by the Food and Drug Association for EC till now. There are few studies that provide data regarding the efficacy of LNG-IUS as EC. This systematic review tried to explore the efficacy of LNG-IUS in preventing accidental pregnancies up to five days of unprotected intercourse. A systematic review of the published studies on the use of LNG-IUS as EC was done. All randomized trials, prospective cohorts, retrospective cohorts. and case-control study designs pertaining to this topic were included in this review. Abstracts were retrieved and reviewed by two authors independently. Variables pertaining to socio-demographic parameters, EC use-related variables (reason for use, frequency, time elapsed since coitus), and those associated with sexual habits were selected and recorded. A total of six articles were rendered for the review. High school students and those attending college accounted for 36.8%-51.8% of the study population. Data on the reason for seeking EC showed noncompliance to routine contraception as the most common reason, followed by failure of withdrawal method, breach of barrier contraception, and unplanned intercourse. With a negligible failure rate, LNG-IUS seemed to be a good alternative to the existing copper EC. Considering the plethora of noncontraceptive benefits associated, LNG-IUS can be safely provided as an option of EC in the cafeteria approach within five days of unprotected intercourse.
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Sex Steroids Effects on Asthma: A Network Perspective of Immune and Airway Cells. Cells 2022; 11:cells11142238. [PMID: 35883681 PMCID: PMC9318292 DOI: 10.3390/cells11142238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Revised: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
A multitude of evidence has suggested the differential incidence, prevalence and severity of asthma between males and females. A compilation of recent literature recognized sex differences as a significant non-modifiable risk factor in asthma pathogenesis. Understanding the cellular and mechanistic basis of sex differences remains complex and the pivotal point of this ever elusive quest, which remains to be clarified in the current scenario. Sex steroids are an integral part of human development and evolution while also playing a critical role in the conditioning of the immune system and thereby influencing the function of peripheral organs. Classical perspectives suggest a pre-defined effect of sex steroids, generalizing estrogens popularly under the “estrogen paradox” due to conflicting reports associating estrogen with a pro- and anti-inflammatory role. On the other hand, androgens are classified as “anti-inflammatory,” serving a protective role in mitigating inflammation. Although considered mainstream and simplistic, this observation remains valid for numerous reasons, as elaborated in the current review. Women appear immune-favored with stronger and more responsive immune elements than men. However, the remarkable female predominance of diverse autoimmune and allergic diseases contradicts this observation suggesting that hormonal differences between the sexes might modulate the normal and dysfunctional regulation of the immune system. This review illustrates the potential relationship between key elements of the immune cell system and their interplay with sex steroids, relevant to structural cells in the pathophysiology of asthma and many other lung diseases. Here, we discuss established and emerging paradigms in the clarification of observed sex differences in asthma in the context of the immune system, which will deepen our understanding of asthma etiopathology.
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Wu HY, Rong Y, Bansal PK, Wei P, Guo H, Morgan JI. TTLL1 and TTLL4 polyglutamylases are required for the neurodegenerative phenotypes in pcd mice. PLoS Genet 2022; 18:e1010144. [PMID: 35404950 PMCID: PMC9022812 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1010144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2021] [Revised: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Polyglutamylation is a dynamic posttranslational modification where glutamate residues are added to substrate proteins by 8 tubulin tyrosine ligase-like (TTLL) family members (writers) and removed by the 6 member Nna1/CCP family of carboxypeptidases (erasers). Genetic disruption of polyglutamylation leading to hyperglutamylation causes neurodegenerative phenotypes in humans and animal models; the best characterized being the Purkinje cell degeneration (pcd) mouse, a mutant of the gene encoding Nna1/CCP1, the prototypic eraser. Emphasizing the functional importance of the balance between glutamate addition and elimination, loss of TTLL1 prevents Purkinje cell degeneration in pcd. However, whether Ttll1 loss protects other vulnerable neurons in pcd, or if elimination of other TTLLs provides protection is largely unknown. Here using a mouse genetic rescue strategy, we characterized the contribution of Ttll1, 4, 5, 7, or 11 to the degenerative phenotypes in cerebellum, olfactory bulb and retinae of pcd mutants. Ttll1 deficiency attenuates Purkinje cell loss and function and reduces olfactory bulb mitral cell death and retinal photoreceptor degeneration. Moreover, degeneration of photoreceptors in pcd is preceded by impaired rhodopsin trafficking to the rod outer segment and likely represents the causal defect leading to degeneration as this too is rescued by elimination of TTLL1. Although TTLLs have similar catalytic properties on model substrates and several are highly expressed in Purkinje cells (e.g. TTLL5 and 7), besides TTLL1 only TTLL4 deficiency attenuated degeneration of Purkinje and mitral cells in pcd. Additionally, TTLL4 loss partially rescued photoreceptor degeneration and impaired rhodopsin trafficking. Despite their common properties, the polyglutamylation profile changes promoted by TTLL1 and TTLL4 deficiencies in pcd mice are very different. We also report that loss of anabolic TTLL5 synergizes with loss of catabolic Nna1/CCP1 to promote photoreceptor degeneration. Finally, male infertility in pcd is not rescued by loss of any Ttll. These data provide insight into the complexity of polyglutamate homeostasis and function in vivo and potential routes to ameliorate disorders caused by disrupted polyglutamylation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui-Yuan Wu
- Department of Developmental Neurobiology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, United States of America
- School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
| | - Yongqi Rong
- Department of Developmental Neurobiology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, United States of America
| | - Parmil K. Bansal
- Department of Developmental Neurobiology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, United States of America
| | - Peng Wei
- Department of Developmental Neurobiology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, United States of America
| | - Hong Guo
- Department of Developmental Neurobiology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, United States of America
| | - James I. Morgan
- Department of Developmental Neurobiology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, United States of America
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12
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Progesterone and Inflammatory Response in the Oviduct during Physiological and Pathological Conditions. Cells 2022; 11:cells11071075. [PMID: 35406639 PMCID: PMC8997425 DOI: 10.3390/cells11071075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Revised: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Progesterone has been shown to be a potent suppressor of several inflammatory pathways. During pregnancy, progesterone levels increase, allowing for normal pregnancy establishment and maintenance. The dysregulation of progesterone, as well as inflammation, leads to poor pregnancy outcomes. However, it is unclear how progesterone imbalance could impact inflammatory responses in the oviduct and subsequently result in early pregnancy loss. Therefore, in this review, we describe the role of progesterone signaling in regulating the inflammatory response, with a focus on the oviduct and pathological conditions in the Fallopian tubes.
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13
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Ma C, Wu H, Zhu D, Wang Y, Shen Q, Cheng H, Zhang J, Geng H, Liu Y, He X, Tao F, Cao Y, Xu X. Bi-allelic mutations in MCIDAS and CCNO cause human infertility associated with abnormal gamete transport. Clin Genet 2021; 100:731-742. [PMID: 34569065 DOI: 10.1111/cge.14067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Revised: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Reduced generation of multiple motile cilia (RGMC) and the consequent primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD) cause infertility due to a substantial reduction in the number of multiciliated cells (MCCs) in the efferent ducts (EDs)/oviducts. MCIDAS acts upstream of CCNO to regulate the biogenesis of basal bodies (BBs); therefore, both genes play a vital role in the multiciliogenesis of the reproductive tract epithelium. In this study, whole-exome sequencing was performed to identify the causative genes in 10 unrelated infertile patients with PCD: seven males and three females. Notably, homozygous frameshift mutations in MCIDAS (c.186dupT, p.Pro63Serfs*22) and CCNO (c.262_263insGGCCC, p.Gln88Argfs*8) were identified in one male and one female participant from two unrelated consanguineous families. Haematoxylin-eosin staining/scanning electron microscopy revealed abnormal MCCs in the mutated EDs/oviducts. Furthermore, transmission electron microscopy revealed significantly reduced BBs. Immunofluorescence staining showed the absence of MCIDAS and CCNO signals in the affected tissues and confirmed that MCIDAS acts upstream of CCNO in the context of multiciliogenesis in the reproductive tract epithelium. In vitro fertilization (IVF)/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) was successful, with a positive pregnancy outcome in both MCIDAS- and CCNO-mutated patients. Our results support the use of IVF/ICSI interventions to treat infertility due to RGMC in couples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cong Ma
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China.,NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China.,Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Huan Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China.,NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China.,Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Damin Zhu
- NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China.,Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Ying Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Qunshan Shen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China.,Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China.,Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, Anhui Provincial Engineering Research Center, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Huiru Cheng
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China.,Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, Anhui Provincial Engineering Research Center, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China.,Anhui Provincial Institute of Translational Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Junqiang Zhang
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China.,Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, Anhui Provincial Engineering Research Center, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China.,Anhui Provincial Institute of Translational Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Hao Geng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China.,Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China.,Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, Anhui Provincial Engineering Research Center, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Yiyuan Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China.,Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China.,Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, Anhui Provincial Engineering Research Center, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Xiaojin He
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China.,NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China.,Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Fangbiao Tao
- NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China.,Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Yunxia Cao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China.,NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China.,Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Xiaofeng Xu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China.,NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China.,Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
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14
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Roberson EC, Battenhouse AM, Garge RK, Tran NK, Marcotte EM, Wallingford JB. Spatiotemporal transcriptional dynamics of the cycling mouse oviduct. Dev Biol 2021; 476:240-248. [PMID: 33864778 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2021.03.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Accepted: 03/19/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Female fertility in mammals requires iterative remodeling of the entire adult female reproductive tract across the menstrual/estrous cycle. However, while transcriptome dynamics across the estrous cycle have been reported in human and bovine models, no global analysis of gene expression across the estrous cycle has yet been reported for the mouse. Here, we examined the cellular composition and global transcriptional dynamics of the mouse oviduct along the anteroposterior axis and across the estrous cycle. We observed robust patterns of differential gene expression along the anteroposterior axis, but we found surprisingly few changes in gene expression across the estrous cycle. Notable gene expression differences along the anteroposterior axis included a surprising enrichment for genes related to embryonic development, such as Hox and Wnt genes. The relatively stable transcriptional dynamics across the estrous cycle differ markedly from other mammals, leading us to speculate that this is an evolutionarily derived state that may reflect the extremely rapid five-day mouse estrous cycle. This dataset fills a critical gap by providing an important genomic resource for a highly tractable genetic model of mammalian female reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elle C Roberson
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, University of Texas at Austin, TX, 78712, USA
| | - Anna M Battenhouse
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, University of Texas at Austin, TX, 78712, USA
| | - Riddhiman K Garge
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, University of Texas at Austin, TX, 78712, USA
| | - Ngan Kim Tran
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, University of Texas at Austin, TX, 78712, USA
| | - Edward M Marcotte
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, University of Texas at Austin, TX, 78712, USA
| | - John B Wallingford
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, University of Texas at Austin, TX, 78712, USA.
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15
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Turok DK, Gero A, Simmons RG, Kaiser JE, Stoddard GJ, Sexsmith CD, Gawron LM, Sanders JN. Levonorgestrel vs. Copper Intrauterine Devices for Emergency Contraception. N Engl J Med 2021; 384:335-344. [PMID: 33503342 PMCID: PMC7983017 DOI: 10.1056/nejmoa2022141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the United States, more intrauterine device (IUD) users select levonorgestrel IUDs than copper IUDs for long-term contraception. Currently, clinicians offer only copper IUDs for emergency contraception because data are lacking on the efficacy of the levonorgestrel IUD for this purpose. METHODS This randomized noninferiority trial, in which participants were unaware of the group assignments, was conducted at six clinics in Utah and included women who sought emergency contraception after at least one episode of unprotected intercourse within 5 days before presentation and agreed to placement of an IUD. We randomly assigned participants in a 1:1 ratio to receive a levonorgestrel 52-mg IUD or a copper T380A IUD. The primary outcome was a positive urine pregnancy test 1 month after IUD insertion. When a 1-month urine pregnancy test was unavailable, we used survey and health record data to determine pregnancy status. The prespecified noninferiority margin was 2.5 percentage points. RESULTS Among the 355 participants randomly assigned to receive levonorgestrel IUDs and 356 assigned to receive copper IUDs, 317 and 321, respectively, received the interventions and provided 1-month outcome data. Of these, 290 in the levonorgestrel group and 300 in the copper IUD group had a 1-month urine pregnancy test. In the modified intention-to-treat and per-protocol analyses, pregnancy rates were 1 in 317 (0.3%; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.01 to 1.7) in the levonorgestrel group and 0 in 321 (0%; 95% CI, 0 to 1.1) in the copper IUD group; the between-group absolute difference in both analyses was 0.3 percentage points (95% CI, -0.9 to 1.8), consistent with the noninferiority of the levonorgestrel IUD to the copper IUD. Adverse events resulting in participants seeking medical care in the first month after IUD placement occurred in 5.2% of participants in the levonorgestrel IUD group and 4.9% of those in the copper IUD group. CONCLUSIONS The levonorgestrel IUD was noninferior to the copper IUD for emergency contraception. (Supported by the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development and others; ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT02175030.).
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Affiliation(s)
- David K Turok
- From the Division of Family Planning, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (D.K.T., A.G., R.G.S., J.E.K., C.D.S., L.M.G., J.N.S.), and the Division of Epidemiology, Department of Internal Medicine (G.J.S.), University of Utah, Salt Lake City
| | - Alexandra Gero
- From the Division of Family Planning, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (D.K.T., A.G., R.G.S., J.E.K., C.D.S., L.M.G., J.N.S.), and the Division of Epidemiology, Department of Internal Medicine (G.J.S.), University of Utah, Salt Lake City
| | - Rebecca G Simmons
- From the Division of Family Planning, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (D.K.T., A.G., R.G.S., J.E.K., C.D.S., L.M.G., J.N.S.), and the Division of Epidemiology, Department of Internal Medicine (G.J.S.), University of Utah, Salt Lake City
| | - Jennifer E Kaiser
- From the Division of Family Planning, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (D.K.T., A.G., R.G.S., J.E.K., C.D.S., L.M.G., J.N.S.), and the Division of Epidemiology, Department of Internal Medicine (G.J.S.), University of Utah, Salt Lake City
| | - Gregory J Stoddard
- From the Division of Family Planning, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (D.K.T., A.G., R.G.S., J.E.K., C.D.S., L.M.G., J.N.S.), and the Division of Epidemiology, Department of Internal Medicine (G.J.S.), University of Utah, Salt Lake City
| | - Corinne D Sexsmith
- From the Division of Family Planning, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (D.K.T., A.G., R.G.S., J.E.K., C.D.S., L.M.G., J.N.S.), and the Division of Epidemiology, Department of Internal Medicine (G.J.S.), University of Utah, Salt Lake City
| | - Lori M Gawron
- From the Division of Family Planning, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (D.K.T., A.G., R.G.S., J.E.K., C.D.S., L.M.G., J.N.S.), and the Division of Epidemiology, Department of Internal Medicine (G.J.S.), University of Utah, Salt Lake City
| | - Jessica N Sanders
- From the Division of Family Planning, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (D.K.T., A.G., R.G.S., J.E.K., C.D.S., L.M.G., J.N.S.), and the Division of Epidemiology, Department of Internal Medicine (G.J.S.), University of Utah, Salt Lake City
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16
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Bovine sperm-oviduct interactions are characterized by specific sperm behaviour, ultrastructure and tubal reactions which are impacted by sex sorting. Sci Rep 2020; 10:16522. [PMID: 33020549 PMCID: PMC7536416 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-73592-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2020] [Accepted: 09/18/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
To date sperm-oviduct interactions have largely been investigated under in vitro conditions. Therefore we set out to characterize the behaviour of bovine spermatozoa within the sperm reservoir under near in vivo conditions and in real-time using a novel live cell imaging technology and a newly established fluorescent sperm binding assay. Sperm structure and tubal reactions after sperm binding were analysed using scanning and transmission electron microscopy and histochemistry. As a model to specify the impact of stress on sperm-oviduct interactions, frozen-thawed conventional and sex-sorted spermatozoa from the same bulls (n = 7) were co-incubated with oviducts obtained from cows immediately after slaughter. Our studies revealed that within the oviductal sperm reservoir agile (bound at a tangential angle of about 30°, actively beating undulating tail), lagging (bound at a lower angle, reduced tail movement), immotile (absence of tail movement) and hyperactivated (whip-like movement of tail) spermatozoa occur, the prevalence of which changes in a time-dependent pattern. After formation of the sperm reservoir, tubal ciliary beat frequency is significantly increased (p = 0.022) and the epithelial cells show increased activity of endoplasmic reticula. After sex sorting, spermatozoa occasionally display abnormal movement patterns characterized by a 360° rotating head and tail. Sperm binding in the oviduct is significantly reduced (p = 0.008) following sexing. Sex-sorted spermatozoa reveal deformations in the head, sharp bends in the tail and a significantly increased prevalence of damaged mitochondria (p < 0.001). Our results imply that the oviductal cells specifically react to the binding of spermatozoa, maintaining sperm survival within the tubal reservoir. The sex-sorting process, which is associated with mechanical, chemical and time stress, impacts sperm binding to the oviduct and mitochondrial integrity affecting sperm motility and function.
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17
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Gargus ES, Rogers HB, McKinnon KE, Edmonds ME, Woodruff TK. Engineered reproductive tissues. Nat Biomed Eng 2020; 4:381-393. [PMID: 32251392 PMCID: PMC7416444 DOI: 10.1038/s41551-020-0525-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2019] [Accepted: 02/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Engineered male and female biomimetic reproductive tissues are being developed as autonomous in vitro units or as integrated multi-organ in vitro systems to support germ cell and embryo function, and to display characteristic endocrine phenotypic patterns, such as the 28-day human ovulatory cycle. In this Review, we summarize how engineered reproductive tissues facilitate research in reproductive biology, and overview strategies for making engineered reproductive tissues that might eventually allow the restoration of reproductive capacity in patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma S Gargus
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Hunter B Rogers
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Kelly E McKinnon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Maxwell E Edmonds
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Teresa K Woodruff
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA.
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18
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Calegare BFA, Azzolini A, Silva Vallim JR, Turco EGL, Tempaku PF, Silva VC, Tufik S, D'Almeida V. Sleep deprivation decreases the reproductive capacity by affecting the arrival of morulas in the uterus. Genesis 2020; 58:e23350. [DOI: 10.1002/dvg.23350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2019] [Revised: 11/13/2019] [Accepted: 11/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Augusto Azzolini
- Department of UrologyUniversidade Federal de São Paulo São Paulo Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | - Sergio Tufik
- Department of PsychobiologyUniversidade Federal de São Paulo São Paulo Brazil
| | - Vânia D'Almeida
- Department of PsychobiologyUniversidade Federal de São Paulo São Paulo Brazil
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19
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He Y, Qu Y, Jing JC, Chen Z. Characterization of oviduct ciliary beat frequency using real time phase resolved Doppler spectrally encoded interferometric microscopy. BIOMEDICAL OPTICS EXPRESS 2019; 10:5650-5659. [PMID: 31799037 PMCID: PMC6865119 DOI: 10.1364/boe.10.005650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2019] [Revised: 07/31/2019] [Accepted: 08/04/2019] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Ciliary activity, characterized by the coordinated beating of ciliary cells, generates the primary driving force for oviduct tubal transport, which is an essential physiological process for successful pregnancies. Malfunction of the cilium in the fallopian tube, or oviduct, may increase the risk of infertility and tubal pregnancy that can result in maternal death. While many ex-vivo studies have been carried out using bright field microscopy, this technique is not feasible for the in-vivo investigation of oviduct ciliary beating frequency (CBF). Optical coherence tomography (OCT) has been able to provide in-vivo CBF imaging in a mouse model, but its resolution may be insufficient to resolve the spatial and temporal features of the cilium. Our group has recently developed the phase resolved Doppler (PRD) OCT method to visualize ciliary strokes at ultra-high displacement sensitivity. However, the cross-sectional field of view (FOV) may not be ideal for visualizing the surface dynamics of ciliated tissue. In this study, we report on the development of phase resolved Doppler spectrally encoded interferometric microscopy (PRD-SEIM) to visualize the oviduct ciliary activity within an en face FOV. This novel real time imaging system offers micrometer spatial resolution, sub-nanometer displacement sensitivity, and the potential for in-vivo endoscopic adaptation. The feasibility of the approach has been validated through ex-vivo experiments where the porcine oviduct CBF has been measured across different temperature conditions and the application of a drug. CBF ranging from 8 to 12 Hz have been observed at different temperatures, while administration of lidocaine decreased the CBF and deactivated the motile cilia. This study will serve as a stepping stone to in-vivo oviduct ciliary endoscopy and future clinical translations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youmin He
- Beckman Laser Institute, Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Irvine, 1002 Health Sciences Road East, Irvine, CA 92612, USA
- First two authors contributed equally to this study
| | - Yueqiao Qu
- Beckman Laser Institute, Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Irvine, 1002 Health Sciences Road East, Irvine, CA 92612, USA
- First two authors contributed equally to this study
| | - Joseph C. Jing
- Beckman Laser Institute, Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Irvine, 1002 Health Sciences Road East, Irvine, CA 92612, USA
| | - Zhongping Chen
- Beckman Laser Institute, Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Irvine, 1002 Health Sciences Road East, Irvine, CA 92612, USA
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20
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Mulley JF. Greater Loss of Female Embryos During Human Pregnancy: A Novel Mechanism. Bioessays 2019; 41:e1900063. [DOI: 10.1002/bies.201900063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2019] [Revised: 07/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- John F. Mulley
- School of Natural SciencesBangor University Deiniol Road Bangor LL57 2UW UK
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21
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Kerr B, Ríos M, Droguett K, Villalón M. Nitric oxide activation by progesterone suppresses ATP-induced ciliary activity in oviductal ciliated cells. Reprod Fertil Dev 2019; 30:1666-1674. [PMID: 29936934 DOI: 10.1071/rd17450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2017] [Accepted: 05/07/2018] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Ciliary beat frequency (CBF) regulates the oviductal transport of oocytes and embryos, which are important components of the reproductive process. Local release of ATP transiently increases CBF by increasing [Ca2+]i. Ovarian hormones also regulate ciliary activity and oviductal transport. Progesterone (P4) induces nitric oxide (NO) production and high P4 concentrations induce ciliary dysfunction. However, the mechanism by which P4 affects CBF has not been elucidated. To evaluate the role of P4 in NO production and its effect on ATP-induced increases in CBF, we measured CBF, NO concentrations and [Ca2+]i in cultures of oviductal ciliated cells treated with P4 or NO signalling-related molecules. ATP induced a [Ca2+]i peak, followed by an increase in NO concentrations that were temporally correlated with the decreased phase of the transiently increased CBF. Furthermore, P4 increased the expression of nitric oxide synthases (iNOS and nNOS) and reduced the ATP-induced increase in CBF via a mechanism that involves the NO signalling pathway. These results have improved our knowledge about intracellular messengers controlling CBF and showed that NO attenuates oviduct cell functions. Furthermore, we showed that P4 regulates neurotransmitter (ATP) actions on CBF via the NO pathway, which could explain pathologies where oviductal transport is altered and fertility decreased.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bredford Kerr
- Centro de Estudios Científicos, Av. Arturo Prat 514, 5110466, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Mariana Ríos
- Millenium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Departamento de Genética Molecular y Microbiología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Alameda 340, 8331150 Santiago, Chile
| | - Karla Droguett
- Departamento de Ciencias Fisiológicas, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Alameda 340, 8331150 Santiago, Chile
| | - Manuel Villalón
- Departamento de Ciencias Fisiológicas, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Alameda 340, 8331150 Santiago, Chile
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22
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Leisinger C, Klein C, Markle M, Premanandan C, Sones J, Pinto C, Paccamonti D. Altered gene expression in embryos and endometrium collected on day 8 of induced aluteal cycles in mares. Theriogenology 2019; 128:81-90. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2019.01.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2018] [Revised: 01/29/2019] [Accepted: 01/31/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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23
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An oviduct-on-a-chip provides an enhanced in vitro environment for zygote genome reprogramming. Nat Commun 2018; 9:4934. [PMID: 30467383 PMCID: PMC6250703 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-018-07119-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2017] [Accepted: 10/11/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Worldwide over 5 million children have been conceived using assisted reproductive technology, and research has concentrated on increasing the likelihood of ongoing pregnancy. However, studies using animal models have indicated undesirable effects of in vitro embryo culture on offspring development and health. In vivo, the oviduct hosts a period in which the early embryo undergoes complete reprogramming of its (epi)genome in preparation for the reacquisition of (epi)genetic marks. We designed an oviduct-on-a-chip platform to better investigate the mechanisms related to (epi)genetic reprogramming and the degree to which they differ between in vitro and in vivo embryos. The device supports more physiological (in vivo-like) zygote genetic reprogramming than conventional IVF. This approach will be instrumental in identifying and investigating factors critical to fertilization and pre-implantation development, which could improve the quality and (epi)genetic integrity of IVF zygotes with likely relevance for early embryonic and later fetal development.
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24
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Fontes PK, Ereno RL, Peixoto AR, Carvalho RF, Scarano WR, Trinca LA, Barros CM, Castilho ACDS. Can the antral follicular count modulate the gene expression of bovine oviducts in Aberdeen Angus and Nelore heifers? PLoS One 2018; 13:e0202017. [PMID: 30157205 PMCID: PMC6114296 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0202017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2017] [Accepted: 07/26/2018] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The number of visible ovarian antral follicles (antral follicle count—AFC) is repeatable in bovine individuals, but highly variable between animals, and with differences between Bos taurus and Bos indicus breeds. Several studies have tried to determine the correlation between AFC and increased fertility in cattle. While the impacts of AFC on embryo production, hormonal levels, and pregnancy rates have been described, the molecular effects of AFC on bovine oviducts have not yet been investigated. Here, the aim was to investigate the impact of breeds, such as Aberdeen Angus and Nelore heifer with high or low AFC, on abundance of transcripts and protein related to oviductal transport, sperm reservoir formation, monospermy control, and gamete interaction in the oviducts. In summary, the ovulation side was the major factor that affected transcript abundance on bovine oviducts. However, a discreet effect among AFC and cattle breeds was also observed. Based on this, we concluded and reinforced here that differential microenvironments between ipsilateral and contralateral oviducts have a major effect on modulating the transcripts related to oviductal transport, sperm reservoir formation, monospermy control, and gamete interaction. However, we cannot exclude that there is minimal effect of AFC or breed on regulation of some genes (such as AGTR1, ACE1, FUCA1, and VEGFA) in bovine oviducts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia Kubo Fontes
- Departament of Pharmacology, Institute of Biosciences, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ronaldo Luis Ereno
- Departament of Pharmacology, Institute of Biosciences, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - André Rebello Peixoto
- Departament of Morphology, Institute of Biosciences, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Robson Francisco Carvalho
- Departament of Morphology, Institute of Biosciences, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Wellerson Rodrigo Scarano
- Departament of Morphology, Institute of Biosciences, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Luzia Aparecida Trinca
- Departament of Biostatistic, Institute of Biosciences, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ciro Moraes Barros
- Departament of Pharmacology, Institute of Biosciences, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
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Nelis H, Wojciechowicz B, Franczak A, Leemans B, D'Herde K, Goossens K, Cornillie P, Peelman L, Van Soom A, Smits K. Steroids affect gene expression, ciliary activity, glucose uptake, progesterone receptor expression and immunoreactive steroidogenic protein expression in equine oviduct explants in vitro. Reprod Fertil Dev 2018; 28:1926-1944. [PMID: 26085435 DOI: 10.1071/rd15044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2015] [Accepted: 05/25/2015] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The oviduct undergoes dramatic functional and morphological changes throughout the oestrous cycle of the mare. To unravel the effects of steroids on the morphology, functionality and gene expression of the equine oviduct, an in vitro oviduct explant culture system was stimulated with physiological concentrations of progesterone and 17β-oestradiol. Four conditions were compared: unsupplemented preovulatory explants, preovulatory explants that were stimulated with postovulatory hormone concentrations, unsupplemented postovulatory explants and postovulatory explants that were stimulated with preovulatory hormone concentrations. The modulating effects of both steroids on oviduct explants were investigated and the following parameters examined: (1) ciliary activity, (2) glucose consumption and lactate production pattern, (3) ultrastructure, (4) mRNA expression of embryotrophic genes, (5) steroidogenic capacities of oviductal explants and (6) progesterone receptor expression. The present paper shows that the equine oviduct is an organ with potential steroidogenic capacities, which is highly responsive to local changes in progesterone and 17β-oestradiol concentrations at the level of morphology, functionality and gene expression of the oviduct. These data provide a basis to study the importance of endocrine and paracrine signalling during early embryonic development in the horse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hilde Nelis
- Ghent University, Department of Reproduction, Obstetrics and Herd Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Salisburylaan 133, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Bartosz Wojciechowicz
- University of Warmia and Mazury, Department of Animal Physiology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, Oczapowskiego St. 1A, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Anita Franczak
- University of Warmia and Mazury, Department of Animal Physiology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, Oczapowskiego St. 1A, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Bart Leemans
- Ghent University, Department of Reproduction, Obstetrics and Herd Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Salisburylaan 133, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Katharina D'Herde
- Ghent University, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, De Pintelaan 185 4B3, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Karen Goossens
- Ghent University, Department of Nutrition, Genetics and Ethology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Heidestraat 19, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Pieter Cornillie
- Ghent University, Department of Morphology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Salisburylaan 133, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Luc Peelman
- Ghent University, Department of Nutrition, Genetics and Ethology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Heidestraat 19, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Ann Van Soom
- Ghent University, Department of Reproduction, Obstetrics and Herd Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Salisburylaan 133, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Katrien Smits
- Ghent University, Department of Reproduction, Obstetrics and Herd Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Salisburylaan 133, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
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Binelli M, Gonella-Diaza AM, Mesquita FS, Membrive CMB. Sex Steroid-Mediated Control of Oviductal Function in Cattle. BIOLOGY 2018; 7:E15. [PMID: 29393864 PMCID: PMC5872041 DOI: 10.3390/biology7010015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2017] [Revised: 01/10/2018] [Accepted: 01/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
In cattle, the oviduct is a tubular organ that connects the ovary and the uterus. The oviduct lumen stages a dynamic set of cellular and molecular interactions to fulfill the noble role of generating a new individual. Specific anatomical niches along the oviduct lumen provide the appropriate microenvironment for final sperm capacitation, oocyte capture and fertilization, and early embryo development and transport. To accomplish such complex tasks, the oviduct undergoes spatially and temporally-regulated morphological, biochemical, and physiological changes that are associated with endocrine events of the estrous cycle. Specifically, elevated periovulatory concentrations of estradiol (E2) and progesterone (P4) influence gene expression and morphological changes that have been associated positively to fertility in beef cattle. In this review, we explore how E2 and P4 influence oviductal function in the beginning of the estrous cycle, and prepare the oviductal lumen for interactions with gametes and embryos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Binelli
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, PO Box 110910, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA.
| | - Angela Maria Gonella-Diaza
- Departamento de Reprodução Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Rua Duque de Caxias Norte, 255, Bairro: Jardim Elite, Pirassununga 13635-900, SP, Brazil.
| | - Fernando Silveira Mesquita
- Curso de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Pampa, UNIPAMPA, BR 472-Km 592, Uruguaiana 97508-000, RS, Brazil.
| | - Claudia Maria Bertan Membrive
- Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias Tecnológicas-FCAT, Universidade Estadual Paulista "Júlio de Mesquita", Rodovia Comandante João Ribeiro de Barros (SP 294), Km 651, Dracena 17900-000, SP, Brazil.
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Morphological evaluation of Day 8 embryos developed during induced aluteal cycles in the mare. Theriogenology 2018; 105:178-183. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2017.09.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2017] [Revised: 08/10/2017] [Accepted: 09/19/2017] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
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Wang S, Larina IV. In Vivo Imaging of the Mouse Reproductive Organs, Embryo Transfer, and Oviduct Cilia Dynamics Using Optical Coherence Tomography. Methods Mol Biol 2018; 1752:53-62. [PMID: 29564761 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-7714-7_5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The oviduct (or fallopian tube) serves as the site where a number of major reproductive events occur for the start of a new life in mammals. Understanding the oviduct physiology is essential to uncover hidden mechanisms of the human reproduction and its disorders, yet the current analysis of the oviduct that is largely limited to in vitro imaging is a significant technical hurdle. To overcome this barrier, we have recently developed in vivo approaches based on optical coherence tomography for structural and functional imaging of the mouse oviduct. In this chapter, we describe the details of such live imaging methods that allow for three-dimensional visualization of the oviduct wall morphology, microscale mapping of the oviduct cilia beat frequency, and high-resolution observation of the cumulus-oocyte complex at the cellular level. We expect this set of imaging tools will enable novel studies toward a comprehensive knowledge of the mammalian reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shang Wang
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Irina V Larina
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.
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Abstract
Multiciliated cells are epithelial cells that are in contact with bodily fluids and are required for the proper function of major organs including the brain, the respiratory system and the reproductive tracts. Their multiple motile cilia beat unidirectionally to remove particles of external origin from their surface and/or drive cells or fluids into the lumen of the organs. Multiciliated cells in the brain are produced once, almost exclusively during embryonic development, whereas in respiratory tracts and oviducts they regenerate throughout life. In this Review, we provide a cell-to-organ overview of multiciliated cells and highlight recent studies that have greatly increased our understanding of the mechanisms driving the development and function of these cells in vertebrates. We discuss cell fate determination and differentiation of multiciliated cells, and provide a comprehensive account of their locations and functions in mammals.
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30
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Li S, Winuthayanon W. Oviduct: roles in fertilization and early embryo development. J Endocrinol 2017; 232:R1-R26. [PMID: 27875265 DOI: 10.1530/joe-16-0302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 151] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2016] [Accepted: 10/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Animal oviducts and human Fallopian tubes are a part of the female reproductive tract that hosts fertilization and pre-implantation development of the embryo. With an increasing understanding of roles of the oviduct at the cellular and molecular levels, current research signifies the importance of the oviduct on naturally conceived fertilization and pre-implantation embryo development. This review highlights the physiological conditions within the oviduct during fertilization, environmental regulation, oviductal fluid composition and its role in protecting embryos and supplying nutrients. Finally, the review compares different aspects of naturally occurring fertilization and assisted reproductive technology (ART)-achieved fertilization and embryo development, giving insight into potential areas for improvement in this technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuai Li
- School of Molecular BiosciencesCollege of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA
| | - Wipawee Winuthayanon
- School of Molecular BiosciencesCollege of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA
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Zhao W, Zhu Q, Yan M, Li C, Yuan J, Qin G, Zhang J. Levonorgestrel decreases cilia beat frequency of human fallopian tubes and rat oviducts without changing morphological structure. Clin Exp Pharmacol Physiol 2015; 42:171-8. [PMID: 25399777 PMCID: PMC6680194 DOI: 10.1111/1440-1681.12337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2014] [Revised: 10/25/2014] [Accepted: 11/05/2014] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Levonorgestrel, a derivative of progesterone, effectively protects women against unwanted pregnancy as an emergency contraceptive. Previous studies have not been successful in determining the mechanism by which levonorgestrel acts. In the present study we analysed cilia beat action and cilia morphology following levonorgestrel exposure in vitro and in vivo using both light and electron microscopy. There was a significant decrease in the ciliary beat frequency (CBF) of human fallopian tubes between mucosal explants bathed in 5 μmol/L levonorgestrel and those bathed in medium alone (P < 0.05). There was a tendency for CBF to decrease more in the ampulla than in isthmus, but there were no differences between the proliferative and secretory phases. In rat oviducts, levonorgestrel produced a similar reduction in CBF (~ 10%) compared with the saline control group (P < 0.05). Histological and ultrastructural analysis demonstrated no changes in the percentage of ciliated cells or in the classic '9 + 2' structure of cilia following levonorgestrel treatment in either system. Thus, levonorgestrel reduces CBF without damaging cilia morphology. Decreases in CBF may indicate a pathological role for levonorgestrel in the transportation of the ovum and zygote in the fallopian tube.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weihong Zhao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital/School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, China
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Wang S, Burton JC, Behringer RR, Larina IV. In vivo micro-scale tomography of ciliary behavior in the mammalian oviduct. Sci Rep 2015; 5:13216. [PMID: 26279472 PMCID: PMC4538602 DOI: 10.1038/srep13216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2015] [Accepted: 07/21/2015] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Motile cilia in the mammalian oviduct play a key role in reproduction, such as transporting fertilized oocytes to the uterus for implantation. Due to their small size (~5-10 μm in length and ~300 nm in diameter), live visualization of cilia and their activity in the lumen of the oviduct through tissue layers represents a major challenge not yet overcome. Here, we report a functional low-coherence optical imaging technique that allows in vivo depth-resolved mapping of the cilia location and cilia beat frequency (CBF) in the intact mouse oviduct with micro-scale spatial resolution. We validate our approach with widely-used microscopic imaging methods, present the first in vivo mapping of the oviduct CBF in its native context, and demonstrate the ability of this approach to differentiate CBF in different locations of the oviduct at different post-conception stages. This technique opens a range of opportunities for live studies in reproductive medicine as well as other areas focused on cilia activity and related ciliopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shang Wang
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Jason C Burton
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Richard R Behringer
- Department of Genetics, University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Irina V Larina
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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Cerny KL, Garrett E, Walton AJ, Anderson LH, Bridges PJ. A transcriptomal analysis of bovine oviductal epithelial cells collected during the follicular phase versus the luteal phase of the estrous cycle. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2015; 13:84. [PMID: 26242217 PMCID: PMC4524109 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-015-0077-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2014] [Accepted: 07/13/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Reproductive success depends on a functional oviduct for gamete storage, maturation, fertilization, and early embryonic development. The ovarian-derived steroids estrogen and progesterone are key regulators of oviductal function. The objective of this study was to investigate luteal and follicular phase-specific oviductal epithelial cell function by using microarray-based transcriptional profiling, to increase our understanding of mRNAs regulating epithelial cell processes, and to identify novel genes and biochemical pathways that may be found to affect fertility in the future. METHODS Six normally cycling Angus heifers were assigned to either luteal phase (LP, n = 3) or follicular phase (FP, n = 3) treatment groups. Heifers in the LP group were killed between day 11 and 12 after estrus. Heifers in the FP group were treated with 25 mg PGF2α (Lutalyse, Pfizer, NY) at 8 pm on day 6 after estrus and killed 36 h later. Transcriptional profiling by microarray and confirmation of selected mRNAs by real-time RT-PCR analyses was performed using total RNA from epithelial cells isolated from sections of the ampulla and isthmus collected from LP and FP treatment groups. Differentially expressed genes were subjected to gene ontology classification and bioinformatic pathway analyses. RESULTS Statistical one-way ANOVA using Benjamini-hochberg multiple testing correction for false discovery rate (FDR) and pairwise comparison of epithelial cells in the ampulla of FP versus LP groups revealed 972 and 597 transcripts up- and down-regulated, respectively (P < 0.05). Within epithelial cells of the isthmus in FP versus LP groups, 946 and 817 transcripts were up- and down-regulated, respectively (P < 0.05). Up-regulated genes from both ampulla and isthmus were found to be largely involved in cholesterol biosynthesis and cell cycle pathways, while down-regulated genes were found in numerous inflammatory response pathways. CONCLUSIONS Microarray-based transcriptional profiling revealed phase of the cycle-dependent changes in the expression of mRNA within the epithelium of the oviducts' ampulla and isthmus.
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Affiliation(s)
- K L Cerny
- Department of Animal and Food Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, 40546, KY, USA.
| | - E Garrett
- Department of Animal and Food Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, 40546, KY, USA.
| | - A J Walton
- Department of Animal and Food Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, 40546, KY, USA.
| | - L H Anderson
- Department of Animal and Food Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, 40546, KY, USA.
| | - P J Bridges
- Department of Animal and Food Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, 40546, KY, USA.
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Burton JC, Wang S, Stewart CA, Behringer RR, Larina IV. High-resolution three-dimensional in vivo imaging of mouse oviduct using optical coherence tomography. BIOMEDICAL OPTICS EXPRESS 2015; 6:2713-2723. [PMID: 26203393 PMCID: PMC4505721 DOI: 10.1364/boe.6.002713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2015] [Revised: 06/18/2015] [Accepted: 06/19/2015] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
The understanding of the reproductive events and the molecular mechanisms regulating fertility and infertility in humans relies heavily on the analysis of the corresponding phenotypes in mouse models. While molecular genetic approaches provide significant insight into the molecular regulation of these processes, the lack of live imaging methods that allow for detailed visualization of the mouse reproductive organs limits our investigations of dynamic events taking place during the ovulation, the fertilization and the pre-implantation stages of embryonic development. Here we introduce an in vivo three-dimensional imaging approach for visualizing the mouse oviduct and reproductive events with micro-scale spatial resolution using optical coherence tomography (OCT). This method relies on the natural tissue optical contrast and does not require the application of any contrast agents. For the first time, we present live high-resolution images of the internal structural features of the oviduct, as well as other reproductive organs and the oocytes surrounded by cumulus cells. These results provide the basis for a wide range of live dynamic studies focused on understanding fertility and infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason C. Burton
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, Texas, 77030, USA
- Equal Contribution
| | - Shang Wang
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, Texas, 77030, USA
- Equal Contribution
| | - C. Allison Stewart
- Department of Genetics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd., Houston, Texas, 77030, USA
| | - Richard R. Behringer
- Department of Genetics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd., Houston, Texas, 77030, USA
| | - Irina V. Larina
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, Texas, 77030, USA
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Expression Pattern and Localization Dynamics of Guanine Nucleotide Exchange Factor RIC8 during Mouse Oogenesis. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0129131. [PMID: 26062014 PMCID: PMC4465189 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0129131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2013] [Accepted: 05/05/2015] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Targeting of G proteins to the cell cortex and their activation is one of the triggers of both asymmetric and symmetric cell division. Resistance to inhibitors of cholinesterase 8 (RIC8), a guanine nucleotide exchange factor, activates a certain subgroup of G protein α-subunits in a receptor independent manner. RIC8 controls the asymmetric cell division in Caenorhabditis elegans and Drosophila melanogaster, and symmetric cell division in cultured mammalian cells, where it regulates the mitotic spindle orientation. Although intensely studied in mitosis, the function of RIC8 in mammalian meiosis has remained unknown. Here we demonstrate that the expression and subcellular localization of RIC8 changes profoundly during mouse oogenesis. Immunofluorescence studies revealed that RIC8 expression is dependent on oocyte growth and cell cycle phase. During oocyte growth, RIC8 is abundantly present in cytoplasm of oocytes at primordial, primary and secondary preantral follicle stages. Later, upon oocyte maturation RIC8 also populates the germinal vesicle, its localization becomes cell cycle dependent, and it associates with chromatin and the meiotic spindle. After fertilization, RIC8 protein converges to the pronuclei and is also detectable at high levels in the nucleolus precursor bodies of both maternal and paternal pronucleus. During first cleavage of zygote RIC8 localizes in the mitotic spindle and cell cortex of forming blastomeres. In addition, we demonstrate that RIC8 co-localizes with its interaction partners Gαi1/2:GDP and LGN in meiotic/mitotic spindle, cell cortex and polar bodies of maturing oocytes and zygotes. Downregulation of Ric8 by siRNA leads to interferred translocation of Gαi1/2 to cortical region of maturing oocytes and reduction of its levels. RIC8 is also expressed at high level in female reproductive organs e.g. oviduct. Therefore we suggest a regulatory function for RIC8 in mammalian gametogenesis and fertility.
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Bylander A, Gunnarsson L, Shao R, Billig H, Larsson DGJ. Progesterone-mediated effects on gene expression and oocyte-cumulus complex transport in the mouse fallopian tube. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2015; 13:40. [PMID: 25967158 PMCID: PMC4450483 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-015-0038-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2014] [Accepted: 04/30/2015] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The fallopian tube transports the gametes to the fertilization site and delivers the embryo to the uterus at the optimal time for implantation. Progesterone and the classical progesterone receptor are involved in regulating both tubal ciliary beating and muscular contractions, likely via both genomic and non-genomic actions. METHODS To provide more details of the underlying mechanisms, we investigated the effect of progesterone on gene expression in mice fallopian tubes in vitro at 20 min, 2 h and 8 h post progesterone treatment using microarray and/or quantitative PCR. In parallel, oocyte cumulus complex transport was investigated in ovulating mice that were injected with one of the progesterone receptor antagonists, Org 31710 or CDB2194. RESULTS Microarray analyses did not reveal any apparently regulated genes 20 min after progesterone treatment, consistent with the proposed non-genomic action of progesterone controlling ciliary beating. After 2 h, 11 genes were identified as up-regulated. Analyses using quantitative PCR at 2 h and 8 h showed a consistent up-regulation of endothelin1 and a down-regulation of its receptor Endothelin receptor A by progesterone. We also confirmed that treatment with progesterone receptor antagonists before ovulation accelerates the transport of the oocyte cumulus complex. CONCLUSIONS This is the first study showing that progesterone regulates the expression of endothelin1 and endothelin receptor A in the fallopian tube. Together with previous studies of the effects of endothelin on muscular contractions in the fallopian tube, the results from this study suggest that endothelin is a mediator of the progesterone-controlled effects on muscular contraction and eventually gamete transport in the fallopian tube.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Bylander
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Institute of Biomedicine, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Guldhedsgatan 10, SE-413 46, Gothenburg, Sweden.
| | - Lina Gunnarsson
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Institute of Biomedicine, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Guldhedsgatan 10, SE-413 46, Gothenburg, Sweden.
| | - Ruijin Shao
- Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, the Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Box 454, SE-405 30, Gothenburg, Sweden.
| | - Håkan Billig
- Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, the Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Box 454, SE-405 30, Gothenburg, Sweden.
| | - D G Joakim Larsson
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Institute of Biomedicine, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Guldhedsgatan 10, SE-413 46, Gothenburg, Sweden.
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Ezzati M, Djahanbakhch O, Arian S, Carr BR. Tubal transport of gametes and embryos: a review of physiology and pathophysiology. J Assist Reprod Genet 2014; 31:1337-47. [PMID: 25117646 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-014-0309-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2014] [Accepted: 07/22/2014] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
With the advent of assisted reproductive technology in the past three decades, the clinical importance of fallopian tubes has been relatively overlooked. However, successful spontaneous conception requires normal function of the tube to provide not only a conduit for the gametes to convene and embryo to reach the uterine cavity, but also a physiologically optimized environment for fertilization and early embryonic development. In this review, after a brief description of normal human tubal anatomy and histology, we will discuss tubal transport and its principal effectors, including ciliary motion, muscular contractility and tubal fluid. Furthermore, we will discuss the ciliary ultrastructure and regulation of ciliary beat frequency by ovarian steroids, follicular fluid, angiotensin system, autonomic nervous system and other factors such as adrenomedullin and prostaglandins. In the last section, we describe the adverse impact of various pathological conditions, such as endometriosis, infection and smoking on tubal function and ciliary motility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Ezzati
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd, Dallas, TX, 75390-9032, USA,
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Roy Y, Sivathanu V, Das SK. Effect of bunching of cilia and their interplay on muco-ciliary transport. Comput Biol Med 2013; 43:1758-72. [PMID: 24209922 PMCID: PMC7094451 DOI: 10.1016/j.compbiomed.2013.08.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2012] [Revised: 07/09/2013] [Accepted: 08/18/2013] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Cilia are hair-like organelles projecting from a eukaryotic cell, used either for locomotion or as sensors. Cilia commonly occur in patches. To take this into consideration, we represent cilia in multiple patches, instead of the conventional ‘dense mat’ representation. We focus on the combined action and interplay of these patches. The effects of varying the frequency, spacing and phase lag of the beating of one cilia bunch with respect to the beating of adjacent patches are studied. We model the Airway Surface Liquid (ASL) as a three-layer structure. The possibility of an optimum frequency of beating is noted and the change of mucous flow under different spacing and phase differences are observed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yagnaseni Roy
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, SRM University, Chennai 603203, India
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Bylander A, Lind K, Goksör M, Billig H, Larsson DGJ. The classical progesterone receptor mediates the rapid reduction of fallopian tube ciliary beat frequency by progesterone. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2013; 11:33. [PMID: 23651709 PMCID: PMC3651731 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-11-33] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2012] [Accepted: 04/29/2013] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The transport of gametes as well as the zygote is facilitated by motile cilia lining the inside of the fallopian tube. Progesterone reduces the ciliary beat frequency within 30 minutes in both cows and mice. This rapid reduction suggest the involvement of a non-genomic signaling mechanism, although it is not known which receptors that are involved. Here we investigated the possible involvement of the classical progesterone receptor in this process. METHOD The ciliary beat frequency of mice fallopian tube was measured ex vivo using an inverted bright field microscope and a high speed camera. The effects of the agonists progesterone and promegestone and an antagonist, mifeprestone, were investigated in wildtype mice. The effect of progesterone was also investigated in mice lacking the classical progesterone receptor. RESULTS Progesterone, as well as the more specific PR agonist promegestone, significantly reduced the CBF at concentrations of 10-100 nanomolar within 10-30 minutes. In the absence of progesterone, the PR antagonist mifeprestone had no effect on the ciliary beat frequency at a concentration of 1 micromolar. When ciliated cells were pre-incubated with 1 micromolar mifeprestone, addition of progesterone did not reduce the ciliary beat frequency. Accordingly, in ciliated cells from mice not expressing the classical progesterone receptor, exposure to 100 nanomolar progesterone did not reduce the ciliary beat frequency. CONCLUSIONS This is the first study to provide comprehensive evidence that the classical progesterone receptor mediates the rapid reduction of the tubal ciliary beat frequency by progesterone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Bylander
- Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, the Sahlgrenska Academy , University of Gothenburg, SE-405 30 Göteborg, Sweden
| | - Karin Lind
- Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, the Sahlgrenska Academy , University of Gothenburg, SE-405 30 Göteborg, Sweden
| | - Mattias Goksör
- Department of Physics, University of Gothenburg, SE-412 96 Göteborg, Sweden
| | - Håkan Billig
- Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, the Sahlgrenska Academy , University of Gothenburg, SE-405 30 Göteborg, Sweden
| | - DG Joakim Larsson
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Institute of Biomedicine, the Sahlgrenska academy, University of Gothenburg, Guldhedsgatan 10, SE-413 46 Göteborg, Sweden
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Jain R, Javidan-Nejad C, Alexander-Brett J, Horani A, Cabellon MC, Walter MJ, Brody SL. Sensory functions of motile cilia and implication for bronchiectasis. Front Biosci (Schol Ed) 2012; 4:1088-98. [PMID: 22202111 DOI: 10.2741/s320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Cilia are specialized organelles that extend from the cell surface into the local environment. Cilia of the airway epithelia are motile to provide mucociliary clearance. On other cells, solitary cilia are specialized to detect chemical or mechanosensory signals. Sensory proteins in motile cilia have recently been identified that detect fluid flow, bitter taste and sex hormones. The relationship of these sensory functions in motile cilia to disease is now being revealed. An example are the polycystin-1 and polycystin-2 proteins that function as a flow sensor in kidney cilia and are mutated in autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD). These polycystins are also expressed in motile cilia, potentially operating as sensors in the lung. Computed tomography studies from patients with ADPKD reveal evidence of bronchiectasis, suggesting polycystins are important in lung function. The motile cilia expression of this protein complex, as well as sensory channel TRPV4, bitter taste and sex hormones receptors, indicate that the cilia is wired to interpret environmental cues. Defective signaling of sensory proteins may result in a ciliopathy that includes lung disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raksha Jain
- Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Understanding the cause of tubal ectopic pregnancy (tEP) remains incomplete. We aim to summarize the latest advances in laboratory models of tEP that we believe will, ultimately, contribute to improving the diagnosis and management of the condition. RECENT FINDINGS Progress in proteome prefractionation and multidimensional protein identification technology has proved particularly effective in identifying novel biomarkers of tEP. These, and related global proteomic and genomic approaches, have as yet to be fully exploited in this context but do have substantial potential to inform future hypothesis-driven studies. The majority of data generated since 2009 to explain the cause of tEP continues to derive from descriptive human ex-vivo studies. In-vitro models of fallopian tube ciliary and smooth muscle function have improved to a limited degree, on the back of continuing advances in imaging and data acquisition. We believe that the recent development of a primary human fallopian tube epithelium culture system represents the most significant recent advance in laboratory models for studying ectopic pregnancy. There remain no good animal models of tEP. SUMMARY The establishment of a viable animal model of tEP remains the key obstacle to a complete understanding of the cause of the condition.
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Jain R, Ray JM, Pan JH, Brody SL. Sex hormone-dependent regulation of cilia beat frequency in airway epithelium. Am J Respir Cell Mol Biol 2011; 46:446-53. [PMID: 22033264 DOI: 10.1165/rcmb.2011-0107oc] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous studies have demonstrated a female disadvantage in airway diseases, such as asthma and bronchiectasis. The basis for this sex disparity is unknown. We hypothesized that the female sex hormone, progesterone (P4), inhibits functions of the normal airway mucociliary apparatus. P4 receptor (PR) expression was evaluated in human lung and cultured primary human airway epithelial cells isolated from male and female lung transplant donors. PR expression was restricted to the proximal region of the cilia of airway epithelia, and was similar in men and women. Expression of isoform PR-B was more abundant than PR-A in cells from both sexes. Airway epithelial cell exposure to P4 decreased cilia beat frequency (CBF) by 42.3% (±7.2). Inhibition of CBF was prevented by coadministration of P4 with the active form of estrogen, 17β-estradiol, or the PR antagonist, mifepristone. P4 inhibition was time and dose dependent, with a significant decrease by 8 hours and maximal effect at 24 hours, accompanied by translocation of PR from the cilia to the nucleus. Inhibition of cilia beat was also prevented by treatment of cells with actinomycin D, suggesting that CBF inhibition is a transcriptionally mediated event. Together, these findings indicate that sex hormones influence the function of a key component of the mucociliary apparatus. These mechanisms may contribute to the sex disparity present in airway diseases and provide therapeutic targets for the treatment of these debilitating airway diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raksha Jain
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA.
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Abstract
An appropriately developed and functional reproductive tract is essential for the natural production of offspring. However, abnormal development or disease, either within or external to the reproductive tract, can cause considerable morbidity and mortality. This Review describes the normal function of each section of the female reproductive tract. Some of the major conditions and diseases that cause reproductive tract dysfunction in women of reproductive age are reviewed, with a focus on endocrine-related dysfunction. As the female reproductive tract is vital for the continuation of the human species, it is crucial to have an improved understanding of how the cells and tissues of this system interact under normal conditions and to define how hormonal and genetic abnormalities cause pathophysiologic derangement of reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angshumoy Roy
- Department of Pathology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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Shi D, Komatsu K, Uemura T, Fujimori T. Analysis of ciliary beat frequency and ovum transport ability in the mouse oviduct. Genes Cells 2011; 16:282-90. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2443.2011.01484.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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