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Ru Y, Deng X, Chen J, Zhang L, Xu Z, Lv Q, Long S, Huang Z, Kong M, Guo J, Jiang M. Maternal age enhances purifying selection on pathogenic mutations in complex I genes of mammalian mtDNA. NATURE AGING 2024:10.1038/s43587-024-00672-6. [PMID: 39075271 DOI: 10.1038/s43587-024-00672-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2024] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024]
Abstract
Mitochondrial diseases, caused mainly by pathogenic mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) mutations, pose major challenges due to the lack of effective treatments. Investigating the patterns of maternal transmission of mitochondrial diseases could pave the way for preventive approaches. In this study, we used DddA-derived cytosine base editors (DdCBEs) to generate two mouse models, each haboring a single pathogenic mutation in complex I genes (ND1 and ND5), replicating those found in human patients. Our findings revealed that both mutations are under strong purifying selection during maternal transmission and occur predominantly during postnatal oocyte maturation, with increased protein synthesis playing a vital role. Interestingly, we discovered that maternal age intensifies the purifying selection, suggesting that older maternal age may offer a protective effect against the transmission of deleterious mtDNA mutations, contradicting the conventional notion that maternal age correlates with increased transmitted mtDNA mutations. As collecting comprehensive clinical data is needed to understand the relationship between maternal age and transmission patterns in humans, our findings may have profound implications for reproductive counseling of mitochondrial diseases, especially those involving complex I gene mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanfei Ru
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences,Westlake University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoling Deng
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences,Westlake University, Hangzhou, China
- Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiatong Chen
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences,Westlake University, Hangzhou, China
- College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Leping Zhang
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences,Westlake University, Hangzhou, China
- College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhe Xu
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences,Westlake University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Qunyu Lv
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences,Westlake University, Hangzhou, China
- College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shiyun Long
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences,Westlake University, Hangzhou, China
- College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zijian Huang
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences,Westlake University, Hangzhou, China
- Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Minghua Kong
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences,Westlake University, Hangzhou, China
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jing Guo
- Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive Engineering, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Min Jiang
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Hangzhou, China.
- Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences,Westlake University, Hangzhou, China.
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, China.
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Zaniker EJ, Hashim PH, Gauthier S, Ankrum JA, Campo H, Duncan FE. Three-Dimensionally Printed Agarose Micromold Supports Scaffold-Free Mouse Ex Vivo Follicle Growth, Ovulation, and Luteinization. Bioengineering (Basel) 2024; 11:719. [PMID: 39061801 PMCID: PMC11274170 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering11070719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2024] [Revised: 07/08/2024] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Ex vivo follicle growth is an essential tool, enabling interrogation of folliculogenesis, ovulation, and luteinization. Though significant advancements have been made, existing follicle culture strategies can be technically challenging and laborious. In this study, we advanced the field through development of a custom agarose micromold, which enables scaffold-free follicle culture. We established an accessible and economical manufacturing method using 3D printing and silicone molding that generates biocompatible hydrogel molds without the risk of cytotoxicity from leachates. Each mold supports simultaneous culture of multiple multilayer secondary follicles in a single focal plane, allowing for constant timelapse monitoring and automated analysis. Mouse follicles cultured using this novel system exhibit significantly improved growth and ovulation outcomes with comparable survival, oocyte maturation, and hormone production profiles as established three-dimensional encapsulated in vitro follicle growth (eIVFG) systems. Additionally, follicles recapitulated aspects of in vivo ovulation physiology with respect to their architecture and spatial polarization, which has not been observed in eIVFG systems. This system offers simplicity, scalability, integration with morphokinetic analyses of follicle growth and ovulation, and compatibility with existing microphysiological platforms. This culture strategy has implications for fundamental follicle biology, fertility preservation strategies, reproductive toxicology, and contraceptive drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily J. Zaniker
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA; (E.J.Z.); (P.H.H.); (S.G.)
| | - Prianka H. Hashim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA; (E.J.Z.); (P.H.H.); (S.G.)
| | - Samuel Gauthier
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA; (E.J.Z.); (P.H.H.); (S.G.)
| | - James A. Ankrum
- Roy J. Carver Department of Biomedical Engineering, Pappajohn Biomedical Institute, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52245, USA;
| | - Hannes Campo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA; (E.J.Z.); (P.H.H.); (S.G.)
| | - Francesca E. Duncan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA; (E.J.Z.); (P.H.H.); (S.G.)
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Vinogradov R, Muthupunnackal A, Moffat M, Rankin J. Genitourinary infection and gastroschisis: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Birth Defects Res 2024; 116:e2377. [PMID: 38946111 DOI: 10.1002/bdr2.2377] [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: 03/26/2024] [Revised: 05/24/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gastroschisis is a congenital anomaly of the umbilical ring with increasing prevalence, especially amongst younger mothers. There is increasing evidence that exposure to genitourinary infections (GUTI) may play an important role in the etiology of gastroschisis. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to identify, appraise, and summarize the literature on exposure to GUTI and gastroschisis. METHODS Six electronic databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, Scopus, Cochrane Library electronic databases, and Prospero) were searched using a comprehensive search strategy. Citations and cited articles for all included studies were searched. Peer-reviewed, quantitative studies reporting an association of urinary tract infections (UTI) and/or sexually transmitted infections (STI) with gastroschisis were included. Prospero registration CRD42022377420. RESULTS A total of 2392 papers were identified via the searches of which 15 met our inclusion criteria and were included after title and abstract and full text screening. The study period for included studies ranged from 1995 to 2016, most were from the USA. Four studies considering exposure to STIs and five to UTIs were eligible to progress to meta-analysis. Meta-analysis identified a significantly increased risk of gastroschisis in association with periconceptional exposure to UTI [OR 1.54 (95% CI 1.29, 1.8)], STI [OR 1.4 (95% CI 1.01, 1.79)]. CONCLUSIONS Periconceptional exposure to GUTI is associated with an increased risk of gastroschisis. The prevention and timely treatment of GUTI amongst women of childbearing age may help to reduce the occurrence of gastroschisis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raya Vinogradov
- Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
- Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
- NIHR Applied Research Collaboration (ARC) North East and North Cumbria (NENC), Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | | | - Malcolm Moffat
- Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Judith Rankin
- Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
- NIHR Applied Research Collaboration (ARC) North East and North Cumbria (NENC), Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
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Park HS, Seok J, Cetin E, Ghasroldasht MM, Liakath Ali F, Mohammed H, Alkelani H, Al-Hendy A. Fertility protection: a novel approach using pretreatment with mesenchymal stem cell exosomes to prevent chemotherapy-induced ovarian damage in a mouse model. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2024; 231:111.e1-111.e18. [PMID: 38378099 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2024.02.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Primary ovarian insufficiency refers to the loss of ovarian function before the age of 40 years and leads to amenorrhea and infertility. Primary ovarian insufficiency has diverse causes, but a common cause is exposure to gonadotoxic chemotherapy used in cancer treatment. Because of the risk for developing primary ovarian insufficiency, patients who want to preserve their fertility may consider various procedures for fertility preservation. However, current fertility preservation options are highly invasive, carry substantial risks, and have uncertain success rates. Recent studies from our group and others reported that mesenchymal stem cells and mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes can restore ovarian function in preclinical models of primary ovarian insufficiency by restoring damaged cells and inhibiting apoptosis. Although the restorative effect of mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes has been well reported in previous studies, the potential of mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes in preventing ovarian damage has not been fully elucidated. OBJECTIVE This study hypothesized that the antiapoptotic potential of mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes may protect ovarian tissue from chemotherapy-induced damage. STUDY DESIGN In this study, we delivered mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes directly into the ovaries of mice before administration of chemotherapy. A total of 60 mice were divided into 3 groups (20 per group), which were labeled the control, chemotherapy, and fertility protection groups. Only the fertility protection group mice received exosomes, whereas the control and chemotherapy group mice received saline. After exosome injection, the chemotherapy and fertility protection groups of mice were subjected to chemotherapy to induce ovarian damage. After chemotherapy, we evaluated the protective effects of exosome treatment on ovarian function, such as estrous cyclicity, serum hormone levels, and the fertility rate, by comparing these outcomes between the chemotherapy and fertility protection groups. These outcomes were also compared with those of the control group for comparison with outcomes under healthy conditions. RESULTS After intraovarian injection of exosomes before chemotherapy, the mice were able to maintain their estrous cycle (4- to 5-day cyclicity), serum anti-müllerian hormone level (66.06±26.40 ng/mL, not significantly different from that of the healthy controls), folliculogenesis (32.2±11.3 in the chemotherapy group vs 46.4±14.1 in the fertility protection group; P<.05), expression of the steroidogenic acute regulatory protein gene (a the steroidogenesis marker) (0.44±0.11-fold expression in the chemotherapy group and 0.88±0.31-fold expression in the fertility protection group; P<.05), and fertility (2 of 8 in the chemotherapy group and 5 of 8 in the fertility protection group), thereby showing prevention of chemotherapy-induced damage. We found that exosome treatment before chemotherapy can preserve ovarian function and protect fertility through the overexpression of ATP synthase-binding cassette transporters, such as ABCB1b (10.17±17.75-fold expression in the chemotherapy group and 44.14±33.25-fold expression in the fertility protection group; P<.05) and ABCC10 (3.25±0.59-fold expression in the chemotherapy group and 5.36±1.86-fold expression in the fertility protection group; P<.05). CONCLUSION In this study, we present a novel fertility protection method using mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes. We concluded that mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes are a promising and simple treatment option for fertility protection in reproductive-aged patients who are receiving gonadotoxic chemotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hang-Soo Park
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL; Department of Biomedical Science, Sunchon National University, Sunchon 57922, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin Seok
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - Esra Cetin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | | | | | - Hanaa Mohammed
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL; Human Anatomy and Embryology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Sohag University, Sohag, Egypt
| | - Hiba Alkelani
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - Ayman Al-Hendy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL.
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Chen Y, Ma G, Gai Y, Yang Q, Liu X, de Avila JM, Mao S, Zhu M, Du M. AMPK Suppression Due to Obesity Drives Oocyte mtDNA Heteroplasmy via ATF5-POLG Axis. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2307480. [PMID: 38499990 PMCID: PMC11132083 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202307480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
Due to the exclusive maternal transmission, oocyte mitochondrial dysfunction reduces fertility rates, affects embryonic development, and programs offspring to metabolic diseases. However, mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) are vulnerable to mutations during oocyte maturation, leading to mitochondrial nucleotide variations (mtSNVs) within a single oocyte, referring to mtDNA heteroplasmy. Obesity (OB) accounts for more than 40% of women at the reproductive age in the USA, but little is known about impacts of OB on mtSNVs in mature oocytes. It is found that OB reduces mtDNA content and increases mtSNVs in mature oocytes, which impairs mitochondrial energetic functions and oocyte quality. In mature oocytes, OB suppresses AMPK activity, aligned with an increased binding affinity of the ATF5-POLG protein complex to mutated mtDNA D-loop and protein-coding regions. Similarly, AMPK knockout increases the binding affinity of ATF5-POLG proteins to mutated mtDNA, leading to the replication of heteroplasmic mtDNA and impairing oocyte quality. Consistently, AMPK activation blocks the detrimental impacts of OB by preventing ATF5-POLG protein recruitment, improving oocyte maturation and mitochondrial energetics. Overall, the data uncover key features of AMPK activation in suppressing mtSNVs, and improving mitochondrial biogenesis and oocyte maturation in obese females.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanting Chen
- National Center for Internatinal Research on Animal Gut NutritionJingsu Key Laboratory of Gastrointestinal Nutrition and Animal HealthCollege of Animal Science and TechnologyNanjing Agricultural UniversityNanjing210095China
- Nutrigenomics and Growth Biology LaboratoryDepartment of Animal SciencesWashington State UniversityPullmanWA99164USA
| | - Guiling Ma
- National Center for Internatinal Research on Animal Gut NutritionJingsu Key Laboratory of Gastrointestinal Nutrition and Animal HealthCollege of Animal Science and TechnologyNanjing Agricultural UniversityNanjing210095China
- Nutrigenomics and Growth Biology LaboratoryDepartment of Animal SciencesWashington State UniversityPullmanWA99164USA
| | - Yang Gai
- National Center for Internatinal Research on Animal Gut NutritionJingsu Key Laboratory of Gastrointestinal Nutrition and Animal HealthCollege of Animal Science and TechnologyNanjing Agricultural UniversityNanjing210095China
| | - Qiyuan Yang
- Department of MolecularCell and Cancer BiologyUniversity of Massachusetts Chan Medical SchoolWorcesterMA01655USA
| | - Xiangdong Liu
- Nutrigenomics and Growth Biology LaboratoryDepartment of Animal SciencesWashington State UniversityPullmanWA99164USA
- Department of Cancer biologyDana‐Farber Cancer InstituteHarvard Medical SchoolBostonMA02215USA
| | - Jeanene M. de Avila
- Nutrigenomics and Growth Biology LaboratoryDepartment of Animal SciencesWashington State UniversityPullmanWA99164USA
| | - Shengyong Mao
- National Center for Internatinal Research on Animal Gut NutritionJingsu Key Laboratory of Gastrointestinal Nutrition and Animal HealthCollege of Animal Science and TechnologyNanjing Agricultural UniversityNanjing210095China
| | - Mei‐Jun Zhu
- School of Food SciencesWashington State UniversityPullmanWA99164USA
| | - Min Du
- Nutrigenomics and Growth Biology LaboratoryDepartment of Animal SciencesWashington State UniversityPullmanWA99164USA
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Liu XM, Li J, Chen D, Li H, Qin XY, Wang YX, Gu YZ, Li N, Zhou LG, Feng M. Ano1 regulates embryo transport by modulating intracellular calcium levels in oviduct smooth muscle. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2024; 1870:167059. [PMID: 38336104 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2024.167059] [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: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 02/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
Oviductal smooth muscle exhibits spontaneous rhythmic contraction (SRC) and controls the passage of the ova at the exact time, but its mechanistic regulation remains to be determined. In this study, female mice with Ano1SMKO (smooth muscle-specific deletion of Ano1) had reduced fertility. Deficiency of Ano1 in mice resulted in impaired oviductal SRC function and reduced calcium signaling in individual smooth muscle cells in the oviduct. The Ano1 antagonist T16Ainh-A01 dose-dependently inhibited SRCs and [Ca2+]i in the oviducts of humans and mice. A similar inhibitory effect of SRCs and [Ca2+]i was observed after treatment with nifedipine. In our study, ANO1 acted primarily as an activator or amplifier in [Ca2+]i and contraction of tubal smooth muscle cells. We found that tubal SRC was markedly attenuated in patients with ectopic pregnancy. Then, our study was designed to determine whether chloride channel Ano1-mediated smooth muscle motility is associated with tubal SRC. Our findings reveal a new mechanism for the regulation of tubal motility that may be associated with abnormal pregnancies such as ectopic pregnancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Man Liu
- Central Laboratory, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong 250021, PR China; Central Laboratory, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250021, PR China; Institute of Clinical Microbiology, Shandong Academy of Clinical Medicine, Jinan, Shandong 250021, PR China
| | - Juan Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong 250021, PR China
| | - Defang Chen
- Office of Operation Management Committee, Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong 250013, PR China
| | - Hao Li
- Department of Blood Transfusion, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong 250021, PR China
| | - Xiao-Yan Qin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong 250021, PR China
| | - Yun-Xia Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong 250021, PR China
| | - Yong-Zhong Gu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong 250021, PR China
| | - Na Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong 250021, PR China
| | - Li-Guang Zhou
- Department of Ultrasound, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong 250021, PR China
| | - Mei Feng
- Central Laboratory, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong 250021, PR China; Central Laboratory, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250021, PR China; Institute of Clinical Microbiology, Shandong Academy of Clinical Medicine, Jinan, Shandong 250021, PR China.
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Srivastava S, Mishra S, Babu G, Mohanty B. Neurotensin agonist PD149163 modulates lipopolysaccharide induced inflammation and oxidative stress in the female reproductive system of mice. Reprod Biol 2024; 24:100828. [PMID: 38029502 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2023.100828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Revised: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
Inflammation-mediated reproductive health problems in females have become an emerging concern. The present investigation was aimed to elucidate the efficacy of the PD149163, agonist of the type I neurotensin receptor, in preventing/ameliorating the lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induced inflammation of the female reproductive system of the mice. Female Swiss Albino Mice (8 weeks old) were maintained in three groups (6/group): Group I as Control, Group II and Group III were exposed to intraperitoneal (i.p) LPS (1 mg/kg bw) for 5 days followed by treatment with PD149163 (100 μg/kg BW i.p.) to Group III (LPS + PD) for 28 days. After termination of the experiment on 29th day, plasma levels of inflammatory cytokines, LH, FSH, estradiol, corticosterone, oxidative stress effects in the ovary and histopathological study of the ovary and uterine horn were done. LPS-induced inflammation of the ovary and uterine horn was ameliorated/prevented by PD149163 as reflected in the reduced histopathological scores, significant elevation of the plasma anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 and decrease of the pro inflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-6. Significant decrease of lipid peroxide, increase of antioxidant defense enzymes, Superoxide dismutase and Catalase in the ovary indicated reduction of oxidative stress. The plasma levels of the reproduction related hormones and corticosterone were restored. PD149163 acts as an anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative agent in modulation of inflammation in the female reproductive system (ovary & uterine horn). These findings suggest that the therapeutic potential of the analogs of neurotensin including PD149163 should be explored for the treatment of the female reproductive health issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonia Srivastava
- Department of Zoology, University of Allahabad, Prayagraj 211002, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Swarnima Mishra
- Department of Zoology, University of Allahabad, Prayagraj 211002, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Gyan Babu
- Department of Zoology, University of Allahabad, Prayagraj 211002, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Banalata Mohanty
- Department of Zoology, University of Allahabad, Prayagraj 211002, Uttar Pradesh, India.
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Barcelos MN, Gonçalves-Santos E, Souza MA, Santos EC, Gonçalves RV, Castro-Gamero AM, Novaes RD. Prolonged testosterone 17β-cyclopentylpropionate exposition induces behavioral, ovarian, oviductal, uterine and reproductive disturbances in female mice. Life Sci 2024; 338:122408. [PMID: 38181852 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2023.122408] [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: 10/27/2023] [Revised: 12/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2024]
Abstract
Anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) abuse is often associated with metabolic disorders and infertility. However, the current evidence on AAS-induced reproductive toxicity is mainly based on male studies. Thus, AAS repercussions on female reproductive capacity remain poorly understood, despite scarce evidence that fertility determinants may be more severely impaired in females than males exposed to these drugs. Accordingly, this study used an integrated framework to investigate the impact of different testosterone 17β-cyclopentylpropionate (TC) doses on pain sensitivity, aggressiveness, anxiety, sexual behavior, ovarian, oviductal, uterine and reproductive morphofunctional and molecular outcomes. These parameters were used to explore the reproductive capacity in female mice exposed to this synthetic testosterone ester. The animals were untreated or intraperitoneally treated with 5, 10 and 20 mg/kg TC every 48 h for 12 weeks. Our findings indicated that testosterone was upregulated while the hormones luteinizing, follicle-stimulating, estrogen and progesterone were down-regulated by TC. This AAS also exerted deleterious effects on anxiety, aggressivity, nociception, exploratory and sexual behavior in female mice. Concurrently, TC attenuated ovarian follicle maturation, interrupted the estrous cycle, induced oviductal and uterine hypotrophy. Estrous cyclicity was reestablished 60 days after AAS treatment. However, TC-treated mice still exhibited impaired reproductive capacity, a disturbance potentially related to deficiency in folliculogenesis, sex hormones production, and endometrial receptivity mediate by ER-α, PR, HOXA-10 and LIF down-regulation. Taken together, our findings indicated that in addition to female behavior, reproductive organs microstructure and function are markedly impaired by TC in a dose-dependent manner, whose time-dependent reversibility remains to be clarified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mônica N Barcelos
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biociências Aplicadas à Saúde, Universidade Federal de Alfenas, Alfenas 37130-001, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Elda Gonçalves-Santos
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biociências Aplicadas à Saúde, Universidade Federal de Alfenas, Alfenas 37130-001, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Matheus A Souza
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Alfenas, Alfenas 37130-001, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Eliziária C Santos
- Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, Diamantina 39100-000, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Reggiani V Gonçalves
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biologia Animal, Departamento de Biologia Animal, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Viçosa 36570-900, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Angel Mauricio Castro-Gamero
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biociências Aplicadas à Saúde, Universidade Federal de Alfenas, Alfenas 37130-001, Minas Gerais, Brazil; Instituto de Ciências da Natureza, Universidade Federal de Alfenas, Alfenas 37130-001, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Rômulo D Novaes
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biociências Aplicadas à Saúde, Universidade Federal de Alfenas, Alfenas 37130-001, Minas Gerais, Brazil; Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Alfenas, Alfenas 37130-001, Minas Gerais, Brazil; Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biologia Animal, Departamento de Biologia Animal, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Viçosa 36570-900, Minas Gerais, Brazil; Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal de Alfenas, Alfenas 37130-001, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
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Liu H, Tu M, Yin Z, Zhang D, Ma J, He F. Unraveling the complexity of polycystic ovary syndrome with animal models. J Genet Genomics 2024; 51:144-158. [PMID: 37777062 DOI: 10.1016/j.jgg.2023.09.012] [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: 07/03/2023] [Revised: 09/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/02/2023]
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a highly familial and heritable endocrine disorder. Over half of the daughters born to women with PCOS may eventually develop their own PCOS-related symptoms. Progress in the treatment of PCOS is currently hindered by the complexity of its clinical manifestations and incomplete knowledge of its etiopathogenesis. Various animal models, including experimentally induced, naturally occurring, and spontaneously arising ones, have been established to emulate a wide range of phenotypical and pathological traits of human PCOS. These studies have led to a paradigm shift in understanding the genetic, developmental, and evolutionary origins of this disorder. Furthermore, emerging evidence suggests that animal models are useful in evaluating state-of-the-art drugs and treatments for PCOS. This review aims to provide a comprehensive summary of recent studies of PCOS in animal models, highlighting the power of these disease models in understanding the biology of PCOS and aiding high-throughput approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huanju Liu
- Center for Genetic Medicine, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China
| | - Mixue Tu
- Key Laboratory of Women's Reproductive Health of Zhejiang Province and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310006, China
| | - Zhiyong Yin
- Center for Genetic Medicine, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China
| | - Dan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Women's Reproductive Health of Zhejiang Province and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310006, China; Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310006, China; Clinical Research Center on Birth Defect Prevention and Intervention of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310006, China.
| | - Jun Ma
- Center for Genetic Medicine, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China; Key Laboratory of Women's Reproductive Health of Zhejiang Province and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310006, China; Institute of Genetics, Zhejiang University International School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China; Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Genetic and Developmental Disorder, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China.
| | - Feng He
- Center for Genetic Medicine, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China; Key Laboratory of Women's Reproductive Health of Zhejiang Province and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310006, China; Institute of Genetics, Zhejiang University International School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China; Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Genetic and Developmental Disorder, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China.
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10
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Grubliauskaitė M, Vlieghe H, Moghassemi S, Dadashzadeh A, Camboni A, Gudlevičienė Ž, Amorim CA. Influence of ovarian stromal cells on human ovarian follicle growth in a 3D environment. Hum Reprod Open 2023; 2024:hoad052. [PMID: 38204939 PMCID: PMC10776356 DOI: 10.1093/hropen/hoad052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Revised: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Do ovarian stromal cells (OSCs) influence the viability and growth of human preantral follicles in vitro? SUMMARY ANSWER A feeder layer of OSCs promotes the growth and transition of low developmental stage follicles to the primary/secondary stage while maintaining a high proportion of viable follicles. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY In the ovary, follicles rely on the support of ovarian cells, which secrete essential factors for their survival and development. This phenomenon has also been demonstrated in vitro through the 3D culture of isolated mouse primary and secondary follicles on a feeder layer of OSCs. This co-culture notably enhances follicle survival and growth. STUDY DESIGN SIZE DURATION Pre-antral follicles were isolated from human frozen-thawed ovarian tissue biopsies and then encapsulated in 1% alginate scaffolds. These embedded preantral follicles were either placed directly on the OSCs feeder layer or at the bottom of a culture dish for a 7-day in vitro culture (control). The study compared follicle viability, growth, and hormone production between the different groups. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS SETTING METHODS Primordial/intermediate and primary follicles were isolated from frozen-thawed ovarian tissue of cancer patients (n = 6). OSCs were then isolated from ovarian tissue of post-menopausal women and cultured as a feeder layer. Follicle diameter was measured on Days 0 and 7 using an inverted microscope to assess their development based on the increase in diameter. Viability was evaluated by staining a subset of follicles (n = 87) with calcein AM and ethidium homodimer-I, followed by classification into healthy/minimally damaged and damaged/dead follicles using confocal fluorescence microscopy. Additionally, estradiol levels were measured using ELISA. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE A total of 382 human preantral follicles (370 primordial/intermediate and 12 primary) with a mean diameter of 40.8 ± 9.9 µm (mean ± SD) were isolated, embedded in 1% alginate hydrogel, and placed either on a monolayer of OSCs or directly on the plastic. By Day 7, the preantral follicles showed a significant size increase under both culture conditions (P < 0.0001 for D0 vs D7). The mean diameter of follicles (quiescent and growing) cultured on the feeder layer was 80.6 ± 11.0 μm compared to 67.3 ± 7.2 μm without it (P = 0.07). During the 7-day in vitro culture, the viability of the follicles significantly decreased only in the group without an OSCs monolayer compared to the D0 viability (P < 0.05). Additionally, more follicles transitioned to a higher developmental stage in the presence of OSCs (D0 primordial/intermediate: 184, primary: 7 vs D7 primordial/intermediate: 51, primary/secondary: 93) compared to those cultured without OSCs (D0 primordial/intermediate: 186, primary: 5 vs D7 primordial/intermediate: 84, primary/secondary: 65; P < 0.001). Specifically, 66 and 44 follicles reached the secondary stage (75< x <200 μm) in the presence and absence of OSCs, respectively. Moreover, the estradiol level was significantly higher (P = 0.006) in the alginate beads containing primordial and growing follicles cultured on the OSCs (54.1 ± 14.2 pg/ml) compared to those cultured without OSCs (29.9 ± 4.0 pg/ml). LARGE SCALE DATA N/A. LIMITATIONS REASONS FOR CAUTION This study was conducted using a short-term culture, and none of the primordial/intermediate/primary follicles reached the antral stage. Further in vitro studies are required to investigate follicular developmental capacity, physiology, and steroidogenesis in alginate scaffolds with human OSCs. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Activating and growing human primordial/intermediate follicles to a secondary stage in in vitro short-term culture has posed a longstanding challenge. However, co-culturing with human OSCs has shown the potential to overcome this limitation. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS This study was supported by grants from the Fonds National de la Recherche Scientifique de Belgique (FNRS-PDR Convention grant number T.0004.20 awarded to C.A.A., PhD scholarship awarded to H.V.), Fondation Louvain (awarded to C.A.A.; PhD scholarship awarded to S.M., as part of a legacy from Mr Frans Heyes, and PhD scholarship awarded to A.D. as part of a legacy from Mrs Ilse Schirmer), Foundation Against Cancer (grant 2018-042 awarded to A.C.), and the European Community Structural Funds and Lithuanian Research Council (Agreement registration No. D-19-0874). The authors have no conflicts of interest to declare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Grubliauskaitė
- Institute of Biochemistry, Life Sciences Center, Vilnius University, Vilnius, Lithuania
- Department of Biobank, National Cancer Institute, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Hanne Vlieghe
- Pôle de Recherche en Physiopathologie de la Reproduction, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Saeid Moghassemi
- Pôle de Recherche en Physiopathologie de la Reproduction, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Arezoo Dadashzadeh
- Pôle de Recherche en Physiopathologie de la Reproduction, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Alessandra Camboni
- Pôle de Recherche en Gynécologie, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium
- Anatomopathology Department, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium
| | | | - Christiani A Amorim
- Pôle de Recherche en Physiopathologie de la Reproduction, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium
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11
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Safar AM, Santacruz-Márquez R, Laws MJ, Meling DD, Liu Z, Kumar TR, Nowak RA, Raetzman LT, Flaws JA. Dietary exposure to an environmentally relevant phthalate mixture alters follicle dynamics, hormone levels, ovarian gene expression, and pituitary gene expression in female mice. Reprod Toxicol 2023; 122:108489. [PMID: 37839492 PMCID: PMC10873030 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2023.108489] [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: 08/24/2023] [Revised: 09/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023]
Abstract
Phthalates are chemicals ubiquitously used in industry. Individual phthalates have been found to adversely affect female reproduction; however, humans are exposed to a mixture of phthalates daily, primarily through ingestion. Previous studies show that exposure to an environmentally relevant mixture of phthalates (Mix) can affect female reproduction. Little research, however, has been conducted on the effects of short-term (1 month) and long-term (6 months) exposure to Mix on ovarian functions. Thus, this study tested the hypothesis that short-term and long-term exposure to Mix alters ovarian folliculogenesis, serum hormone concentrations, pituitary gene expression, and ovarian expression of genes involved in steroidogenesis, apoptosis, cell cycle regulation, and oxidative stress. Adult CD-1 female mice were exposed to vehicle control (corn oil) or Mix (0.15-1500 ppm) in the chow for 1 or 6 months. Exposure to Mix for 1 month increased the number of atretic follicles (0.15 ppm), altered ovarian gene expression (0.15 ppm, 1500 ppm), and decreased serum testosterone (1.5 ppm) compared to control. Exposure to Mix for 6 months increased serum follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) (0.15 ppm), decreased serum luteinizing hormone (LH) (0.15 ppm, 1.5 ppm, and 1500 ppm), decreased serum estradiol (1500 ppm), altered pituitary gene expression (1500 ppm), increased the number (1500 ppm) and percentage (1.5 ppm and 1500 ppm) of primordial follicles, and decreased the percentage of preantral (1500 ppm) and antral (1.5 ppm and 1500 ppm) follicles compared to control. These data indicate that exposure to Mix can alter folliculogenesis, steroidogenesis, and gene expression in female mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adira M Safar
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | | | - Mary J Laws
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Daryl D Meling
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Zhenghui Liu
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Sciences, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - T Rajendra Kumar
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Sciences, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Romana A Nowak
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA; Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Lori T Raetzman
- Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA; Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Jodi A Flaws
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA; Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA.
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12
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Wu M, Xue L, Chen Y, Tang W, Guo Y, Xiong J, Chen D, Zhu Q, Fu F, Wang S. Inhibition of checkpoint kinase prevents human oocyte apoptosis induced by chemotherapy and allows enhanced tumour chemotherapeutic efficacy. Hum Reprod 2023; 38:1769-1783. [PMID: 37451671 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dead145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Could inhibition of the checkpoint kinase (CHEK) pathway protect human oocytes and even enhance the anti-tumour effects, during chemotherapy? SUMMARY ANSWER CHEK inhibitors prevented apoptosis of human oocytes induced by chemotherapy and even enhanced the anti-tumour effects. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY CHEK inhibitors showed ovarian protective effects in mice during chemotherapy, while their role in human oocytes is unclear. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This experimental study evaluated the ovarian reserve of young patients (120 patients) with cancer, exposed or not exposed to taxane and platinum (TP)-combined chemotherapy. Single RNA-sequencing analysis of human primordial oocytes from 10 patients was performed to explore the mechanism of oocyte apoptosis induced by TP chemotherapy. The damaging effects of paclitaxel (PTX) and cisplatin on human oocytes were also evaluated by culturing human ovaries in vitro. A new mouse model that combines human ovarian xenotransplantation and patient-derived tumour xenografts was developed to explore adjuvant therapies for ovarian protection. The mice were randomly allocated to four groups (10 mice for each group): control, cisplatin, cisplatin + CK1 (CHEK1 inhibitor, SCH 900776), and cisplatin + CK2 (CHEK2 inhibitor, BML277). PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS In the prospective cohort study, human ovarian follicles were counted and serum AMH levels were evaluated. RNA-sequencing analysis was conducted, and staining for follicular damage (phosphorylated H2AX histone; γH2AX), terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP-biotin nick end labelling (TUNEL) assays and assessments of apoptotic biomarkers (western blot and immunofluorescence) were conducted in human ovaries. After the treatments, histological analysis was performed on human ovarian samples to investigate follicular populations, and oocyte damage was measured by γH2AX staining, BAX staining, and TUNEL assays. At the same time, the tumours were evaluated for volume, weight, and apoptosis levels. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Patients who received TP chemotherapy showed decreased ovarian reserves. Single RNA-sequencing analysis of human primordial oocytes indicated that TP chemotherapy induced apoptosis of human primordial oocytes by causing CHEK-mediated TAp63α phosphorylation. In vitro culture of human ovaries showed greater damaging effects on oocytes after cisplatin treatment compared with that after PTX treatment. Using the new animal model, CHEK1/2 inhibitors prevented the apoptosis of human oocytes induced by cisplatin and even enhanced its anti-tumour effects. This protective effect appeared to be mediated by inhibiting DNA damage via the CHEK-TAp63α pathway and by generation of anti-apoptotic signals in the oocytes. LARGE SCALE DATA N/A. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION This was a preclinical study performed with human ovarian samples, and clinical research is required for validation. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS These findings highlight the therapeutic potential of CHEK1/2 inhibitors as a complementary strategy for preserving fertility in female cancer patients. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was financially supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (nos. 82001514 and 81902669) and the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities (2021yjsCXCY087). The authors declare no conflict of interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, China
- Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Wuhan, China
| | - Liru Xue
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, China
- Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Wuhan, China
| | - Ying Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, China
- Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Wuhan, China
| | - Weicheng Tang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, China
- Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Wuhan, China
| | - Yican Guo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, China
- Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Wuhan, China
| | - Jiaqiang Xiong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Dan Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, China
- Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Wuhan, China
| | - Qingqing Zhu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, China
- Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Wuhan, China
| | - Fangfang Fu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, China
- Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Wuhan, China
| | - Shixuan Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, China
- Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Wuhan, China
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13
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Ye M, Shan Y, Lu B, Luo H, Li B, Zhang Y, Wang Z, Guo Y, Ouyang L, Gu J, Xiong Z, Zhang T. Creating a semi-opened micro-cavity ovary through sacrificial microspheres as an in vitro model for discovering the potential effect of ovarian toxic agents. Bioact Mater 2023; 26:216-230. [PMID: 36936809 PMCID: PMC10017366 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioactmat.2023.02.029] [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: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 02/26/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The bio-engineered ovary is an essential technology for treating female infertility. Especially the development of relevant in vitro models could be a critical step in a drug study. Herein, we develop a semi-opened culturing system (SOCS) strategy that maintains a 3D structure of follicles during the culture. Based on the SOCS, we further developed micro-cavity ovary (MCO) with mouse follicles by the microsphere-templated technique, where sacrificial gelatin microspheres were mixed with photo-crosslinkable gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA) to engineer a micro-cavity niche for follicle growth. The semi-opened MCO could support the follicle growing to the antral stage, secreting hormones, and ovulating cumulus-oocyte complex out of the MCO without extra manipulation. The MCO-ovulated oocyte exhibits a highly similar transcriptome to the in vivo counterpart (correlation of 0.97) and can be fertilized. Moreover, we found that a high ROS level could affect the cumulus expansion, which may result in anovulation disorder. The damage could be rescued by melatonin, but the end of cumulus expansion was 3h earlier than anticipation, validating that MCO has the potential for investigating ovarian toxic agents in vitro. We provide a novel approach for building an in vitro ovarian model to recapitulate ovarian functions and test chemical toxicity, suggesting it has the potential for clinical research in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Ye
- Biomanufacturing Center, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
- Biomanufacturing and Rapid Forming Technology Key Laboratory of Beijing, Beijing, 100084, China
- Biomanufacturing and Engineering Living Systems, Innovation International Talents Base (111 Base), Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Yiran Shan
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinformatics, BNRIST Bioinformatics Division, Department of Automation, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Bingchuan Lu
- Biomanufacturing Center, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
- Biomanufacturing and Rapid Forming Technology Key Laboratory of Beijing, Beijing, 100084, China
- Biomanufacturing and Engineering Living Systems, Innovation International Talents Base (111 Base), Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Hao Luo
- Biomanufacturing Center, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
- Biomanufacturing and Rapid Forming Technology Key Laboratory of Beijing, Beijing, 100084, China
- Biomanufacturing and Engineering Living Systems, Innovation International Talents Base (111 Base), Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Binhan Li
- Biomanufacturing Center, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
- Biomanufacturing and Rapid Forming Technology Key Laboratory of Beijing, Beijing, 100084, China
- Biomanufacturing and Engineering Living Systems, Innovation International Talents Base (111 Base), Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Yanmei Zhang
- Biomanufacturing Center, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
- Biomanufacturing and Rapid Forming Technology Key Laboratory of Beijing, Beijing, 100084, China
- Biomanufacturing and Engineering Living Systems, Innovation International Talents Base (111 Base), Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Zixuan Wang
- Biomanufacturing Center, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
- Biomanufacturing and Rapid Forming Technology Key Laboratory of Beijing, Beijing, 100084, China
- Biomanufacturing and Engineering Living Systems, Innovation International Talents Base (111 Base), Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Yuzhi Guo
- Biomanufacturing Center, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
- Biomanufacturing and Rapid Forming Technology Key Laboratory of Beijing, Beijing, 100084, China
- Biomanufacturing and Engineering Living Systems, Innovation International Talents Base (111 Base), Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Liliang Ouyang
- Biomanufacturing Center, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
- Biomanufacturing and Rapid Forming Technology Key Laboratory of Beijing, Beijing, 100084, China
- Biomanufacturing and Engineering Living Systems, Innovation International Talents Base (111 Base), Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Jin Gu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinformatics, BNRIST Bioinformatics Division, Department of Automation, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Zhuo Xiong
- Biomanufacturing Center, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
- Biomanufacturing and Rapid Forming Technology Key Laboratory of Beijing, Beijing, 100084, China
- Biomanufacturing and Engineering Living Systems, Innovation International Talents Base (111 Base), Beijing, 100084, China
- Corresponding author. Biomanufacturing Center, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China.
| | - Ting Zhang
- Biomanufacturing Center, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
- Biomanufacturing and Rapid Forming Technology Key Laboratory of Beijing, Beijing, 100084, China
- Biomanufacturing and Engineering Living Systems, Innovation International Talents Base (111 Base), Beijing, 100084, China
- Corresponding author. Biomanufacturing Center, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China.
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14
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Zhang JY, Zhang MY, Xiao SY, Zheng MF, Wang JL, Sun SC, Qin L. Nivalenol disrupts mitochondria functions during porcine oocyte meiotic maturation. Toxicon 2023:107223. [PMID: 37437783 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2023.107223] [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: 05/21/2023] [Revised: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/09/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023]
Abstract
Oocyte maturation is important for fertility in mammals, since the quality of oocytes directly affects fertilization, embryo attachment and survival. Nivalenol is widely present in nature as a common toxin that contaminates grain and feed, and it has been reported to cause acute toxicity, immunotoxicity, reproductive toxicity and carcinogenic effects. In this study, we explored the impact of nivalenol on the porcine oocyte maturation and its possible mechanisms. The extrusion of the first polar body was significantly inhibited after incubating oocytes with nivalenol. Meanwhile, nivalenol exposure led to the abnormal distribution of mitochondria, aberrant calcium concentration and the reduction of membrane potential caused a significant decrease in the capacity of mitochondria to generate ATP. In addition, nivalenol induced oxidative stress, and the level of ROS was significantly increased in the nivalenol-treated group, which was confirmed by the perturbation of oxidative stress-related genes. We found that nivalenol-treated oocytes showed positive Annexin-V and γH2A.X signals, indicating the occurrence of apoptosis and DNA damage. In all, our data suggest that nivalenol disrupted porcine oocyte maturation through its effects on mitochondria-related oxidative stress, apoptosis and DNA damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing-Yi Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Meng-Yao Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Shi-Yi Xiao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Mei-Feng Zheng
- Reproductive Medicine, Guangxi Medical and Health Key Discipline Construction Project, The Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, 533000, China
| | - Jun-Li Wang
- Reproductive Medicine, Guangxi Medical and Health Key Discipline Construction Project, The Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, 533000, China
| | - Shao-Chen Sun
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China.
| | - Li Qin
- Reproductive Medicine, Guangxi Medical and Health Key Discipline Construction Project, The Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, 533000, China.
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15
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Saber M, Shekari F, Mousavi SA, Moini A, Miri MS, Esfandiari F. JAK/STAT3 pathway promotes proliferation of ovarian aggregate-derived stem cells in vitro. Exp Cell Res 2023:113689. [PMID: 37355151 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2023.113689] [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: 05/02/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The accurate identification and isolation of ovarian stem cells from mammalian ovaries remain a major challenge because of the lack of specific surface markers and suitable in vitro culture systems. Optimized culture conditions for in vitro expansion of ovarian stem cells would allow for identifying requirements of these stem cells for proliferation and differentiation that would pave the way to uncover role of ovarian stem cells in ovarian pathophysiology. Here, we used three-dimensional (3D) aggregate culture system for enrichment of ovarian stem cells and named them aggregate-derived stem cells (ASCs). We hypothesized that mimicking the ovarian microenvironment in vitro by using an aggregate model of the ovary would provide a suitable niche for the isolation of ovarian stem cells from adult mouse and human ovaries and wanted to find out the main cellular pathway governing the proliferation of these stem cells. RESULTS We showed that ovarian aggregates take an example from ovary microenvironment in terms of expression of ovarian markers, hormone secretion and supporting the viability of the cells. We found that aggregates-derived stem cells proliferate in vitro as long-term while remained expression of germline markers. These ovarian stem cells differentiated to oocyte like cells in vitro spontaneously. Transplantation of these stem cells in to chemotherapy mouse ovary could restore ovarian structure. RNA-sequencing analysis revealed that interleukin6 is upregulated pathway in ovarian aggregate-derived stem cells. Our data showed that JAK/Stat3 signaling pathway which is activated downstream of IL6 is critical for ovarian stem cells proliferation. CONCLUSIONS We developed a platform that is highly reproducible for in vitro propagation of ovarian stem cells. Our study provides a primary insight into cellular pathway governing the proliferation of ovarian stem cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Saber
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Faezeh Shekari
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed-Ahmad Mousavi
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ashraf Moini
- Department of Endocrinology and Female Infertility, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran; Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Arash Women's Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Breast Disease Research Center (BDRC), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Monireh-Sadat Miri
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fereshteh Esfandiari
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran.
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Day JR, Flanagan CL, David A, Hartigan-O'Connor DJ, Garcia de Mattos Barbosa M, Martinez ML, Lee C, Barnes J, Farkash E, Zelinski M, Tarantal A, Cascalho M, Shikanov A. Encapsulated Allografts Preclude Host Sensitization and Promote Ovarian Endocrine Function in Ovariectomized Young Rhesus Monkeys and Sensitized Mice. Bioengineering (Basel) 2023; 10:bioengineering10050550. [PMID: 37237620 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering10050550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Revised: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Transplantation of allogeneic donor ovarian tissue holds great potential for female cancer survivors who often experience premature ovarian insufficiency. To avoid complications associated with immune suppression and to protect transplanted ovarian allografts from immune-mediated injury, we have developed an immunoisolating hydrogel-based capsule that supports the function of ovarian allografts without triggering an immune response. Encapsulated ovarian allografts implanted in naïve ovariectomized BALB/c mice responded to the circulating gonadotropins and maintained function for 4 months, as evident by regular estrous cycles and the presence of antral follicles in the retrieved grafts. In contrast to non-encapsulated controls, repeated implantations of encapsulated mouse ovarian allografts did not sensitize naïve BALB/c mice, which was confirmed with undetectable levels of alloantibodies. Further, encapsulated allografts implanted in hosts previously sensitized by the implantation of non-encapsulated allografts restored estrous cycles similarly to our results in naïve recipients. Next, we tested the translational potential and efficiency of the immune-isolating capsule in a rhesus monkey model by implanting encapsulated ovarian auto- and allografts in young ovariectomized animals. The encapsulated ovarian grafts survived and restored basal levels of urinary estrone conjugate and pregnanediol 3-glucuronide during the 4- and 5-month observation periods. We demonstrate, for the first time, that encapsulated ovarian allografts functioned for months in young rhesus monkeys and sensitized mice, while the immunoisolating capsule prevented sensitization and protected the allograft from rejection.
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Affiliation(s)
- James R Day
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Colleen L Flanagan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Anu David
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Dennis J Hartigan-O'Connor
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
- California National Primate Research Center, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | | | - Michele L Martinez
- California National Primate Research Center, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Charles Lee
- California National Primate Research Center, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
- Department of Cell Biology and Human Anatomy, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Jenna Barnes
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Evan Farkash
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Mary Zelinski
- Division of Reproductive & Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Beaverton, OR 97006, USA
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA
| | - Alice Tarantal
- California National Primate Research Center, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
- Department of Cell Biology and Human Anatomy, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Marilia Cascalho
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Ariella Shikanov
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
- Department of Macromolecular Science & Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
- Cellular and Molecular Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
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17
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Suebthawinkul C, Babayev E, Lee HC, Duncan FE. Morphokinetic parameters of mouse oocyte meiotic maturation and cumulus expansion are not affected by reproductive age or ploidy status. J Assist Reprod Genet 2023; 40:1197-1213. [PMID: 37012451 PMCID: PMC10239409 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-023-02779-y] [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: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Morphokinetic analysis using a closed time-lapse monitoring system (EmbryoScope + ™) provides quantitative metrics of meiotic progression and cumulus expansion. The goal of this study was to use a physiologic aging mouse model, in which egg aneuploidy levels increase, to determine whether there are age-dependent differences in morphokinetic parameters of oocyte maturation. METHODS Denuded oocytes and intact cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) were isolated from reproductively young and old mice and in vitro matured in the EmbryoScope + ™. Morphokinetic parameters of meiotic progression and cumulus expansion were evaluated, compared between reproductively young and old mice, and correlated with egg ploidy status. RESULTS Oocytes from reproductively old mice were smaller than young counterparts in terms of GV area (446.42 ± 4.15 vs. 416.79 ± 5.24 µm2, p < 0.0001) and oocyte area (4195.71 ± 33.10 vs. 4081.62 ± 41.04 µm2, p < 0.05). In addition, the aneuploidy incidence was higher in eggs with advanced reproductive age (24-27% vs. 8-9%, p < 0.05). There were no differences in the morphokinetic parameters of oocyte maturation between oocytes from reproductively young and old mice with respect to time to germinal vesicle breakdown (GVBD) (1.03 ± 0.03 vs. 1.01 ± 0.04 h), polar body extrusion (PBE) (8.56 ± 0.11 vs. 8.52 ± 0.15 h), duration of meiosis I (7.58 ± 0.10 vs. 7.48 ± 0.11 h), and kinetics of cumulus expansion (0.093 ± 0.002 vs. 0.089 ± 0.003 µm/min). All morphokinetic parameters of oocyte maturation were similar between euploid and aneuploid eggs irrespective of age. CONCLUSION There is no association between age or ploidy and the morphokinetics of mouse oocyte in vitro maturation (IVM). Future studies are needed to evaluate whether there is an association between morphokinetic dynamics of mouse IVM and embryo developmental competence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chanakarn Suebthawinkul
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Elnur Babayev
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Hoi Chang Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Francesca E Duncan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA.
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18
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Dang Y, Zhu L, Yuan P, Liu Q, Guo Q, Chen X, Gao S, Liu X, Ji S, Yuan Y, Lian Y, Li R, Yan L, Wong CCL, Qiao J. Functional profiling of stage-specific proteome and translational transition across human pre-implantation embryo development at a single-cell resolution. Cell Discov 2023; 9:10. [PMID: 36693841 PMCID: PMC9873803 DOI: 10.1038/s41421-022-00491-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Yujiao Dang
- grid.11135.370000 0001 2256 9319Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Precision Medicine Multi-Omics Research, Third Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, China ,grid.411642.40000 0004 0605 3760National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China ,grid.419897.a0000 0004 0369 313XKey Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction (Peking University), Ministry of Education, Beijing, China ,grid.411642.40000 0004 0605 3760Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Liu Zhu
- grid.11135.370000 0001 2256 9319Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Precision Medicine Multi-Omics Research, Third Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Peng Yuan
- grid.11135.370000 0001 2256 9319Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Precision Medicine Multi-Omics Research, Third Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, China ,grid.411642.40000 0004 0605 3760National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China ,grid.419897.a0000 0004 0369 313XKey Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction (Peking University), Ministry of Education, Beijing, China ,grid.411642.40000 0004 0605 3760Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Qiang Liu
- grid.11135.370000 0001 2256 9319Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Precision Medicine Multi-Omics Research, Third Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, China ,grid.411642.40000 0004 0605 3760National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China ,grid.419897.a0000 0004 0369 313XKey Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction (Peking University), Ministry of Education, Beijing, China ,grid.411642.40000 0004 0605 3760Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Qianying Guo
- grid.11135.370000 0001 2256 9319Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Precision Medicine Multi-Omics Research, Third Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, China ,grid.411642.40000 0004 0605 3760National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China ,grid.419897.a0000 0004 0369 313XKey Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction (Peking University), Ministry of Education, Beijing, China ,grid.411642.40000 0004 0605 3760Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Xi Chen
- grid.11135.370000 0001 2256 9319Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Precision Medicine Multi-Omics Research, Third Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, China ,grid.411642.40000 0004 0605 3760National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China ,grid.419897.a0000 0004 0369 313XKey Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction (Peking University), Ministry of Education, Beijing, China ,grid.411642.40000 0004 0605 3760Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Shuaixin Gao
- grid.11135.370000 0001 2256 9319Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Precision Medicine Multi-Omics Research, Third Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiao Liu
- grid.11135.370000 0001 2256 9319Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Precision Medicine Multi-Omics Research, Third Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Shushen Ji
- grid.11135.370000 0001 2256 9319Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Precision Medicine Multi-Omics Research, Third Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Yifeng Yuan
- grid.11135.370000 0001 2256 9319Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Precision Medicine Multi-Omics Research, Third Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, China ,grid.411642.40000 0004 0605 3760National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Ying Lian
- grid.11135.370000 0001 2256 9319Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Precision Medicine Multi-Omics Research, Third Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, China ,grid.411642.40000 0004 0605 3760National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Rong Li
- grid.11135.370000 0001 2256 9319Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Precision Medicine Multi-Omics Research, Third Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, China ,grid.411642.40000 0004 0605 3760National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China ,grid.419897.a0000 0004 0369 313XKey Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction (Peking University), Ministry of Education, Beijing, China ,grid.411642.40000 0004 0605 3760Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Liying Yan
- grid.11135.370000 0001 2256 9319Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Precision Medicine Multi-Omics Research, Third Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, China ,grid.411642.40000 0004 0605 3760National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China ,grid.419897.a0000 0004 0369 313XKey Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction (Peking University), Ministry of Education, Beijing, China ,grid.411642.40000 0004 0605 3760Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology, Beijing, China ,Research Units of Comprehensive Diagnosis and Treatment of Oocyte Maturation Arrest, Beijing, China
| | - Catherine C. L. Wong
- grid.11135.370000 0001 2256 9319Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Precision Medicine Multi-Omics Research, Third Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, China ,grid.452723.50000 0004 7887 9190Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Beijing, China ,grid.413106.10000 0000 9889 6335Department of Medical Research Center, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Jie Qiao
- grid.11135.370000 0001 2256 9319Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Precision Medicine Multi-Omics Research, Third Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, China ,grid.411642.40000 0004 0605 3760National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China ,grid.419897.a0000 0004 0369 313XKey Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction (Peking University), Ministry of Education, Beijing, China ,grid.411642.40000 0004 0605 3760Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology, Beijing, China ,Research Units of Comprehensive Diagnosis and Treatment of Oocyte Maturation Arrest, Beijing, China ,grid.452723.50000 0004 7887 9190Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Beijing, China
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19
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Future potential of in vitro maturation including fertility preservation. Fertil Steril 2023; 119:550-559. [PMID: 36702341 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2023.01.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
In several mammalian species, oocytes from small antral follicles after in vitro maturation (IVM) are successfully used for procreation. Humans are the exception, mainly because of limited access to immature oocytes and because oocyte maturation is uniquely regulated in women. With the introduction of cryopreservation of the ovarian cortex for fertility preservation, immature oocytes from small antral follicles in the medulla are now available for developing IVM on the basis of actual human studies. This review presents recent findings in favor of developing human IVM, including the oocyte diameter, follicle size from which the immature oocytes are collected, necessary level of follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone to accelerate IVM, and secretion of factors from the cumulus-oocyte complex that affect the way oocyte maturation takes place. Furthermore, on the basis of studies in human granulosa cells and follicle fluid collected during the final maturation of follicles in vivo, a number of signal transduction pathways and hormone levels active during physiological conditions have been identified, providing new candidates and ways to improve the current IVM platform. Furthermore, it is suggested that the small droplet of culture medium in which IVM is performed mimics the hormonal milieu within a follicle created by the somatic cells and oocyte in vivo and may be used to advance oocyte nuclear and cytoplasmic maturation. Collectively, we envision that a continued research effort will develop a human IVM platform equally effective as for other mammalian species.
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20
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Biswas A, Ng BH, Prabhakaran VS, Chan CJ. Squeezing the eggs to grow: The mechanobiology of mammalian folliculogenesis. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:1038107. [PMID: 36531957 PMCID: PMC9756970 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.1038107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 08/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The formation of functional eggs (oocyte) in ovarian follicles is arguably one of the most important events in early mammalian development since the oocytes provide the bulk genetic and cytoplasmic materials for successful reproduction. While past studies have identified many genes that are critical to normal ovarian development and function, recent studies have highlighted the role of mechanical force in shaping folliculogenesis. In this review, we discuss the underlying mechanobiological principles and the force-generating cellular structures and extracellular matrix that control the various stages of follicle development. We also highlight emerging techniques that allow for the quantification of mechanical interactions and follicular dynamics during development, and propose new directions for future studies in the field. We hope this review will provide a timely and useful framework for future understanding of mechano-signalling pathways in reproductive biology and diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arikta Biswas
- Mechanobiology Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Boon Heng Ng
- Mechanobiology Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | | | - Chii Jou Chan
- Mechanobiology Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
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21
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Paulino LRFM, de Assis EIT, Azevedo VAN, Silva BR, da Cunha EV, Silva JRV. Why Is It So Difficult To Have Competent Oocytes from In vitro Cultured Preantral Follicles? Reprod Sci 2022; 29:3321-3334. [PMID: 35084715 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-021-00840-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 12/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The developmental competence of oocytes is acquired gradually during follicular development, mainly through oocyte accumulation of RNA molecules and proteins that will be used during fertilization and early embryonic development. Several attempts to develop in vitro culture systems to support preantral follicle development up to maturation are reported in the literature, but oocyte competence has not yet been achieved in human and domestic animals. The difficulties to have fertilizable oocytes are related to thousands of mRNAs and proteins that need to be synthesized, long-term duration of follicular development, size of preovulatory follicles, composition of in vitro culture medium, and the need of multi-step culture systems. The development of a culture system that maintains bidirectional communication between the oocyte and granulosa cells and that meets the metabolic demands of each stage of follicle growth is the key to sustain an extended culture period. This review discusses the physiological and molecular mechanisms that determine acquisition of oocyte competence in vitro, like oocyte transcriptional activity, follicle and oocyte sizes, and length and regulation of follicular development in murine, human, and domestic animal species. The state of art of in vitro follicular development and the challenges to have complete follicular development in vitro are also highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laís R F M Paulino
- Laboratory of Biotechnology and Physiology of Reproduction (LABIREP), Federal University of Ceara, Av. Comandante Maurocélio Rocha Ponte 100, Sobral, CE, CEP 62041-040, Brazil
| | - Ernando I T de Assis
- Laboratory of Biotechnology and Physiology of Reproduction (LABIREP), Federal University of Ceara, Av. Comandante Maurocélio Rocha Ponte 100, Sobral, CE, CEP 62041-040, Brazil
| | - Venância A N Azevedo
- Laboratory of Biotechnology and Physiology of Reproduction (LABIREP), Federal University of Ceara, Av. Comandante Maurocélio Rocha Ponte 100, Sobral, CE, CEP 62041-040, Brazil
| | - Bianca R Silva
- Laboratory of Biotechnology and Physiology of Reproduction (LABIREP), Federal University of Ceara, Av. Comandante Maurocélio Rocha Ponte 100, Sobral, CE, CEP 62041-040, Brazil
| | - Ellen V da Cunha
- Laboratory of Biotechnology and Physiology of Reproduction (LABIREP), Federal University of Ceara, Av. Comandante Maurocélio Rocha Ponte 100, Sobral, CE, CEP 62041-040, Brazil
| | - José R V Silva
- Laboratory of Biotechnology and Physiology of Reproduction (LABIREP), Federal University of Ceara, Av. Comandante Maurocélio Rocha Ponte 100, Sobral, CE, CEP 62041-040, Brazil.
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22
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Suebthawinkul C, Babayev E, Zhou LT, Lee HC, Duncan FE. Quantitative morphokinetic parameters identify novel dynamics of oocyte meiotic maturation and cumulus expansion†. Biol Reprod 2022; 107:1097-1112. [PMID: 35810327 PMCID: PMC9562117 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2022] [Revised: 05/30/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Meiotic maturation and cumulus expansion are essential for the generation of a developmentally competent gamete, and both processes can be recapitulated in vitro. We used a closed time-lapse incubator (EmbryoScope+™) to establish morphokinetic parameters of meiotic progression and cumulus expansion in mice and correlated these outcomes with egg ploidy. The average time to germinal vesicle breakdown (GVBD), time to first polar body extrusion (PBE), and duration of meiosis I were 0.91 ± 0.01, 8.82 ± 0.06, and 7.93 ± 0.06 h, respectively. The overall rate of cumulus layer expansion was 0.091 ± 0.002 μm/min, and the velocity of expansion peaked during the first 8 h of in vitro maturation (IVM) and then slowed. IVM of oocytes exposed to Nocodazole, a microtubule disrupting agent, and cumulus oocyte complexes (COCs) to 4-methylumbelliferone, a hyaluronan synthesis inhibitor, resulted in a dose-dependent perturbation of morphokinetics, thereby validating the system. The incidence of euploidy following IVM was >90% for both denuded oocytes and intact COCs. No differences were observed between euploid and aneuploid eggs with respect to time to GVBD (0.90 ± 0.22 vs. 0.97 ± 0.19 h), time to PBE (8.89 ± 0.98 vs. 9.10 ± 1.42 h), duration of meiosis I (8.01 ± 0.91 vs. 8.13 ± 1.38 h), and overall rate and kinetics of cumulus expansion (0.089 ± 0.02 vs 0.088 ± 0.03 μm/min) (P > 0.05). These morphokinetic parameters provide novel quantitative and non-invasive metrics for the evaluation of meiotic maturation and cumulus expansion and will enable screening compounds that modulate these processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chanakarn Suebthawinkul
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Elnur Babayev
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Luhan Tracy Zhou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Hoi Chang Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Francesca E Duncan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
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23
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Pors SE, Nikiforov D, Cadenas J, Ghezelayagh Z, Wakimoto Y, Jara LAZ, Cheng J, Dueholm M, Macklon KT, Flachs EM, Mamsen LS, Kristensen SG, Andersen CY. Oocyte diameter predicts the maturation rate of human immature oocytes collected ex vivo. J Assist Reprod Genet 2022; 39:2209-2214. [PMID: 36087150 PMCID: PMC9596637 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-022-02602-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To study the impact of oocyte diameter and cumulus cell mass on the potential for final maturation of immature human oocytes in vitro. Methods Immature oocytes (n = 1563) from 75 women undergoing fertility preservation by ovarian tissue cryopreservation (14–41 years) were collected. After preparation of the ovarian cortex for freezing, immature oocytes were collected from the surplus medulla. After collection, IVM was performed according to standard published methods. The mass of cumulus cell surrounding the immature oocyte was grouped according to size. After IVM, each oocyte was photographed, measured, and the diameter was calculated as a mean of two perpendicular measurements. Results The diameter of the oocytes ranged from 60 to 171 µm with a mean of 115 µm (SD:12.1) and an interquartile range from 107 to 124 µm. The oocyte diameter was positively associated with a higher incidence of MII (p < 0.001). MII oocytes had a significantly larger mean diameter than MI, GV, and degenerated oocytes. The size of the cumulus cell mass was significantly associated with the MII stage (p < 0.001) and larger oocyte diameter (p < 0.001). The results further confirm that the diameter of the fully grown oocyte is reached relatively early in human follicular development and that the factors governing oocyte maturation in vitro are connected to the surrounding cell mass and the oocyte. Conclusion The diameter of the oocyte is a highly determining factor in the nuclear maturation of the human oocyte during in vitro maturation, and the size of the cumulus cell mass is closely positively associated with a larger diameter.
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Affiliation(s)
- S E Pors
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, The Juliane Marie Centre for Women, Children and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital and Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - D Nikiforov
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, The Juliane Marie Centre for Women, Children and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital and Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - J Cadenas
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, The Juliane Marie Centre for Women, Children and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital and Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Z Ghezelayagh
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, The Juliane Marie Centre for Women, Children and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital and Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Y Wakimoto
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, The Juliane Marie Centre for Women, Children and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital and Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hyogo College of Medicine, Nishinomiya, Hyogo, 663-8501, Japan
| | - L A Z Jara
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, The Juliane Marie Centre for Women, Children and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital and Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - J Cheng
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, The Juliane Marie Centre for Women, Children and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital and Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark.,People's Hospital of Guangxi Autonomous Region, Nanning, 530000, China
| | - M Dueholm
- The Fertility Clinic, Aarhus University Hospital, Skejby, 8200, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - K T Macklon
- Juliane Marie Centre for Women, Children and Reproduction, The Fertility Clinic, Copenhagen University Hospital and Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - E M Flachs
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Bispebjerg University Hospital, 2200, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - L S Mamsen
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, The Juliane Marie Centre for Women, Children and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital and Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - S G Kristensen
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, The Juliane Marie Centre for Women, Children and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital and Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - C Yding Andersen
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, The Juliane Marie Centre for Women, Children and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital and Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Dietary Supplementation of Flaxseed ( Linum usitatissimum L.) Alters Ovarian Functions of Xylene-Exposed Mice. LIFE (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 12:life12081152. [PMID: 36013331 PMCID: PMC9410228 DOI: 10.3390/life12081152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Revised: 07/24/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The aim of the performed study was to examine the ability of xylene, flaxseed, and their combinations to affect morphological and endocrine indexes of murine ovaries. The 72 indexes of secondary and tertiary follicular cells, oocytes, corpora lutea, and ovarian stroma have been quantified: diameter, markers of proliferation PCNA and apoptosis caspase 3, receptors to FSH, oxytocin, estrogen (alpha and beta), and progesterone. In addition, concentrations of the ovarian hormones progesterone, estradiol, and IGF-I in the blood, as well as their production by isolated ovaries cultured with and without gonadotropins (FSH + LH mixture), were determined using histological, immunohistochemical, and immunoassay analyses. The character of xylene and flaxseed effects on ovarian functions in mice depended on the stage of ovarian folliculogenesis. It was shown that flaxseed could mitigate and prevent the major (63%) effects of xylene on the ovary. In addition, the ability of gonadotropins to affect ovarian hormone release and prevent its response to xylene has been shown. The effects of these additives could be mediated by changes in the release and reception of hormones. These observations suggest that flaxseed and possibly gonadotropins could be natural protectors of a female reproductive system against the adverse effects of xylene.
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25
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Palacios Martínez S, Greaney J, Zenker J. Beyond the centrosome: The mystery of microtubule organising centres across mammalian preimplantation embryos. Curr Opin Cell Biol 2022; 77:102114. [PMID: 35841745 DOI: 10.1016/j.ceb.2022.102114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Revised: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 06/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Mammalian preimplantation embryogenesis depends on the spatio-temporal dynamics of the microtubule cytoskeleton to enable exceptionally fast changes in cell number, function, architecture, and fate. Microtubule organising centres (MTOCs), which coordinate the remodelling of microtubules, are therefore of fundamental significance during the first days of a new life. Despite its indispensable role during early mammalian embryogenesis, the origin of microtubule growth remains poorly understood. In this review, we summarise the most recent discoveries on microtubule organisation and function during early human embryogenesis and compare these to innovative studies conducted in alternative mammalian models. We emphasise the differences and analogies of centriole inheritance and their role during the first cleavage. Furthermore, we highlight the significance of non-centrosomal MTOCs for embryo viability and discuss the potential of novel in vitro models and light-inducible approaches towards unravelling microtubule formation in research and assisted reproductive technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jessica Greaney
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jennifer Zenker
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.
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26
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Brunette MA, Kinnear HM, Hashim PH, Flanagan CL, Day JR, Cascalho M, Padmanabhan V, Shikanov A. Human Ovarian Follicles Xenografted in Immunoisolating Capsules Survive Long Term Implantation in Mice. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:886678. [PMID: 35721740 PMCID: PMC9205207 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.886678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Female pediatric cancer survivors often develop Premature Ovarian Insufficiency (POI) owing to gonadotoxic effects of anticancer treatments. Here we investigate the use of a cell-based therapy consisting of human ovarian cortex encapsulated in a poly-ethylene glycol (PEG)-based hydrogel that replicates the physiological cyclic and pulsatile hormonal patterns of healthy reproductive-aged women. Human ovarian tissue from four donors was analyzed for follicle density, with averages ranging between 360 and 4414 follicles/mm3. Follicles in the encapsulated and implanted cryopreserved human ovarian tissues survived up to three months, with average follicle densities ranging between 2 and 89 follicles/mm3 at retrieval. We conclude that encapsulation of human ovarian cortex in PEG-based hydrogels did not decrease follicle survival after implantation in mice and was similar to non-encapsulated grafts. Furthermore, this approach offers the means to replace the endocrine function of the ovary tissue in patients with POI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret A. Brunette
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Hadrian M. Kinnear
- Program in Cellular and Molecular Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- Medical Scientist Training Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Prianka H. Hashim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Colleen L. Flanagan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - James R. Day
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Marilia Cascalho
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Vasantha Padmanabhan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- Department of Pediatrics & Communicable Diseases, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Ariella Shikanov
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- Program in Cellular and Molecular Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
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27
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Li Y, Wei L, Meinsohn MC, Suliman R, Chauvin M, Berstler J, Hartland K, Jensen MM, Sicher NA, Nagykery N, Donahoe PK, Pepin D. A screen of repurposed drugs identifies AMHR2/MISR2 agonists as potential contraceptives. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:e2122512119. [PMID: 35380904 PMCID: PMC9169708 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2122512119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
We identified the anti-Mullerian hormone (also known as Müllerian inhibiting substance or MIS) as an inhibitory hormone that induces long-term contraception in mammals. The type II receptor to this hormone, AMHR2 (also known as MISR2), represents a promising druggable target for the modulation of female reproduction with a mechanism of action distinct from steroidal contraceptives. We designed an in vitro platform to screen and validate small molecules that can activate MISR2 signaling and suppress ovarian folliculogenesis. Using a bone morphogenesis protein (BMP)–response element luciferase reporter cell–based assay, we screened 5,440 compounds from a repurposed drug library. Positive hits in this screen were tested for specificity and potency in luciferase dose–response assays, and biological activity was tested in ex vivo Mullerian duct regression bioassays. Selected candidates were further evaluated in ex vivo follicle/ovary culture assays and in vivo in mice and rats. Here, we report that SP600125, CYC-116, gandotinib, and ruxolitinib can specifically inhibit primordial follicle activation and repress folliculogenesis by stimulating the MISR2 pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Li
- Pediatric Surgical Research Laboratories, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114
- Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115
| | - Lina Wei
- Pediatric Surgical Research Laboratories, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114
- Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115
| | - Marie-Charlotte Meinsohn
- Pediatric Surgical Research Laboratories, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114
- Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115
| | - Rana Suliman
- Pediatric Surgical Research Laboratories, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114
- Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115
| | - Maeva Chauvin
- Pediatric Surgical Research Laboratories, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114
- Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115
| | - Jim Berstler
- Center for the Development of Therapeutics (CDoT), Broad Institute of Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142
| | - Kate Hartland
- Center for the Development of Therapeutics (CDoT), Broad Institute of Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142
| | - Mark M Jensen
- Pediatric Surgical Research Laboratories, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114
- Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115
| | - Natalie A Sicher
- Pediatric Surgical Research Laboratories, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114
- Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115
| | - Nicholas Nagykery
- Pediatric Surgical Research Laboratories, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114
- Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115
| | - Patricia K Donahoe
- Pediatric Surgical Research Laboratories, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114
- Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115
| | - David Pepin
- Pediatric Surgical Research Laboratories, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114
- Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115
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28
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Strączyńska P, Papis K, Morawiec E, Czerwiński M, Gajewski Z, Olejek A, Bednarska-Czerwińska A. Signaling mechanisms and their regulation during in vivo or in vitro maturation of mammalian oocytes. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2022; 20:37. [PMID: 35209923 PMCID: PMC8867761 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-022-00906-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 02/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
In vitro fertilization (IVF) is currently one of the most effective methods of infertility treatment. An alternative to commonly used ovarian hyperstimulation can become extracorporeal maturation of oocytes (in vitro maturation; IVM). Fertilization and normal development of the embryo depends on the cytoplasmic, nuclear and genomic maturity of the oocyte. The microenvironment of the ovarian follicle and maternal signals, which mediate bidirectional communication between granulosa, cumulus and oocyte cells, influence the growth, maturation and acquisition of oocyte development capability. During oogenesis in mammals, the meiosis is inhibited in the oocyte at the prophase I of the meiotic division due to the high cAMP level. This level is maintained by the activity of C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP, NPPC) produced by granulosa cells. The CNP binds to the NPR2 receptor in cumulus cells and is responsible for the production of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP). The cGMP penetrating into the oocyte through gap junctions inhibits phosphodiesterase 3A (PDE3A), preventing cAMP hydrolysis responsible for low MPF activity. The LH surge during the reproductive cycle reduces the activity of the CNP/NPR2 complex, which results in a decrease in cGMP levels in cumulus cells and consequently in the oocyte. Reduced cGMP concentration unblocks the hydrolytic activity of PDE3A, which decreases cAMP level inside the oocyte. This leads to the activation of MPF and resumption of meiosis. The latest IVM methods called SPOM, NFSOM or CAPA IVM consist of two steps: prematuration and maturation itself. Taking into account the role of cAMP in inhibiting and then unblocking the maturation of oocytes, they have led to a significant progress in terms of the percentage of mature oocytes in vitro and the proportion of properly developed embryos in both animals and humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrycja Strączyńska
- Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Oncological Gynecology in Bytom, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
- Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
- Gyncentrum Fertility Clinic, Katowice, Poland
| | - Krzysztof Papis
- Center for Translational Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, Warsaw, Poland.
- nOvum Fertility Clinic, Warsaw, Poland.
| | - Emilia Morawiec
- Gyncentrum Fertility Clinic, Katowice, Poland
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine in Zabrze, University of Technology in Katowice, Katowice, Poland
| | | | - Zdzisław Gajewski
- Center for Translational Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Anita Olejek
- Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Oncological Gynecology in Bytom, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
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29
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Roos K, Rooda I, Keif RS, Liivrand M, Smolander OP, Salumets A, Velthut-Meikas A. Single-cell RNA-seq analysis and cell-cluster deconvolution of the human preovulatory follicular fluid cells provide insights into the pathophysiology of ovarian hyporesponse. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:945347. [PMID: 36339426 PMCID: PMC9635625 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.945347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Reduction in responsiveness to gonadotropins or hyporesponsiveness may lead to the failure of in vitro fertilization (IVF), due to a low number of retrieved oocytes. The ovarian sensitivity index (OSI) is used to reflect the ovarian responsiveness to gonadotropin stimulation before IVF. Although introduced to clinical practice already years ago, its usefulness to predict clinical outcomes requires further research. Nevertheless, pathophysiological mechanisms of ovarian hyporesponse, along with advanced maternal age and in younger women, have not been fully elucidated. Follicles consist of multiple cell types responsible for a repertoire of biological processes including responding to pituitary gonadotropins necessary for follicle growth and oocyte maturation as well as ovulation. Encouraging evidence suggests that hyporesponse could be influenced by many contributing factors, therefore, investigating the variability of ovarian follicular cell types and their gene expression in hyporesponders is highly informative for increasing their prognosis for IVF live birth. Due to advancements in single-cell analysis technologies, the role of somatic cell populations in the development of infertility of ovarian etiology can be clarified. Here, somatic cells were collected from the fluid of preovulatory ovarian follicles of patients undergoing IVF, and RNA-seq was performed to study the associations between OSI and gene expression. We identified 12 molecular pathways differentially regulated between hypo- and normoresponder patient groups (FDR<0.05) from which extracellular matrix organization, post-translational protein phosphorylation, and regulation of Insulin-like Growth Factor (IGF) transport and uptake by IGF Binding Proteins were regulated age-independently. We then generated single-cell RNA-seq data from matching follicles revealing 14 distinct cell clusters. Using cell cluster-specific deconvolution from the bulk RNA-seq data of 18 IVF patients we integrated the datasets as a novel approach and discovered that the abundance of three cell clusters significantly varied between hypo- and normoresponder groups suggesting their role in contributing to the deviations from normal ovarian response to gonadotropin stimulation. Our work uncovers new information regarding the differences in the follicular gene expression between hypo- and normoresponders. In addition, the current study fills the gap in understanding the inter-patient variability of cell types in human preovulatory follicles, as revealed by single-cell analysis of follicular fluid cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristine Roos
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Tallinn University of Technology, Tallinn, Estonia
- Nova Vita Clinic AS, Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Ilmatar Rooda
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Tallinn University of Technology, Tallinn, Estonia
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Robyn-Stefany Keif
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Tallinn University of Technology, Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Maria Liivrand
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Tallinn University of Technology, Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Olli-Pekka Smolander
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Tallinn University of Technology, Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Andres Salumets
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
- Competence Centre on Health Technologies, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Agne Velthut-Meikas
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Tallinn University of Technology, Tallinn, Estonia
- *Correspondence: Agne Velthut-Meikas,
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30
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Zhang H, Esposito M, Pezet MG, Aryaman J, Wei W, Klimm F, Calabrese C, Burr SP, Macabelli CH, Viscomi C, Saitou M, Chiaratti MR, Stewart JB, Jones N, Chinnery PF. Mitochondrial DNA heteroplasmy is modulated during oocyte development propagating mutation transmission. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2021; 7:eabi5657. [PMID: 34878831 PMCID: PMC8654302 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abi5657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 10/15/2021] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
Heteroplasmic mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) mutations are a common cause of inherited disease, but a few recurrent mutations account for the vast majority of new families. The reasons for this are not known. We studied heteroplasmic mice transmitting m.5024C>T corresponding to a human pathogenic mutation. Analyzing 1167 mother-pup pairs, we show that m.5024C>T is preferentially transmitted from low to higher levels but does not reach homoplasmy. Single-cell analysis of the developing mouse oocytes showed the preferential increase in mutant over wild-type mtDNA in the absence of cell division. A similar inheritance pattern is seen in human pedigrees transmitting several pathogenic mtDNA mutations. In m.5024C>T mice, this can be explained by the preferential propagation of mtDNA during oocyte maturation, counterbalanced by purifying selection against high heteroplasmy levels. This could explain how a disadvantageous mutation in a carrier increases to levels that cause disease but fails to fixate, causing multigenerational heteroplasmic mtDNA disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haixin Zhang
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, UK
- Medical Research Council Mitochondrial Biology Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, UK
| | - Marco Esposito
- EPSRC Centre for the Mathematics of Precision Healthcare, Department of Mathematics, Imperial College, London, UK
- Leverhulme Centre for Cellular Bionics, Imperial College, London, UK
| | - Mikael G. Pezet
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, UK
- Medical Research Council Mitochondrial Biology Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, UK
| | - Juvid Aryaman
- EPSRC Centre for the Mathematics of Precision Healthcare, Department of Mathematics, Imperial College, London, UK
| | - Wei Wei
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, UK
- Medical Research Council Mitochondrial Biology Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, UK
| | - Florian Klimm
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, UK
- Medical Research Council Mitochondrial Biology Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, UK
- EPSRC Centre for the Mathematics of Precision Healthcare, Department of Mathematics, Imperial College, London, UK
| | - Claudia Calabrese
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, UK
- Medical Research Council Mitochondrial Biology Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, UK
| | - Stephen P. Burr
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, UK
- Medical Research Council Mitochondrial Biology Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, UK
| | - Carolina H. Macabelli
- Departamento de Genética e Evolução, Universidade Federal de São Carlos, São Carlos 13565-905, Brazil
| | - Carlo Viscomi
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, UK
- Medical Research Council Mitochondrial Biology Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, UK
| | - Mitinori Saitou
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Yoshida-Konoe-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan
- JST, ERATO, Yoshida-Konoe-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan
| | - Marcos R. Chiaratti
- Departamento de Genética e Evolução, Universidade Federal de São Carlos, São Carlos 13565-905, Brazil
| | - James B. Stewart
- Max Planck Institute for Biology of Ageing, Cologne 50931, Germany
- Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Wellcome Centre for Mitochondrial Research, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Nick Jones
- EPSRC Centre for the Mathematics of Precision Healthcare, Department of Mathematics, Imperial College, London, UK
- Leverhulme Centre for Cellular Bionics, Imperial College, London, UK
| | - Patrick F. Chinnery
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, UK
- Medical Research Council Mitochondrial Biology Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, UK
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31
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Kataruka S, Kinterova V, Horvat F, Kulmann MIR, Kanka J, Svoboda P. Physiologically relevant miRNAs in mammalian oocytes are rare and highly abundant. EMBO Rep 2021; 23:e53514. [PMID: 34866300 PMCID: PMC8811628 DOI: 10.15252/embr.202153514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Revised: 11/14/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
miRNAs, ˜22nt small RNAs associated with Argonaute (AGO) proteins, are important negative regulators of gene expression in mammalian cells. However, mammalian maternal miRNAs show negligible repressive activity and the miRNA pathway is dispensable for oocytes and maternal-to-zygotic transition. The stoichiometric hypothesis proposed that this is caused by dilution of maternal miRNAs during oocyte growth. As the dilution affects miRNAs but not mRNAs, it creates unfavorable miRNA:mRNA stoichiometry for efficient repression of cognate mRNAs. Here, we report that porcine ssc-miR-205 and bovine bta-miR-10b are exceptional miRNAs, which resist the diluting effect of oocyte growth and can efficiently suppress gene expression. Additional analysis of ssc-miR-205 shows that it has higher stability, reduces expression of endogenous targets, and contributes to the porcine oocyte-to-embryo transition. Consistent with the stoichiometric hypothesis, our results show that the endogenous miRNA pathway in mammalian oocytes is intact and that maternal miRNAs can efficiently suppress gene expression when a favorable miRNA:mRNA stoichiometry is established.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shubhangini Kataruka
- Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague 4, Czech Republic
| | - Veronika Kinterova
- Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Liběchov, Czech Republic
| | - Filip Horvat
- Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague 4, Czech Republic.,Bioinformatics Group, Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | | | - Jiri Kanka
- Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Liběchov, Czech Republic
| | - Petr Svoboda
- Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague 4, Czech Republic
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32
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Kobayashi M, Jamieson-Lucy A, Mullins MC. Microinjection Method for Analyzing Zebrafish Early Stage Oocytes. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:753642. [PMID: 34820378 PMCID: PMC8607826 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.753642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2021] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Maternal factors which accumulate and establish oocyte polarity during the early stages of oogenesis play key roles in embryonic development, as well as germ cell formation. However, vertebrate oogenesis, especially early stages of oogenesis, is not well understood due to the difficulty of accessing these oocytes and the lack of analytical methods. Here, we report on a microinjection method for analyzing zebrafish early-stage oocytes and some artifacts to be aware of when performing oocyte injections or analyzing oocytes. Using this method, we successfully injected mRNAs encoding fluorescent-tagged proteins into early-stage oocytes and observed subcellular localization in the live oocytes. This method is expected to advance the functional analysis of genes involved in oogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manami Kobayashi
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Allison Jamieson-Lucy
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Mary C Mullins
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, United States
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Schneider I, de Ruijter-Villani M, Hossain MJ, Stout TA, Ellenberg J. Dual spindles assemble in bovine zygotes despite the presence of paternal centrosomes. J Cell Biol 2021; 220:e202010106. [PMID: 34550316 PMCID: PMC8563290 DOI: 10.1083/jcb.202010106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Revised: 07/05/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The first mitosis of the mammalian embryo must partition the parental genomes contained in two pronuclei. In rodent zygotes, sperm centrosomes are degraded, and instead, acentriolar microtubule organizing centers and microtubule self-organization guide the assembly of two separate spindles around the genomes. In nonrodent mammals, including human or bovine, centrosomes are inherited from the sperm and have been widely assumed to be active. Whether nonrodent zygotes assemble a single centrosomal spindle around both genomes or follow the dual spindle self-assembly pathway is unclear. To address this, we investigated spindle assembly in bovine zygotes by systematic immunofluorescence and real-time light-sheet microscopy. We show that two independent spindles form despite the presence of centrosomes, which had little effect on spindle structure and were only loosely connected to the two spindles. We conclude that the dual spindle assembly pathway is conserved in nonrodent mammals. This could explain whole parental genome loss frequently observed in blastomeres of human IVF embryos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabell Schneider
- Cell Biology and Biophysics Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Marta de Ruijter-Villani
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
- Division of Woman and Baby, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - M. Julius Hossain
- Cell Biology and Biophysics Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Tom A.E. Stout
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Jan Ellenberg
- Cell Biology and Biophysics Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany
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Vitrifying multiple embryos in different arrangements does not alter the cooling rate. Cryobiology 2021; 103:22-31. [PMID: 34715113 DOI: 10.1016/j.cryobiol.2021.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2021] [Revised: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Vitrification is the most common method of cryopreservation of gametes in fertility clinics due to its improved survival rates compared to slow freezing techniques. For the Open Cryotop® vitrification device, the number of oocytes, or embryos, mounted onto a single device can vary. In this work, a mathematical model is developed for the cooling of oocytes and embryos (samples). The model is solved computationally, to investigate whether varying the number of samples mounted onto the Open Cryotop® affects the cooling rates, and consequently the survival rates, of vitrified samples. Several realistic spatial arrangements of samples are examined, determining their temperature over time. In this way we quantify the effect of spatial arrangement on the cooling rate. Our results indicate that neither the spatial arrangement nor the number of mounted samples has a large effect on cooling rates, so long as the volume of the cryoprotectant remains minimal. The time taken for cooling is found to be on the order of half a second, or less, regardless of the spatial arrangement or number of mounted samples. Hence, rapid cooling can be achieved for any number or arrangement of samples, as long as device manufacturer guidelines are adhered to.
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Lee S, Kang HG, Ryou C, Cheon YP. Spatiotemporal expression of aquaporin 9 is critical for the antral growth of mouse ovarian follicles†. Biol Reprod 2021; 103:828-839. [PMID: 32577722 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioaa108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2019] [Revised: 09/21/2019] [Accepted: 06/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Although a few aquaporins (AQPs) expressed in granulosa cells have been postulated to mediate fluid passage into the antrum, the specific expression of AQPs in different follicle cell types and stages and their roles have not been evaluated extensively. The spatiotemporal expression of aquaporin (Aqp) 7, 8, and 9 and the functional roles of Aqp9 in antral growth and ovulation were examined using a superovulation model and 3-dimensional follicle culture. Aqp9 was expressed at a high level in the rapid growth phase (24-48 h post equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG) for superovulation induction) compared to Aqp7 (after human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG)) and Aqp8 (8-24 h post eCG and 24 h post hCG). A dramatic increase in the expression and localization of Aqp9 mRNA in theca cells was observed, as evaluated using quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase (RT-PCR) coupled with laser capture microdissection and immunohistochemistry. AQP9 was located primarily on the theca cells of the tertiary and preovulatory follicles but not on the ovulated follicles. In phloretin-treated mice, the diameter of the preovulatory follicles and the number of ovulated oocytes decreased. Consistent with these findings, knocking down Aqp9 expression with an Aqp9 siRNA inhibited follicle growth (0.28:1 = siRNA:control) and decreased the number of ovulated follicles (0.36:1 = siRNA:control) during in vitro growth and ovulation induction. Based on these results, the expression of AQPs is under the control of the physiological status, and AQP9 expression in theca during folliculogenesis is required for antral growth and ovulation in a tissue-specific and stage-dependent manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sungeun Lee
- Department of Biotechnology, Sungshin University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hee-Gyoo Kang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Institute of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Eulji University, Seongnam-Si, Gyeonggi-Do, Korea
| | - Chongsuk Ryou
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Hanyang University, Ansan, Gyeonggi-do, Korea
| | - Yong-Pil Cheon
- Department of Biotechnology, Sungshin University, Seoul, Korea
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Oubiña G, Pascuali N, Scotti L, Bianchi S, May M, Martínez JE, Marchese Ragona C, Higuera J, Abramovich D, Parborell F. Local application of low level laser therapy in mice ameliorates ovarian damage induced by cyclophosphamide. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2021; 531:111318. [PMID: 33989716 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2021.111318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2020] [Revised: 05/05/2021] [Accepted: 05/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
The aim of the present study is to assess whether low level laser therapy (LLLT) can protect ovaries from chemotherapy-induced gonadotoxicity using a mice model of premature ovarian failure induced by cyclophosphamide (CTX). LLLT (64 J/cm2) increased the number of antral follicles whilst decreasing the number of atretic follicles compared to CTX alone. LLLT increased the number of primordial follicles compared with those in the CTX group but they did not differ from those in the control group. LLLT treatment increased the number of AMH-positive follicles compared to CTX alone. LLLT application increased ovarian weight, serum progesterone concentration and P450scc protein levels compared to CTX alone. LLLT reduced the apoptosis in antral follicles and the BAX/BCL-2 ratio compared to CTX alone. Vascular morphology, analysed by CD31 and α-SMA immunostaining, was restored in LLLT-treated ovaries compared to CTX alone. In conclusion, application of LLLT prior to CTX might serve as a promising and novel protocol to preserve female fertility in cancer survivors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gonzalo Oubiña
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IByME) - CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Natalia Pascuali
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IByME) - CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Leopoldina Scotti
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IByME) - CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Silvia Bianchi
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IByME) - CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María May
- Instituto de Investigaciones Farmacológicas (ININFA-UBA-CONICET), Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | | | | | - Dalhia Abramovich
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IByME) - CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Fernanda Parborell
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IByME) - CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
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Lin JC, Van Eenennaam AL. Electroporation-Mediated Genome Editing of Livestock Zygotes. Front Genet 2021; 12:648482. [PMID: 33927751 PMCID: PMC8078910 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2021.648482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The introduction of genome editing reagents into mammalian zygotes has traditionally been accomplished by cytoplasmic or pronuclear microinjection. This time-consuming procedure requires expensive equipment and a high level of skill. Electroporation of zygotes offers a simplified and more streamlined approach to transfect mammalian zygotes. There are a number of studies examining the parameters used in electroporation of mouse and rat zygotes. Here, we review the electroporation conditions, timing, and success rates that have been reported for mice and rats, in addition to the few reports about livestock zygotes, specifically pigs and cattle. The introduction of editing reagents at, or soon after, fertilization can help reduce the rate of mosaicism, the presence of two of more genotypes in the cells of an individual; as can the introduction of nuclease proteins rather than mRNA encoding nucleases. Mosaicism is particularly problematic in large livestock species with long generation intervals as it can take years to obtain non-mosaic, homozygous offspring through breeding. Gene knockouts accomplished via the non-homologous end joining pathway have been more widely reported and successfully accomplished using electroporation than have gene knock-ins. Delivering large DNA plasmids into the zygote is hindered by the zona pellucida (ZP), and the majority of gene knock-ins accomplished by electroporation have been using short single stranded DNA (ssDNA) repair templates, typically less than 1 kb. The most promising approach to deliver larger donor repair templates of up to 4.9 kb along with genome editing reagents into zygotes, without using cytoplasmic injection, is to use recombinant adeno-associated viruses (rAAVs) in combination with electroporation. However, similar to other methods used to deliver clustered regularly interspaced palindromic repeat (CRISPR) genome-editing reagents, this approach is also associated with high levels of mosaicism. Recent developments complementing germline ablated individuals with edited germline-competent cells offer an approach to avoid mosaicism in the germline of genome edited founder lines. Even with electroporation-mediated delivery of genome editing reagents to mammalian zygotes, there remain additional chokepoints in the genome editing pipeline that currently hinder the scalable production of non-mosaic genome edited livestock.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason C Lin
- Department of Animal Science, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
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New insights into the GDF9-Hedgehog-GLI signaling pathway in human ovaries: from fetus to postmenopause. J Assist Reprod Genet 2021; 38:1387-1403. [PMID: 33772413 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-021-02161-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2020] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Are glioma-associated oncogene homolog 1, 2, and 3 (GLI1, 2, and 3) and protein patched homolog 1 (PTCH1) specific markers for precursor theca cells in human ovaries as in mouse ovaries? DESIGN To study the GDF9-HH-GLI pathway and assess whether GLI1 and 3 and PTCH1 are specific markers for precursor theca cells in the human ovary, growth differentiation factor 9 (GDF9), Indian Hedgehog (IHH), Desert Hedgehog (DHH), Sonic Hedgehog (SHH), PTCH1 and GLI1, 2 and 3 were investigated in fetal (n=9), prepubertal (n=9), reproductive-age (n=15), and postmenopausal (n=8) human ovarian tissue. Immunohistochemistry against GDF9, IHH, DHH, SHH, PTCH1, GLI1, GLI2, and GLI3 was performed on human ovarian tissue sections fixed in 4% formaldehyde and embedded in paraffin. Western blotting was carried out on extracted proteins from the same samples used in the previous step to prove the antibodies' specificity. The quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction was performed to identify mRNA levels for Gdf9, Ihh, Gli1, Gli2, and Gli3 in menopausal ovaries. RESULTS Our results showed that, in contrast to mice, all studied proteins were expressed in primordial follicles of fetal, prepubertal, and reproductive-age human ovaries and stromal cells of reproductive-age and postmenopausal ovaries. Intriguingly, Gdf9, Ihh, and Gli3 mRNA, but not Gli1 and 2, was detected in postmenopausal ovaries. Moreover, GLI1, GLI3, and PTCH1 are not limited to a specific population of cells. They were spread throughout the organ, which means they are not specific markers for precursor theca cells in human ovaries. CONCLUSION These results could provide a basis for understanding how this pathway modulates follicle development and ovarian cell steroidogenesis in human ovaries.
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In vitro growth culture in a medium with reduced sodium chloride improves maturation and developmental competence of pig oocytes derived from small antral follicles. Theriogenology 2021; 165:37-43. [PMID: 33639366 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.12.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Revised: 10/11/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of reducing the sodium chloride content in in vitro growth (IVG) medium to 61.6 mM on in vitro maturation (IVM) and embryonic development of pig oocytes derived from small antral follicles (SAF) less than 3 mm in diameter. SAF oocytes were cultured for 2 days to induce IVG in alpha-minimal essential medium with 108 mM NaCl (αMEM-108) or porcine zygote medium (PZM) containing 61.6 mM (PZM-61.6) or 108 mM (PZM-108) NaCl. These media were further supplemented with 1 mM dibutyryl cyclic adenosine monophosphate (dbcAMP) and 10% (v/v) fetal bovine serum. After IVG culture, oocytes were matured for 44 h in our standard IVM medium. The IVG culture in PZM-61.6 significantly increased nuclear maturation (88.0 ± 2.2%) of SAF oocytes compared to that in PZM-108 (77.3 ± 3.9%) or αMEM-108 (75.9 ± 3.8%). After parthenogenesis (PA), the proportions of blastocysts, based on the number of metaphase II (MII) oocytes, induced for PA were not different among IVG oocytes cultured in PZM-61.6 (50.2 ± 3.0%), PZM-108 (46.8 ± 2.9%), or αMEM-108 (45.6 ± 2.9%). The IVM oocytes derived from IVG in PZM-61.6 showed increased perivitelline space (PVS) (12.1 ± 0.6 μm) and intra-oocyte glutathione (GSH) content (1.19 ± 0.04 pixels/oocyte) compared to PVS (8.0 ± 0.5 and 7.4 ± 0.4 μm) and GSH (1.03 ± 0.04 and 1.00 ± 0.04 pixels/oocyte) of oocytes derived from PZM-108 and αMEM-108, respectively. The IVG culture in PZM-61.6 stimulated meiotic resumption after IVG and faster nuclear progression after IVM than that in αMEM-108. After somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT), the blastocyst formation of SAF oocytes grown in PZM-61.6 (17.8 ± 3.3%) was higher than that of oocytes grown in PZM-108 (7.5 ± 2.7%) but not different from that of oocytes in αMEM-108 (11.4 ± 3.4%). Regardless of the different osmotic pressures, nuclear maturation was significantly increased by IVG culture in PZM with reduced NaCl (86.8 ± 2.3 and 84.9 ± 4.2% in PZM-61.6 and PZM-61.6 with sorbitol, respectively) than in PZM-108 (70.5 ± 3.4%). Blastocyst formation was not affected by the differences in NaCl content and osmotic pressure of the IVG medium, whereas the mean number of cells in blastocysts was significantly higher following IVG culture in PZM-61.6 than in the other groups. In conclusion, the results demonstrate that, following SCNT in pigs, IVG culture of SAF oocytes in a medium with a reduced NaCl concentration stimulates oocyte maturation and improves subsequent embryonic development.
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Dela Cruz C, Horton CA, Sanders KN, Andersen ND, Tsai PS. Conditional Fgfr1 Deletion in GnRH Neurons Leads to Minor Disruptions in the Reproductive Axis of Male and Female Mice. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 11:588459. [PMID: 33679600 PMCID: PMC7933197 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2020.588459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In humans and mice, inactivating mutations in fibroblast growth factor receptor 1 (Fgfr1) lead to gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) deficiency and a host of downstream reproductive disorders. It was unclear if Fgfr1 signaling directly upon GnRH neurons critically drove the establishment of a functional GnRH system. To answer this question, we generated a mouse model with a conditional deletion of Fgfr1 in GnRH neurons using the Cre/loxP approach. These mice, called Fgfr1cKO mice, were examined along with control mice for their pubertal onset and a host of reproductive axis functions. Our results showed that Fgfr1cKO mice harbored no detectable defects in the GnRH system and pubertal onset, suffered only subtle changes in the pituitary function, but exhibited significantly disrupted testicular and ovarian morphology at 25 days of age, indicating impaired gametogenesis at a young age. However, these disruptions were transient and became undetectable in older mice. Our results suggest that Fgfr1 signaling directly on GnRH neurons supports, to some extent, the reproductive axis function in the period leading to the early phase of puberty, but is not critically required for pubertal onset or reproductive maintenance in sexually mature animals.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Pei-San Tsai
- Department of Integrative Physiology, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO, United States
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Storey A, Elgmati K, Wang Y, Knaggs P, Swann K. The role of ATP in the differential ability of Sr2+ to trigger Ca2+ oscillations in mouse and human eggs. Mol Hum Reprod 2021; 27:gaaa086. [PMID: 33543292 PMCID: PMC7846092 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaaa086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2020] [Revised: 12/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
At fertilization in mice and humans, the activation of the egg is caused by a series of repetitive Ca2+ oscillations which are initiated by phospholipase-C(zeta)ζ that generates inositol-1,4,5-trisphophate (InsP3). Ca2+ oscillations and egg activation can be triggered in mature mouse eggs by incubation in Sr2+ containing medium, but this does not appear to be effective in human eggs. Here, we have investigated the reason for this apparent difference using mouse eggs, and human eggs that failed to fertilize after IVF or ICSI. Mouse eggs incubated in Ca2+-free, Sr2+-containing medium immediately underwent Ca2+ oscillations but human eggs consistently failed to undergo Ca2+ oscillations in the same Sr2+ medium. We tested the InsP3-receptor (IP3R) sensitivity directly by photo-release of caged InsP3 and found that mouse eggs were about 10 times more sensitive to InsP3 than human eggs. There were no major differences in the Ca2+ store content between mouse and human eggs. However, we found that the ATP concentration was consistently higher in mouse compared to human eggs. When ATP levels were lowered in mouse eggs by incubation in pyruvate-free medium, Sr2+ failed to cause Ca2+ oscillations. When pyruvate was added back to these eggs, the ATP levels increased and Ca2+ oscillations were induced. This suggests that ATP modulates the ability of Sr2+ to stimulate IP3R-induced Ca2+ release in eggs. We suggest that human eggs may be unresponsive to Sr2+ medium because they have a lower level of cytosolic ATP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Storey
- Wales Fertility Institute, University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff, UK
| | | | - Yisu Wang
- School of Biosiences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Paul Knaggs
- Wales Fertility Institute, University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff, UK
| | - Karl Swann
- School of Biosiences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
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Human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells improve morphometric and histopathologic changes of cyclophosphamide-injured ovarian follicles in mouse model of premature ovarian failure. Acta Histochem 2021; 123:151658. [PMID: 33249312 DOI: 10.1016/j.acthis.2020.151658] [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: 08/31/2020] [Revised: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mesenchymal stem cells have restorative effects on premature ovarian failure (POF). The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of human umbilical cord vein MSCs (hUCV-MSCs) on follicular quantitative parameters and histological changes of ovaries in the cyclophosphamide (CTX)-induced POF in mice. MATERIALS AND METHODS C57BL/6 mice were divided into three groups (10 mice in each group). In the control group, phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) was injected via tail vein following 15 days injection of PBS intraperitoneally (IP). In the CTX group, CTX was administered IP for 15 days and then PBS was injected via tail vein. In the CTX + hUCV-MSCs group, following CTX administration, single dose of the 1 × 106 of hUCV-MSCs were injected into tail vein. H&E, trichrome and PAS staining as well as TUNEL assay were performed on the ovaries tissue sections. The number of follicles, follicular quantitative parameters and apoptotic index were obtained. The serum levels of estradiol and FSH were measured in the mice. RESULTS In the CTX + hUCV-MSCs group, degenerative changes were decreased and follicular quantitative parameters increased in the ovarian follicles compared to the CTX group. In this group number of follicles was increased, apoptotic index was decreased, estradiol and FSH levels were decreased and increased, respectively, all of them improved compared to the CTX group. The mean percentage areas of collagen fibers content were decreased compared to the CTX group. CONCLUSION Results showed that, hUCV-MSCs administration increases follicular quantitative parameters and improve degenerative changes in the follicles following CTX injury.
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Zanini BM, Andrade KRS, Pradiee J, Veiga GB, Garcia DN, Mondadori RG, Cruz LAX, Alvarado-Rincón JA, Ramirez RP, Saccon TD, Masternak MM, Barros CC, Schneider A. Calorie restriction during gestation affects ovarian reserve in offspring in the mouse. Reprod Fertil Dev 2020; 32:1338-1349. [PMID: 33243369 DOI: 10.1071/rd20107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2020] [Accepted: 10/27/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of calorie restriction (CR) during pregnancy in mice on metabolism and ovarian function in the offspring. Pregnant female mice were divided into two groups, a control group and a CR group (n=7 in each). Mice in the CR group were fed 50% of the amount consumed by control females from Day 10 of gestation until delivery. After weaning, the offspring received diet ad libitum until 3 months of age, when ovaries were collected. Ovaries were serially cut and every sixth section was used for follicle counting. Female offspring from CR dams tended to have increased bodyweight compared with offspring from control females (P=0.08). Interestingly, fewer primordial follicles (60% reduction; P=0.001), transitional follicles (P=0.0006) and total follicles (P=0.006) were observed in offspring from CR mothers. The number of primary, secondary and tertiary follicles did not differ between the groups (P>0.05). The CR offspring had fewer DNA double-strand breaks in primary follicle oocytes (P=0.03). In summary, CR during the second half of gestation decreased primordial ovarian follicle reserve in female offspring. These findings suggest that undernutrition during the second half of gestation may decrease the reproductive lifespan of female offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bianka M Zanini
- Faculdade de Nutrição, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Pelotas, RS, Brazil
| | - Kelvin R S Andrade
- Faculdade de Nutrição, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Pelotas, RS, Brazil
| | - Jorgea Pradiee
- Faculdade de Nutrição, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Pelotas, RS, Brazil
| | - Gabriel B Veiga
- Faculdade de Nutrição, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Pelotas, RS, Brazil
| | - Driele N Garcia
- Centro de Desenvolvimento Tecnológico, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Pelotas, RS, Brazil
| | - Rafael G Mondadori
- Instituto de Biologia, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Pelotas, RS, Brazil
| | - Luís A X Cruz
- Instituto de Biologia, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Pelotas, RS, Brazil
| | | | - Renata P Ramirez
- Faculdade de Nutrição, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Pelotas, RS, Brazil
| | - Tatiana D Saccon
- Centro de Desenvolvimento Tecnológico, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Pelotas, RS, Brazil
| | - Michal M Masternak
- Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, USA
| | - Carlos C Barros
- Faculdade de Nutrição, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Pelotas, RS, Brazil
| | - Augusto Schneider
- Faculdade de Nutrição, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Pelotas, RS, Brazil; and Corresponding author.
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Dutta R, Mandal S, Lin HCA, Raz T, Kind A, Schnieke A, Razansky D. Brilliant cresyl blue enhanced optoacoustic imaging enables non-destructive imaging of mammalian ovarian follicles for artificial reproduction. J R Soc Interface 2020; 17:20200776. [PMID: 33143591 DOI: 10.1098/rsif.2020.0776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
In the field of reproductive biology, there is a strong need for a suitable tool capable of non-destructive evaluation of oocyte viability and function. We studied the application of brilliant cresyl blue (BCB) as an intra-vital exogenous contrast agent using multispectral optoacoustic tomography (MSOT) for visualization of porcine ovarian follicles. The technique provided excellent molecular sensitivity, enabling the selection of competent oocytes without disrupting the follicles. We further conducted in vitro embryo culture, molecular analysis (real-time and reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction) and DNA fragmentation analysis to comprehensively establish the safety of BCB-enhanced MSOT imaging in monitoring oocyte viability. Overall, the experimental results suggest that the method offers a significant advance in the use of contrast agents and molecular imaging for reproductive studies. Our technique improves the accurate prediction of ovarian reserve significantly and, once standardized for in vivo imaging, could provide an effective tool for clinical infertility management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rahul Dutta
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Subhamoy Mandal
- Institute for Biological and Medical Imaging, Helmholtz Center Munich, Neuherberg, Germany.,Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Technical University of Munich, Germany
| | - Hsiao-Chun Amy Lin
- Institute for Biological and Medical Imaging, Helmholtz Center Munich, Neuherberg, Germany.,iThera Medical GmbH, Munich, Germany
| | - Tal Raz
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Alexander Kind
- Chair of Livestock Biotechnology, Technical University of Munich, Germany
| | - Angelika Schnieke
- Chair of Livestock Biotechnology, Technical University of Munich, Germany
| | - Daniel Razansky
- Institute for Biological and Medical Imaging, Helmholtz Center Munich, Neuherberg, Germany.,Institute for Biomedical Engineering and Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich and ETH Zurich, Switzerland
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45
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Saito K, Motani Y, Takae S, Suzuki N, Tsukada K. Convolutional neural network-based automatic detection of follicle cells in ovarian tissue using optical coherence tomography. Biomed Phys Eng Express 2020; 6. [PMID: 34035193 DOI: 10.1088/2057-1976/abc3d4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2020] [Accepted: 10/22/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
To preserve the fertility of young female cancer patients, ovarian tissue cryopreservation and transplantation have been investigated as next-generation reproductive medical technologies. Non-invasive visualization of follicles in ovarian tissue and cryopreservation of higher density tissue is essential for effective transplantation. We proposed the use of optical coherence tomography (OCT) that can noninvasively visualize the internal structure of the ovarian tissue. However, a method for quantifying cell density has not yet been established because of the lack of available techniques to visualize follicles noninvasively. We proposed the use of a convolutional neural network (CNN) to extract small features from medical images as an image analysis method to automatically detect follicles from the obtained OCT images. First, we collected a total of 13 ovarian tissues from four-day-old mice and acquired OCT images using a full-field-type OCT. Then, the acquired images were analyzed using three detection methods: filter processing, filter processing combined with the CNN, and only CNN. Finally, to verify the detection accuracy of each method, the detection rate and precision were calculated by taking the doctor's detection as the correct result. The results showed that the detection method only using CNN achieved a detection rate of 0.81 and precision of 0.67; this indicated that follicles could be effectively detected using our proposed method. Furthermore, it is quantitatively evident that the density of follicles from the surface layer to the deep region differs depending on the tissue. In the future, these results could be used to detect follicles in tissues of different maturation stages and quantify follicles three-dimensionally, further accelerating next-generation reproductive medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kasumi Saito
- Graduate School of Fundamental Science and Technology, Keio University, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Yuki Motani
- Graduate School of Fundamental Science and Technology, Keio University, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Seido Takae
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, St. Marianna University School of Medicine, Kawasaki, Japan
| | - Nao Suzuki
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, St. Marianna University School of Medicine, Kawasaki, Japan
| | - Kosuke Tsukada
- Graduate School of Fundamental Science and Technology, Keio University, Yokohama, Japan
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46
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Feng X, Xie FY, Ou XH, Ma JY. Cruciform DNA in mouse growing oocytes: Its dynamics and its relationship with DNA transcription. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0240844. [PMID: 33079963 PMCID: PMC7575099 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0240844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2020] [Accepted: 10/04/2020] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Cruciform DNA is a causing factor of genome instability and chromosomal translocation, however, most studies about cruciform DNA in mammalian cells were based on palindromic sequences containing plasmids and reports about endogenous cruciform DNA are rare. In this study we observed the dynamics of endogenous cruciform DNA in mouse growing oocytes using immunofluorescence labeling method. We found cruciform DNA foci exist in transcription active growing oocytes but not in transcription inactive fully grown oocytes and colocalized with Parp1 but not with DNA damage marker γH2A.X. By analyzing the Genotype-Tissue Expression data, we found cruciform DNA-mediated chromosomal translocation in human spermatocytes is associated with the specific DNA transcription in testis. When inhibiting the transcription with α-amanitin in mouse oocytes, we found oocyte cruciform DNA foci decreased significantly. In summary, we observed the endogenous cruciform DNA in growing oocytes and our results showed that the cruciform DNA formation is transcription-dependent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xie Feng
- The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Fertility Preservation Lab, Reproductive Medicine Center, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - Feng-Yun Xie
- Fertility Preservation Lab, Reproductive Medicine Center, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiang-Hong Ou
- The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Fertility Preservation Lab, Reproductive Medicine Center, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou, China
- Bioland Laboratory (Guangzhou Regenerative Medicine and Health Guangdong Laboratory), Guangzhou, China
- * E-mail: (J-YM); (X-HO)
| | - Jun-Yu Ma
- Fertility Preservation Lab, Reproductive Medicine Center, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou, China
- * E-mail: (J-YM); (X-HO)
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47
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Chen Y, Wang X, Yang C, Liu Q, Ran Z, Li X, He C. A mouse model reveals the events and underlying regulatory signals during the gonadotrophin-dependent phase of follicle development. Mol Hum Reprod 2020; 26:920-937. [PMID: 33063120 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaaa069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2020] [Revised: 09/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
During folliculogenesis, the gonadotrophin (GTH)-dependent phase begins at the small antral follicle stage and ends with Graafian follicles. In this study, pregnant mare's serum GTH was used to induce GTH-dependent folliculogenesis in mice, following which the developmental events that follicles undergo, as well as the underlying regulatory signals, were investigated at both the morphological and transcriptomic level. GTH-dependent folliculogenesis consisted of three phases: preparation, rapid growth and decelerated growth. In the preparation phase, comprising the first 12 h, granulosa cells completed the preparations for proliferation and differentiation, shifted energy metabolism to glycolysis, and reduced protein synthesis and processing. The rapid growth phase lasted from 12 to 24 h; in this phase, granulosa cells completed their proliferation, and follicles acquired the capacity for estradiol secretion and ovulation. Meanwhile, the decelerating growth phase occurred between 24 and 48 h of GTH-dependent folliculogenesis. In this phase, the proliferation and expansion of the follicular antrum were reduced, energy metabolism was shifted to oxidative phosphorylation, and cell migration and lipid metabolism were enhanced in preparation for luteinization. We also revealed the key signaling pathways that regulate GTH-dependent folliculogenesis and elucidated the activation sequence of these pathways. A comparison of our RNA-sequencing data with that reported for humans suggested that the mechanisms involved in mouse and human folliculogenesis are evolutionarily conserved. In this study, we draw a detailed atlas of GTH-dependent folliculogenesis, thereby laying the foundation for further investigation of the regulatory mechanisms underlying this process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingjun Chen
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, Hubei, China.,National Center for International Research on Animal Genetics, Breeding and reproduction, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, Hubei, China.,Department of Hubei Province Engineering Research Center in Buffalo Breeding and Products, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, Hubei, China.,College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, Hubei, China
| | - Xiaodong Wang
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, Hubei, China.,National Center for International Research on Animal Genetics, Breeding and reproduction, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, Hubei, China.,Department of Hubei Province Engineering Research Center in Buffalo Breeding and Products, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, Hubei, China.,College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, Hubei, China
| | - Chan Yang
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, Hubei, China.,National Center for International Research on Animal Genetics, Breeding and reproduction, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, Hubei, China.,Department of Hubei Province Engineering Research Center in Buffalo Breeding and Products, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, Hubei, China.,College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, Hubei, China
| | - Qinghua Liu
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, Hubei, China.,National Center for International Research on Animal Genetics, Breeding and reproduction, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, Hubei, China.,Department of Hubei Province Engineering Research Center in Buffalo Breeding and Products, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, Hubei, China.,College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, Hubei, China
| | - Zaohong Ran
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, Hubei, China.,National Center for International Research on Animal Genetics, Breeding and reproduction, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, Hubei, China.,Department of Hubei Province Engineering Research Center in Buffalo Breeding and Products, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, Hubei, China.,College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, Hubei, China
| | - Xiang Li
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, Hubei, China.,National Center for International Research on Animal Genetics, Breeding and reproduction, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, Hubei, China.,Department of Hubei Province Engineering Research Center in Buffalo Breeding and Products, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, Hubei, China.,College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, Hubei, China
| | - Changjiu He
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, Hubei, China.,National Center for International Research on Animal Genetics, Breeding and reproduction, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, Hubei, China.,Department of Hubei Province Engineering Research Center in Buffalo Breeding and Products, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, Hubei, China.,College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, Hubei, China
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48
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Bassil R, Casper RF, Meriano J, Smith R, Haas J, Mehta C, Orvieto R, Zilberberg E. Can Oocyte Diameter Predict Embryo Quality? Reprod Sci 2020; 28:904-908. [PMID: 32876908 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-020-00306-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2020] [Accepted: 08/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
With the recent increased utilization of oocyte vitrification for the purpose of fertility preservation, information regarding the future fertility potential of the frozen oocytes is mandatory. Nowadays, there is a relative lack of data about prediction of assisted reproductive technique (ART) success relying on the retrieved oocytes. In the present study, we therefore aimed to investigate whether oocyte diameter might predict the quality of the developing embryo. A retrospective, single-center cohort study. Oocytes retrieved following controlled ovarian hyperstimulation cycles during 2016 and incubated in a time-lapse incubator system were analyzed. Oocytes were grouped by mean oocyte diameter (MOD) and incubated for 5 days before the final morphological evaluation done by an expert embryologist. A total of 471 cycles which yielded 3355 metaphase II oocytes were included in the analysis. Embryos developed from oocytes with MOD close to the average (Average 1SD < MOD < Average + 1SD) had increased good-quality blastulation rates compared with embryos that developed from very small or very large oocytes. Oocytes with MOD between 105.96 and 118.69 μm have better probability of becoming top-quality D5 blastocysts (17.1-17.4% grade 1 embryos). There is a correlation between oocyte's MOD and the embryo quality at day 5. The oocytes with near average MOD have a better chance to develop to a good-quality embryo. Therefore, the study suggests that MOD might serve as a predictor for embryo grading at day 5.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rawad Bassil
- TRIO Fertility Partners, Division of Reproductive Sciences, University of Toronto, 655 Bay St 11th floor, Toronto, ON, M5G 2K4, Canada
| | - Robert F Casper
- TRIO Fertility Partners, Division of Reproductive Sciences, University of Toronto, 655 Bay St 11th floor, Toronto, ON, M5G 2K4, Canada
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Jim Meriano
- TRIO Fertility Partners, Division of Reproductive Sciences, University of Toronto, 655 Bay St 11th floor, Toronto, ON, M5G 2K4, Canada
| | - Ramsey Smith
- TRIO Fertility Partners, Division of Reproductive Sciences, University of Toronto, 655 Bay St 11th floor, Toronto, ON, M5G 2K4, Canada
| | - Jigal Haas
- TRIO Fertility Partners, Division of Reproductive Sciences, University of Toronto, 655 Bay St 11th floor, Toronto, ON, M5G 2K4, Canada
- Infertility and IVF Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Tel Aviv University, Tel Hashomer, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Chaula Mehta
- TRIO Fertility Partners, Division of Reproductive Sciences, University of Toronto, 655 Bay St 11th floor, Toronto, ON, M5G 2K4, Canada
| | - Raoul Orvieto
- Infertility and IVF Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Tel Aviv University, Tel Hashomer, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Eran Zilberberg
- TRIO Fertility Partners, Division of Reproductive Sciences, University of Toronto, 655 Bay St 11th floor, Toronto, ON, M5G 2K4, Canada.
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49
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Penfold MJ, Schulman ML, Clift S, du Plessis L, Thompson PN, Hartman MJ. Distribution of uterine histological changes in aged captive cheetahs (Acinonyx jubatus). Zoo Biol 2020; 39:325-333. [PMID: 32730659 DOI: 10.1002/zoo.21554] [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: 01/03/2020] [Revised: 03/17/2020] [Accepted: 06/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The histological effect on the felid uterus of sterilization, via ovariectomy or salpingectomy, is currently unknown. To investigate the association of ovariectomy or salpingectomy with uterine health, it is first necessary to establish if changes are distributed evenly throughout the uterus. Both laparoscopic ovariectomy and salpingectomy with concurrent sampling of the tip of the uterine horn are possible in the cheetah. Currently accepted practice for histopathological screening of the uterus utilizes four biopsy samples. It is not known whether this method accurately reflects the status of the entire uterus. In this study we histologically examined the uteri of six older cheetahs (one 7-year-old and five 10-10.5-year-old animals) via 21 tissue samples (three samples from seven different anatomical regions) per cheetah to determine overall uterine health. Although no defined lesions were detected, mild endometrial gland dilation, assumed to be of no functional consequence, was observed in multiple samples. The odds of observing this dilation was lowest in the uterine body and progressively increased in a cranial direction, being significantly higher at the tip of the uterine horns (OR = 11.5; 95% CI, 2.0-65.1; p = 0.006). This supported the reliability of sampling the tip of the uterine horn to screen for endometrial gland dilation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miles J Penfold
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort, South Africa
| | - Martin L Schulman
- Section of Reproduction, Department of Production Animal Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort, South Africa
| | - Sarah Clift
- Section of Pathology, Department of Paraclinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort, South Africa
| | | | - Peter N Thompson
- Section of Epidemiology, Department of Production Animal Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort, South Africa.,Centre for Veterinary Wildlife Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort, South Africa
| | - Marthinus J Hartman
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort, South Africa
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50
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Gut microbial metabolism of dietary fibre protects against high energy feeding induced ovarian follicular atresia in a pig model. Br J Nutr 2020; 125:38-49. [PMID: 32600501 DOI: 10.1017/s0007114520002378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
To investigate the effects of dietary fibre on follicular atresia in pigs fed a high-fat diet, we fed thirty-two prepubescent gilts a basal diet (CON) or a CON diet supplemented with 300 g/d dietary fibre (fibre), 240 g/d soya oil (SO) or both (fibre + SO). At the 19th day of the 4th oestrus cycle, gilts fed the SO diet showed 112 % more atretic follicles and greater expression of the apoptotic markers, Bax and caspase-3, and these effects were reversed by the fibre diet. The abundance of SCFA-producing microbes was decreased by the SO diet, but this effect was reversed by fibre treatment. Concentrations of serotonin and melatonin in the serum and follicular fluid were increased by the fibre diet. Overall, dietary fibre protected against high fat feeding-induced follicular atresia at least partly via gut microbiota-related serotonin-melatonin synthesis. These results provide insight into preventing negative effects on fertility in humans consuming a high-energy diet.
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