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Szymanska M, Shrestha K, Girsh E, Harlev A, Eisenberg I, Imbar T, Meidan R. Reduced Endothelin-2 and Hypoxic Signaling Pathways in Granulosa-Lutein Cells of PCOS Women. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22158216. [PMID: 34360981 PMCID: PMC8347025 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22158216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Revised: 07/25/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Granulosa-lutein cells (GLCs) from PCOS women display reduced HIF-1α and EDN2 levels, suggesting their role in PCOS etiology. Here, we investigated the mechanisms involved in aberrant EDN2 expression in PCOS, and its association with HIF-1α. Various HIF-1α-dependent factors were studied in GLCs from PCOS and compared to normally ovulating women. MicroRNA-210 (miR-210), its target genes (SDHD and GPD1L), and HIF-1α-responsive genes (EDN2 and VEGFA) differed in GLCs from PCOS, compared with those of healthy women. Levels of miR-210—designated hypoxiamiR—and EDN2 were reduced in the PCOS GLCs; concomitantly, GPD1L and SDHD levels were elevated. Cultured GLCs retained low EDN2 expression and had low HIF-1α levels, providing evidence for a disrupted hypoxic response in the PCOS GLCs. However, VEGFA expression was elevated in these cells. Next, miR-210 levels were manipulated. miR-210-mimic stimulated EDN2 twice as much as the miR-NC-transfected cells, whereas miR-210-inhibitor diminished EDN2, emphasizing the importance of hypoxiamiR for EDN2 induction. Intriguingly, VEGFA transcripts were reduced by both miR-210-mimic and -inhibitor, demonstrating that EDN2 and VEGFA are distinctly regulated. Disrupted hypoxic response in the GLCs of periovulatory follicles in PCOS women may play a role in ovulation failure, and in the reduced fertility prevalent in this syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Szymanska
- Department of Animal Sciences, The Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot 7610001, Israel; (M.S.); (K.S.)
- Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research of the Polish Academy of Sciences, Tuwima 10, 10-748 Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Ketan Shrestha
- Department of Animal Sciences, The Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot 7610001, Israel; (M.S.); (K.S.)
- UK Medical Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
| | - Eliezer Girsh
- Fertility and IVF Unit, Barzilai University Medical Center, Ashkelon 7830604, Israel; (E.G.); (A.H.)
| | - Avi Harlev
- Fertility and IVF Unit, Barzilai University Medical Center, Ashkelon 7830604, Israel; (E.G.); (A.H.)
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva 8410501, Israel
| | - Iris Eisenberg
- The Magda and Richard Hoffman Center for Human Placenta Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem 91240, Israel;
| | - Tal Imbar
- The Magda and Richard Hoffman Center for Human Placenta Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem 91240, Israel;
- Hadassah Ein Kerem Medical Center, Fertility Preservation Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 9112102, Israel
- Correspondence: (T.I.); (R.M.)
| | - Rina Meidan
- Department of Animal Sciences, The Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot 7610001, Israel; (M.S.); (K.S.)
- Correspondence: (T.I.); (R.M.)
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Lee SH. Human Adipose-Derived Stem Cells' Paracrine Factors in Conditioned Medium Can Enhance Porcine Oocyte Maturation and Subsequent Embryo Development. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22020579. [PMID: 33430095 PMCID: PMC7826973 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22020579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Revised: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 12/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
An essential requirement for the success of in vitro maturation (IVM) of the oocyte is to provide an optimal microenvironment similar to in vivo conditions. Recently, somatic cell-based coculture or supplementation of a conditioned medium during IVM has been performed to obtain better quality of oocytes, because they mimic the in vivo reproductive tract by secreting paracrine factors. In this study, human adipose-derived stem cells (ASC) and their conditioned medium (ASC-CM) were applied to IVM of porcine oocytes to evaluate the effectiveness of ASC on oocyte development and subsequent embryo development. In results, both ASC and ASC-CM positively influence on oocyte maturation and embryo development by regulating growth factor receptors (VEGF, FGFR, and IGFR), apoptosis (BCL2), cumulus expansion (PTGS2, HAS2, and TNFAIP6), and oocyte maturation-related genes (GDF9 and BMP15). In particular, the fluorescence intensity of GDF9 and BMP15 was markedly upregulated in the oocytes from the ASC-CM group. Furthermore, significantly high levels of growth factors/cytokine including VEGF, bFGF, IGF-1, IL-10, and EGF were observed in ASC-CM. Additionally, the ASC-CM showed active scavenging activity by reducing the ROS production in a culture medium. Consequently, for the first time, this study demonstrated the effect of human ASC-CM on porcine oocyte development and the alteration of mRNA transcript levels in cumulus–oocyte complexes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seok Hee Lee
- Department of Theriogenology and Biotechnology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea; ; Tel.: +1-4154760932
- Center for Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
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Chen C, Ge X, Zhao Y, Wang D, Ling L, Zheng S, Ding K, Wang J, Sun L. Molecular Alterations in Metastatic Ovarian Cancer From Gastrointestinal Cancer. Front Oncol 2020; 10:605349. [PMID: 33363035 PMCID: PMC7758447 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.605349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Reports indicate that most metastatic ovarian cancer (MOC) originates from gastrointestinal cancer (GIC). Notably, GICs metastasize to the ovary frequently via 3 main routes including hematogenous spread, lymphogenous spread, and transcoelomic spread. Nonetheless, the mechanism of the progression remains unknown, and only a handful of literature exists on the molecular alteration implicated in MOC from GIC. This work collected existing evidence and literature on the vital molecules of the metastatic pathway and systematically analyzed them geared toward exploring the mechanism of the metastatic pathway of MOC. Further, this review described dominating molecular alteration in the metastatic process from cancer cells detaching away from lesions to arrive at the ovary, including factors for regulating signaling pathways in epithelial-interstitial transformation, invading, and surviving in the circulatory system or abdominal cavity. We interrogated the basis of the ovary as a distant metastatic site. This article provides new insights into the metastatic pathway and generates novel therapeutic targets for effective treatment and satisfactory outcomes in GIC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Chen
- Department of Colorectal Surgery and Oncology, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, Ministry of Education, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoxu Ge
- Department of Colorectal Surgery and Oncology, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, Ministry of Education, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Department of Cancer Institute, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yamei Zhao
- Department of Colorectal Surgery and Oncology, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, Ministry of Education, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Da Wang
- Department of Colorectal Surgery and Oncology, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, Ministry of Education, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Limian Ling
- Department of Colorectal Surgery and Oncology, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, Ministry of Education, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shu Zheng
- Department of Colorectal Surgery and Oncology, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, Ministry of Education, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Kefeng Ding
- Department of Colorectal Surgery and Oncology, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, Ministry of Education, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jian Wang
- Department of Colorectal Surgery and Oncology, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, Ministry of Education, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lifeng Sun
- Department of Colorectal Surgery and Oncology, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, Ministry of Education, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
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Newly Identified Regulators of Ovarian Folliculogenesis and Ovulation. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21124565. [PMID: 32604954 PMCID: PMC7349727 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21124565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2020] [Revised: 06/19/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Each follicle represents the basic functional unit of the ovary. From its very initial stage of development, the follicle consists of an oocyte surrounded by somatic cells. The oocyte grows and matures to become fertilizable and the somatic cells proliferate and differentiate into the major suppliers of steroid sex hormones as well as generators of other local regulators. The process by which a follicle forms, proceeds through several growing stages, develops to eventually release the mature oocyte, and turns into a corpus luteum (CL) is known as “folliculogenesis”. The task of this review is to define the different stages of folliculogenesis culminating at ovulation and CL formation, and to summarize the most recent information regarding the newly identified factors that regulate the specific stages of this highly intricated process. This information comprises of either novel regulators involved in ovarian biology, such as Ube2i, Phoenixin/GPR73, C1QTNF, and α-SNAP, or recently identified members of signaling pathways previously reported in this context, namely PKB/Akt, HIPPO, and Notch.
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Serum Follicle-Stimulating Hormone Levels Are Associated with Cardiometabolic Risk Factors in Post-Menopausal Korean Women. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9041161. [PMID: 32325717 PMCID: PMC7230188 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9041161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2020] [Revised: 04/10/2020] [Accepted: 04/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Menopause compounds many cardiometabolic risk factors through endogenous estrogen withdrawal. This study aimed to find the association between serum follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels and cardiometabolic risk factors in post-menopausal Korean women. A total of 608 post-menopausal women from eight randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trials on menopause during the year 2012–2019 were analyzed. Cardiometabolic risk factors such as body mass index, waist circumference, systolic blood pressure, fasting glucose, triglycerides (TG), high density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C), and TG/HDL-C ratio were significantly improved as the FSH quartiles increased. Metabolic syndrome (MetS) and the number of components of MetS decreased as FSH quartiles increased. In regression analysis, FSH level was negatively associated with cardiometabolic risk factors including body mass index, body weight, waist circumference, fasting glucose and TG, while it was positively associated with HDL-C. The odds ratio of MetS in the first quartile of FSH was 2.682 compared with that in the fourth quartile of FSH in a logistic regression model. Serum FSH levels had a negative correlation with cardiometabolic risk factors in post-menopausal Korean women, suggesting that a low FSH can be a predictor for cardiovascular disease in post-menopausal women.
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Albishtue AA, Yimer N, Zakaria MZA, Haron AW, Babji AS, Abubakar AA, Baiee FH, Almhanna HK, Almhanawi BH. The role of edible bird's nest and mechanism of averting lead acetate toxicity effect on rat uterus. Vet World 2019; 12:1013-1021. [PMID: 31528026 PMCID: PMC6702562 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2019.1013-1021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2019] [Accepted: 05/29/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim This study aimed to evaluate the protective effect of edible bird's nest (EBN) supplement on the uteri of rats exposed to lead acetate (LA) toxicity. Materials and Methods Five treatment groups were established as follows: Group 1 (C), which was given distilled water; Group 2 (T0), which was administered with LA (10 mg/kg body weight [BW]); and Groups 3 (T1), 4 (T2), and 5 (T3), which were given LA (10 mg/kg BW) plus graded concentrations of 30, 60, and 120 mg/kg BW of EBN, respectively. Rats were euthanized at week 5 to collect blood for superoxide dismutase (SOD) assay, and uterus for histomorphological study and expression analyses of epidermal growth factor (EGF), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA). Results Results revealed that LA causes destruction of uterine lining cells and necrosis of uterine glands of exposed rats without EBN supplement while the degree of damage decreased among EBN treated groups; T3 showed the highest ameliorating effect against LA toxicity, as well as an increased number of uterine glands. Increased levels of SOD were also achieved in EBN supplemented groups than the controls. Results of immunohistochemistry showed significantly higher expressions of EGF, VEGF, and PCNA levels (p<0.05) in T3 compared to other treatments. EBN maintained upregulation of antioxidant - reactive oxygen species balance. Conclusion The findings showed that EBN could ameliorate the detrimental effects of LA toxicity on the uterus possibly by enhancing enzymatic antioxidant (SOD) activity as well as expressions of EGF, VEGF, and PCNA with cell proliferation roles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdulla A Albishtue
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University Putra Malaysia, 43400 Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia.,Department of Anatomy and Histology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Kufa, Najaf, Iraq
| | - Nurhusien Yimer
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University Putra Malaysia, 43400 Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Md Zuki A Zakaria
- Department of Veterinary Preclinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University Putra Malaysia, 43400 Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Abd Wahid Haron
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University Putra Malaysia, 43400 Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Abd Salam Babji
- Innovation Centre for Confectionary Technology (MANIS), School of Chemical Sciences and Food Technology, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600 Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Adamu A Abubakar
- Department of Companion Animal Medicine and Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University Putra Malaysia, 43400 Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia.,Department of Veterinary Surgery and Radiology, Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, Nigeria
| | - Falah H Baiee
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University Putra Malaysia, 43400 Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia.,Department of Anatomy and Histology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Kufa, Najaf, Iraq
| | - Hazem Kareem Almhanna
- Department of Anatomy and Histology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Kufa, Najaf, Iraq
| | - Bahaa H Almhanawi
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University Putra Malaysia, 43400 Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
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Takae S, Suzuki N. Current state and future possibilities of ovarian tissue transplantation. Reprod Med Biol 2019; 18:217-224. [PMID: 31312099 PMCID: PMC6613018 DOI: 10.1002/rmb2.12268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2018] [Revised: 02/25/2019] [Accepted: 03/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND As a result of recent developments in cancer treatment, cancer survivorship and survivors' quality of life have been emphasized. Although ovarian tissue cryopreservation (OTC) is an experimental technique, it would be the sole technique for fertility preservation treatment for girls with malignant disease. Indeed, OTC requires ovarian tissue transplantation (OTT) for conception. As for OTC, there is room to investigate OTT. The present review focused on the current state and progress of OTT. METHOD The literature regarding OTT, which is currently under development, was reviewed. MAIN FINDINGS To improve the outcome of OTT, both efficacy and safety are important. Good surgical technique and the optimal site are important surgical factors, with orthotopic transplantation increasing. Treatment of growth factors, gonadotropins, antioxidants, apoptosis suppression factors, and cell therapy may improve the efficacy of OTT by inducing neo-angiogenesis and preventing damage. Artificial ovaries, complete in vitro primordial follicle culture technique, and non-invasive ovarian imaging techniques, such as optical coherence tomography, to select the best ovarian tissue are future possibilities. CONCLUSION Improving neo-angiogenesis and preventing damage with optimization, as well as investigation of future techniques, may bring us to the next stage of a fertility preservation strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seido Takae
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologySt. Marianna University School of MedicineKawasaki CityJapan
| | - Nao Suzuki
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologySt. Marianna University School of MedicineKawasaki CityJapan
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Dashti S, Aflatoonian A, Tabibnejad N. Comparison of Oocyte Maturation Trigger Using Follicle Stimulating Hormone Plus Human Chorionic Gonadotropin versus hCG Alone in Assisted Reproduction Technology Cycles. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF FERTILITY & STERILITY 2019; 13:102-107. [PMID: 31037919 PMCID: PMC6500079 DOI: 10.22074/ijfs.2019.5701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2018] [Accepted: 12/02/2018] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Background The goal of this study was to investigate oocyte maturation, fertilization and pregnancy rates among
infertile women, by concomitant follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) administration at the time of human chorionic
gonadotropin (hCG) trigger, compared to hCG trigger alone. Materials and Methods In this prospective randomized controlled trial, 109 infertile women between the ages of
20 and 40 years, received gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonist and fresh embryo transfer. Following
the procedure, the subjects were randomly divided into two groups on the oocyte-triggering day. In the experimental
group, final oocyte maturation was achieved by 5000 IU hCG plus 450 IU FSH. In the control group, however, oocyte
triggering was performed by 5000 IU hCG, only. The primary outcome was clinical pregnancy and the secondary out-
comes included oocyte recovery rate, oocyte maturity rate, fertilization proportion rate, fertilization rate, implantation
rate and chemical pregnancy rate. Results Fifty-four women were appointed to the group with the FSH bolus injection at the time of hCG trigger and
55 women were assigned to the hCG alone group. Women in the FSH group had a significantly higher metaphase II
(MII) oocyte (7.17 ± 3.50 vs. 5.87 ± 3.19), 2 pronuclear embryos (2PNs) (5.44 ± 3.20 vs. 3.74 ± 2.30) and total em-
bryos (4.57 ± 2.82 vs. 3.29 ± 2.13) compared to hCG alone group, respectively. Furthermore, fertilization rate (0.75
± 0.19 vs. 0.68 ± 0.25), implantation rate (14.2 vs. 8.5%) as well as clinical (27.9 vs. 15.9%) and chemical (32.6 vs.
20.5%) pregnancy rates were higher in the FSH group, but no statistically significant difference was found (P>0.05). Conclusion Combination of FSH and hCG for oocyte triggering improves oocyte maturity and fertilization propor-
tion rates without increasing the chance of implantation, chemical and clinical pregnancy rates (Registration number:
IRCT2017082724512N5).
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Affiliation(s)
- Saeedeh Dashti
- Research and Clinical Center for Infertility, Yazd Reproductive Sciences Institute, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Abbas Aflatoonian
- Research and Clinical Center for Infertility, Yazd Reproductive Sciences Institute, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran. Electronic Address:
| | - Nasim Tabibnejad
- Research and Clinical Center for Infertility, Yazd Reproductive Sciences Institute, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
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Kim SO, Trau HA, Duffy DM. Vascular endothelial growth factors C and D may promote angiogenesis in the primate ovulatory follicle. Biol Reprod 2018; 96:389-400. [PMID: 28203718 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.116.144733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2016] [Revised: 11/07/2016] [Accepted: 11/30/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Angiogenesis in the ovary occurs rapidly as the ovarian follicle transforms into a mature corpus luteum. Granulosa cells produce vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) in response to the ovulatory gonadotropin surge. VEGFA is established as a key mediator of angiogenesis in the primate ovulatory follicle. To determine if additional VEGF family members may be involved in angiogenesis within the ovulatory follicle, cynomolgus monkeys (Macaca fascicularis) received gonadotropins to stimulate multiple follicular development, and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) substituted for the luteinizing hormone surge to initiate ovulatory events. Granulosa cells of monkey ovulatory follicles contained mRNA and protein for VEGFC and VEGFD before and after hCG administration. VEGFC and VEGFD were detected in monkey follicular fluid and granulosa cell-conditioned culture media, suggesting that granulosa cells of ovulatory follicles secrete both VEGFC and VEGFD. To determine if these VEGF family members can stimulate angiogenic events, monkey ovarian microvascular endothelial cells (mOMECs) were obtained from monkey ovulatory follicles and treated in vitro with VEGFC and VEGFD. Angiogenic events are mediated via three VEGF receptors; mOMECs express all three VEGF receptors in vivo and in vitro. Exposure of mOMECs to VEGFC increased phosphorylation of AKT, while VEGFD treatment increased phosphorylation of both AKT and CREB. VEGFC and VEGFD increased mOMEC migration and the formation of endothelial cell sprouts in vitro. However, only VEGFD increased mOMEC proliferation. These findings suggest that VEGFC and VEGFD may work in conjunction with VEGFA to stimulate early events in angiogenesis of the primate ovulatory follicle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soon Ok Kim
- National Creative Research Initiative Center for Multi-Dimensional Directed Nanoscale Assembly, Department of Materials Science and Engineering, KAIST, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Heidi A Trau
- Department of Genetics, Paul D. Coverdell Center, University of Georgia, 500 DW Brooks Drive, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Diane M Duffy
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Eastern Virginia Medical School; PO Box 1980, Norfolk, Virginia, USA
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Bender, HR, Trau, HA, Duffy DM. Placental Growth Factor Is Required for Ovulation, Luteinization, and Angiogenesis in Primate Ovulatory Follicles. Endocrinology 2018; 159:710-722. [PMID: 29095972 PMCID: PMC5774250 DOI: 10.1210/en.2017-00739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2017] [Accepted: 10/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Placental growth factor (PGF) is member of the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) family of angiogenesis regulators. VEGFA is an established regulator of ovulation and formation of the corpus luteum. To determine whether PGF also mediates aspects of ovulation and luteinization, macaques received gonadotropins to stimulate multiple follicular development. Ovarian biopsies and whole ovaries were collected before (0 hours) and up to 36 hours after human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) administration to span the ovulatory interval. PGF and VEGFA were expressed by both granulosa cells and theca cells. In follicular fluid, PGF and VEGFA levels were lowest before hCG. PGF levels remained low until 36 hours after hCG administration, when PGF increased sevenfold to reach peak levels. Follicular fluid VEGFA increased threefold to reach peak levels at 12 hours after hCG, then dropped to intermediate levels. To explore the roles of PGF and VEGFA in ovulation, luteinization, and follicular angiogenesis in vivo, antibodies were injected into the follicular fluid of naturally developed monkey follicles; ovariectomy was performed 48 hours after hCG, with ovulation expected about 40 hours after hCG. Intrafollicular injection of control immunoglobulin G resulted in no retained oocytes, follicle rupture, and structural luteinization, including granulosa cell hypertrophy and capillary formation in the granulosa cell layer. PGF antibody injection resulted in oocyte retention, abnormal rupture, and incomplete luteinization, with limited and disorganized angiogenesis. Injection of a VEGFA antibody resulted in oocyte retention and very limited follicle rupture or structural luteinization. These studies demonstrate that PGF, in addition to VEGFA, is required for ovulation, luteinization, and follicular angiogenesis in primates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah R. Bender,
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia 23501
| | - Heidi A. Trau,
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia 23501
| | - Diane M. Duffy
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia 23501
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11
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Albishtue AA, Yimer N, Zakaria MZA, Haron AW, Yusoff R, Assi MA, Almhanawi BH. Edible bird's nest impact on rats' uterine histomorphology, expressions of genes of growth factors and proliferating cell nuclear antigen, and oxidative stress level. Vet World 2018; 11:71-79. [PMID: 29479160 PMCID: PMC5813515 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2018.71-79] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2017] [Accepted: 12/15/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of edible bird’s nest (EBN) supplementation on the uteri of rats based on analyses of the morphological and histomorphometric changes, and expressions of epidermal growth factor (EGF) and its receptor (REGF) genes, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), and steroid receptors. Materials and Methods: Twenty-four: Sprague Dawley rats were equally distributed into the following four groups: G1 (control), G2, G3, and G4 represented the groups treated with EBN at graded concentrations of 0, 30, 60, and 120 mg/kg body weight (BW) per day for 8 weeks, respectively. During the experimental period, the BW of each rat was recorded weekly. At the proestrus stage of estrous cycle, blood samples were collected from the hearts of anesthetized rats that were later sacrificed. The uteri were removed for histological and immunohistochemical analyses. Results: The EBN-treated groups showed an increase in the weights and lengths of uteri as compared to the control. Results showed that relative to G1 and G2, G3 and G4 exhibited proliferation in their uterine luminal and glandular epithelia and uterine glands, and up-regulated expressions of EGF, REGF, VEGF, PCNA, and progesterone receptor, and estrogen receptor in their uteri. The EBN increased the antioxidant (AO) and total AO capacities and reduced the oxidative stress (OS) levels in non-pregnant rats. Conclusion: Findings of this study revealed that EBN promotes proliferation of the uterine structures as evidenced by the upregulation of the expressions of steroid receptors, EGF, REGF, VEGF, and PCNA in the uterus and increased in the plasma concentrations of AO and reduced levels of OS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdulla A Albishtue
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia.,Department of Anatomy and Histology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Kufa, Najaf, Iraq
| | - Nurhusien Yimer
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Md Zuki A Zakaria
- Department of Veterinary Preclinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Abd Wahid Haron
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Rosnina Yusoff
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Mohammed A Assi
- Department of Community Health, College of Health and Medical Techniques, Al-Furat Al-Awsat Technical University, Iraq
| | - Bahaa H Almhanawi
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
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12
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Nishimura R, Okuda K, Gunji Y, Khalid AM, Yamano Y, Yamashita Y, Hishinuma M. BNIP3 expression in bovine follicle and corpus luteum. J Vet Med Sci 2017; 80:368-374. [PMID: 29269703 PMCID: PMC5836779 DOI: 10.1292/jvms.17-0267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BNIP3 (BCL2/adenovirus E1B nineteen kilodalton interacting protein-3), a member of the
BCL2 family, is activated under hypoxic conditions and induces apoptosis or mitochondrial
autophagy for adapting cells to hypoxia. The physiological roles of BNIP3 in the mammalian
ovary are still unclear. In order to understand the role of BNIP3 in the bovine ovary, we
examined its mRNA and protein expressions of BNIP3 in follicular granulosa cells and
corpus luteum (CL). BNIP3 mRNA and protein expressions in granulosa cells from large
follicles (>10 mm) at the follicular stage were much higher than those in small
follicles (2–8 mm). BNIP3 mRNA and protein expressions in the CL peaked at the early
luteal stage. In bovine granulosa cells cultured for 6 hr under hypoxia (3% O2)
and normoxia (20% O2), BNIP3 mRNA expression was higher under hypoxia. These
results of the present study suggest that BNIP3 has some roles in luteal formation in the
bovine ovary, and that the highly expressed BNIP3 in the granulosa cells from large
follicles at the follicular stage is related to the roles of BNIP3 in the luteal
formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryo Nishimura
- Laboratory of Theriogenology, Joint Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Agriculture, Tottori University, 4-101 Koyama-cho Minami, Tottori 680-8553, Japan
| | - Kiyoshi Okuda
- Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology, Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University, Okayama 700-8530, Japan
| | - Yosuke Gunji
- Laboratory of Theriogenology, Joint Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Agriculture, Tottori University, 4-101 Koyama-cho Minami, Tottori 680-8553, Japan.,United Graduate School of Veterinary Science, Yamaguchi University, Yoshida 1677-1, Yamaguchi 753-8511, Japan
| | - Ahmed Magzoub Khalid
- United Graduate School of Veterinary Science, Yamaguchi University, Yoshida 1677-1, Yamaguchi 753-8511, Japan.,Laboratory of Veterinary Biochemistry, Joint Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Agriculture, Tottori University, 4-101 Koyama-cho Minami, Tottori 680-8553, Japan.,Department of Genetics and Animal Breeding, Faculty of Animal Production, University of Khartoum, Shambat 13314, Sudan
| | - Yoshiaki Yamano
- Laboratory of Veterinary Biochemistry, Joint Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Agriculture, Tottori University, 4-101 Koyama-cho Minami, Tottori 680-8553, Japan
| | - Yasuhisa Yamashita
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, Prefectural University of Hiroshima, 562 Nanatuka-cho, Shobara, Hiroshima 727-0023, Japan
| | - Mitsugu Hishinuma
- Laboratory of Theriogenology, Joint Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Agriculture, Tottori University, 4-101 Koyama-cho Minami, Tottori 680-8553, Japan
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13
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Bishop CV, Lee DM, Slayden OD, Li X. Intravenous neutralization of vascular endothelial growth factor reduces vascular function/permeability of the ovary and prevents development of OHSS-like symptoms in rhesus monkeys. J Ovarian Res 2017; 10:41. [PMID: 28683759 PMCID: PMC5501270 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-017-0340-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2017] [Accepted: 06/20/2017] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) is a disorder associated with elevated serum VEGFA following chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) exposure in controlled ovarian stimulation (COS) cycles in women. In this study, we tested the effect of intravenous VEGFA neutralization on OHSS-like symptoms and vascular function in rhesus macaques during COS cycles. Methods Monkeys (n = 8) were treated with 3 COS protocols and assigned randomly to groups as follows: 1) COS alone (Control,n = 5); 2) COS + VEGF mAb Avastin 19 ± 5 h before hCG (Avastin pre-hCG; n = 6); 3) COS + Avastin 3–4 days post-hCG (Avastin post-hCG; n = 4); 4) COS + Simulated Early Pregnancy (SEPn = 3); or 5) COS + SEP + Avastin (SEP + Avastinn = 3). Follicles were aspirated 36 h post-hCG, fluid was collected from one follicle for analysis of steroid and vascular hormone content. Remaining follicles were aspirated, and luteinized granulosa cells (LGCs) cultured for 24 h. Ovarian/uterine vascular flow (VF) and blood volume (BV) were analyzed by contrast enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) before hCG bolus and 6–8 days post-hCG bolus/time of peak SEP response. Ovarian permeability to albumin was analyzed by Dynamic Contrast Enhanced-MRI (DCE-MRI) post-hCG. Results Abdominal fluid was present in 4/5 Control, 2/6 Avastin pre-hCG, and 3/4 Avastin post-hCG females. Neutralization of VEGFA before hCG reduced ovarian VF, BV, and permeability to albumin (P < 0.05), while only ovarian VF and permeability were reduced in Avastin-post hCG group (P < 0.05). There was no effect of Avastin on ovarian vascular function during COS + SEP. VEGF levels in follicular fluid were reduced 78-fold by Avastin pre-hCG, and LGCs exposed to Avastin in vivo also released 4-fold less VEGF into culture media (P < 0.05). Culture medium of LGCs exposed to VEGFA neutralization in vivo had lower levels of P4 and ANGPT1, and an increased ratio of ANGPT2/1 (P < 0.05). Uterine VF was reduced by SEP + Avastin in the basalis/junctional zone (P < 0.05). Conclusions Avastin treatment before hCG prevents the development of symptoms associated with ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome. In vitro data suggest neutralization of VEGFA alters expression of other vascular factors typically induced by hCG in the luteinizing follicle. Neutralization of VEGFA action alters the vascular function of the basalis zone of the uterus during simulated early pregnancy, indicating a potential effect on embryo implantation. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13048-017-0340-5) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- C V Bishop
- Division of Reproductive & Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Beaverton, OR, 97006, USA.
| | - D M Lee
- Obstetrics & Gynecology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, 97239, USA
| | - O D Slayden
- Division of Reproductive & Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Beaverton, OR, 97006, USA.,Obstetrics & Gynecology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, 97239, USA
| | - X Li
- Advanced Imaging Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, 97239, USA
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Trau HA, Brännström M, Curry TE, Duffy DM. Prostaglandin E2 and vascular endothelial growth factor A mediate angiogenesis of human ovarian follicular endothelial cells. Hum Reprod 2016; 31:436-44. [PMID: 26740577 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dev320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2015] [Accepted: 11/26/2015] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Which receptors for prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) mediate angiogenesis in the human follicle around the time of ovulation? SUMMARY ANSWER PGE2 and VEGFA act via multiple PGE2 receptors (PTGERs) and VEGF receptors (VEGFRs) to play complementary roles in follicular angiogenesis. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Production of PGE2 and VEGFA by the follicle are prerequisites for ovulation. PGE2 is an emerging regulator of angiogenesis and has not been examined in the context of the human ovulatory follicle. VEGFA is an established regulator of follicular angiogenesis. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Ovarian biopsies containing the ovulatory follicle were obtained from 11 women of reproductive age (30-45 years) undergoing surgery for laparoscopic sterilization. In some cases, women received hCG to substitute for the ovulatory LH surge before ovarian biopsy. In addition, aspirates from four women of reproductive age (18-31 years) undergoing gonadotrophin stimulation for oocyte donation were obtained for isolation of human ovarian microvascular endothelial cells (hOMECs). PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Ovarian biopsies were utilized for immunocytochemical detection of von Willebrand factor to identify endothelial cells. hOMECs were cultured with PGE2, PTGER receptor selective agonists, VEGFA, or VEGFR selective agonists. hOMECs were assessed for proliferation by Ki67 immunocytochemistry. hOMEC migration was determined by counting cells which migrated through a porous membrane in vitro. Sprout formation was quantified by determining sprout number and length from photographs take after culture of hOMECs in a 3-dimensional matrix. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Endothelial cells were not observed within the granulosa cell layer of human ovulatory follicles prior to an ovulatory dose of hCG and were first seen amongst granulosa cells 18-34 h after hCG. In vitro, PGE2 enhanced migration and sprout formation but did not alter hOMEC proliferation. Agonists selective for each PTGER increased migration with no change in proliferation. PTGER1 and PTGER2 agonists increased the number of sprouts, while only PTGER1 affected sprout length. VEGFA increased hOMEC proliferation, migration, and formation of structures resembling capillary sprouts. Signaling through VEGFR1 promoted hOMEC migration, proliferation, and the formation of few, long endothelial cell sprouts, while VEGFR2 stimulation promoted hOMEC migration and the formation of many, short sprouts. All effects of treatments in vitro were considered significant at P < 0.05. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION While primary cultures of hOMECs respond to PGE2 and VEGFA differently than other cultured endothelial cells, hOMECs may not respond to PGE2 and VEGFA in vivo as they do in vitro. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Agonists and antagonists selective for PTGER1, PTGER2, VEGFR1, or VEGFR2 may have therapeutic value to promote or prevent ovulation in women. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS This research was supported by grant funding from the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institutes of Child Health and Human Development (HD071875 to D.M.D., T.E.C., M.B.). The authors have no conflicts of interest to disclose.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heidi A Trau
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA 23501, USA
| | - Mats Brännström
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Thomas E Curry
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Diane M Duffy
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA 23501, USA
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Xu J, McGee WK, Bishop CV, Park BS, Cameron JL, Zelinski MB, Stouffer RL. Exposure of female macaques to Western-style diet with or without chronic T in vivo alters secondary follicle function during encapsulated 3-dimensional culture. Endocrinology 2015; 156:1133-42. [PMID: 25545382 PMCID: PMC4330314 DOI: 10.1210/en.2014-1711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Increased adiposity and hyperandrogenemia alter reproductive parameters in both animal models and women, but their effects on preantral follicles in the ovary remain unknown. We recently reported that Western-style diet (WSD) consumption over 1 year, with or without chronic exposure to elevated circulating T, increased the body fat percentage, elicited insulin resistance, suppressed estradiol and progesterone production, as well as altered the numbers, size, and dynamics of antral follicles in the ovary during the menstrual cycle in female macaques. Therefore, experiments were designed to compare the WSD and WSD+T effects to age-matched controls on the survival, growth, and function of isolated secondary follicles during 5 weeks of encapsulated 3-dimensional culture. Follicle survival significantly declined in the WSD and WSD+T groups compared with the control (CTRL) group. Although media progesterone levels were comparable among groups, androstenedione and estradiol levels were markedly reduced in the WSD and WSD+T groups compared with the CTRL group at week 5. Anti-Müllerian hormone levels peaked at week 3 and were lower in the WSD+T group compared with the WSD or CTRL group. Vascular endothelial growth factor levels also decreased at week 5 in the WSD+T group compared with the WSD or CTRL group. After human chorionic gonadotropin exposure, only antral follicles developed from the CTRL group yielded metaphase II oocytes. Thus, WSD with or without T exposure affects the cohort of secondary follicles in vivo, suppressing their subsequent survival, production of steroid hormones and local factors, as well as oocyte maturation in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Xu
- Division of Reproductive & Developmental Sciences (J.X., W.K.M., C.V.B., M.B.Z., R.L.S.), Oregon National Primate Research Center, Beaverton, Oregon 97006; Department of Behavioral Neuroscience (W.K.M.), Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine (B.S.P.), Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon 97239; Department of Psychiatry (J.L.C.), University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15260; and Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology (M.B.Z., R.L.S.), Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon 97239
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Stilley JA, Guan R, Duffy DM, Segaloff DL. Signaling through FSH receptors on human umbilical vein endothelial cells promotes angiogenesis. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2014; 99:E813-20. [PMID: 24527712 PMCID: PMC4010687 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2013-3186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT The FSH receptor (FSHR) is traditionally thought to play a role in female reproductive physiology solely within the context of ovarian FSHR. However, FSHR is also expressed in endothelial cells of the placental vasculature and human umbilical cord vessels, suggesting additional facets of female reproduction regulated by extragonadal FSHR. OBJECTIVE We sought to determine the functional role of FSHR on human umbilical cord endothelial cells (HUVECs), hypothesizing that activation of the FSHR would stimulate angiogenesis. DESIGN The ability of FSH to stimulate several angiogenic processes in HUVECs was determined. SETTING This was a laboratory-based study using commercially prepared HUVECs. RESULTS Tube formation, wound healing, cell migration, cell proliferation, nitric oxide production, and cell survival were stimulated in response to FSH. Quantitative comparisons between HUVECs incubated with maximally stimulatory concentrations of FSH vs vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), a well-characterized angiogenic factor, revealed that FSH is as efficacious as VEGF in promoting angiogenic processes. FSH did not provoke increased secretion of VEGF by HUVECs, suggesting the direct stimulation of angiogenic processes by FSH in endothelial cells. In contrast to gonadal cells, the FSHR on HUVECs did not mediate an FSH-stimulated increase in cAMP. However, increased phosphorylation of AKT in response to FSH was observed, suggesting that FSH stimulation of HUVEC FSHR stimulates the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. CONCLUSIONS Our studies reveal a novel role for FSHR in female reproductive physiology. Its ability to promote angiogenesis in placental endothelial cells suggests that the FSHR may have an influential role in pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie A Stilley
- Department of Molecular Biophysics and Physiology (J.A.S., R.G., D.L.S.), The University of Iowa Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, Iowa 52242; and Department of Physiological Sciences (D.M.D.), Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia 23508
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17
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Fisher TE, Molskness TA, Villeda A, Zelinski MB, Stouffer RL, Xu J. Vascular endothelial growth factor and angiopoietin production by primate follicles during culture is a function of growth rate, gonadotrophin exposure and oxygen milieu. Hum Reprod 2013; 28:3263-70. [PMID: 24045779 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/det337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION What is the time course of production of vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGF-A), angiopoietin (ANGPT)-1 and ANGPT-2 by primate follicles during encapsulated three-dimensional culture, and what conditions affect their production? SUMMARY ANSWER Primate follicles produce VEGF-A and ANGPT-2 in vitro, particularly after developing to the antral stage, with VEGF production influenced by FSH concentration and O(2) tension. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Folliculogenesis, i.e. the development of primordial follicles into mature, antral follicles, requires the creation of a vascular network in the follicle wall via a process called angiogenesis. Angiogenic factors including VEGFs and ANGPTs have documented roles in angiogenesis. However, direct studies on the production and regulation of angiogenic factors by individual, growing follicles are limited. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Ovaries (n = 9 pairs) were obtained from rhesus macaques during the early follicular phase of the menstrual cycle (cycle days 1-4). Secondary (125-225 µm) follicles were isolated mechanically, encapsulated into alginate (0.25% w/v) and cultured for 40 days. MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Individual follicles were cultured in a 5 or 20% O(2) environment in alpha minimum essential medium supplemented with recombinant human (h) FSH. Half of the follicles had recombinant hLH added to the media from Days 30 to 40. Follicle diameters were measured weekly. Follicles were categorized at Week 5 as no-grow (NG; <250 μm in diameter), slow-grow (SG; 251-499 μm) and fast-grow (FG; >500 μm). VEGF-A, ANGPT-1 and -2 concentrations in media were measured by ELISA. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE VEGF concentrations were low throughout the culture for NG follicles. SG and FG follicles had detectable VEGF concentrations at Week 2, which continued to rise throughout culture. VEGF concentrations were distinct (P < 0.05) among all three follicle categories during Weeks 4 and 5. VEGF concentrations were higher (P < 0.05) in SG follicles in the presence of high/mid-dose FSH at 5% O(2). In contrast, there were no dose-dependent differences in VEGF production for FG follicles based on FSH concentrations or O(2) tension. At Week 5, follicles that produced metaphase II oocytes, following exposure to an ovulatory hCG dose, secreted higher concentrations of VEGF than those containing germinal vesicle-intact oocytes. Media concentrations of ANGPT-1 were low throughout culture for all three follicle categories. ANGPT-2 concentrations were low throughout culture for NG follicles. In contrast, ANGPT-2 concentrations of SG and FG follicles continued to rise from Weeks 1 to 4. During Weeks 2-4, ANGPT-2 concentrations in FG follicles were significantly higher than those of SG and NG follicles (P < 0.05). LIMITATION, REASONS FOR CAUTION This study reports VEGF-A, ANGPT-1 and -2 production by in vitro-developed individual primate (macaque) follicles, that is limited to the interval from the secondary to small antral stage. After VEGF and ANGPT-1 assays, the limited remaining samples did not allow assessment of the independent effects of gonadotrophin and O(2) on the ANGPT-2 production by cultured follicles. Findings await translation to human follicles. WIDER IMPLICATION OF THE FINDINGS The above findings provide novel information on the process of primate follicle maturation. We hypothesize that a symbiotic relationship between elevated concentrations of ANGPT-2 and VEGF allows FG antral follicles to excel in follicle maturation, e.g. by promoting its vascularization. Elevated ANGPT-2 may also offer possible insight into future oocyte quality as early as Week 2, compared with Week 4 for VEGF and follicle size. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) The study was funded by the following grants: NIH U54 RR024347/HD058294/PL1-EB008542 (Oncofertility Consortium), NIH U54-HD018185 (SCCPIR), NIH ORWH/NICHD 2K12HD043488 (BIRCWH), NIH FIC TW/HD-00668, ONPRC 8P51OD011092. There are no conflicts of interest to declare.
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Affiliation(s)
- T E Fisher
- Division of Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, 505 NW 185th Avenue, Beaverton, OR 97006, USA
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Evaluation effects of allopurinol and FSH on reduction of ischemia-reperfusion injury and on preservation of follicle after heterotopic auto-transplantation of ovarian tissue in mouse. Reprod Med Biol 2013; 13:29-35. [PMID: 29662369 DOI: 10.1007/s12522-013-0160-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2012] [Accepted: 06/24/2013] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Allopurinol and FSH injection are applied to reduce ischemia-reperfusion injury and to increase survival rate for ovarian follicles after ovarian heterotopic autotransplantation in mice. Methods Ovarian tissues from 6-week-old mice were grafted into back muscle then collected after 3 weeks. A total of five groups were included in this experiment as follows: control group (n = 5), sham-operated group (n = 5), allopurinol treatment group (AP) (n = 5), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) treatment group (n = 5), as well as, allopurinol and FSH treatment group (APF) (n = 5). We investigated survival, number and development of follicles, vaginal cytology along with plasma malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration in grafted ovary. Results Total follicles count significantly increased in APF group compared with other treatment groups (p < 0.05). MDA concentration significantly decreased in AP group and APF treatment group compared with sham-operated group. In AP group, vaginal smears showed presence of cornified epithelial cells three-five day after surgery. Conclusions We demonstrated that allopurinol, as a XO inhibitor, plays an important role in order to decrease ischemia injury and to increase survival rate for follicles. Also, FSH, as a folliculogenesis and angiogenesis factor, increases development of follicles. It seems that allopurinol can cause re-establishing hypothalamus-pituitary axis and finally can restore estrous cycle earlier than for the sham operated group, so it explains the increasing survival rate for follicles.
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19
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Xu J, Lawson MS, Yeoman RR, Molskness TA, Ting AY, Stouffer RL, Zelinski MB. Fibrin promotes development and function of macaque primary follicles during encapsulated three-dimensional culture. Hum Reprod 2013; 28:2187-200. [PMID: 23608357 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/det093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Does fibrin introduced into the extracellular matrix affect the growth and maturation of individual primate follicles during encapsulated three-dimensional (3D) culture? SUMMARY ANSWER While not altering follicle survival, fibrin-alginate (FIBRIN) improves macaque primary, but not secondary, follicle development during encapsulated 3D culture in terms of growth, steroidogenesis, anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH)/vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) production and oocyte maturation. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Efforts to grow non-human primate ovarian follicles from the secondary to the antral stage during encapsulated 3D culture have been successful. However, the growth and maturation of primary follicles in vitro has not been reported in primates, especially in chemically defined conditions. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION In vitro follicle maturation was investigated using the rhesus macaque (Macaca mulatta). Ovaries (n = 7 pairs) were obtained during the early follicular phase of the menstrual cycle (cycle day 1-4). Primary (80-120 µm diameter) and secondary (125-225 µm diameter) follicles were isolated mechanically, randomly assigned to experimental groups, encapsulated into alginate (0.25% w/v) or FIBRIN (25 mg/ml fibrinogen-0.25% alginate) and cultured for 13 and 5 weeks, respectively. MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Individual follicles were cultured in alpha minimum essential medium supplemented with FSH. Follicle survival and growth were assessed by microscopy. Follicles that reached the antral stage were treated with recombinant hCG. Metaphase II (MII) oocytes were inseminated via ICSI. Follicle morphology was evaluated by hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining. Immunohistochemistry was performed for cytochrome P450 family 17 subfamily A polypeptide 1 (CYP17A1) and 19 subfamily A polypeptide 1 (CYP19A1). Culture medium was analyzed for estradiol (E2) and progesterone by chemiluminescence, androstenedione (A4) by radioimmunoassay, as well as anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE A total of 105 primary and 133 secondary follicles were collected. The presence of fibrin in the alginate matrix had no effect on either primary or secondary follicle survival. Growing primary and secondary follicles formed an antrum at Weeks 9 and 3, respectively. The percentage of growing follicles was higher (P < 0.05) for primary follicles cultured in FIBRIN than alginate at Week 13. The diameters were larger for the growing secondary follicles cultured in alginate than FIBRIN at Week 5 (P < 0.05). H&E staining revealed the typical morphology for small antral follicles. CPY17A1 immunostaining was detected in theca cells, while CYP19A1 was observed in granulosa cells. E2 increased (P < 0.05) during antrum formation in growing follicles at Week 9 for primary and Week 3 for secondary follicles. AMH levels in medium from growing primary follicles increased (P < 0.05) after Week 4 with peak levels at Weeks 9-11. AMH increased (P < 0.05) in growing secondary follicles at Weeks 3-5. VEGF levels in medium were elevated (P < 0.05) in growing primary follicles at Week 9. VEGF increased (P < 0.05) in medium from growing secondary follicles at Weeks 3-5. E2, AMH and VEGF production was higher (P < 0.05) in primary follicle culture with FIBRIN than alginate alone. One primary follicle cultured in FIBRIN (1 of 5 follicles harvested) and a secondary follicle cultured in alginate alone (1 of 15 follicles harvested) yielded an MII oocyte. The fertilized oocyte from primary follicle culture arrested without cell division after fertilization, while the oocyte from secondary follicle culture cleaved and reached the morula stage. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The study reports on in vitro development and function of individual macaque follicles, that is limited to the interval from the primary and secondary stage to the small antral stage. The findings await translation to human ovarian follicles. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS The 3D model for primate follicle development offers a unique opportunity to investigate the growth and regulation of primate primary, as well as secondary follicles, and their enclosed oocytes, as they grow to the antral stage by monitoring and manipulating factors or signaling pathways in vitro. Since primate primary follicles, in addition to secondary follicles, can be cultured to the antral stage to provide mature oocytes, they represent an additional source of pre-antral follicles for in vitro follicle maturation with the potential to provide gametes for assisted reproductive technology as an option for fertility preservation in women, including patients with cancer. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was supported by The Oncofertility Consortium (NIH U54 RR024347-HD058294, PL1-EB008542), NIH U54-HD18185 (Eunice Kennedy Shriver Specialized Cooperative Centers Program in Reproduction and Infertility Research), NIH ORWH/NICHD 2K12HD043488 (BIRCWH), Oregon National Primate Research Center 8P51OD011092. There are no conflicts of interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Xu
- Division of Reproductive & Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, 505 NW 185th Avenue, Beaverton, OR 97006, USA.
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Fahiminiya S, Reynaud K, Labas V, Batard S, Chastant-Maillard S, Gérard N. Steroid hormones content and proteomic analysis of canine follicular fluid during the preovulatory period. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2010; 8:132. [PMID: 21040564 PMCID: PMC2990747 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-8-132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2010] [Accepted: 11/01/2010] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Follicular fluid contains substances involved in follicle activity, cell differentiation and oocyte maturation. Studies of its components may contribute to better understanding of the mechanisms underlying follicular development and oocyte quality. The canine species is characterized by several ovarian activity features that are not extensively described such as preovulatory luteinization, oocyte ovulated at the GV stage (prophase 1) and poly-oocytic follicles. In this study, we examined the hypothesis that the preovulatory LH surge is associated with changes in steroid and protein content of canine follicular fluid prior to ovulation. METHODS Follicular fluid samples were collected from canine ovaries during the preovulatory phase, before (pre-LH; n = 16 bitches) and after (post-LH; n = 16) the LH surge. Blood was simultaneously collected. Steroids were assayed by radioimmunoassay and proteomic analyses were carried out by 2D-PAGE and mass spectrometry. RESULTS The concentrations of 17beta-estradiol and progesterone at the pre-LH stage were 737.2 +/- 43.5 ng/ml and 2630.1 +/- 287.2 ng/ml in follicular fluid vs. 53 +/- 4.1 pg/ml and 3.9 +/- 0.3 ng/ml in plasma, respectively. At that stage, significant positive correlations between follicular size and intra-follicular steroid concentrations were recorded. After the LH peak, the intrafollicular concentration of 17beta-estradiol decreased significantly (48.3 +/- 4.4 ng/ml; p < 0.001), whereas that of progesterone increased (11690.2 +/- 693.6 ng/ml; p < 0.001). Plasmatic concentration of 17beta-estradiol was not modified (49 +/- 9.6 pg/ml) after the LH peak, but that of progesterone significantly increased (9.8 +/- 0.63 ng/ml).Proteomic analysis of canine follicular fluid identified 38 protein spots, corresponding to 21 proteins, some of which are known to play roles in the ovarian physiology. The comparison of 2D-PAGE patterns of follicular fluids from the pre- and post-LH stages demonstrated 3 differentially stained single spot or groups of spots. One of them was identified as complement factor B. A comparison of follicular fluid and plasma protein patterns demonstrated a group of 4 spots that were more concentrated in plasma than in follicular fluid, and a single spot specific to follicular fluid. These proteins were identified as gelsolin and clusterin, respectively. CONCLUSION Our results provide the first demonstration of size-related changes in the steroid concentrations in canine follicular fluid associated with the LH surge. 2D protein mapping allowed identification of several proteins that may play a role in follicle physiology and ovarian activity at the preovulatory stage. This may help in the future to explain and to better understand the species specificities that are described in dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Somayyeh Fahiminiya
- INRA, UMR 6175 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, F-37380 Nouzilly, France
- CNRS, UMR6175 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, F-37380 Nouzilly, France
- Université François Rabelais de Tours, UMR 6175 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, F-37041 Tours, France
- Haras Nationaux, UMR 6175 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, F-37380 Nouzilly, France
| | - Karine Reynaud
- INRA, UMR 1198 Biologie du Développement et Reproduction, F-78350 Jouy en Josas, France
- ENVA, UMR 1198 Biologie du Développement et Reproduction, 7 Avenue du Général de Gaulle, F - 94700 Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - Valérie Labas
- INRA, UMR 6175 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, F-37380 Nouzilly, France
- CNRS, UMR6175 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, F-37380 Nouzilly, France
- Université François Rabelais de Tours, UMR 6175 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, F-37041 Tours, France
- Haras Nationaux, UMR 6175 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, F-37380 Nouzilly, France
- INRA, UMR 6175 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, Plate-forme d'Analyse Intégrative des Biomarqueurs, Laboratoire de Spectrométrie de Masse, F-37380 Nouzilly, France
| | - Séverine Batard
- INRA, UMR 1198 Biologie du Développement et Reproduction, F-78350 Jouy en Josas, France
| | - Sylvie Chastant-Maillard
- INRA, UMR 1198 Biologie du Développement et Reproduction, F-78350 Jouy en Josas, France
- ENVA, UMR 1198 Biologie du Développement et Reproduction, 7 Avenue du Général de Gaulle, F - 94700 Maisons-Alfort, France
- ENVA, Unité de Reproduction, 7 Avenue du Général de Gaulle, F - 94700 Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - Nadine Gérard
- INRA, UMR 6175 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, F-37380 Nouzilly, France
- CNRS, UMR6175 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, F-37380 Nouzilly, France
- Université François Rabelais de Tours, UMR 6175 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, F-37041 Tours, France
- Haras Nationaux, UMR 6175 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, F-37380 Nouzilly, France
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Xu J, Bernuci MP, Lawson MS, Yeoman RR, Fisher TE, Zelinski MB, Stouffer RL. Survival, growth, and maturation of secondary follicles from prepubertal, young, and older adult rhesus monkeys during encapsulated three-dimensional culture: effects of gonadotropins and insulin. Reproduction 2010; 140:685-97. [PMID: 20729335 DOI: 10.1530/rep-10-0284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
A three-dimensional culture system supports the development of primate preantral follicles to the antral stage with appreciable steroid production. This study assessed i) whether in vitro developmental competence of follicles is age dependent, ii) the role of gonadotropins and insulin in supporting folliculogenesis, and iii) anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) production by growing follicles. Ovaries were obtained from prepubertal, young, and older adult rhesus macaques. Secondary follicles were encapsulated into alginate beads and cultured individually for 40 days in media containing 0.05 or 5 μg/ml insulin, with or without recombinant human (rh) FSH (500 mIU/ml). No follicles survived in the culture without rhFSH. In the presence of rhFSH, survival was lower for follicles from older animals, whereas growth, i.e. follicle diameter, was less by day 40 for follicles from prepubertal animals. The surviving follicles were categorized as no-grow (NG; ≤ 250 μm), slow-grow (SG; 250-500 μm), and fast-grow (FG; ≥ 500 μm) according to their diameters. SG follicles cultured with 5 μg/ml insulin produced more ovarian steroids than those cultured with 0.05 μg/ml insulin by week 5. SG and FG follicles produced more AMH and VEGF than the NG, and levels peaked at weeks 2 and 5 respectively. After 100 ng/ml rh chorionic gonadotropin treatment for 34 h, more healthy oocytes were retrieved from young adults whose follicles were cultured with 5 μg/ml insulin. This culture system offers an opportunity to characterize the endocrine and paracrine function of primate follicles that influence follicle growth and oocyte maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Xu
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, 505 Northwest 185th Avenue, Beaverton, Oregon 97006, USA
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22
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Rosen MP, Zamah AM, Shen S, Dobson AT, McCulloch CE, Rinaudo PF, Lamb JD, Cedars MI. The effect of follicular fluid hormones on oocyte recovery after ovarian stimulation: FSH level predicts oocyte recovery. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2009; 7:35. [PMID: 19389255 PMCID: PMC2679036 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-7-35] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2008] [Accepted: 04/23/2009] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ovarian stimulation for assisted reproductive technology (ART) overcomes the physiologic process to develop a single dominant follicle. However, following stimulation, egg recovery rates are not 100%. The objective of this study is to determine if the follicular fluid hormonal environment is associated with oocyte recovery. METHODS This is a prospective study involving patients undergoing ART by standard ovarian stimulation protocols at an urban academic medical center. A total of 143 follicular fluid aspirates were collected from 80 patients. Concentrations of FSH, hCG, estradiol, progesterone, testosterone and prolactin were determined. A multivariable regression analysis was used to investigate the relationship between the follicular fluid hormones and oocyte recovery. RESULTS Intrafollicular FSH was significantly associated with oocyte recovery after adjustment for hCG (Adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 1.21, 95%CI 1.03-1.42). The hCG concentration alone, in the range tested, did not impact the odds of oocyte recovery (AOR = 0.99, 95%CI 0.93-1.07). Estradiol was significantly associated with oocyte recovery (AOR = 0.98, 95% CI 0.96-0.99). After adjustment for progesterone, the strength of association between FSH and oocyte recovery increased (AOR = 1.84, 95%CI 1.45-2.34). CONCLUSION The relationship between FSH and oocyte recovery is significant and appears to work through mechanisms independent of the sex hormones. FSH may be important for the physiologic event of separation of the cumulus-oocyte complex from the follicle wall, thereby influencing oocyte recovery. Current methods for inducing the final stages of oocyte maturation, with hCG administration alone, may not be optimal. Modifications of treatment protocols utilizing additional FSH may enhance oocyte recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitchell P Rosen
- UCSF Medical Center, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, 2356 Sutter Street, 7th Floor, San Francisco, CA 94115, USA
| | - A Musa Zamah
- UCSF Medical Center, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, 2356 Sutter Street, 7th Floor, San Francisco, CA 94115, USA
| | - Shehua Shen
- UCSF Medical Center, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, 2356 Sutter Street, 7th Floor, San Francisco, CA 94115, USA
| | - Anthony T Dobson
- UCSF Medical Center, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, 2356 Sutter Street, 7th Floor, San Francisco, CA 94115, USA
| | - Charles E McCulloch
- UCSF Medical Center, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, 2356 Sutter Street, 7th Floor, San Francisco, CA 94115, USA
| | - Paolo F Rinaudo
- UCSF Medical Center, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, 2356 Sutter Street, 7th Floor, San Francisco, CA 94115, USA
| | - Julie D Lamb
- UCSF Medical Center, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, 2356 Sutter Street, 7th Floor, San Francisco, CA 94115, USA
| | - Marcelle I Cedars
- UCSF Medical Center, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, 2356 Sutter Street, 7th Floor, San Francisco, CA 94115, USA
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Zhao P, De A, Hu Z, Li J, Mulders SM, Sollewijn Gelpke MD, Duan EK, Hsueh AJW. Gonadotropin stimulation of ovarian fractalkine expression and fractalkine augmentation of progesterone biosynthesis by luteinizing granulosa cells. Endocrinology 2008; 149:2782-9. [PMID: 18292196 PMCID: PMC2408816 DOI: 10.1210/en.2007-1662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Recent studies indicated that ovarian functions are regulated by diverse paracrine factors induced by the preovulatory increases in circulating LH. Based on DNA microarray analyses and real-time RT-PCR, we found a major increase in the transcript levels of a chemokine fractalkine after human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) treatment during the preovulatory period in gonadotropin-primed immature mice and rats. Although CX3CR1, the seven-transmembrane receptor for fractalkine, was also found in murine ovaries, its transcripts displayed minimal changes. Using tandem RT-PCR and immunohistochemistry, fractalkine transcripts and proteins were localized in cumulus, mural granulosa, and theca cells as well as the oocytes, whereas CX3CR1 was found in the same cells except the oocyte. Real-time RT-PCR further indicated the hCG induction of fractalkine transcripts in different ovarian compartments, with the highest increases found in granulosa cells. In cultured granulosa cells, treatment with fractalkine augmented hCG stimulation of progesterone but not estradiol and cAMP biosynthesis with concomitant increases in transcript levels for key steroidogenic enzymes (steroidogenic acute regulatory protein, CYP11A, and 3beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase). In cultured preovulatory follicles, treatment with fractalkine also augmented progesterone production stimulated by hCG. Furthermore, treatment with fractalkine augmented the phosphorylation of P38 MAPK in cultured granulosa cells. The present data demonstrated that increases in preovulatory LH/hCG induce the expression of fractalkine to augment the luteinization of preovulatory granulosa cells and suggest the fractalkine/CX3CR1 signaling system plays a potential paracrine/autocrine role in preovulatory follicles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, People's Republic of China
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24
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Abstract
Angiogenesis is associated with follicular development and is regulated independently within each follicle potentially making the functioning of its vasculature critically important in determining its fate. This review examines the various ways in which follicular angiogenesis may be monitored, describes the follicular localisation and changes in pro- and anti-angiogenic factors that may regulate the process and how antagonists may be used to elucidate their physiological role in vivo. Thus, inhibition of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), VEGF receptor-2, vascular endothelial cell cadherin or interference with the angiopoietin system can inhibit follicular development or prevent ovulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamish M Fraser
- MRC Human Reproductive Sciences Unit, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, EH16 4TJ, UK.
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25
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Abstract
The objectives of this study were to explore whether ovarian vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression in mice can be regulated by IL-6 (interleukin-6), angiotensin II, FSH, and hCG; and to test whether the mouse ovarian VEGF expression can result in angiogenesis. The ICR mice were sacrificed, and their ovaries were recovered. Recovered ovaries were treated with IL-6, angiotensin II, FSH, and hCG separately and incubated for 24 hours in alpha-MEM. Expression of mRNA and protein of VEGF were assessed by RT-PCR and immunohistochemistry. The resulting angiogenesis was evaluated through immunohistochemical analysis for CD34. Treatment of mice ovaries with IL-6, FSH, and hCG resulted in a significant increase of VEGF mRNA, and IL-6 was the most potent inducer of VEGF. IL-6 and FSH resulted in increased neovascularization in the follicular phase of mouse ovaries. In contrast, angiotensin II could not increase VEGF expression or neovascularization. We documented an in vitro increase in VEGF expression by IL-6, FSH, and hCG; and reaffirmed that the proliferative response of murine ovarian endothelial cells paralleled an increase of VEGF expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- So-Young Shin
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Eulji University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Ho-Jung Lee
- Department of Pathology, Eulji University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Duck-Sung Ko
- Eulji Life Science Institute, Eulji University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hoi-Chang Lee
- Eulji Life Science Institute, Eulji University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Won Il Park
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Eulji University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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26
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Gruemmer R, Motejlek K, Berghaus D, Weich HA, Neulen J. Regulation of soluble vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (sFlt-1/sVEGFR-1) expression and release in endothelial cells by human follicular fluid and granulosa cells. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2005; 3:57. [PMID: 16248895 PMCID: PMC1276815 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-3-57] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2005] [Accepted: 10/25/2005] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND During the female reproductive cycle, follicular development and corpus luteum formation crucially depend on the fast generation of new blood vessels. The importance of granulosa cells and follicular fluid in controlling this angiogenesis is still not completely understood. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) produced by granulosa cells and secreted into the follicular fluid plays an essential role in this process. On the other hand, soluble VEGF receptor-1 (sFlt-1) produced by endothelial cells acts as a negative modulator for the bioavailability of VEGF. However, the regulation of sFlt-1 production remains to be determined. METHODS We analyzed the influence of human follicular fluid obtained from FSH-stimulated women as well as of human granulosa cell conditioned medium on sFlt-1 production in and release from human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) in vitro. Soluble Flt-1 gene expression was determined by RT-PCR analysis, amount of sFlt-1-protein was quantified by Sandwich-ELISA. RESULTS Human follicular fluid as well as granulosa cell-conditioned medium significantly inhibit the production of sFlt-1 by endothelial cells on a posttranscriptional level. Treatment of cultured granulosa cells with either hCG or FSH had not impact on the production of sFlt-1 inhibiting factors. We further present data suggesting that this as yet unknown sFlt-1 regulating factor secreted by granulosa cells is not heat-sensitive, not steroidal, and it is of low molecular mass (< 1000 Da). CONCLUSION We provide strong support that follicular fluid and granulosa cells control VEGF availability by down regulation of the soluble antagonist sFlt-1 leading to an increase of free, bioactive VEGF for maximal induction of vessel growth in the ovary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruth Gruemmer
- Institute of Anatomy, University Hospital, Essen, Germany
| | - Karin Motejlek
- Clinic of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, RWTH Aachen, Germany
| | - Daniela Berghaus
- Clinic of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, RWTH Aachen, Germany
| | - Herbert A Weich
- Dep. Gene Regulation and Differentiation, GBF Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Joseph Neulen
- Clinic of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, RWTH Aachen, Germany
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27
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Abstract
The corpus luteum (CL) is a site of intense angiogenesis. Within a short period, this is followed either by controlled regression of the microvascular tree in the non-fertile cycle, or maintenance and stabilisation of the new vasculature a conceptual cycle. The molecular regulation of these diverse aspects is examined. The CL provides a unique model system in which to study the cellular and molecular regulation of angiogenesis. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) has been found to have a major role in the CL. By targeting its action at specific stages of the luteal phase in vivo by antagonists, profound inhibitory effects on luteal angiogenesis and function are observed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamish M Fraser
- Medical Research Council Human Reproductive Sciences Unit, Centre for Reproductive Biology, 49 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, EH16 4SB, UK
| | - Christine Wulff
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology of the University of Ulm, Prittwitzstrasse 43, 89075 Ulm, Germany
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