1
|
Kircher BK, Stanley EL, Behringer RR. Anatomy of the female reproductive tract organs of the brown anole (Anolis sagrei). Anat Rec (Hoboken) 2024; 307:395-413. [PMID: 37506227 DOI: 10.1002/ar.25293] [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: 04/23/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023]
Abstract
Female reproduction in squamate reptiles (lizards and snakes) is highly diverse and mode of reproduction, clutch size, and reproductive tract morphology all vary widely across this group of ~11,000 species. Recently, CRISPR genome editing techniques that require manipulation of the female reproductive anatomy have been developed in this group, making a more complete understanding of this anatomy essential. We describe the adult female reproductive anatomy of the model reptile the brown anole (Anolis sagrei). We show that the brown anole female reproductive tract has three distinct anterior-to-posterior regions, the infundibulum, the glandular uterus, and the nonglandular uterus. The infundibulum has a highly ciliated epithelial lip, a region where the epithelium is inverted so that cilia are present on the inside and outside of the tube. The glandular uterus has epithelial ducts that are patent with a lumen as well as acinar structures with a lumen. The nonglandular uterus has a heterogeneous morphology from anterior to posterior, with a highly folded, ciliated epithelium transitioning to a stratified squamous epithelium. This transition is accompanied by a loss of keratin-8 expression and together, these changes are similar to the morphological and gene expression changes that occur in the mammalian cervix. We recommend that description of the nonglandular uterus include the regional sub-specification of a "cervix" and "vagina" as this terminology change more accurately describes the morphology. Our data extend histological studies of reproductive organ morphology in reptiles and expand our understanding of the variation in reproductive system anatomy across squamates and vertebrates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bonnie K Kircher
- Department of Genetics, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Edward L Stanley
- Florida Museum of Natural History, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Richard R Behringer
- Department of Genetics, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Duan G, Liu W, Han H, Li D, Lei Q, Zhou Y, Liu J, Wang J, Du Y, Cao D, Chen F, Li F. Transcriptome and histological analyses on the uterus of freckle egg laying hens. BMC Genomics 2023; 24:738. [PMID: 38049727 PMCID: PMC10696746 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-023-09828-x] [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: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In this study, we explored the characteristics and causes of freckle formation. We collected 15 normal and freckled eggs each for eggshell index testing and hypothesized that the structure and function of the uterus would have a direct effect on freckled egg production given that eggshells are formed in the uterus. To test this hypothesis, we collected uterine tissue from laying hens (418 days of age) that laid normal (Group C, n = 13) and freckled (Group T, n = 16) eggs for 7 consecutive days. RESULTS When we examined the eggshell quality, we found that the L value was significantly lower (P < 0.05) in the freckled site group of freckled eggs compared to the normal egg group during the detection of blunt pole, equator, and sharp pole of the eggshell color. The a-values of the three positions were significantly higher (P < 0.05) in the freckled site group of freckled eggs, and the a-values of the blunt pole were significantly lower (P < 0.05) in the background site group of freckled eggs, compared to the normal egg group. The b-values were significantly higher (P < 0.05) at three locations in the freckled site group of freckled eggs compared to the normal egg group. During the detection of eggshell thickness, the blunt pole was significantly higher (P < 0.05) in the freckled egg site group of freckled eggs compared to the normal egg group, and there was no significant difference between the other groups (P > 0.05). There was no significant difference (P > 0.05) between the transverse and longitudinal diameters of the eggs in each group.We then performed histopathology and transcriptome analyses on the collected tissue. When compared with group C, uterine junctional epithelial cells in group T showed significant defects and cilia loss, and epithelial tissue was poorly intact. From transcriptomics, genes that met (|log2FC|) ≥ 1 and P < 0.05 criteria were screened as differentially expressed genes (DEGs). We identified a total of 136 DEGs, with 101 up- and 35 down-regulated genes from our RNA-seq data. DEGs identified by enrichment analyses, which were potentially associated with freckled egg production were: IFI6, CCL19, AvBD10, AvBD11, S100A12, POMC, and UCN3. Gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses showed that pathways were associated with immunoreaction and stress stimulation, e.g., complement activation, interleukin-1 cell reactions, viral responses, cell reactions stimulated by corticotropin releasing hormone, steroid hormone mediated signaling pathways, staphylococcal infections, B cell receptor signaling pathways, and natural killer cell mediated cytotoxicity. CONCLUSIONS From these data, freckled areas deepen freckled eggshell color, but background areas are not affected. At the same time,we reasoned that freckle eggs may result from abnormal immune responses and impaired uterine functions induced by stress. Therefore, the uterus of laying hens in a state of stress and abnormal immune function can cause the appearance of freckled eggs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guochao Duan
- Poultry Institute, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Jinan, 250100, China
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Wei Liu
- Poultry Institute, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Jinan, 250100, China
- Poultry Breeding Engineering Technology Center of Shandong Province, Jinan, 250100, China
| | - Haixia Han
- Poultry Institute, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Jinan, 250100, China
- Poultry Breeding Engineering Technology Center of Shandong Province, Jinan, 250100, China
| | - Dapeng Li
- Poultry Institute, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Jinan, 250100, China
- Poultry Breeding Engineering Technology Center of Shandong Province, Jinan, 250100, China
| | - Qiuxia Lei
- Poultry Institute, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Jinan, 250100, China
- Poultry Breeding Engineering Technology Center of Shandong Province, Jinan, 250100, China
| | - Yan Zhou
- Poultry Institute, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Jinan, 250100, China
- Poultry Breeding Engineering Technology Center of Shandong Province, Jinan, 250100, China
| | - Jie Liu
- Poultry Institute, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Jinan, 250100, China
- Poultry Breeding Engineering Technology Center of Shandong Province, Jinan, 250100, China
| | - Jie Wang
- Poultry Institute, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Jinan, 250100, China
- Poultry Breeding Engineering Technology Center of Shandong Province, Jinan, 250100, China
| | - Yuanjun Du
- Poultry Institute, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Jinan, 250100, China
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Dingguo Cao
- Poultry Institute, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Jinan, 250100, China
- Poultry Breeding Engineering Technology Center of Shandong Province, Jinan, 250100, China
| | - Fu Chen
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Fuwei Li
- Poultry Institute, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Jinan, 250100, China.
- Poultry Breeding Engineering Technology Center of Shandong Province, Jinan, 250100, China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Li Y, Martin TE, Hancock JM, Li R, Viswanathan S, Lydon JP, Zheng Y, Ye X. Visualization of preimplantation uterine fluid absorption in mice using Alexa Fluor™ 488 Hydrazide†. Biol Reprod 2023; 108:204-217. [PMID: 36308434 PMCID: PMC9930399 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac198] [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: 07/28/2022] [Revised: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Uterine fluid plays important roles in supporting early pregnancy events and its timely absorption is critical for embryo implantation. In mice, its volume is maximum on day 0.5 post-coitum (D0.5) and approaches minimum upon embryo attachment ~D4.0. Its secretion and absorption in ovariectomized rodents were shown to be promoted by estrogen and progesterone (P4), respectively. The temporal mechanisms in preimplantation uterine fluid absorption remain to be elucidated. We have established an approach using intraluminally injected Alexa Fluor™ 488 Hydrazide (AH) in preimplantation control (RhoAf/f) and P4-deficient RhoAf/fPgrCre/+ mice. In control mice, bulk entry (seen as smeared cellular staining) via uterine luminal epithelium (LE) decreases from D0.5 to D3.5. In P4-deficient RhoAf/fPgrCre/+ mice, bulk entry on D0.5 and D3.5 is impaired. Exogenous P4 treatment on D1.5 and D2.5 increases bulk entry in D3.5 P4-deficient RhoAf/fPgrCre/+ LE, while progesterone receptor (PR) antagonist RU486 treatment on D1.5 and D2.5 diminishes bulk entry in D3.5 control LE. The abundance of autofluorescent apical fine dots, presumptively endocytic vesicles to reflect endocytosis, in the LE cells is generally increased from D0.5 to D3.5 but its regulation by exogenous P4 or RU486 is not obvious under our experimental setting. In the glandular epithelium (GE), bulk entry is rarely observed and green cellular dots do not show any consistent differences among all the investigated conditions. This study demonstrates the dominant role of LE but not GE, the temporal mechanisms of bulk entry and endocytosis in the LE, and the inhibitory effects of P4-deficiency and RU486 on bulk entry in the LE in preimplantation uterine fluid absorption.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuehuan Li
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
| | - Taylor Elijah Martin
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
- Interdisciplinary Toxicology Program, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
| | - Jonathan Matthew Hancock
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
- Interdisciplinary Toxicology Program, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
| | - Rong Li
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
- Interdisciplinary Toxicology Program, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
| | - Suvitha Viswanathan
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
| | - John P Lydon
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Yi Zheng
- Division of Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology, Children’s Hospital Research Foundation, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Xiaoqin Ye
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
- Interdisciplinary Toxicology Program, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Liao CM, Tan GH, You MF, Li JZ, Wu L, Qin YY, Zhang YY. Genetic variants in SCNN1B and AHCYL1 are associated with eggshell quality in Chinese domestic laying ducks ( Anas platyrhynchos). Br Poult Sci 2021; 63:454-465. [PMID: 34923880 DOI: 10.1080/00071668.2021.2019678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
1. The objective of this study was to investigate the evolution of SCNN1B and AHCYL1 proteins among 10 domestic and mammalian animals, to uncover the expression patterns of SCNN1B and AHCYL1 genes in ducks, identify the genetic variants of the SCNN1B and AHCYL1 genes and analyse their effects on eggshell quality.2. Expression profiles of the SCNN1B and AHCYL1 genes in Sansui female ducks were determined using real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR to identify SNPs. The duck SCNN1B and AHCYL1 genes were amplified to identify SNPs. A total of 502 Sansui female ducks were genotyped by sequencing, and the associations between the mRNA expression/SNP genotypes and six eggshell quality indices were analysed using PASW Statistics 18.0.3. The results showed that the SCNN1B and AHCYL1 proteins are highly conserved in different mammalian or domestic animals, especially the AHCYL1 protein. The SCNN1B and AHCYL1 genes were widely expressed in different tissues of male and female ducks, and expression level in the uterus was greater than in other tissues. The expression of SCNN1B and AHCYL1 during oviposition cycle indicated that expression levels were related to the eggshell mineralisation stage.4. The mRNA expression levels of uterine SCNN1B and AHCYL1 genes were positively correlated with eggshell strength (ESS), percentage (ESP) and weight (ESW) (P<0.05), respectively. Ten novel SNPs in SCNN1B and AHCYL1 genes from Chinese domestic laying ducks were identified through PCR amplicon sequencing.5. Genetic association analysis indicated g.797509 C > T, g.797573 C > T and g.797834 C > T in SCNN1B gene and g.169244 T > A, g.169265 T > C and g.175311T > C in AHCYL1 gene had a significant effect on eggshell quality. Correlation analysis between the SNP genotype and SCNN1B and AHCYL1 genes expression in the uterus showed that the genotypes of g.797509 C>T, g.797573 C>T, g.797834 C>T, g.169244 T>A and g.175311T>C sites affected the expression of SCNN1B and AHCYL1 genes in utero (P<0.05).6. The study indicated SCNN1B and AHCYL1 as candidate genes to improve eggshell traits in ducks.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chao-Mei Liao
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction in the Plateau Mountainous Region, Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science, Guizhou University, People's Republic of China
| | - Guang-Hui Tan
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction in the Plateau Mountainous Region, Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science, Guizhou University, People's Republic of China
| | - Ming-Fang You
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction in the Plateau Mountainous Region, Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science, Guizhou University, People's Republic of China
| | - Jie-Zhang Li
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction in the Plateau Mountainous Region, Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science, Guizhou University, People's Republic of China
| | - Lei Wu
- China Guizhou Anshun Lihua Animal Husbandry Co., Ltd
| | - Yuan-Yu Qin
- Agriculture and Rural Bureau of zhijin county, Guizhou Province, China
| | - Yi-Yu Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction in the Plateau Mountainous Region, Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science, Guizhou University, People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Khogali MK, Wen K, Jauregui D, Liu L, Zhao M, Gong D, Geng T. Uterine structure and function contributes to the formation of the sandpaper-shelled eggs in laying hens. Anim Reprod Sci 2021; 232:106826. [PMID: 34403835 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2021.106826] [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: 10/29/2020] [Revised: 08/07/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The avian eggshell is formed in the uterus, and eggshell quality usually decreases markedly in the late phase of hen laying cycles. Production of sandpaper-shelled eggs (SE), a category of eggs with relatively less eggshell quality, causes a great economic loss. Underlying mechanisms of SE formation, however, remain unclear. For the present study, it was hypothesized that alterations in uterine structure and function contribute to SE formation. To test this hypothesis, uterine samples were collected from 450-day-old hens that produced normal eggs (NE) and SE (based on 2-week-long assessments, n = 10) for histomorphological and transcriptome analyses. Compared with the NE group, uteri of the SE group were apparently atrophied. Furthermore, a total of 211 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified in the uteri of hens of the two groups. These DEGs were clustered into 145 gene ontology terms (FDR < 0.05) and enriched in 12 KEGG pathways (P < 0.10), which are primarily related to organ morphogenesis and development, cell growth, differentiation and death, ion transport, endocrine and cell communication, immune response, and corticotropin-releasing hormones. In particular, corticotropin may be an important factor in SE formation because of effects on ion transport. Furthermore, as indicated by lesser abundances of relevant mRNA transcripts, the lesser expression of genes related to ion transport and matrix proteins also contribute to SE production because of effects on eggshell formation. In conclusion, results from this study revealed there were structural and functional differences in the hen uterus in NE and SE groups.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mawahib K Khogali
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009, Jiangsu Province, PR China; Department of Poultry Production, Faculty of Animal Production, University of Khartoum, Khartoum, 13314, Sudan
| | - Kang Wen
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009, Jiangsu Province, PR China
| | - Diego Jauregui
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009, Jiangsu Province, PR China
| | - Long Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009, Jiangsu Province, PR China
| | - Minmeng Zhao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009, Jiangsu Province, PR China
| | - Daoqing Gong
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009, Jiangsu Province, PR China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of the Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009, Jiangsu Province, PR China.
| | - Tuoyu Geng
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009, Jiangsu Province, PR China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of the Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009, Jiangsu Province, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Tan GH, Li JZ, Zhang YY, You MF, Liao CM, Zhang YG. Association of PRKCA expression and polymorphisms with layer duck eggshell quality. Br Poult Sci 2020; 62:8-16. [PMID: 32893664 DOI: 10.1080/00071668.2020.1817329] [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] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
1. Eggshell quality is important for the poultry industry. Calcium is deposited during eggshell formation, and protein kinase C alpha (PRKCA) is involved in transmembrane transport of calcium ions in cells. However, the biological function of PRKCA in poultry is still not understood. Therefore, the aim of this study was to explore the association of mRNA expression and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of the PRKCA gene with eggshell quality in laying ducks. 2. The mRNA expression and SNPs of the PRKCA gene were detected by real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR (qRT-PCR) and sequencing of PCR products in 45-week-old female Sansui ducks, which is a high production layer duck breed in China. The association of mRNA expression and SNPs in the PRKCA gene with layer duck eggshell traits was analysed using SPSS (v18.0) software. 3. The results demonstrated that PRKCA mRNA was widely expressed in all examined tissues, and expression was highest in kidney and lowest in the gizzard. Furthermore, the PRKCA mRNA level in uterus was significantly positively correlated with eggshell strength and eggshell weight (P < 0.05). Three novel SNPs, the synonymous mutations of g.9571770 T > C in exon 5, g.9583222 C > T and g.9583227 G > A in exon 7, were found in the PRKCA gene, giving four haplotypes and 10 diplotypes, which affected the mRNA secondary structure and free energy. The g.9583222 C > T and g.9583227 G > A mutations were significantly associated with eggshell strength (P < 0.05). Diplotype H1H1 was advantageous for increasing the strength and thickness of an eggshell. 4. In conclusion, the study showed that the mRNA transcription and genetic variation in the PRKCA gene could significantly affect the strength of duck eggshell and that the PRKCA gene is an important candidate gene for improving eggshell quality in poultry.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- G H Tan
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction in the Plateau Mountainous Region, Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science, Guizhou University , Guiyang, Guizhou, People's Republic of China
| | - J Z Li
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction in the Plateau Mountainous Region, Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science, Guizhou University , Guiyang, Guizhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Y Y Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction in the Plateau Mountainous Region, Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science, Guizhou University , Guiyang, Guizhou, People's Republic of China
| | - M F You
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction in the Plateau Mountainous Region, Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science, Guizhou University , Guiyang, Guizhou, People's Republic of China
| | - C M Liao
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction in the Plateau Mountainous Region, Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science, Guizhou University , Guiyang, Guizhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Y G Zhang
- Tiantang Town Agricultural Technology Management Station , Tongren City, People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Park JA, Sohn SH. The Influence of Hen Aging on Eggshell Ultrastructure and Shell Mineral Components. Korean J Food Sci Anim Resour 2018; 38:1080-1091. [PMID: 30479513 PMCID: PMC6238045 DOI: 10.5851/kosfa.2018.e41] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2018] [Revised: 09/10/2018] [Accepted: 09/10/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The eggshell, which is a complex and highly ordered structure, is very important factor for food safety and egg marketing. This study investigated the changes in eggshell structure and shell components in relationship to hen age. For this study, we examined the histological change of the endometrium of the 30-, 60-, and 72-wk-old commercial layers, and analyzed the ultrastructure and ionic composition of their eggshells. The results showed that histological deformation, fibrosis, atrophy and elimination of micro-villi in the uterus endometrium were found through microscopic observation that was associated with increasing hen age. Concentration of blood-ion components such as Ca2+, Na+, K+, and Cl- ions did not change with age. Along with the results from the ultrastructure analysis of the eggshell, the palisade layer ratio and the density of mammillary knobs were significantly decreased in older hens. In addition, the type B mammillary knobs were frequently observed with increasing hen age. In the mineral element assay from the eggshell, Ca2+, S2-, and Co2+ significantly decreased with increasing hen age, whereas Na+, K+, and V2+ significantly increased. Therefore, the damages of endometrial tissue inhibit the processes of ion transmission and the crystallization of eggshell formation, resulting in a large and non-uniform mammillary knob formation. This means the conditions of endometrial cells affect the formation of the eggshell structure. In conclusion, hen aging causes the weakness of the eggshell and degrades the eggshell quality.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Sea-Hwan Sohn
- Department of Animal Science and Biotechnology, Gyeongnam National
University of Science and Technology, Jinju 52725,
Korea
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Integrating transcriptome and genome re-sequencing data to identify key genes and mutations affecting chicken eggshell qualities. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0125890. [PMID: 25974068 PMCID: PMC4431873 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0125890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2014] [Accepted: 03/24/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Eggshell damages lead to economic losses in the egg production industry and are a threat to human health. We examined 49-wk-old Rhode Island White hens (Gallus gallus) that laid eggs having shells with significantly different strengths and thicknesses. We used HiSeq 2000 (Illumina) sequencing to characterize the chicken transcriptome and whole genome to identify the key genes and genetic mutations associated with eggshell calcification. We identified a total of 14,234 genes expressed in the chicken uterus, representing 89% of all annotated chicken genes. A total of 889 differentially expressed genes were identified by comparing low eggshell strength (LES) and normal eggshell strength (NES) genomes. The DEGs are enriched in calcification-related processes, including calcium ion transport and calcium signaling pathways as reveled by gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis. Some important matrix proteins, such as OC-116, LTF and SPP1, were also expressed differentially between two groups. A total of 3,671,919 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and 508,035 Indels were detected in protein coding genes by whole-genome re-sequencing, including 1775 non-synonymous variations and 19 frame-shift Indels in DEGs. SNPs and Indels found in this study could be further investigated for eggshell traits. This is the first report to integrate the transcriptome and genome re-sequencing to target the genetic variations which decreased the eggshell qualities. These findings further advance our understanding of eggshell calcification in the chicken uterus.
Collapse
|
9
|
Alsop TA, McLeod BJ, Butt AG. Variations in epithelial Na(+) transport and epithelial sodium channel localisation in the vaginal cul-de-sac of the brushtail possum, Trichosurus vulpecula, during the oestrous cycle. Reprod Fertil Dev 2014; 28:328-36. [PMID: 25056576 DOI: 10.1071/rd13277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2013] [Accepted: 05/27/2014] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The fluid in the vaginal cul-de-sac of the brushtail possum, Trichosurus vulpecula, is copious at ovulation when it may be involved in sperm transport or maturation, but is rapidly reabsorbed following ovulation. We have used the Ussing short-circuit current (Isc) technique and measurements of transcript and protein expression of the epithelial Na(+) channel (ENaC) to determine if variations in electrogenic Na(+) transport are associated with this fluid absorption. Spontaneous Isc (<20µAcm(-2) during anoestrus, 60-80µAcm(-2) in cycling animals) was inhibited by serosal ouabain. Mucosal amiloride (10µmolL(-1)), an inhibitor of ENaC, had little effect on follicular Isc but reduced luteal Isc by ~35%. This amiloride-sensitive Isc was dependent on mucosal Na(+) and the half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50)-amiloride (0.95μmolL(-1)) was consistent with ENaC-mediated Na(+) absorption. Results from polymerase chain reaction with reverse transcription (RT-PCR) indicate that αENaC mRNA is expressed in anoestrous, follicular and luteal phases. However, in follicular animals αENaC immunoreactivity in epithelial cells was distributed throughout the cytoplasm, whereas immunoreactivity was restricted to the apical pole of cells from luteal animals. These data suggest that increased Na(+) absorption contributes to fluid absorption during the luteal phase and is regulated by insertion of ENaC into the apical membrane of cul-de-sac epithelial cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- T-A Alsop
- Department of Physiology, Otago School of Medical Sciences, University of Otago, PO Box 56, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand
| | - B J McLeod
- AgResearch Invermay, Private Bag 50034 Mosgiel 9053, New Zealand
| | - A G Butt
- Department of Physiology, Otago School of Medical Sciences, University of Otago, PO Box 56, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Fan YF, Hou ZC, Yi GQ, Xu GY, Yang N. The sodium channel gene family is specifically expressed in hen uterus and associated with eggshell quality traits. BMC Genet 2013; 14:90. [PMID: 24059973 PMCID: PMC3851161 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2156-14-90] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2013] [Accepted: 09/10/2013] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Eggshell quality is important for the poultry industry. During eggshell formation a mass of inorganic minerals is deposited. The Sodium Channel (SCNN1) gene family plays an essential role in cation transportation. The objective of this study was to investigate the pattern of expression of members of the SCNN1 gene family, their variation and their effects on eggshell quality. RESULT The highest expression of SCNN1a, SCNN1b, and SCNN1g genes were in the active uterus during eggshell mineralization, while SCNN1d showed its highest expression level in the quiescent uterus (no egg present). Nineteen candidate SNPs from the four genes were genotyped in a population of 338 White Leghorn layers. Association analysis between SNPs (haplotypes/diplotypes) and eggshell traits was performed. Among seven significant SNPs, five SNPs were associated with eggshell strength, eggshell thickness, eggshell percentage or/and egg weight, while the other two SNPs within SCNN1d were only associated with eggshell percentage. These SNPs had a 0.25-6.99% contribution to phenotypic variance, depending on the trait. In haplotype analysis, SCNN1b and SCNN1d were associated with egg weight. The SCNN1b and SCNN1g were significantly associated with eggshell weight while only SCNN1g explained 2.04% of phenotypic variance. All the alleles of the members of SCNN1 gene family were associated with eggshell percentage and eggshell thickness, and others members had an association with eggshell strength except for SCNN1a. The contribution of different haplotypes of the SCNN1 gene family to eggshell phenotypic variance ranged from 0.09% to 5.74%. CONCLUSIONS Our study indicated that the SCNN1 gene family showed tissue expression specificity and was significantly associated with eggshell traits in chicken. This study provides evidence that genetic variation in members of the sodium channel can influence eggshell quality.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Feng Fan
- National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding and MOA Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
11
|
Jonchère V, Brionne A, Gautron J, Nys Y. Identification of uterine ion transporters for mineralisation precursors of the avian eggshell. BMC PHYSIOLOGY 2012; 12:10. [PMID: 22943410 PMCID: PMC3582589 DOI: 10.1186/1472-6793-12-10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2012] [Accepted: 08/16/2012] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In Gallus gallus, eggshell formation takes place daily in the hen uterus and requires large amounts of the ionic precursors for calcium carbonate (CaCO3). Both elements (Ca2+, HCO3-) are supplied by the blood via trans-epithelial transport. Our aims were to identify genes coding for ion transporters that are upregulated in the uterine portion of the oviduct during eggshell calcification, compared to other tissues and other physiological states, and incorporate these proteins into a general model for mineral transfer across the tubular gland cells during eggshell formation. RESULTS A total of 37 candidate ion transport genes were selected from our database of overexpressed uterine genes associated with eggshell calcification, and by analogy with mammalian transporters. Their uterine expression was compared by qRTPCR in the presence and absence of eggshell formation, and with relative expression levels in magnum (low Ca2+/HCO3- movement) and duodenum (high rates of Ca2+/HCO3- trans-epithelial transfer). We identified overexpression of eleven genes related to calcium movement: the TRPV6 Ca2+ channel (basolateral uptake of Ca2+), 28 kDa calbindin (intracellular Ca2+ buffering), the endoplasmic reticulum type 2 and 3 Ca2+ pumps (ER uptake), and the inositol trisphosphate receptors type 1, 2 and 3 (ER release). Ca2+ movement across the apical membrane likely involves membrane Ca2+ pumps and Ca2+/Na+ exchangers. Our data suggests that Na+ transport involved the SCNN1 channel and the Na+/Ca2+ exchangers SLC8A1, 3 for cell uptake, the Na+/K+ ATPase for cell output. K+ uptake resulted from the Na+/K+ ATPase, and its output from the K+ channels (KCNJ2, 15, 16 and KCNMA1).We propose that the HCO3- is mainly produced from CO2 by the carbonic anhydrase 2 (CA2) and that HCO3- is secreted through the HCO3-/Cl- exchanger SLC26A9. HCO3- synthesis and precipitation with Ca2+ produce two H+. Protons are absorbed via the membrane's Ca2+ pumps ATP2B1, 2 in the apical membrane and the vacuolar (H+)-atpases at the basolateral level. Our model incorporate Cl- ions which are absorbed by the HCO3-/Cl- exchanger SLC26A9 and by Cl- channels (CLCN2, CFTR) and might be extruded by Cl-/H+ exchanger (CLCN5), but also by Na+ K+ 2 Cl- and K+ Cl- cotransporters. CONCLUSIONS Our Gallus gallus uterine model proposes a large list of ion transfer proteins supplying Ca2+ and HCO3- and maintaining cellular ionic homeostasis. This avian model should contribute towards understanding the mechanisms and regulation for ionic precursors of CaCO3, and provide insight in other species where epithelia transport large amount of calcium or bicarbonate.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Joël Gautron
- INRA, UR83 Recherches Avicoles, F-37380, Nouzilly, France
| | - Yves Nys
- INRA, UR83 Recherches Avicoles, F-37380, Nouzilly, France
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Brockmeier K, Schultheiss G. Regulation of anion transport across the uterine epithelium of Gallus domesticus. Poult Sci 2011; 90:618-23. [PMID: 21325233 DOI: 10.3382/ps.2010-00862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
For egg shell production, cations, primarily Ca(2+), and anions, primarily HCO(3)(-), must be secreted across the uterine epithelium. Because alterations of HCO(3)(-) transport influence Ca(2+) secretion, the present study was performed to gain insight into the regulation of anion transport (i.e., chloride and HCO(3)(-) transport) across the egg shell gland of the domestic chicken. To this purpose, unstripped uterus epithelia were mounted in modified Ussing chambers and electrogenic [i.e., short circuit current (I(sc))] and electroneutral anion transport were measured. Stimulating adenylate cyclases by forskolin, thereby enhancing the intracellular cyclic adenosine monophosphate( )(cAMP) concentration, evoked 2 patterns of I(sc) responses. Under HCO(3)(-)-buffered conditions, some of the tissues (3/8) showed an increase of I(sc), whereas in others (5/8) a decrease of I(sc) was observed in the presence of the drug. The I(sc) increase existed in HCO(3)(-) secretion because under HCO(3)(-)-free conditions forskolin stimulated only an I(sc) decrease. In addition, methazolamide, a blocker of carboanhydrases, significantly reduced baseline I(sc). The forskolin-induced decrease of I(sc) presented a Cl(-) absorption. In the absence of HCO(3)(-), forskolin yielded only an I(sc) decrease and the transepithelial flux of (36)Cl(-) was reduced. In the presence of mucosal 5-nitro-2-(3-phenylpropylamino) benzoic acid, a nonselective blocker of chloride channels, forskolin-induced I(sc) decrease was inhibited. In addition to cAMP, the regulatory influence of neurons or prostaglandins on baseline I(sc) and anion transport was investigated. Neither tetrodotoxin, a blocker of neuronal Na(+) conductances, electrical field stimulation, nor indomethacin, a blocker of cyclooxygenases, influenced the baseline I(sc) or anion transport. In summary, these data show effects of forskolin (i.e., cAMP) on anion transport across the egg shell gland of the domestic chicken: HCO(3)(-) secretion (supporting Ca(2+) mineralizing of the egg shell) and Cl(-) absorption. Neurons or prostaglandins did not influence the anion transport.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- K Brockmeier
- Institute for Veterinary Physiology, Justus-Liebig-Universität Gießen, D-35392 Gießen, Germany
| | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Bar A. Calcium transport in strongly calcifying laying birds: mechanisms and regulation. Comp Biochem Physiol A Mol Integr Physiol 2008; 152:447-69. [PMID: 19118637 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2008.11.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2008] [Revised: 11/25/2008] [Accepted: 11/25/2008] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Birds that lay long clutches (series of eggs laid sequentially before a "pause day"), among them the high-producing, strongly-calcifying Gallus gallus domesticus (domestic hen) and Coturnix coturnix japonica (Japanese quail), transfer about 10% of their total body calcium daily. They appear, therefore, to be the most efficient calcium-transporters among vertebrates. Such intensive transport imposes severe demands on ionic calcium (Ca2+) homeostasis, and activates at least two extremely effective mechanisms for Ca2+ transfer from food and bone to the eggshell. This review focuses on the development, action and regulation of the mechanisms associated with paracellular and transcellular Ca2+ transport in the intestine and the eggshell gland (ESG); it also considers some of the proteins (calbindin, Ca2+ATPase, Na+/Ca2+ exchange, epithelial calcium channels (TRPVs), osteopontin and carbonic anhydrase (CA) associated with this phenomenon. Calbindins are discussed in some detail, as they appear to be a major component of the transcellular transport system, and as only they have been studied extensively in birds. The review aims to gather old and new knowledge, which could form a conceptual basis, albeit not a completely accepted one, for our understanding of the mechanisms associated with this phenomenon. In the intestine, the transcellular pathway appears to compensate for low Ca2+ intake, but in birds fed adequate calcium the major drive for calcium absorption remains the electrochemical potential difference (ECPD) that facilitates paracellular transport. However, the mechanisms involved in Ca2+ transport into the ESG lumen are not yet established. In the ESG, the presence of Ca2+-ATPase and calbindin--two components of the transcellular transport pathway--and the apparently uphill transport of Ca2+ support the idea that Ca2+ is transported via the transcellular pathway. However, the positive (plasma with respect to mucosa) electrical potential difference (EPD) in the ESG, among other findings, indicates that there may be major alternative or complementary paracellular passive transport pathways. The available evidence hints that the flow from the gut to the ESG, which occurs during a relatively short period (11 to 14 h out the 24- to 25.5-h egg cycle), is primarily driven by carbonic anhydrase (CA) activity in the ESG, which results in high HCO3(-) content that, in turn, "sucks out" Ca2+ from the intestinal lumen via the blood and ESG cells, and deposits it in the shell crystals. The increased CA activity appears to be dependent on energy input, whereas it seems most likely that the Ca2+ movement is secondary, that it utilizes passive paracellular routes that fluctuate in accordance with the appearance of the energy-dependent CA activity, and that the level of Ca2+ movement mimics that of the CA activity. The on-off signals for the overall phenomenon have not yet been identified. They appear to be associated with the circadian cycle of gonadal hormones, coupled with the egg cycle: it is most likely that progesterone acts as the "off" signal, and that the "on" signal is provided by the combined effect of an as-yet undefined endocrine factor associated with ovulation and with the mechanical strain that results from "egg white" formation and "plumping". This strain may initially trigger the formation of the mammillae and the seeding of shell calcium crystals in the isthmus, and thereafter initiate the formation of the shell in the ESG.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arie Bar
- Institute of Animal Science, ARO, the Volcani Ctr., Bet Dagan 50250, Israel.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Gu Y. Effect of [Cl(-)]i on ENaC activity from mouse cortical collecting duct cells. J Cell Physiol 2008; 216:453-7. [PMID: 18348164 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.21413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Na(+) transport via epithelial Na(+) channel (ENaC) occurs across many epithelial surfaces and plays a key role in regulating salt and water absorption. In this study, we have examined the effects of cytosolic Na(+) and Cl(-) on ENaC activity by patch clamping single channel recording method in mouse cortical collecting duct cells (M1). Cytosolic Na(+) exerts its effect in change of ENaC open probability (Po). High cytosolic Na(+) significantly reduces ENaC Po. No change in channel conductance by cytosolic Na(+) is observed. However, decrease of cytosolic Cl(-) concentration significantly increases channel conductance and ENaC Po. This effect is due to the right shift of ENaC I-V curve to positive membrane potential. The virtue of ENaC conductance remains the same. Cl(-) channels like CFTR and VRAC are unlikely to be involved in this regulation. The results suggest that cytosolic Cl(-) could serve as a mediator to regulate ENaC activity, in accordance with the activities of Cl(-) channels.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuchun Gu
- Department of Physiology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, Edgbaston, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Yang KT, Lin CY, Liou JS, Fan YH, Chiou SH, Huang CW, Wu CP, Lin EC, Chen CF, Lee YP, Lee WC, Ding ST, Cheng WTK, Huang MC. Differentially expressed transcripts in shell glands from low and high egg production strains of chickens using cDNA microarrays. Anim Reprod Sci 2007; 101:113-24. [PMID: 17034964 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2006.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2006] [Revised: 08/14/2006] [Accepted: 09/05/2006] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
We have constructed a tissue-specific in-house cDNA microarray to identify differentially expressed transcripts in shell glands from low (B) and high (L2) egg production strains of Taiwanese country chickens during their egg-laying period. The shell gland cDNA library was constructed from the high egg production strain. cDNA clones (7680) were randomly selected and their 5'-end sequences characterized. After excluding overlapping sequences, an in-house cDNA microarray, representing 2743 non-redundant transcripts, was generated for functional genomic studies. Using our microarray, we have successfully identified 85 differentially expressed transcripts from the two different strains of chicken shell glands. In this study, 34 of these transcripts were associated with signal transduction, protein biosynthesis, cell adhesion, cellular metabolism, skeletal development, cell organization and biogenesis. We selected a number of the differentially expressed transcripts for further validation using semi-quantitative RT-PCR. These included elongation factor 2 (EEF2), ovocalyxin-32 (OCX-32) and annexin A2 (ANXA2) which were expressed at high levels in the chicken shell glands of the B strain and, in contrast, the coactosin-like protein (COTL1), transcription factor SOX18 and MX protein were more highly expressed in the L2 strain. Our results suggest that these differentially expressed transcripts may be suitable to use as molecular markers for high rates of egg production, and now need to be investigated further to assess whether they can be applied for use in breeding selection programs in Taiwanese country chickens.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kuo-Tai Yang
- Department of Animal Science, National Chung Hsing University, 250 Kuo-Kuang Road, Taichung, Taiwan
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|