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Sun Q, Yang Y, Zhang Y, Chen D, Zheng H, Qin G, Fu Q. Padi6 expression patterns in buffalo oocytes and preimplantation embryos. Anim Reprod 2024; 21:e20230146. [PMID: 38562607 PMCID: PMC10984561 DOI: 10.1590/1984-3143-ar2023-0146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
The subcortical maternal complex, which consists of maternal-effect genes, plays a crucial role in the development of oocytes and preimplantation embryo until the activation of the zygote genome. One such gene, known as peptidyl-arginine deiminase VI (Padi6), is involved in the oocyte maturation, fertilization and embryonic development. However, the precise function of Padi6 gene in buffalo is still unclear and requires further investigation. In this study, the sequence, mRNA and protein expression patterns of Padi6 gene were analyzed in oocytes, preimplantation embryos and somatic tissues of buffalo. The coding sequence of gene was successfully cloned and characterized. Real-time quantitative PCR results indicated an absence of Padi6 transcripts in somatic tissues. Notably, the expression levels of Padi6 in oocytes showed an increased from the germinal vesicle stage to metaphase II stage, followed by a rapid decrease during the morula and blastocyst stages. Immunofluorescence analysis confirmed these findings, revealing a noticeable decline in protein expression levels. Our research provides the initial comprehensive expression profile of Padi6 in buffalo oocytes and preimplantation embryos, serving as a solid foundation for further investigations into the functionality of maternal-effect genes in buffalo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qinqiang Sun
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Yuan Yang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Yue Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Dongrong Chen
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Haiying Zheng
- Buffalo Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Guangsheng Qin
- Buffalo Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Qiang Fu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
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Huang X, Sun Q, Chen D, Yang W, Zhang J, Liu R, Zhang P, Huang L, Zhang M, Fu Q. Nlrp5 and Tle6 expression patterns in buffalo oocytes and preimplantation embryos. Reprod Domest Anim 2022; 57:481-488. [PMID: 35044003 DOI: 10.1111/rda.14084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2021] [Accepted: 01/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Maternal-effect genes (MEGs) accumulate in oocytes during oogenesis and mediate the preimplantation embryo developmental program until activation of the zygote genome. Nlrp5 and Tle6 are required for normal preimplantation and embryonic development. However, the precise function of these MEGs in buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) remains to be elucidated. The aim of this study was to characterize Nlrp5 and Tle6 sequences, and analyze their mRNA and protein expression patterns in somatic tissues, oocytes, and preimplantation embryos of buffalo. The coding sequences of each gene were successfully cloned and characterized. Real-time quantitative reverse transcription PCR results revealed an absence of Nlrp5 or Tle6 transcripts in somatic tissues, with the exception of ovary. Expression levels of Nlrp5 and Tle6 in oocytes increased from the germinal vesicle stage to metaphase II stage, and then gradually decreased during morula and blastocyst stages. Protein expression patterns were confirmed by immunofluorescence analysis. This study lays a foundation for further validation of the function of MEGs in buffalo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingchen Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Subtropical Agro-Bioresource Conservation and Utilization, Nanning, Guangxi Province, P. R. China, 530004
| | - Qinqiang Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Subtropical Agro-Bioresource Conservation and Utilization, Nanning, Guangxi Province, P. R. China, 530004
| | - Dongrong Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Subtropical Agro-Bioresource Conservation and Utilization, Nanning, Guangxi Province, P. R. China, 530004
| | - Weihan Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Subtropical Agro-Bioresource Conservation and Utilization, Nanning, Guangxi Province, P. R. China, 530004
| | - Junjun Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Subtropical Agro-Bioresource Conservation and Utilization, Nanning, Guangxi Province, P. R. China, 530004
| | - Runfeng Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Subtropical Agro-Bioresource Conservation and Utilization, Nanning, Guangxi Province, P. R. China, 530004
| | - Pengfei Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Subtropical Agro-Bioresource Conservation and Utilization, Nanning, Guangxi Province, P. R. China, 530004
| | - Liangfeng Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Subtropical Agro-Bioresource Conservation and Utilization, Nanning, Guangxi Province, P. R. China, 530004
| | - Ming Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Subtropical Agro-Bioresource Conservation and Utilization, Nanning, Guangxi Province, P. R. China, 530004
| | - Qiang Fu
- State Key Laboratory of Subtropical Agro-Bioresource Conservation and Utilization, Nanning, Guangxi Province, P. R. China, 530004
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Li G, Tian X, Lv D, Zhang L, Zhang Z, Wang J, Yang M, Tao J, Ma T, Wu H, Ji P, Wu Y, Lian Z, Cui W, Liu G. NLRP7 is expressed in the ovine ovary and associated with in vitro pre-implantation embryo development. Reproduction 2020; 158:415-427. [PMID: 31505467 PMCID: PMC6826174 DOI: 10.1530/rep-19-0081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2019] [Accepted: 09/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
NLRP (NACHT, LRR and PYD domain-containing proteins) family plays pivotal roles in mammalian reproduction. Mutation of NLRP7 is often associated with human recurrent hydatidiform moles. Few studies regarding the functions of NLRP7 have been performed in other mammalian species rather than humans. In the current study, for the first time, the function of NLRP7 has been explored in ovine ovary. NLRP7 protein was mainly located in ovarian follicles and in in vitro pre-implantation embryos. To identify its origin, 763 bp partial CDS of NLRP7 deriving from sheep cumulus oocyte complexes (COCs) was cloned, it showed a great homology with Homo sapiens. The high levels of mRNA and protein of NLRP7 were steadily expressed in oocytes, parthenogenetic embryos or IVF embryos. NLRP7 knockdown by the combination of siRNA and shRNA jeopardized both the parthenogenetic and IVF embryo development. These results strongly suggest that NLRP7 plays an important role in ovine reproduction. The potential mechanisms of NLRP7 will be fully investigated in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guangdong Li
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Animal Genetic Improvement, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiuzhi Tian
- Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Dongying Lv
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Animal Genetic Improvement, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Lu Zhang
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Animal Genetic Improvement, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhenzhen Zhang
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Animal Genetic Improvement, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Animal Genetic Improvement, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Minghui Yang
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Animal Genetic Improvement, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Jingli Tao
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Animal Genetic Improvement, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Teng Ma
- Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Hao Wu
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Animal Genetic Improvement, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Pengyun Ji
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Animal Genetic Improvement, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Yingjie Wu
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Animal Genetic Improvement, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhengxing Lian
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Animal Genetic Improvement, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Cui
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Imperial College London, London, UK.,Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Food Nutrition and Human Health, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Guoshi Liu
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Animal Genetic Improvement, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
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The Role of Maternal-Effect Genes in Mammalian Development: Are Mammalian Embryos Really an Exception? Stem Cell Rev Rep 2017; 12:276-84. [PMID: 26892267 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-016-9648-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The essential contribution of multiple maternal factors to early mammalian development is rapidly altering the view that mammals have a unique pattern of development compared to other species. Currently, over 60 maternal-effect mutations have been described in mammalian systems, including critical determinants of pluripotency. This data, combined with the evidence for lineage bias and differential gene expression in early blastomeres, strongly suggests that mammalian development is to some extent mosaic from the four-cell stage onward.
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Sidiq T, Yoshihama S, Downs I, Kobayashi KS. Nod2: A Critical Regulator of Ileal Microbiota and Crohn's Disease. Front Immunol 2016; 7:367. [PMID: 27703457 PMCID: PMC5028879 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2016.00367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2016] [Accepted: 09/06/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The human intestinal tract harbors large bacterial community consisting of commensal, symbiotic, and pathogenic strains, which are constantly interacting with the intestinal immune system. This interaction elicits a non-pathological basal level of immune responses and contributes to shaping both the intestinal immune system and bacterial community. Recent studies on human microbiota are revealing the critical role of intestinal bacterial community in the pathogenesis of both systemic and intestinal diseases, including Crohn’s disease (CD). NOD2 plays a key role in the regulation of microbiota in the small intestine. NOD2 is highly expressed in ileal Paneth cells that provide critical mechanism for the regulation of ileal microbiota through the secretion of anti-bacterial compounds. Genome mapping of CD patients revealed that loss of function mutations in NOD2 are associated with ileal CD. Genome-wide association studies further demonstrated that NOD2 is one of the most critical genetic factor linked to ileal CD. The bacterial community in the ileum is indeed dysregulated in Nod2-deficient mice. Nod2-deficient ileal epithelia exhibit impaired ability of killing bacteria. Thus, altered interactions between ileal microbiota and mucosal immunity through NOD2 mutations play significant roles in the disease susceptibility and pathogenesis in CD patients, thereby depicting NOD2 as a critical regulator of ileal microbiota and CD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tabasum Sidiq
- Department of Microbial Pathogenesis and Immunology, College of Medicine, Texas A&M University , College Station, TX , USA
| | - Sayuri Yoshihama
- Department of Microbial Pathogenesis and Immunology, College of Medicine, Texas A&M University , College Station, TX , USA
| | - Isaac Downs
- Department of Microbial Pathogenesis and Immunology, College of Medicine, Texas A&M University , College Station, TX , USA
| | - Koichi S Kobayashi
- Department of Microbial Pathogenesis and Immunology, College of Medicine, Texas A&M University , College Station, TX , USA
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Bebbere D, Masala L, Albertini DF, Ledda S. The subcortical maternal complex: multiple functions for one biological structure? J Assist Reprod Genet 2016; 33:1431-1438. [PMID: 27525657 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-016-0788-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2016] [Accepted: 08/02/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The subcortical maternal complex (SCMC) is a multiprotein complex uniquely expressed in mammalian oocytes and early embryos, essential for zygote progression beyond the first embryonic cell divisions. Similiar to other factors encoded by maternal effect genes, the physiological role of SCMC remains unclear, although recent evidence has provided important molecular insights into different possible functions. Its potential involvement in human fertility is attracting increasing attention; however, the complete story is far from being told. The present mini review provides an overview of recent findings related to the SCMC and discusses its potential physiological role/s with the aim of inspiring new directions for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Bebbere
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, via Vienna 2, 07100, Sassari, Italy.
| | - L Masala
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, via Vienna 2, 07100, Sassari, Italy
| | - D F Albertini
- The Center for Human Reproduction, New York, NY, USA.,Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA
| | - S Ledda
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, via Vienna 2, 07100, Sassari, Italy
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Lu YQ, He XC, Zheng P. Decrease in expression of maternal effect gene Mater is associated with maternal ageing in mice. Mol Hum Reprod 2016; 22:252-60. [PMID: 26769260 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaw001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2015] [Accepted: 01/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY HYPOTHESIS What factors in mouse oocytes are involved in the ageing-related decline in oocyte quality? STUDY FINDING The maternal effect gene Mater is involved in ageing-related oocyte quality decline in mice. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Premature loss of centromere cohesion is a hallmark of ageing-related oocyte quality decline; the maternal effect gene Mater (maternal antigen that embryos require, also known as Nlrp5) is required for preimplantation embryo development beyond the 2-cell stage, and mRNA expression of Mater decreases with maternal ageing. STUDY DESIGN, SAMPLES/MATERIALS, METHODS Mater protein expression level in mature oocytes from 7 young (5-8 weeks old) to 7 old mice (41-68 weeks old) was compared by immunoblotting analysis. Wild-type and Mater-null mice were used to examine whether Mater is necessary for maintaining normal centromere cohesion by means of cytogenetic karyotyping, time-lapse confocal microscopy and immunofluorescence staining. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Mater protein is decreased in mature oocytes from old versus young mice (P = 0.0022). Depletion of Mater from oocytes leads to a reduction in centromere cohesion, manifested by precocious sister chromatid separation, enlargement of sister centromere distance and misalignment of chromosomes in the metaphase plate during meiosis I and II. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION This study was conducted in mice. Whether or not the results are applicable to human remains further elucidation. In addition, we were unable to confirm if the strain of mice (C57BL/6XSv129) at the age of 41-68 weeks old has the 'cohesin-loss' phenotype. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Investigating Mater's functional mechanisms could provide fresh insights into understanding how the ageing-related oocyte quality decline occurs. LARGE SCALE DATA N/A. STUDY FUNDING AND COMPETING INTERESTS This work was supported by the research grant from Chinese NSFC to P.Z. (31071274). We have no conflict of interests to declare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong-qing Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Resources and Evolution, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, Yunnan 650223, China Yunnan Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, Yunnan 650223, China
| | - Xie-chao He
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Resources and Evolution, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, Yunnan 650223, China Yunnan Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, Yunnan 650223, China
| | - Ping Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Resources and Evolution, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, Yunnan 650223, China Yunnan Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, Yunnan 650223, China
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8
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Trapphoff T, Heiligentag M, Dankert D, Demond H, Deutsch D, Fröhlich T, Arnold GJ, Grümmer R, Horsthemke B, Eichenlaub-Ritter U. Postovulatory aging affects dynamics of mRNA, expression and localization of maternal effect proteins, spindle integrity and pericentromeric proteins in mouse oocytes. Hum Reprod 2016; 31:133-49. [PMID: 26577303 PMCID: PMC5853592 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dev279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2015] [Revised: 10/06/2015] [Accepted: 10/13/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Is the postovulatory aging-dependent differential decrease of mRNAs and polyadenylation of mRNAs coded by maternal effect genes associated with altered abundance and distribution of maternal effect and RNA-binding proteins (MSY2)? SUMMARY ANSWER Postovulatory aging results in differential reduction in abundance of maternal effect proteins, loss of RNA-binding proteins from specific cytoplasmic domains and critical alterations of pericentromeric proteins without globally affecting protein abundance. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Oocyte postovulatory aging is associated with differential alteration in polyadenylation and reduction in abundance of mRNAs coded by selected maternal effect genes. RNA-binding and -processing proteins are involved in storage, polyadenylation and degradation of mRNAs thus regulating stage-specific recruitment of maternal mRNAs, while chromosomal proteins that are stage-specifically expressed at pericentromeres, contribute to control of chromosome segregation and regulation of gene expression in the zygote. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Germinal vesicle (GV) and metaphase II (MII) oocytes from sexually mature C57B1/6J female mice were investigated. Denuded in vivo or in vitro matured MII oocytes were postovulatory aged and analyzed by semiquantitative confocal microscopy for abundance and localization of polyadenylated RNAs, proteins of maternal effect genes (transcription activator BRG1 also known as ATP-dependent helicase SWI/SNF related, matrix associated, actin dependent regulator of chromatin, subfamily a, member 4 (SMARCA4) and NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain containing 5 (NLRP5) also known as MATER), RNA-binding proteins (MSY2 also known as germ cell-specific Y-box-binding protein, YBX2), and post-transcriptionally modified histones (trimethylated histone H3K9 and acetylated histone H4K12), as well as pericentromeric ATRX (alpha thalassemia/mental retardation syndrome X-linked, also termed ATP-dependent helicase ATRX or X-linked nuclear protein (XNP)). For proteome analysis five replicates of 30 mouse oocytes were analyzed by selected reaction monitoring (SRM). MATERIAL AND METHODS GV and MII oocytes were obtained from large antral follicles or ampullae of sexually mature mice, respectively. Denuded MII oocytes were aged for 24 h post ovulation. For analysis of distribution and abundance of polyadenylated RNAs fixed oocytes were in situ hybridized to Cy5 labeled oligo(dT)20 nucleotides. Absolute quantification of protein concentration per oocyte of selected proteins was done by SRM proteome analysis. Relative abundance of ATRX was assessed by confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) of whole mount formaldehyde fixed oocytes or after removal of zona and spreading. MSY2 protein distribution and abundance was studied in MII oocytes prior to, during and after exposure to nocodazole, or after aging for 2 h in presence of H2O2 or for 24 h in presence of a glutathione donor, glutathione ethylester (GEE). MAIN RESULTS AND ROLE OF CHANCE The significant reduction in abundance of proteins (P < 0.001) translated from maternal mRNAs was independent of polyadenylation status, while their protein localization was not significantly changed by aging. Most of other proteins quantified by SRM analysis did not significantly change in abundance upon aging except MSY2 and GTSF1. MSY2 was enriched in the subcortical RNP domain (SCRD) and in the spindle chromosome complex (SCC) in a distinct pattern, right and left to the chromosomes. There was a significant loss of MSY2 from the SCRD (P < 0.001) and the spindle after postovulatory aging. Microtubule de- and repolymerization caused reversible loss of MSY2 spindle-association whereas H2O2 stress did not significantly decrease MSY2 abundance. Aging in presence of GEE decreased significantly (P < 0.05) the aging-related overall and cytoplasmic loss of MSY2. Postovulatory aging increased significantly spindle abnormalities, unaligned chromosomes, and abundance of acetylated histone H4K12, and decreased pericentromeric trimethylated histone H3K9 (all P < 0.001). Spreading revealed a highly significant increase in pericentromeric ATRX (P < 0.001) upon ageing. Thus, the significantly reduced abundance of MSY2 protein, especially at the SCRD and the spindle may disturb the spatial control and timely recruitment, deadenylation and degradation of developmentally important RNAs. An autonomous program of degradation appears to exist which transiently and specifically induces the loss and displacement of transcripts and specific maternal proteins independent of fertilization in aging oocytes and thereby can critically affect chromosome segregation and gene expression in the embryo after fertilization. LIMITATION, REASONS FOR CAUTION We used the mouse oocyte to study processes associated with postovulatory aging, which may not entirely reflect processes in aging human oocytes. However, increases in spindle abnormalities, unaligned chromosomes and H4K12 acetylated histones, as well as in mRNA abundance and polyadenylation have been observed also in aged human oocytes suggesting conserved processes in aging. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Postovulatory aging precociously induces alterations in expression and epigenetic modifications of chromatin by ATRX and in histone pattern in MII oocytes that normally occur after fertilization, possibly contributing to disturbances in the oocyte-to-embryo transition (OET) and the zygotic gene activation (ZGA). These observations in mouse oocytes are also relevant to explain disturbances and reduced developmental potential of aged human oocytes and caution to prevent oocyte aging in vivo and in vitro. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS The study has been supported by the German Research Foundation (DFG) (EI 199/7-1 | GR 1138/12-1 | HO 949/21-1 and FOR 1041). There is no competing interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Trapphoff
- Institute of Gene Technology/Microbiology, University of Bielefeld, Bielefeld, Germany
| | - M Heiligentag
- Institute of Gene Technology/Microbiology, University of Bielefeld, Bielefeld, Germany
| | - D Dankert
- Institute of Anatomy, University Hospital, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - H Demond
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Hospital, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - D Deutsch
- Laboratory for Functional Genome Analysis, Gene Center, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - T Fröhlich
- Laboratory for Functional Genome Analysis, Gene Center, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - G J Arnold
- Laboratory for Functional Genome Analysis, Gene Center, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - R Grümmer
- Institute of Anatomy, University Hospital, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - B Horsthemke
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Hospital, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - U Eichenlaub-Ritter
- Institute of Gene Technology/Microbiology, University of Bielefeld, Bielefeld, Germany
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9
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Peng H, Liu F, Li W, Zhang W. Knockdown of NLRP5 arrests early embryogenesis in sows. Anim Reprod Sci 2015; 163:151-6. [PMID: 26585895 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2015.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2015] [Revised: 09/20/2015] [Accepted: 11/02/2015] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
NLRP (NLR family, Pyrin domain containing) genes have both immunization- and reproduction-related clades in mammals. Nlrp5 is a reproduction-related gene, originally identified in the mouse, which plays a key role in mouse early embryogenesis. Previous studies estimated that the porcine NLRP5 gene is assigned to the long arm of chromosome 6 and expressed in oocytes. However, the expression pattern of the NLRP5 gene in the porcine reproductive tract, and the localization and function of NLRP5 protein in porcine preimplantation embryos are still unknown. Here, we show that NLRP5 transcripts and protein are detected exclusively in the ovary in the porcine reproductive tract. Furthermore, the transcripts display a sharp decline in porcine preimplantation embryos before zygotic genome activation, but the protein remains present through to the blastocyst stage, localize in the cytoplasm and close to the subcortex of porcine oocytes and preimplantation embryos. Moreover, the knockdown of NLRP5 expression in zygotes using RNA interference arrested early embryonic development. These results provide the first evidence that the NLRP5 gene is required for early embryogenesis in sows, suggesting that this gene might play an essential role in zygotic genome activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Peng
- College of Animal Science, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350002, PR China
| | - Fang Liu
- College of Animal Science, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350002, PR China
| | - Wenhao Li
- College of Animal Science, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350002, PR China
| | - Wenchang Zhang
- College of Animal Science, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350002, PR China.
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10
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Bebbere D, Ariu F, Bogliolo L, Masala L, Murrone O, Fattorini M, Falchi L, Ledda S. Expression of maternally derived KHDC3, NLRP5, OOEP and TLE6 is associated with oocyte developmental competence in the ovine species. BMC DEVELOPMENTAL BIOLOGY 2014; 14:40. [PMID: 25420964 PMCID: PMC4247878 DOI: 10.1186/s12861-014-0040-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2014] [Accepted: 11/11/2014] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The sub-cortical maternal complex (SCMC), located in the subcortex of mouse oocytes and preimplantation embryos, is composed of at least four proteins encoded by maternal effect genes: OOEP, NLRP5/MATER, TLE6 and KHDC3/FILIA. The SCMC assembles during oocyte growth and was seen to be essential for murine zygote progression beyond the first embryonic cell divisions; although roles in chromatin reprogramming and embryonic genome activation were hypothesized, the full range of functions of the complex in preimplantation development remains largely unknown. RESULTS Here we report the expression of the SCMC genes in ovine oocytes and pre-implantation embryos, describing for the first time its expression in a large mammalian species. We report sheep-specific patterns of expression and a relationship with the oocyte developmental potential in terms of delayed degradation of maternal SCMC transcripts in pre-implantation embryos derived from developmentally incompetent oocytes. In addition, by determining OOEP full length cDNA by Rapid Amplification of cDNA Ends (RACE) we identified two different transcript variants (OOEP1 and OOEP2), both expressed in oocytes and early embryos, but with different somatic tissue distributions. In silico translation showed that 140 aminoacid peptide OOEP1 shares an identity with orthologous proteins ranging from 95% with the bovine to 45% with mouse. Conversely, OOEP2 contains a premature termination codon, thus representing an alternative noncoding transcript and supporting the existence of aberrant splicing during ovine oogenesis. CONCLUSIONS These findings confirm the existence of the SCMC in sheep and its key role for the oocyte developmental potential, deepening our understanding on the molecular differences underlying cytoplasmic vs nuclear maturation of the oocytes. Describing differences and overlaps in transcriptome composition between model organisms advance our comprehension of the diversity/uniformity between mammalian species during early embryonic development and provide information on genes that play important regulatory roles in fertility in nonmurine models, including the human.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Bebbere
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, via Vienna 2, 07100, Sassari, Italy.
| | - Federica Ariu
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, via Vienna 2, 07100, Sassari, Italy.
| | - Luisa Bogliolo
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, via Vienna 2, 07100, Sassari, Italy.
| | - Laura Masala
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, via Vienna 2, 07100, Sassari, Italy.
| | - Ombretta Murrone
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, via Vienna 2, 07100, Sassari, Italy.
| | - Mauro Fattorini
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, via Vienna 2, 07100, Sassari, Italy.
| | - Laura Falchi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, via Vienna 2, 07100, Sassari, Italy.
| | - Sergio Ledda
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, via Vienna 2, 07100, Sassari, Italy.
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Bogacki M, Wasielak M, Kitewska A, Bogacka I, Jalali BM. The effect of hormonal estrus induction on maternal effect and apoptosis-related genes expression in porcine cumulus-oocyte complexes. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2014; 12:32. [PMID: 24885667 PMCID: PMC4012087 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-12-32] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2013] [Accepted: 03/27/2014] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The effect of hormonal estrus induction on maternal effect (MATER - maternal antigen that embryo requires, ZAR-1 - zygote arrest 1, and BMP15 - bone morphogenetic protein 15) and apoptosis-related genes expression (BCL-2 and BAX) in porcine cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) and selected follicular parameters was investigated in this study. METHODS Gilts were divided into three groups: (I) with natural estrus; (II) stimulated with PMSG/hCG; and (III) with PMSG/hCG + PGF2alpha. Analysis of maternal effect and apoptosis-related transcripts expression in COCs, and progesterone synthesis pathway genes expression (P450scc and 3betaHSD) in granulosa cells was performed by qPCR. BMP15 protein expression in follicular fluid (FF) was analyzed by western blot. Oocyte nuclear maturation was assessed by aceto-orcein staining. Progesterone (P4) and estradiol (E2) concentrations in FF and serum were measured by ELISA. Data were analyzed with the one-way ANOVA and Bonferroni post-test or Kruskal-Wallis test and Dunns post-test. RESULTS The highest expression of MATER, ZAR-1, and BMP15 genes was found in COCs recovered from gilts treated with PMSG/hCG when compared to PMSG/hCG + PGF2alpha-stimulated or non-stimulated gilts. Hormonal treatment did not affect the BMP15 protein expression in FF, but increased the expression of genes participating in P4 synthesis in granulosa cells. The higher percentage of immature oocytes was found in PMSG/hCG-treated when compared to the non-stimulated gilts. The expression of BCL-2 and BAX mRNA, and BCL-2/BAX mRNA ratio was significantly higher in COCs derived from PMSG/hCG-treated when compared to PMSG/hCG + PGF2alpha-treated or non-stimulated subjects. The level of P4 in serum was similar in animals from all experimental groups, while its concentration in FF was greater in gilts subjected to PMSG/hCG treatment than in PMSG/hCG + PGF2alpha-stimulated and non-stimulated gilts. The concentration of E2 did not differ in the serum or FF between the control group and the hormonally stimulated groups. CONCLUSIONS Hormonal induction of estrus affected maternal effect gene transcripts levels in COCs and and oocyte nuclear maturation. The inclusion of PGF2alpha into the stimulation protocol enabled maintaining of physiological concentration of P4 in FF. Additionally, both hormonal treatments seem to be beneficial for apoptosis prevention through increasing BCL-2/BAX transcript ratio.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marek Bogacki
- Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research of Polish Academy of Sciences, Tuwima 10, Olsztyn 10-748, Poland
| | - Marta Wasielak
- Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research of Polish Academy of Sciences, Tuwima 10, Olsztyn 10-748, Poland
| | - Anna Kitewska
- Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research of Polish Academy of Sciences, Tuwima 10, Olsztyn 10-748, Poland
| | - Iwona Bogacka
- Department of Animal Physiology, University of Warmia and Mazury, Oczapowskiego 2, Olsztyn 10-719, Poland
| | - Beenu Moza Jalali
- Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research of Polish Academy of Sciences, Tuwima 10, Olsztyn 10-748, Poland
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Peng H, Zhang W, Xiao T, Zhang Y. Nlrp4g is an oocyte-specific gene but is not required for oocyte maturation in the mouse. Reprod Fertil Dev 2014; 26:758-68. [DOI: 10.1071/rd12409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2012] [Accepted: 05/02/2013] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The Nlrp gene family contains 20 members and plays a pivotal role in the innate immune and reproductive systems in the mouse. The aim of the present study was to analyse the Nlrp4g gene expression pattern, protein distribution and function in mouse oocyte maturation. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and in situ hybridisation were performed on Nlrp4g mRNA. Western blotting, immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence were used to assess expression at the protein level. Confocal and immunogold electron microscopy analyses and RNA interference approach were used to determine the location of the NLRP4G protein and inhibit Nlrp4g function specifically in mouse germinal vesicle oocytes, respectively. Nlrp4g transcripts and proteins (~85 kDa) are specifically expressed in mouse ovaries, restricted to the oocytes at various follicular stages and decline with oocyte aging. There is a marked decline in transcript levels in preimplantation embryos before zygotic genome activation, but the protein remains present through to the blastocyst stage. Confocal microscopy demonstrated that this protein is localised in the cytoplasm. Immunogold electron microscopy further confirmed that NLRP4G protein was present in the cytosol rather than in oocyte cytoplasmic organelles. Furthermore, knockdown of Nlrp4g in germinal vesicle oocytes did not affect oocyte maturation. These results provide the first evidence that Nlrp4g is an oocyte-specific gene but dispensable for oocyte maturation, suggesting that this gene may play roles in mouse oogenesis and/or preimplantation development.
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Peng H, Chang B, Lu C, Su J, Wu Y, Lv P, Wang Y, Liu J, Zhang B, Quan F, Guo Z, Zhang Y. Nlrp2, a maternal effect gene required for early embryonic development in the mouse. PLoS One 2012; 7:e30344. [PMID: 22295082 PMCID: PMC3266252 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0030344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2011] [Accepted: 12/14/2011] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Maternal effect genes encode proteins that are produced during oogenesis and play an essential role during early embryogenesis. Genetic ablation of such genes in oocytes can result in female subfertility or infertility. Here we report a newly identified maternal effect gene, Nlrp2, which plays a role in early embryogenesis in the mouse. Nlrp2 mRNAs and their proteins (∼118 KDa) are expressed in oocytes and granulosa cells during folliculogenesis. The transcripts show a striking decline in early preimplantation embryos before zygotic genome activation, but the proteins remain present through to the blastocyst stage. Immunogold electron microscopy revealed that the NLRP2 protein is located in the cytoplasm, nucleus and close to nuclear pores in the oocytes, as well as in the surrounding granulosa cells. Using RNA interference, we knocked down Nlrp2 transcription specifically in mouse germinal vesicle oocytes. The knockdown oocytes could progress through the metaphase of meiosis I and emit the first polar body. However, the development of parthenogenetic embryos derived from Nlrp2 knockdown oocytes mainly blocked at the 2-cell stage. The maternal depletion of Nlrp2 in zygotes led to early embryonic arrest. In addition, overexpression of Nlrp2 in zygotes appears to lead to normal development, but increases blastomere apoptosis in blastocysts. These results provide the first evidence that Nlrp2 is a member of the mammalian maternal effect genes and required for early embryonic development in the mouse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Peng
- Key Laboratory of Animal Reproductive Physiology and Embryo Technology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest Agriculture and Forestry University, Yangling, Shanxi, People's Republic of China
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