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Gómez-Guzmán JA, Parra-Bracamonte GM, Velazquez MA. Impact of Heat Stress on Oocyte Developmental Competence and Pre-Implantation Embryo Viability in Cattle. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:2280. [PMID: 39123806 PMCID: PMC11311040 DOI: 10.3390/ani14152280] [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: 07/14/2024] [Revised: 07/31/2024] [Accepted: 08/03/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Rectal and vaginal temperatures are utilised in both in vivo and in vitro models to study the effects of heat stress on oocyte competence and embryo viability in cattle. However, uterine temperature increases by only 0.5 °C in heat-stressed cows, significantly lower than simulated increases in in vitro models. Temperature variations within oviducts and ovarian follicles during heat stress are poorly understood or unavailable, and evidence is lacking that oocytes and pre-implantation embryos experience mild (40 °C) or severe (41 °C) heat stress inside the ovarian follicle and the oviduct and uterus, respectively. Gathering detailed temperature data from the reproductive tract and follicles is crucial to accurately assess oocyte competence and embryo viability under realistic heat stress conditions. Potential harm from heat stress on oocytes and embryos may result from reduced nutrient availability (e.g., diminished blood flow to the reproductive tract) or other unidentified mechanisms affecting tissue function rather than direct thermal effects. Refining in vivo stress models in cattle is essential to accurately identify animals truly experiencing heat stress, rather than assuming heat stress exposure as done in most studies. This will improve model reliability and aid in the selection of heat-tolerant animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier A. Gómez-Guzmán
- Centro de Biotecnología Genómica, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Reynosa 88710, Tamaulipas, Mexico; (J.A.G.-G.); (G.M.P.-B.)
| | - Gaspar M. Parra-Bracamonte
- Centro de Biotecnología Genómica, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Reynosa 88710, Tamaulipas, Mexico; (J.A.G.-G.); (G.M.P.-B.)
| | - Miguel A. Velazquez
- School of Natural and Environmental Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 7RU, UK
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2
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Mills MD, Pollock AB, Batey IE, O’Neil MA, Schrick FN, Payton RR, Moorey SE, Fioravanti P, Hipsher W, Zoca SM, Edwards JL. Magnitude and persistence of higher estrus-associated temperatures in beef heifers and suckled cows. J Anim Sci 2024; 102:skae079. [PMID: 38502838 PMCID: PMC10998462 DOI: 10.1093/jas/skae079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Higher estrus-associated temperatures (HEAT) are a hallmark feature in sexually active females. The overarching aim of this study was to characterize the variability, magnitude, and persistence of HEAT in heifers and suckled beef cows as well as identify associated factors when occurring during thermoneutral conditions at the onset of the spring breeding season. In both heifers and cows, estrus was induced using a 7-d controlled internal drug release (CIDR)-PGF2α protocol. Vaginal temperature after prostaglandin F2α administration was recorded every 5 min using a Thermochron iButton affixed to a blank CIDR (containing no progesterone). Estrus was defined as when a heifer first stood to be mounted or when a cow had an Estrotect patch score of 3 or 4. Level of HEAT varied among individual animals. When comparing common HEAT variables using a mixed model with date nested within a year, maximum HEAT (39.9 ± 0.1 and 40.0 ± 0.1 °C) and duration (15.5 ± 0.8 and 15.4 ± 0.7) were similar in heifers and cows, respectively. However, the magnitude and persistence of HEAT differed. Total area under the HEAT curve was 117.1 ± 13.5 and 158.7 ± 12.3 for heifers vs cows, respectively (P = 0.0571). Further, 42.9% of heifers and 49% of cows had maximum HEAT ≥ 40 °C which persisted up to 6.5 and 10 h, respectively. When ambient conditions were predominantly thermoneutral, temperature humidity index had minimal impact on HEAT (mixed model, repeated measures over time). Toward identifying associated factors with different aspects of HEAT using best fit hierarchical linear regression models, baseline vaginal temperature and baseline duration were the most highly associated independent variables. Follicle size, estradiol and progesterone levels, and other available animal-related variables (e.g., age, weight, hair coat score) explained only a small amount of variation in HEAT. In summary, level of HEAT varies in estrus females even under thermoneutral conditions. Because HEAT can persist for an extended time, direct effects on fertility important components are unavoidable. Whether HEAT is a good or bad component of the periovulatory microenvironment is the basis of ongoing and future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan D Mills
- Department of Animal Science, The University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture and AgResearch, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - Abigayle B Pollock
- Department of Animal Science, The University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture and AgResearch, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - Ian E Batey
- Department of Animal Science, The University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture and AgResearch, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - Michael A O’Neil
- Office of Innovative Technologies—Research Computing Support, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - F Neal Schrick
- Department of Animal Science, The University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture and AgResearch, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - Rebecca R Payton
- Department of Animal Science, The University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture and AgResearch, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - Sarah E Moorey
- Department of Animal Science, The University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture and AgResearch, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - Pablo Fioravanti
- Department of Animal Science, The University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture and AgResearch, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - Will Hipsher
- Department of Animal Science, The University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture and AgResearch, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - Saulo M Zoca
- Department of Animal Science, The University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture and AgResearch, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - J Lannett Edwards
- Department of Animal Science, The University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture and AgResearch, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
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3
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Khan I, Mesalam A, Heo YS, Lee SH, Nabi G, Kong IK. Heat Stress as a Barrier to Successful Reproduction and Potential Alleviation Strategies in Cattle. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:2359. [PMID: 37508136 PMCID: PMC10376617 DOI: 10.3390/ani13142359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Revised: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent decades, the adverse effects of global warming on all living beings have been unanimously recognized across the world. A high environmental temperature that increases the respiration and rectal temperature of cattle is called heat stress (HS), and it can affect both male and female reproductive functions. For successful reproduction and fertilization, mature and healthy oocytes are crucial; however, HS reduces the developmental competence of oocytes, which compromises reproduction. HS disturbs the hormonal balance that plays a crucial role in successful reproduction, particularly in reducing the luteinizing hormone and progesterone levels, which leads to severe problems such as poor follicle development with a poor-quality oocyte and problems related to maturity, silent estrus, abnormal or weak embryo development, and pregnancy loss, resulting in a declining reproduction rate and losses for the cattle industry. Lactating cattle are particularly susceptible to HS and, hence, their reproduction rate is substantially reduced. Additionally, bulls are also affected by HS; during summer, semen quality and sperm motility decline, leading to compromised reproduction. In summer, the conception rate is reduced by 20-30% worldwide. Although various techniques, such as the provision of water sprinklers, shade, and air conditioning, are used during summer, these methods are insufficient to recover the normal reproduction rate and, therefore, special attention is needed to improve reproductive efficiency and minimize the detrimental effect of HS on cattle during summer. The application of advanced reproductive technologies such as the production of embryos in vitro, cryopreservation during the hot season, embryo transfer, and timed artificial insemination may minimize the detrimental effects of HS on livestock reproduction and recover the losses in the cattle industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Imran Khan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, Keimyung University, 1095 Dalgubeol-daero, Dalseo-gu, Daegu 42601, Republic of Korea
| | - Ayman Mesalam
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44519, Egypt
| | - Yun Seok Heo
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, Keimyung University, 1095 Dalgubeol-daero, Dalseo-gu, Daegu 42601, Republic of Korea
- Department of Premedicine, School of Medicine, Keimyung University, 1095 Dalgubeol-daero, Dalseo-gu, Daegu 42601, Republic of Korea
| | - Seo-Hyun Lee
- Department of Animal Science, Division of Applied Life Science (BK21 Four), Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52828, Republic of Korea
| | - Ghulam Nabi
- Institute of Nature Conservation, Polish Academy of Sciences, 31-120 Krakow, Poland
| | - Il-Keun Kong
- Department of Animal Science, Division of Applied Life Science (BK21 Four), Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52828, Republic of Korea
- The King Kong Corp., Ltd., Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52828, Republic of Korea
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4
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Liles HL, Schneider LG, Pohler KG, Oliveira Filho RV, Neal Schrick F, Payton RR, Rhinehart JD, Thompson KW, McLean K, Edwards JL. Positive relationship of rectal temperature at fixed timed artificial insemination on pregnancy outcomes in beef cattle. J Anim Sci 2022; 100:6620791. [PMID: 35772756 DOI: 10.1093/jas/skac100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The overarching aim was to examine the relationship of rectal temperature at fixed time artificial insemination (FTAI) on pregnancy outcomes in a typical breeding season with expected pregnancy rates approaching 50% using Bos indicus and Bos taurus cattle. This represents a continuum of steps to test the hypothesis that elevated body temperature at or around insemination is functionally important to maximize pregnancy outcomes. Rectal temperature of Bos indicus cattle at FTAI ranged from 37.0 to 40.9 °C; 60.6% were hyperthermic. Positive factors impacting pregnancy outcomes were rectal temperature at FTAI, body condition, and estrus patch scores. Rectal temperature at FTAI was positively associated with pregnancy outcomes (P < 0.0001); per each 1 °C increase pregnancy odds increased 1.9 times (95% CI: 1.4 to 2.6). Highest pregnancy outcomes occurred with rectal temperatures exceeding 40 °C (P = 0.0004). Rectal temperature before FTAI in Bos taurus cattle ranged from 37.8 to 41.8 °C; 43.3% were hyperthermic. Factors impacting pregnancy were rectal temperature at FTAI, estrus activity, parity, and ambient conditions on day of FTAI. Rectal temperature of Bos taurus cattle at FTAI was positively associated with pregnancy (P = 0.0286); odds increased 1.45 times (95% CI: 1.0 to 2.0) per each 1 °C increase. Highest pregnancy outcomes occurred with rectal temperatures at FTAI exceeding 40 °C (P = 0.057). Moreover, positive relationship of rectal temperature at FTAI to pregnancy persisted in estrual females (71.25% of total; P = 0.0408; OR 1.5; 95% CI: 1.0 to 2.2). Mindful that 1) elevated temperatures observed in Bos indicus and Bos taurus cattle directly promote meiotic resumption of the oocyte in vitro and that 2) in vivo hyperthermia alters intrafollicular components which others have shown to potentiate ovulation and promote meiotic resumption, it is biologically plausible that an acute elevation in body temperature at or around time of insemination is functionally important to maximize pregnancy outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hunter L Liles
- Department of Animal Science, Institute of Agriculture, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - Liesel G Schneider
- Department of Animal Science, Institute of Agriculture, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - Ky G Pohler
- Department of Animal Science, Pregnancy and Developmental Programming Area of Excellence, Texas A & M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Ramiro V Oliveira Filho
- Department of Animal Science, Pregnancy and Developmental Programming Area of Excellence, Texas A & M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - F Neal Schrick
- Department of Animal Science, Institute of Agriculture, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - Rebecca R Payton
- Department of Animal Science, Institute of Agriculture, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - Justin D Rhinehart
- Department of Animal Science, Institute of Agriculture, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - Kevin W Thompson
- University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture, Middle Tennessee Research and Education Center, Spring Hill, TN 37174, USA
| | - Kyle McLean
- Department of Animal Science, Institute of Agriculture, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - J Lannett Edwards
- Department of Animal Science, Institute of Agriculture, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
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5
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Ghaffari MH. Developmental programming: prenatal and postnatal consequences of hyperthermia in dairy cows and calves. Domest Anim Endocrinol 2022; 80:106723. [PMID: 35339732 DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2022.106723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2021] [Revised: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
With global warming, the incidence of heat stress in dairy cows is increasing in many countries. Temperatures outside the thermoneutral zone (heat stress) are one of the environmental factors with the greatest impact on milk production and reproductive performance of dairy cows. In addition to several biological mechanisms that may contribute to the effects of fetal programming, epigenetic modifications have also been investigated as possible mediators of the observed associations between maternal heat stress during late gestation and performance and health later in life. In utero programming of these offspring may coordinate changes in thermoregulation, mammary gland development, and milk production ability at different developmental stages. This review examines the effects of prenatal and postnatal hyperthermia on the developmental outcomes of dairy cows, as well as the physiological and molecular mechanisms that may be responsible for the negative phenotypic consequences of heat stress that persist throughout the neonatal and adult periods and may have multigenerational implications. The physiological and molecular mechanisms underlying the negative phenotypic consequences of heat stress are discussed. Research challenges in this area, future research recommendations, and therapeutic applications are also discussed. In summary, strategies to reduce heat stress during the dry period should consider not only the productivity of the pregnant cow but also the well-being of the newborn calf.
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Elgendy O, Kitahara G, Taniguchi S, Osawa T. 5-Aminolevulinic acid combined with sodium ferrous citrate mitigates effects of heat stress on bovine oocyte developmental competence. J Reprod Dev 2022; 68:271-277. [PMID: 35705297 PMCID: PMC9334322 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2021-145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
High summer temperatures have deleterious effects on oocyte developmental competence. The antioxidant and autophagy-related properties of 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA) gives the compound a
broad range of biological activities. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of: 1) a high temperature-humidity index (THI) on the developmental competence of bovine oocytes, and 2) 5-ALA
administration in combination with sodium ferrous citrate (SFC) during in vitro maturation (IVM) on bovine oocyte developmental competence evaluated at high THI. Bovine
ovaries were collected from a local slaughterhouse at moderate environmental temperature (MT; THI of 56.2) and high environmental temperature (HT; THI of 76.7) periods; cumulus-oocyte
complexes (COCs) were aspirated from medium-sized follicles, matured in vitro for 22 h, fertilized, and cultured for 10 days. For COCs collected during the HT period, 0
(control), 0.01, 0.1, 0.5, or 1 µM 5-ALA was added to the maturation medium in combination with SFC at a molar ratio of 1:0.125. The results showed that HT adversely affected blastocyst and
hatching rates compared with MT. Adding 5-ALA/SFC (1 µM/0.125 µM) to the maturation medium of oocytes collected during the HT period improved cumulus cell expansion and blastocyst rates
compared with the no-addition control. In conclusion, this study showed that high THI can disrupt bovine oocyte developmental competence. Adding 5-ALA to SFC ameliorates this negative effect
of heat stress and improves subsequent embryo development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omnia Elgendy
- Graduate School of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki 889-2192, Japan.,Department of Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki 889-2192, Japan.,Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Benha University, Qalyobia 3736, Egypt
| | - Go Kitahara
- Graduate School of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki 889-2192, Japan.,Department of Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki 889-2192, Japan
| | - Shin Taniguchi
- Graduate School of Biosphere Science, Hiroshima University, Higashi-Hiroshima 739-8528, Japan.,One Health Business Department, Neopharma Japan Co., Ltd., Tokyo 102-0071, Japan
| | - Takeshi Osawa
- Graduate School of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki 889-2192, Japan.,Department of Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki 889-2192, Japan
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7
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Diaz FA, Gutierrez-Castillo EJ, Foster BA, Hardin PT, Bondioli KR, Jiang Z. Evaluation of Seasonal Heat Stress on Transcriptomic Profiles and Global DNA Methylation of Bovine Oocytes. Front Genet 2021; 12:699920. [PMID: 34777457 PMCID: PMC8585773 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2021.699920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Heat stress affects oocyte developmental competence and is a major cause of reduced fertility in heat stressed cattle. Negative effects of heat stress on the oocyte have been observed at morphological, biochemical and developmental levels. However, the mechanisms by which heat stress affects the oocyte at the transcriptional and epigenetic levels remain to be further elucidated. Here we aimed to investigate the effect of heat stress on oocyte quality, transcriptomic profiles and DNA methylation of oocytes collected through the transition from spring to summer under Louisiana conditions. Summer season resulted in a lower number of high quality oocytes obtained compared to the spring season. There was no difference in in vitro maturation rates of oocytes collected during spring as compared to summer. RNA sequencing analysis showed that a total of 211 and 92 genes were differentially expressed as a result of heat stress in GV and MII oocytes, respectively. Five common genes (E2F8, GATAD2B, BHLHE41, FBXO44, and RAB39B) were significantly affected by heat in both GV and MII oocytes. A number of pathways were also influenced by heat stress including glucocorticoid biosynthesis, apoptosis signaling, and HIPPO signaling in GV oocytes, and Oct4 pluripotency, Wnt/beta-catenin signaling, and melatonin degradation I in MII oocytes. In addition, fluorescent immunocytochemistry analysis showed no difference in global levels of DNA methylation and DNA hydroxymethylation at either the GV or MII stage between spring and summer oocytes. The results of this study contribute to a better understanding of the effect of heat stress on the molecular mechanisms altered in bovine oocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabian A Diaz
- School of Animal Sciences, AgCenter, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA, United States
| | | | - Brittany A Foster
- School of Animal Sciences, AgCenter, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA, United States
| | - Paige T Hardin
- School of Animal Sciences, AgCenter, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA, United States
| | - Kenneth R Bondioli
- School of Animal Sciences, AgCenter, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA, United States
| | - Zongliang Jiang
- School of Animal Sciences, AgCenter, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA, United States
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Lipid Metabolism in Bovine Oocytes and Early Embryos under In Vivo, In Vitro, and Stress Conditions. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22073421. [PMID: 33810351 PMCID: PMC8038040 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22073421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2021] [Revised: 03/21/2021] [Accepted: 03/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Lipids are a potential reservoir of energy for initial embryonic development before activation of the embryonic genome and are involved in plasma membrane biosynthesis. Excessive lipid droplet formation is detrimental to cryotolerance and is related to alterations in mitochondrial function, which likely affects lipid metabolism. Increased lipid accumulation in in vitro produced embryos is a consequence of the stress during in vitro embryonic development process. There are several open questions concerning embryo lipid metabolism and developmental potential. Oocyte maturation and embryo development in vivo and in vitro may vary if the donors are subjected to any type of stress before follicle puncture because crucial changes in oocyte/embryonic metabolism occur in response to stress. However, little is known about lipid metabolism under additional stress (such as heat stress). Therefore, in this review, we aimed to update the information regarding the energy metabolism of oocytes and early bovine embryos exhibiting developmental competence, focusing on lipid metabolic pathways observed under in vivo, in vitro, and stress conditions.
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Rowinski JR, Rispoli LA, Payton RR, Schneider LG, Schrick FN, McLean KJ, Edwards JL. Impact of an acute heat shock during in vitro maturation on interleukin 6 and its associated receptor component transcripts in bovine cumulus-oocyte complexes. Anim Reprod 2021; 17:e20200221. [PMID: 33936291 PMCID: PMC8081495 DOI: 10.1590/1984-3143-ar2020-0221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
An acute heat stress event after the LH surge increased interleukin 6 (IL6) levels in the follicular fluid of the ovulatory follicle in hyperthermic cows. To examine direct consequences of a physiologically-relevant elevated temperature (41.0°C) on the cumulus-oocyte complex (COC), IL6 transcript abundance and related receptor components were evaluated throughout in vitro maturation. Heat-induced increases in IL6 were first noted at 4 hours of in vitro maturation (hIVM); peak levels occurred at 4.67 versus 6.44 hIVM for 41.0 and 38.5°C COCs, respectively (SEM = 0.23; P < 0.001). Peak IL6ST levels occurred at 6.95 versus 8.29 hIVM for 41.0 and 38.5°C, respectively (SEM = 0.23; P < 0.01). Transcript for LIF differed over time (P < 0.0001) but was not affected by 41.0°C exposure. Blastocyst development after performing IVF was not affected by 41.0°C exposure for 4 or 6 h. When limiting analysis to when IL6 was temporally produced, progesterone levels were only impacted by time and temperature (no interaction). Heat-induced shift in the temporal production of IL6 and IL6ST along with its impact on progesterone likely cooperate in heat-induced hastening of meiotic progression described by others.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia R Rowinski
- Department of Animal Science, The University of Tennessee, Institute of Agriculture, AgResearch, Knoxville, TN, USA
| | - Louisa A Rispoli
- Department of Animal Science, The University of Tennessee, Institute of Agriculture, AgResearch, Knoxville, TN, USA.,Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Rebecca R Payton
- Department of Animal Science, The University of Tennessee, Institute of Agriculture, AgResearch, Knoxville, TN, USA
| | - Liesel G Schneider
- Department of Animal Science, The University of Tennessee, Institute of Agriculture, AgResearch, Knoxville, TN, USA
| | - F Neal Schrick
- Department of Animal Science, The University of Tennessee, Institute of Agriculture, AgResearch, Knoxville, TN, USA
| | - Kyle J McLean
- Department of Animal Science, The University of Tennessee, Institute of Agriculture, AgResearch, Knoxville, TN, USA
| | - J Lannett Edwards
- Department of Animal Science, The University of Tennessee, Institute of Agriculture, AgResearch, Knoxville, TN, USA
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10
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Roth Z. Heat stress reduces maturation and developmental capacity in bovine oocytes. Reprod Fertil Dev 2021; 33:66-75. [PMID: 38769677 DOI: 10.1071/rd20213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
The ovarian pool of follicles, and their enclosed oocytes, is highly sensitive to hyperthermia. Heat-induced changes in small antral follicles can later manifest as impaired follicle development and compromised competence of the enclosed oocytes to undergo maturation, fertilisation and further development into an embryo. This review describes the main changes documented so far that underlie the oocyte damage. The review discusses some cellular and molecular mechanisms by which heat stress compromises oocyte developmental competence, such as impairment of nuclear and cytoplasmic maturation and mitochondrial function, changes in the expression of both nuclear and mitochondrial transcripts and the induction of apoptosis. The review emphasises that although the oocyte is exposed to heat stress, changes are also evident in the developed embryo. Moreover, the effect of heat stress is not limited to the summer; it carries over to the cold autumn, as manifest by impaired steroid production, low oocyte competence and reduced fertility. The spontaneous recovery of oocytes from the end of the summer through the autumn until the beginning of winter suggests that only subpopulations of follicles, rather than the entire ovarian reserve, are damaged upon heat exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zvi Roth
- Department of Animal Sciences, Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University, POB 12 Rehovot, 76100, Israel
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11
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Abdelnour SA, Yang CY, Swelum AA, Abd El-Hack ME, Khafaga AF, Abdo M, Shang JH, Lu YQ. Molecular, functional, and cellular alterations of oocytes and cumulus cells induced by heat stress and shock in animals. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2020; 27:38472-38490. [PMID: 32767010 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-020-10302-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Global warming is considered as the main environmental stress affecting ecosystems as well as physiological and biochemical characteristics, and survivability of living organisms. High temperature induces various stresses and causes reduction of fertility through reducing the oocyte developmental competence and alteration in surrounding cells' functions. This causes major economic loss to livestock creating a selective pressure on animals to the advantage of better adapted genotypes and to the detriment of others. In this review, a search in Science Direct, Google Scholar, PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and SID databases until 2020 was conducted. Keywords which include heat stress, shock, high temperature, oocyte, cumulus, and animals were investigated. Studies have exhibited that heat stress can disturb the development and function of oocyte and cumulus cells (CCs) concerning reproductive efficiency. Heat stress has deleterious consequences on oocyte maturation and development via reduced number of polar body extrusion, adenosine monophosphate, and guanosine monophosphate synthesis. Heat stress caused the alteration of cytoplasmic and nuclear features as well as trans-zonal projections and gap junctions. In addition, heat stress is accompanied with reduced mitochondrial activity (copy mDNA number, distribution, and membrane potential) in cumulus-oocyte complexes. This review targets the description of results in the most recent studies that aimed to call attention to the influences of heat stress on molecular, functional, and cellular changes in oocytes and CCs in animals to design evidence on the acting mechanisms as the core of this problem from a comparative review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sameh A Abdelnour
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, Guangxi, China
- Key Laboratory of Buffalo Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction Technology, Guangxi Buffalo Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanning, 530001, People's Republic of China
- Animal Production Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Zagazig University, Zagazig, 44511, Egypt
| | - Chun-Yan Yang
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, Guangxi, China
- Key Laboratory of Buffalo Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction Technology, Guangxi Buffalo Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanning, 530001, People's Republic of China
| | - Ayman A Swelum
- Department of Animal Production, College of Food and Agricultural Sciences, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2460, Riyadh, 11451, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, 44511, Egypt
| | - Mohamed E Abd El-Hack
- Department of Poultry, Faculty of Agriculture, Zagazig University, Zagazig, 44511, Egypt
| | - Asmaa F Khafaga
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Alexandria University, Edfina, 22758, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Abdo
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sadat City, Sadat City, 32897, Egypt
| | - Jiang-Hua Shang
- Key Laboratory of Buffalo Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction Technology, Guangxi Buffalo Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanning, 530001, People's Republic of China.
| | - Yang-Qing Lu
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, Guangxi, China.
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12
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Pöhland R, Souza-Cácares MB, Datta TK, Vanselow J, Martins MIM, da Silva WAL, Cardoso CJT, Melo-Sterza FDA. Influence of long-term thermal stress on the
in vitro maturation on embryo development and Heat Shock Protein abundance in zebu cattle. Anim Reprod 2020; 17:e20190085. [PMID: 33029207 PMCID: PMC7534571 DOI: 10.1590/1984-3143-ar2019-0085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The objective of this study was to investigate the influence of long-term temperature stress during the in vitro maturation (IVM) of oocytes on the in vitro embryo production (IVP) and the abundance of HSP70 and HSP90 in zebu cattle. Viable cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) were incubated for 24 h at 37 °C, 38.5 °C, or 40 °C for the low-, physiological, and high-temperature stress treatments, respectively. Thereafter, they were subjected to in vitro fertilization and culture. Temperature did not affect the polar body extrusion. However, IVP was adversely affected when IVM took place at 37 °C and 40 °C. The highest abundance of HSP70 was observed in cumulus cells after maturation of COCs at 40 °C. In contrast, HSP70 was more abundant in oocytes at both 37 °C and 40 °C; however, at 40 °C, the difference to the control group (38.5 °C) was not significant. In contrast, the highest abundance of HSP90 was observed in oocytes and cumulus cells at 37 °C. It appears that HSP70 and HSP90 respond to cold and heat stress in different ways. In conclusion, moderately high (40 °C) and low (37 °C) thermal stress for 24 h during IVM is detrimental to the developmental competence of oocyte and is accompanied by changes in the abundances of HSP70 and HSP90, especially in cumulus cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ralf Pöhland
- Institute of Reproductive Biology, Leibniz Institute for Farm Animal Biology, Dummerstorf, Germany
| | | | - Tirtha Kumar Datta
- National Dairy Research Institute, Animal Biotechnology Centre, Karnal, Haryana, India
| | - Jens Vanselow
- Institute of Reproductive Biology, Leibniz Institute for Farm Animal Biology, Dummerstorf, Germany
| | | | | | | | - Fabiana de Andrade Melo-Sterza
- Institute of Reproductive Biology, Leibniz Institute for Farm Animal Biology, Dummerstorf, Germany.,Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciências Veterinárias, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande, MS, Brasil.,Programa de Pós-graduação em Zootecnia, Universidade Estadual de Mato Grosso do Sul, Aquidauana, MS, Brasil
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13
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Khan A, Khan MZ, Dou J, Umer S, Xu H, Sammad A, Zhu HB, Wang Y. RNAi-Mediated Silencing of Catalase Gene Promotes Apoptosis and Impairs Proliferation of Bovine Granulosa Cells under Heat Stress. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:E1060. [PMID: 32575551 PMCID: PMC7341290 DOI: 10.3390/ani10061060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2020] [Revised: 06/15/2020] [Accepted: 06/16/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Heat stress in dairy cattle is recognized to compromise fertility by altering the functions of ovarian follicle-enclosed cells, e.g., oocyte and granulosa cells (GCs). Catalase is an antioxidant enzyme that plays a significant role in cellular protection against oxidative damage by the degradation of hydrogen peroxide to oxygen and water. In this study, the role and mechanism of CAT on the heat stress (HS)-induced apoptosis and altered proliferation of bovine GCs were studied. The catalase gene was knocked-down successfully in bovine GCs at both the transcriptional and translational levels. After a successful knockdown using siRNA, GCs were divided into HS (40 °C + NC and 40 °C + CAT siRNA) and 38 °C + NC (NC) groups. The GCs were then examined for ROS, viability, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), cell cycle, and biosynthesis of progesterone (P4) and estrogen (E2) hormones. The results indicated that CAT silencing promoted ROS production and apoptosis by up-regulating the Bcl-2-associated X protein (BAX) and Caspase-3 genes both at the transcriptional and translational levels. Furthermore, the knockdown of CAT markedly disrupted the MMP, impaired the production of P4 and E2, altered the progression of the G1 phase of the cell cycle, and decreased the number of cells in the S phase. This was further verified by the down-regulation of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), CyclinB1, steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (STAR), and cytochrome P450 family 11 subfamily A member 1 (Cyp11A1) genes. Our study presented a novel strategy to characterize how CAT can regulate cell proliferation and apoptosis in GCs under HS. We concluded that CAT is a broad regulatory marker in GCs by regulating apoptosis, cellular progression, and simultaneously by vital fluctuations in hormonal signaling. Our findings infer a crucial evidence of how to boost the fertility of heat-stressed cows.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adnan Khan
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, MARA, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China; (A.K.); (M.Z.K.); (J.D.); (A.S.)
| | - Muhammad Zahoor Khan
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, MARA, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China; (A.K.); (M.Z.K.); (J.D.); (A.S.)
| | - Jinhuan Dou
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, MARA, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China; (A.K.); (M.Z.K.); (J.D.); (A.S.)
| | - Saqib Umer
- Embryo Biotechnology and Reproduction Laboratory, Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China; (S.U.); (H.X.); (H.-B.Z.)
| | - Huitao Xu
- Embryo Biotechnology and Reproduction Laboratory, Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China; (S.U.); (H.X.); (H.-B.Z.)
| | - Abdul Sammad
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, MARA, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China; (A.K.); (M.Z.K.); (J.D.); (A.S.)
| | - Hua-Bin Zhu
- Embryo Biotechnology and Reproduction Laboratory, Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China; (S.U.); (H.X.); (H.-B.Z.)
| | - Yachun Wang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, MARA, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China; (A.K.); (M.Z.K.); (J.D.); (A.S.)
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14
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Heat stress impairs in vitro development of preantral follicles of cattle. Anim Reprod Sci 2020; 213:106277. [PMID: 31987328 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2020.106277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2019] [Revised: 11/23/2019] [Accepted: 01/07/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Although detrimental effects of heat stress on antral follicle development have been well studied, long-term effects - affecting the preantral follicle pool - are still largely unknown. The goal of this study was to evaluate effects of heat stress on growth, viability, gene expression and ATP production of preantral follicles of cattle. Follicles at the primary, early secondary and secondary stages were isolated from cattle ovaries and individually cultured while imposing physiological (CON; 38.5 °C) or intermittent heat stress (HS; 38.5 °C for 16 h and 41 °C for 8 h daily) conditions for 7 days. Individual follicles were subjected to real-time qPCR for determination of relative abundance of BAX, HSPA1A and SOD1 mRNA transcripts and evaluated for ATP production. Treatment for 7 days with intermittent HS decreased viability (P = 0.01) and diameter (P = 0.03) of preantral follicles. Relative abundances of BAX and HSPA1A mRNA transcripts were greater in follicles of the CON and HS groups that became non-viable during culture (P < 0.05); relative abundance of SOD1 mRNA transcript, however, was only greater in non-viable follicles of the HS group (P < 0.05), but not non-viable follicles of the CON group (P = 0.3). The ATP production was not different between viable follicles of the CON and HS group (P = 0.86). In conclusion, all stages of growing preantral follicles of cattle were susceptible to negative effects of heat stress. Follicles at the secondary stage of development were most sensitive, followed by early secondary and primary follicles.
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15
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Yin C, Liu J, He B, Jia L, Gong Y, Guo H, Zhao R. Heat stress induces distinct responses in porcine cumulus cells and oocytes associated with disrupted gap junction and trans-zonal projection colocalization. J Cell Physiol 2018; 234:4787-4798. [PMID: 30341896 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.27277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2018] [Accepted: 07/26/2018] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Cumulus cells (CCs), the granulosa cells surrounding the oocytes, play critical roles in oocytes maturation through intercellular communication by extending trans-zonal projections (TZPs) to contact oocytes via gap junctions (GJs). The adverse effect of heat stress (HS) on oocyte maturation has been well documented, whereas the HS responses of CCs and the oocytes in association with GJ/TZP colocalization remain unclear. In this study, porcine cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) were subjected to HS at 41.5°C for 24 hr during in vitro maturation. Cumulus expansion was impaired and oocyte quality was reduced with lower survival rate, polar body extrusion rate, and early embryo developmental potentials. CCs and oocytes isolated from COCs demonstrated distinct responses to HS. The messenger RNA abundance of heat shock protein-related genes and mitochondrial DNA-encoded genes, together with ATP content, were significantly increased in CCs, yet decreased in oocytes, despite activation of caspase 3 detected in both CCs and oocytes. Similar changes were observed when denuded oocytes and isolated CCs subjected to HS separately, except mitochondria reactive oxygen species (mROS). In heat-stressed COCs, mROS was significantly increased only in oocytes. However, when isolated CCs and denuded oocytes were heat-stressed separately, mROS was significantly increased only in CCs. Moreover, F-actin, a TZP marker, and its colocalization with a GJ protein connexin-45, were significantly reduced in heat-exposed COCs. These results indicate that HS induces distinct responses in porcine CCs and oocytes in association with disrupted GJ and TZP colocalization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Yin
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health & Food Safety, College of Veterinary Science, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology and Biochemistry, Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Science, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jie Liu
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health & Food Safety, College of Veterinary Science, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology and Biochemistry, Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Science, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Bin He
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health & Food Safety, College of Veterinary Science, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology and Biochemistry, Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Science, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Longfei Jia
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health & Food Safety, College of Veterinary Science, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology and Biochemistry, Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Science, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yabin Gong
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health & Food Safety, College of Veterinary Science, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology and Biochemistry, Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Science, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Huiduo Guo
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health & Food Safety, College of Veterinary Science, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology and Biochemistry, Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Science, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ruqian Zhao
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health & Food Safety, College of Veterinary Science, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology and Biochemistry, Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Science, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
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16
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Campen KA, Abbott CR, Rispoli LA, Payton RR, Saxton AM, Edwards JL. Heat stress impairs gap junction communication and cumulus function of bovine oocytes. J Reprod Dev 2018; 64:385-392. [PMID: 29937465 PMCID: PMC6189573 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2018-029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The intimate association of cumulus cells with one another and with the oocyte is important for regulating oocyte meiotic arrest and resumption. The objective of this study was to determine
the effects of heat stress on cumulus cell communication and functions that may be related to accelerated oocyte meiosis during early maturation. Bovine cumulus-oocyte complexes underwent
in vitro maturation for up to 6 h at thermoneutral control (38.5°C) or elevated (40.0, 41.0 or 42.0°C) temperatures. Gap junction communication between the cumulus cells
and the oocyte was assessed using the fluorescent dye calcein after 4 h of in vitro maturation. Dye transfer was reduced in cumulus-oocyte complexes matured at 41.0°C or
42.0°C; transfer at 40.0°C was similar to control (P < 0.0001). Subsequent staining of oocytes with Hoechst revealed that oocytes matured at 41.0 or 42.0°C contained chromatin at more
advanced stages of condensation. Maturation of cumulus-oocyte complexes at elevated temperatures reduced levels of active 5’ adenosine monophosphate activated kinase (P = 0.03). Heat stress
exposure had no effect on active extracellular-regulated kinase 1/2 in oocytes (P = 0.67), associated cumulus cells (P = 0.60) or intact cumulus-oocyte complexes (P = 0.44). Heat-induced
increases in progesterone production by cumulus-oocyte complexes were detected during the first 6 h of maturation (P = 0.001). Heat-induced alterations in gap junction communication and
other cumulus-cell functions likely cooperate to accelerate bovine oocyte meiotic progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly A Campen
- Department of Animal Science, The University of Tennessee, Institute of Agriculture, AgResearch, Knoxville, TN 37996-4574, USA
| | - Chelsea R Abbott
- Department of Animal Science, The University of Tennessee, Institute of Agriculture, AgResearch, Knoxville, TN 37996-4574, USA
| | - Louisa A Rispoli
- Department of Animal Science, The University of Tennessee, Institute of Agriculture, AgResearch, Knoxville, TN 37996-4574, USA
| | - Rebecca R Payton
- Department of Animal Science, The University of Tennessee, Institute of Agriculture, AgResearch, Knoxville, TN 37996-4574, USA
| | - Arnold M Saxton
- Department of Animal Science, The University of Tennessee, Institute of Agriculture, AgResearch, Knoxville, TN 37996-4574, USA
| | - J Lannett Edwards
- Department of Animal Science, The University of Tennessee, Institute of Agriculture, AgResearch, Knoxville, TN 37996-4574, USA
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17
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Payton RR, Rispoli LA, Nagle KA, Gondro C, Saxton AM, Voy BH, Edwards JL. Mitochondrial-related consequences of heat stress exposure during bovine oocyte maturation persist in early embryo development. J Reprod Dev 2018; 64:243-251. [PMID: 29553057 PMCID: PMC6021609 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2017-160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2017] [Accepted: 03/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Hyperthermia during estrus has direct consequences on the maturing oocyte that carries over to the resultant embryo to compromise its ability to continue in development. Because early embryonic development is reliant upon maternal transcripts and other ooplasmic components, we examined impact of heat stress on bovine oocyte transcripts using microarray. Oocytes were matured at 38.5ºC for 24 h or 41.0ºC for the first 12 h of in vitro maturation; 38.5ºC thereafter. Transcriptome profile was performed on total (adenylated + deadenylated) RNA and polyadenylated mRNA populations. Heat stress exposure altered the abundance of several transcripts important for mitochondrial function. The extent to which transcript differences are coincident with functional changes was evaluated by examining reactive oxygen species, ATP content, and glutathione levels. Mitochondrial reactive oxygen species levels were increased by 6 h exposure to 41.0ºC while cytoplasmic levels were reduced compared to controls (P < 0.0001). Exposure to 41.0ºC for 12 h increased total and reduced glutathione levels in oocytes at 12 h but reduced them by 24 h (time × temperature P < 0.001). ATP content was higher in heat-stressed oocytes at 24 h (P < 0.0001). Heat-induced increases in ATP content of matured oocytes persisted in early cleavage-stage embryos (8- to 16-cell embryos; P < 0.05) but were no longer apparent in blastocysts (P > 0.05). Collectively, results indicate that direct exposure of maturing oocytes to heat stress may alter oocyte mitochondrial processes/function, which is inherited by the early embryo after fertilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca R Payton
- Department of Animal Science, The University of Tennessee, Institute of Agriculture, AgResearch, Knoxville, TN, USA
| | - Louisa A Rispoli
- Department of Animal Science, The University of Tennessee, Institute of Agriculture, AgResearch, Knoxville, TN, USA
| | - Kimberly A Nagle
- Department of Animal Science, The University of Tennessee, Institute of Agriculture, AgResearch, Knoxville, TN, USA
| | - Cedric Gondro
- Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Arnold M Saxton
- Department of Animal Science, The University of Tennessee, Institute of Agriculture, AgResearch, Knoxville, TN, USA
| | - Brynn H Voy
- Department of Animal Science, The University of Tennessee, Institute of Agriculture, AgResearch, Knoxville, TN, USA
| | - J Lannett Edwards
- Department of Animal Science, The University of Tennessee, Institute of Agriculture, AgResearch, Knoxville, TN, USA
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18
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Pereira M, Wiltbank M, Guida T, Lopes F, Vasconcelos J. Comparison of 2 protocols to increase circulating progesterone concentration before timed artificial insemination in lactating dairy cows with or without elevated body temperature. J Dairy Sci 2017; 100:8455-8470. [DOI: 10.3168/jds.2016-12145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2016] [Accepted: 06/08/2017] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
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19
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Abstract
Summer heat stress decreases the pregnancy rate in cattle and has been thought to be associated with the early embryonic death caused by the elevation of maternal body temperature. In vitro cultures have been widely used for the evaluation of effects of heat stress on oocytes, fertilization, preimplantation, and embryonic development. Susceptibility to heat stress is present in developmental stages from oocytes to cleavage-stage (before embryonic gene activation, EGA) embryos, leading to a consequent decrease in developmental competence. On the other hand, advanced-stage embryos such as morula or blastocysts have acquired thermotolerance. The mechanism for the developmental stage-dependent change in thermotolerance is considered to be the accumulation of antioxidants in embryos in response to heat-inducible production of reactive oxygen species. The supplementation of antioxidants to the culture media has been known to neutralize the detrimental effects of heat stress. Besides, EGA could be involved in acquisition of thermotolerance in later stages of embryos. Morulae or blastocysts can repair heat-induced unfolded proteins or prevent DNA damage occurring in processes such as apoptosis. Therefore, embryo transfer (ET) that can bypass the heat-sensitive stage could be a good solution to improve the pregnancy rate under heat stress. However, frozen-thawed ET could not improve the pregnancy rate as expected. Frozen-thawed blastocysts were more sensitive to heat stress and showed less proliferation upon heat exposure, compared to fresh blastocysts. Therefore, further research is required to improve the reduction in pregnancy rates due to summer heat stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miki Sakatani
- Livestock and Grassland Research Division, Kyushu Okinawa Agricultural Research Center, NARO, Kumamoto 861-1192, Japan
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20
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Liang S, Guo J, Choi JW, Kim NH, Cui XS. Effect and possible mechanisms of melatonin treatment on the quality and developmental potential of aged bovine oocytes. Reprod Fertil Dev 2017; 29:1821-1831. [DOI: 10.1071/rd16223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2016] [Accepted: 09/27/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
After reaching the metaphase II (MII) stage, unfertilised oocytes undergo a time-dependent process of quality deterioration referred to as oocyte aging. The associated morphological and cellular changes lead to decreased oocyte developmental potential. This study investigated the effect of exogenous melatonin supplementation on in vitro aged bovine oocytes and explored its underlying mechanisms. The levels of cytoplasmic reactive oxygen species and DNA damage response in bovine oocytes increased during in vitro aging. Meanwhile, maturation promoting factor activity significantly decreased and the proportion of morphologically abnormal oocytes significantly increased. Melatonin supplementation significantly decreased quality deterioration in aged bovine MII oocytes (P < 0.05). Additionally, it decreased the frequency of aberrant spindle organisation and cortical granule release during oocyte aging (P < 0.05). In the melatonin-supplemented group, mitochondrial membrane potential and ATP production were significantly increased compared with control. Furthermore, melatonin treatment significantly increased the speed of development of bovine oocytes to the blastocyst stage after in vitro fertilisation and significantly decreased the apoptotic rate in the blastocysts (P < 0.05). The expression of Bax and Casp3 in the blastocysts was significantly reduced after treatment with melatonin, whereas expression of Bcl2 significantly increased (P < 0.05). In conclusion, these findings suggest that supplementation of aged bovine oocytes with exogenous melatonin improves oocyte quality, thereby enhancing the developmental capacity of early embryos.
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