1
|
Shu C, Yu Y, Xiaopan Chen, Guo J, Zhou Y, Wu D, Yang T, Fan Y, Huang Q, Shu J. Three-dimensional architecture of granulosa cell derived from oocyte cumulus complex, revealed by FIB-SEM. J Ovarian Res 2023; 16:213. [PMID: 37946316 PMCID: PMC10633969 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-023-01298-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The oocyte cumulus complex is mainly composed of an oocyte, the perivitelline space, zona pellucida and numerous granulosa cells. The cumulus granulosa cells (cGCs) provide a particularly important microenvironment for oocyte development, regulating its growth, maturation and meiosis. In this study, we studied the internal structures and cell-to-cell connections of mouse cGCs using focused ion beam scanning electron microscopy (FIB-SEM). We reconstructed three-dimensional models to display characteristic connections between the oocyte and cGCs, and to illustrate various main organelles in cGCs together with their interaction relationship. A special form of cilium identified in granulosa cell was never reported in previous literature.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chongyi Shu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, China
| | - Yiqi Yu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiaopan Chen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, China
- Department of Genetic and Genomic Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, (Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, China
| | - Jiansheng Guo
- School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Yier Zhou
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, China
| | - Dandan Wu
- Department of Obstetrics, Zhejiang Hospital, Hangzhou, 310012, China
| | - Tianyun Yang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, China
| | - Yuhang Fan
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, China
| | - Qiongxiao Huang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, China.
| | - Jing Shu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Potential Development of Vitrified Immature Human Oocytes: Influence of the Culture Medium and the Timing of Vitrification. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 24:ijms24010417. [PMID: 36613863 PMCID: PMC9820260 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24010417] [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: 10/28/2022] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
How does the in vitro maturation (IVM) medium and the vitrification procedure affect the survival of germinal vesicle (GV) oocytes obtained from stimulated cycles and their development to the blastocyst stage? In total, 1085 GV human oocytes were obtained after women underwent a cycle of controlled ovarian stimulation, and these oocytes were subjected to IVM before or after their vitrification. IVM was carried out in two commercial culture media not specifically designed for maturation. MII oocytes were then activated and embryo development until day 6 was evaluated. According to the results, a higher percentage of oocytes reach the MII stage if they are vitrified before they undergo IVM. Nevertheless, the medium used and the sample size determine whether these differences become significant or not. Similar survival rates and development to blastocysts were observed in all the conditions studied.
Collapse
|
3
|
Hao X, Phoon J, Barbunopulos L, Sheikhi M, Palomares AR, Rodriguez-Wallberg KA. Exploring the Developmental Potential of Human Germinal Vesicle Oocytes Aiming at Fertility Preservation: Can We Increase the Yields of Competent Oocytes through IVM Combined with Vitrification? J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11061703. [PMID: 35330028 PMCID: PMC8949370 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11061703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Revised: 03/11/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The rescue in vitro maturation (rIVM) of germinal vesicle oocytes (GVs) has been proposed to improve the total number of mature oocytes in women undergoing fertility preservation. Currently, there is no consensus about the clinical utility of this practice, and heterogeneity in the protocols used may influence the final outcomes. This study investigated the developmental potential of mature metaphase II (MII) human oocytes obtained from GVs after rIVM and the impact of applying vitrification at different timepoints either before or after rIVM. After randomization, oocytes were assigned to undergo rIVM and thereafter vitrification or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), or to undergo direct vitrification-warming and thereafter rIVM and ICSI. The likelihood of obtaining MII oocytes was just slightly higher in the fresh rIVM group compared to the vitrification-warming-rIVM group. When comparing fresh rIVM that underwent subsequently ICSI, the fertilization and developmental rates up to the blastocyst stage were seen to be reduced in both groups that underwent vitrification either before or after rIVM. Although some blastocysts were obtained in the fresh rIVM-ICSI group, the efficacy of these methods was low overall, suggesting that the further development of protocols for IVM conducted early after denudation is needed to improve the final results of rIVM aiming at fertility preservation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xia Hao
- Department of Oncology and Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, Solna, SE-171 76 Stockholm, Sweden;
- Laboratory of Translational Fertility Preservation, BioClinicum, SE-171 64 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jessie Phoon
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Division of Gynecology and Reproduction, Karolinska University Hospital, Novumhuset Plan 4, SE-141 86 Stockholm, Sweden; (J.P.); (L.B.); (M.S.)
| | - Lina Barbunopulos
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Division of Gynecology and Reproduction, Karolinska University Hospital, Novumhuset Plan 4, SE-141 86 Stockholm, Sweden; (J.P.); (L.B.); (M.S.)
| | - Mona Sheikhi
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Division of Gynecology and Reproduction, Karolinska University Hospital, Novumhuset Plan 4, SE-141 86 Stockholm, Sweden; (J.P.); (L.B.); (M.S.)
| | - Arturo Reyes Palomares
- Department of Oncology and Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, Solna, SE-171 76 Stockholm, Sweden;
- Laboratory of Translational Fertility Preservation, BioClinicum, SE-171 64 Stockholm, Sweden
- Correspondence: (A.R.P.); (K.A.R.-W.)
| | - Kenny A. Rodriguez-Wallberg
- Department of Oncology and Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, Solna, SE-171 76 Stockholm, Sweden;
- Laboratory of Translational Fertility Preservation, BioClinicum, SE-171 64 Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Division of Gynecology and Reproduction, Karolinska University Hospital, Novumhuset Plan 4, SE-141 86 Stockholm, Sweden; (J.P.); (L.B.); (M.S.)
- Correspondence: (A.R.P.); (K.A.R.-W.)
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Ghasemian F, Esmaeilnezhad S. Comparison of Metformin, Clomiphene Citrate, and Flutamide Effects on Quality and Ultrastructure Status of the Oocyte, and Embryo Development in a PCOS-mouse Model. Reprod Biomed Online 2022; 45:191-201. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2022.03.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2021] [Revised: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/18/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
|
5
|
Amer EI, El-Azzouni MZ, El-Bannan RT, Shalaby TI, El-Achy SN, Gomaa MM. Schistosomiasis mansoni: A new therapeutic target for ubiquinol, a natural inhibitor of neutral magnesium-dependent sphingomyelinase in murine model. Acta Trop 2022; 226:106231. [PMID: 34785184 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2021.106231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2021] [Revised: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
Constituting the host-parasite interface and playing a censorious role in host immune response modulation and parasite survival, tegument represents a crucial target for many antischistosomal drugs. Sphingomyelin forms a stable outer leaflet of tegumental membrane-lipid bilayer. Neutral magnesium-dependent sphingomyelinase (Mg2+-nSMase) is a key enzyme in sphingomyelin breakdown was identified in schistosomes. We investigated the in vivo efficacy of ubiquinol, a natural inhibitor of Mg2+-nSMase, in free and niosomes-encapsulated forms, through five-day and 15-day regimens on the early and late Schistosoma mansoni parasitic stages, respectively, compared to PZQ. Oral administration of 300 mg/kg/day ubiquinol-encapsulated niosomes (U-N) showed significant deterioration of the parasitic growth and development in the term of reduction of lung schistosomula burden (39.12%), adult worm burden (50.81%), hepatic and intestinal tissue-egg counts (80.89% and 75.54%, respectively). PZQ and free ubiquinol regimens reported reductions in lung schistosomula counts (45.36% and 22.90%, respectively) and total worm burdens of 86.28% and 24.58%, respectively. U-N therapy revealed worms de-pairing and remarkable diminution in female worms' perimeters and fecundity. Scanning electron microscope revealed disruption of tegumental ridges with excessive longitudinal corrugation. Transmission electron microscope showed testicular and ovarian parenchymal degeneration, signs of immaturity and cell apoptosis. Indirect immunofluorescence assay approved parasite's tegumental changes. Remarkable reduction of granulomas size with amelioration of hepatic pathology and fibrosis were assumed to be attributed to the anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties of ubiquinol. These findings with the drug safety profile suggest that U-N could be a promising candidate for a new antischistosomal drug development.
Collapse
|
6
|
Applications of Melatonin in Female Reproduction in the Context of Oxidative Stress. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2021; 2021:6668365. [PMID: 34367465 PMCID: PMC8342146 DOI: 10.1155/2021/6668365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2020] [Revised: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 05/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Oxidative stress has been recognized as one of the causal mediators of female infertility by affecting the oocyte quality and early embryo development. Improving oxidative stress is essential for reproductive health. Melatonin, a self-secreted antioxidant, has a wide range of effects by improving mitochondrial function and reducing the damage of reactive oxygen species (ROS). This minireview illustrates the applications of melatonin in reproduction from four aspects: physiological ovarian aging, vitrification freezing, in vitro maturation (IVM), and oxidative stress homeostasis imbalance associated with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), emphasising the role of melatonin in improving the quality of oocytes in assisted reproduction and other adverse conditions.
Collapse
|
7
|
Xu F, Lawson MS, Bean Y, Ting AY, Pejovic T, De Geest K, Moffitt M, Mitalipov SM, Xu J. Matrix-free 3D culture supports human follicular development from the unilaminar to the antral stage in vitro yielding morphologically normal metaphase II oocytes. Hum Reprod 2021; 36:1326-1338. [PMID: 33681988 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deab003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2020] [Revised: 12/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Can group culture with stage-specific anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) modulation support human follicular development and oocyte maturation in vitro? SUMMARY ANSWER In the presence of FSH, AMH supplementation at the secondary-to-early antral stage followed by AMH depletion promotes the coordinated growth and function of human follicles during group culture, thereby yielding mature oocytes. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Stage-specific AMH modulation promotes in-vitro development of nonhuman primate follicles. The group culture method supports nonhuman primate follicle growth from the primary to antral stage, producing developmentally competent oocytes. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Ovarian tissue samples were collected from 19 patients of reproductive age (22-47 years old having menstrual cycles) who underwent oophorectomy or hysterectomy for clinical purposes. Tissue pieces were cultured in a matrix-free system for 3 weeks followed by isolation of follicles for the subsequent 6-week individual or group culture. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Pieces of ovarian cortical tissue were cultured to support primordial follicle activation and early-stage follicle growth. Secondary follicles isolated from cultured tissue were then randomly assigned to two groups for individual culture: control and AMH modulation, i.e., recombinant human AMH protein supplementation during the secondary-to-early antral stage followed by the addition of neutralizing anti-human AMH antibody. Secondary follicles were also cultured in groups with the same AMH modulation. Follicle survival, growth, steroid hormone and paracrine factor production, steroidogenic protein expression, as well as oocyte maturation and morphology were assessed. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Follicles grew to the secondary stage during 3 weeks of ovarian tissue culture. In-vitro-developed follicles expressed AMH and levels of secreted AMH increased (P < 0.05) in the culture media over time. Secondary follicles isolated from cultured ovarian tissue survived and grew to the antral stage during 6 weeks of individual follicle culture. In-vitro-developed antral follicles produced granulosa and theca cell-derived steroid hormones and paracrine factors, which were detectable in the culture media. Germinal vesicle oocytes obtained from cultured follicles exhibited a perinucleolar chromatin rim configuration. AMH modulation did not alter follicle survival or oocyte maturation relative to those of the control follicles. However, follicle diameters, as well as steroid hormone and paracrine factor production, increased (P < 0.05) in the AMH-modulation group compared with the control group. Secondary follicles isolated from cultured ovarian tissue formed aggregates and grew to the antral stage during 6 weeks of group culture. In-vitro-developed antral follicles expressed steroidogenic enzymes and secreted steroid hormones were detectable in the culture media. Oocytes obtained from cultured follicle aggregates with AMH-modulation progressed to the metaphase II stage after IVM, containing a normal-sized first polar body and meiotic spindle. Oocytes exhibited a typical ultrastructure. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Follicles were obtained from fresh ovarian tissue of adult patients. Oocyte maturation rates were relatively low and oocytes were assessed by morphological evaluation. Owing to the lack of a control group, the beneficial effects of AMH modulation remained undetermined for the group culture in this study. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Stage-specific AMH modulation supports human follicular development in the matrix-free group culture, which is consistent with previously reported AMH actions on growing follicles in nonhuman primates. Oocytes generated by in-vitro-developed follicles achieve meiotic maturation with a typical morphology and ultrastructure, which supports in-vitro follicle maturation as a potential approach for fertility preservation in women. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) NICHD R01HD082208 and NIH Office of the Director P51OD011092. The authors have no competing interest to declare. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fuhua Xu
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA
| | - Maralee S Lawson
- Division of Reproductive & Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Beaverton, OR 97006, USA
| | - Yukie Bean
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA
| | - Alison Y Ting
- Division of Reproductive & Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Beaverton, OR 97006, USA
| | - Tanja Pejovic
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA
| | - Koen De Geest
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA
| | - Melissa Moffitt
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA
| | - Shoukhrat M Mitalipov
- Division of Reproductive & Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Beaverton, OR 97006, USA.,Center for Embryonic Cell and Gene Therapy, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA
| | - Jing Xu
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA.,Division of Reproductive & Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Beaverton, OR 97006, USA.,Center for Embryonic Cell and Gene Therapy, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Peinado I, Moya I, Sáez-Espinosa P, Barrera M, García-Valverde L, Francés R, Torres P, Gómez-Torres MJ. Impact of Maturation and Vitrification Time of Human GV Oocytes on the Metaphase Plate Configuration. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22031125. [PMID: 33498768 PMCID: PMC7865957 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22031125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Revised: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The combination of in vitro maturation (IVM) techniques and oocyte vitrification (OV) could increase the number of useful oocytes in different types of patients. IVM and subsequent OV is the most widely used clinical strategy. Would the results improve if we reverse the order of the techniques? Here, we evaluated survival, in vitro maturation, time to extrude the first polar body (PB), and the metaphase plate configuration of human prophase I (GV) oocytes before or after their vitrification. Specific, 195 GV oocytes from 104 patients subjected to controlled ovarian stimulation cycles were included. We stablished three experimental groups: GV oocytes vitrified and IVM (Group GV-Vit), GV oocytes IVM and vitrified at MII stage (Group MII-Vit), and GV oocytes IVM (Group not-Vit). All of them were in vitro matured for a maximum of 48 h and fixed to study the metaphase plate by confocal microscopy. According to our results, the vitrification of immature oocytes and their subsequent maturation presented similar survival, maturation, and metaphase plate conformation rates, but a significantly higher percentage of normal spindle than the standard strategy. Additionally, the extension of IVM time to 48 h did not seem to negatively affect the oocyte metaphase plate configuration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Irene Peinado
- Assisted Human Reproduction Unit, La Fe University and Polytechnic Hospital, 46026 Valencia, Spain; (I.P.); (I.M.); (M.B.); (L.G.-V.); (R.F.); (P.T.)
| | - Isabel Moya
- Assisted Human Reproduction Unit, La Fe University and Polytechnic Hospital, 46026 Valencia, Spain; (I.P.); (I.M.); (M.B.); (L.G.-V.); (R.F.); (P.T.)
| | | | - Macarena Barrera
- Assisted Human Reproduction Unit, La Fe University and Polytechnic Hospital, 46026 Valencia, Spain; (I.P.); (I.M.); (M.B.); (L.G.-V.); (R.F.); (P.T.)
- Biotechnology Department, Alicante University, 03690 Alicante, Spain;
| | - Laura García-Valverde
- Assisted Human Reproduction Unit, La Fe University and Polytechnic Hospital, 46026 Valencia, Spain; (I.P.); (I.M.); (M.B.); (L.G.-V.); (R.F.); (P.T.)
- Biotechnology Department, Alicante University, 03690 Alicante, Spain;
| | - Raquel Francés
- Assisted Human Reproduction Unit, La Fe University and Polytechnic Hospital, 46026 Valencia, Spain; (I.P.); (I.M.); (M.B.); (L.G.-V.); (R.F.); (P.T.)
- Energy and Memory, Brain Plasticity Unit, CNRS, ESPCI Paris, PSL Research University, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Patricia Torres
- Assisted Human Reproduction Unit, La Fe University and Polytechnic Hospital, 46026 Valencia, Spain; (I.P.); (I.M.); (M.B.); (L.G.-V.); (R.F.); (P.T.)
| | - María José Gómez-Torres
- Biotechnology Department, Alicante University, 03690 Alicante, Spain;
- Cátedra Human Fertility, Universidad de Alicante, 03690 Alicante, Spain
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Trebichalská Z, Kyjovská D, Kloudová S, Otevřel P, Hampl A, Holubcová Z. Cytoplasmic maturation in human oocytes: an ultrastructural study †. Biol Reprod 2020; 104:106-116. [PMID: 33404651 PMCID: PMC7786262 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioaa174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Revised: 09/07/2020] [Accepted: 09/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Female fertility relies on successful egg development. Besides chromosome segregation, complex structural and biochemical changes in the cytoplasmic compartment are necessary to confer the female gamete the capacity to undergo normal fertilization and sustain embryonic development. Despite the profound impact on egg quality, morphological bases of cytoplasmic maturation remain largely unknown. Here, we report our findings from the ultrastructural analysis of 69 unfertilized human oocytes from 34 young and healthy egg donors. By comparison of samples fixed at three consecutive developmental stages, we explored how ooplasmic architecture changes during meiotic maturation in vitro. The morphometric image analysis supported observation that the major reorganization of cytoplasm occurs before polar body extrusion. The organelles initially concentrated around prophase nucleus were repositioned toward the periphery and evenly distributed throughout the ooplasm. As maturation progressed, distinct secretory apparatus appeared to transform into cortical granules that clustered underneath the oocyte's surface. The most prominent feature was the gradual formation of heterologous complexes composed of variable elements of endoplasmic reticulum and multiple mitochondria with primitive morphology. Based on the generated image dataset, we proposed a morphological map of cytoplasmic maturation, which may serve as a reference for future comparative studies. In conclusion, this work improves our understanding of human oocyte morphology, cytoplasmic maturation, and intracellular factors defining human egg quality. Although this analysis involved spare oocytes completing development in vitro, it provides essential insight into the enigmatic process by which human egg progenitors prepare for fertilization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Z Trebichalská
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - D Kyjovská
- Reprofit International, Clinic of Reproductive Medicine, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - S Kloudová
- Reprofit International, Clinic of Reproductive Medicine, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - P Otevřel
- Reprofit International, Clinic of Reproductive Medicine, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - A Hampl
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Z Holubcová
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic.,Reprofit International, Clinic of Reproductive Medicine, Brno, Czech Republic
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Ravi RT, Leung MR, Zeev-Ben-Mordehai T. Looking back and looking forward: contributions of electron microscopy to the structural cell biology of gametes and fertilization. Open Biol 2020; 10:200186. [PMID: 32931719 PMCID: PMC7536082 DOI: 10.1098/rsob.200186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2020] [Accepted: 08/25/2020] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Mammalian gametes-the sperm and the egg-represent opposite extremes of cellular organization and scale. Studying the ultrastructure of gametes is crucial to understanding their interactions, and how to manipulate them in order to either encourage or prevent their union. Here, we survey the prominent electron microscopy (EM) techniques, with an emphasis on considerations for applying them to study mammalian gametes. We review how conventional EM has provided significant insight into gamete ultrastructure, but also how the harsh sample preparation methods required preclude understanding at a truly molecular level. We present recent advancements in cryo-electron tomography that provide an opportunity to image cells in a near-native state and at unprecedented levels of detail. New and emerging cellular EM techniques are poised to rekindle exploration of fundamental questions in mammalian reproduction, especially phenomena that involve complex membrane remodelling and protein reorganization. These methods will also allow novel lines of enquiry into problems of practical significance, such as investigating unexplained causes of human infertility and improving assisted reproductive technologies for biodiversity conservation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ravi Teja Ravi
- Cryo-Electron Microscopy, Bijvoet Centre for Biomolecular Research, Utrecht University, 3584CH Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Miguel Ricardo Leung
- Cryo-Electron Microscopy, Bijvoet Centre for Biomolecular Research, Utrecht University, 3584CH Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Division of Structural Biology, Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, The University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7BN, UK
| | - Tzviya Zeev-Ben-Mordehai
- Cryo-Electron Microscopy, Bijvoet Centre for Biomolecular Research, Utrecht University, 3584CH Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Division of Structural Biology, Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, The University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7BN, UK
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Hatırnaz Ş, Ata B, Hatırnaz ES, Dahan MH, Tannus S, Tan J, Tan SL. Oocyte in vitro maturation: A sytematic review. Turk J Obstet Gynecol 2018; 15:112-125. [PMID: 29971189 PMCID: PMC6022428 DOI: 10.4274/tjod.23911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2018] [Accepted: 04/26/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
In vitro maturation (IVM) is one of the most controversial aspects of assisted reproductive technology. Although it has been studied extensively, it is still not a conventional treatment option and is accepted as an alternative treatment. However, studies have shown that IVM can be used in almost all areas where in vitro fertilization (IVF) is used and it has a strong place in fertility protection and Ovarian Hyperstimulation syndrome management. The aim of this systematic review was to address all aspects of the current knowledge of IVM treatment together with the evolution of IVM and IVF.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Şafak Hatırnaz
- Medicana International Hospital, In Vitro Fertilization Center, Samsun, Turkey
| | - Barış Ata
- Koç University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, In Vitro Fertilization Center, İstanbul, Turkey
| | | | - Michael Haim Dahan
- Mc Gill University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Quebec, Canada
| | - Samer Tannus
- Mc Gill University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Quebec, Canada
| | - Justin Tan
- Mc Gill University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Quebec, Canada
| | - Seang Lin Tan
- Originelle Women and Reproductive Medicine Center, Clinic of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Khalili MA, Shahedi A, Ashourzadeh S, Nottola SA, Macchiarelli G, Palmerini MG. Vitrification of human immature oocytes before and after in vitro maturation: a review. J Assist Reprod Genet 2017; 34:1413-1426. [PMID: 28822010 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-017-1005-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2017] [Accepted: 07/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The use of immature oocytes subjected to in vitro maturation (IVM) opens interesting perspectives for fertility preservation where ovarian reserves are damaged by pathologies or therapies, as in PCO/PCOS and cancer patients. Human oocyte cryopreservation may offer some advantages compared to embryo freezing, such as fertility preservation in women at risk of losing fertility due to oncological treatment or chronic disease, egg donation and postponing childbirth. It also eliminates religious and/or other ethical, legal, and moral concerns of embryo freezing. In addition, a successful oocyte cryopreservation program could eliminate the need for donor and recipient menstrual cycle synchronization. Recent advances in vitrification technology have markedly improved the oocyte survival rate after warming, with fertilization and implantation rates comparable with those of fresh oocytes. Healthy live births can be achieved from the combination of IVM and vitrification, even if vitrification of in vivo matured oocytes is still more effective. Recently, attention is given to highlight whether vitrification procedures are more successful when performed before or after IVM, on immature GV-stage oocytes, or on in vitro matured MII-stage oocytes. In this review, we emphasize that, even if there are no differences in survival rates between oocytes vitrified prior to or post-IVM, reduced maturation rates of immature oocytes vitrified prior to IVM can be, at least in part, explained by underlying ultrastructural and biomolecular alterations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Ali Khalili
- Research and Clinical Center for Infertility, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran.,Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Abbas Shahedi
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Sareh Ashourzadeh
- Research and Clinical Center for Infertility, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran.,Afzalipour Clinical Center for Infertility, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Stefania Annarita Nottola
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic Medicine and Orthopaedics, University of Rome La Sapienza, Rome, Italy
| | - Guido Macchiarelli
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Maria Grazia Palmerini
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|