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Sa P, Gòdia M, Lewis N, Lian Y, Clop A. Genomic, transcriptomic and epigenomic analysis towards the understanding of porcine semen quality traits. Past, current and future trends. Anim Reprod Sci 2024:107543. [PMID: 38981797 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2024.107543] [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: 05/10/2024] [Revised: 06/22/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/11/2024]
Abstract
The importance of boar reproductive traits, including semen quality, in the sustainability of pig production system is increasingly being acknowledged by academic and industrial sectors. Research is needed to understand the biology and genetic components underlying these traits so that they can be incorporated into selection schemes and managerial decisions. This article reviews our current understanding of genome biology and technologies for genome, transcriptome and epigenome analysis which now facilitate the identification of causal variants affecting phenotypes more than ever before. Genetic and transcriptomic analysis of candidate genes, Genome-Wide Association Studies, expression microarrays, RNA-Seq of coding and noncoding genes and epigenomic evaluations have been conducted to profile the molecular makeups of pig sperm. These studies have provided insightful information for a several semen-related parameters. Nonetheless, this research is still incipient. The spermatozoon harbors a reduced transcriptome and highly modified epigenome, and it is assumed to be transcriptionally silent for nuclear gene expression. For this reason, the extent to which the sperm's RNA and epigenome recapitulate sperm biology and function is unclear. Hence, we anticipate that single-cell level analyses of the testicle and other male reproductive organs, which can reveal active transcription and epigenomic profiles in cells influencing sperm quality, will gain popularity and markedly advance our understanding of sperm-related traits. Future research will delve deeper into sperm fertility, boar resilience to environmental changes or harsh conditions, especially in the context of global warming, and also in transgenerational inheritance and how the environment influences the sperm transcriptome and epigenome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro Sa
- Animal Breeding and Genomics, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - Marta Gòdia
- Animal Breeding and Genomics, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - Nicole Lewis
- School of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury, United Kingdom
| | - Yu Lian
- Centre for Research in Agricultural Genomics CRAG (CSIC-IRTA-UAB-UB), Cerdanyola del Vallés, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Alex Clop
- Centre for Research in Agricultural Genomics CRAG (CSIC-IRTA-UAB-UB), Cerdanyola del Vallés, Catalonia, Spain; Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain.
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2
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Ynsaurralde-Rivolta AE, Gambini A, Alberio V, Savy V, Ratner L, Guberman A, Vázquez Echegaray C, Gismondi MI, Currá A, Bevacqua R, Salamone D. In vitro developmental competence of bovine demi-embryos generated by blastomere separation and blastocyst bisection. Reprod Domest Anim 2024; 59:e14627. [PMID: 38837827 DOI: 10.1111/rda.14627] [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: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 05/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
The efficiency of bovine in vitro embryo production can be significantly improved by splitting embryos at different stages. However, the blastocyst quality of in vitro-produced demi-embryos remains unexplored. The objective of this research was to compare embryo developmental rates and quality of bovine demi-embryos produced by two different strategies: (a) embryo bisection (BSEC) and (b) 2-cell blastomere separation (BSEP). To determine demi-embryos quality, we evaluated total blastocyst cell number and proportion of SOX2+ cells. Additionally, the expression of SOX2, NANOG, OCT4, CDX2, IFNT, BAX and BCL genes and let-7a and miRNA-30c Micro RNAs was analysed. BSEP resulted in improved blastocyst development, higher ICM cells and a significantly higher expression of IFNΤ than demi-embryos produced by BSEC. Let-7a, which is associated with low pregnancy establishment was detected in BSEC, while miRNA-30c expression was observed in all treatments. In conclusion, BSEP of 2-cell embryos is more efficient to improve in vitro bovine embryo development and to produce good quality demi-embryos based on ICM cell number and the expression pattern of the genes explored compared to BSEC.
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Affiliation(s)
- A E Ynsaurralde-Rivolta
- Departamento de Producción Animal, Facultad de Agronomía, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Instituto Nacional de Tecnología Agropecuaria (INTA), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - A Gambini
- School of Agriculture and Food Sustainability, The University of Queensland, Gatton, Queensland, Australia
- School of Veterinary Science, The University of Queensland, Gatton, Queensland, Australia
| | - V Alberio
- Departamento de Producción Animal, Facultad de Agronomía, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Producción Animal (INPA), CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - V Savy
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - L Ratner
- Departamento de Producción Animal, Facultad de Agronomía, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Instituto Nacional de Tecnología Agropecuaria (INTA), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - A Guberman
- IQUIBICEN-CONICET Department of Biological Chemistry, FCEN, UBA, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - C Vázquez Echegaray
- IQUIBICEN-CONICET Department of Biological Chemistry, FCEN, UBA, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - M I Gismondi
- Instituto de Agrobiotecnología y Biología Molecular (IABIMO), Instituto Nacional de Tecnología Agropecuaria (INTA), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Tecnológicas (CONICET), Hurlingham, Argentina
| | - A Currá
- Instituto de Agrobiotecnología y Biología Molecular (IABIMO), Instituto Nacional de Tecnología Agropecuaria (INTA), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Tecnológicas (CONICET), Hurlingham, Argentina
| | - R Bevacqua
- Mount Sinai, DOMI, New York, New York, USA
| | - D Salamone
- Departamento de Producción Animal, Facultad de Agronomía, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Producción Animal (INPA), CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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3
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Iyer DP, Moyon L, Wittler L, Cheng CY, Ringeling FR, Canzar S, Marsico A, Bulut-Karslioğlu A. Combinatorial microRNA activity is essential for the transition of pluripotent cells from proliferation into dormancy. Genome Res 2024; 34:572-589. [PMID: 38719471 PMCID: PMC11146600 DOI: 10.1101/gr.278662.123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024]
Abstract
Dormancy is a key feature of stem cell function in adult tissues as well as in embryonic cells in the context of diapause. The establishment of dormancy is an active process that involves extensive transcriptional, epigenetic, and metabolic rewiring. How these processes are coordinated to successfully transition cells to the resting dormant state remains unclear. Here we show that microRNA activity, which is otherwise dispensable for preimplantation development, is essential for the adaptation of early mouse embryos to the dormant state of diapause. In particular, the pluripotent epiblast depends on miRNA activity, the absence of which results in the loss of pluripotent cells. Through the integration of high-sensitivity small RNA expression profiling of individual embryos and protein expression of miRNA targets with public data of protein-protein interactions, we constructed the miRNA-mediated regulatory network of mouse early embryos specific to diapause. We find that individual miRNAs contribute to the combinatorial regulation by the network, and the perturbation of the network compromises embryo survival in diapause. We further identified the nutrient-sensitive transcription factor TFE3 as an upstream regulator of diapause-specific miRNAs, linking cytoplasmic MTOR activity to nuclear miRNA biogenesis. Our results place miRNAs as a critical regulatory layer for the molecular rewiring of early embryos to establish dormancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dhanur P Iyer
- Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, 14195 Berlin, Germany
- Institute of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Freie Universität Berlin, 14195 Berlin, Germany
| | - Lambert Moyon
- Computational Health Center, Helmholtz Center Munich, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Lars Wittler
- Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, 14195 Berlin, Germany
| | - Chieh-Yu Cheng
- Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, 14195 Berlin, Germany
- Institute of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Freie Universität Berlin, 14195 Berlin, Germany
| | - Francisca R Ringeling
- Faculty of Informatics and Data Science, University of Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Stefan Canzar
- Faculty of Informatics and Data Science, University of Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Annalisa Marsico
- Computational Health Center, Helmholtz Center Munich, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany;
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4
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Veraguas-Dávila D, Caamaño D, Saéz-Ruiz D, Vásquez Y, Saravia F, Castro FO, Rodríguez-Alvarez L. Zona pellucida removal modifies the expression and release of specific microRNAs in domestic cat blastocysts. ZYGOTE 2023; 31:544-556. [PMID: 37724015 DOI: 10.1017/s0967199423000436] [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] [Indexed: 09/20/2023]
Abstract
The in vitro culture of domestic cat embryos without the zona pellucida affects their implantation capacity. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have an important role in embryo-maternal communication and implantation. The objective of this study was to evaluate the expression of specific miRNAs in domestic cat blastocysts cultured without the zona pellucida. Two experimental groups were done: (1) domestic cat embryos cultured with the zona pellucida (zona intact control group, ZI); and (2) cultured without the zona pellucida (zona free group, ZF). The cleavage, morula and blastocyst rates were evaluated. The blastocysts and their spent medium were used for miRNA expression analysis using RT-qPCR (miR-21, miR-24, mi25, miR-29, miR-96, miR-98, miR-103, miR-191, miR-196, miR-199, miR-130, miR-155 and miR-302). The pre-mature microRNAs (pre-miRNAs) and miRNAs were evaluated in the blastocysts and only miRNAs were evaluated in the spent medium. No differences were observed in the cleavage, morula and blastocyst rates between the ZF and ZI groups (P > 0.05). For miRNAs analysis, miR-103 and miR-191 had the most stable expression and were selected as internal controls. ZF blastocysts had a higher expression of miR-21, miR-25, miR-29 and miR-199 and a lower expression of miR-96 than their ZI counterparts (P < 0.05). Furthermore, higher levels of miR-21, miR-25 and miR-98 were detected in the spent medium of ZF blastocysts (P < 0.05). In conclusion, in vitro culture of domestic cat embryos without the zona pellucida modifies the expression of miR-21, miR-25, miR-29, miR-199 and miR-96 at the blastocyst stage and the release of miR-21, miR-25 and miR-98.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Veraguas-Dávila
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Universidad de Concepción, Chillán, Chile
- Facultad de Ciencias Agrarias y Forestales, Departamento de Ciencias Agrarias, Escuela de Medicina Veterinaria, Universidad Católica del Maule, Los Niches, Curicó, Chile
| | - Diego Caamaño
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Universidad de Concepción, Chillán, Chile
| | - Darling Saéz-Ruiz
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Universidad de Concepción, Chillán, Chile
| | - Yazmín Vásquez
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Universidad de Concepción, Chillán, Chile
| | - Fernando Saravia
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Universidad de Concepción, Chillán, Chile
| | - Fidel Ovidio Castro
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Universidad de Concepción, Chillán, Chile
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Biondic S, Petropoulos S. Evidence for Functional Roles of MicroRNAs in Lineage Specification During Mouse and Human Preimplantation Development. THE YALE JOURNAL OF BIOLOGY AND MEDICINE 2023; 96:481-494. [PMID: 38161584 PMCID: PMC10751869 DOI: 10.59249/fosi4358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Proper formation of the blastocyst, including the specification of the first embryonic cellular lineages, is required to ensure healthy embryo development and can significantly impact the success of assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs). However, the regulatory role of microRNAs in early development, particularly in the context of preimplantation lineage specification, remains largely unknown. Taking a cross-species approach, this review aims to summarize the expression dynamics and functional significance of microRNAs in the differentiation and maintenance of lineage identity in both the mouse and the human. Findings are consolidated from studies conducted using in vitro embryonic stem cell models representing the epiblast, trophectoderm, and primitive endoderm lineages (modeled by naïve embryonic stem cells, trophoblast stem cells, and extraembryonic endoderm stem cells, respectively) to provide insight on what may be occurring in the embryo. Additionally, studies directly conducted in both mouse and human embryos are discussed, emphasizing similarities to the stem cell models and the gaps in our understanding, which will hopefully lead to further investigation of these areas. By unraveling the intricate mechanisms by which microRNAs regulate the specification and maintenance of cellular lineages in the blastocyst, we can leverage this knowledge to further optimize stem cell-based models such as the blastoids, enhance embryo competence, and develop methods of non-invasive embryo selection, which can potentially increase the success rates of assisted reproductive technologies and improve the experiences of those receiving fertility treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Savana Biondic
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de
l’Université de Montréal, Axe Immunopathologie, Montréal, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, Molecular Biology Program,
Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada
| | - Sophie Petropoulos
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de
l’Université de Montréal, Axe Immunopathologie, Montréal, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, Molecular Biology Program,
Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of
Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm,
Sweden
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Konstantinidou F, Placidi M, Di Emidio G, Stuppia L, Tatone C, Gatta V, Artini PG. Maternal MicroRNA Profile Changes When LH Is Added to the Ovarian Stimulation Protocol: A Pilot Study. EPIGENOMES 2023; 7:25. [PMID: 37873810 PMCID: PMC10594432 DOI: 10.3390/epigenomes7040025] [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: 08/03/2023] [Revised: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023] Open
Abstract
While the use of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) in ovarian stimulation for in vitro fertilization (IVF) is an established practice, the use of luteinizing hormone (LH) remains debatable. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are short, endogenous, non-coding transcripts that control a variety of cellular functions, such as gonadotrophin production and follicular development. The goal of this pilot study was to investigate whether the employment of recombinant LH (rLH) in ovarian stimulation protocols results in changes in the miRNA profiles in human oocytes. Patients were divided into two groups: seven received recombinant FSH (rFSH, 225 IU), and six received rFSH (150 IU) plus rLH (75 IU). MiRNA predesigned panels and real-time PCR technology were used to analyze the oocytes retrieved from the follicular ovarian retrieval. Among the miRNAs evaluated, a series of them evidenced upregulation or downregulation in their expression in the FSH plus LH group compared to the FSH group. Considering the results obtained from the functional and network analysis, the different maternal miRNA profiles in the two groups revealed a differential modulation of pathways involved in numerous biological functions. Overall, based on the pathways associated with most of these maternal miRNAs, the presence of LH may result in a different modulation of pathways regulating survival under the control of a Tp53-related mechanism. Interestingly, among the miRNAs differentially expressed in oocytes of the two groups, we have found miRNAs already investigated at ovarian, follicular, oocyte, and embryonic levels: hsa-miR-484, hsa-miR-222, hsa-miR-520d-5p, hsa-miRNA-17, hsa-miR-548, and hsa-miR-140. Thus, investigation into the role of these miRNAs in oocyte molecular pathways may help determine how LH affects oocyte competence and eventually leads to the clinical improvement of IVF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fani Konstantinidou
- Department of Psychological Health and Territorial Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (F.K.)
- Unit of Molecular Genetics, Center for Advanced Studies and Technology (CAST), “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Martina Placidi
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (M.P.); (G.D.E.); (C.T.)
| | - Giovanna Di Emidio
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (M.P.); (G.D.E.); (C.T.)
| | - Liborio Stuppia
- Department of Psychological Health and Territorial Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (F.K.)
- Unit of Molecular Genetics, Center for Advanced Studies and Technology (CAST), “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Carla Tatone
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (M.P.); (G.D.E.); (C.T.)
| | - Valentina Gatta
- Department of Psychological Health and Territorial Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (F.K.)
- Unit of Molecular Genetics, Center for Advanced Studies and Technology (CAST), “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Paolo Giovanni Artini
- Division of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy;
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Ren J, Hu Z, Li Q, Gu S, Lan F, Wang X, Li J, Li J, Shao L, Yang N, Sun C. Temperature-induced embryonic diapause in chickens is mediated by PKC-NF-κB-IRF1 signaling. BMC Biol 2023; 21:52. [PMID: 36882743 PMCID: PMC9993608 DOI: 10.1186/s12915-023-01550-0] [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: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Embryonic diapause (dormancy) is a state of temporary arrest of embryonic development that is triggered by unfavorable conditions and serves as an evolutionary strategy to ensure reproductive survival. Unlike maternally-controlled embryonic diapause in mammals, chicken embryonic diapause is critically dependent on the environmental temperature. However, the molecular control of diapause in avian species remains largely uncharacterized. In this study, we evaluated the dynamic transcriptomic and phosphoproteomic profiles of chicken embryos in pre-diapause, diapause, and reactivated states. RESULTS Our data demonstrated a characteristic gene expression pattern in effects on cell survival-associated and stress response signaling pathways. Unlike mammalian diapause, mTOR signaling is not responsible for chicken diapause. However, cold stress responsive genes, such as IRF1, were identified as key regulators of diapause. Further in vitro investigation showed that cold stress-induced transcription of IRF1 was dependent on the PKC-NF-κB signaling pathway, providing a mechanism for proliferation arrest during diapause. Consistently, in vivo overexpression of IRF1 in diapause embryos blocked reactivation after restoration of developmental temperatures. CONCLUSIONS We concluded that embryonic diapause in chicken is characterized by proliferation arrest, which is the same with other spices. However, chicken embryonic diapause is strictly correlated with the cold stress signal and mediated by PKC-NF-κB-IRF1 signaling, which distinguish chicken diapause from the mTOR based diapause in mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junxiao Ren
- Department of Animal Genetics and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Zhengzheng Hu
- Department of Animal Genetics and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Quanlin Li
- Department of Animal Genetics and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Shuang Gu
- Department of Animal Genetics and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Fangren Lan
- Department of Animal Genetics and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Xiqiong Wang
- Department of Animal Genetics and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Jianbo Li
- Department of Animal Genetics and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Junying Li
- Department of Animal Genetics and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Liwa Shao
- Department of Animal Genetics and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Ning Yang
- Department of Animal Genetics and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China.
| | - Congjiao Sun
- Department of Animal Genetics and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China.
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Hussein AM, Balachandar N, Mathieu J, Ruohola-Baker H. Molecular Regulators of Embryonic Diapause and Cancer Diapause-like State. Cells 2022; 11:cells11192929. [PMID: 36230891 PMCID: PMC9562880 DOI: 10.3390/cells11192929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Revised: 09/13/2022] [Accepted: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Embryonic diapause is an enigmatic state of dormancy that interrupts the normally tight connection between developmental stages and time. This reproductive strategy and state of suspended development occurs in mice, bears, roe deer, and over 130 other mammals and favors the survival of newborns. Diapause arrests the embryo at the blastocyst stage, delaying the post-implantation development of the embryo. This months-long quiescence is reversible, in contrast to senescence that occurs in aging stem cells. Recent studies have revealed critical regulators of diapause. These findings are important since defects in the diapause state can cause a lack of regeneration and control of normal growth. Controlling this state may also have therapeutic applications since recent findings suggest that radiation and chemotherapy may lead some cancer cells to a protective diapause-like, reversible state. Interestingly, recent studies have shown the metabolic regulation of epigenetic modifications and the role of microRNAs in embryonic diapause. In this review, we discuss the molecular mechanism of diapause induction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdiasis M. Hussein
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
| | - Nanditaa Balachandar
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Bioengineering, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai 603203, India
| | - Julie Mathieu
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
- Department of Comparative Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
| | - Hannele Ruohola-Baker
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
- Correspondence:
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9
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Gurunathan S, Kang MH, Song H, Kim NH, Kim JH. The role of extracellular vesicles in animal reproduction and diseases. J Anim Sci Biotechnol 2022; 13:62. [PMID: 35681164 PMCID: PMC9185900 DOI: 10.1186/s40104-022-00715-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 04/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are nanosized membrane-enclosed compartments that serve as messengers in cell-to-cell communication, both in normal physiology and in pathological conditions. EVs can transfer functional proteins and genetic information to alter the phenotype and function of recipient cells, which undergo different changes that positively affect their structural and functional integrity. Biological fluids are enriched with several subpopulations of EVs, including exosomes, microvesicles (MVs), and apoptotic bodies carrying several cargoes, such as lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids. EVs associated with the reproductive system are actively involved in the regulation of different physiological events, including gamete maturation, fertilization, and embryo and fetal development. EVs can influence follicle development, oocyte maturation, embryo production, and endometrial-conceptus communication. EVs loaded with cargoes are used to diagnose various diseases, including pregnancy disorders; however, these are dependent on the type of cell of origin and pathological characteristics. EV-derived microRNAs (miRNAs) and proteins in the placenta regulate inflammatory responses and trophoblast invasion through intercellular delivery in the placental microenvironment. This review presents evidence regarding the types of extracellular vesicles, and general aspects of isolation, purification, and characterization of EVs, particularly from various types of embryos. Further, we discuss EVs as mediators and messengers in reproductive biology, the effects of EVs on placentation and pregnancy disorders, the role of EVs in animal reproduction, in the male reproductive system, and mother and embryo cross-communication. In addition, we emphasize the role of microRNAs in embryo implantation and the role of EVs in reproductive and therapeutic medicine. Finally, we discuss the future perspectives of EVs in reproductive biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sangiliyandi Gurunathan
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biotechnology, Konkuk University, Seoul, 05029, Korea
| | - Min-Hee Kang
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biotechnology, Konkuk University, Seoul, 05029, Korea
| | - Hyuk Song
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biotechnology, Konkuk University, Seoul, 05029, Korea
| | - Nam Hyung Kim
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Large Animal models for Biomedicine, Wuyi University, Jiangmen, 529020, China
| | - Jin-Hoi Kim
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biotechnology, Konkuk University, Seoul, 05029, Korea.
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10
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Esmaeilivand M, Abedelahi A, Hamdi K, Farzadi L, Goharitaban S, Fattahi A, Niknafs B. Role of miRNAs in preimplantation embryo development and their potential as embryo selection biomarkers. Reprod Fertil Dev 2022; 34:589-597. [PMID: 35440361 DOI: 10.1071/rd21274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play different roles in oocyte fertilisation, degradation of maternal transcripts, embryo development, and implantation. During in vitro fertilisation (IVF), different miRNAs are released from embryos into the spent culture media (SCM) that can potentially reflect the status of the embryo. AIMS This study is the assessment of miRNAs, which secreted in SCM during the IVF cycles can be used as noninvasive biomarkers to predict an embryo's ability to form a blastocyst, implant, and give live birth. METHODS Systematic literature search was conducted to review all recent studies about miRNAs as potential non-invasive biomarkers for selecting the best embryos in the assisted reproductive technology (ART) cycle. KEY RESULTS Studies have shown that levels of some miRNAs in the SCM have an association with the implantation potential and pregnancy outcome of the embryo. CONCLUSIONS Embryo-secreted miRNAs can be used as potential non-invasive biomarkers for selecting the best embryos in the ART cycle. Unfortunately, few human studies evaluated the association between ART outcomes and miRNAs in SCM. IMPLICATIONS This review can pave the way for further miRNAs transcriptomic studies on human embryo culture media and introducing a specific miRNA profile as a multivariable prediction model for embryo selection in IVF cycles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masoumeh Esmaeilivand
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Science, Tabriz, Iran; and Department of Reproductive Biology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Ali Abedelahi
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Kobra Hamdi
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Laya Farzadi
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Sepide Goharitaban
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Science, Tabriz, Iran; and Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Amir Fattahi
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Science, Tabriz, Iran; and Department of Reproductive Biology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; and Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Behrooz Niknafs
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Science, Tabriz, Iran; and Department of Reproductive Biology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; and Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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11
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Daneshvar M, Movahedin M, Salehi M, Noruzinia M. Alterations of miR-16, miR-let-7a and their target genes expression in human blastocysts following vitrification and re-vitrification. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2021; 19:155. [PMID: 34627262 PMCID: PMC8501585 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-021-00842-w] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 09/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Embryo cryopreservation is a widely used technique in infertility management and today is an essential part of assisted reproductive technology (ART). In some cases, re-vitrification can be applied to good quality supernumerary warmed embryos that have not been transferred in the present cycle. However, there is no study about re-vitrification impact on microRNA and gene expression in human embryos. The purpose of this study is to evaluate miR-16, miR-let7a and target genes expression in in vitro produced human blastocysts following re-vitrification.Day3 embryos obtained from ICSI cycles of fertile couples referring for family balancing program were biopsied and cultured individually. On the fourth day (post-ICSI) male ones (choices of their parents) were transferred and the females (good quality embryos) were donated for research. Donated embryos were cultured to blastocyst stage and assigned to three groups: fresh, vitrified and re-vitrification. Embryos were vitrified on Cryotech carriers. Then blastocysts of three groups were individually assessed for expression of miR-16, miR-let7a and target genes.The results showed that re-vitrification of human blastocysts did not affect the ability to re-expand in culture. In addition, significant decrease was observed in miR-16 and miR-let7a expression in re-vitrified group compared to fresh (p < 0.05). A significant upregulation of the target genes ITGβ3 and BCL-2 in re-vitrified and vitrified embryos was observed compared to the fresh group (p < 0.05). The expression of BAX as a pro-apoptotic gene showed a significant decrease in re-vitrification group comparing with the fresh one (P < 0.05).The results of this research indicated that re-vitrification of embryos changes the expression of miR-16, miR-let-7a and their target genes. These alterations include increased expression of BCl-2 and ITGβ3 genes which play important roles in embryo survival and implantation, respectively. Clinical proof of these effects requires further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Daneshvar
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mansoureh Movahedin
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Mohammad Salehi
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehrdad Noruzinia
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
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12
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van der Weijden VA, Bulut-Karslioglu A. Molecular Regulation of Paused Pluripotency in Early Mammalian Embryos and Stem Cells. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:708318. [PMID: 34386497 PMCID: PMC8353277 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.708318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 07/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The energetically costly mammalian investment in gestation and lactation requires plentiful nutritional sources and thus links the environmental conditions to reproductive success. Flexibility in adjusting developmental timing enhances chances of survival in adverse conditions. Over 130 mammalian species can reversibly pause early embryonic development by switching to a near dormant state that can be sustained for months, a phenomenon called embryonic diapause. Lineage-specific cells are retained during diapause, and they proliferate and differentiate upon activation. Studying diapause thus reveals principles of pluripotency and dormancy and is not only relevant for development, but also for regeneration and cancer. In this review, we focus on the molecular regulation of diapause in early mammalian embryos and relate it to maintenance of potency in stem cells in vitro. Diapause is established and maintained by active rewiring of the embryonic metabolome, epigenome, and gene expression in communication with maternal tissues. Herein, we particularly discuss factors required at distinct stages of diapause to induce, maintain, and terminate dormancy.
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13
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Forced Suppression of let-7a-5p in Mouse Blastocysts Improves Implantation Rate. Reprod Sci 2021; 29:1730-1737. [PMID: 34254278 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-021-00659-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Accepted: 06/10/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Embryo implantation requires appropriate communication between the blastocyst and endometrium. Recurrent implantation failure is an essential component of assisted reproductive technology. Also, miRNA-mediated gene expression impacts the implantation process, and the downregulation of some miRs, such as mmu-let-7a, improves this process. In the present study, we evaluated the effect of let-7a forced suppression on the mouse implantation rate. In total, 100 adult female mice and 10 adult male mice were included (Strain CD-1). We analysed the expression of let-7a and its potential mRNAs targets (Igf1, Il1a, Itgb3 and Tgfb1) in control, sham and antagomir-treated blastocysts using quantitative reverse transcription PCR (qRT-PCR). The control and treated blastocysts were transferred to the 20 pseudopregnant mice so that the effect of let-7a suppression on the rate of implantation could be determined. The expression level of let-7a in the treatment group was significantly downregulated (P=0.001) In contrast, no significant expression changes were observed for let-7a or mRNAs targets when the sham and control groups were compared (P>0.05). In comparison to the controls, the antagomir-treated group exhibited significantly upregulated expression levels of Igf1 (0.0167), Itgb3 (0.045) and Tgfb1 (0.0115). Additionally, the implantation rate was significantly higher in the treatment group (78%) than the control group (61%) (P=0.0098). We found that forced suppression of mmu-let-7a-5p through successful transfection of Anti-miR leads to upregulation of downstream genes, Igf1, Itgb3 and Tgfb1, which directly involved in the trophoblast-endometrium attachment and improve the implantation rate.
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14
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Aljubran F, Nothnick WB. Long non-coding RNAs in endometrial physiology and pathophysiology. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2021; 525:111190. [PMID: 33549604 PMCID: PMC7946759 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2021.111190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2020] [Revised: 12/29/2020] [Accepted: 01/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The endometrium is an essential component of the female uterus which provides the environment for pregnancy establishment and maintenance. Abnormalities of the endometrium not only lead to difficulties in establishing and maintaining pregnancy but also play a causative role in diseases of endometrial origin including endometriosis and endometrial cancer. Non-coding RNAs are proposed to play a role in regulating the genome in both normal endometrial physiology and pathophysiology. In this review, we first provide a general overview of non-coding RNAs and reproductive physiology of the endometrium. We then discuss the role on non-coding RNAs in normal endometrial physiology and pathophysiology of endometrial infertility. We then conclude with non-coding RNAs in the pathophysiology of endometriosis and endometrial cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatimah Aljubran
- Department of Molecular & Integrative Physiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA
| | - Warren B Nothnick
- Department of Molecular & Integrative Physiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA; Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA; Institute for Reproduction and Perinatal Research, Center for Reproductive Sciences, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA.
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15
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ÇEVİK M, GENÇ MD. Embryonic Diapause. MEHMET AKIF ERSOY ÜNIVERSITESI VETERINER FAKÜLTESI DERGISI 2021. [DOI: 10.24880/maeuvfd.835288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
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16
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Azizi E, Ghaffari Novin M, Naji M, Amidi F, Hosseinirad H, Shams Mofarahe Z. Effect of vitrification on biogenesis pathway and expression of development-related microRNAs in preimplantation mouse embryos. Cell Tissue Bank 2020; 22:103-114. [PMID: 33033964 DOI: 10.1007/s10561-020-09870-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2019] [Revised: 04/15/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Vitrification of embryos has been known as the most efficient cryopreservation method in assisted reproductive technology clinics. Vitrification of preimplantation embryo might be associated with altered gene expression profile and biochemical changes of vitrified embryos. Stringent regulation of gene expression in early embryonic stages is very critical for normal development. In the present study, we investigated the effect of vitrification on the canonical miRNA biogenesis pathway, and also the expression of developmental related miRNAs, in 8-cell and blastocyst mouse embryos. Although the expression pattern of the miRNA biogenesis pathway genes differed between 8-cell and blastocyst mouse embryos, vitrification did not affect the expression level of these genes in preimplantation embryos. The expression levels of miR-21 and let-7a were significantly decreased in vitrified 8-cell embryos and fresh blastocysts when compared with fresh 8-cell embryos. The expression of Stat3 was significantly reduced in blastocysts after vitrification. The alteration in the expression pattern of miRNAs, due to their mode of action, can affect broad downstream key developmental signaling pathways. Therefore, the blastocyst stage is the preferred point for embryo vitrification as they are less susceptible to cryo-damages regarding the stability of miRNAs related to the developmental and implantation competence of embryo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elham Azizi
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Marefat Ghaffari Novin
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Infertility and Reproductive Health Research Center (IRHRC), Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Naji
- Urology and Nephrology Research Center (UNRC), Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fardin Amidi
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hossein Hosseinirad
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Shams Mofarahe
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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17
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Liu WM, Cheng RR, Niu ZR, Chen AC, Ma MY, Li T, Chiu PC, Pang RT, Lee YL, Ou JP, Yao YQ, Yeung WSB. Let-7 derived from endometrial extracellular vesicles is an important inducer of embryonic diapause in mice. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2020; 6:eaaz7070. [PMID: 32917695 PMCID: PMC11206465 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.aaz7070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2019] [Accepted: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Embryonic diapause is a maternally controlled phenomenon. The molecule controlling the onset of the phenomenon is unknown. We demonstrated that overexpression of microRNA let-7a or incubation with let-7g-enriched extracellular vesicles from endometrial epithelial cells prolonged the in vitro survival of mouse blastocysts, which developed into live pups after having been transferred to foster mothers. Similar to in vivo dormant blastocysts, let-7-induced dormant blastocysts exhibited low level of proliferation, apoptosis, and nutrient metabolism. Let-7 suppressed c-myc/mTORC1 and mTORC2 signaling to induce embryonic diapause. It also inhibited ODC1 expression reducing biosynthesis of polyamines, which are known to reactivate dormant embryos. Furthermore, the overexpression of let-7 blocked trophoblast differentiation and implantation potential of human embryo surrogates, and prolonged survival of human blastocysts in vitro, supporting the idea that embryonic diapause was an evolutionary conserved phenomenon. In conclusion, let-7 is the main factor inducing embryonic diapause.
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Affiliation(s)
- W M Liu
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, 1, Haiyuan 1st Road, Futian District, Shenzhen, Guangdong, P.R. China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, P.R. China
| | - R R Cheng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, P.R. China
| | - Z R Niu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, P.R. China
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, P.R. China
| | - A C Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, P.R. China
| | - M Y Ma
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, General Hospital of Chinese People's Liberation Army, Beijing 100853, P.R. China
| | - T Li
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, No. 600 Tianhe Road, Tianhe District, Guangzhou P.R. China
| | - P C Chiu
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, 1, Haiyuan 1st Road, Futian District, Shenzhen, Guangdong, P.R. China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, P.R. China
| | - R T Pang
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, 1, Haiyuan 1st Road, Futian District, Shenzhen, Guangdong, P.R. China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, P.R. China
| | - Y L Lee
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, 1, Haiyuan 1st Road, Futian District, Shenzhen, Guangdong, P.R. China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, P.R. China
| | - J P Ou
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, No. 600 Tianhe Road, Tianhe District, Guangzhou P.R. China
| | - Y Q Yao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, General Hospital of Chinese People's Liberation Army, Beijing 100853, P.R. China
| | - W S B Yeung
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, 1, Haiyuan 1st Road, Futian District, Shenzhen, Guangdong, P.R. China.
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, P.R. China
- University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Institute of Research and Innovation, Key Laboratory Platform Building, Shenzhen Virtual University Park, No. 6, Yuexing 2nd Road, Shenzhen 518057, P.R. China
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18
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Garwain O, Pearce KM, Jackson L, Carley S, Rosati B, Scarlata S. Stimulation of the Gαq/phospholipase Cβ1 signaling pathway returns differentiated cells to a stem-like state. FASEB J 2020; 34:12663-12676. [PMID: 32761888 DOI: 10.1096/fj.201902668r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2019] [Revised: 06/29/2020] [Accepted: 07/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Phospholipase Cβ1 is activated by Gαq to generate calcium signals in response to hormones and neurotransmitters. Besides carrying out this plasma membrane function, PLCβ1 has a cytosolic population that helps to drive the differentiation of PC12 cells by inhibiting a nuclease that promotes RNA-induced silencing (C3PO). Here, we show that down-regulating PLCβ1 or reducing its cytosolic population by activating Gαq to localize it to the plasma membrane returns differentiated PC12 and SK-N-SH cells to an undifferentiated state. In this state, PC12 cells have a spherical morphology, resume proliferation, and express the stem cell transcription factors nanog and Oct4. Similar changes are seen when C3PO is down-regulated. This return to a stem-like state is accompanied by shifts in multiple miR populations. Surprisingly, de-differentiation can be induced by extended stimulation of Gαq where cells return to a spherical morphology and levels of specific miRs return to their undifferentiated values. In complementary studies, we followed the real-time hydrolysis of a fluorescent-tagged miR in cells where PLCβ1 or C3PO were down-regulated in PC12 cells and find substantial differences in miR processing in the undifferentiated and differentiated states. Taken together, our studies suggest that PLCβ1, through its ability to regulate C3PO and endogenous miR populations, mediates the differentiation of two types of cultured neuronal cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Osama Garwain
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Katherine M Pearce
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Lela Jackson
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Samuel Carley
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Barbara Rosati
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Suzanne Scarlata
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Worcester, MA, USA
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19
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Li Q, Shi J, Liu W. The role of Wnt/β-catenin-lin28a/let-7 axis in embryo implantation competency and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Cell Commun Signal 2020; 18:108. [PMID: 32650795 PMCID: PMC7353806 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-020-00562-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2020] [Accepted: 03/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The pre-implantation embryo in a competent status and post-implantation fully differentiation of the inner cell mass (ICM) and trophectoderm (TE) are prerequisites of successful implantation. Type I embryonic epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) involves in these processes. A high level of the mir-let-7 family was found in the dormant mouse embryo of implantation failure in our previous study. Besides, its natural inhibitor lin28a was found to function in maintained stem cell pluripotency and involved in early embryo nucleolus construction. Until now, few studies got involved in the exact molecular mechanism that affects embryo implantation potential. In this study, the possible function of Wnt/β-catenin-lin28a/let-7 pathway in mouse embryo implantation was studied. Methods ICR mouse, Lin28a/Let-7 g transgenic mice (Lin28a-TG/Let-7 g-TG), and implanting dormant mice models were used for the study. Results Wnt/β-catenin signaling is essential in embryo implantation, which promotes embryo implantation through directly trigger lin28a expression, thus represses the mir-let-7 family. Lin28a and mir-let-7 both participate in implantation via an inverse function. Lin28a and mir-let-7 participate in embryo implantation through embryonic EMT. Conclusions Wnt/β-catenin signaling promotes embryo implantation and accompanying embryonic EMT, which is mediated by directly activate lin28a/let-7 axis. Video abstract
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Laboratory Block, The University of Hong Kong, 21 Sassoon Road, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, SAR, China.,Assisted Reproductive Center, Women & Children's Hospital of Northwest China, 73 Hou zai Road, Xi'an, China
| | - Juanzi Shi
- Assisted Reproductive Center, Women & Children's Hospital of Northwest China, 73 Hou zai Road, Xi'an, China
| | - Weimin Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Laboratory Block, The University of Hong Kong, 21 Sassoon Road, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, SAR, China.
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20
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Hosseini S, Hosseini S, Salehi M. Upregulation of Toll-like receptor 4 through anti-miR-Let-7a enhances blastocyst attachment to endometrial cells in mice. J Cell Physiol 2020; 235:9752-9762. [PMID: 32415675 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.29787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2019] [Revised: 05/01/2020] [Accepted: 05/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Despite encouraging advances in fertility technology, the success rate of an ongoing pregnancy is relatively low and predominantly associated with implantation failure. Inflammatory responses are beneficial in the fetomaternal interface and supposedly accelerate the chances for successful implantation. The current study aims to determine the effect of Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) overexpression in mouse blastocysts via Let-7a downregulation using intracytoplasmic sperm injection-sperm-mediated gene transfer on embryo attachment rate. The pLenti-III-GFP-miR-Off-Let-7a vector was transmitted to oocytes derived via in vitro maturation (IVM) and in vivo oocytes by using NaOH-treated spermatozoa. Let-7a and TLR4 expression levels were evaluated by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), immunocytochemistry, and western blot analysis in both oocytes and embryos. Blastocyst adhesion on the endometrial cells was monitored by microscopic analysis. qRT-PCR results showed that Let-7a expression decreased in the IVM (GV-MII) oocytes compared to the in vivo oocyte (MII) group (p < .05). TLR4 showed a higher expression in GV-MII oocytes at both the gene and protein levels (p < .05). Following anti-miR-Let-7a transmission, the TLR4 expression level was significantly upregulated in embryos compared with the control groups (p < .05). Attachment and migration of trophoblasts cells towards endometrial cells dramatically increased compared to the control group (p < .05). Based on our results, we concluded that Let-7a might mediate embryo attachment through regulation of TLR4 expression levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Hosseini
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Samaneh Hosseini
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Salehi
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Biotechnology, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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21
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He D, Zeng H, Chen J, Xiao L, Zhao Y, Liu N. H19 regulates trophoblastic spheroid adhesion by competitively binding to let-7. Reproduction 2020; 157:423-430. [PMID: 30780128 PMCID: PMC6433002 DOI: 10.1530/rep-18-0339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2018] [Accepted: 02/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Integrin β3 (ITGB3), which is the target gene of the miRNA let-7 that can be antagonized by long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) H19, is well known to have a critical role in endometrium receptivity. However, the regulation of ITGB3 in cell–cell or cell–extracellular matrix adhesion and invasion for the maintenance of early pregnancy remains unknown. This study aimed to explore the role of the H19/let-7/ITGB3 axis in regulating trophoblastic spheroid adhesion and in vitro invasion ability using the HTR-8/SVneo cell line and to investigate the expression levels of lncRNA H19 and ITGB3 in human products of conception. The in vitro knockdown of H19 resulted in decreased expression of ITGB3 at the mRNA and protein levels and reduced the adhesion and invasion ability. In the embryonic chorion tissue of spontaneous abortion (SA), the expressions of H19 and ITGB3 at both the mRNA and protein levels decreased. The results of quantitative RT-PCR, Western blot analysis, dual-luciferase report gene and functional miRNA let-7 rescue experiments, adhesion assay and in vitro transwell invasion assay confirmed that H19 regulated trophoblastic spheroid adhesion with endometrial stromal cells through the H19/let-7/ITGB3 axis, thereby providing an improved understanding of the molecular mechanism of SA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongmei He
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Hong Zeng
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jingfei Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Lan Xiao
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Yuhao Zhao
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Nenghui Liu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
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22
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Regulation of human trophoblast surrogate Jeg-3 spheroids implantation potential by Wnt/β-catenin pathway and lin28a/let-7a axis. Exp Cell Res 2020; 388:111718. [DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2019.111718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2019] [Revised: 11/04/2019] [Accepted: 11/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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23
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Hussein AM, Wang Y, Mathieu J, Margaretha L, Song C, Jones DC, Cavanaugh C, Miklas JW, Mahen E, Showalter MR, Ruzzo WL, Fiehn O, Ware CB, Blau CA, Ruohola-Baker H. Metabolic Control over mTOR-Dependent Diapause-like State. Dev Cell 2020; 52:236-250.e7. [PMID: 31991105 DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel.2019.12.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2018] [Revised: 09/13/2019] [Accepted: 12/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Regulation of embryonic diapause, dormancy that interrupts the tight connection between developmental stage and time, is still poorly understood. Here, we characterize the transcriptional and metabolite profiles of mouse diapause embryos and identify unique gene expression and metabolic signatures with activated lipolysis, glycolysis, and metabolic pathways regulated by AMPK. Lipolysis is increased due to mTORC2 repression, increasing fatty acids to support cell survival. We further show that starvation in pre-implantation ICM-derived mouse ESCs induces a reversible dormant state, transcriptionally mimicking the in vivo diapause stage. During starvation, Lkb1, an upstream kinase of AMPK, represses mTOR, which induces a reversible glycolytic and epigenetically H4K16Ac-negative, diapause-like state. Diapause furthermore activates expression of glutamine transporters SLC38A1/2. We show by genetic and small molecule inhibitors that glutamine transporters are essential for the H4K16Ac-negative, diapause state. These data suggest that mTORC1/2 inhibition, regulated by amino acid levels, is causal for diapause metabolism and epigenetic state.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdiasis M Hussein
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
| | - Yuliang Wang
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109, USA; Paul G. Allen School of Computer Science & Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Julie Mathieu
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109, USA; Department of Comparative Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Lilyana Margaretha
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109, USA; Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
| | - Chaozhong Song
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109, USA; Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Daniel C Jones
- Paul G. Allen School of Computer Science & Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Christopher Cavanaugh
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109, USA; Department of Comparative Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Jason W Miklas
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109, USA; Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Elisabeth Mahen
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109, USA; Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Megan R Showalter
- West Coast Metabolomics Center, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Walter L Ruzzo
- Paul G. Allen School of Computer Science & Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Department of Genome Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
| | - Oliver Fiehn
- West Coast Metabolomics Center, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Carol B Ware
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109, USA; Department of Comparative Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - C Anthony Blau
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109, USA; Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Hannele Ruohola-Baker
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109, USA; Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Department of Genome Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA.
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24
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Salilew-Wondim D, Gebremedhn S, Hoelker M, Tholen E, Hailay T, Tesfaye D. The Role of MicroRNAs in Mammalian Fertility: From Gametogenesis to Embryo Implantation. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21020585. [PMID: 31963271 PMCID: PMC7014195 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21020585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2019] [Revised: 01/09/2020] [Accepted: 01/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The genetic codes inscribed during two key developmental processes, namely gametogenesis and embryogenesis, are believed to determine subsequent development and survival of adult life. Once the embryo is formed, its further development mainly depends on its intrinsic characteristics, maternal environment (the endometrial receptivity), and the embryo–maternal interactions established during each phase of development. These developmental processes are under strict genetic regulation that could be manifested temporally and spatially depending on the physiological and developmental status of the cell. MicroRNAs (miRNAs), one of the small non-coding classes of RNAs, approximately 19–22 nucleotides in length, are one of the candidates for post-transcriptional developmental regulators. These tiny non-coding RNAs are expressed in ovarian tissue, granulosa cells, testis, oocytes, follicular fluid, and embryos and are implicated in diverse biological processes such as cell-to-cell communication. Moreover, accumulated evidences have also highlighted that miRNAs can be released into the extracellular environment through different mechanisms facilitating intercellular communication. Therefore, understanding miRNAs mediated regulatory mechanisms during gametogenesis and embryogenesis provides further insights about the molecular mechanisms underlying oocyte/sperm formation, early embryo development, and implantation. Thus, this review highlights the role of miRNAs in mammalian gametogenesis and embryogenesis and summarizes recent findings about miRNA-mediated post-transcriptional regulatory mechanisms occurring during early mammalian development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dessie Salilew-Wondim
- Institute of Animal Sciences, Animal Breeding and Husbandry, University of Bonn, Endenicher Allee 15, 53115 Bonn, Germany; (D.S.-W.); (M.H.); (E.T.); (T.H.)
| | - Samuel Gebremedhn
- Animal Reproduction and Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, 1351 Rampart Rd, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA;
| | - Michael Hoelker
- Institute of Animal Sciences, Animal Breeding and Husbandry, University of Bonn, Endenicher Allee 15, 53115 Bonn, Germany; (D.S.-W.); (M.H.); (E.T.); (T.H.)
- Teaching and Research Station Frankenforst, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Bonn, 53639 Königswinter, Germany
| | - Ernst Tholen
- Institute of Animal Sciences, Animal Breeding and Husbandry, University of Bonn, Endenicher Allee 15, 53115 Bonn, Germany; (D.S.-W.); (M.H.); (E.T.); (T.H.)
| | - Tsige Hailay
- Institute of Animal Sciences, Animal Breeding and Husbandry, University of Bonn, Endenicher Allee 15, 53115 Bonn, Germany; (D.S.-W.); (M.H.); (E.T.); (T.H.)
| | - Dawit Tesfaye
- Animal Reproduction and Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, 1351 Rampart Rd, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-530-564-2806
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25
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Amniotic microvesicles impact hatching and pregnancy percentages of in vitro bovine embryos and blastocyst microRNA expression versus in vivo controls. Sci Rep 2020; 10:501. [PMID: 31949175 PMCID: PMC6965648 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-57060-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2019] [Accepted: 12/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Embryo development and implantation are dynamic processes, responsive to external signals, and can potentially be influenced by many environmental factors. The aims of this study were to evaluate the effects of a culture medium supplemented with amniotic-derived microvesicles (MVs) on in vitro embryo hatching after cryopreservation, and pregnancy rate following embryo transfer. In addition, miRNA profiling of blastocysts produced in vitro, with or without (control; CTR) amniotic MV supplementation, was also evaluated using blastocysts produced in vivo. In vitro embryos were cultured with and without amniotic MV supplementation. In vivo blastocysts were obtained from superovulated cows. Samples for RNA isolation were obtained from three pools of 10 embryos each (in vivo, in vitro-CTR and in vitro + MVs). Our results show that the hatching percentage of cryopreserved in vitro + MVs embryos is higher (P < 0.05) than in vitro-CTR embryos and the pregnancy rate with fresh and cryopreserved in vitro + MVs embryos is higher than in vitro-CTR embryos. In addition, the analysis of differently expressed (DE) microRNAs showed that embryos produced in vivo are clearly different from those produced in vitro. Moreover, in vitro-CTR and in vitro + MVs embryos differ significantly for expression of two miRNAs that were found in higher concentrations in in vitro-CTR embryos. Interestingly, these two miRNAs were also reported in degenerated bovine embryos compared to good quality blastocysts. In conclusion, MV addition during in vitro production of embryos seems to counteract the adverse effect of in vitro culture and partially modulate the expression of specific miRNAs involved in successful embryo implantation.
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26
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Li Q, Liu W, Chiu PCN, Yeung WSB. Mir-let-7a/g Enhances Uterine Receptivity via Suppressing Wnt/β-Catenin Under the Modulation of Ovarian Hormones. Reprod Sci 2020; 27:1164-1174. [PMID: 31942710 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-019-00115-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2019] [Accepted: 10/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Microarray has indicated a huge number of miRNAs exist in reproductive tissues and cells. Moreover, the expression of miRNA in the reproductive system varies under the strict monitoring of different regulations. To understand the role of miRNA-mediated post-transcriptional gene regulation in female reproduction, we investigated the level and function of a mir-let-7 family member in both mice and human uterine receptivity. As we observed, mir-let-7 a/g had a higher expression in mouse and human receptive uterine epithelium; the level of mir-let-7a was under the inverse regulation of estrogen and progesterone; upregulated mir-let-7a/g in mouse and human uterine epithelium increased uterine receptivity, thus improved implantation-related embryo attachment and outgrowth ability; the let-7a/g enhanced uterine receptivity through suppressing canonical Wnt signaling. In summary, our findings suggest that mir-let-7 a/g increases uterine receptivity via inhibiting Wnt signaling and under the modulation of ovarian hormones.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Weimin Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China. .,Centre of Reproduction, Development of Growth, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.
| | - Philip C N Chiu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.,Centre of Reproduction, Development of Growth, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - William S B Yeung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.,Centre of Reproduction, Development of Growth, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
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27
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Kong S, Zhou C, Bao H, Ni Z, Liu M, He B, Huang L, Sun Y, Wang H, Lu J. Epigenetic control of embryo-uterine crosstalk at peri-implantation. Cell Mol Life Sci 2019; 76:4813-4828. [PMID: 31352535 PMCID: PMC11105790 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-019-03245-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2018] [Revised: 06/28/2019] [Accepted: 07/23/2019] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Embryo implantation is one of the pivotal steps during mammalian pregnancy, since the quality of embryo implantation determines the outcome of ongoing pregnancy and fetal development. A large number of factors, including transcription factors, signalling transduction components, and lipids, have been shown to be indispensable for embryo implantation. Increasing evidence also suggests the important roles of epigenetic factors in this critical event. This review focuses on recent findings about the involvement of epigenetic regulators during embryo implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuangbo Kong
- Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361003, Fujian, People's Republic of China
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, Fujian, People's Republic of China
| | - Chan Zhou
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, Fujian, People's Republic of China
| | - Haili Bao
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, Fujian, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhangli Ni
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, Fujian, People's Republic of China
| | - Mengying Liu
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, Fujian, People's Republic of China
| | - Bo He
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, Fujian, People's Republic of China
| | - Lin Huang
- Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361003, Fujian, People's Republic of China
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, Fujian, People's Republic of China
| | - Yang Sun
- Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361003, Fujian, People's Republic of China
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, Fujian, People's Republic of China
| | - Haibin Wang
- Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361003, Fujian, People's Republic of China.
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, Fujian, People's Republic of China.
| | - Jinhua Lu
- Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361003, Fujian, People's Republic of China.
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, Fujian, People's Republic of China.
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28
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Wang Y, Hussein AM, Somasundaram L, Sankar R, Detraux D, Mathieu J, Ruohola-Baker H. microRNAs Regulating Human and Mouse Naïve Pluripotency. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:E5864. [PMID: 31766734 PMCID: PMC6929104 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20235864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2019] [Revised: 11/07/2019] [Accepted: 11/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
microRNAs are ~22bp nucleotide non-coding RNAs that play important roles in the post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression. Many studies have established that microRNAs are important for cell fate choices, including the naïve to primed pluripotency state transitions, and their intermediate state, the developmentally suspended diapause state in early development. However, the full extent of microRNAs associated with these stage transitions in human and mouse remain under-explored. By meta-analysis of microRNA-seq, RNA-seq, and metabolomics datasets from human and mouse, we found a set of microRNAs, and importantly, their experimentally validated target genes that show consistent changes in naïve to primed transitions (microRNA up, target genes down, or vice versa). The targets of these microRNAs regulate developmental pathways (e.g., the Hedgehog-pathway), primary cilium, and remodeling of metabolic processes (oxidative phosphorylation, fatty acid metabolism, and amino acid transport) during the transition. Importantly, we identified 115 microRNAs that significantly change in the same direction in naïve to primed transitions in both human and mouse, many of which are novel candidate regulators of pluripotency. Furthermore, we identified 38 microRNAs and 274 target genes that may be involved in diapause, where embryonic development is temporarily suspended prior to implantation to uterus. The upregulated target genes suggest that microRNAs activate stress response in the diapause stage. In conclusion, we provide a comprehensive resource of microRNAs and their target genes involved in naïve to primed transition and in the paused intermediate, the embryonic diapause stage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuliang Wang
- Paul G. Allen School of Computer Science & Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109, USA; (A.M.H.); (L.S.); (R.S.); (D.D.)
| | - Abdiasis M. Hussein
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109, USA; (A.M.H.); (L.S.); (R.S.); (D.D.)
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Logeshwaran Somasundaram
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109, USA; (A.M.H.); (L.S.); (R.S.); (D.D.)
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Rithika Sankar
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109, USA; (A.M.H.); (L.S.); (R.S.); (D.D.)
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Damien Detraux
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109, USA; (A.M.H.); (L.S.); (R.S.); (D.D.)
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
- Department of Comparative Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Julie Mathieu
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109, USA; (A.M.H.); (L.S.); (R.S.); (D.D.)
- Department of Comparative Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Hannele Ruohola-Baker
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109, USA; (A.M.H.); (L.S.); (R.S.); (D.D.)
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
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29
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Azizi E, Ghaffari Novin M, Naji M, Amidi F, Shams Mofarahe Z. Does in vitro fertilization affect the expression of miRNAs and their biogenesis pathway in preimplantation mouse embryos? Birth Defects Res 2019; 112:62-70. [PMID: 31609063 DOI: 10.1002/bdr2.1599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2019] [Revised: 08/26/2019] [Accepted: 09/18/2019] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a well-accepted procedure which has been utilized for the treatment of infertile patients. As embryos at early stages of development are very vulnerable, the IVF conditions may influence genetic and epigenetic regulation of preimplantation mouse embryo. METHODS We assessed the effect of IVF on the expression of developmental and implantation related miRNAs (miR-21, miR-93, miR-24, and let-7a), their common presumptive target (Stat3), and miRNA biogenesis pathway genes (Drosha, Dgcr8, Exportin-5, Dicer, and Ago2). in vivo 8-cell and blastocysts were compared to IVF embryos. Expression levels of miRNAs, Stat3, and miRNA biogenesis pathway genes were evaluated by qRT-PCR in in vivo (n = 8) and IVF (n = 4) embryos. RESULTS The expression levels of let-7a and Stat3 were significantly reduced in IVF blastocyst when compared with in vivo (p = .004 and p = .009, respectively). Nevertheless, the IVF procedure did not influence the expression levels of miRNA biogenesis pathway components in 8-cell and blastocyst embryos. CONCLUSIONS Downregulation of let-7a and developmental related transcription factor, Stat3, in IVF mouse blastocysts may affect preimplantation development and implantation of embryos. Moreover, the genes of the miRNA biogenesis pathway were not changed in preimplantation mouse embryos through the IVF procedure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elham Azizi
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Marefat Ghaffari Novin
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Infertility and Reproductive Health Research Center (IRHRC), Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Naji
- Urology and Nephrology Research Center (UNRC), Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fardin Amidi
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Shams Mofarahe
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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30
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Hong L, Liu R, Qiao X, Wang X, Wang S, Li J, Wu Z, Zhang H. Differential microRNA Expression in Porcine Endometrium Involved in Remodeling and Angiogenesis That Contributes to Embryonic Implantation. Front Genet 2019; 10:661. [PMID: 31402929 PMCID: PMC6677090 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2019.00661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2019] [Accepted: 06/24/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: In western swine breeds, up to 30% of embryonic losses occur during early pregnancy, and the majority of embryonic losses happens during implantation. In this period, maternal recognition of pregnancy begins to occur and blastocysts undergo dramatic morphologic changes. As with other species, changes in the uterine environment plays an important role in the process of embryo implantation in pigs. Erhualian (ER) pigs, one of the Chinese Taihu swine breeds, are known to have the highest litter size in the world. Experiments demonstrated that the greater embryonic survival on gestation day (GD) 12 in Chinese Taihu pigs is one important factor that contributes to enhanced litter size. This is largely controlled by maternal genes. In this study, endometrial samples were collected from pregnant Landrace×Large Yorkshire (LL) sows (parity 3) and ER sows (parity 3) on GD12 and the expression profiles of microRNAs (miRNAs) in the endometrium were compared between ER and LL using miRNA-seq technology. Results: A total of 288 miRNAs were identified in the pig endometrium, including 202 previously known and 86 novel miRNAs. The Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway analysis revealed that highly abundant miRNAs might affect endometrial remodeling. Comparison between LL and ER sows revealed that 96 known miRNAs were differentially expressed between the two groups (including 78 up-regulated and 18 down-regulated miRNAs in ER compared to LL). Bioinformatics analysis showed that the target genes of some differentially expressed miRNAs were involved in pathways related to angiogenesis, proliferation, apoptosis, and tissue remodeling, which play critical roles in implantation by regulating endometrial structural changes and secretions of hormones, growth factors, and nutrients. Furthermore, the results demonstrated that insulin-like growth factor-1 protein expression was directly inhibited by miR-206. The lower expression of miR-206 in ER compared to LL might facilitate the angiogenesis of the endometrium during embryo implantation. Conclusions: The identified miRNAs that are differentially expressed in the endometrium of ER and LL pigs will contribute to the understanding of the role of miRNAs in embryonic implantation and the molecular mechanisms of the highest embryonic survival in Chinese ER pigs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linjun Hong
- National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ruize Liu
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, United States
| | - Xiwu Qiao
- National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xingwang Wang
- National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shouqi Wang
- National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiaqi Li
- National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhenfang Wu
- National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hao Zhang
- National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
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31
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Heidari F, Hosseini S, Yeganeh SM, Salehi M. Expression of miR-Let-7a, miR-15a, miR-16-1, and their target genes in fresh and vitrified embryos and its surrounding culture media for noninvasive embryo assessment. J Cell Biochem 2019; 120:19691-19698. [PMID: 31297859 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.29275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2019] [Accepted: 06/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
microRNAs (miRNAs) play a critical role in implantation and development of mouse embryos. In this study, we aim to evaluate the possibility of miRNAs as potential biomarkers in the blastocyst culture to assess embryo quality. We also intend to investigate whether improved clinical outcomes of vitrified embryos agree with altered miRNA expressions. Mouse embryos from in vitro fertilization were vitrified at the two-cell stage. After thawing, the embryos were individually cultured and developed to the blastocyst stage. We used quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction to evaluate miRNA expression levels in both vitrified and fresh groups, and culture medium (CM). The fibronectin binding assay was performed to examine for blastocyst attachment. The findings showed reduced expressions of miR-16-1 (0.2 ± 0.06) and miR-Let-7a (0.65 ± 0.1) after vitrification compared to fresh embryos. We observed significant upregulation of the target genes Vav3 (4.33 ± 0.25), integrin β-3 (Itg β3; 4.73 ± 0.2), and Bcl2 (2.29 ± 0.16) in the vitrified embryos compared to the fresh groups. Evaluation of blastocyst CM showed upregulation of miR-Let-7a (15.68 ± 0.89), miR-16-1 (16.18 ± 0.75), and miR-15a (13.36 ± 0.73) in the vitrified group in comparison to the fresh blastocysts (P < .05). The expression levels of miR-16-1 (3.28 ± 0.63), miR-15a (5.91 ± 0.38), and miR-Let-7a (9.07 ± 0.6) in CM of the vitrified blastocysts conducted on fibronectin were significantly higher than the fresh group (P < .05).This study showed that vitrification of embryos changes implantation and proliferation biomarkers. In addition, upregulated miRNAs in CM could be potentially used for noninvasive early assessment of embryo quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fezzeh Heidari
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sara Hosseini
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,MOM Research Center, Tehran, Iran
| | - Samira M Yeganeh
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Cellular and Molecular Biology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Salehi
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Cellular and Molecular Biology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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32
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Hesam Shariati MB, Seghinsara AM, Shokrzadeh N, Niknafs B. The effect of fludrocortisone on the uterine receptivity partially mediated by ERK1/2-mTOR pathway. J Cell Physiol 2019; 234:20098-20110. [PMID: 30968418 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.28609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2019] [Revised: 03/10/2019] [Accepted: 03/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Implantation of embryos needs endometrial receptivity. Mineralocorticoids is one of the causes influencing the implantation window. This study targeted to evaluation fludrocortisone different properties on endometrial receptivity. The objective of this study was to assess whether treatment with fludrocortisone could impact the expression of diverse genes and proteins that are involved in uterine receptivity in mice. In this study, 40 female adult BALB/c mice were used. The samples were allocated to four groups of ten. Control group (C) received: vehicle; fludrocortisone group (FCA): received 1.5 mg/kg fludrocortisone; PP242 group (PP242): received 30 mg/kg PP242; fludrocortisone+PP242 group (FCA+PP242): received fludrocortisone and PP242. Mice were killed on window implantation day after mating and confirmed pregnancy. The endometrial epithelium of mouse was collected to assess mRNA expression of leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF), mucin-1 (MUC1), heparin-binding epidermal growth factor (HB-EGF), (Msx.1), miRNA Let-7a, and miRNA 223-3p as well as protein expression of extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2), mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), and eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4E-binding protein 1 (4E-BP1) in the uterine using real-time PCR and western blot, respectively. In comparison with the control group, fludrocortisone administration upregulated the expression of LIF, HB-EGF, Msx.1, miRNA Let-7a, ERK1/2, and mTOR in the epithelial endometrium. The PP242-treated group demonstrated a significant rise in the expression of MUC1, miRNA 223-3p and a remarkable decline in ERK1/2 and p-4E-BP1 levels in comparison with the control group. Combination therapy of (FCA+PP242) resulted in a remarkable rise in LIF, Msx-1, HB-EGF, ERK1/2, and mTOR levels, in comparison with the PP242 group. Furthermore, combination therapy of (FCA+PP242) downregulated the expression of MUC1 in comparison with the PP242-treated group. According to the results, fludrocortisone affected uterine receptivity possibly by means of modulating the expression of genes involved in the uterine receptivity and activation of the ERK1/2-mTOR pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Abbas Majdi Seghinsara
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Science, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Naser Shokrzadeh
- Infertility and Reproductive Health research center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Behrooz Niknafs
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Science, Tabriz, Iran
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Guo F, Si C, Zhou M, Wang J, Zhang D, Leung PCK, Xu B, Zhang A. Decreased PECAM1-mediated TGF-β1 expression in the mid-secretory endometrium in women with recurrent implantation failure. Hum Reprod 2019; 33:832-843. [PMID: 29617817 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dey022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2017] [Accepted: 03/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Is recurrent implantation failure (RIF) associated with decreased expression of platelet and endothelial cell adhesion molecule 1 (PECAM1) and transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) in the endometrium during the implantation window? SUMMARY ANSWER The present study demonstrates that the expression of PECAM1 and TGF-β1 is significantly decreased in the mid-secretory endometrium in women with RIF, which may account for embryo implantation failure. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY RIF has become a bottleneck issue that hampers the improvement of pregnancy rates in IVF-embryo transfer (IVF-ET). The causes of RIF are complex and may involve the dysregulation of various growth factors, metabolites, and inflammatory cytokines. At present, the precise pathogenesis of RIF has not been elucidated. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This was a prospective case-control study. Endometrial tissue samples were obtained from January 2014 to December 2016 from two groups of women who had undergone IVF (RIF group, 22 women who underwent ≥3 ETs including a total of ≥4 good-quality embryos without pregnancy, control group, 18 women who conceived in their first treatment cycle). At the same time, samples were obtained from 18 women with infertility secondary to tubal factor in the early proliferative, late proliferative and mid-secretory phases of the menstrual cycle (n = 6 per group). Samples used for isolation of primary human endometrial epithelial cells and stromal cells (HEECs and HESCs) were collected in December 2017 from six women with infertility secondary to tubal factor. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS We investigated gene expression using integrative whole genome expression microarray analysis, including differentially expressed gene screening, principal component analysis, and functional enrichment analysis. RT-qPCR, western blotting, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence co-localization analysis and short hairpin RNA (shRNA) plasmid transfection in Ishikawa cell line, HEECs and HESCs were used to investigate the expression of PECAM1 and TGF-β1. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Integrative data mining of whole-genome expression profiles identified cell adhesion as a key regulator in RIF. Database retrieval and literature review screened several novel cell adhesion-related genes that might participate in embryo implantation, which include PECAM1, intercellular adhesion molecule 2 (ICAM2), integrin subunit β2 (ITGB2), selectin P (SELP) and TEK receptor tyrosine kinase (TEK). Among these targets, the mRNA and protein levels of PECAM1 were significantly lower in the RIF group than those in the control group. During the menstrual cycles of women with secondary infertility, the protein expression level of PECAM1 was the lowest in early proliferative phase, slightly increased in late proliferative phase and was the highest in mid-secretory phase. While the expression level of HOXA10, an endometrial receptivity marker, kept at a low level in early proliferative phase and increased in late proliferative phase, then maintained at a high level in the mid-secretory phase. Furthermore, TGF-β1, mediated by PECAM1, was also decreased significantly in the RIF group. Using shRNA-based approach, we demonstrated that the depletion of PECAM1 significantly decreased the expression of TGF-β1 in Ishikawa cells, as well as in primary HEECs and HESCs. These results indicated that PECAM1 and TGF-β1 might play a pivotal role in modulating endometrial receptivity. LIMITATIONS REASONS FOR CAUTION Although we have shown that PECAM1 and TGF-β1 were down-regulated in the women with RIF, the molecular mechanism of the effect of the factors on the endometrial receptivity remain unclear. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Our findings provide insight into the contribution of PECAM1 and TGF-β1 in regulating implantation, which could be used to develop potential therapeutic methods for RIF. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was supported by grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Nos. 81771656 and 81370763), Special fund for clinical research of the Chinese Medical Association (No. 16020480664), and the Merck Serono China Research Fund for Fertility Agreement. The authors have no competing interests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Guo
- Reproductive Medical Center of Ruijin Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 197 Ruijin 2nd Road, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Chenchen Si
- Reproductive Medical Center of Ruijin Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 197 Ruijin 2nd Road, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Mingjuan Zhou
- Reproductive Medical Center of Ruijin Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 197 Ruijin 2nd Road, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Jingwen Wang
- Reproductive Medical Center of Ruijin Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 197 Ruijin 2nd Road, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Dan Zhang
- Reproductive Medical Center of Ruijin Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 197 Ruijin 2nd Road, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Peter C K Leung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Room 317, 950 West 28 Avenue, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada V5Z 4H4
| | - Bufang Xu
- Reproductive Medical Center of Ruijin Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 197 Ruijin 2nd Road, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Aijun Zhang
- Reproductive Medical Center of Ruijin Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 197 Ruijin 2nd Road, Shanghai 200025, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, 280 South Chongqing Road, Shanghai 200025, China
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Naseri F, Hosseini S, Ghaffari Novin M, Hosseini A, Heidari MH, Salehi M. Does blastomere removal alter the expression level of miR-Let7a and its target genes following mouse embryo biopsy? J Cell Biochem 2018; 120:9430-9436. [PMID: 30506995 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.28218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2018] [Accepted: 11/15/2018] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Embryo manipulations may cause the misexpression of various genes, most of which play critical roles in the regulation of implantation. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of embryo biopsy on the expression of miR-Let-7a and its gene targets including ErbB4, Tgf-α, Itg-αv, Itg β3 on the implantation of mouse embryo. Embryos were produced by in vitro fertilization followed by blastomere biopsy at the eight-cell stage. The effects of blastomere removal on the expression of genes ErbB4, Tgf-α, Itg αv, Itg β3, and miR-Let-7a as well as the alteration of the blastocyst cell number were compared in both biopsied and non-biopsied groups. Finally, blastocyst attachment was assessed on culture dishes precoated with Fibronectin. The results revealed that there were no significant differences between the biopsied and non-biopsied embryos with reference to the blastocyst formation rates, the average inner cell mass, trophectoderm cell number, and percentage of attachment of blastocysts (P > 0.05). The expression of ErbB4, Itg-β3, Itg-αv, TGF-α transcripts, and miR-Let-7a in blastocysts biopsied embryos did not differ from the non-biopsied blastocysts (P > 0.05). The results demonstrated that the preimplantation embryo development and attachment of biopsied embryos in vitro is not adversely affected by one blastomere biopsy at the eight-cell stage embryo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Naseri
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sara Hosseini
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Marefat Ghaffari Novin
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ahmad Hosseini
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hasan Heidari
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Salehi
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Biotechnology, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Research advances on embryonic diapause in mammals. Anim Reprod Sci 2018; 198:1-10. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2018.09.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2018] [Revised: 09/06/2018] [Accepted: 09/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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Fenelon JC, Renfree MB. The history of the discovery of embryonic diapause in mammals. Biol Reprod 2018; 99:242-251. [DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioy112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2018] [Accepted: 05/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Jane C Fenelon
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria Australia
| | - Marilyn B Renfree
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria Australia
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Liang S, Guo J, Choi JW, Shin KT, Wang HY, Jo YJ, Kim NH, Cui XS. Protein phosphatase 2A regulatory subunit B55α functions in mouse oocyte maturation and early embryonic development. Oncotarget 2018; 8:26979-26991. [PMID: 28439046 PMCID: PMC5432312 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.15927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2016] [Accepted: 02/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Protein phosphatase 2A regulatory subunit B55α (PP2A-B55α) has been studied in mitosis. However, its functions in mammalian meiosis and early embryonic development remain unknown. Here, we report that PP2A-B55α is critical for mouse oocyte meiosis and preimplantation embryo development. Knockdown of PP2A-B55α in oocytes led to abnormal asymmetric division, disordered spindle dynamics, defects in chromosome congression, an increase in aneuploidy, and induction of the DNA damage response. Moreover, knockdown of PP2A-B55α in fertilized mouse zygotes impaired development to the blastocyst stage. The impairment of embryonic development might have been due to induction of sustained DNA damage in embryos, which caused apoptosis and inhibited cell proliferation and outgrowth potential at the blastocyst stage. Overall, these results provide a novel insight into the role of PP2A-B55α as a novel meiotic and embryonic competence factor at the onset of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuang Liang
- Department of Animal Science, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Chungbuk, 361-763, Republic of Korea
| | - Jing Guo
- Department of Animal Science, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Chungbuk, 361-763, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeong-Woo Choi
- Department of Animal Science, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Chungbuk, 361-763, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyung-Tae Shin
- Department of Animal Science, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Chungbuk, 361-763, Republic of Korea
| | - Hai-Yang Wang
- Department of Animal Science, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Chungbuk, 361-763, Republic of Korea
| | - Yu-Jin Jo
- Department of Animal Science, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Chungbuk, 361-763, Republic of Korea
| | - Nam-Hyung Kim
- Department of Animal Science, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Chungbuk, 361-763, Republic of Korea
| | - Xiang-Shun Cui
- Department of Animal Science, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Chungbuk, 361-763, Republic of Korea
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Liang S, Nie ZW, Guo J, Niu YJ, Shin KT, Ock SA, Cui XS. Overexpression of MicroRNA-29b Decreases Expression of DNA Methyltransferases and Improves Quality of the Blastocysts Derived from Somatic Cell Nuclear Transfer in Cattle. MICROSCOPY AND MICROANALYSIS : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF MICROSCOPY SOCIETY OF AMERICA, MICROBEAM ANALYSIS SOCIETY, MICROSCOPICAL SOCIETY OF CANADA 2018; 24:29-37. [PMID: 29485024 DOI: 10.1017/s1431927618000016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
MicroRNA (miR)-29b plays a crucial role during somatic cell reprogramming. The aim of the current study was to explore the effects of miR-29b on the developmental competence of bovine somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) embryos, as well as the underlying mechanisms of action. The expression level of miR-29b was lower in bovine SCNT embryos at the pronuclear, 8-cell, and blastocyst stages compared with in vitro fertilized embryos. In addition, miR-29b regulates the expression of DNA methyltransferases (Dnmt3a/3b and Dnmt1) in bovine SCNT embryos. We further investigated SCNT embryo developmental competence and found that miR-29b overexpression during bovine SCNT embryonic development does not improve developmental potency and downregulation inhibits developmental potency. Nevertheless, the quality of bovine SCNT embryos at the blastocyst stage improved significantly. The expression of pluripotency factors and cellular proliferation were significantly higher in blastocysts from the miR-29b overexpression group than the control and downregulation groups. In addition, outgrowth potential in blastocysts after miR-29b overexpression was also significantly greater in the miR-29b overexpression group than in the control and downregulation groups. Taken together, these results demonstrated that miR-29b plays an important role in bovine SCNT embryo development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuang Liang
- 1Department of Animal Sciences,Chungbuk National University,Cheongju,Chungbuk,361-763,Republic of Korea
| | - Zheng-Wen Nie
- 1Department of Animal Sciences,Chungbuk National University,Cheongju,Chungbuk,361-763,Republic of Korea
| | - Jing Guo
- 1Department of Animal Sciences,Chungbuk National University,Cheongju,Chungbuk,361-763,Republic of Korea
| | - Ying-Jie Niu
- 1Department of Animal Sciences,Chungbuk National University,Cheongju,Chungbuk,361-763,Republic of Korea
| | - Kyung-Tae Shin
- 1Department of Animal Sciences,Chungbuk National University,Cheongju,Chungbuk,361-763,Republic of Korea
| | - Sun A Ock
- 4Animal Biotechnology Division,National Institute of Animal Science,Rural Development Administration,Jeonju 55365,Republic of Korea
| | - Xiang-Shun Cui
- 1Department of Animal Sciences,Chungbuk National University,Cheongju,Chungbuk,361-763,Republic of Korea
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Abstract
Failure of embryo implantation is a major limiting factor in early pregnancy and assisted reproduction. Determinants of implantation include the embryo viability, the endometrial receptivity, and embryo-maternal interactions. Multiple molecules are involved in the regulation of implantation, but their specific regulatory mechanisms remain unclear. MicroRNA (miRNA), functioning as the transcriptional regulator of gene expression, has been widely reported to be involved in embryo implantation. Recent studies reveal that miRNAs not only act inside the cells, but also can be released by cells into the extracellular environment through multiple packaging forms, facilitating intercellular communication and providing indicative information associated with physiological and pathological conditions. The discovery of extracellular miRNAs shed new light on implantation studies. MiRNAs provide new mechanisms for embryo-maternal communication. Moreover, they may serve as non-invasive biomarkers for embryo selection and assessment of endometrial receptivity in assisted reproduction, which improves the accuracy of evaluation while reducing the mechanical damage to the tissue. In this review, we discuss the involvement of miRNAs in embryo implantation from several aspects, focusing on the role of extracellular miRNAs and their potential applications in assisted reproductive technologies (ART) to promote fertility efficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingjie Liang
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, 866 Yuhangtang Road, Hangzhou, 310058 People’s Republic of China
| | - Shaoyu Wang
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, 866 Yuhangtang Road, Hangzhou, 310058 People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhengguang Wang
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, 866 Yuhangtang Road, Hangzhou, 310058 People’s Republic of China
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Niu Z, Pang RTK, Liu W, Li Q, Cheng R, Yeung WSB. Polymer-based precipitation preserves biological activities of extracellular vesicles from an endometrial cell line. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0186534. [PMID: 29023592 PMCID: PMC5638560 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0186534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2017] [Accepted: 10/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are membrane-bound vesicles released by cells and act as media for transfer of proteins, small RNAs and mRNAs to distant sites. They can be isolated by different methods. However, the biological activities of the purified EVs have seldom been studied. In this study, we compared the use of ultracentrifugation (UC), ultra-filtration (UF), polymer-based precipitation (PBP), and PBP with size-based purification (PBP+SP) for isolation of EVs from human endometrial cells and mouse uterine luminal fluid (ULF). Electron microscopy revealed that the diameters of the isolated EVs were similar among the tested methods. UF recovered the highest number of EVs followed by PBP, while UC and PBP+SP were significantly less efficient (P<0.05). Based on the number of EVs-to-protein ratios, PBP had the least protein contamination, significantly better than the other methods (P<0.05). All the isolated EVs expressed exosome-enriched proteins CD63, TSG101 and HSP70. Incubation of the trophoblast JEG-3 cells with an equal amount of the fluorescence-labelled EVs isolated by the studied methods showed that many of the PBP-EVs treated cells were fluorescence positive but only a few cells were labelled in the UC- and UF-EVs treated groups. Moreover, the PBP-EVs could transfer significantly more miRNA to the recipient cells than the other 3 methods (P<0.05). The PBP method could isolate EVs from mouse ULF; the diameter of the isolated EVs was 62±19 nm and expressed CD63, TSG101 and HSP70 proteins. In conclusion, PBP could best preserve the activities of the isolated EVs among the 4 methods studied and was able to isolate EVs from a small volume of sample. The simple setup and low equipment demands makes PBP the most suitable method for rapid EV assessment and isolation of EVs in clinical and basic research settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziru Niu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, China
| | - Ronald T. K. Pang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, China
- Center of Reproduction, Development, and Growth, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, China
| | - Weimin Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, China
- Center of Reproduction, Development, and Growth, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, China
| | - Qian Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, China
| | - Ranran Cheng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, China
| | - William S. B. Yeung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, China
- Center of Reproduction, Development, and Growth, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, China
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital
- * E-mail:
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Abstract
Embryonic diapause – a period of embryonic suspension at the blastocyst stage – is a fascinating phenomenon that occurs in over 130 species of mammals, ranging from bears and badgers to mice and marsupials. It might even occur in humans. During diapause, there is minimal cell division and greatly reduced metabolism, and development is put on hold. Yet there are no ill effects for the pregnancy when it eventually continues. Multiple factors can induce diapause, including seasonal supplies of food, temperature, photoperiod and lactation. The successful reactivation and continuation of pregnancy then requires a viable embryo, a receptive uterus and effective molecular communication between the two. But how do the blastocysts survive and remain viable during this period of time, which can be up to a year in some cases? And what are the signals that bring it out of suspended animation? Here, we provide an overview of the process of diapause and address these questions, focussing on recent molecular data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marilyn B. Renfree
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia 3010
| | - Jane C. Fenelon
- The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada K1H8L6
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Tesfaye D, Salilew-Wondim D, Gebremedhn S, Sohel MMH, Pandey HO, Hoelker M, Schellander K. Potential role of microRNAs in mammalian female fertility. Reprod Fertil Dev 2017; 29:8-23. [PMID: 28278789 DOI: 10.1071/rd16266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Since the first evidence for the involvement of microRNAs (miRNAs) in various reproductive processes through conditional knockout of DICER, several studies have been conducted to investigate the expression pattern and role of miRNAs in ovarian follicular development, oocyte maturation, embryo development, embryo-maternal communication, pregnancy establishment and various reproductive diseases. Although advances in sequencing technology have fuelled miRNA studies in mammalian species, the presence of extracellular miRNAs in various biological fluids, including follicular fluid, blood plasma, urine and milk among others, has opened a new door in miRNA research for their use as diagnostic markers. This review presents data related to the identification and expression analysis of cellular miRNA in mammalian female fertility associated with ovarian folliculogenesis, oocyte maturation, preimplantation embryo development and embryo implantation. In addition, the relevance of miRNAs to female reproductive disorders, including polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometritis and abnormal pregnancies, is discussed for various mammalian species. Most importantly, the mechanism of release and the role of extracellular miRNAs in cell-cell communication and their potential role as non-invasive markers in female fertility are discussed in detail. Understanding this layer of regulation in female reproduction processes will pave the way to understanding the genetic regulation of female fertility in mammalian species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dawit Tesfaye
- Institute of Animal Science, Department of Animal Breeding and Husbandry, University of Bonn, Endenicher Allee 15, 53115 Bonn, Germany
| | - Dessie Salilew-Wondim
- Institute of Animal Science, Department of Animal Breeding and Husbandry, University of Bonn, Endenicher Allee 15, 53115 Bonn, Germany
| | - Samuel Gebremedhn
- Institute of Animal Science, Department of Animal Breeding and Husbandry, University of Bonn, Endenicher Allee 15, 53115 Bonn, Germany
| | - Md Mahmodul Hasan Sohel
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Genome and Stem Cell Centre, Erciyes University, Kayseri 38039, Turkey
| | - Hari Om Pandey
- Institute of Animal Science, Department of Animal Breeding and Husbandry, University of Bonn, Endenicher Allee 15, 53115 Bonn, Germany
| | - Michael Hoelker
- Institute of Animal Science, Department of Animal Breeding and Husbandry, University of Bonn, Endenicher Allee 15, 53115 Bonn, Germany
| | - Karl Schellander
- Institute of Animal Science, Department of Animal Breeding and Husbandry, University of Bonn, Endenicher Allee 15, 53115 Bonn, Germany
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Expression of H19 imprinted gene in patients with repeated implantation failure during the window of implantation. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2017; 296:835-839. [DOI: 10.1007/s00404-017-4482-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2017] [Accepted: 07/31/2017] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
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44
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Romney AL, Podrabsky JE. Transcriptomic analysis of maternally provisioned cues for phenotypic plasticity in the annual killifish, Austrofundulus limnaeus. EvoDevo 2017; 8:6. [PMID: 28439397 PMCID: PMC5401559 DOI: 10.1186/s13227-017-0069-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2017] [Accepted: 04/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Genotype and environment can interact during development to produce novel adaptive traits that support life in extreme conditions. The development of the annual killifish Austrofundulus limnaeus is unique among vertebrates because the embryos have distinct cell movements that separate epiboly from axis formation during early development, can enter into a state of metabolic dormancy known as diapause and can survive extreme environmental conditions. The ability to enter into diapause can be maternally programmed, with young females producing embryos that do not enter into diapause. Alternately, embryos can be programmed to “escape” from diapause and develop directly by both maternal factors and embryonic incubation conditions. Thus, maternally packaged gene products are hypothesized to regulate developmental trajectory and perhaps the other unique developmental characters in this species. Results Using high-throughput RNA sequencing, we generated transcriptomic profiles of mRNAs, long non-coding RNAs and small non-coding RNAs (sncRNAs) in 1–2 cell stage embryos of A. limnaeus. Transcriptomic analyses suggest maternal programming of embryos through alternatively spliced mRNAs and antisense sncRNAs. Comparison of these results to those of comparable studies on zebrafish and other fishes reveals a surprisingly high abundance of transcripts involved in the cellular response to stress and a relatively lower expression of genes required for rapid transition through the cell cycle. Conclusions Maternal programming of developmental trajectory is unlikely accomplished by differential expression of diapause-specific genes. Rather, evidence suggests a role for trajectory-specific splice variants of genes expressed in both phenotypes. In addition, based on comparative studies with zebrafish, the A. limnaeus 1–2 cell stage transcriptome is unique in ways that are consistent with their unique life history. These results not only impact our understanding of the genetic mechanisms that regulate entrance into diapause, but also provide insight into the epigenetic regulation of gene expression during development. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13227-017-0069-7) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amie L Romney
- Department of Biology, Portland State University, P.O. Box 751, Portland, OR 97207 USA
| | - Jason E Podrabsky
- Department of Biology, Portland State University, P.O. Box 751, Portland, OR 97207 USA
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Chen C, Wu H, Shen D, Wang S, Zhang L, Wang X, Gao B, Wu T, Li B, Li K, Song C. Comparative profiling of small RNAs of pig seminal plasma and ejaculated and epididymal sperm. Reproduction 2017; 153:785-796. [PMID: 28314792 DOI: 10.1530/rep-17-0014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2017] [Revised: 03/16/2017] [Accepted: 03/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The similarities and differences of small RNAs in seminal plasma, epididymal sperm and ejaculated sperm remain largely undefined. We conducted a systematic comparative analysis of small RNA profiles in pig ejaculated sperm, epididymal sperm and seminal plasma and found that the diversity distribution of small RNA species was generally similar, whereas the abundance of small RNAs is dramatically different across the three libraries; miRNAs and small RNAs derived from rRNA, tRNA, small nuclear RNA, 7SK RNA, NRON RNA and cis-regulatory RNA were enriched in the three libraries, but piRNA was absent. A large population of small RNAs from ejaculated sperm are ejaculated sperm specific, and only 8-30% of small RNAs overlapped with those of epididymal sperm or seminal plasma and a small proportion (5-18%) of small RNAs were shared in the three libraries, suggesting that, in addition to the testes, sperm RNAs may also originate from seminal plasma, epididymis as well as other resources. Most miRNAs were co-distributed but differentially expressed across the three libraries, with epididymal sperm exhibiting the highest abundance, followed by ejaculated sperm and seminal plasma. The prediction of target genes of the top 10 highly expressed miRNAs across the three libraries revealed that these miRNAs may be involved in spermatogenesis, zygote development and the interaction between the environment and animals. Our study provides the first description of the similarities and differences of small RNA profiles in ejaculated sperm, epididymal sperm and seminal plasma and indicates that sperm RNA may have origins other than the testes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cai Chen
- The Key Laboratory for Domestic Animal Genetic Resources and Breeding of the Ministry of Agriculture of ChinaInstitute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China.,Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product SafetyCollege of Animal Science & Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Han Wu
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product SafetyCollege of Animal Science & Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Dan Shen
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product SafetyCollege of Animal Science & Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Saisai Wang
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product SafetyCollege of Animal Science & Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Li Zhang
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product SafetyCollege of Animal Science & Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiaoyan Wang
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product SafetyCollege of Animal Science & Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Bo Gao
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product SafetyCollege of Animal Science & Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Tianwen Wu
- The Key Laboratory for Domestic Animal Genetic Resources and Breeding of the Ministry of Agriculture of ChinaInstitute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Bichun Li
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product SafetyCollege of Animal Science & Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Kui Li
- The Key Laboratory for Domestic Animal Genetic Resources and Breeding of the Ministry of Agriculture of ChinaInstitute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Chengyi Song
- The Key Laboratory for Domestic Animal Genetic Resources and Breeding of the Ministry of Agriculture of ChinaInstitute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China .,Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product SafetyCollege of Animal Science & Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
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46
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Guo J, Kim NH, Cui XS. Inhibition of Fatty Acid Synthase Reduces Blastocyst Hatching through Regulation of the AKT Pathway in Pigs. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0170624. [PMID: 28107461 PMCID: PMC5249155 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0170624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2016] [Accepted: 01/07/2017] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Fatty acid synthase (FASN) is an enzyme responsible for the de novo synthesis of long-chain fatty acids. During oncogenesis, FASN plays a role in growth and survival rather than acting within the energy storage pathways. Here, the function of FASN during early embryonic development was studied using its specific inhibitor, C75. We found that the presence of the inhibitor reduced blastocyst hatching. FASN inhibition decreased Cpt1 expression, leading to a reduction in mitochondria numbers and ATP content. This inhibition of FASN resulted in the down-regulation of the AKT pathway, thereby triggering apoptosis through the activation of the p53 pathway. Activation of the apoptotic pathway also leads to increased accumulation of reactive oxygen species and autophagy. In addition, the FASN inhibitor impaired cell proliferation, a parameter of blastocyst quality for outgrowth. The level of OCT4, an important factor in embryonic development, decreased after treatment with the FASN inhibitor. These results show that FASN exerts an effect on early embryonic development by regulating both fatty acid oxidation and the AKT pathway in pigs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Guo
- Department of Animal Sciences, Chungbuk National University, Chungbuk, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
| | - Nam-Hyung Kim
- Department of Animal Sciences, Chungbuk National University, Chungbuk, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
- * E-mail: (X-SC); (N-HK)
| | - Xiang-Shun Cui
- Department of Animal Sciences, Chungbuk National University, Chungbuk, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
- * E-mail: (X-SC); (N-HK)
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Moindjie H, Santos ED, Gouesse RJ, Swierkowski-Blanchard N, Serazin V, Barnea ER, Vialard F, Dieudonné MN. Preimplantation factor is an anti-apoptotic effector in human trophoblasts involving p53 signaling pathway. Cell Death Dis 2016; 7:e2504. [PMID: 27906186 PMCID: PMC5261002 DOI: 10.1038/cddis.2016.382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2016] [Revised: 09/02/2016] [Accepted: 10/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
From the earliest stages of gestation, embryonic-maternal interaction has a key role in a successful pregnancy. Various factors present during gestation may significantly influence this type of juxta/paracrine interaction. PreImplantation Factor (PIF) is a recently identified factor with activity at the fetomaternal interface. PIF is secreted by viable embryos and directly controls placental development by increasing the invasive capacity of human extravillous trophoblasts (EVTs). To further specify PIF's role in the human placenta, we analyzed the genome-wide expression profile of the EVT in the presence of a synthetic PIF analog (sPIF). We found that sPIF exposure altered several pathways related to p53 signaling, survival and the immune response. Functional assays revealed that sPIF acts through the p53 pathway to reduce both early and late trophoblast apoptosis. More precisely, sPIF (i) decreases the phosphorylation of p53 at Ser-15, (ii) enhances the B-cell lymphoma-2 (BCL2) expression and (iii) reduces the BCL2-associated X protein (BAX) and BCL2 homologous antagonist killer (BAK) mRNA expression levels. Furthermore, invalidation experiments of TP53 allowed us to demonstrate that PIF's effects on placental apoptosis seemed to be essentially mediated by this gene. We have clearly shown that p53 and sPIF pathways could interact in human trophoblast and thus promotes cell survival. Furthermore, sPIF was found to regulate a gene network related to immune tolerance in the EVT, which emphasizes the beneficial effect of this peptide on the human placenta. Finally, the PIF protein levels in placentas from pregnancies affected by preeclampsia or intra-uterine growth restriction were significantly lower than in gestational age-matched control placentas. Taken as a whole, our results suggest that sPIF protects the EVT's functional status through a variety of mechanisms. Clinical application of sPIF in the treatment of disorders of early pregnancy can be envisioned.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hadia Moindjie
- GIG-EA7404, Université de Versailles Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines - Paris Saclay, Unité de Formation et de Recherche des Sciences de la Santé-Simone Veil, Montigny-le Bretonneux, France
| | - Esther Dos Santos
- GIG-EA7404, Université de Versailles Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines - Paris Saclay, Unité de Formation et de Recherche des Sciences de la Santé-Simone Veil, Montigny-le Bretonneux, France.,Service de Biologie Médicale, Centre Hospitalier de Poissy-Saint Germain, Poissy, France
| | - Rita-Josiane Gouesse
- GIG-EA7404, Université de Versailles Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines - Paris Saclay, Unité de Formation et de Recherche des Sciences de la Santé-Simone Veil, Montigny-le Bretonneux, France
| | - Nelly Swierkowski-Blanchard
- Département de Biologie de la Reproduction, Cytogénétique, Gynécologie et Obstétrique, Centre Hospitalier de Poissy-Saint Germain, Poissy, France
| | - Valérie Serazin
- GIG-EA7404, Université de Versailles Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines - Paris Saclay, Unité de Formation et de Recherche des Sciences de la Santé-Simone Veil, Montigny-le Bretonneux, France.,Service de Biologie Médicale, Centre Hospitalier de Poissy-Saint Germain, Poissy, France
| | - Eytan R Barnea
- Society for the Investigation of Early Pregnancy, Cherry Hill, NJ, USA.,BioIncept, LLC, Cherry Hill, NJ, USA
| | - François Vialard
- GIG-EA7404, Université de Versailles Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines - Paris Saclay, Unité de Formation et de Recherche des Sciences de la Santé-Simone Veil, Montigny-le Bretonneux, France.,Département de Biologie de la Reproduction, Cytogénétique, Gynécologie et Obstétrique, Centre Hospitalier de Poissy-Saint Germain, Poissy, France
| | - Marie-Noëlle Dieudonné
- GIG-EA7404, Université de Versailles Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines - Paris Saclay, Unité de Formation et de Recherche des Sciences de la Santé-Simone Veil, Montigny-le Bretonneux, France
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Frankenberg SR, de Barros FR, Rossant J, Renfree MB. The mammalian blastocyst. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS-DEVELOPMENTAL BIOLOGY 2016; 5:210-32. [DOI: 10.1002/wdev.220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2015] [Revised: 10/22/2015] [Accepted: 10/29/2015] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Flavia R.O. de Barros
- Program in Developmental and Stem Cell Biology; Peter Gilgan Centre for Research and Learning, Hospital for Sick Children; Toronto Canada
- Department of Molecular Genetics; University of Toronto; Toronto Canada
| | - Janet Rossant
- Program in Developmental and Stem Cell Biology; Peter Gilgan Centre for Research and Learning, Hospital for Sick Children; Toronto Canada
- Department of Molecular Genetics; University of Toronto; Toronto Canada
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49
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Liu W, Niu Z, Li Q, Pang RTK, Chiu PCN, Yeung WSB. MicroRNA and Embryo Implantation. Am J Reprod Immunol 2015; 75:263-71. [PMID: 26707514 DOI: 10.1111/aji.12470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2015] [Accepted: 11/29/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM In mammals, implantation involves interactions between an activated blastocyst and a receptive endometrium. There are controversies on the role of microRNAs in preimplantation embryo development. The actions of endometrial microRNAs on implantation are beginning to be understood. METHOD OF STUDY Review of literature on microRNAs in preimplantation embryos and endometrium. RESULTS Emerging evidence suggests a role of microRNAs in blastocyst activation and implantation. Differential expression of microRNAs is found between receptive and non-receptive endometria. Members of the let-7, miR-200, miR-30 families, and the miR-17-92 clusters are more commonly found to be associated with endometrial receptivity. Experimental studies show that the targets of the differentially expressed microRNAs affect endometrial receptivity, decidualization, and embryo implantation. Free and exosome/microvesicle containing microRNAs have been detected in human and ovine uterine luminal fluid (ULF). They may serve as mediators of embryo-endometrium dialog. Some observations suggest that the microRNAs in ULF may be used as biomarkers in infertility treatment. CONCLUSION MicroRNAs in endometrium and blastocysts are involved in the implantation process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weimin Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China.,Shenzhen Institute of Research and Innovation, University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, China
| | - Ziru Niu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Qian Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Ronald T K Pang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Philip C N Chiu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China.,ShenZhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Shenzhen Hospital, The University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, China
| | - William Shu-Biu Yeung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China.,Shenzhen Institute of Research and Innovation, University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, China.,ShenZhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Shenzhen Hospital, The University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, China
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50
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Martinez AM, Cheong A, Ying J, Xue J, Kannan K, Leung YK, Thomas MA, Ho SM. Effects of High-Butterfat Diet on Embryo Implantation in Female Rats Exposed to Bisphenol A. Biol Reprod 2015; 93:147. [PMID: 26510865 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.115.131433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2015] [Accepted: 10/22/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Bisphenol A (BPA) is an endocrine disruptor associated with poor pregnancy outcomes in human and rodents. The effects of butterfat diets on embryo implantation and whether it modifies BPA's actions are currently unknown. We aimed to determine the effects of butterfat diet on embryo implantation success in female rats exposed to an environmentally relevant dose of BPA. Female Sprague-Dawley rats were exposed to dietary butterfat (10% or 39% kcal/kg body weight [BW]) in the presence or absence of BPA (250 μg/kg BW) or ethinylestradiol (0.1 μg/kg BW) shortly before and during pregnancy to assess embryo implantation potentials by preimplantation development and transport, in vitro blastulation, outgrowth, and implantation. On gestational day (GD) 4.5, rats treated with BPA alone had higher serum total BPA level (2.3-3.7 ng/ml). They had more late-stage preimplantation embryos, whereas those receiving high butterfat (HBF) diet had the most advanced-stage embryos; dams cotreated with HBF and BPA had the most number of advanced embryos. BPA markedly delayed embryo transport to the uterus, but neither amount of butterfat had modifying effects. An in vitro implantation assay showed HBF doubled the outgrowth area, with BPA having no effect. In vivo, BPA reduced the number of implanted embryos on GD8, and cotreatment with HBF eliminated this adverse effect. HBF diet overall resulted in more and larger GD8 embryos. This study reveals the implantation disruptive effects of maternal exposure to an environmentally relevant dose of BPA and identifies HBF diet as a modifier of BPA in promoting early embryonic health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alan M Martinez
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Ana Cheong
- Division of Environmental Genetics and Molecular Toxicology, Department of Environmental Health, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio Center for Environmental Genetics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Jun Ying
- Division of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Department of Environmental Health, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Jingchuan Xue
- Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health, and Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, State University of New York at Albany, Albany, New York
| | - Kurunthachalam Kannan
- Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health, and Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, State University of New York at Albany, Albany, New York Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Science and Experimental Biochemistry Unit, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Yuet-Kin Leung
- Division of Environmental Genetics and Molecular Toxicology, Department of Environmental Health, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio Center for Environmental Genetics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio Cincinnati Cancer Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Michael A Thomas
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Shuk-Mei Ho
- Division of Environmental Genetics and Molecular Toxicology, Department of Environmental Health, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio Center for Environmental Genetics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio Cincinnati Cancer Center, Cincinnati, Ohio Cincinnati Veteran Affairs Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
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