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Zhu Q, Li F, Wang H, Wang X, Xiang Y, Ding H, Wu H, Xu C, Weng L, Cai J, Xu T, Liang N, Hong X, Xue M, Ge H. Single-cell RNA sequencing reveals the effects of high-fat diet on oocyte and early embryo development in female mice. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2024; 22:105. [PMID: 39164729 PMCID: PMC11334609 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-024-01279-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2024] [Accepted: 08/12/2024] [Indexed: 08/22/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Obesity is a global health issue with detrimental effects on various human organs, including the reproductive system. Observational human data and several lines of animal experimental data suggest that maternal obesity impairs ovarian function and early embryo development, but the precise pathogenesis remains unclear. METHODS We established a high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obese female mouse model to assess systemic metabolism, ovarian morphology, and oocyte function in mice. For the first time, this study employed single-cell RNA sequencing to explore the altered transcriptomic landscape of preimplantation embryos at different stages in HFD-induced obese mice. Differential gene expression analysis, enrichment analysis and protein-protein interactions network analysis were performed. RESULTS HFD-induced obese female mice exhibited impaired glucolipid metabolism and insulin resistance. The ovaries of HFD mice had a reduced total follicle number, an increased proportion of atretic follicles, and irregular granulosa cell arrangement. Furthermore, the maturation rate of embryonic development by in vitro fertilization of oocytes was significantly decreased in HFD mice. Additionally, the transcriptional landscapes of preimplantation embryos at different stages in mice induced by different diets were significantly distinguished. The maternal-to-zygotic transition was also affected by the failure to remove maternal RNAs and to turn off zygotic genome expression. CONCLUSIONS HFD-induced obesity impaired ovarian morphology and oocyte function in female mice and further led to alterations in the transcriptional landscape of preimplantation embryos at different stages of HFD mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Zhu
- Reproductive Medicine Centre, The Affiliated Taizhou People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Taizhou, China
- Graduate School, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Feng Li
- Northern Jiangsu People's Hospital Affiliated to Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Hao Wang
- Northern Jiangsu People's Hospital Affiliated to Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Xia Wang
- Reproductive Medicine Centre, The Affiliated Taizhou People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Taizhou, China
| | - Yu Xiang
- Reproductive Medicine Centre, The Affiliated Taizhou People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Taizhou, China
| | - Huimin Ding
- Reproductive Medicine Centre, The Affiliated Taizhou People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Taizhou, China
| | - Honghui Wu
- Reproductive Medicine Centre, The Affiliated Taizhou People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Taizhou, China
- Graduate School, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Cen Xu
- Reproductive Medicine Centre, The Affiliated Taizhou People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Taizhou, China
| | - Linglin Weng
- Reproductive Medicine Centre, The Affiliated Taizhou People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Taizhou, China
- Graduate School, Nanjing University Of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Jieyu Cai
- Reproductive Medicine Centre, The Affiliated Taizhou People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Taizhou, China
- Graduate School, Nanjing University Of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Tianyue Xu
- Reproductive Medicine Centre, The Affiliated Taizhou People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Taizhou, China
- Graduate School, Nanjing University Of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Na Liang
- Reproductive Medicine Centre, The Affiliated Taizhou People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Taizhou, China
- Graduate School, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Xiaoqi Hong
- Reproductive Medicine Centre, The Affiliated Taizhou People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Taizhou, China
- Graduate School, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Mingrui Xue
- Reproductive Medicine Centre, The Affiliated Taizhou People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Taizhou, China
- Graduate School, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Hongshan Ge
- Reproductive Medicine Centre, The Affiliated Taizhou People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Taizhou, China.
- Graduate School, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.
- Graduate School, Nanjing University Of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China.
- Graduate School, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China.
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2
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Pascua AM, Barbisan G, Nikoloff N, Carranza-Martín AC, Fabra MC, Anchordoquy JP, Balbi M, Giuliodori MJ, Furnus CC, Anchordoquy JM. Effect of estrogen and progesterone on intracellular free zinc and zinc transporter expression in bovine oviduct epithelial cells. Theriogenology 2024; 221:18-24. [PMID: 38521006 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2024.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024]
Abstract
Zinc (Zn) plays essential roles in numerous cellular processes. However, there is limited understanding of Zn homeostasis within the bovine reproductive system. This study investigated the influence of estradiol (E2) and progesterone (P4) on Zn transporter expression and intracellular free Zn levels in bovine oviduct epithelial cells (BOEC). For this purpose, cells were harvested from slaughtered cows and cultured in vitro. Intracellular Zn concentrations were measured using FluoZin-3AM staining, while real-time polymerase chain reaction assessed Zn transporter gene expression and quantification. Overall, our results confirmed the gene expression of all the evaluated Zn transporters (ZIP6, ZIP8, ZIP14, ZnT3, ZnT7 and ZnT9), denoted and the active role of E2 and P4 in intracellular Zn regulation. Our findings suggest an interaction between Zn, E2 and P4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Malen Pascua
- IGEVET - Instituto de Genética Veterinaria "Ing. Fernando N Dulout" (UNLP-CONICET LA PLATA), Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias UNLP, Calles 60 y 118, B1904AMA, La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Gisela Barbisan
- IGEVET - Instituto de Genética Veterinaria "Ing. Fernando N Dulout" (UNLP-CONICET LA PLATA), Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias UNLP, Calles 60 y 118, B1904AMA, La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina; YPF Tecnología (Y-TEC), Av. Del Petróleo S/N entre 129 y 143, CP 1923, Berisso, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Noelia Nikoloff
- IGEVET - Instituto de Genética Veterinaria "Ing. Fernando N Dulout" (UNLP-CONICET LA PLATA), Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias UNLP, Calles 60 y 118, B1904AMA, La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Ana Cristina Carranza-Martín
- IGEVET - Instituto de Genética Veterinaria "Ing. Fernando N Dulout" (UNLP-CONICET LA PLATA), Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias UNLP, Calles 60 y 118, B1904AMA, La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Mariana Carolina Fabra
- IGEVET - Instituto de Genética Veterinaria "Ing. Fernando N Dulout" (UNLP-CONICET LA PLATA), Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias UNLP, Calles 60 y 118, B1904AMA, La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Juan Patricio Anchordoquy
- IGEVET - Instituto de Genética Veterinaria "Ing. Fernando N Dulout" (UNLP-CONICET LA PLATA), Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias UNLP, Calles 60 y 118, B1904AMA, La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Cátedra de Fisiología, FCV-UNLP, Argentina
| | - Marianela Balbi
- IGEVET - Instituto de Genética Veterinaria "Ing. Fernando N Dulout" (UNLP-CONICET LA PLATA), Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias UNLP, Calles 60 y 118, B1904AMA, La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | - Cecilia Cristina Furnus
- IGEVET - Instituto de Genética Veterinaria "Ing. Fernando N Dulout" (UNLP-CONICET LA PLATA), Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias UNLP, Calles 60 y 118, B1904AMA, La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Juan Mateo Anchordoquy
- IGEVET - Instituto de Genética Veterinaria "Ing. Fernando N Dulout" (UNLP-CONICET LA PLATA), Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias UNLP, Calles 60 y 118, B1904AMA, La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Cátedra de Fisiología, FCV-UNLP, Argentina.
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3
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Sage MAG, Duffy DM. Novel Plasma Membrane Androgen Receptor SLC39A9 Mediates Ovulatory Changes in Cells of the Monkey Ovarian Follicle. Endocrinology 2024; 165:bqae071. [PMID: 38889246 PMCID: PMC11212825 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqae071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2024] [Revised: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
Follicular androgens are important for successful ovulation and fertilization. The classical nuclear androgen receptor (AR) is a transcription factor expressed in the cells of the ovarian follicle. Androgen actions can also occur via membrane androgen receptor SLC39A9. Studies in fish ovary demonstrated that androgens bind to SLC39A9 and increase intracellular zinc to regulate ovarian cell function. To determine if SLC39A9 is expressed and functional in the key cell types of the mammalian ovulatory follicle, adult female cynomolgus macaques underwent ovarian stimulation. Ovaries or ovarian follicular aspirates were harvested at 0, 12, 24, and 36 hours after human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). SLC39A9 and AR mRNA and protein were present in granulosa, theca, and vascular endothelial cells across the entire 40-hour ovulatory window. Testosterone, bovine serum albumin-conjugated testosterone (BSA-T), and androstenedione stimulated zinc influx in granulosa, theca, and vascular endothelial cells. The SLC39A9-selective agonist (-)-epicatechin also stimulated zinc influx in vascular endothelial cells. Taken together, these data support the conclusion that SLC39A9 activation via androgen induces zinc influx in key ovarian cells. Testosterone, BSA-T, and androstenedione each increased proliferation in vascular endothelial cells, indicating the potential involvement of SLC39A9 in ovulatory angiogenesis. Vascular endothelial cell migration also increased after treatment with testosterone, but not after treatment with BSA-T or androstenedione, suggesting that androgens stimulate vascular endothelial cell migration through nuclear AR but not SLC39A9. The presence of SLC39A9 receptors and SLC39A9 activation by follicular androstenedione concentrations suggests that androgen activation of ovarian SLC39A9 may regulate ovulatory changes in the mammalian follicle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan A G Sage
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA 23501, USA
| | - Diane M Duffy
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA 23501, USA
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4
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Lu H, Wang X, Zhang X, Yu W, Guo X, Wang R, Xie C, Ma J, Wang S. ZnT 9 Involvement in Estradiol-Modulated Zinc Homeostasis of the Human Follicular Microenvironment. Biol Trace Elem Res 2024; 202:1901-1909. [PMID: 37578601 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-023-03804-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/05/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023]
Abstract
Female subfertility has been a growing concern for reproductive health. Assisted reproductive technologies make pregnancy possible, but the outcome rate is still suboptimal. Zinc is an essential factor for fertility and development. Zinc levels in follicular fluids were measured by electrochemical method, and we found that zinc in the follicular fluids was related to high-quality embryo rate (R = 0.39, p = 0.01). Basal estradiol levels and estradiol levels on the day of HCG injection were negatively correlated with zinc concentrations in the follicular fluid (R = - 0.53, p < 0.001; R = - 0.32, p < 0.05), and estradiol promoted ZnT 9 protein expression in cumulus granulosa cells in vitro and in vivo. When the zinc level was at 3.63-3.85 μg/mL, follicular fluid samples had the highest SOD activity. Therefore, zinc played an important role in improving oocyte development by increasing antioxidant capacity. Our results suggested that estradiol affected zinc homeostasis in follicles by controlling the expression of ZnT 9, which in turn influenced the potential of oocytes to develop into good-quality embryos. This study to provide tangible improvements to patient outcomes will make it a focus of both scientific and translational efforts in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Lu
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Hebei Reproductive Health Hospital, Hebei Institute of Reproductive Health Science and Technology, Xinhua District, No. 480 Heping Road, Shijiazhuang, 050071, China
| | - Xueying Wang
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Hebei Reproductive Health Hospital, Hebei Institute of Reproductive Health Science and Technology, Xinhua District, No. 480 Heping Road, Shijiazhuang, 050071, China
| | - Xiujia Zhang
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Hebei Reproductive Health Hospital, Hebei Institute of Reproductive Health Science and Technology, Xinhua District, No. 480 Heping Road, Shijiazhuang, 050071, China
| | - Wenbo Yu
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Hebei Reproductive Health Hospital, Hebei Institute of Reproductive Health Science and Technology, Xinhua District, No. 480 Heping Road, Shijiazhuang, 050071, China
| | - Xiaoli Guo
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Hebei Reproductive Health Hospital, Hebei Institute of Reproductive Health Science and Technology, Xinhua District, No. 480 Heping Road, Shijiazhuang, 050071, China
| | - Ruhua Wang
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Hebei Reproductive Health Hospital, Hebei Institute of Reproductive Health Science and Technology, Xinhua District, No. 480 Heping Road, Shijiazhuang, 050071, China
| | - Congcong Xie
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Hebei Reproductive Health Hospital, Hebei Institute of Reproductive Health Science and Technology, Xinhua District, No. 480 Heping Road, Shijiazhuang, 050071, China
| | - Jing Ma
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Hebei Reproductive Health Hospital, Hebei Institute of Reproductive Health Science and Technology, Xinhua District, No. 480 Heping Road, Shijiazhuang, 050071, China
| | - Shusong Wang
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Hebei Reproductive Health Hospital, Hebei Institute of Reproductive Health Science and Technology, Xinhua District, No. 480 Heping Road, Shijiazhuang, 050071, China.
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5
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Kapper C, Oppelt P, Ganhör C, Gyunesh AA, Arbeithuber B, Stelzl P, Rezk-Füreder M. Minerals and the Menstrual Cycle: Impacts on Ovulation and Endometrial Health. Nutrients 2024; 16:1008. [PMID: 38613041 PMCID: PMC11013220 DOI: 10.3390/nu16071008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2024] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
The role of minerals in female fertility, particularly in relation to the menstrual cycle, presents a complex area of study that underscores the interplay between nutrition and reproductive health. This narrative review aims to elucidate the impacts of minerals on key aspects of the reproductive system: hormonal regulation, ovarian function and ovulation, endometrial health, and oxidative stress. Despite the attention given to specific micronutrients in relation to reproductive disorders, there is a noticeable absence of a comprehensive review focusing on the impact of minerals throughout the menstrual cycle on female fertility. This narrative review aims to address this gap by examining the influence of minerals on reproductive health. Each mineral's contribution is explored in detail to provide a clearer picture of its importance in supporting female fertility. This comprehensive analysis not only enhances our knowledge of reproductive health but also offers clinicians valuable insights into potential therapeutic strategies and the recommended intake of minerals to promote female reproductive well-being, considering the menstrual cycle. This review stands as the first to offer such a detailed examination of minerals in the context of the menstrual cycle, aiming to elevate the understanding of their critical role in female fertility and reproductive health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Celine Kapper
- Experimental Gynaecology, Obstetrics and Gynaecological Endocrinology, Johannes Kepler University Linz, Altenberger Strasse 69, 4040 Linz, Austria; (C.K.); (P.O.); (B.A.)
| | - Peter Oppelt
- Experimental Gynaecology, Obstetrics and Gynaecological Endocrinology, Johannes Kepler University Linz, Altenberger Strasse 69, 4040 Linz, Austria; (C.K.); (P.O.); (B.A.)
- Department for Gynaecology, Obstetrics and Gynaecological Endocrinology, Kepler University Hospital, Johannes Kepler University Linz, 4020 Linz, Austria
| | - Clara Ganhör
- Division of Pathophysiology, Institute of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Medical Faculty, Johannes Kepler University Linz, 4020 Linz, Austria
- Clinical Research Institute for Cardiovascular and Metabolic Diseases, Medical Faculty, Johannes Kepler University Linz, 4020 Linz, Austria
| | - Ayberk Alp Gyunesh
- Experimental Gynaecology, Obstetrics and Gynaecological Endocrinology, Johannes Kepler University Linz, Altenberger Strasse 69, 4040 Linz, Austria; (C.K.); (P.O.); (B.A.)
| | - Barbara Arbeithuber
- Experimental Gynaecology, Obstetrics and Gynaecological Endocrinology, Johannes Kepler University Linz, Altenberger Strasse 69, 4040 Linz, Austria; (C.K.); (P.O.); (B.A.)
| | - Patrick Stelzl
- Department for Gynaecology, Obstetrics and Gynaecological Endocrinology, Kepler University Hospital, Johannes Kepler University Linz, 4020 Linz, Austria
| | - Marlene Rezk-Füreder
- Experimental Gynaecology, Obstetrics and Gynaecological Endocrinology, Johannes Kepler University Linz, Altenberger Strasse 69, 4040 Linz, Austria; (C.K.); (P.O.); (B.A.)
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6
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Dong Z, Zhang L, Wang W, Jiang F, Ai H. ZnSO 4 Protects against premature ovarian failure through PI3K/AKT/GSK3β signaling pathway. Theriogenology 2023; 207:61-71. [PMID: 37269597 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.05.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Revised: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Zinc (Zn) is an essential trace element with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects and plays a crucial role in the female reproductive system. We aimed to investigate the protective effect of ZnSO4 on premature ovarian failure (POF) in SD rats and granulosa cells (GCs) treated with cisplatin. We also explored the underlying mechanisms. In vivo experiments showed that ZnSO4 increased the serum levels of Zn2+, increased estrogen (E2) secretion, and decreased follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) secretion in rats. ZnSO4 increased ovarian index, protected ovarian tissues and blood vessels, reduced excessive follicular atresia, and maintained follicular development. At the same time, ZnSO4 inhibited apoptosis in the ovaries. In vitro experiments showed that ZnSO4 combination treatment restored the intracellular levels of Zn2+ and inhibited the apoptosis of GCs. ZnSO4 inhibited cisplatin-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and preserved mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP). We also found that ZnSO4 protected against POF by activating the PI3K/AKT/GSK3β signaling pathway and reducing apoptosis of GCs. These data suggest that ZnSO4 may be a potential therapeutic agent for protecting the ovaries and preserving fertility during chemotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhe Dong
- Graduate School, Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou, Liaoning, China; Key Laboratory of Follicular Development and Reproductive Health of Liaoning Province, Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Lu Zhang
- Graduate School, Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou, Liaoning, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Graduate School, Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou, Liaoning, China
| | - Fan Jiang
- Graduate School, Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou, Liaoning, China
| | - Hao Ai
- Graduate School, Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou, Liaoning, China; Key Laboratory of Follicular Development and Reproductive Health of Liaoning Province, Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou, Liaoning Province, China; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou, Liaoning, China.
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7
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The Therapeutic and Diagnostic Potential of Phospholipase C Zeta, Oocyte Activation, and Calcium in Treating Human Infertility. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:ph16030441. [PMID: 36986540 PMCID: PMC10056371 DOI: 10.3390/ph16030441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2023] [Revised: 02/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Oocyte activation, a fundamental event during mammalian fertilisation, is initiated by concerted intracellular patterns of calcium (Ca2+) release, termed Ca2+ oscillations, predominantly driven by testis-specific phospholipase C zeta (PLCζ). Ca2+ exerts a pivotal role in not just regulating oocyte activation and driving fertilisation, but also in influencing the quality of embryogenesis. In humans, a failure of Ca2+ release, or defects in related mechanisms, have been reported to result in infertility. Furthermore, mutations in the PLCζ gene and abnormalities in sperm PLCζ protein and RNA, have been strongly associated with forms of male infertility where oocyte activation is deficient. Concurrently, specific patterns and profiles of PLCζ in human sperm have been linked to parameters of semen quality, suggesting the potential for PLCζ as a powerful target for both therapeutics and diagnostics of human fertility. However, further to PLCζ and given the strong role played by Ca2+ in fertilisation, targets down- and up-stream of this process may also present a significantly similar level of promise. Herein, we systematically summarise recent advancements and controversies in the field to update expanding clinical associations between Ca2+-release, PLCζ, oocyte activation and human fertility. We discuss how such associations may potentially underlie defective embryogenesis and recurrent implantation failure following fertility treatments, alongside potential diagnostic and therapeutic avenues presented by oocyte activation for the diagnosis and treatment of human infertility.
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Martino NA, Picardi E, Ciani E, D’Erchia AM, Bogliolo L, Ariu F, Mastrorocco A, Temerario L, Mansi L, Palumbo V, Pesole G, Dell’Aquila ME. Cumulus Cell Transcriptome after Cumulus-Oocyte Complex Exposure to Nanomolar Cadmium in an In Vitro Animal Model of Prepubertal and Adult Age. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:biology12020249. [PMID: 36829526 PMCID: PMC9953098 DOI: 10.3390/biology12020249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Revised: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
Cadmium (Cd), a highly toxic pollutant, impairs oocyte fertilization, through oxidative damage on cumulus cells (CCs). This study analysed the transcriptomic profile of CCs of cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) from adult and prepubertal sheep, exposed to Cd nanomolar concentration during in vitro maturation. In both age-groups, CCs of matured oocytes underwent RNA-seq, data analysis and validation. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified in adult (n = 99 DEGs) and prepubertal (n = 18 DEGs) CCs upon Cd exposure. Transcriptomes of adult CCs clustered separately between Cd-exposed and control samples, whereas prepubertal ones did not as observed by Principal Component Analysis. The transcriptomic signature of Cd-induced CC toxicity was identified by gene annotation and literature search. Genes associated with previous studies on ovarian functions and/or Cd effects were confirmed and new genes were identified, thus implementing the knowledge on their involvement in such processes. Enrichment and validation analysis showed that, in adult CCs, Cd acted as endocrine disruptor on DEGs involved in hormone biosynthesis, cumulus expansion, regulation of cell signalling, growth and differentiation and oocyte maturation, whereas in prepubertal CCs, Cd affected DEGs involved in CC development and viability and CC-oocyte communications. In conclusion, these DEGs could be used as valuable non-invasive biomarkers for oocyte competence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Antonio Martino
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnologies & Environment, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Via Edoardo Orabona, 70125 Bari, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0805443888
| | - Ernesto Picardi
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnologies & Environment, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Via Edoardo Orabona, 70125 Bari, Italy
| | - Elena Ciani
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnologies & Environment, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Via Edoardo Orabona, 70125 Bari, Italy
| | - Anna Maria D’Erchia
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnologies & Environment, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Via Edoardo Orabona, 70125 Bari, Italy
| | - Luisa Bogliolo
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, Via Vienna n. 2, 07100 Sassari, Italy
| | - Federica Ariu
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, Via Vienna n. 2, 07100 Sassari, Italy
| | - Antonella Mastrorocco
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnologies & Environment, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Via Edoardo Orabona, 70125 Bari, Italy
| | - Letizia Temerario
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnologies & Environment, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Via Edoardo Orabona, 70125 Bari, Italy
| | - Luigi Mansi
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnologies & Environment, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Via Edoardo Orabona, 70125 Bari, Italy
| | - Valeria Palumbo
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnologies & Environment, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Via Edoardo Orabona, 70125 Bari, Italy
| | - Graziano Pesole
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnologies & Environment, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Via Edoardo Orabona, 70125 Bari, Italy
| | - Maria Elena Dell’Aquila
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnologies & Environment, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Via Edoardo Orabona, 70125 Bari, Italy
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9
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Renteria M, Belkin O, Aickareth J, Jang D, Hawwar M, Zhang J. Zinc's Association with the CmPn/CmP Signaling Network in Breast Cancer Tumorigenesis. Biomolecules 2022; 12:1672. [PMID: 36421686 PMCID: PMC9687477 DOI: 10.3390/biom12111672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Revised: 11/05/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 08/24/2023] Open
Abstract
It is well-known that serum and cellular concentrations of zinc are altered in breast cancer patients. Specifically, there are notable zinc hyper-aggregates in breast tumor cells when compared to normal mammary epithelial cells. However, the mechanisms responsible for zinc accumulation and the consequences of zinc dysregulation are poorly understood. In this review, we detailed cellular zinc regulation/dysregulation under the influence of varying levels of sex steroids and breast cancer tumorigenesis to try to better understand the intricate relationship between these factors based on our current understanding of the CmPn/CmP signaling network. We also made some efforts to propose a relationship between zinc signaling and the CmPn/CmP signaling network.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Jun Zhang
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine (MTM), Texas Tech University Health Science Center El Paso, El Paso, TX 79905, USA
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10
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Peroxiredoxin 4 secreted by cumulus cells ameliorates the maturation of oocytes in vitro. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2022; 636:155-161. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2022.10.073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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11
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Dutta S, Gorain B, Choudhury H, Roychoudhury S, Sengupta P. Environmental and occupational exposure of metals and female reproductive health. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 29:62067-62092. [PMID: 34558053 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-021-16581-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Untainted environment promotes health, but the last few decades experienced steep upsurge in environmental contaminants posing detrimental physiological impact. The responsible factors mainly include the exponential growth of human population, havoc rise in industrialization, poorly planned urbanization, and slapdash environment management. Environmental degradation can increase the likelihood of human exposure to heavy metals, resulting in health consequences such as reproductive problems. As a result, research into metal-induced causes of reproductive impairment at the genetic, epigenetic, and biochemical levels must be strengthened further. These metals impact upon the female reproduction at all strata of its regulation and functions, be it development, maturation, or endocrine functions, and are linked to an increase in the causes of infertility in women. Chronic exposures to the heavy metals may lead to breast cancer, endometriosis, endometrial cancer, menstrual disorders, and spontaneous abortions, as well as pre-term deliveries, stillbirths. For example, endometriosis, endometrial cancer, and spontaneous abortions are all caused by the metalloestrogen cadmium (Cd); lead (Pb) levels over a certain threshold can cause spontaneous abortion and have a teratogenic impact; toxic amounts of mercury (Hg) have an influence on the menstrual cycle, which can lead to infertility. Impact of environmental exposure to heavy metals on female fertility is therefore a well-known fact. Thus, the underlying mechanisms must be explained and periodically updated, given the growing evidence on the influence of increasing environmental heavy metal load on female fertility. The purpose of this review is to give a concise overview of how heavy metal affects female reproductive health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sulagna Dutta
- Department of Oral Biology and Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, MAHSA University, Jenjarom, Malaysia
| | - Bapi Gorain
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Taylor's University, Subang Jaya, Malaysia
| | - Hira Choudhury
- School of Pharmacy, International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | | | - Pallav Sengupta
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Bioscience and Nursing, MAHSA University, Jenjarom, Malaysia.
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12
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Sammad A, Zhang H, Shi R, Dong Y, Luo H, Chen Z, Liu L, Guo G, Liu A, Wang Y. A Post-GWAS Functional Analysis Confirming Effects of Three BTA13 Genes CACNB2, SLC39A12, and ZEB1 on Dairy Cattle Reproduction. Front Genet 2022; 13:882951. [PMID: 35754833 PMCID: PMC9216173 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.882951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
In our previous GWAS of Chinese and Nordic dairy cattle, genes CACNB2, SLC39A12, and ZEB1 locating on BTA 13 were suggested as candidate genes for reproduction. In this study, validation of these associations was performed in an independent population with records of nine reproductive traits. More importantly, functions of these genes in the reproductive process were verified by employing the expression data of ovarian follicles. The potential variants within the three genes were firstly detected in 68 Chinese Holstein bulls, and then screened in 1,588 Chinese Holstein cows using the KASP (Kompetitive allele-specific PCR) method. There were nine variants with polymorphisms in CACNB2, five in SLC39A12, and four in ZEB1, respectively, of which one SNP was in the upstream regulatory region, two in exon region, four in downstream regulatory region, and 11 SNPs in intronic regions. Amongst the 18 variants, g.33267056T/G in CACNB2 explained the largest phenotypic variance for age at first calving (0.011%), interval from first to last insemination (0.004%), and calving ease (0.002%), while g.32751518G/A in SLC39A12 contributed the most to stillbirth in heifers (0.038%). Two haplotype blocks were constructed for CACNB2 while one each for SLC39A12 and ZEB1, which were significantly associated with five reproductive traits, including age at the first service, age at the first calving, calving ease in heifers and cows, and the interval from calving to the first insemination. We then studied the profile of gene expression in granulosa cells isolated from four developmental stages of ovarian follicles from eight dairy cows. All three genes were differentially expressed between ovarian follicles with different sizes (p < 0.05), indicating their potential roles in the reproductive process of dairy cows. This study successfully demonstrated the associations of three BTA 13 genes CACNB2, SLC39A12, and ZEB1 with reproduction and further examined their expression levels in ovarian follicles directly. These findings can be beneficial for the ongoing genomic selection program for reproductive traits which have long been considered as traits that are difficult to achieve genetic improvement due to the lack of efficient genetic markers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdul Sammad
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, MARA, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Hailiang Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, MARA, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Rui Shi
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, MARA, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Yixin Dong
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, MARA, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Hanpeng Luo
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, MARA, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Ziwei Chen
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, MARA, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Lin Liu
- Beijing Dairy Cattle Center, Beijing, China
| | - Gang Guo
- Beijing Sunlon Livestock Development Co. Ltd., Beijing, China
| | - Aoxing Liu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, MARA, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China.,Center for Quantitative Genetics and Genomics, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Yachun Wang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, MARA, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
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13
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Kageyama A, Suyama A, Kinoshita R, Ito J, Kashiwazaki N. Dynamic changes of intracellular zinc ion level during maturation, fertilization, activation, and development in mouse oocytes. Anim Sci J 2022; 93:e13759. [PMID: 35880318 DOI: 10.1111/asj.13759] [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: 05/24/2022] [Revised: 06/12/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Although it is well known that calcium oscillations are required for fertilization in all mammalian species studied to date, recent studies also showed the ejection of zinc into the extracellular milieu in a series of coordinated events, called "zinc spark," during mammalian fertilization. These results led us to the hypothesis that a zinc ion-dependent signal is important for oocyte maturation, fertilization (activation), and further embryonic development. In this study, we evaluated the amounts and localization of intracellular zinc ions during maturation, fertilization, activation, and embryonic development in mouse oocytes. Our results show that abundant zinc ions are present in both immature and mature oocytes. After in vitro fertilization, the amounts of zinc ions were dramatically decreased at the pronuclear (PN) stage. Artificial activation by cycloheximide, SrCl2 , and TPEN also reduced the amounts of zinc ions in the PN stage. On the other hand, PN embryos derived from sperm injection still showed high level of zinc ions. However, the amounts of zinc ions rapidly increased at the blastocysts regardless of activation method. We showed here that the amounts of zinc ions dramatically changed during maturation, fertilization, activation, and development in mouse oocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atsuko Kageyama
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Graduate School of Veterinary Sciences, Azabu University, Sagamihara, Japan
| | - Ayumi Suyama
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Graduate School of Veterinary Sciences, Azabu University, Sagamihara, Japan
| | - Ruka Kinoshita
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Azabu University, Sagamihara, Japan
| | - Junya Ito
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Graduate School of Veterinary Sciences, Azabu University, Sagamihara, Japan.,School of Veterinary Medicine, Azabu University, Sagamihara, Japan.,Center for Human and Animal Symbiosis Science, Azabu University, Sagamihara, Japan
| | - Naomi Kashiwazaki
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Graduate School of Veterinary Sciences, Azabu University, Sagamihara, Japan.,School of Veterinary Medicine, Azabu University, Sagamihara, Japan
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14
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Li J, Lyu L, Wen H, Li Y, Wang X, Zhang Y, Yao Y, Qi X. Comparative transcriptomic analysis of gonadal development and renewal in the ovoviviparous black rockfish (Sebastes schlegelii). BMC Genomics 2021; 22:874. [PMID: 34863110 PMCID: PMC8642938 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-021-08169-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2020] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The black rockfish (Sebastes schlegelii) has an ovoviviparous reproductive pattern and long-term sperm storage, resulting in asynchronous gonadal development between the sexes. However, the comprehensive understanding of gonadal development in black rockfish has not yet been achieved. Here, we studied gonadal development and germ cell renewal using histology and RNA-seq. RESULTS In this study, RNA-seq was performed on testes and ovaries to characterize key pathways and genes that are active during development and gamete maturation in black rockfish. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified and annotated in 4 comparisons (F_III vs. F_IV, F_IV vs. F_V, M_III vs. M_IV and M_IV vs. M_V). Based on analysis of DEGs enriched in the testis, 11 and 14 Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways were mapped to the M_III vs. M_IV group and the M_IV vs. M_V group, respectively. DEGs in ovarian development were also classified into 10 groups according to their biological functions. The expression patterns of the selected genes determined by qPCR were significantly correlated with the RNA-Seq results, supporting the reliability and accuracy of the RNA-Seq analysis. E2 levels showed down regulation from previtellogenesis to mature stage in female and T level showed down regulation from spermatogenesis to regressed stage in the male. CONCLUSIONS The categories "intercellular interaction and cytoskeleton", "molecule amplification" and "repair in the cell cycle" were revealed to be crucial in testis development and spermatogenesis, as was the biosynthesis of a series of metabolites. Our results provide comprehensive insight into black rockfish gonadal development and provide a basis for further study of reproductive physiology and molecular biology in ovoviviparity teleosts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianshuang Li
- College of Fishery, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266000, P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Mariculture, Ocean University of China, Ministry of Education, Qingdao, 266003, P. R. China
| | - Likang Lyu
- College of Fishery, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266000, P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Mariculture, Ocean University of China, Ministry of Education, Qingdao, 266003, P. R. China
| | - Haishen Wen
- College of Fishery, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266000, P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Mariculture, Ocean University of China, Ministry of Education, Qingdao, 266003, P. R. China
| | - Yun Li
- College of Fishery, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266000, P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Mariculture, Ocean University of China, Ministry of Education, Qingdao, 266003, P. R. China
| | - Xiaojie Wang
- College of Fishery, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266000, P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Mariculture, Ocean University of China, Ministry of Education, Qingdao, 266003, P. R. China
| | - Ying Zhang
- College of Fishery, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266000, P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Mariculture, Ocean University of China, Ministry of Education, Qingdao, 266003, P. R. China
| | - Yijia Yao
- College of Fishery, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266000, P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Mariculture, Ocean University of China, Ministry of Education, Qingdao, 266003, P. R. China
| | - Xin Qi
- College of Fishery, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266000, P. R. China.
- Key Laboratory of Mariculture, Ocean University of China, Ministry of Education, Qingdao, 266003, P. R. China.
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15
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Camaioni A, Massimiani M, Lacconi V, Magrini A, Salustri A, Sotiriou GA, Singh D, Bitounis D, Bocca B, Pino A, Barone F, Prota V, Iavicoli I, Scimeca M, Bonanno E, Cassee FR, Demokritou P, Pietroiusti A, Campagnolo L. Silica encapsulation of ZnO nanoparticles reduces their toxicity for cumulus cell-oocyte-complex expansion. Part Fibre Toxicol 2021; 18:33. [PMID: 34479598 PMCID: PMC8414698 DOI: 10.1186/s12989-021-00424-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2020] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Metal oxide nanoparticles (NPs) are increasingly used in many industrial and biomedical applications, hence their impact on occupational and public health has become a concern. In recent years, interest on the effect that exposure to NPs may exert on human reproduction has grown, however data are still scant. In the present work, we investigated whether different metal oxide NPs interfere with mouse cumulus cell-oocyte complex (COC) expansion. Methods Mouse COCs from pre-ovulatory follicles were cultured in vitro in the presence of various concentrations of two types of TiO2 NPs (JRC NM-103 and NM-104) and four types of ZnO NPs (JRC NM-110, NM-111, and in-house prepared uncoated and SiO2-coated NPs) and the organization of a muco-elastic extracellular matrix by cumulus cells during the process named cumulus expansion was investigated. Results We show that COC expansion was not affected by the presence of both types of TiO2 NPs at all tested doses, while ZnO NM-110 and NM-111 induced strong toxicity and inhibited COCs expansion at relatively low concentration. Medium conditioned by these NPs showed lower toxicity, suggesting that, beside ion release, inhibition of COC expansion also depends on NPs per se. To further elucidate this, we compared COC expansion in the presence of uncoated or SiO2-coated NPs. Differently from the uncoated NPs, SiO2-coated NPs underwent slower dissolution, were not internalized by the cells, and showed an overall lower toxicity. Gene expression analysis demonstrated that ZnO NPs, but not SiO2-coated ZnO NPs, affected the expression of genes fundamental for COC expansion. Dosimetry analysis revealed that the delivered-to-cell mass fractions for both NPs was very low. Conclusions Altogether, these results suggest that chemical composition, dissolution, and cell internalization are all responsible for the adverse effects of the tested NPs and support the importance of a tailored, safer-by-design production of NPs to reduce toxicity. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12989-021-00424-z.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonella Camaioni
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133, Rome, Italy
| | - Micol Massimiani
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133, Rome, Italy.,Saint Camillus International University of Health Sciences, Via di Sant'Alessandro, 8, 00131, Rome, Italy
| | - Valentina Lacconi
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Magrini
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonietta Salustri
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133, Rome, Italy
| | - Georgios A Sotiriou
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institute, SE-1, 71 77, Stockholm, Sweden.,Center for Nanotechnology and Nanotoxicology, Department of Environmental Health, T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, 655 Huntington Ave, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Dilpreet Singh
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institute, SE-1, 71 77, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Dimitrios Bitounis
- Center for Nanotechnology and Nanotoxicology, Department of Environmental Health, T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, 655 Huntington Ave, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Beatrice Bocca
- Department of Environment and Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Anna Pino
- Department of Environment and Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Flavia Barone
- Department of Environment and Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Valentina Prota
- Department of Environment and Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Ivo Iavicoli
- Department of Public Health, Section of Occupational Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, Via S. Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Manuel Scimeca
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133, Rome, Italy
| | - Elena Bonanno
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133, Rome, Italy
| | - Flemming R Cassee
- Department of Inhalation Toxicology, National Institute for Public Health and Environment, 3721, MA, Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | - Philip Demokritou
- Center for Nanotechnology and Nanotoxicology, Department of Environmental Health, T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, 655 Huntington Ave, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Antonio Pietroiusti
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133, Rome, Italy.,Saint Camillus International University of Health Sciences, Via di Sant'Alessandro, 8, 00131, Rome, Italy
| | - Luisa Campagnolo
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133, Rome, Italy.
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16
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Davis DN, Strong MD, Chambers E, Hart MD, Bettaieb A, Clarke SL, Smith BJ, Stoecker BJ, Lucas EA, Lin D, Chowanadisai W. A role for zinc transporter gene SLC39A12 in the nervous system and beyond. Gene 2021; 799:145824. [PMID: 34252531 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2021.145824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Revised: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The SLC39A12 gene encodes the zinc transporter protein ZIP12, which is expressed across many tissues and is highly abundant in the vertebrate nervous system. As a zinc transporter, ZIP12 functions to transport zinc across cellular membranes, including cellular zinc influx across the plasma membrane. Genome-wide association and exome sequencing studies have shown that brain susceptibility-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) intensity is associated with ZIP12 polymorphisms and rare mutations. ZIP12 is required for neural tube closure and embryonic development in Xenopus tropicalis. Frog embryos depleted of ZIP12 by antisense morpholinos develop an anterior neural tube defect and lack viability. ZIP12 is also necessary for neurite outgrowth and mitochondrial function in mouse neural cells. ZIP12 mRNA is increased in brain regions of schizophrenic patients. Outside of the nervous system, hypoxia induces ZIP12 expression in multiple mammalian species, including humans, which leads to endothelial and smooth muscle thickening in the lung and contributes towards pulmonary hypertension. Other studies have associated ZIP12 with other diseases such as cancer. Given that ZIP12 is highly expressed in the brain and that susceptibility-weighted MRI is associated with brain metal content, ZIP12 may affect neurological diseases and psychiatric illnesses such as Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, and schizophrenia. Furthermore, the induction of ZIP12 and resultant zinc uptake under pathophysiological conditions may be a critical component of disease pathology, such as in pulmonary hypertension. Drug compounds that bind metals like zinc may be able to treat diseases associated with impaired zinc homeostasis and altered ZIP12 function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle N Davis
- Oklahoma State University, Department of Nutritional Sciences, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA
| | - Morgan D Strong
- Oklahoma State University, Department of Nutritional Sciences, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA
| | - Emily Chambers
- Oklahoma State University, Department of Nutritional Sciences, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA
| | - Matthew D Hart
- Oklahoma State University, Department of Nutritional Sciences, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA
| | - Ahmed Bettaieb
- University of Tennessee, Department of Nutrition, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - Stephen L Clarke
- Oklahoma State University, Department of Nutritional Sciences, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA
| | - Brenda J Smith
- Oklahoma State University, Department of Nutritional Sciences, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA
| | - Barbara J Stoecker
- Oklahoma State University, Department of Nutritional Sciences, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA
| | - Edralin A Lucas
- Oklahoma State University, Department of Nutritional Sciences, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA
| | - Dingbo Lin
- Oklahoma State University, Department of Nutritional Sciences, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA
| | - Winyoo Chowanadisai
- Oklahoma State University, Department of Nutritional Sciences, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA.
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17
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Garner TB, Hester JM, Carothers A, Diaz FJ. Role of zinc in female reproduction. Biol Reprod 2021; 104:976-994. [PMID: 33598687 PMCID: PMC8599883 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioab023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2020] [Revised: 01/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Zinc is a critical component in a number of conserved processes that regulate female germ cell growth, fertility, and pregnancy. During follicle development, a sufficient intracellular concentration of zinc in the oocyte maintains meiotic arrest at prophase I until the germ cell is ready to undergo maturation. An adequate supply of zinc is necessary for the oocyte to form a fertilization-competent egg as dietary zinc deficiency or chelation of zinc disrupts maturation and reduces the oocyte quality. Following sperm fusion to the egg to initiate the acrosomal reaction, a quick release of zinc, known as the zinc spark, induces egg activation in addition to facilitating zona pellucida hardening and reducing sperm motility to prevent polyspermy. Symmetric division, proliferation, and differentiation of the preimplantation embryo rely on zinc availability, both during the oocyte development and post-fertilization. Further, the fetal contribution to the placenta, fetal limb growth, and neural tube development are hindered in females challenged with zinc deficiency during pregnancy. In this review, we discuss the role of zinc in germ cell development, fertilization, and pregnancy with a focus on recent studies in mammalian females. We further detail the fundamental zinc-mediated reproductive processes that have only been explored in non-mammalian species and speculate on the role of zinc in similar mechanisms of female mammals. The evidence collected over the last decade highlights the necessity of zinc for normal fertility and healthy pregnancy outcomes, which suggests zinc supplementation should be considered for reproductive age women at risk of zinc deficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tyler Bruce Garner
- Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, Integrative and Biomedical Physiology Program, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
| | - James Malcolm Hester
- Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, Integrative and Biomedical Physiology Program, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
| | - Allison Carothers
- Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, Integrative and Biomedical Physiology Program, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
| | - Francisco J Diaz
- Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, Integrative and Biomedical Physiology Program, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
- Department of Animal Science, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
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18
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Nasiadek M, Stragierowicz J, Klimczak M, Kilanowicz A. The Role of Zinc in Selected Female Reproductive System Disorders. Nutrients 2020; 12:E2464. [PMID: 32824334 PMCID: PMC7468694 DOI: 10.3390/nu12082464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2020] [Revised: 08/10/2020] [Accepted: 08/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Zinc is an essential microelement that plays many important functions in the body. It is crucial for the regulation of cell growth, hormone release, immunological response and reproduction. This review focuses on its importance in the reproductive system of women of reproductive and postmenopausal ages, not including its well described role in pregnancy. Only recently, attention has been drawn to the potential role of zinc in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), dysmenorrhea, or endometriosis. This review is mainly based on 36 randomized, controlled studies on reproductive, pre- and post-menopausal populations of women and on research trying to explain the potential impact of zinc and its supplementation in the etiology of selected female reproductive system disorders. In women with PCOS, zinc supplementation has a positive effect on many parameters, especially those related to insulin resistance and lipid balance. In primary dysmenorrhea, zinc supplementation before and during each menstrual cycle seems to be an important factor reducing the intensity of menstrual pain. On the other hand, little is known of the role of zinc in endometriosis and in postmenopausal women. Therefore, further studies explaining the potential impact of zinc and its supplementation on female reproductive system would be highly advisable and valuable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marzenna Nasiadek
- Department of Toxicology, Medical University of Lodz, Muszyńskiego 1, 90-151 Lodz, Poland; (J.S.); (M.K.)
| | | | | | - Anna Kilanowicz
- Department of Toxicology, Medical University of Lodz, Muszyńskiego 1, 90-151 Lodz, Poland; (J.S.); (M.K.)
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19
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Sekulovski N, Whorton AE, Shi M, Hayashi K, MacLean JA. Periovulatory insulin signaling is essential for ovulation, granulosa cell differentiation, and female fertility. FASEB J 2020; 34:2376-2391. [PMID: 31908002 PMCID: PMC7781071 DOI: 10.1096/fj.201901791r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2019] [Revised: 11/20/2019] [Accepted: 11/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Recent studies have demonstrated an essential role for insulin signaling in folliculogenesis as conditional ablation of Igf1r in primary follicles elicits defective follicle-stimulating hormone responsiveness blocking development at the preantral stage. Thus the potential role of insulin action in the periovulatory window and in the corpus luteum is unknown. To examine this, we generated conditional Insr,Igf1r, and double receptor knockout mice driven by Pgr-Cre. These models escape the preantral follicle block and in response to superovulatory gonadotropins exhibit normal distribution of ovarian follicles and corpora lutea. However, single ablation of Igf1r leads to subfertility and mice lacking both receptors are infertile. Double knockout mice have impaired oocyte development and ovulation. While some oocytes are released and fertilized, subsequent embryo development is retarded, and the embryos potentially fail to thrive due to lack of luteal support. In support of this, we found reduced expression of key enzymes in the steroid synthesis pathway and reduced serum progesterone. In addition to metabolic and steroidogenic pathways, RNA-sequencing analysis revealed transcription factor-3 as an important transcription factor downstream of insulin signaling. Collectively, these results highlight the importance of growth factors of the insulin family during two distinct windows of follicular development, ovulation, and luteinization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikola Sekulovski
- Department of Physiology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Life Science III, Carbondale, IL, USA
| | - Allison E Whorton
- Department of Physiology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Life Science III, Carbondale, IL, USA
| | - Mingxin Shi
- Department of Physiology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Life Science III, Carbondale, IL, USA
| | - Kanako Hayashi
- Department of Physiology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Life Science III, Carbondale, IL, USA
| | - James A MacLean
- Department of Physiology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Life Science III, Carbondale, IL, USA
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Pascua AM, Nikoloff N, Carranza AC, Anchordoquy JP, Quintana S, Barbisán G, Díaz S, Anchordoquy JM, Furnus CC. Reproductive hormones influence zinc homeostasis in the bovine cumulus-oocyte complex: Impact on intracellular zinc concentration and transporters gene expression. Theriogenology 2020; 146:48-57. [PMID: 32036060 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.01.054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2019] [Revised: 12/01/2019] [Accepted: 01/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Zinc (Zn) is a vital trace element for the body and its bioavailability influences numerous reproductive events. However, the mechanisms that regulate Zn homeostasis in the cumulus-oocyte complex (COC) are yet to be elucidated. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of estradiol 17-beta (E2), FSH and LH in Zn homeostasis regulation in bovine COC matured in vitro and Zn transporters gene expression. For this purpose, intracellular Zn levels in oocytes and cumulus cells (CC) were assessed using a Zn-specific fluorescent indicator. In addition, gene expression and sequencing of six Zn transporters (Slc39a6, Slc39a8, Slc39a14, Slc30a3, Slc30a7 and Slc30a9) were assessed. Our results demonstrated that the simultaneous presence of E2, FSH, and LH during oocyte maturation altered intracellular zinc levels and transporters expression in both oocytes and CC. Transporter's gene expression was different in oocytes and CC, possibly due to cell-specific changes in Zn levels during maturation. The interaction effects of Zn with hormonal treatments influenced the results. This study emphasizes that Slc39a6 is highly sensitive to hormone induction. Overall, the hormonal modulation of Zn homeostasis in the COC was evidenced. Also, a preponderant role of FSH as a modulator of Zn intracellular levels and transporter gene expression is suggested.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana M Pascua
- IGEVET - Instituto de Genética Veterinaria "Ing. Fernando N Dulout"(UNLP-CONICET LA PLATA), Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias UNLP, calles 60 y 118, B1904AMA La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Noelia Nikoloff
- IGEVET - Instituto de Genética Veterinaria "Ing. Fernando N Dulout"(UNLP-CONICET LA PLATA), Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias UNLP, calles 60 y 118, B1904AMA La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Ana C Carranza
- IGEVET - Instituto de Genética Veterinaria "Ing. Fernando N Dulout"(UNLP-CONICET LA PLATA), Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias UNLP, calles 60 y 118, B1904AMA La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Juan P Anchordoquy
- IGEVET - Instituto de Genética Veterinaria "Ing. Fernando N Dulout"(UNLP-CONICET LA PLATA), Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias UNLP, calles 60 y 118, B1904AMA La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Silvina Quintana
- CIAS - Centro de Investigación en Abejas Sociales, Departamento de Biología, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata, Funes 3350 (7600), Mar del Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Gisela Barbisán
- IGEVET - Instituto de Genética Veterinaria "Ing. Fernando N Dulout"(UNLP-CONICET LA PLATA), Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias UNLP, calles 60 y 118, B1904AMA La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Silvina Díaz
- IGEVET - Instituto de Genética Veterinaria "Ing. Fernando N Dulout"(UNLP-CONICET LA PLATA), Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias UNLP, calles 60 y 118, B1904AMA La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Juan M Anchordoquy
- IGEVET - Instituto de Genética Veterinaria "Ing. Fernando N Dulout"(UNLP-CONICET LA PLATA), Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias UNLP, calles 60 y 118, B1904AMA La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Cecilia C Furnus
- IGEVET - Instituto de Genética Veterinaria "Ing. Fernando N Dulout"(UNLP-CONICET LA PLATA), Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias UNLP, calles 60 y 118, B1904AMA La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Cátedra de Citología, Histología y Embriología "A" Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, calle 60 y 120 s/n, CP 1900, La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
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Sun T, Diaz FJ. Ovulatory signals alter granulosa cell behavior through YAP1 signaling. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2019; 17:113. [PMID: 31883523 PMCID: PMC6935177 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-019-0552-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2019] [Accepted: 11/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Hippo pathway plays critical roles in regulating cell proliferation, differentiation and survival among species. Hippo pathway proteins are expressed in the ovary and are involved in ovarian function. Deletion of Lats1 causes germ cell loss, ovarian stromal tumors and reduced fertility. Ovarian fragmentation induces nuclear YAP1 accumulation and increased follicular development. At ovulation, follicular cells stop proliferating and terminally differentiate, but the mechanisms controlling this transition are not completely known. Here we explore the role of Hippo signaling in mouse granulosa cells before and during ovulation. METHODS To assess the effect of oocytes on Hippo transcripts in cumulus cells, cumulus granulosa cells were cultured with oocytes and cumulus oocyte complexes (COCs) were cultured with a pSMAD2/3 inhibitor. Secondly, to evaluate the criticality of YAP1 on granulosa cell proliferation, mural granulosa cells were cultured with oocytes, YAP1-TEAD inhibitor verteporfin or both, followed by cell viability assay. Next, COCs were cultured with verteporfin to reveal its role during cumulus expansion. Media progesterone levels were measured using ELISA assay and Hippo transcripts and expansion signatures from COCs were assessed. Lastly, the effects of ovulatory signals (EGF in vitro and hCG in vivo) on Hippo protein levels and phosphorylation were examined. Throughout, transcripts were quantified by qRT-PCR and proteins were quantified by immunoblotting. Data were analyzed by student's t-test or one-way ANOVA followed by Tukey's post-hoc test or Dunnett's post-hoc test. RESULTS Our data show that before ovulation oocytes inhibit expression of Hippo transcripts and promote granulosa cell survival likely through YAP1. Moreover, the YAP1 inhibitor verteporfin, triggers premature differentiation as indicated by upregulation of expansion transcripts and increased progesterone production from COCs in vitro. In vivo, ovulatory signals cause an increase in abundance of Hippo transcripts and stimulate Hippo pathway activity as indicated by increased phosphorylation of the Hippo targets YAP1 and WWTR1 in the ovary. In vitro, EGF causes a transient increase in YAP1 phosphorylation followed by decreased YAP1 protein with only modest effects on WWTR1 in COCs. CONCLUSIONS Our results support a YAP1-mediated mechanism that controls cell survival and differentiation of granulosa cells during ovulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianyanxin Sun
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Francisco J Diaz
- Center for Reproductive Biology and Health and Department of Animal Science, The Pennsylvania State University, 313 FRL Building, University Park, PA, 16802, USA.
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A candidate gene analysis and GWAS for genes associated with maternal nondisjunction of chromosome 21. PLoS Genet 2019; 15:e1008414. [PMID: 31830031 PMCID: PMC6932832 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1008414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2019] [Revised: 12/26/2019] [Accepted: 09/11/2019] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Human nondisjunction errors in oocytes are the leading cause of pregnancy loss, and for pregnancies that continue to term, the leading cause of intellectual disabilities and birth defects. For the first time, we have conducted a candidate gene and genome-wide association study to identify genes associated with maternal nondisjunction of chromosome 21 as a first step to understand predisposing factors. A total of 2,186 study participants were genotyped on the HumanOmniExpressExome-8v1-2 array. These participants included 749 live birth offspring with standard trisomy 21 and 1,437 parents. Genotypes from the parents and child were then used to identify mothers with nondisjunction errors derived in the oocyte and to establish the type of error (meiosis I or meiosis II). We performed a unique set of subgroup comparisons designed to leverage our previous work suggesting that the etiologies of meiosis I and meiosis II nondisjunction differ for trisomy 21. For the candidate gene analysis, we selected genes associated with chromosome dynamics early in meiosis and genes associated with human global recombination counts. Several candidate genes showed strong associations with maternal nondisjunction of chromosome 21, demonstrating that genetic variants associated with normal variation in meiotic processes can be risk factors for nondisjunction. The genome-wide analysis also suggested several new potentially associated loci, although follow-up studies using independent samples are required. Approximately one of every 700 babies is born with trisomy 21—an extra copy of chromosome 21. Trisomy 21 is caused by the failure of chromosomes to segregate properly during meiosis, generally in the mother. Past studies have defined altered patterns of recombination along nondisjoined chromosomes as risk factors for human nondisjunction and model systems have clearly shown that specific genes involved recombination and other early meiotic processes play a role in the fidelity of chromosome segregation. However, no genome-wide genetic study (GWAS) has ever been conducted using maternal human nondisjunction as the disease phenotype. This study takes the first step to understand predisposing factors. We used chromosome 21 genotypes from the parents and child to identify mothers with nondisjunction errors derived in the oocyte and to establish the type of error (meiosis I or meiosis II). We then conducted a unique set of subgroup comparisons designed to leverage our previous work that shows that the etiologies of meiosis I and meiosis II nondisjunction differ for trisomy 21. Both the candidate gene study and the GWAS provide evidence that meiotic-specific structures and processes are vulnerable to genetic variants that lead to increased risk of human chromosome nondisjunction.
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Jo YJ, Lee IW, Jung SM, Kwon J, Kim NH, Namgoong S. Spire localization via zinc finger-containing domain is crucial for the asymmetric division of mouse oocyte. FASEB J 2018; 33:4432-4447. [PMID: 30557038 DOI: 10.1096/fj.201801905r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Zinc plays an essential role in mammalian oocyte maturation, fertilization, and early embryogenesis, and depletion of zinc impairs cell cycle control, asymmetric division, and cytokinesis in oocyte. We report that zinc, via the actin nucleator Spire, acts as an essential regulator of the actin cytoskeleton remodeling during mouse oocyte maturation and fertilization. Depletion of zinc in the mouse oocyte impaired cortical and cytoplasmic actin formation. Spire is colocalized with zinc-containing vesicles via its zinc finger-containing Fab1, YOTB, Vac 1, EEA1 (FYVE) domain. Improper localization of Spire by zinc depletion or mutations in the FYVE domain impair cytoplasmic actin mesh formations and asymmetric division and cytokinesis of oocyte. All 3 major domains of the Spire are required for its proper localization and activity. After fertilization or parthenogenetic activation, Spire localization was dramatically altered following zinc release from the oocyte. Collectively, our data reveal novel roles for zinc in the regulation of the actin nucleator Spire by controlling its localization in mammalian oocyte.-Jo, Y.-J., Lee, I.-W., Jung, S.-M., Kwon, J., Kim, N.-H., Namgoong, S. Spire localization via zinc finger-containing domain is crucial for the asymmetric division of mouse oocyte.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Jin Jo
- Department of Animal Science, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, North Chungcheong, South Korea
| | - In-Won Lee
- Department of Animal Science, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, North Chungcheong, South Korea
| | - Seung-Min Jung
- Department of Animal Science, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, North Chungcheong, South Korea
| | - JeongWoo Kwon
- Department of Animal Science, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, North Chungcheong, South Korea
| | - Nam-Hyung Kim
- Department of Animal Science, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, North Chungcheong, South Korea
| | - Suk Namgoong
- Department of Animal Science, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, North Chungcheong, South Korea
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24
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Li J, Wang S, Wang B, Wei H, Liu X, Hao J, Duan Y, Hua J, Zheng X, Feng X, Yan X. High-fat-diet impaired mitochondrial function of cumulus cells but improved the efficiency of parthenogenetic embryonic quality in mice. Anim Cells Syst (Seoul) 2018; 22:243-252. [PMID: 30460104 PMCID: PMC6138337 DOI: 10.1080/19768354.2018.1497707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2018] [Revised: 04/16/2018] [Accepted: 04/28/2018] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Global human health has been compromised by high-fat diets. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between a high-fat diet and parthenogenetic embryo quality. Mice fed a high-fat or a normal diet was used as treated or control groups, respectively. Estradiol (E2), total cholesterol (TC) and total triglyceride (TG) were detected by Enzyme-Linked ImmunoSorbent Assay (ELISA). Cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) were collected from the mice in the treated and control groups. The ultrastructure of COCs, the expression level of genes involved in mitochondrial and nuclear functions in cumulus cells and oocytes quality were evaluated with transmission electron microscopy, real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and artificial parthenogenesis, respectively. The results showed that the efficiency of parthenogenetic embryonic development in vitro was significantly higher in the treated group than in the control group (p < .05). The expression level of genes involved in mitochondrial function was lower in cumulus cells from the treated group than that from the control group (p < .05). The estradiol and cholesterol level in the serum and the expression level of P450 arom were higher in the treated group than the control group (p < .05). The reactive oxygen species (ROS) level was higher in culumus cells from the treated group than the control group, while the mitochondrial membrane potential was lower in cumulus cells from the treated group (p < .05). Accumulation of lipid droplets was only in cumulus but in oocyte, the results demonstrated that mitochondrial functions were impaired by a high-fat diet, but parthenogenetic embryonic development in vitro was improved, in controllable range of damage for the body.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingjing Li
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi'an, People's Republic of China
| | - Shuang Wang
- Department of Experimental Surgery of Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, People's Republic of China
| | - Bo Wang
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi'an, People's Republic of China
| | - Hao Wei
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi'an, People's Republic of China
| | - Xin Liu
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi'an, People's Republic of China
| | - Jun Hao
- Department of Experimental Surgery of Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, People's Republic of China
| | - Yanping Duan
- Department of Experimental Surgery of Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, People's Republic of China
| | - Jinlian Hua
- Biotechnology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaomin Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation and Maintenance, Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics in Ningxia, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, People's Republic of China.,Department of Histology and Embryology, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiuliang Feng
- Department of Experimental Surgery of Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, People's Republic of China
| | - Xingrong Yan
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi'an, People's Republic of China
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25
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Liu A, Wang Y, Sahana G, Zhang Q, Liu L, Lund MS, Su G. Genome-wide Association Studies for Female Fertility Traits in Chinese and Nordic Holsteins. Sci Rep 2017; 7:8487. [PMID: 28814769 PMCID: PMC5559619 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-09170-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2017] [Accepted: 07/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Reduced female fertility could cause considerable economic loss and has become a worldwide problem in the modern dairy industry. The objective of this study was to detect quantitative trait loci (QTL) for female fertility traits in Chinese and Nordic Holsteins using various strategies. First, single-trait association analyses were performed for female fertility traits in Chinese and Nordic Holsteins. Second, the SNPs with P-value < 0.005 discovered in Chinese Holsteins were validated in Nordic Holsteins. Third, the summary statistics from single-trait association analyses were combined into meta-analyses to: (1) identify common QTL for multiple fertility traits within each Holstein population; (2) detect SNPs which were associated with a female fertility trait across two Holstein populations. A large numbers of QTL were discovered or confirmed for female fertility traits. The QTL segregating at 31.4~34.1 Mb on BTA13, 48.3~51.9 Mb on BTA23 and 34.0~37.6 Mb on BTA28 shared between Chinese and Nordic Holsteins were further ascertained using a validation approach and meta-analyses. Furthermore, multiple novel variants identified in Chinese Holsteins were validated with Nordic data as well as meta-analyses. The genes IL6R, SLC39A12, CACNB2, ZEB1, ZMIZ1 and FAM213A were concluded to be strong candidate genes for female fertility in Holsteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aoxing Liu
- Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Ministry of Agriculture of China, National Engineering Laboratory of Animal Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China.,Center for Quantitative Genetics and Genomics, Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Aarhus University, 8830, Tjele, Denmark
| | - Yachun Wang
- Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Ministry of Agriculture of China, National Engineering Laboratory of Animal Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China.
| | - Goutam Sahana
- Center for Quantitative Genetics and Genomics, Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Aarhus University, 8830, Tjele, Denmark
| | - Qin Zhang
- Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Ministry of Agriculture of China, National Engineering Laboratory of Animal Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Lin Liu
- Beijing Dairy Cattle Center, Beijing, 100192, China
| | - Mogens Sandø Lund
- Center for Quantitative Genetics and Genomics, Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Aarhus University, 8830, Tjele, Denmark
| | - Guosheng Su
- Center for Quantitative Genetics and Genomics, Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Aarhus University, 8830, Tjele, Denmark.
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26
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Tian X, Anthony K, Diaz FJ. Transition Metal Chelator Induces Progesterone Production in Mouse Cumulus-Oocyte Complexes and Corpora Lutea. Biol Trace Elem Res 2017; 176:374-383. [PMID: 27604975 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-016-0841-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2016] [Accepted: 08/30/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Progesterone production is upregulated in granulosa cells (cumulus and mural) after the LH surge, but the intra-follicular mechanisms regulating this transition are not completely known. Recent findings show that the transition metal chelator, N,N,N',N'-tetrakis-(2-pyridylmethyl)-ethylenediamine (TPEN), impairs ovarian function. In this study, we provide evidence that chelating transition metals, including zinc, enhances progesterone production. The findings show that TPEN (transition metal chelator) increases abundance of Cyp11a1 and Star messenger RNA (mRNA) between 8- and 20-fold and progesterone production more than 3-fold in cultured cumulus-oocyte complexes (COC). Feeding a zinc-deficient diet for 10 days, but not 3 days, increased Star, Hsd3b, and prostaglandin F2 alpha receptor (Ptgfr) mRNA ~2.5-fold, suggesting that the effect of TPEN is through modulation of zinc availability. Progesterone from cumulus cells promotes oocyte developmental potential. Blocking progesterone production with epostane during maturation reduced subsequent blastocyst formation from 89 % in control to 18 % in epostane-treated complexes, but supplementation with progesterone restored blastocyst developmental potential to 94 %. Feeding a zinc-deficient diet for 5 days before ovulation did not affect the number of CL, STAR protein, or serum progesterone. However, incubating luteal tissue with TPEN increased abundance of Star, Hsd3b, and Ptgfr mRNA 2-3-fold and increased progesterone production 3-fold. TPEN is known to abolish SMAD2/3 signaling in cumulus cells. However, treatment of COC with the SMAD2/3 phosphorylation inhibitor, SB421542, did not by itself induce steroidogenic transcripts but did potentiate EGF-induced Star mRNA expression. Collectively, the results show that depletion of transition metals with TPEN acutely enhances progesterone biosynthesis in COC and luteal tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- X Tian
- Center for Reproductive Biology and Health and Department of Animal Science, Pennsylvania State University, 206 Henning Building, University Park, PA, 16802, USA
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 2236 Marsico Hall, 125 Mason Farm Road, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - K Anthony
- Center for Reproductive Biology and Health and Department of Animal Science, Pennsylvania State University, 206 Henning Building, University Park, PA, 16802, USA
| | - Francisco J Diaz
- Center for Reproductive Biology and Health and Department of Animal Science, Pennsylvania State University, 206 Henning Building, University Park, PA, 16802, USA.
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O LG, Park CE. The Expression of Solute carrier family membersGenes in Mouse Ovarian Developments. KOREAN JOURNAL OF CLINICAL LABORATORY SCIENCE 2017. [DOI: 10.15324/kjcls.2017.49.1.40] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Lee-Gyun O
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, St. Vincent Hospital, The Catholic University of Korea, Suwon, Korea
| | - Chang-Eun Park
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, Molecular Diagnostics Research Institute, Namseoul University, Cheonan, Korea
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28
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Genome-wide analysis identifies 12 loci influencing human reproductive behavior. Nat Genet 2016; 48:1462-1472. [PMID: 27798627 PMCID: PMC5695684 DOI: 10.1038/ng.3698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 159] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2016] [Accepted: 09/22/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The genetic architecture of human reproductive behavior-age at first birth (AFB) and number of children ever born (NEB)-has a strong relationship with fitness, human development, infertility and risk of neuropsychiatric disorders. However, very few genetic loci have been identified, and the underlying mechanisms of AFB and NEB are poorly understood. We report a large genome-wide association study of both sexes including 251,151 individuals for AFB and 343,072 individuals for NEB. We identified 12 independent loci that are significantly associated with AFB and/or NEB in a SNP-based genome-wide association study and 4 additional loci associated in a gene-based effort. These loci harbor genes that are likely to have a role, either directly or by affecting non-local gene expression, in human reproduction and infertility, thereby increasing understanding of these complex traits.
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29
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Dieci C, Lodde V, Labreque R, Dufort I, Tessaro I, Sirard MA, Luciano AM. Differences in cumulus cell gene expression indicate the benefit of a pre-maturation step to improve in-vitro bovine embryo production. Mol Hum Reprod 2016; 22:882-897. [PMID: 27559149 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaw055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2016] [Revised: 07/21/2016] [Accepted: 08/20/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Does the gene expression profile of cumulus cells (CC) accompanying oocytes with different degrees of chromatin compaction within the germinal vesicle (GV) reflect the oocyte's quality and response in culture during in-vitro embryo production (IVP). SUMMARY ANSWER The transcriptomic profile of the CC is related to oocyte competence, setting the stage for the development of customized pre-maturation strategies to improve IVP. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Oocytes complete the acquisition of their competence during antral follicle development. During this period, the chromatin configuration within the GV changes dynamically and is indicative of oocyte's developmental potential. The interactions between somatic and germ cells modulate chromatin morphology and function and are critical for acquisition of oocyte competence. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Bovine cumulus-oocyte complexes (COC) were isolated from 0.5 to 6 mm antral follicles. Surrounding CC were separated from the oocyte and classified as GV0, GV1, GV2 and GV3 according to the degree of the oocyte's chromatin compaction. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHOD RNA extracted from CC of each group was amplified and hybridized on a bovine embryo-specific 44 K Agilent slide. The CC_GV1, CC_GV2 and CC_GV3 classes were each hybridized against the CC_GV0 class, representing an early oocyte differentiation stage with poor development competence. The data were normalized and fold changes of the differentially expressed genes were determined. Microarray data were validated using quantitative RT-PCR on selected targets. Microarray data were further analyzed through: (i) between-group analysis (BGA), which classifies the samples according to their transcriptomic profiles; (ii) cluster analysis according to the expression profile of each gene; and (iii) Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA) to study gene regulation patterns and predicted functions. Furthermore, CC of each GV group were cultured and apoptotic cells were assessed after 3 h by caspase analysis. Finally, based on the analysis of CC transcriptomic profiles and the relationship between morphological features of the COC and the oocyte chromatin configuration, a customized, stage-dependent oocyte pre-maturation (pre-IVM) system was used to improve oocyte developmental potential before IVM. For this, the blastocyst rate and quality were assessed after in-vitro maturation and fertilization of pre-matured oocytes. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Overall, quantitative RT-PCR results of a subset of five selected genes were consistent with the microarray data. Clustering analysis generated 16 clusters representing the main profiles of transcription modulation. Of the 5571 significantly differentially expressed probes, the majority (25.49%) best fitted with cluster #6 (downregulation between CC_GV0 and CC_GV1 and stable low levels in successive groups). IPA identified the most relevant functions associated with each cluster. Genes included in cluster #1 were mostly related to biological processes such as 'cell cycle' and 'cell death and survival', whereas genes included in cluster #5 were mostly related to 'gene expression'. Interestingly, 'lipid metabolism' was the most significant function identified in clusters #6, #9 and #12. IPA of gene lists obtained from each contrast (i.e., CC_GV0 vs. CC_GV1; CC_GV0 vs. CC_GV2; CC_GV0 vs. CC_GV3) revealed that the main affected function in each contrast was 'cell death and survival'. Importantly, apoptosis was predicted to be inhibited in CC_GV1 and CC_GV2, but activated in CC_GV3. Caspase analysis indicated that a low percentage of CC_GV0 was prone to undergo apoptosis but apoptosis increased significantly in CC from oocytes with condensed chromatin, reaching a peak in CC_GV3 (P < 0.05). Finally, the tailored oocyte pre-maturation strategy, based on morphological features of the COC and the oocyte chromatin configuration, demonstrated that pre-IVM improved the developmental capability of oocytes at early stages of differentiation (GV1-enriched COC) but was detrimental for oocytes at more advanced stages of development (GV2 and GV3-enriched COC). LARGE SCALE DATA The data are available through the GEO series accession number GSE79886. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION This study was conducted with bovine samples. Whether or not the results are applicable to human oocytes requests further elucidation. Embryo transfer experiments are required to determine whether the improvement in blastocyst rates in the tailored system leads to increased live birth rates. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS The identification of multiple non-invasive biomarkers predictive of oocyte quality can greatly strengthen the pre-IVM approach aimed to improve IVM outcomes. These results have potentially important implications in treating human infertility and in developing breeding schemes for domestic mammals. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS This work was supported in part by NSERC Strategic Network EmbryoGENE, Canada and in part by CIG-Marie Curie Actions-Reintegration Grants within the EU 7FP (n. 303640, 'Pro-Ovum'). The authors declare no potential conflict of interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cecilia Dieci
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, Department of Health, Animal Science and Food Safety, University of Milan, Via Celoria 10, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Valentina Lodde
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, Department of Health, Animal Science and Food Safety, University of Milan, Via Celoria 10, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Rémi Labreque
- Centre de Recherche en Biologie de la Reproduction, Département des Sciences Animales, Université Laval, 2440, boulevard Hochelaga, Québec, (Québec) G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Isabelle Dufort
- Centre de Recherche en Biologie de la Reproduction, Département des Sciences Animales, Université Laval, 2440, boulevard Hochelaga, Québec, (Québec) G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Irene Tessaro
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, Department of Health, Animal Science and Food Safety, University of Milan, Via Celoria 10, 20133 Milan, Italy.,Present address: I.R.C.C.S. Istituto Ortopedico Galeazzi, Via R. Galeazzi, 4, 20161 Milan, Italy
| | - Marc-André Sirard
- Centre de Recherche en Biologie de la Reproduction, Département des Sciences Animales, Université Laval, 2440, boulevard Hochelaga, Québec, (Québec) G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Alberto M Luciano
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, Department of Health, Animal Science and Food Safety, University of Milan, Via Celoria 10, 20133 Milan, Italy
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Labrecque R, Fournier E, Sirard MA. Transcriptome analysis of bovine oocytes from distinct follicle sizes: Insights from correlation network analysis. Mol Reprod Dev 2016; 83:558-69. [DOI: 10.1002/mrd.22651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2016] [Accepted: 04/19/2016] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Rémi Labrecque
- Faculté des sciences de l'Agriculture et de l'Alimentation; Département des Sciences Animales; Centre de Recherche en Biologie de la Reproduction; Pavillon INAF; Université Laval; Québec QC Canada
| | - Eric Fournier
- Faculté des sciences de l'Agriculture et de l'Alimentation; Département des Sciences Animales; Centre de Recherche en Biologie de la Reproduction; Pavillon INAF; Université Laval; Québec QC Canada
| | - Marc-André Sirard
- Faculté des sciences de l'Agriculture et de l'Alimentation; Département des Sciences Animales; Centre de Recherche en Biologie de la Reproduction; Pavillon INAF; Université Laval; Québec QC Canada
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Rahiminia T, Faramarzi A, Khoradmehr A, Khalili MA. Cumulus co-culture system does not improve the in-vitro maturation (IVM) of oocytes in mice. MIDDLE EAST FERTILITY SOCIETY JOURNAL 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mefs.2015.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
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The zinc spark is an inorganic signature of human egg activation. Sci Rep 2016; 6:24737. [PMID: 27113677 PMCID: PMC4845039 DOI: 10.1038/srep24737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2015] [Accepted: 04/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Egg activation refers to events required for transition of a gamete into an embryo, including establishment of the polyspermy block, completion of meiosis, entry into mitosis, selective recruitment and degradation of maternal mRNA, and pronuclear development. Here we show that zinc fluxes accompany human egg activation. We monitored calcium and zinc dynamics in individual human eggs using selective fluorophores following activation with calcium-ionomycin, ionomycin, or hPLCζ cRNA microinjection. These egg activation methods, as expected, induced rises in intracellular calcium levels and also triggered the coordinated release of zinc into the extracellular space in a prominent “zinc spark.” The ability of the gamete to mount a zinc spark response was meiotic-stage dependent. Moreover, chelation of intracellular zinc alone was sufficient to induce cell cycle resumption and transition of a meiotic cell into a mitotic one. Together, these results demonstrate critical functions for zinc dynamics and establish the zinc spark as an extracellular marker of early human development.
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Liang X, Dempski RE, Burdette SC. Zn(2+) at a cellular crossroads. Curr Opin Chem Biol 2016; 31:120-5. [PMID: 27010344 PMCID: PMC4870122 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2016.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2015] [Accepted: 02/18/2016] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Zinc is an essential micronutrient for cellular homeostasis. Initially proposed to only contribute to cellular viability through structural roles and non-redox catalysis, advances in quantifying changes in nM and pM quantities of Zn(2+) have elucidated increasing functions as an important signaling molecule. This includes Zn(2+)-mediated regulation of transcription factors and subsequent protein expression, storage and release of intracellular compartments of zinc quanta into the extracellular space which modulates plasma membrane protein function, as well as intracellular signaling pathways which contribute to the immune response. This review highlights some recent advances in our understanding of zinc signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaomeng Liang
- Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Worcester, MA 01609-2280, United States
| | - Robert E Dempski
- Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Worcester, MA 01609-2280, United States
| | - Shawn C Burdette
- Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Worcester, MA 01609-2280, United States.
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The fertilization-induced zinc spark is a novel biomarker of mouse embryo quality and early development. Sci Rep 2016; 6:22772. [PMID: 26987302 PMCID: PMC4796984 DOI: 10.1038/srep22772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2015] [Accepted: 02/12/2016] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Upon activation, mammalian eggs release billions of zinc ions in an exocytotic event termed the “zinc spark.” The zinc spark is dependent on and occurs coordinately with intracellular calcium transients, which are tightly associated with embryonic development. Thus, we hypothesized that the zinc spark represents an early extracellular physicochemical marker of the developmental potential of the zygote. To test this hypothesis, we monitored zinc exocytosis in individual mouse eggs following parthenogenetic activation or in vitro fertilization (IVF) and tracked their development. Retrospective analysis of zinc spark profiles revealed that parthenotes and zygotes that developed into blastocysts released more zinc than those that failed to develop. Prospective selection of embryos based on their zinc spark profile significantly improved developmental outcomes and more than doubled the percentage of embryos that reached the blastocyst stage. Moreover, the zinc spark profile was also associated with embryo quality as the total cell number in the resulting morulae and blastocysts positively correlated with the zinc spark amplitude (R = 0.9209). Zinc sparks can thus serve as an early biomarker of zygote quality in mouse model.
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Sengupta P, Banerjee R, Nath S, Das S, Banerjee S. Metals and female reproductive toxicity. Hum Exp Toxicol 2014; 34:679-97. [PMID: 25425549 DOI: 10.1177/0960327114559611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Research into occupational exposure of metals and consequences of reproductive systems has made imperative scientific offerings in the preceding few decades. Early research works focused on possible effects on the reproductive functions rather than the complete reproductive health of the woman. Later, it was realized that metals, as reproductive toxins, may also induce hormonal changes affecting other facets of reproductive health such as the menstrual cycle, ovulation, and fertility. Concern is now shifting from considerations for the pregnant woman to the entire spectrum of occupational health threats and thus reproductive health among women.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Sengupta
- Department of Physiology, Vidyasagar College for Women, University of Calcutta
| | - R Banerjee
- Department of Physiology, University of Calcutta, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - S Nath
- Department of Genetics, University of Calcutta, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - S Das
- Department of Physiology, University of Calcutta, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - S Banerjee
- Department of Physiology, University of Calcutta, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
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Kong BY, Duncan FE, Que EL, Kim AM, O'Halloran TV, Woodruff TK. Maternally-derived zinc transporters ZIP6 and ZIP10 drive the mammalian oocyte-to-egg transition. Mol Hum Reprod 2014; 20:1077-89. [PMID: 25143461 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gau066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Rapid cellular zinc influx regulates early mammalian development during the oocyte-to-egg transition through modulation of the meiotic cell cycle. Despite the physiological necessity of this zinc influx, the molecular mechanisms that govern such accumulation are unknown. Here we show that the fully grown mammalian oocyte does not employ a transcriptionally based mechanism of zinc regulation involving metal response element-binding transcription factor-1 (MTF-1), as demonstrated by a lack of MTF-1 responsiveness to environmental zinc manipulation. Instead, the mammalian oocyte controls zinc uptake through two maternally derived and cortically distributed zinc transporters, ZIP6 and ZIP10. Targeted disruption of these transporters using several approaches during meiotic maturation perturbs the intracellular zinc quota and results in a cell cycle arrest at a telophase I-like state. This arrest phenocopies established models of zinc insufficiency during the oocyte-to-egg transition, indicating the essential function of these maternally expressed transporters. Labile zinc localizes to punctate cytoplasmic structures in the human oocyte, and ZIP6 and ZIP10 are enriched in the cortex. Altogether, we demonstrate a mechanism of metal regulation required for female gamete development that may be evolutionarily conserved.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Y Kong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, 250 East Superior Street, Suite 3-2303, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - F E Duncan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, 250 East Superior Street, Suite 3-2303, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - E L Que
- The Chemistry of Life Processes Institute and Department of Chemistry, Northwestern University, 2145 Sheridan Road, Evanston, IL 60208, USA
| | - A M Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, 250 East Superior Street, Suite 3-2303, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - T V O'Halloran
- The Chemistry of Life Processes Institute and Department of Chemistry, Northwestern University, 2145 Sheridan Road, Evanston, IL 60208, USA Department of Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, 2205 Tech Drive, Hogan 2-100, Evanston, IL 60208, USA
| | - T K Woodruff
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, 250 East Superior Street, Suite 3-2303, Chicago, IL 60611, USA Department of Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, 2205 Tech Drive, Hogan 2-100, Evanston, IL 60208, USA
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Zinc depletion activates porcine metaphase II oocytes independently of the protein kinase C pathway. In Vitro Cell Dev Biol Anim 2014; 50:945-51. [DOI: 10.1007/s11626-014-9784-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2014] [Accepted: 05/20/2014] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Zinc regulates meiotic resumption in porcine oocytes via a protein kinase C-related pathway. PLoS One 2014; 9:e102097. [PMID: 25019390 PMCID: PMC4096513 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0102097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2014] [Accepted: 06/14/2014] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Zinc is an extremely important trace element that plays important roles in several biological processes. However, the function of zinc in meiotic division of porcine oocytes is unknown. In this study, we investigated the role of zinc during meiotic resumption in in vitro matured porcine oocytes. During meiotic division, a massive release of zinc was observed. The level of free zinc in the cytoplasm significantly increased during maturation. Depletion of zinc using N, N, N′, N′-tetrakis (2-pyridylmethyl) ethylenediamine (TPEN), a Zn2+ chelator, blocked meiotic resumption in a dose dependent manner. The level of phosphorylated mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK) and p34cdc2 kinase activity were reduced when zinc was depleted. Moreover, zinc depletion reduced the levels of phosphorylated protein kinase C (PKC) substrates in a dose dependent manner. Real-time PCR analysis showed that expression of the MAPK- and maturation promoting factor related genes C-mos, CyclinB1, and Cdc2 was downregulated following zinc depletion. Treatment with the PKC agonist phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) increased phosphorylation of PKC substrates and MAPK and increased p34cdc2 kinase activity. This rescued the meiotic arrest, even in the presence of TPEN. Activation of PKC by PMA increased the level of zinc in the cytoplasm. These data demonstrate that zinc is required for meiotic resumption in porcine oocytes, and this appears to be regulated via a PKC related pathway.
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Abstract
The vast knowledge of the physiologic functions of zinc in at least 3000 proteins and the recent recognition of fundamental regulatory functions of zinc(II) ions released from cells or within cells links this nutritionally essential metal ion to numerous diseases. However, this knowledge so far has had remarkably limited impact on diagnosing, preventing, and treating human diseases. One major roadblock is a lack of suitable biomarkers that would detect changes in cellular zinc metabolism and relate them to specific disease outcomes. It is not only the right amount of zinc in the diet that maintains health. At least as important is the proper functioning of the dozens of proteins that control cellular zinc homeostasis, regulate intracellular traffic of zinc between the cytosol and vesicles/organelles, and determine the fluctuations of signaling zinc(II) ions. Cellular zinc deficiencies or overloads, a term referring to zinc concentrations exceeding the cellular zinc buffering capacity, compromise the redox balance. Zinc supplementation may not readily remedy zinc deficiency if other factors limit the capability of a cell to control zinc. The role of zinc in human diseases requires a general understanding of the wide spectrum of functions of zinc, how zinc is controlled, how it interacts with the metabolism of other metal ions, in particular copper and iron, and how perturbation of specific zinc-dependent molecular processes causes disease and influences the progression of disease.
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