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Yan J, Wu T, Zhang J, Gao Y, Wu JM, Wang S. Revolutionizing the female reproductive system research using microfluidic chip platform. J Nanobiotechnology 2023; 21:490. [PMID: 38111049 PMCID: PMC10729361 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-023-02258-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Comprehensively understanding the female reproductive system is crucial for safeguarding fertility and preventing diseases concerning women's health. With the capacity to simulate the intricate physio- and patho-conditions, and provide diagnostic platforms, microfluidic chips have fundamentally transformed the knowledge and management of female reproductive health, which will ultimately promote the development of more effective assisted reproductive technologies, treatments, and drug screening approaches. This review elucidates diverse microfluidic systems in mimicking the ovary, fallopian tube, uterus, placenta and cervix, and we delve into the culture of follicles and oocytes, gametes' manipulation, cryopreservation, and permeability especially. We investigate the role of microfluidics in endometriosis and hysteromyoma, and explore their applications in ovarian cancer, endometrial cancer and cervical cancer. At last, the current status of assisted reproductive technology and integrated microfluidic devices are introduced briefly. Through delineating the multifarious advantages and challenges of the microfluidic technology, we chart a definitive course for future research in the woman health field. As the microfluidic technology continues to evolve and advance, it holds great promise for revolutionizing the diagnosis and treatment of female reproductive health issues, thus propelling us into a future where we can ultimately optimize the overall wellbeing and health of women everywhere.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinfeng Yan
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Ministry of Education, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1095, Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China
- State Key Laboratory of Materials Processing and Die & Mould Technology, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China
- Engineering Research Center of Ceramic Materials for Additive Manufacturing, Ministry of Education, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Tong Wu
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Ministry of Education, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1095, Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Jinjin Zhang
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Ministry of Education, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1095, Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Yueyue Gao
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Ministry of Education, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1095, Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Jia-Min Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Materials Processing and Die & Mould Technology, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China.
- Engineering Research Center of Ceramic Materials for Additive Manufacturing, Ministry of Education, Wuhan, 430074, China.
| | - Shixuan Wang
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Ministry of Education, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1095, Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China.
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Bang S, Qamar AY, Fang X, Kim H, Han A, Kang H, Cha D, Shim J, Kim JH, Choi K, Yun SH, Lee H, Park HS, Kim SI, Kim JY, Saadeldin IM, Lee S, Cho J. Effects of extracellular vesicles derived from steroids-primed oviductal epithelial cells on porcine in vitro embryonic development. Theriogenology 2023; 209:213-223. [PMID: 37437338 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.07.006] [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: 04/13/2023] [Revised: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023]
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) play an active role in regulating different physiological events, however, endocrine control of EVs cargo contents remain poorly understood. In this study, we aimed to isolate EVs from the porcine oviductal epithelial cells (POECs) that were primed with steroid hormones including estradiol (E2) and progesterone (P4), mimicking the in vivo conditions of the reproductive cycle and studied their effects on in vitro produced embryonic development. For this purpose, POECs were treated either with 0 concentration (control) or two different combinations of E2 and P4 including 50 pg/mL E2 + 0.5 ng/mL P4 (group H1), and 10 pg/mL E2 + 35 ng/mL P4 (group H2). Embryos were prepared after in vitro maturation either by parthenogenetic activation or somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) technique. Treating parthenogenetic embryo with EVs, led a significantly higher rate of the blastocyst formation in the group supplemented with each EVs, compared to the control group. In addition, TUNEL assay and gene expression level analysis revealed that apoptosis was significantly reduced in the H2 EVs group. Furthermore, EVs from hormone-primed POECs improved the formation rate of porcine SCNT embryos compared to the control group. While in each EVs supplemented group (control EVs, H1 EVs, H2 EVs), the expression of cell reprogramming-related genes in cloned embryos showed a tendency of increase, the effect was stronger in H1 EVs and H2 EVs. In conclusion, EVs derived from POECs cultured in hormonal conditions simulating the in vivo environment had a positive effect on porcine blastocysts formation, which will likely facilitate in the production of cloned embryos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seonggyu Bang
- Laboratory of Theriogenology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Ahmad Yar Qamar
- College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Jhang, Sub-Campus of University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, 54000, Pakistan
| | - Xun Fang
- Laboratory of Theriogenology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Heyyoung Kim
- Laboratory of Theriogenology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, Republic of Korea; Division of Aging Research, Gwangju Center, Korea Basic Science Institute (KBSI), 49 Dosicheomdansaneop-ro, Nam-gu, Gwangju, 61751, Republic of Korea
| | - Ayeong Han
- Laboratory of Theriogenology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Heejae Kang
- Laboratory of Theriogenology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Dabin Cha
- Laboratory of Theriogenology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Joohyun Shim
- Department of Transgenic Animal Research, Optipharm, Inc., Chungcheongbuk-do, Cheongju-si, 28158, Republic of Korea
| | - Jun-Hyeong Kim
- Department of Transgenic Animal Research, Optipharm, Inc., Chungcheongbuk-do, Cheongju-si, 28158, Republic of Korea
| | - Kimyung Choi
- Department of Transgenic Animal Research, Optipharm, Inc., Chungcheongbuk-do, Cheongju-si, 28158, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung Ho Yun
- Korea Basic Science Institute (KBSI), Ochang, 28119, Republic of Korea
| | - Hayoung Lee
- Korea Basic Science Institute (KBSI), Ochang, 28119, Republic of Korea
| | - Hye Sun Park
- Korea Basic Science Institute (KBSI), Ochang, 28119, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung Il Kim
- Korea Basic Science Institute (KBSI), Ochang, 28119, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae-Young Kim
- Graduate School of Analytical Science and Technology (GRAST), Chungnam National University, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Islam M Saadeldin
- Laboratory of Theriogenology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Sanghoon Lee
- Laboratory of Theriogenology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Jongki Cho
- Laboratory of Theriogenology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, Republic of Korea.
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Besenfelder U, Havlicek V. The interaction between the environment and embryo development in assisted reproduction. Anim Reprod 2023; 20:e20230034. [PMID: 37700910 PMCID: PMC10494886 DOI: 10.1590/1984-3143-ar2023-0034] [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: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023] Open
Abstract
It can be assumed that the natural processes of selection and developmental condition in the animal provide the best prerequisites for embryogenesis resulting in pregnancy and subsequent birth of a healthy neonate. In contrast, circumventing the natural selection mechanisms and all developmental conditions in a healthy animal harbors the risk of counteracting, preventing or reducing the formation of embryos or substantially restricting their genesis. Considering these facts, it seems to be obvious that assisted reproductive techniques focusing on early embryonic stages serve an expanded and unselected germ cell pool of oocytes and sperm cells, and include the culture of embryos outside their natural habitat during and after fertilization for manipulation and diagnostic purposes, and for storage. A significant influence on the early embryonic development is seen in the extracorporeal culture of bovine embryos (in vitro) or stress on the animal organism (in vivo). The in vitro production per se and metabolic as well as endocrine changes in the natural environment of embryos represent adequate models and serve for a better understanding. The purpose of this review is to give a brief presentation of recent techniques aimed at focusing more on the complex processes in the Fallopian tube to contrast in vivo and in vitro prerequisites and abnormalities in early embryonic development and serve to identify potential new ways to make the use of ARTs more feasible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Urban Besenfelder
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Animal Breeding and Genetics, Vienna, Austria
| | - Vitezslav Havlicek
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Animal Breeding and Genetics, Vienna, Austria
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Wang X, Liu Q, Zhou L, Song Z, Li J. Effect of ovarian fluid on sperm performance in teleost with internal and external fertilization strategies. Theriogenology 2023; 206:189-196. [PMID: 37229958 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.05.003] [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: 04/26/2022] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Ovarian fluid is essential for successful fertilization by maintaining the viability, motility, and velocity of sperm. The organic compounds and inorganic ions in ovarian fluid significantly influence spermatozoa's motility, velocity, and longevity. However, the effect of ovarian fluid on sperm performance is limited in teleost fish. In this study, the effect of ovarian fluid on sperm performance and its components in external fertilization species (Scophthalmus maximus, turbot) and internal fertilization species (Sebastes schlegelii, black rockfish) was investigated using computer-assisted sperm analysis, high-performance liquid chromatography, and metabolome analysis. The ovarian fluid had a distinct and species-specific effect on both species. In the black rockfish, the ovarian fluid from turbot significantly increased sperm motility (74.07% ± 4.09%), as well as VCL (45 ± 1.67 μm/s), VAP (40.17 ± 1.6 μm/s), and VSL (36.67 ± 1.86 μm/s), and longevity (352 ± 11.31 min) (P < 0.05). In the turbot, only the longevity (71.33 ± 5.69 min) and fertilization rate (65.27% ± 11.59%) showed significantly improvement (P < 0.05). The ovarian fluid was rich in organic compounds, suggesting enrichment in the glycolysis/gluconeogenesis pathways. The results suggest that glycometabolism plays a crucial role in improving sperm performance in teleost with internal fertilization. Thus, incorporating ovarian fluid into the sperm activation medium can enhance artificial fertilization in fish breeding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xueying Wang
- CAS and Shandong Province Key Laboratory of Experimental Marine Biology, Center for Ocean Mega-Science, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, China; Laboratory for Marine Biology and Biotechnology, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao, 266071, China
| | - Qinghua Liu
- CAS and Shandong Province Key Laboratory of Experimental Marine Biology, Center for Ocean Mega-Science, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, China; Laboratory for Marine Biology and Biotechnology, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao, 266071, China.
| | - Li Zhou
- CAS and Shandong Province Key Laboratory of Experimental Marine Biology, Center for Ocean Mega-Science, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, China; Laboratory for Marine Biology and Biotechnology, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao, 266071, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Zongcheng Song
- Weihai Shenghang Aquatic Product Science and Technology Co. Ltd., Weihai, China
| | - Jun Li
- CAS and Shandong Province Key Laboratory of Experimental Marine Biology, Center for Ocean Mega-Science, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, China; Laboratory for Marine Biology and Biotechnology, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao, 266071, China.
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Wang S, Larina IV. Dynamics of gametes and embryos in the oviduct: what can in vivo imaging reveal? Reproduction 2023; 165:R25-R37. [PMID: 36318634 PMCID: PMC9827618 DOI: 10.1530/rep-22-0250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
In brief In vivo imaging of gametes and embryos in the oviduct enables new studies of the native processes that lead to fertilization and pregnancy. This review article discusses recent advancements in the in vivo imaging methods and insights which contribute to understanding the oviductal function. Abstract Understanding the physiological dynamics of gametes and embryos in the fallopian tube (oviduct) has significant implications for managing reproductive disorders and improving assisted reproductive technologies. Recent advancements in imaging of the mouse oviduct in vivo uncovered fascinating dynamics of gametes and embryos in their native states. These new imaging approaches and observations are bringing exciting momentum to uncover the otherwise-hidden processes orchestrating fertilization and pregnancy. For mechanistic investigations, in vivo imaging in genetic mouse models enables dynamic phenotyping of gene functions in the reproductive process. Here, we review these imaging methods, discuss insights recently revealed by in vivo imaging, and comment on emerging directions, aiming to stimulate new in vivo studies of reproductive dynamics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shang Wang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Stevens Institute of Technology, Hoboken, New Jersey 07030, U.S.A
| | - Irina V. Larina
- Department of Integrative Physiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, U.S.A
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Párraga-Ros E, Latorre-Reviriego R, Aparicio-González M, Boronat-Belda T, López-Albors O. The immunolocalization of HIF-2α, GLUT1 and CAIX in porcine oviduct during the estrous cycle. Anat Rec (Hoboken) 2023; 306:176-186. [PMID: 35684983 PMCID: PMC10084220 DOI: 10.1002/ar.25014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Revised: 05/30/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Oxygen (O2 ) rates in the oviduct are essential to human and animal reproduction. These rates are regulated by the activity of hypoxia markers such as the hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs), the glucose transporters (GLUT), and the carbonic anhydrase (CA). In the porcine model, scarce studies have been reported regarding these markers and their effects in reproduction are unknown. The objective was to characterize the immunolocalization of HIF-2α, GLUT1, and CAIX in porcine oviducts throughout the estrous cycle. Oviducts (ampulla and isthmus) of adult sows (n = 45) were collected for histological and immunohistochemical analysis with HIF-2α, GLUT1, and CAIX markers. The percentage of immunopositive area was quantified, and the differences among phases of the estrous cycle were analyzed (folicular, early luteal, and late luteal). The three markers showed epithelial presence mainly. Significantly lower expression of HIF-2α was found in the luteal phases, especially in the isthmus. GLUT1 expression did not change throughout the estrous cycle, but differences were found between the ampulla and isthmus. CAIX expression showed the highest, with a significant downward trend throughout estrous cycle. The ubiquitous expression of hypoxia markers shows the porcine oviduct physiology in relation to O2 . The differential expression of HIF-2α, GLUT1, and CAIX in different subcompartments of the oviduct throughout the estrous cycle contributes to improve the knowledge of the cell physiology of the oviduct, which can be useful in fertilization studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ester Párraga-Ros
- Anatomy and Comparative Pathology Department, University of Murcia, International Excellence Campus for Higher Education and Research (Campus Mare Nostrum), Murcia, Spain
| | - Rafael Latorre-Reviriego
- Anatomy and Comparative Pathology Department, University of Murcia, International Excellence Campus for Higher Education and Research (Campus Mare Nostrum), Murcia, Spain
| | - Mónica Aparicio-González
- Anatomy and Comparative Pathology Department, University of Murcia, International Excellence Campus for Higher Education and Research (Campus Mare Nostrum), Murcia, Spain
| | - Talía Boronat-Belda
- Unit of Cell Physiology and Nutrition, Miguel Hernández University, Alicante, Spain
| | - Octavio López-Albors
- Anatomy and Comparative Pathology Department, University of Murcia, International Excellence Campus for Higher Education and Research (Campus Mare Nostrum), Murcia, Spain
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Estefanía M, Aldana G, Marianela M, Agustina LC, José MM, Fabián P, Sergio G. Lactoferrin affects in vitro and in vivo fertilization and implantation in rats. Biometals 2022; 36:575-585. [PMID: 36326924 DOI: 10.1007/s10534-022-00460-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Lactoferrin (LF) is present in the oviduct, reduces in vitro gamete interaction, and affects sperm capacitation parameters in humans. Our aim was to investigate LF actions on further stages of the reproductive process in the Wistar rat model. Motile sperm were obtained from cauda epididymis to assess LF binding by direct immunofluorescence and LF effect on acrosome reaction (AR) using a Coomassie blue staining. After ovarian hyperstimulation of female rats, oocytes were surgically recovered and coincubated with motile sperm and different doses of LF to estimate the in vitro fertilization (IVF) rate. To evaluate the LF effect on pregnancy and embryo implantation, female rats (80 days old) were placed with males and received daily intraperitoneal injections of LF during one complete estrous cycle (pregnancy experiments) or during the first 8 gestational days (implantation experiments). The number of pregnant females and live born pups was recorded after labor. Moreover, the number of implantation sites was registered during the implantation period. LF was able to bind to the sperm head, midpiece, and tail. 10 and 100 μg/ml LF stimulated the AR but reduced the IVF rate. The administration of 100 and 200 mg/kg LF significantly decreased the number of implantation sites and the litter size, whereas 100 mg/kg LF declined the pregnancy rate. The results suggest that LF might interfere with the reproductive process, possibly interfering with gamete interaction or inducing a premature AR; nevertheless, the mechanisms involved are yet to be elucidated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Massa Estefanía
- Area of Clinical Biochemistry, Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas - Universidad Nacional de Rosario, Suipacha 531, Rosario, 2000, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Gola Aldana
- Area of Clinical Biochemistry, Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas - Universidad Nacional de Rosario, Suipacha 531, Rosario, 2000, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Moriconi Marianela
- Area of Clinical Biochemistry, Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas - Universidad Nacional de Rosario, Suipacha 531, Rosario, 2000, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Lo Celso Agustina
- Area of Clinical Biochemistry, Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas - Universidad Nacional de Rosario, Suipacha 531, Rosario, 2000, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Madariaga María José
- Area of Morphology, Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas - Universidad Nacional de Rosario Suipacha 531, Rosario, 2000, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Pelusa Fabián
- Area of Clinical Biochemistry, Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas - Universidad Nacional de Rosario, Suipacha 531, Rosario, 2000, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Ghersevich Sergio
- Area of Clinical Biochemistry, Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas - Universidad Nacional de Rosario, Suipacha 531, Rosario, 2000, Santa Fe, Argentina.
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Kanno H, Kurata S, Hiradate Y, Hara K, Yoshida H, Tanemura K. High concentration of dopamine treatment may induce acceleration of human sperm motility. Reprod Med Biol 2022; 21:e12482. [PMID: 36310655 PMCID: PMC9601866 DOI: 10.1002/rmb2.12482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Revised: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose In humans, catecholamines (including dopamine) have been identified in semen and fallopian tubes, while dopamine D2 receptors (D2DR) are found in the sperm midpiece region. How dopamine dose affects human sperm function and whether dopamine treatment is useful in assisted reproductive technology is unclear. Methods Sperm samples were obtained from patients with normal semen parameters undergoing fertility treatment. We investigated the effects of dopamine treatment on tyrosine phosphorylation and sperm motility. Sperm motility was analyzed using the computer-assisted sperm analysis (CASA) system. Results This study revealed that various dopamine concentrations (0.1-100 μM) did not increase sperm tyrosine phosphorylation. Progressive motility increased substantially when treated with high concentrations of dopamine (10 and 100 μM) and was blocked by raclopride (a D2DR antagonist). After 24-h sperm culture, the addition of 10 μM dopamine significantly increased curvilinear velocity and amplitude of lateral head displacement, which are indicators of hyperactivation. Conclusion Dopamine did not affect tyrosine phosphorylation, but increased sperm motility. High concentrations of dopamine were more effective to accelerate sperm motility in cases where sperm motile capacity was low.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroki Kanno
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Development, Graduate School of Agricultural ScienceTohoku UniversitySendaiJapan,Sendai ART ClinicSendaiJapan
| | - Shouhei Kurata
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Development, Graduate School of Agricultural ScienceTohoku UniversitySendaiJapan
| | - Yuuki Hiradate
- Research Institute for Microbial DiseasesOsaka UniversitySuitaJapan
| | - Kenshiro Hara
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Development, Graduate School of Agricultural ScienceTohoku UniversitySendaiJapan
| | | | - Kentaro Tanemura
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Development, Graduate School of Agricultural ScienceTohoku UniversitySendaiJapan
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Wang M, Zhu T, Liu C, Jin L, Fei P, Zhang B. Oviduct-mimicking microfluidic chips decreased the ROS concentration in the in vitro fertilized embryos of CD-1 mice. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 154:113567. [PMID: 36007278 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.113567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Revised: 08/07/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The process of the assisted reproductive technology (ART) cycle is extremely complicated, and various factors in each step may influence the final clinical outcomes; thus, optimizing culture conditions for embryos is crucial in the ART cycle, particularly when the traditional petri-dish method remains unchanged for decades. In the current study, we intend to culture embryos in a dynamic environment on chips to optimize the embryo culture conditions. METHODS Multilayer soft lithography technology was utilized to establish a microfluidics-based oviduct. Mouse primary oviduct epithelial cells were identified by immunofluorescence staining and then loaded into the chip to coculture with the embryos. The development potential parameters of embryos on chips with cells, on chips without cells, and in drops were compared, as well as reactive oxygen species (ROS) in embryos. RESULTS There were no obvious differences regarding the fertilization rate, 4-Cell embryo rate, cleavage rate, high-quality embryo rate, or blastocyst formation rate. However, the intracellular ROS levels in 4-Cell stage embryos on chips with cells were statistically significantly lower than those in drops (P < 0.001). This organ-on-chip device allowed the probability of mammalian embryo culture in a microfluidic-based manner. CONCLUSIONS Our findings demonstrated that this novel oviduct-on-chip model may optimize embryo culture conditions by reducing intracellular ROS levels, which may be a competent alternative to the existing stable embryo culture system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Wang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Tingting Zhu
- School of Optical and Electronic Information, Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Chang Liu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, China
| | - Lei Jin
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Peng Fei
- School of Optical and Electronic Information, Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Bo Zhang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
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Yanagimachi R. Mysteries and unsolved problems of mammalian fertilization and related topics. Biol Reprod 2022; 106:644-675. [PMID: 35292804 PMCID: PMC9040664 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Revised: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Mammalian fertilization is a fascinating process that leads to the formation of a new individual. Eggs and sperm are complex cells that must meet at the appropriate time and position within the female reproductive tract for successful fertilization. I have been studying various aspects of mammalian fertilization over 60 years. In this review, I discuss many different aspects of mammalian fertilization, some of my laboratory's contribution to the field, and discuss enigmas and mysteries that remain to be solved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryuzo Yanagimachi
- Institute for Biogenesis Research, Department of Anatomy, Biochemistry and Physiology, University of Hawaii Medical School, Honolulu, HI 96822, USA
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11
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The life history of
Drosophila
sperm involves molecular continuity between male and female reproductive tracts. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:e2119899119. [PMID: 35254899 PMCID: PMC8931355 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2119899119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
In species with internal fertilization, sperm spend an important part of their lives within the female. To examine the life history of the sperm during this time, we used semiquantitative proteomics and sex-specific isotopic labeling in fruit flies to determine the extent of molecular continuity between male and female reproductive tracts and provide a global catalog of sperm-associated proteins. Multiple seminal fluid proteins and female proteins associate with sperm immediately after mating. Few seminal fluid proteins remain after long-term sperm storage, whereas female-derived proteins constitute one-fifth of the postmating sperm proteome by then. Our data reveal a molecular “hand-off” from males to females, which we postulate to be an important component of sperm–female interactions. Interactions between sperm and the female reproductive tract (FRT) are critical to reproductive success and yet are poorly understood. Because sperm complete their functional maturation within the FRT, the life history of sperm is likely to include a molecular “hand-off” from males to females. Although such intersexual molecular continuity is likely to be widespread among all internally fertilizing species, the identity and extent of female contributions are largely unknown. We combined semiquantitative proteomics with sex-specific isotopic labeling to catalog the posttesticular life history of the sperm proteome and determine the extent of molecular continuity between male and FRTs. We show that the Drosophila melanogaster sperm proteome undergoes substantial compositional changes after being transferred to the FRT. Multiple seminal fluid proteins initially associate with sperm, but most become undetectable after sperm are stored. Female-derived proteins also begin to associate with sperm immediately after mating, and they comprise nearly 20% of the postmating sperm proteome following 4 d of storage in the FRT. Female-derived proteins that associate with sperm are enriched for processes associated with energy metabolism, suggesting that female contributions support sperm viability during the prolonged period between copulation and fertilization. Our research provides a comprehensive characterization of sperm proteome dynamics and expands our understanding of the critical process of sperm–FRT interactions.
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Wei Y, Idrees M, Sidrat T, Joo M, Xu L, Ko J, Kong I. BOEC–Exo Addition Promotes In Vitro Maturation of Bovine Oocyte and Enhances the Developmental Competence of Early Embryos. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12040424. [PMID: 35203134 PMCID: PMC8868460 DOI: 10.3390/ani12040424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2022] [Revised: 02/06/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The results of the present study proved that the addition of bovine oviductal epithelial cell derived exosomes (BOEC–Exo) to the in vitro maturation (IVM) media improved the bovine oocyte maturation and early embryo development. The addition of BOEC–Exo not only significantly enhanced the polar body exclusion, but also enhanced the expression of connexins in cumulus oocyte complexes (COCs). Likewise, the reactive oxygen species (ROS) level, protein expressions of SIRT-1, and mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) also suggested that BOEC–Exo addition to IVM media is highly beneficial for in vitro bovine oocyte maturation. Furthermore, BOEC–Exo treatment to the primary cultured bovine cumulus cells significantly attenuated apoptosis, which also showed its positive influence on the COCs. Moreover, oocytes that were matured in the presence of BOEC–Exo led to the production of a significantly higher quantity and quality of day-8 blastocysts. Additionally, the BOEC–Exo treated blastocysts had a higher implantation potential when compared with the control. Our results suggest that the addition of BOEC–Exo to IVM media significantly enhanced the percentage of oocytes maturation and improved the embryo quantity and quality. Abstract Exosomes are nano-sized vesicles with abundant nucleic acids, proteins, lipids, and other regulatory molecules. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of BOEC–Exo on bovine in vitro oocyte maturation and in vitro embryo development. We found that a 3% Exo supplementation to IVM media significantly enhanced the oocyte maturation and reduced the accumulation of ROS in MII-stage bovine oocytes. Oocyte maturation related genes (GDF9 and CPEB1) also confirmed that 3% Exo treatment to oocytes significantly (p < 0.05) enhanced the oocyte maturation. Next, we cultured bovine cumulus cells and assessed the effects of 3% Exo, which showed a reduced level of apoptotic proteins (caspase-3 and p-NF-κB protein expressions). Furthermore, we examined the gap junction (CX43 and CX37) and cumulus cells expansion related genes (HAS2, PTX3, and GREM1) in cumulus–oocyte complexes (COCs), and all those genes showed significantly (p < 0.05) higher expressions in 3% Exo-treated COCs as compared with the control group. Moreover, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) and lipid metabolism-related genes (CPT1 and FABP3) were also analyzed in both the control and 3% Exo groups and the results showed significant (p < 0.05) enhancement in the lipid metabolism. Finally, the oocytes matured in the presence of 3% Exo showed a significantly higher rate of embryo development and better implantation potential. Finally, we concluded that Exo positively influenced bovine oocyte in vitro maturation and improved the early embryo’s developmental competence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiran Wei
- Department of Animal Science, Division of Applied Life Science, Institute of Agriculture and Life Science (IALS), Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Gyeongnam 52828, Korea; (Y.W.); (M.I.); (T.S.); (M.J.); (L.X.)
| | - Muhammad Idrees
- Department of Animal Science, Division of Applied Life Science, Institute of Agriculture and Life Science (IALS), Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Gyeongnam 52828, Korea; (Y.W.); (M.I.); (T.S.); (M.J.); (L.X.)
- Institute of Agriculture and Life Science, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Gyeongnam 52828, Korea
| | - Tabinda Sidrat
- Department of Animal Science, Division of Applied Life Science, Institute of Agriculture and Life Science (IALS), Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Gyeongnam 52828, Korea; (Y.W.); (M.I.); (T.S.); (M.J.); (L.X.)
| | - Myeondon Joo
- Department of Animal Science, Division of Applied Life Science, Institute of Agriculture and Life Science (IALS), Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Gyeongnam 52828, Korea; (Y.W.); (M.I.); (T.S.); (M.J.); (L.X.)
| | - Lianguang Xu
- Department of Animal Science, Division of Applied Life Science, Institute of Agriculture and Life Science (IALS), Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Gyeongnam 52828, Korea; (Y.W.); (M.I.); (T.S.); (M.J.); (L.X.)
| | - Jonghyeok Ko
- The King Kong Corp. Ltd., Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Gyeongnam 52828, Korea;
| | - Ilkeun Kong
- Department of Animal Science, Division of Applied Life Science, Institute of Agriculture and Life Science (IALS), Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Gyeongnam 52828, Korea; (Y.W.); (M.I.); (T.S.); (M.J.); (L.X.)
- Institute of Agriculture and Life Science, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Gyeongnam 52828, Korea
- The King Kong Corp. Ltd., Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Gyeongnam 52828, Korea;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-55-772-1942
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13
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Kurata S, Umezu K, Takamori H, Hiradate Y, Hara K, Tanemura K. Exogenous gamma-aminobutyric acid addition enhances porcine sperm acrosome reaction. Anim Sci J 2022; 93:e13744. [PMID: 35699686 PMCID: PMC9286608 DOI: 10.1111/asj.13744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Revised: 05/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
The widely used porcine artificial insemination procedure involves the use of liquid‐stored semen because it is difficult to control the quality of frozen–thawed porcine sperm. Therefore, there is a high demand for porcine semen. The control and enhancement of sperm function are required for the efficient reproduction of pigs. We previously reported that gamma‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) enhanced sperm capacitation and acrosome reaction in mice. In this study, we demonstrated the presence of GABAA receptors in porcine sperm acrosome. Furthermore, we investigated the GABA effects on porcine sperm function. We did not detect any marked effect of GABA on sperm motility and tyrosine phosphorylation of sperm proteins. However, GABA promoted acrosome reaction, which was suppressed by a selective GABAA receptor antagonist. GABA binds to GABAA receptors, resulting in chloride ion influx. We found that treatment with 1 μM GABA increased the intracellular concentration of chloride ion in the sperm. In addition, the GABA concentration effective in the acrosome reaction was correlated with the porcine sperm concentration. These results indicate that GABA and its receptors can act as modulators of acrosome reaction. This study is the first to report the effects of GABA on porcine sperm function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shouhei Kurata
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Development, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Tohoku University, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan
| | - Kohei Umezu
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Hironori Takamori
- Miyagi Prefectural Livestock Experimental Station, Osaki, Miyagi, Japan
| | - Yuuki Hiradate
- Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Kenshiro Hara
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Development, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Tohoku University, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan
| | - Kentaro Tanemura
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Development, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Tohoku University, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan
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14
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Cajas YN, Cañón-Beltrán K, de la Blanca MGM, Sánchez JM, Fernandez-Fuertes B, González EM, Rizos D. Role of reproductive fluids and extracellular vesicles in embryo–maternal interaction during early pregnancy in cattle. Reprod Fertil Dev 2021; 34:117-138. [PMID: 35231231 DOI: 10.1071/rd21275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The coordinated interaction between the developing embryo and the maternal reproductive tract is essential for the establishment and maintenance of pregnancy in mammals. An early cross-talk is established between the oviduct/uterus and the gametes and embryo. This dialogue will shape the microenvironment in which gamete transport, fertilisation, and early embryonic development occur. Due to the small size of the gametes and the early embryo relative to the volume of the oviductal and uterine lumina, collection of tissue and fluid adjacent to these cells is challenging in cattle. Thus, the combination of in vivo and in vitro models seems to be the most appropriate approach to better understand this fine dialogue. In this respect, the aim of this review is to summarise the recent findings in relation to gamete/embryo-maternal interaction during the pre-elongation period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yulia N Cajas
- Department of Animal Reproduction, National Center Institute for Agriculture and Food Research and Technology (CSIC-INIA), Ctra de la Coruña KM 5.9, 28040 Madrid, Spain; and Laboratorio de Biotecnología de la Reproducción Animal, Facultad de Ciencias Agropecuarias, Universidad de Cuenca (UC), EC010205 Cuenca, Ecuador
| | - Karina Cañón-Beltrán
- Department of Animal Reproduction, National Center Institute for Agriculture and Food Research and Technology (CSIC-INIA), Ctra de la Coruña KM 5.9, 28040 Madrid, Spain; and Facultad de Ciencias Agrarias y Ambientales, Programa de Medicina Veterinaria, Fundación Universitaria Juan de Castellanos (JdC), 150001 Tunja, Colombia
| | - María Gemma Millán de la Blanca
- Department of Animal Reproduction, National Center Institute for Agriculture and Food Research and Technology (CSIC-INIA), Ctra de la Coruña KM 5.9, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - José M Sánchez
- Department of Animal Reproduction, National Center Institute for Agriculture and Food Research and Technology (CSIC-INIA), Ctra de la Coruña KM 5.9, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Beatriz Fernandez-Fuertes
- Department of Animal Reproduction, National Center Institute for Agriculture and Food Research and Technology (CSIC-INIA), Ctra de la Coruña KM 5.9, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Encina M González
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Veterinary Faculty, Complutense University of Madrid (UCM), 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Dimitrios Rizos
- Department of Animal Reproduction, National Center Institute for Agriculture and Food Research and Technology (CSIC-INIA), Ctra de la Coruña KM 5.9, 28040 Madrid, Spain
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Leese HJ, McKeegan PJ, Sturmey RG. Amino Acids and the Early Mammalian Embryo: Origin, Fate, Function and Life-Long Legacy. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:9874. [PMID: 34574797 PMCID: PMC8467587 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18189874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2021] [Revised: 08/27/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Amino acids are now recognised as having multiple cellular functions in addition to their traditional role as constituents of proteins. This is well-illustrated in the early mammalian embryo where amino acids are now known to be involved in intermediary metabolism, as energy substrates, in signal transduction, osmoregulation and as intermediaries in numerous pathways which involve nitrogen metabolism, e.g., the biosynthesis of purines, pyrimidines, creatine and glutathione. The amino acid derivative S-adenosylmethionine has emerged as a universal methylating agent with a fundamental role in epigenetic regulation. Amino acids are now added routinely to preimplantation embryo culture media. This review examines the routes by which amino acids are supplied to the early embryo, focusing on the role of the oviduct epithelium, followed by an outline of their general fate and function within the embryo. Functions specific to individual amino acids are then considered. The importance of amino acids during the preimplantation period for maternal health and that of the conceptus long term, which has come from the developmental origins of health and disease concept of David Barker, is discussed and the review concludes by considering the potential utility of amino acid profiles as diagnostic of embryo health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henry J. Leese
- Centre for Atherothrombosis and Metabolic Disease, Hull York Medical School, University of Hull, Hull HU6 7RX, UK;
| | - Paul J. McKeegan
- Centre for Anatomical and Human Sciences, Hull York Medical School, University of Hull, Hull HU6 7RX, UK;
| | - Roger G. Sturmey
- Centre for Atherothrombosis and Metabolic Disease, Hull York Medical School, University of Hull, Hull HU6 7RX, UK;
- Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, The University of Manchester, St Mary’s Hospital, Manchester M13 9WL, UK
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16
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Wang S, Larina IV. In vivo dynamic 3D imaging of oocytes and embryos in the mouse oviduct. Cell Rep 2021; 36:109382. [PMID: 34260920 PMCID: PMC8344084 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2021.109382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Revised: 03/26/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Developmental biologists have always relied on imaging to shed light on dynamic cellular events. However, processes such as mammalian fertilization and embryogenesis are generally inaccessible for direct imaging. In consequence, how the oviduct (fallopian tube) facilitates the transport of gametes and preimplantation embryos continues to be unanswered. Here we present a combination of intravital window and optical coherence tomography for dynamic, volumetric, in vivo imaging of oocytes and embryos as they are transported through the mouse oviduct. We observed location-dependent circling, oscillating, and long-distance bi-directional movements of oocytes and embryos that suggest regulatory mechanisms driving transport and question established views in the field. This in vivo imaging approach can be combined with a variety of genetic and pharmacological manipulations for live functional analysis, bringing the potential to investigate reproductive physiology in its native state. Wang and Larina present in vivo volumetric imaging of oocytes and embryos as they are transported through the mouse oviduct with optical coherence tomography and an intravital microscopy. The study reveals complex dynamics of oocytes and embryos that suggest a regulatory role of cilia and oviductal contractions in driving the transport.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shang Wang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Stevens Institute of Technology, Hoboken, NJ 07030, USA.
| | - Irina V Larina
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
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Missio D, Dos Santos Brum D, Dalle Laste Dacampo L, Weber Santos Cibin F, Silveira Mesquita F, Germano Ferst J, Fiordalisi G, Dias Gonçalves PB, Ferreira R. High concentrations of β-hydroxybutyrate alter the kinetics of bovine spermatozoa. Andrologia 2021; 53:e14148. [PMID: 34171138 DOI: 10.1111/and.14148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2021] [Revised: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Postpartum cows, mainly with metabolic diseases, such as ketosis, usually experience an increased number of services per conception. During ketosis, high concentrations of β-hydroxybutyrate (BHBA) in follicular, uterine and oviductal fluid have been considered to cause subfertility in cows. However, the effect of sperm exposure to an environment with high BHBA concentration is not known. This study investigated the influence of high levels of BHBA on kinetics, oxidative status and morphology of bovine spermatozoa. To assess the effect of BHBA after sperm selection, bovine spermatozoa were incubated (180 min) with different BHBA concentrations: 0 (Control), 0.8, 2.4 or 5 mM. Sperm kinetics was evaluated after 30, 60, 120 and 180 min, and oxidative status and morphology were analysed at 180 min. Oxidative status was evaluated through the production of reactive oxidative species (ROS), total antioxidant capacity and lipid peroxidation. High concentrations of BHBA decreased the curvilinear velocity, straight line velocity, mean path velocity, linearity, straightness and hyperactivity of spermatozoa. However, there was no effect of BHBA on oxidative and antioxidant capacity as well as on sperm morphology. In conclusion, exposure of bovine spermatozoa to high levels of BHBA impairs sperm kinetics without altering oxidative and antioxidant mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniele Missio
- Laboratory of Biotechnology and Animal Reproduction - BioRep, Federal University of Santa Maria, Santa Maria, Brazil
| | - Daniela Dos Santos Brum
- Laboratory of Biotechnology of Reproduction - BIOTECH, Federal University of Pampa, Uruguaiana, Brazil
| | - Lucas Dalle Laste Dacampo
- Laboratory of Biotechnology of Reproduction - BIOTECH, Federal University of Pampa, Uruguaiana, Brazil
| | | | - Fernando Silveira Mesquita
- Molecular and Integrative Physiology of Reproduction Laboratory, MINT, Federal University of Pampa, Uruguaiana, Brazil
| | - Juliana Germano Ferst
- Molecular and Integrative Physiology of Reproduction Laboratory, MINT, Federal University of Pampa, Uruguaiana, Brazil
| | - Giovanna Fiordalisi
- Department of Animal Science, Santa Catarina State University, Chapecó, Brazil
| | - Paulo Bayard Dias Gonçalves
- Laboratory of Biotechnology and Animal Reproduction - BioRep, Federal University of Santa Maria, Santa Maria, Brazil.,Molecular and Integrative Physiology of Reproduction Laboratory, MINT, Federal University of Pampa, Uruguaiana, Brazil
| | - Rogério Ferreira
- Department of Animal Science, Santa Catarina State University, Chapecó, Brazil
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18
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Azari M, Kafi M, Asaadi A, Pakniat Z, Abouhamzeh B. Bovine oocyte developmental competence and gene expression following co-culturing with ampullary cells: An experimental study. Int J Reprod Biomed 2021; 19:371-380. [PMID: 33997596 PMCID: PMC8106812 DOI: 10.18502/ijrm.v19i4.9063] [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: 02/12/2020] [Revised: 08/09/2020] [Accepted: 09/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background There is no sufficient information on the impact of bovine ampullary oviductal epithelial cells (BAOECs) on in vitro oocyte maturation competence and gene expression. Objective This study aimed to examine the oocyte developmental competence following co-culturing with a monolayer of fresh and frozen-thawed ampullary cells. Materials and Methods Bovine cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) were distributed into three groups: control group; where in COCs were cultured in cell-free media for 24 hr and FML and FTML groups in which the COCs were cultured in maturation media for 18 hr and then transferred into a media containing fresh and frozen-thawed BAOECs monolayer, respectively (BAOECs were extracted from the oviducts of slaughtered cattle and were then cultured freshly or frozen-thawed) for a further 6 hr. After 24 hr, the expanded COCs were evaluated for nuclear maturation, fertilization rate, and gene expression (GDF9, StAR, CASP3, and FSHr). Results Nuclear maturation rate in the FTML group was significantly higher than the control group (p = 0.02). The fertilization rate of FTML group was significantly higher than the control and FML groups (p = 0.05 and p = 0.03, respectively). In terms of gene expression, GDF9 were upregulated in the presence of the BAOECs during the last 6 hr of the in vitro maturation (p < 0.001). Furthermore, the expression of the StAR gene in the FTML group was higher than the other groups (p = 0.02). Conclusion Ampullary cells co-culturing (especially frozen-thawed cells) for in vitro maturation of bovine oocytes yields encourages the results and demonstrates the beneficial effect of co-culture on gene expression and developmental competence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehdi Azari
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, AJA University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine, Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mojtaba Kafi
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine, Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Anise Asaadi
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine, Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Zohreh Pakniat
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine, Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Beheshteh Abouhamzeh
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, AJA University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Harwalkar K, Ford MJ, Teng K, Yamanaka N, Yang B, Burtscher I, Lickert H, Yamanaka Y. Anatomical and cellular heterogeneity in the mouse oviduct-its potential roles in reproduction and preimplantation development†. Biol Reprod 2021; 104:1249-1261. [PMID: 33693543 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioab043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2020] [Revised: 12/25/2020] [Accepted: 03/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The oviduct/fallopian tube is a tube-like structure that extends from the uterus to the ovary. It is an essential reproductive organ that provides an environment for internal fertilization and preimplantation development. However, our knowledge of its regional and cellular heterogeneity is still limited. Here, we examined the anatomical complexity of mouse oviducts using modern imaging techniques and fluorescence reporter lines. We found that there are consistent coiling patterns and turning points in the coiled mouse oviduct that serve as reliable landmarks for luminal morphological regionalities. We also found previously unrecognized anatomical structures in the isthmus and uterotubal junction, which likely play roles in reproduction. Furthermore, we demarcated the ampulla-isthmus junction as a distinct region. Taken together, the oviduct mucosal epithelium has highly diverse structures with distinct epithelial cell populations, reflecting its complex functions in reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keerthana Harwalkar
- Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Research Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Department of Human Genetics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Matthew J Ford
- Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Research Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Department of Human Genetics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Katie Teng
- Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Research Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Department of Human Genetics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Nobuko Yamanaka
- Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Research Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Brenna Yang
- Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Research Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Ingo Burtscher
- Institute of Diabetes and Regeneration Research, Helmholtz Diabetes Center, Helmholtz Center Munich, Munich, Germany
- Institute of Stem Cell Research, Helmholtz Center, Munich, Germany
| | - Heiko Lickert
- Institute of Diabetes and Regeneration Research, Helmholtz Diabetes Center, Helmholtz Center Munich, Munich, Germany
- Institute of Stem Cell Research, Helmholtz Center, Munich, Germany
- German Centre for Diabetes Research (DZD), Munich, Germany
- Department of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Yojiro Yamanaka
- Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Research Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Department of Human Genetics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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Naranjo-Gómez JS, Uribe-García HF, Herrera-Sánchez MP, Lozano-Villegas KJ, Rodríguez-Hernández R, Rondón-Barragán IS. Heat stress on cattle embryo: gene regulation and adaptation. Heliyon 2021; 7:e06570. [PMID: 33869831 PMCID: PMC8035499 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2021.e06570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Revised: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Global warming has been affecting animal husbandry and farming production worldwide via changes in organisms and their habitats. In the tropics, these conditions are adverse for agriculture and animal production in some areas, due to high temperatures and relative humidity, affecting competitiveness related to economic activities. These environments have deteriorated livestock production, due to periods of drought, reduction in forage quality and heat stress, eliciting negative effects on reproduction, weight gain, and reduced meat and milk production. However, the use of animals adapted to tropics such as breeds derived from subspecies Bos primigenius indicus and native breeds from tropical countries or their crossings, is an alternative to improve production under high-temperature conditions. Therefore, physiological adaptation including gene expression induced by heat stress have been studied to understand the response of animals and to improve cross-breeding between cattle breeds to maintain high productivity in adverse weather conditions. Heat stress has been associated with lower reproductive performance in cows, due to the impact on blastocyst production, decreased implantation and increased embryonic death. Thus, for decades, in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer techniques have focused on studying the optimal conditions for production of high-quality embryos to transfer. The aim of this review is to discuss the effects of heat stress in bovine embryos, and their physiological and genetic modulation, focusing on the genes that are related with major adaptability to heat stress conditions and their relationship with different embryonic stages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Sebastian Naranjo-Gómez
- Research Group in Immunobiology and Pathogenesis, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Zootechnics, University of Tolima, Altos of Santa Helena, A.A 546, Ibagué, Colombia
| | - Heinner Fabián Uribe-García
- Research Group in Immunobiology and Pathogenesis, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Zootechnics, University of Tolima, Altos of Santa Helena, A.A 546, Ibagué, Colombia
| | - María Paula Herrera-Sánchez
- Research Group in Immunobiology and Pathogenesis, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Zootechnics, University of Tolima, Altos of Santa Helena, A.A 546, Ibagué, Colombia
| | - Kelly Johanna Lozano-Villegas
- Research Group in Immunobiology and Pathogenesis, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Zootechnics, University of Tolima, Altos of Santa Helena, A.A 546, Ibagué, Colombia
| | - Roy Rodríguez-Hernández
- Poultry Research Group, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Zootechnics, University of Tolima, Altos of Santa Helena, A.A 546, Ibagué, Colombia
| | - Iang Schroniltgen Rondón-Barragán
- Research Group in Immunobiology and Pathogenesis, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Zootechnics, University of Tolima, Altos of Santa Helena, A.A 546, Ibagué, Colombia
- Poultry Research Group, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Zootechnics, University of Tolima, Altos of Santa Helena, A.A 546, Ibagué, Colombia
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Expression and Possible Role of Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptor ε Subunit (AChRe) in Mouse Sperm. BIOLOGY 2021; 10:biology10010046. [PMID: 33440720 PMCID: PMC7826850 DOI: 10.3390/biology10010046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Revised: 01/06/2021] [Accepted: 01/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) is one of the receptors of acetylcholine (ACh), and nicotine (NIC) acts as an agonist of this receptor. Among the nAChR subunits, we found that the ε subunit (AChRe) had approximately 10 to 1000 times higher level of mRNA expression in mouse testes than the other subunits. In this study, we aimed to elucidate the expression and localization of AChRe in the testes and spermatozoa of mice and clarify the effect of AChRe on sperm function. Immunocytochemistry showed that AChRe was expressed in the murine testes and spermatozoa. We found that AChRe was localized only in elongated spermatids from step 12 onwards in the testes. In spermatozoa, AChRe was localized in the head, especially in the anterior region of the acrosome, but only approximately 50% of spermatozoa showed this immunoreactivity. Additionally, we analyzed the effects of ACh and NIC on sperm acrosome reaction (AR) and found that both ACh and NIC suppressed the AR rate, which was restored by an AChRe-specific antagonist. These results suggest that AChRe may be a regulator of mammalian sperm AR.
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22
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Semen Modulates Inflammation and Angiogenesis in the Reproductive Tract of Female Rabbits. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10122207. [PMID: 33255666 PMCID: PMC7761520 DOI: 10.3390/ani10122207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2020] [Revised: 11/18/2020] [Accepted: 11/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The maternal environment modulates immune responses to facilitate embryo development and ensure pregnancy. Unraveling this modulation could improve the livestock breeding systems. Here it is hypothesized that the exposure of the female rabbit reproductive tract to semen, as well as to early embryos, modulates inflammation and angiogenesis among different tissue segments. qPCR analysis of the gene expression changes of the anti-inflammatory interleukin-10 (IL10) and transforming growth factor beta family (TGFβ1-3) and the angiogenesis mediator vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF-A) were examined in response to mating or insemination with sperm-free seminal plasma (SP). Reproductive tract segment (cervix to infundibulum) samples were obtained in Experiment 1, 20 h after gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) stimulation (control), natural mating (NM) or vaginal infusion with sperm-free SP (SP-AI). Additionally, segmented samples were also obtained at 10, 24, 36, 68 or 72 h after GnRH-stimulation and natural mating (Experiment 2). The results of gene expression, analyzed by quantitative PCR, showed that NM effects were mainly localized in the uterine tissues, depicting clear temporal variation, while SP-AI effects were restricted to the oviduct. Changes in anti-inflammatory and angiogenesis mediators indicate an early response in the uterus and a late modulation in the oviduct either induced by semen or preimplantation embryos. This knowledge could be used in the implementation of physiological strategies in breeding systems to face the new challenges on rabbit productivity and sustainability.
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23
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Abstract
The aim of this study is to investigate the methotrexate (MTX) in rat embryonal implantation and its association with Glycodelin A (GdA) and Mucin-1 (MUC-1) expression. For this purpose, 32 pregnant rats were divided into four equal groups: non-pregnant rats in group I (n = 8, control) and pregnant rats in group III (n = 8) were injected intraperitoneal with single dose of normal saline, non-pregnant rats in group II (n = 8) and pregnant rats in group IV (n = 8) were given 0.2 mg i.m. injection of MTX before three months of pregnancy. The dams were killed on 5th day of gestation and uterine horn samples were removed. Following dissection and routine histological preparation, immunohistochemical analysis was carried out. During immunohistochemical examination of the tissue samples prepared from the control and experimental groups, a statistically significant difference was observed between the groups in the luminal-glandular-decidualized epithelium of the uterus with GdA and MUC-1. Finally, in light of our findings, MTX adversely affected the expression of two molecules in Wistar Albino rats embryonal implantation model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gokhan Erdil
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Arakli Bayram Halil State Hospital, Arakli, Turkey
| | - M Emre Ercin
- Department of Pathology, Karadeniz Technical University School of Medicine, Trabzon, Turkey
| | - Suleyman Guven
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Karadeniz Technical University School of Medicine, Trabzon, Turkey
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24
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Sidrat T, Khan AA, Joo MD, Wei Y, Lee KL, Xu L, Kong IK. Bovine Oviduct Epithelial Cell-Derived Culture Media and Exosomes Improve Mitochondrial Health by Restoring Metabolic Flux during Pre-Implantation Development. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21207589. [PMID: 33066562 PMCID: PMC7593913 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21207589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2020] [Revised: 10/09/2020] [Accepted: 10/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Oviduct flushing is enriched by a wide variety of nutrients that guide the 3-4 days journey of pre-implantation embryo through the oviduct as it develops into a competent blastocyst (BL). However, little is known about the specific requirement and role of these nutrients that orchestrate the early stages of embryonic development. In this study, we aimed to characterize the effect of in vitro-derived bovine oviduct epithelial cell (BOECs) secretion that mimics the in vivo oviduct micro-fluid like environment, which allows successful embryonic development. In this study, the addition of an in vitro derived BOECs-condition media (CM) and its isolated exosomes (Exo) significantly enhances the quality and development of BL, while the hatching ability of BLs was found to be high (48.8%) in the BOECs-Exo supplemented group. Surprisingly, BOECs-Exo have a dynamic effect on modulating the embryonic metabolism by restoring the pyruvate flux into TCA-cycle. Our analysis reveals that Exo treatment significantly upregulates the pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH) and glutamate dehydrogenase (GLUD1) expression, required for metabolic fine-tuning of the TCA-cycle in the developing embryos. Exo treatment increases the influx into TCA-cycle by strongly suppressing the PDH and GLUD1 upstream inhibitors, i.e., PDK4 and SIRT4. Improvement of TCA-cycle function was further accompanied by higher metabolic activity of mitochondria in BOECs-CM and Exo in vitro embryos. Our study uncovered, for the first time, the possible mechanism of BOECs-derived secretion in re-establishing the TCA-cycle flux by the utilization of available nutrients and highlighted the importance of pyruvate in supporting bovine in vitro embryonic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tabinda Sidrat
- Department of Animal Science, Division of Applied Life Science (BK21 Four), Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52828, Korea; (T.S.); (M.-D.J.); (Y.W.); (L.X.)
| | - Abdul Aziz Khan
- Center for Discovery and Innovation, Hackensack University Medical Center, Nutley, NJ 07110, USA;
| | - Myeon-Don Joo
- Department of Animal Science, Division of Applied Life Science (BK21 Four), Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52828, Korea; (T.S.); (M.-D.J.); (Y.W.); (L.X.)
| | - Yiran Wei
- Department of Animal Science, Division of Applied Life Science (BK21 Four), Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52828, Korea; (T.S.); (M.-D.J.); (Y.W.); (L.X.)
| | - Kyeong-Lim Lee
- The King Kong Corp. Ltd., Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52828, Korea;
| | - Lianguang Xu
- Department of Animal Science, Division of Applied Life Science (BK21 Four), Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52828, Korea; (T.S.); (M.-D.J.); (Y.W.); (L.X.)
| | - Il-Keun Kong
- Department of Animal Science, Division of Applied Life Science (BK21 Four), Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52828, Korea; (T.S.); (M.-D.J.); (Y.W.); (L.X.)
- The King Kong Corp. Ltd., Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52828, Korea;
- Institute of Agriculture and Life Science, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52828, Korea
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-55-772-1942
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25
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Gegenfurtner K, Fröhlich T, Kösters M, Mermillod P, Locatelli Y, Fritz S, Salvetti P, Forde N, Lonergan P, Wolf E, Arnold GJ. Influence of metabolic status and genetic merit for fertility on proteomic composition of bovine oviduct fluid†. Biol Reprod 2020; 101:893-905. [PMID: 31347661 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioz142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2018] [Revised: 04/03/2019] [Accepted: 07/22/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The oviduct plays a crucial role in fertilization and early embryo development providing the microenvironment for oocyte, spermatozoa, and early embryo. Since dairy cow fertility declined steadily over the last decades, reasons for early embryonic loss have gained increasing interest. Analyzing two animal models, this study aimed to investigate the impact of genetic predisposition for fertility and of metabolic stress on the protein composition of oviduct fluid. A metabolic model comprised maiden Holstein heifers and postpartum lactating (Lact) and non-lactating (Dry) cows, while a genetic model consisted of heifers from the Montbéliarde breed and Holstein heifers with low- and high-fertility index. In a holistic proteomic analysis of oviduct fluid from all groups using nano-liquid chromatography tandem-mass spectrometry analysis and label-free quantification, we were able to identify 1976 proteins, among which 143 showed abundance alterations in the pairwise comparisons within both models. Most differentially abundant proteins were revealed between low fertility Holstein and Montbéliarde (52) in the genetic model and between lactating and maiden Holstein (19) in the metabolic model, demonstrating a substantial effect of genetic predisposition for fertility and metabolic stress on the oviduct fluid proteome. Functional classification of affected proteins revealed actin binding, translation, and immune system processes as prominent gene ontology (GO) clusters. Notably, Actin-related protein 2/3 complex subunit 1B and the three immune system-related proteins SERPIND1 protein, immunoglobulin kappa locus protein, and Alpha-1-acid glycoprotein were affected in both models, suggesting that abundance changes of immune-related proteins in oviduct fluid play an important role for early embryonic loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrin Gegenfurtner
- Laboratory for Functional Genome Analysis (LAFUGA), Gene Center, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Thomas Fröhlich
- Laboratory for Functional Genome Analysis (LAFUGA), Gene Center, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Miwako Kösters
- Laboratory for Functional Genome Analysis (LAFUGA), Gene Center, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Pascal Mermillod
- Institut National de Recherche Agronomique (INRA), UMR7247, Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, Nouzilly, France
| | - Yann Locatelli
- Institut National de Recherche Agronomique (INRA), UMR7247, Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, Nouzilly, France
| | | | - P Salvetti
- Allice, Station de Phénotypage, Nouzilly, France
| | - Niamh Forde
- Division of Reproduction and Early Development, School of Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Patrick Lonergan
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Eckhard Wolf
- Laboratory for Functional Genome Analysis (LAFUGA), Gene Center, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany.,Chair for Molecular Animal Breeding and Biotechnology, Gene Center and Department of Veterinary Sciences, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Georg J Arnold
- Laboratory for Functional Genome Analysis (LAFUGA), Gene Center, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
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26
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Tamburrino L, Marchiani S, Muratori M, Luconi M, Baldi E. Progesterone, spermatozoa and reproduction: An updated review. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2020; 516:110952. [PMID: 32712385 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2020.110952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2020] [Revised: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The rapid effects of steroids on spermatozoa have been demonstrated for the first time more than three decades ago. Progesterone (P), which is present throughout the female genital tract with peaks of levels in the cumulus matrix surrounding the oocyte, has been shown to stimulate several sperm functions in vitro, including capacitation, hyperactivation, chemotaxis and acrosome reaction (AR). Besides an increase of intracellular calcium, P has been shown to activate other sperm signalling pathways including tyrosine phosphorylation of several sperm proteins. All these effects are mediated by extra-nuclear pathways likely involving interaction with molecules present on the sperm surface. In particular, the increase in intracellular calcium ([Ca2+]i) in spermatozoa from human and several other mammalian species is mediated by the sperm specific calcium channel CatSper, whose expression and function are required for sperm hyperactive motility. P-mediated CatSper activation is indeed involved in promoting sperm hyperactivation, but the involvement of this channel in other P-stimulated sperm functions, such as AR and chemotaxis, is less clear and further studies are required to disclose all the involved pathways. In human spermatozoa, responsiveness to P in terms of [Ca2+]i increase and AR is highly related to sperm fertilizing ability in vitro, suggesting that the steroid is a physiological inducer of AR during in vitro fertilization. In view of their physiological relevance, P-stimulated sperm functions are currently investigated to develop new tools to select highly performant spermatozoa for assisted reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lara Tamburrino
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139, Florence, Italy
| | - Sara Marchiani
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139, Florence, Italy
| | - Monica Muratori
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Science, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139, Florence, Italy
| | - Michaela Luconi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Science, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139, Florence, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Baldi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139, Florence, Italy.
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27
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Luongo C, González-Brusi L, Cots-Rodríguez P, Izquierdo-Rico MJ, Avilés M, García-Vázquez FA. Sperm Proteome after Interaction with Reproductive Fluids in Porcine: From the Ejaculation to the Fertilization Site. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21176060. [PMID: 32842715 PMCID: PMC7570189 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21176060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2020] [Revised: 08/14/2020] [Accepted: 08/18/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Ejaculated sperm are exposed to different environments before encountering the oocyte. However, how the sperm proteome changes during this transit remains unsolved. This study aimed to identify proteomic changes in boar sperm after incubation with male (seminal plasma, SP) and/or female (uterine fluid, UF; and oviductal fluid, OF) reproductive fluids. The following experimental groups were analyzed: (1) SP: sperm + 20% SP; (2) UF: sperm + 20% UF; (3) OF: sperm + 20% OF; (4) SP + UF: sperm + 20% SP + 20% UF; and (5) SP+OF: sperm + 20% SP + 20% OF. The proteome analysis, performed by HPLC-MS/MS, allowed the identification of 265 proteins. A total of 69 proteins were detected in the UF, SP, and SP + UF groups, and 102 proteins in the OF, SP, and SP + OF groups. Our results showed a higher number of proteins when sperm were incubated with only one fluid than when they were co-incubated with two fluids. Additionally, the number of sperm-interacting proteins from the UF group was lower than the OF group. In conclusion, the interaction of sperm with reproductive fluids alters its proteome. The description of sperm-interacting proteins in porcine species after co-incubation with male and/or female reproductive fluids may be useful to understand sperm transport, selection, capacitation, or fertilization phenomena.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Luongo
- Department of Physiology, Veterinary School, International Excellence Campus for Higher Education and Research (Campus Mare Nostrum), University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain;
| | - Leopoldo González-Brusi
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain; (L.G.-B.); (P.C.-R.); (M.J.I.-R.)
| | - Paula Cots-Rodríguez
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain; (L.G.-B.); (P.C.-R.); (M.J.I.-R.)
| | - Mª José Izquierdo-Rico
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain; (L.G.-B.); (P.C.-R.); (M.J.I.-R.)
- Institute for Biomedical Research of Murcia, IMIB-Arrixaca, 30100 Murcia, Spain
| | - Manuel Avilés
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain; (L.G.-B.); (P.C.-R.); (M.J.I.-R.)
- Institute for Biomedical Research of Murcia, IMIB-Arrixaca, 30100 Murcia, Spain
- Correspondence: (M.A.); (F.A.G.-V.)
| | - Francisco Alberto García-Vázquez
- Department of Physiology, Veterinary School, International Excellence Campus for Higher Education and Research (Campus Mare Nostrum), University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain;
- Institute for Biomedical Research of Murcia, IMIB-Arrixaca, 30100 Murcia, Spain
- Correspondence: (M.A.); (F.A.G.-V.)
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28
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Porcine oviductal extracellular vesicles interact with gametes and regulate sperm motility and survival. Theriogenology 2020; 155:240-255. [PMID: 32791377 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.05.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2019] [Revised: 05/20/2020] [Accepted: 05/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Once in the female reproductive tract, spermatozoa undergo several modifications to acquire their complete fertilizing ability. Interactions between the oviductal fluid (OF) and gametes contribute to a successful fertilization. Recently, oviductal extracellular vesicles have been identified as an important part of the OF but their interactions with gametes are not fully understood. In the present study, we aim at determining the patterns of interactions between porcine oviductal extracellular vesicles (poEVs) and gametes (spermatozoa and oocytes). Moreover, we evaluate the effect of poEVs on sperm survival and motility to better understand the mechanisms by which poEVs modulate the processes leading to fertilization. Evaluation of poEVs uptake by spermatozoa showed that poEVs bind to spermatozoa in a time and dose dependent manner. Co-incubation of spermatozoa with poEVs (0.2 μg/μL) increased fresh and frozen sperm survival after 6 and 17 h, respectively. By contrast, poEVs supplementation reduced the total and progressive sperm motility after 2 h. Additionally, we demonstrated that poEVs interacted with the cumulus cells, zona pellucida (ZP) and oocyte, being able to cross the ZP. Besides, we showed that poEVs delivered their cargo into the oocyte, by the transfer of OVGP1 protein. In conclusion, our results demonstrated that poEVs are able to interact with both gametes. Besides, the findings from the present study showed that poEVs may participate in maintaining sperm viability and reducing motility, functions associated with the oviduct sperm reservoir. Although further investigations are needed, our results indicate that poEVs can be a potential tool to improve sperm life span during sperm handling and enhance IVF outcomes.
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29
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Zigo M, Maňásková-Postlerová P, Zuidema D, Kerns K, Jonáková V, Tůmová L, Bubeníčková F, Sutovsky P. Porcine model for the study of sperm capacitation, fertilization and male fertility. Cell Tissue Res 2020; 380:237-262. [PMID: 32140927 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-020-03181-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2019] [Accepted: 01/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Mammalian fertilization remains a poorly understood event with the vast majority of studies done in the mouse model. The purpose of this review is to revise the current knowledge about semen deposition, sperm transport, sperm capacitation, gamete interactions and early embryonic development with a focus on the porcine model as a relevant, alternative model organism to humans. The review provides a thorough overview of post-ejaculation events inside the sow's reproductive tract including comparisons with humans and implications for human fertilization and assisted reproductive therapy (ART). Porcine methodology for sperm handling, preservation, in vitro capacitation, oocyte in vitro maturation, in vitro fertilization and intra-cytoplasmic sperm injection that are routinely used in pig research laboratories can be successfully translated into ART to treat human infertility. Last, but not least, new knowledge about mitochondrial inheritance in the pig can provide an insight into human mitochondrial diseases and new knowledge on polyspermy defense mechanisms could contribute to the development of new male contraceptives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michal Zigo
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65211, USA.
| | - Pavla Maňásková-Postlerová
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Biotechnology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, 25250, Vestec, Czech Republic.,Department of Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences, 16521, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Dalen Zuidema
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65211, USA
| | - Karl Kerns
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65211, USA
| | - Věra Jonáková
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Biotechnology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, 25250, Vestec, Czech Republic
| | - Lucie Tůmová
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences, 16521, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Filipa Bubeníčková
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences, 16521, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Peter Sutovsky
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65211, USA.,Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Women's Health, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65211, USA
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30
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Habib SAEH, Toson EAM, Al-Mutairi FM, Al-Alawy AI, Elfaki I, El-Baz RA, Elafify ME. Effects of Trace Metals Levels and Hyaluronic Acid Degrading Enzymes Activities on Human Sperm Function. Pak J Biol Sci 2020; 22:444-451. [PMID: 31930875 DOI: 10.3923/pjbs.2019.444.451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE Deficiency of trace elements that are cofactors of fertilizing enzymes can cause sperm dysfunction and male infertility. In the present work, the levels of some trace metals (Cu, Zn and Mn) and the activities of hyaluronic acid degrading enzymes were evaluated in semen from fertile and infertile men. MATERIALS AND METHODS Two hundred and sixteen semen samples were divided into 5 groups: Group 1 (G1) was healthy controls and another 4 infertile group 2-5 according to WHO criteria. Levels of Cu, Zn and Mn and activities of hyaluronidase (Hase), N-acetyl-β-D-glucosaminidase (NAG) and β-D-glucuronidase (β-Gluc) were estimated in the sperms and seminal plasma of these groups. RESULTS Significant decreases in Cu2+ and Zn2+ contents were observed in seminal plasma and sperms homogenate of the infertile groups. Moreover, the activities of the 3 hyaluronic acid degrading enzymes in sperms homogenate supernatant of infertile males were highly reduced compared to the control group. The Hase activity in seminal plasma of all groups was completely absent. The activity of β-Gluc in seminal plasma of infertile males was highly elevated than control group. CONCLUSION The disturbance in levels of trace metals and the hyaluronic acid degrading enzymes activities are associated with human male infertility and may be useful tools in predicting semen quality.
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31
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Banliat C, Tsikis G, Labas V, Teixeira-Gomes AP, Com E, Lavigne R, Pineau C, Guyonnet B, Mermillod P, Saint-Dizier M. Identification of 56 Proteins Involved in Embryo-Maternal Interactions in the Bovine Oviduct. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21020466. [PMID: 31940782 PMCID: PMC7013689 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21020466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2019] [Revised: 01/08/2020] [Accepted: 01/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The bovine embryo develops in contact with the oviductal fluid (OF) during the first 4–5 days of pregnancy. The aim of this study was to decipher the protein interactions occurring between the developing embryo and surrounding OF. In-vitro produced 4–6 cell and morula embryos were incubated or not (controls) in post-ovulatory OF (OF-treated embryos) and proteins were then analyzed and quantified by high resolution mass spectrometry (MS) in both embryo groups and in OF. A comparative analysis of MS data allowed the identification and quantification of 56 embryo-interacting proteins originated from the OF, including oviductin (OVGP1) and several annexins (ANXA1, ANXA2, ANXA4) as the most abundant ones. Some embryo-interacting proteins were developmental stage-specific, showing a modulating role of the embryo in protein interactions. Three interacting proteins (OVGP1, ANXA1 and PYGL) were immunolocalized in the perivitelline space and in blastomeres, showing that OF proteins were able to cross the zona pellucida and be taken up by the embryo. Interacting proteins were involved in a wide range of functions, among which metabolism and cellular processes were predominant. This study identified for the first time a high number of oviductal embryo-interacting proteins, paving the way for further targeted studies of proteins potentially involved in the establishment of pregnancy in cattle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles Banliat
- INRAE, CNRS, Université de Tours, IFCE, UMR PRC, 37380 Nouzilly, France; (C.B.); (G.T.); (V.L.); (P.M.)
- Union Evolution, 35530 Noyal-sur-Vilaine, France;
| | - Guillaume Tsikis
- INRAE, CNRS, Université de Tours, IFCE, UMR PRC, 37380 Nouzilly, France; (C.B.); (G.T.); (V.L.); (P.M.)
| | - Valérie Labas
- INRAE, CNRS, Université de Tours, IFCE, UMR PRC, 37380 Nouzilly, France; (C.B.); (G.T.); (V.L.); (P.M.)
- INRAE, Université de Tours, CHU de Tours, Plate-forme CIRE, PAIB, 37380 Nouzilly, France;
| | - Ana-Paula Teixeira-Gomes
- INRAE, Université de Tours, CHU de Tours, Plate-forme CIRE, PAIB, 37380 Nouzilly, France;
- INRAE, UMR 1282 ISP, 37380 Nouzilly, France
| | - Emmanuelle Com
- Inserm, University of Rennes, EHESP, Irset (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail)—UMR_S 1085, 35000 Rennes, France; (E.C.); (R.L.); (C.P.)
- Protim, Inserm U1085, Irset, Campus de Beaulieu, University of Rennes 1, Proteomics Core Facility, 35000 Rennes, France
| | - Régis Lavigne
- Inserm, University of Rennes, EHESP, Irset (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail)—UMR_S 1085, 35000 Rennes, France; (E.C.); (R.L.); (C.P.)
- Protim, Inserm U1085, Irset, Campus de Beaulieu, University of Rennes 1, Proteomics Core Facility, 35000 Rennes, France
| | - Charles Pineau
- Inserm, University of Rennes, EHESP, Irset (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail)—UMR_S 1085, 35000 Rennes, France; (E.C.); (R.L.); (C.P.)
- Protim, Inserm U1085, Irset, Campus de Beaulieu, University of Rennes 1, Proteomics Core Facility, 35000 Rennes, France
| | | | - Pascal Mermillod
- INRAE, CNRS, Université de Tours, IFCE, UMR PRC, 37380 Nouzilly, France; (C.B.); (G.T.); (V.L.); (P.M.)
| | - Marie Saint-Dizier
- INRAE, CNRS, Université de Tours, IFCE, UMR PRC, 37380 Nouzilly, France; (C.B.); (G.T.); (V.L.); (P.M.)
- Faculty of Sciences and Techniques, Department Agrosciences, University of Tours, 37000 Tours, France
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +33-2-47-42-75-08
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Composing the Early Embryonic Microenvironment: Physiology and Regulation of Oviductal Secretions. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 21:ijms21010223. [PMID: 31905654 PMCID: PMC6982147 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21010223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2019] [Revised: 12/19/2019] [Accepted: 12/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The oviductal fluid is the first environment experienced by mammalian embryos at the very beginning of life. However, it has long been believed that the oviductal environment was not essential for proper embryonic development. Successful establishment of in vitro embryo production techniques (which completely bypass the oviduct) have reinforced this idea. Yet, it became evident that in vitro produced embryos differ markedly from their in vivo counterparts, and these differences are associated with lower pregnancy outcomes and more health issues after birth. Nowadays, researchers consider the oviduct as the most suitable microenvironment for early embryonic development and a substantial effort is made to understand its dynamic, species-specific functions. In this review, we touch on the origin and molecular components of the oviductal fluid in mammals, where recent progress has been made thanks to the wider use of mass spectrometry techniques. Some of the factors and processes known to regulate oviductal secretions, including the embryo itself, as well as ovulation, insemination, endogenous and exogenous hormones, and metabolic and heat stress, are summarized. Special emphasis is laid on farm animals because, owing to the availability of sample material and the economic importance of fertility in livestock husbandry, a large part of the work on this topic has been carried out in domestic animals used for dairy and/or meat production.
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Hazano K, Haneda S, Kayano M, Matsui M. Possible roles of local oviductal estradiol-17β in luteal formation phase on the function of bovine oviductal epithelium. J Vet Med Sci 2019; 81:1817-1823. [PMID: 31666443 PMCID: PMC6943306 DOI: 10.1292/jvms.19-0411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Oviducts play an important role in the reproductive process, such as in gamete transport,
fertilization, and early embryonic development. However, the regulation of oviductal
function during luteal formation phase (3−5 days post-ovulation), which is a crucial phase
for early embryonic development, remains poorly understood. This study investigated the
roles of oviductal estradiol-17β (E2) and progesterone (P4) concentrations on bovine
oviductal functions in the luteal formation phase using RT-qPCR for some genes of
oviductal epithelial cells. Bovine oviducts ipsilateral to the corpus luteum (CL) in the
luteal formation phase were collected from a slaughterhouse. The concentration of
oviductal E2 was positively correlated with the mRNA expressions of nuclear P4 receptor
(PGR) and protein disulfide isomerase family A member 4
(PDIA4), which is related to protein secretion, in the ampulla and with
estrogen receptor α (ESR1) mRNA expression in the isthmus. In contrast,
the concentration of oviductal P4 was not correlated with oviductal mRNA expressions in
either regions. Furthermore, for the candidate factor related to the oviductal E2
concentration, the CL parameters (CL size and tissue P4 concentration), first-wave
dominant follicle (W1DF) parameters (follicle size and intrafollicular E2 concentration),
and W1DF location (ipsilateral or contralateral to CL) did not influence the oviductal E2
concentration. In conclusion, our results suggest that the local oviductal E2 is a
potential oviductal function regulator during the luteal formation phase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ken Hazano
- The United Graduate School of Veterinary Sciences, Gifu University, 1-1 Yanagido, Gifu 501-1193, Japan.,Department of Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Inada-cho, Obihiro, Hokkaido 080-8555, Japan
| | - Shingo Haneda
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Inada-cho, Obihiro, Hokkaido 080-8555, Japan
| | - Mitsunori Kayano
- Graduate School of Animal and Food Hygiene, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Inada-cho, Obihiro, Hokkaido 080-8555, Japan
| | - Motozumi Matsui
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Inada-cho, Obihiro, Hokkaido 080-8555, Japan
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Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of different timing for frozen-thawed bovine ampullary epithelial cell (BAEC) and bovine oviductal epithelial cell (BOEC) co-culture on the development and quality of bovine embryos produced in vitro. Embryo development was assessed by day 8 blastocyst yield, whereas embryo quality was determined using blastocyst differential cell count, cryotolerance and the expression of selected genes related to embryo quality. The results showed that the presence of BAECs during the last 6 h of in vitro maturation (IVM) increased blastocyst yield and survival of the vitrified-warmed blastocysts. In addition, embryos produced in the presence of BAECs during the last 6 h of IVM or in the presence of BOECs during the first 4 days of in vitro culture (IVC) showed a greater number of trophectoderm cells and a greater inner cell mass. In terms of gene expression, IFN-T was downregulated and PLAC8, AQP3 and ATP1A1 were upregulated in the presence of the BAECs during the last 6 h of the IVM and/or in the presence of BOECs during the first 4 days of IVC. In conclusion, co-culturing bovine oocytes with a frozen-thawed ampullary cell monolayer during the last 6 h of maturation increased blastocyst yield and quality.
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35
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Fontes PK, Razza EM, Pupulim AGR, Barros CM, de Souza Castilho AC. Equine chorionic gonadotropin increases estradiol levels in the bovine oviduct and drives the transcription of genes related to fertilization in superstimulated cows. Mol Reprod Dev 2019; 86:1582-1591. [PMID: 31353672 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2018] [Accepted: 06/30/2019] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
In the bovine oviduct, estradiol (E2) stimulates secretion and cell proliferation, whereas progesterone (P4) suppresses them. In this study, we have evaluated the effect of two superstimulatory protocols (follicle-stimulating hormone [FSH] or FSH combined with equine chorionic gonadotropin [eCG]) on the oviductal levels of E2 and P4 and its outcome on oviductal cells. Compared with the control group (a single pre-ovulatory follicle), we have observed that the cows submitted to FSH/eCG treatment showed a higher concentration of E2 in the oviduct tissue, together with a higher abundance of messenger RNA encoding steroid receptors (ESR1 and progesterone receptor), and genes linked to gamete interactions and regulation of polyspermy (oviduct-specific glycoprotein 1, heat-shock protein family A member 5, α-l-fucosidase 1 [FUCA1], and FUCA2) in the infundibulum and ampulla segments of the oviduct. However, we did not observe any modulation of gene expression in the isthmus segment. Even though the FSH protocol upregulated some of the genes analyzed, we may infer that the steady effect of FSH combined with eCG on oviduct regulation might benefit fertilization and may potentially increase pregnancy rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia K Fontes
- Departament of Pharmacology, Institute of Biosciences, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Eduardo M Razza
- Departament of Pharmacology, Institute of Biosciences, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Ciro M Barros
- Departament of Pharmacology, Institute of Biosciences, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
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36
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Kurata S, Hiradate Y, Umezu K, Hara K, Tanemura K. Capacitation of mouse sperm is modulated by gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) concentration. J Reprod Dev 2019; 65:327-334. [PMID: 31178551 PMCID: PMC6708848 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2019-008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
In mammals, ejaculated sperm acquire their fertilizing ability during migration through the female reproductive tract, which secretes several factors that contribute to sperm capacitation.
Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is a well-known neurotransmitter in the central nervous system, but additionally enhances the sperm acrosome reaction in the rat and cow. However, the detailed
effects of GABA concentration on sperm function remain unclear. In this study, we detected the presence of the GABA type A receptor (GABA A) in mouse epididymal sperm by western blot
analysis and in the sperm acrosome by immunocytochemistry. We also investigated the effects of GABA on sperm fertilizing ability. We found that GABA facilitated the tyrosine phosphorylation
of sperm proteins, which is an index of sperm capacitation. GABA also promoted the acrosome reaction, which was suppressed by a selective GABA A receptor antagonist. We then found that the
effective GABA concentration for the acrosome reaction corresponds to sperm concentration, but we did not detect any marked effect of GABA on sperm motility using a computer-assisted sperm
analysis system. Using immunohistochemistry, we also detected GABA expression in the epithelia of the mouse uterus and oviduct. Furthermore, we found that the mRNA levels of glutamate
decarboxylase (Gad), which generates GABA from L-glutamate, were higher in the oviduct than in the uterus, and that Gad mRNA levels were higher at estrus
than at the diestrus stage. These results indicate that the GABA concentration can act as a modulator of the acrosome reaction and sperm capacitation in the female reproductive tract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shouhei Kurata
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Development, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Tohoku University, Miyagi 980-0845, Japan
| | - Yuuki Hiradate
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Development, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Tohoku University, Miyagi 980-0845, Japan
| | - Kohei Umezu
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Development, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Tohoku University, Miyagi 980-0845, Japan
| | - Kenshiro Hara
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Development, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Tohoku University, Miyagi 980-0845, Japan
| | - Kentaro Tanemura
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Development, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Tohoku University, Miyagi 980-0845, Japan
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37
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Massa E, Prez G, Zumoffen C, Morente C, Ghersevich S. S100 A9 is expressed and secreted by the oviduct epithelium, interacts with gametes and affects parameters of human sperm capacitation in vitro. J Cell Biochem 2019; 120:17662-17676. [PMID: 31131471 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.29033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2019] [Revised: 04/29/2019] [Accepted: 04/30/2019] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Our previous findings demonstrate that some oviductal secretion proteins bind to gametes and affect sperm physiology and gamete interaction. One of these proteins possesses an estimated molecular weight of 14 kDa. The objective of this study was to isolate and identify this 14 kDa protein, to localize it in the human oviduct, to detect gamete binding sites for the protein, and to evaluate its effects on sperm capacitation parameters and gamete interaction. Explants from the human oviductal tissues of premenopausal women were cultured in the presence of [35 S]-Methionine-proteins ([35S]-Met-proteins). De novo synthesized secreted [35 S]-Met-proteins were isolated from the culture media by affinity chromatography using their sperm membrane binding ability and analysed by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry peptide sequencing, human S100 A9 was identified as one of the isolated proteins from the 14 kDa protein band. S100 A9 was detected in oviduct epithelium and oviduct secretion using immunohistochemistry and a Western blot. S100 A9 binding to human oocytes and spermatozoa was assessed by indirect immunofluorescence. The acrosome reaction (AR) affected S100 A9 ability to bind sperm cells. The presence of S100 A9 significantly increased both the induced AR and the sperm protein tyrosine phosphorylation, with respect to controls. However, the protein did not affect sperm-zona pellucida interaction. Results indicate that S100 A9 is present in the human oviduct and that it modulates parameters of sperm capacitation in vitro. Hence, the protein might contribute to the regulation of the reproductive process in the oviductal microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Estefanía Massa
- Area of Clinical Biochemistry, Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas, Universidad Nacional de Rosario, Rosario, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Gastón Prez
- Area of Clinical Biochemistry, Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas, Universidad Nacional de Rosario, Rosario, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Carlos Zumoffen
- Area of Clinical Biochemistry, Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas, Universidad Nacional de Rosario, Rosario, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Carlos Morente
- Biological Laboratory, Area of Reproduction, PROAR-Assisted Reproduction Program of Rosario, Rosario, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Sergio Ghersevich
- Area of Clinical Biochemistry, Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas, Universidad Nacional de Rosario, Rosario, Santa Fe, Argentina
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38
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Queiroz-Castro VLD, da Costa EP, Alves SVP, Guimarães JD, Dohanik VT, Santos MR, de Souza LFL, Ribeiro CG, Caldas RT, Silva-Júnior A. Detection of bovine herpesvirus 1 in genital organs of naturally infected cows. Theriogenology 2019; 130:125-129. [PMID: 30884333 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2019.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2018] [Revised: 02/11/2019] [Accepted: 03/05/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Bovine herpesvirus 1 (BoHV-1) is a causative agent of respiratory diseases in cattle, and infection with BoHV-1 can cause reproductive failure. There are few studies regarding infections in natural conditions in the reproductive organs of bovine animals. In this context, this study investigated the presence of BoHV-1 in the uterus, oviducts, and ovarian tissues of naturally infected cows. The three genital structures were evaluated for the presence or absence of BoHV-1 by immunofluorescence assay using confocal scanning laser microscopy. Blood and genital organ samples of 75 cows unvaccinated against BoHV-1 were used. Fragments of uterus, oviduct, and ovarian tissue were processed and analyzed by confocal scanning laser microscopy. Neutralization by antibodies was observed in 54.7% (41/75) of the serum samples tested. BoHV-1 were detected in the uterus of all the seropositive cows. The oviducts contained BoHV-1 in 73.2% of the samples and the ovaries contained BoHV-1 in 58.5% of the samples from seropositive animals. The presence of the virus was not observed in any of the genital organs of seronegative animals. There was no correlation between the antibody titer and the detection of BoHV-1 in positive tissue in the different genital organs or with the number of infected structures per animal. The detection of BoHV-1 in 100% of the uterus samples from seropositive cows suggests that this organ may be a source of infection for the fetus, resulting in abortion. Further studies on the mechanism by which BoHV-1 infects the fetus via the uterine route should be performed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa Lopes Dias Queiroz-Castro
- Department of Veterinary, Division of Animal Reproduction, Federal University of Vicosa, University Campus, PH Rolfs avenue, 36570-000, Vicosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
| | - Eduardo Paulino da Costa
- Department of Veterinary, Division of Animal Reproduction, Federal University of Vicosa, University Campus, PH Rolfs avenue, 36570-000, Vicosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Saullo Vinicius Pereira Alves
- Department of Veterinary, Division of Animal Reproduction, Federal University of Vicosa, University Campus, PH Rolfs avenue, 36570-000, Vicosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - José Domingos Guimarães
- Department of Veterinary, Division of Animal Reproduction, Federal University of Vicosa, University Campus, PH Rolfs avenue, 36570-000, Vicosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Virgínia Teles Dohanik
- Department of General Biology, Division of Cell Biology and Structural, Federal University of Vicosa, University Campus, PH Rolfs avenue, 36570-000, Vicosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Marcus Rebouças Santos
- Department of Veterinary, Division of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Federal University of Vicosa, University Campus, PH Rolfs avenue, 36570-000, Vicosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Luiz Fernando Lino de Souza
- Department of Veterinary, Division of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Federal University of Vicosa, University Campus, PH Rolfs avenue, 36570-000, Vicosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Caroline Gomides Ribeiro
- Department of Veterinary, Division of Animal Reproduction, Federal University of Vicosa, University Campus, PH Rolfs avenue, 36570-000, Vicosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Rebeca Toledo Caldas
- Department of Veterinary, Division of Animal Reproduction, Federal University of Vicosa, University Campus, PH Rolfs avenue, 36570-000, Vicosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Abelardo Silva-Júnior
- Department of Veterinary, Division of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Federal University of Vicosa, University Campus, PH Rolfs avenue, 36570-000, Vicosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil
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39
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Machado-Neves M, Assis WAD, Gomes MG, Oliveira CAD. Oviduct morphology and estrogen receptors ERα and ERβ expression in captive Chinchilla lanigera (Hystricomorpha: Chinchillidae). Gen Comp Endocrinol 2019; 273:32-39. [PMID: 29574151 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2018.03.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2018] [Revised: 03/11/2018] [Accepted: 03/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Chinchilla lanigera is a hystricomorph rodent from South America whose reproductive biology presents particular characteristics that distinguishes it from other Rodentia species, such as low reproductive rate, seasonal breeding pattern, and long estrous cycle. Nevertheless, reproductive features in female chinchillas are still poorly investigated, with a scarce knowledge concerning the estrous cycle and the histology of reproductive organs. In this study, we investigate the morphology, histomorphometry, secretory activity, and immunolocalization of estrogen receptors ERα and ERβ in oviducts of nulliparous chinchillas, euthanized at fall season in Brazil. Follicular phase of estrous cycle of all studied animals was characterized by ovary and uterine morphology inspection, as well as vaginal cytology. Similar to other mammals, the oviduct wall of infundibulum, ampulla and isthmus was composed of mucosa, muscle, and serosa layers. Morphometric data of oviduct layers were used for identifying each oviduct segment. In the follicular phase, the oviduct was characterized by intense secretory activity, mainly in the ampulla, and expression of ERα and ERβ throughout the oviduct epithelium. Both ERα and ERβ were also detected in the connective tissue and smooth muscle cells. Our findings point out to the important role of estrogen in this female organ. Similar wide distribution of both ER proteins has been described for human Fallopian tube. Taken together, our data add to the understanding of the reproductive biology of female chinchillas, and may assist in the intensive breeding of this species and any eventual endeavor for conservation of chinchillas in the wild.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Machado-Neves
- Departamento de Biologia Geral, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, CEP 36570-900, Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
| | - Wiviane Alves de Assis
- Departamento de Morfologia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Cx Postal 486, CEP 31270-901, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Mardelene Geísa Gomes
- Escola de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, CEP 31270-901, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Cleida Aparecida de Oliveira
- Departamento de Morfologia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Cx Postal 486, CEP 31270-901, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
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40
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Velazquez MA, Fleming TP, Watkins AJ. Periconceptional environment and the developmental origins of disease. J Endocrinol 2019; 242:T33-T49. [PMID: 30707679 DOI: 10.1530/joe-18-0676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2018] [Accepted: 02/01/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The concept emerging from Professor David Barker’s seminal research on the developmental origins of later-life disease has progressed in many directions since it was first published. One critical question being when during gestation might environment alter the developmental programme with such enduring consequences. Here, we review the growing consensus from clinical and animal research that the period around conception, embracing gamete maturation and early embryogenesis might be the most vulnerable period. We focus on four types of environmental exposure shown to modify periconceptional reproduction and offspring development and health: maternal overnutrition and obesity; maternal undernutrition; paternal diet and health; and assisted reproductive technology. These conditions may act through diverse epigenetic, cellular and physiological mechanisms to alter gene expression and cellular signalling and function in the conceptus affecting offspring growth and metabolism leading to increased risk for cardiometabolic and neurological disease in later life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miguel A Velazquez
- School of Natural and Environmental Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
| | - Tom P Fleming
- Biological Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
| | - Adam J Watkins
- Division of Child Health, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
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41
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Yu H, Hackenbroch L, Meyer FRL, Reiser J, Razzazi-Fazeli E, Nöbauer K, Besenfelder U, Vogl C, Brem G, Mayrhofer C. Identification of Rabbit Oviductal Fluid Proteins Involved in Pre-Fertilization Processes by Quantitative Proteomics. Proteomics 2019; 19:e1800319. [PMID: 30637940 DOI: 10.1002/pmic.201800319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2018] [Revised: 12/28/2018] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Oviductal fluid (ODF) proteins modulate and support reproductive processes in the oviduct. In the present study, proteins involved in the biological events that precede fertilization have been identified in the rabbit ODF proteome, isolated from the ampulla and isthmus of the oviduct at different time points within 8 h after intrauterine insemination. A workflow is used that integrates lectin affinity capture with stable-isotope dimethyl labeling prior to nanoLC-MS/MS analysis. In total, over 400 ODF proteins, including 214 lectin enriched glycoproteins, are identified and quantified. Selected data are validated by Western blot analysis. Spatiotemporal alterations in the abundance of ODF proteins in response to insemination are detected by global analysis. A subset of 63 potentially biologically relevant ODF proteins is identified, including extracellular matrix components, chaperones, oxidoreductases, and immunity proteins. Functional enrichment analysis reveals an altered peptidase regulator activity upon insemination. In addition to protein identification and abundance changes, N-glycopeptide analysis further identifies 281 glycosites on 199 proteins. Taken together, these results show, for the first time, the evolving oviductal milieu early upon insemination. The identified proteins are likely those that modulate in vitro processes, including spermatozoa function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hans Yu
- Institute of Biotechnology in Animal Production, Interuniversity Department for Agrobiotechnology (IFA Tulln), University of Natural Resources and Applied Life Sciences Vienna, 3430, Tulln, Austria.,Institute of Animal Breeding and Genetics, Department for Biomedical Sciences, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, 1210, Vienna, Austria
| | - Lena Hackenbroch
- Institute of Biotechnology in Animal Production, Interuniversity Department for Agrobiotechnology (IFA Tulln), University of Natural Resources and Applied Life Sciences Vienna, 3430, Tulln, Austria.,Institute of Animal Breeding and Genetics, Department for Biomedical Sciences, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, 1210, Vienna, Austria
| | - Florian R L Meyer
- Institute of Biotechnology in Animal Production, Interuniversity Department for Agrobiotechnology (IFA Tulln), University of Natural Resources and Applied Life Sciences Vienna, 3430, Tulln, Austria.,Institute of Animal Breeding and Genetics, Department for Biomedical Sciences, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, 1210, Vienna, Austria
| | - Judith Reiser
- Institute of Molecular Animal Breeding and Biotechnology, Ludwig-Maximilian University, 85764, Munich, Germany
| | - Ebrahim Razzazi-Fazeli
- VetCore Facility for Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, 1210, Vienna, Austria
| | - Katharina Nöbauer
- VetCore Facility for Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, 1210, Vienna, Austria
| | - Urban Besenfelder
- Reproduction Centre Wieselburg, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, 3250, Vienna, Austria
| | - Claus Vogl
- Institute of Animal Breeding and Genetics, Department for Biomedical Sciences, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, 1210, Vienna, Austria
| | - Gottfried Brem
- Institute of Biotechnology in Animal Production, Interuniversity Department for Agrobiotechnology (IFA Tulln), University of Natural Resources and Applied Life Sciences Vienna, 3430, Tulln, Austria.,Institute of Animal Breeding and Genetics, Department for Biomedical Sciences, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, 1210, Vienna, Austria
| | - Corina Mayrhofer
- Institute of Biotechnology in Animal Production, Interuniversity Department for Agrobiotechnology (IFA Tulln), University of Natural Resources and Applied Life Sciences Vienna, 3430, Tulln, Austria.,Institute of Animal Breeding and Genetics, Department for Biomedical Sciences, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, 1210, Vienna, Austria
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42
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Bathala P, Fereshteh Z, Li K, Al-Dossary AA, Galileo DS, Martin-DeLeon PA. Oviductal extracellular vesicles (oviductosomes, OVS) are conserved in humans: murine OVS play a pivotal role in sperm capacitation and fertility. Mol Hum Reprod 2019; 24:143-157. [PMID: 29370405 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gay003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2017] [Accepted: 01/20/2018] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTIONS Are extracellular vesicles (EVs) in the murine oviduct (oviductosomes, OVS) conserved in humans and do they play a role in the fertility of Pmca4-/- females? SUMMARY ANSWER OVS and their fertility-modulating proteins are conserved in humans, arise via the apocrine pathway, and mediate a compensatory upregulation of PMCA1 (plasma membrane Ca2+-ATPase 1) in Pmca4-/- female mice during proestrus/estrus, to account for their fertility. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Recently murine OVS were identified and shown during proestrus/estrus to express elevated levels of PMCA4 which they can deliver to sperm. PMCA4 is the major Ca2+ efflux pump in murine sperm and Pmca4 deletion leads to loss of sperm motility and male infertility as there is no compensatory upregulation of the remaining Ca2+ pump, PMCA1. Of the four family members of PMCAs (PMCA1-4), PMCA1 and PMCA4 are ubiquitous, and to date there have been no reports of one isoform being upregulated to compensate for another in any organ/tissue. Since Pmca4-/- females are fertile, despite the abundant expression of PMCA4 in wild-type (WT) OVS, we propose that OVS serve a role of packaging and delivering to sperm elevated levels of PMCA1 in Pmca4-/- during proestrus/estrus to compensate for PMCA4's absence. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Fallopian tubes from pre-menopausal women undergoing hysterectomy were used to study EVs in the luminal fluid. Oviducts from sexually mature WT mice were sectioned after perfusion fixation to detect EVs in situ. Oviducts were recovered from WT and Pmca4-/- after hormonally induced estrus and sectioned for PMCA1 immunofluorescence (IF) (detected with confocal microscopy) and hematoxylin and eosin staining. Reproductive tissues, luminal fluids and EVs were recovered after induced estrus and after natural cycling for western blot analysis of PMCA1 and qRT-PCR of Pmca1 to compare expression levels in WT and Pmca4-/-. OVS, uterosomes, and epididymal luminal fluid were included in the comparisons. WT and Pmca4-/- OVS were analyzed for the presence of known PMCA4 partners in sperm and their ability to interact with PMCA1, via co-immunoprecipitation. In vitro uptake of PMCA1 from OVS was analyzed in capacitated and uncapacitated sperm via quantitative western blot analysis, IF localization and flow cytometry. Caudal sperm were also assayed for uptake of tyrosine-phosphorylated proteins which were shown to be present in OVS. Finally, PMCA1 and PMCA4 in OVS and that delivered to sperm were assayed for enzymatic activity. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Human fallopian tubes were flushed to recover luminal fluid which was processed for OVS via ultracentrifugation. Human OVS were negatively stained for transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and subjected to immunogold labeling, to detect PMCA4. Western analysis was used to detect HSC70 (an EV biomarker), PMCA1 and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) which is a fertility-modulating protein delivered to human sperm by prostasomes. Oviducts of sexually mature female mice were sectioned after perfusion fixation for TEM tomography to obtain 3D information and to distinguish cross-sections of EVs from those of microvilli and cilia. Murine tissues, luminal fluids and EVs were assayed for PMCA1 (IF and western blot) or qRT-PCR. PMCA1 levels from western blots were quantified, using band densities and compared in WT and Pmca4-/- after induced estrus and in proestrus/estrus and metestrus/diestrus in cycling females. In vitro uptake of PMCA1 and tyrosine-phosphorylated proteins was quantified with flow cytometry and/or quantitative western blot. Ca2+-ATPase activity in OVS and sperm before and after PMCA1 and PMCA4 uptake was assayed, via the enzymatic hydrolysis rate of ATP. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE TEM revealed that human oviducts contain EVs (exosomal and microvesicular). These EVs contain PMCA4 (immunolabeling), eNOS and PMCA1 (western blot) in their cargo. TEM tomography showed the murine oviduct with EV-containing blebs which typify the apocrine pathway for EV biogenesis. Western blots revealed that during proestrus/estrus PMCA1 was significantly elevated in the oviductal luminal fluid (OLF) (P = 0.02) and in OVS (P = 0.03) of Pmca4-/-, compared to WT. Further, while PMCA1 levels did not fluctuate in OLF during the cycle in WT, they were significantly (P = 0.02) higher in proestrus/estrus than at metestrus/diestrus in Pmca4-/-. The elevated levels of PMCA1 in proestrus/estrus, which mimics PMCA4 in WT, is OLF/OVS-specific, and is not seen in oviductal tissues, uterosomes or epididymal luminal fluid of Pmca4-/-. However, qRT-PCR revealed significantly elevated levels of Pmca1 transcript in Pmca4-/- oviductal tissues, compared to WT. PMCA1 could be transferred from OVS to sperm and the levels were significantly higher for capacitated vs uncapacitated sperm, as assessed by flow cytometry (P = 0.001) after 3 h co-incubation, quantitative western blot (P < 0.05) and the frequency of immuno-labeled sperm (P < 0.001) after 30 min co-incubation. Tyrosine phosphorylated proteins were discovered in murine OVS and could be delivered to sperm after their co-incubation with OVS, as detected by western, immunofluorescence localization, and flow cytometry. PMCA1 and PMCA4 in OVS were shown to be enzymatically active and this activity increased in sperm after OVS interaction. LARGE SCALE DATA None. LIMITATIONS REASONS FOR CAUTION Although oviductal tissues of WT and Pmca4-/- showed no significant difference in PMCA1 levels, Pmca4-/- levels of OVS/OLF during proestrus/estrus were significantly higher than in WT. We have attributed this enrichment or upregulation of PMCA1 in Pmca4-/- partly to selective packaging in OVS to compensate for the lack of PMCA4. However, in the absence of a difference between WT and Pmca4-/- in the PMCA1 levels in oviductal tissues as a whole, we cannot rule out significantly higher PMCA1 expression in the oviductal epithelium that gives rise to the OVS as significantly higher Pmca1 transcripts were detected in Pmca4-/-. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Since OVS and fertility-modulating cargo components are conserved in humans, it suggests that murine OVS role in regulating the expression of proteins required for capacitation and fertility is also conserved. Secondly, OVS may explain some of the differences in in vivo and in vitro fertilization for mouse mutants, as seen in mice lacking the gene for FER which is the enzyme required for sperm protein tyrosine phosphorylation. Our observation that murine OVS carry and can modulate sperm protein tyrosine phosphorylation by delivering them to sperm provides an explanation for the in vivo fertility of Fer mutants, not seen in vitro. Finally, our findings have implications for infertility treatment and exosome therapeutics. STUDY FUNDING AND COMPETING INTEREST(S) The work was supported by National Institute of Health (RO3HD073523 and 5P20RR015588) grants to P.A.M.-D. There are no conflicts of interests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pradeepthi Bathala
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19716, USA
| | - Zeinab Fereshteh
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19716, USA
| | - Kun Li
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19716, USA.,Department of Reproductive Physiology, Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences, Room 205 B, Building 3, 182 Tian Mu Shan Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310013, China
| | - Amal A Al-Dossary
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19716, USA.,Department of Biology, College of Medicine, University of Dammam (UOD), PO Box 2435, Dammam 31451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Deni S Galileo
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19716, USA
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Abstract
SummarySpermatogenesis is a dynamic process that culminates in the production of mature spermatozoa in the seminiferous tubules of sexually mature animals. Although sperm leaving the testis are fully differentiated, they must further undergo two additional maturation steps before acquiring the capability to fertilize the egg. Such processes take place during the epididymal residency and transport in the seminal fluid during ejaculation and, after delivery into the female reproductive tract, during the journey aiming the encountering the egg in the oviduct. Throughout this trip, spermatozoa are exposed to different reproductive fluids whose molecular compositions regulate the progress towards obtaining a fertilized competent cell. This review summarizes the evidence obtained so far supporting the participation of male and female reproductive tract-derived proteins in the modulation of sperm fertilizing ability and discusses the mechanisms by which such regulation may be accomplished.
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Alves SVP, da Costa EP, Queiroz-Castro VLD, Machado-Neves M, Guimarães JD, Gomes LL, Azevedo Junior MA, Júnior AS. Bovine herpesvirus 1 can impact the bovine oocyte development during in vitro maturation. Res Vet Sci 2018; 123:135-140. [PMID: 30641473 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2018.12.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2018] [Revised: 12/08/2018] [Accepted: 12/31/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Bovine herpesvirus 1 (BoHV-1) disseminates easily, is difficult to control, and is widely spread in cattle herds worldwide. BoHV-1 causes a broad range of losses to the cattle industry, mainly concerning reproduction. Previous studies involving experimental infection of BoHV-1 in an in vitro embryo production system have reported impairment of embryonic development by BoHV-1. In this study, we evaluated the interference of BoHV-1 in the in vitro maturation system of cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) and denuded oocytes (DOs) cultured with a cumulus cell suspension. Blood samples and ovaries were collected from slaughterhouse cows unvaccinated against BoHV-1. Using virus neutralization assays, the seropositive animals were classified according to their antibody titers. The oocytes were recovered by follicular aspiration and divided into two groups, COCs and DOs, which were evaluated for their nuclear maturation capacity using immunofluorescence assays by laser scanning confocal microscopy. Two experiments were carried out: (I) in vitro maturation of COCs and DOs after artificial infection of seronegative animals and (II) in vitro maturation of COCs and DOs of seropositive animals. In experiment I, a difference (P < 0.01) was observed between the maturation rates of the control group COCs (78.2%) and the infected COCs (43.6%). In experiment II, there was a difference (P < 0.01) in the maturation rate between animals with antibody titers ≥16 (56.9%) and the control group (79.4%). Immunofluorescence assays identified BoHV-1 in the COCs and DOs. Therefore, it was concluded that BoHV-1 affects the in vitro maturation process in both in vitro and natural infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saullo V P Alves
- Department of Veterinary, Division of Animal Reproduction, Laboratory of Oocyte Maturation and in vitro Fertilization, Federal University of Vicosa (Universidade Federal de Vicosa-UFV), Vicosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
| | - Eduardo P da Costa
- Department of Veterinary, Division of Animal Reproduction, Laboratory of Oocyte Maturation and in vitro Fertilization, Federal University of Vicosa (Universidade Federal de Vicosa-UFV), Vicosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
| | - Vanessa L D Queiroz-Castro
- Department of Veterinary, Division of Animal Reproduction, Laboratory of Oocyte Maturation and in vitro Fertilization, Federal University of Vicosa (Universidade Federal de Vicosa-UFV), Vicosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
| | - Mariana Machado-Neves
- Department of General Biology, Laboratory of Structural Biology, UFV, Vicosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
| | - José D Guimarães
- Department of Veterinary, Division of Animal Reproduction, Laboratory of Oocyte Maturation and in vitro Fertilization, Federal University of Vicosa (Universidade Federal de Vicosa-UFV), Vicosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
| | - Lidiane L Gomes
- Department of Veterinary, Division of Animal Reproduction, Laboratory of Oocyte Maturation and in vitro Fertilization, Federal University of Vicosa (Universidade Federal de Vicosa-UFV), Vicosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Marcos A Azevedo Junior
- Department of Veterinary, Division of Animal Reproduction, Laboratory of Oocyte Maturation and in vitro Fertilization, Federal University of Vicosa (Universidade Federal de Vicosa-UFV), Vicosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
| | - Abelardo Silva Júnior
- Department of Veterinary, Division of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Laboratory of Animal Virology, UFV, Vicosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
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45
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Lopera-Vasquez R, Hamdi M, Maillo V, Lloreda V, Coy P, Gutierrez-Adan A, Bermejo-Alvarez P, Rizos D. Effect of bovine oviductal fluid on development and quality of bovine embryos produced in vitro. Reprod Fertil Dev 2018; 29:621-629. [PMID: 26462440 DOI: 10.1071/rd15238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2015] [Accepted: 09/02/2015] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
To evaluate the effect of bovine oviductal fluid (OF) supplementation during in vitro culture of bovine embryos on their development and quality, in vitro-produced zygotes were cultured in synthetic oviductal fluid (SOF; negative control; C-) supplemented with OF or 5% fetal calf serum (positive control; C+). Embryo development was recorded on Days 7-9 after insemination and blastocyst quality was assessed through cryotolerance, differential cell counting of the inner cell mass and trophectoderm, and gene expression. OF was added to the culture medium at concentrations ranging from 0.625% to 25%. The higher OF concentrations (5%, 10% and 25%) had a detrimental effect on embryo development. Lower OF concentrations (1.25% and 0.625%) supported embryo development until Day 9 (27.5%) and produced higher-quality blastocysts, as reflected by their cryotolerance (53.6% and 57.7% survival at 72h, respectively, vs 25.9% in C+) and total cell number (mean (± s.e.m.) 165.1±4.7 and 156.2±4.2, respectively, vs 127.7±4.9 in C- and 143.1±4.9 in C+). Consistent with these data, upregulation of the water channel aquaporin 3 (AQP3) mRNA was observed in blastocysts supplemented with 1.25% OF compared with C- and C+. Serum supplementation resulted in a reduction in the expression of glucose and lipid metabolism-related genes and downregulation of the epigenetic-related genes DNA methyltransferase 3A (DNMT3A) and insulin-like growth factor 2 receptor (IGF2R). In conclusion, in vitro culture with low concentrations of OF has a positive effect on the development and quality of bovine embryos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ricaurte Lopera-Vasquez
- Departamento de Reproducción Animal, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA), Ctra. de la Coruna Km 5.9, Madrid, 28040, Spain
| | - Meriem Hamdi
- Departamento de Reproducción Animal, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA), Ctra. de la Coruna Km 5.9, Madrid, 28040, Spain
| | - Veronica Maillo
- Departamento de Reproducción Animal, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA), Ctra. de la Coruna Km 5.9, Madrid, 28040, Spain
| | - Valeriano Lloreda
- Departamento de Reproducción Animal, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA), Ctra. de la Coruna Km 5.9, Madrid, 28040, Spain
| | - Pilar Coy
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Murcia, Murcia, 30071, Spain
| | - Alfonso Gutierrez-Adan
- Departamento de Reproducción Animal, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA), Ctra. de la Coruna Km 5.9, Madrid, 28040, Spain
| | - Pablo Bermejo-Alvarez
- Departamento de Reproducción Animal, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA), Ctra. de la Coruna Km 5.9, Madrid, 28040, Spain
| | - Dimitrios Rizos
- Departamento de Reproducción Animal, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA), Ctra. de la Coruna Km 5.9, Madrid, 28040, Spain
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46
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López-Úbeda R, García-Vázquez FA, Gadea J, Matás C. Oviductal epithelial cells selected boar sperm according to their functional characteristics. Asian J Androl 2018; 19:396-403. [PMID: 27232850 PMCID: PMC5507082 DOI: 10.4103/1008-682x.173936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The interaction of oviductal epithelial cells (OECs) with the spermatozoa has beneficial effects on the sperm functions. The aim of this study is to evaluate the in vitro fertilizing capacity of incubating spermatozoa previously selected by density gradient in OEC and determinate some sperm characteristics that could explain the results obtained. In this study, we assessed in vitro fertilization (IVF), tyrosine phosphorylation, phosphatidylserine translocation, nuclear DNA fragmentation, and chromatin decondensation. Three experimental sperm groups, previously selected by Percoll gradient, were established according to the origin of the sperm used for IVF: (i) W30 group: spermatozoa were incubated with oocytes in the absence of OEC; (ii) NB group: after sperm incubation in OEC, the unbound spermatozoa were incubated with oocytes, in the absence of OEC; and (iii) B group: after sperm incubation with OEC, the bound spermatozoa were incubated with oocytes in the OEC plates. The results showed that sperm from the NB group led to a lower IVF yield, accompanied by low penetration rates (NB: 19.6%, B: 94.9%, and W30: 62.9%; P < 0.001) and problems of nuclear decondensation. Moreover, higher levels of tyrosine phosphorylation were observed in the NB group compared with the W30 and B groups (NB: 58.7%, B: 2.5%, and W30: 4.5%; P < 0.01). A similar trend was observed in phosphatidylserine translocation (NB: 93.7%, B: 5.7%, and W30: 44.2%; P < 0.01). These results demonstrate that the OEC exerts a rigorous degree of sperm selection, even within an already highly selected population of spermatozoa, and can capture the best functional spermatozoa for fertilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebeca López-Úbeda
- Department of Physiology, Veterinary Faculty, University of Murcia, International Excellence Campus for Higher Education and Research (Campus Mare Nostrum), Murcia 30100, Spain
| | - Francisco A García-Vázquez
- Department of Physiology, Veterinary Faculty, University of Murcia, International Excellence Campus for Higher Education and Research (Campus Mare Nostrum), Murcia 30100, Spain.,IMIB-Arrixaca (Institute for Biomedical Research of Murcia), Murcia, Spain
| | - Joaquín Gadea
- Department of Physiology, Veterinary Faculty, University of Murcia, International Excellence Campus for Higher Education and Research (Campus Mare Nostrum), Murcia 30100, Spain.,IMIB-Arrixaca (Institute for Biomedical Research of Murcia), Murcia, Spain
| | - Carmen Matás
- Department of Physiology, Veterinary Faculty, University of Murcia, International Excellence Campus for Higher Education and Research (Campus Mare Nostrum), Murcia 30100, Spain.,IMIB-Arrixaca (Institute for Biomedical Research of Murcia), Murcia, Spain
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47
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Lamy J, Nogues P, Combes-Soia L, Tsikis G, Labas V, Mermillod P, Druart X, Saint-Dizier M. Identification by proteomics of oviductal sperm-interacting proteins. Reproduction 2018. [PMID: 29540510 DOI: 10.1530/rep-17-0712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The interactions between oviductal fluid (OF) proteins and spermatozoa play major roles in sperm selection, storage and capacitation before fertilization. However, only a few sperm-interacting proteins in the OF has been identified and very little is known about the regulation of sperm-oviduct interactions across the estrous cycle. Samples of bovine frozen-thawed sperm from three bulls were incubated with OF at pre-, post-ovulatory stages (Pre-/Post-ov) or luteal phase (LP) of the estrous cycle (7 mg/mL proteins, treated groups) or with a protein-free media (control). The proteomes of sperm cells were assessed by nanoLC-MS/MS and quantified by label-free methods. A total of 27 sperm-interacting proteins originating in the OF were identified. Among those, 14 were detected at all stages, eight at Post-ov and LP and five only at LP. The sperm-interacting proteins detected at all stages or at LP and Post-ov were on average more abundant at LP than at other stages (P < 0.05). At Pre-ov, OVGP1 was the most abundant sperm-interacting protein while at Post-ov, ACTB, HSP27, MYH9, MYH14 and OVGP1 were predominant. Different patterns of abundance of sperm-interacting proteins related to the stage were evidenced, which greatly differed from those previously reported in the bovine OF. In conclusion, this study highlights the important regulations of sperm-oviduct interactions across the estrous cycle and provides new protein candidates that may modulate sperm functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Lamy
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC)UMR85, INRA, CNRS, Université de Tours, IFCE, Nouzilly, France
| | - Perrine Nogues
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC)UMR85, INRA, CNRS, Université de Tours, IFCE, Nouzilly, France
| | - Lucie Combes-Soia
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC)UMR85, INRA, CNRS, Université de Tours, IFCE, Nouzilly, France.,INRACIRE (Plate-forme de Chirurgie et d'Imagerie pour la Recherche et l'Enseignement), PAIB (Pôle d'Analyse et d'Imagerie des Biomolécules), Nouzilly, France
| | - Guillaume Tsikis
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC)UMR85, INRA, CNRS, Université de Tours, IFCE, Nouzilly, France
| | - Valérie Labas
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC)UMR85, INRA, CNRS, Université de Tours, IFCE, Nouzilly, France.,INRACIRE (Plate-forme de Chirurgie et d'Imagerie pour la Recherche et l'Enseignement), PAIB (Pôle d'Analyse et d'Imagerie des Biomolécules), Nouzilly, France
| | - Pascal Mermillod
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC)UMR85, INRA, CNRS, Université de Tours, IFCE, Nouzilly, France
| | - Xavier Druart
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC)UMR85, INRA, CNRS, Université de Tours, IFCE, Nouzilly, France
| | - Marie Saint-Dizier
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC)UMR85, INRA, CNRS, Université de Tours, IFCE, Nouzilly, France .,University of ToursFaculty of Sciences and Techniques, Tours, France
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48
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Desmet KLJ, Marei WFA, Pintelon I, Bols PEJ, Leroy JLMR. The effect of elevated non-esterified fatty acid concentrations on bovine spermatozoa and on oocyte in vitro fertilisation. Reprod Fertil Dev 2018; 30:1553-1565. [DOI: 10.1071/rd17507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2017] [Accepted: 04/25/2018] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Elevated non-esterified fatty acid (NEFA) concentrations, present in follicular and oviductal fluid, have been postulated as a causative link between metabolic disorders and subfertility. High NEFA conditions can directly disrupt oocyte maturation and developmental capacity after fertilisation. However, their influence on sperm function and the fertilisation process is not known. This study investigated the fertilisation process under high NEFA conditions. To differentiate between effects on both spermatozoa and oocytes or on spermatozoa only, different experiments were conducted. In the first experiment both gametes were simultaneously incubated during IVF under different conditions: (1) NEFA-free, solvent-free control conditions, (2) solvent control, (3) physiological concentrations of oleic (OA), palmitic (PA) and stearic (SA) acids or (4) pathophysiological concentrations of OA, PA and SA. In the second experiment spermatozoa were incubated (4 h) under the same treatment conditions prior to routine IVF. Gamete co-incubation resulted in reduced fertilisation and cleavage rates and increased prevalence of polyspermy. In the second experiment embryo developmental capacity and quality were not affected, although sperm motility and plasma membrane integrity were decreased. In conclusion, lipolytic conditions affected the fertilisation process mainly through an effect on the oocyte. Spermatozoa were still able to fertilise even though these conditions reduced sperm function.
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49
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Valdecantos PA, Bravo Miana RDC, García EV, García DC, Roldán-Olarte M, Miceli DC. Expression of bone morphogenetic protein receptors in bovine oviductal epithelial cells: Evidence of autocrine BMP signaling. Anim Reprod Sci 2017; 185:89-96. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2017.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2017] [Revised: 07/20/2017] [Accepted: 08/09/2017] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
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50
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Pavani KC, Alminana C, Wydooghe E, Catteeuw M, Ramírez MA, Mermillod P, Rizos D, Van Soom A. Emerging role of extracellular vesicles in communication of preimplantation embryos in vitro. Reprod Fertil Dev 2017; 29:66-83. [PMID: 28278795 DOI: 10.1071/rd16318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
In vitro, efficient communication between mammalian embryos in groups or between embryos and cocultured somatic cells implies that there is a sender, a message and a receiver that is able to decode the message. Embryos secrete a variety of autocrine and paracrine factors and, of these, extracellular vesicles have recently been implicated as putative messengers in embryo-embryo communication, as well as in communication of the embryo with the maternal tract. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are membrane-bound vesicles that are found in biofluids and in culture media conditioned by the presence of embryos or cells. EVs carry and transfer regulatory molecules, such as microRNAs, mRNAs, lipids and proteins. We conducted a systematic search of the literature to review and present the currently available evidence regarding the possible roles of EVs in in vitro embryo communication and embryo development. It is important to note that there is limited information available on the molecular mechanisms and many of the biologically plausible functions of EVs in embryo communication have not yet been substantiated by conclusive experimental evidence. However, indirect evidence, such as the use of media conditioned by embryos or by somatic cells with improved embryo development as a result, may indicate that EVs can be an important asset for the development of tailor-made media, allowing better embryo development in vitro, even for single embryo culture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krishna C Pavani
- Department of Reproduction, Obstetrics and Herd Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ghent, Salisburylaan 133, B-9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Carmen Alminana
- INRA, Reproductive Physiology and Behavior, UMR085, INRA, CNRS, Université de Tours, IFCE, 37380 Nouzilly, France
| | - Eline Wydooghe
- Department of Reproduction, Obstetrics and Herd Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ghent, Salisburylaan 133, B-9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Maaike Catteeuw
- Department of Reproduction, Obstetrics and Herd Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ghent, Salisburylaan 133, B-9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Miguel A Ramírez
- Departamento de Reproduccion Animal, Instituto Nacional de Investigacion y Tecnologia Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA), Madrid 28040, Spain
| | - Pascal Mermillod
- INRA, Reproductive Physiology and Behavior, UMR085, INRA, CNRS, Université de Tours, IFCE, 37380 Nouzilly, France
| | - Dimitrios Rizos
- Departamento de Reproduccion Animal, Instituto Nacional de Investigacion y Tecnologia Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA), Madrid 28040, Spain
| | - Ann Van Soom
- Department of Reproduction, Obstetrics and Herd Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ghent, Salisburylaan 133, B-9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
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