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Sistani MN, Zavareh S, Valojerdi MR, Salehnia M. Reconstruction of ovarian follicular-like structure by recellularization of a cell-free human ovarian scaffold with mouse fetal ovarian cells. Cytotechnology 2024; 76:27-38. [PMID: 38304626 PMCID: PMC10828258 DOI: 10.1007/s10616-023-00595-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
The present study assessed the supportive roles of the decellularized human ovarian tissue in homing of mouse fetal ovarian cells into the scaffold as well as the formation of the follicular-like structure. The human ovarian cortical tissues were decellularized by three freeze-thaw cycles and then, treated with Triton X-100 for 15 h and 0.5% sodium dodecyl sulfate for 72 h. After isolation and preparation of mouse fetal ovarian cells (19 dpc) they were seeded into the decellularized scaffolds and cultured for 7 days, then using a light microscope, laser confocal scanning microscope, and scanning electron microscope these scaffolds were studied. Analysis of gene expression related to oocyte and follicular cells such as Ddx4, Nobox, Gdf9, and Connexin37 was assessed by real-time RT-PCR and the DDX4 and GDF9 proteins were detected by immunohistochemistry. The result showed that the human ovarian tissue was decellularized properly and the tissue elements and integrity were well preserved. After 7 days of in vitro culture, the fetal ovarian cells attached and penetrated into different sites and depths of the scaffold. The formed organoid within the scaffold showed large round, small polyhedral, and elongated spindle cells similar to the follicle structure. The molecular analysis and immunohistochemistry were confirmed an increase in the expression of genes and proteins related to oocyte and follicular cells in these reconstructed structures. In conclusion, the recellularization of human ovarian scaffolds by mouse fetal ovarian cells could support the follicular-like structure formation and it provides an in vitro model for follicle reconstitution and offers an alternative approach for clinical usage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Nezhad Sistani
- Anatomy Department, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, 14115-111, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saeed Zavareh
- School of Biology, Damghan University, Damghan, Iran
| | | | - Mojdeh Salehnia
- Anatomy Department, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, 14115-111, Tehran, Iran
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2
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Chen YY, Chen S, Ok K, Duncan FE, O’Halloran TV, Woodruff TK. Zinc dynamics regulate early ovarian follicle development. J Biol Chem 2022; 299:102731. [PMID: 36423685 PMCID: PMC9800340 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2022.102731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 10/19/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Zinc fluctuations regulate key steps in late oocyte and preimplantation embryo development; however, roles for zinc in preceding stages in early ovarian follicle development, when cooperative interactions exist between the oocyte and somatic cells, are unknown. To understand the roles of zinc during early follicle development, we applied single cell X-ray fluorescence microscopy, a radioactive zinc tracer, and a labile zinc probe to measure zinc in individual mouse oocytes and associated somatic cells within early follicles. Here, we report a significant stage-specific increase and compartmental redistribution in oocyte zinc content upon the initiation of early follicle growth. The increase in zinc correlates with the increased expression of specific zinc transporters, including two that are essential in oocyte maturation. While oocytes in follicles exhibit high tolerance to pronounced changes in zinc availability, somatic survival and proliferation are significantly more sensitive to zinc chelation or supplementation. Finally, transcriptomic, proteomic, and zinc loading analyses reveal enrichment of zinc targets in the ubiquitination pathway. Overall, these results demonstrate that distinct cell type-specific zinc regulations are required for follicle growth and indicate that physiological fluctuation in the localization and availability of this inorganic cofactor has fundamental functions in early gamete development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Ying Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Si Chen
- X-ray Science Division, Argonne National Laboratory, Lemont, Illinois, USA
| | - Kiwon Ok
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - Francesca E. Duncan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Thomas V. O’Halloran
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA,Department of Chemistry, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA,Department of Chemistry, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, USA,The Chemistry of Life Processes Institute, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, USA,For correspondence: Thomas V. O’Halloran; Teresa K. Woodruff
| | - Teresa K. Woodruff
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA,For correspondence: Thomas V. O’Halloran; Teresa K. Woodruff
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3
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The programmed death of fetal oocytes and the correlated surveillance mechanisms. REPRODUCTIVE AND DEVELOPMENTAL MEDICINE 2022. [DOI: 10.1097/rd9.0000000000000016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
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4
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High steroid content in conditioned medium of granulosa cells may disrupt primordial follicles formation in in vitro cultured one-day-old murine ovaries. Reprod Biol 2022; 22:100613. [DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2022.100613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2021] [Revised: 01/09/2022] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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5
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Grive KJ. Pathways coordinating oocyte attrition and abundance during mammalian ovarian reserve establishment. Mol Reprod Dev 2020; 87:843-856. [PMID: 32720428 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2020] [Accepted: 07/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The mammalian ovarian reserve is comprised of a finite pool of primordial follicles, representing the lifetime reproductive capacity of females. In most mammals, the reserve is produced during embryonic and early postnatal development with oocyte numbers peaking during mid-to-late gestation, and then experiencing a dramatic decline continuing until shortly after birth. Oocytes remaining after the bulk of this attrition are subsequently surrounded by a layer of somatic pre-granulosa cells with these units then referred to as "primordial follicles." The complex and varied cell death mechanisms intrinsic to this process are not only characteristic of, but also essential for, the proper formation of this pool of follicles, and as a result must be immaculately balanced to ensure long-term fertility and reproductive health. Too few follicles can lead to Primary Ovarian Insufficiency, resulting in fertility loss and other features of aging, such as an overall shorter lifespan. On the other hand, whereas an excess of follicles might extend reproductive lifespan, this might also be the underlying etiology of other ovarian pathologies. The last decade, in particular, has vastly expanded our understanding of oocyte attrition and determinants of ovarian reserve abundance. By continuing to decipher the intricacies underlying the cell death processes and development of the initial primordial follicle pool, we may be in a much better position to understand idiopathic cases of premature follicle depletion and improve ovarian health in reproductive-age women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn J Grive
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Program in Women's Oncology, Women and Infants Hospital of Rhode Island, Providence, Rhode Island.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island
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6
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Luo Y, Zhang R, Gao J, Wang Y, Zhang W, Qing S. The localization and expression of epidermal growth factor and epidermal growth factor receptor in bovine ovary during oestrous cycle. Reprod Domest Anim 2020; 55:822-832. [PMID: 32330337 DOI: 10.1111/rda.13690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2020] [Accepted: 04/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Epidermal growth factor (EGF) is one of the important regulatory factors of EGF family. EGF has been indicated to effectively inhibit the apoptosis of follicular cells, to promote the proliferation of granulosa cells and the maturation of oocytes, and to induce ovulation process via binding to epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). However, little is known about the distribution and expression of EGF and EGFR in cattle ovary especially during oestrous cycle. In this study, the localization and expression rule of EGF and EGFR in cattle ovaries of follicular phase and luteal phase at different time points in oestrous cycle were investigated by using IHC and real-time qPCR. The results showed that EGF and EGFR in cattle ovary were mainly expressed in granulosa cells, cumulus cells, oocytes, zona pellucida, follicular fluid and theca folliculi externa of follicles. The protein and mRNA expression of EGF/EGFR in follicles changed regularly with the follicular growth wave both in follicular and in luteal phase ovaries. In follicular phase ovaries, the protein expression of EGF and EGFR was higher in antral follicles than that of those in other follicles during follicular growth stage, and the mRNA expression of EGFR was also increased in stage of dominant follicle selection. However, in luteal phase ovaries, the growth of follicles was impeded during corpus luteum development under the action of progesterone secreted by granular lutein cell. The mRNA and protein expressions of EGF and EGFR in ovarian follicles during oestrous cycle indicate that they play a role in promoting follicular development in follicular growth waves and mediating the selection process of dominant follicles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuru Luo
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China.,Beijing Shunxin Xinyuan Research Institute of Cattle Breeding, Beijing, China
| | - Ruiqi Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Jing Gao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Yali Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Weimin Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Suzhu Qing
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
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7
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Dietary calcium deficiency suppresses follicle selection in laying ducks through mechanism involving cyclic adenosine monophosphate-mediated signaling pathway. Animal 2020; 14:2100-2108. [PMID: 32367795 DOI: 10.1017/s1751731120000907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Ovarian follicle selection is a natural biological process in the pre-ovulatory hierarchy in birds that drives growing follicles to be selected within the ovulatory cycle. Follicle selection in birds is strictly regulated, involving signaling pathways mediated by dietary nutrients, gonadotrophic hormones and paracrine factors. This study aimed to test the hypothesis that dietary Ca may participate in regulating follicle selection in laying ducks through activating the signaling pathway of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP)/protein kinase A (PKA)/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), possibly mediated by gonadotrophic hormones. Female ducks at 22 weeks of age were initially fed one of two Ca-deficient diets (containing 1.8% or 0.38% Ca) or a Ca-adequate control diet (containing 3.6% Ca) for 67 days (depletion period), then all birds were fed the Ca-adequate diet for an additional 67 days (repletion period). Compared with the Ca-adequate control, ducks fed 0.38% Ca during the depletion period had significantly decreased (P < 0.05) numbers of hierarchical follicles and total ovarian weight, which were accompanied by reduced egg production. Plasma concentration of FSH was decreased by the diet containing 1.8% Ca but not by that containing 0.38%. The ovarian content of cAMP was increased with the two Ca-deficient diets, and phosphorylation of PKA and ERK1/2 was increased with 0.38% dietary Ca. Transcripts of ovarian estradiol receptor 2 and luteinizing hormone receptor (LHR) were reduced in the ducks fed the two Ca-deficient diets (P < 0.05), while those of the ovarian follicle stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR) were decreased in the ducks fed 0.38% Ca. The transcript abundance of ovary gap junction proteins, A1 and A4, was reduced with the Ca-deficient diets (P < 0.05). The down-regulation of gene expression of gap junction proteins and hormone receptors, the increased cAMP content and the suppressed hierarchical follicle numbers were reversed by repletion of dietary Ca. These results indicate that dietary Ca deficiency negatively affects follicle selection of laying ducks, independent of FSH, but probably by activating cAMP/PKA/ERK1/2 signaling pathway.
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8
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Thongphakdee A, Sukparangsi W, Comizzoli P, Chatdarong K. Reproductive biology and biotechnologies in wild felids. Theriogenology 2020; 150:360-373. [PMID: 32102745 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2020] [Accepted: 02/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Conservation strategies in natural habitats as well as in breeding centers are necessary for maintaining and reinforcing viable populations of wild felids. Among the fundamental knowledge that is required for conservation breeding, a solid understanding of reproductive biology is critical for improving natural breeding and enhance genetic diversity. Additionally, it offers the opportunity to develop assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) in threatened and endangered species. Conservation breeding and reproductive biotechnologies of wild felids have advanced in the past decade. It has been clearly shown that female felids have species and individual patterns of reproductive cycles and respond differently to exogenous hormones. In males, several species still have poor semen quality often due to the loss of genetic diversity in small populations. To overcome the challenges of natural breeding (incompatibility between individuals or suboptimal environment) and mitigate inbreeding, artificial insemination, embryo production and embryo transfer have been further developed in 24 wild cat species. Major factors limiting ART success are inconsistent responses to ovarian stimulation, variable quality of gametes and embryos, and preparation of recipient females. Additional approaches including stem cell technologies have been explored for future medical applications. However, there still is a critical need for better knowledge of feline reproductive biology and improvement of ARTs efficiency to increase the genetic diversity and create sustainable populations of wild felids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ampika Thongphakdee
- Wildlife Reproductive Innovation Center, Bureau of Conservation and Research, Zoological Park Organization Under the Royal Patronage of H.M. the King, 267, Pracharaj 1 Road, Bang Sue, Bangkok, 10800, Thailand.
| | - Woranop Sukparangsi
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Burapha University, Saen Suk, Muang, Chonburi, 20131, Thailand
| | - Pierre Comizzoli
- Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, 3001 Connecticut Ave, NW, Washington, DC, 2008, USA
| | - Kaywalee Chatdarong
- Research Unit of Obstetrics and Reproduction in Animals, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Henri-Dunant Road, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
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9
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Jiao Y, Gao B, Wang G, Li H, Ahmed JZ, Zhang D, Ye S, Liu S, Li M, Shi D, Huang B. The key long non-coding RNA screening and validation between germinal vesicle and metaphase II of porcine oocyte in vitro maturation. Reprod Domest Anim 2020; 55:351-363. [PMID: 31903647 DOI: 10.1111/rda.13620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2019] [Accepted: 12/30/2019] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Oocyte maturation plays a vitally important role in the reproduction of pigs. However, the roles of messenger RNAs (mRNAs) and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in the developmental process of porcine oocyte maturation are still largely unclear. In this study, a transcriptome analysis of germinal vesicle (GV) and metaphase II (MII) of oocytes from Chinese Duroc pigs was performed. A total of 1,753,030 and 2,486 differentially expressed (DE) mRNAs, 22,811 and 9,868 DE lncRNAs were identified between GV and MII stages, respectively. Furthermore, functional enrichment analysis showed that the common DE mRNAs and DE lncRNAs during the process of maturation were mainly involved in biological process and cellular components. Our study provides new insights of the expression changes of mRNAs and lncRNAs during GV and MII stages, which might contribute to the maturation of oocytes. These results greatly improve our understanding of the molecular mechanisms regulating the maturation of oocytes in pigs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yafei Jiao
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, China.,School of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Bangjun Gao
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, China.,School of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Guodong Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, China.,School of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Hui Li
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, China.,School of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Jam Z Ahmed
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, China.,School of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Dandan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, China.,School of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Sheng Ye
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, China.,School of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Shulin Liu
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, China.,School of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Mengmei Li
- School of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Deshun Shi
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, China.,School of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Ben Huang
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, China.,School of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
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10
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Xu J, Huang J, Pan Q, Du M, Li Z, Dong H. Gestational diabetes promotes germ cell cCyst breakdown and primordial follicle formation in newborn mice via the AKT signaling pathway. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0215007. [PMID: 30973884 PMCID: PMC6459533 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0215007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2018] [Accepted: 03/25/2019] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is a common disease in which pancreatic β cells are impaired due to auto-immunity, pregnancy in women with it is associated with increased risk of neonatal morbidity, mortality. However, the effects of gestational diabetes on the reproduction of newborn offspring are still poorly understood. Here, we determined the cyst breakdown and primordial follicle formation in neonatal offspring born by streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic or non-diabetic female mice, and found that the germ cell cyst breakdown was promoted in neonatal offspring of STZ -induced diabetic mice at postnatal Day 1, which sequentially accelerated the primordial follicle formation. Further investigation revealed that, the expression level of PI3K and p-AKT were significantly increased in ovaries of offspring born by T1D mice. These results indicated that STZ -induced gestational diabetes promotes germ cell cyst breakdown and primordial follicle formation by regulating the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway in the newborn offspring. In addition, this effect can be rescued by an insulin supplement. Taken together, our results uncover the intergenerational effects of gestational diabetes on neonatal offspring folliculogenesis, and provide an experimental model for treating gestational diabetes and its complications in neonatal offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junjun Xu
- Department of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
| | - Jiaojiao Huang
- Department of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
| | - Qingjie Pan
- Department of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
| | - Miao Du
- Department of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
| | - Zhen Li
- Department of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
| | - Huansheng Dong
- Department of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
- * E-mail:
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11
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Yan H, Wen J, Zhang T, Zheng W, He M, Huang K, Guo Q, Chen Q, Yang Y, Deng G, Xu J, Wei Z, Zhang H, Xia G, Wang C. Oocyte-derived E-cadherin acts as a multiple functional factor maintaining the primordial follicle pool in mice. Cell Death Dis 2019; 10:160. [PMID: 30770786 PMCID: PMC6377673 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-018-1208-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2018] [Revised: 10/31/2018] [Accepted: 11/05/2018] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
In mammals, female fecundity is determined by the size of the primordial follicle (PF) pool, which is established during the perinatal period. As a non-renewable resource, the preservation of dormant PFs is crucial for sustaining female reproduction throughout life. Although studies have revealed that several oocyte-derived functional genes and pathways, such as newborn ovary homeobox (NOBOX) and 3-phosphoinositide-dependent protein kinase-1, participate in maintaining the PF pool, our understanding of the underlying molecular mechanisms is still incomplete. Here, we demonstrate that E-cadherin (E-cad) plays a crucial role in the maintenance of PFs in mice. E-cad is specifically localized to the cytomembrane of oocytes in PFs. Knockdown of E-cad in neonatal ovaries resulted in significant PF loss owing to oocyte apoptosis. In addition, the expression pattern of NOBOX is similar to that of E-cad. Knockdown of E-cad resulted in a decreased NOBOX level, whereas overexpression of Nobox partially rescued the follicle loss induced by silencing E-cad. Furthermore, E-cad governed NOBOX expression by regulating the shuttle protein, β-catenin, which acts as a transcriptional co-activator. Notably, E-cad, which is a transmembrane protein expressed in the oocytes, was also responsible for maintaining the PF structure by facilitating cell–cell adhesive contacts with surrounding pregranulosa cells. In conclusion, E-cad in oocytes of PFs plays an indispensable role in the maintenance of the PF pool by facilitating follicular structural stability and regulating NOBOX expression. These findings shed light on the physiology of sustaining female reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Yan
- Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education for Conservation and Utilization of Special Biological Resources in the Western China, College of Life Science, NingXia University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, 750021, China.,State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Science, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Jia Wen
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Science, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Tuo Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Science, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Wenying Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Science, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Meina He
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Science, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Kun Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Science, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Qirui Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Science, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Qian Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Science, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Yi Yang
- Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education for Conservation and Utilization of Special Biological Resources in the Western China, College of Life Science, NingXia University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, 750021, China
| | - Guangcun Deng
- Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education for Conservation and Utilization of Special Biological Resources in the Western China, College of Life Science, NingXia University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, 750021, China
| | - Jinrui Xu
- Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education for Conservation and Utilization of Special Biological Resources in the Western China, College of Life Science, NingXia University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, 750021, China
| | - Zhiqing Wei
- Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education for Conservation and Utilization of Special Biological Resources in the Western China, College of Life Science, NingXia University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, 750021, China
| | - Hua Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Science, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China.
| | - Guoliang Xia
- Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education for Conservation and Utilization of Special Biological Resources in the Western China, College of Life Science, NingXia University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, 750021, China. .,State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Science, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China.
| | - Chao Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Science, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China.
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12
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Cai H, Liu B, Yang T, Yang Y, Xu J, Wei Z, Deng G, Ning G, Li J, Wen J, Liu W, Ni Z, Ma Y, Zhang M, Zhou B, Xia G, Ouyang H, Wang C. Involvement of PKCε in FSH-induced connexin43 phosphorylation and oocyte maturation in mouse. Biol Open 2018; 7:bio.034678. [PMID: 30061305 PMCID: PMC6124567 DOI: 10.1242/bio.034678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Gap junctions (GJs) are indispensable for communication between cumulus cells (CCs) and oocytes in coordinating the gonadotropin-induced meiotic maturation of oocytes. Of all proteins that constitute GJs, phosphorylated connexin43 (pCx43) is vital for mediating the actions of gonadotropins. In this study, the mechanism of Cx43 phosphorylation in response to follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) stimulation was examined using an in vitro model of mouse cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs). The results confirmed that Cx43 phosphorylation occurred twice during FSH treatment. Importantly, the second Cx43 phosphorylation was closely related to cAMP level reduction within oocytes, which initiated oocyte maturation. Exploration of the underlying mechanism revealed that the CC-specific protein kinase C ε (PKCε) level was upregulated by FSH stimulation. PKCε was a kinase downstream from mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and was responsible for Cx43 phosphorylation. Interestingly, MAPK was involved in both Cx43 phosphorylation processes, while PKCε was only involved in the second. In conclusion, PKCε-mediated MAPK signals might contribute to Cx43 phosphorylation in CCs during FSH-induced oocyte meiotic resumption. Our findings contribute to a better understanding of the molecular regulation mechanism of oocyte maturation in response to FSH in vitro. Summary: This research clarifies the important role of PKCε in mediating MAPK action on CX43 phosphorylation during FSH-induced oocyte maturation in vitro, and further explores the regulation mechanism of oocyte maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han Cai
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology and Department of Animal Physiology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Bingying Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology and Department of Animal Physiology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Tingting Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology and Department of Animal Physiology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Yi Yang
- Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education for Conservation and Utilization of Special Biological Resources in the Western China, College of Life Science, Ningxia University, Yinchuan, Ningxia 750021, China
| | - Jinrui Xu
- Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education for Conservation and Utilization of Special Biological Resources in the Western China, College of Life Science, Ningxia University, Yinchuan, Ningxia 750021, China
| | - Zhiqing Wei
- Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education for Conservation and Utilization of Special Biological Resources in the Western China, College of Life Science, Ningxia University, Yinchuan, Ningxia 750021, China
| | - Guangcun Deng
- Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education for Conservation and Utilization of Special Biological Resources in the Western China, College of Life Science, Ningxia University, Yinchuan, Ningxia 750021, China
| | - Gang Ning
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology and Department of Animal Physiology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Junxia Li
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology and Department of Animal Physiology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Jing Wen
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology and Department of Animal Physiology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Wei Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology and Department of Animal Physiology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Zhangli Ni
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology and Department of Animal Physiology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Yuzhen Ma
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center of Reproductive Medicine, Inner Mongolia People's Hospital, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia 010017, China
| | - Meijia Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology and Department of Animal Physiology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Bo Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology and Department of Animal Physiology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Guoliang Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology and Department of Animal Physiology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China.,Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education for Conservation and Utilization of Special Biological Resources in the Western China, College of Life Science, Ningxia University, Yinchuan, Ningxia 750021, China
| | - Hong Ouyang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Chao Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology and Department of Animal Physiology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
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Wang C, Zhou B, Xia G. Mechanisms controlling germline cyst breakdown and primordial follicle formation. Cell Mol Life Sci 2017; 74:2547-2566. [PMID: 28197668 PMCID: PMC11107689 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-017-2480-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2016] [Revised: 01/20/2017] [Accepted: 01/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
In fetal females, oogonia proliferate immediately after sex determination. The progress of mitosis in oogonia proceeds so rapidly that the incompletely divided cytoplasm of the sister cells forms cysts. The oogonia will then initiate meiosis and arrest at the diplotene stage of meiosis I, becoming oocytes. Within each germline cyst, oocytes with Balbiani bodies will survive after cyst breakdown (CBD). After CBD, each oocyte is enclosed by pre-granulosa cells to form a primordial follicle (PF). Notably, the PF pool formed perinatally will be the sole lifelong oocyte source of a female. Thus, elucidating the mechanisms of CBD and PF formation is not only meaningful for solving mysteries related to ovarian development but also contributes to the preservation of reproduction. However, the mechanisms that regulate these phenomena are largely unknown. This review summarizes the progress of cellular and molecular research on these processes in mice and humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Agro-Biotechnology, College of Biological Science, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Bo Zhou
- State Key Laboratory for Agro-Biotechnology, College of Biological Science, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Guoliang Xia
- State Key Laboratory for Agro-Biotechnology, College of Biological Science, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China.
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14
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Vanorny DA, Mayo KE. The role of Notch signaling in the mammalian ovary. Reproduction 2017; 153:R187-R204. [PMID: 28283672 DOI: 10.1530/rep-16-0689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2016] [Revised: 03/03/2017] [Accepted: 03/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The Notch pathway is a contact-dependent, or juxtacrine, signaling system that is conserved in metazoan organisms and is important in many developmental processes. Recent investigations have demonstrated that the Notch pathway is active in both the embryonic and postnatal ovary and plays important roles in events including follicle assembly and growth, meiotic maturation, ovarian vasculogenesis and steroid hormone production. In mice, disruption of the Notch pathway results in ovarian pathologies affecting meiotic spindle assembly, follicle histogenesis, granulosa cell proliferation and survival, corpora luteal function and ovarian neovascularization. These aberrations result in abnormal folliculogenesis and reduced fertility. The knowledge of the cellular interactions facilitated by the Notch pathway is an important area for continuing research, and future studies are expected to enhance our understanding of ovarian function and provide critical insights for improving reproductive health. This review focuses on the expression of Notch pathway components in the ovary, and on the multiple functions of Notch signaling in follicle assembly, maturation and development. We focus on the mouse, where genetic investigations are possible, and relate this information to the human ovary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dallas A Vanorny
- Department of Molecular Biosciences and Center for Reproductive ScienceNorthwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, USA
| | - Kelly E Mayo
- Department of Molecular Biosciences and Center for Reproductive ScienceNorthwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, USA
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15
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Single-cell analysis of differences in transcriptomic profiles of oocytes and cumulus cells at GV, MI, MII stages from PCOS patients. Sci Rep 2016; 6:39638. [PMID: 28004769 PMCID: PMC5177934 DOI: 10.1038/srep39638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2016] [Accepted: 11/24/2016] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common frequent endocrine disorder among women of reproductive age. Although assisted reproductive techniques (ARTs) are used to address subfertility in PCOS women, their effectiveness is not clear. Our aim was to compare transcriptomic profiles of oocytes and cumulus cells (CCs) between women with and without PCOS, and assess the effectiveness of ARTs in treating PCOS patients. We collected oocytes and CCs from 16 patients with and without PCOS patients to categorize them into 6 groups according to oocyte nuclear maturation. Transcriptional gene expression of oocyte and CCs was determined via single-cell RNA sequencing. The ratio of fertilization and cleavage was higher in PCOS patients than in non-PCOS patients undergoing ARTs, and there was no difference in the number of high-quality embryos between the groups. Differentially expressed genes including PPP2R1A, PDGFRA, EGFR, GJA1, PTGS2, TNFAIP6, TGF-β1, CAV1, INHBB et al. were investigated as potential causes of PCOS oocytes and CCs disorder at early stages, but their expression returned to the normal level at the metaphase II (MII) stage via ARTs. In conclusion, ARTs can improve the quality of cumulus-oocyte complex (COC) and increase the ratio of fertilization and cleavage in PCOS women.
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Green LJ, Shikanov A. In vitro culture methods of preantral follicles. Theriogenology 2016; 86:229-38. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2016.04.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2015] [Revised: 02/25/2016] [Accepted: 03/14/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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