1
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Bernstein LR, Mackenzie ACL, Chaffin CL, Lee SJ, Kraemer DC, Merchenthaler I. Gonadotropin elevation is ootoxic to ovulatory oocytes and inhibits oocyte maturation, and activin decoy receptor ActRIIB:Fc therapeutically restores maturation. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2024; 22:52. [PMID: 38711160 PMCID: PMC11071334 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-024-01224-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Elevated FSH often occurs in women of advanced maternal age (AMA, age ≥ 35) and in infertility patients undergoing controlled ovarian stimulation (COS). There is controversy on whether high endogenous FSH contributes to infertility and whether high exogenous FSH adversely impacts patient pregnancy rates. METHODS The senescence-accelerated mouse-prone-8 (SAMP8) model of female reproductive aging was employed to assess the separate impacts of age and high FSH activity on the percentages (%) of viable and mature ovulated oocytes recovered after gonadotropin treatment. Young and midlife mice were treated with the FSH analog equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG) to model both endogenous FSH elevation and exogenous FSH elevation. Previously we showed the activin inhibitor ActRIIB:Fc increases oocyte quality by preventing chromosome and spindle misalignments. Therefore, ActRIIB:Fc treatment was performed in an effort to increase % oocyte viability and % oocyte maturation. RESULTS The high FSH activity of eCG is ootoxic to ovulatory oocytes, with greater decreases in % viable oocytes in midlife than young mice. High FSH activity of eCG potently inhibits oocyte maturation, decreasing the % of mature oocytes to similar degrees in young and midlife mice. ActRIIB:Fc treatment does not prevent eCG ootoxicity, but it restores most oocyte maturation impeded by eCG. CONCLUSIONS FSH ootoxicity to ovulatory oocytes and FSH maturation inhibition pose a paradox given the well-known pro-growth and pro-maturation activities of FSH in the earlier stages of oocyte growth. We propose the FOOT Hypothesis ("FSH OoToxicity Hypothesis), that FSH ootoxicity to ovulatory oocytes comprises a new driver of infertility and low pregnancy success rates in DOR women attempting spontaneous pregnancy and in COS/IUI patients, especially AMA women. We speculate that endogenous FSH elevation also contributes to reduced fecundity in these DOR and COS/IUI patients. Restoration of oocyte maturation by ActRIB:Fc suggests that activin suppresses oocyte maturation in vivo. This contrasts with prior studies showing activin A promotes oocyte maturation in vitro. Improved oocyte maturation with agents that decrease endogenous activin activity with high specificity may have therapeutic benefit for COS/IVF patients, COS/IUI patients, and DOR patients attempting spontaneous pregnancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lori R Bernstein
- Pregmama, LLC, Gaithersburg, MD, 20886, USA.
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, Texas A & M School of Medicine, College Station, TX, 77843, USA.
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA.
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, Texas A&M School of Veterinary Medicine, College Station, TX, 77843, USA.
| | - Amelia C L Mackenzie
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, Texas A & M School of Medicine, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
- FHI 360, Durham, NC, 27701, USA
| | - Charles L Chaffin
- Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
| | - Se-Jin Lee
- University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT, 06030, USA
- The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine, Farmington, CT, 06030, USA
| | - Duane C Kraemer
- Department of Veterinary Physiology and Pharmacology, Texas A & M School of Veterinary Medicine, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Istvan Merchenthaler
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
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2
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Song W, Qiu YT, Li XZ, Sun QY, Chen LN. 4-vinylcyclohexene diepoxide induces apoptosis by excessive reactive oxygen species and DNA damage in human ovarian granulosa cells. Toxicol In Vitro 2023; 91:105613. [PMID: 37182589 DOI: 10.1016/j.tiv.2023.105613] [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: 12/28/2022] [Revised: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
4-Vinylcyclohexene diepoxide (VCD) is a hazardous industrial material which is widely used in the production of fragrances, rubber tires, antioxidants, pesticides, flame retardants and plasticizers. Previous studies have shown that exposure to VCD damages the female reproductive system, but the effects and mechanisms of VCD exposure on human granulosa cells are not reported. In this study, we used a human granulosa cell line (SVOG) to explore the effects of VCD exposure and found that VCD exposure had toxic effects on SVOG cells in vitro. VCD exposure led to excessive accumulation of intracellular ROS, caused DNA damage in cells, altered the expression of some key genes related with apoptosis and oxidative stress, and ultimately inhibited the proliferative capacity of granulosa cells, resulting in increased apoptosis. Overall, our findings provide solid evidence showing that VCD exposure produces severe damage to human granulosa cells, which is helpful for understanding the reproductive toxicity of VCD and etiology of infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Song
- College of Life Sciences, Institute of Reproductive Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, China; Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Metabolic Diseases and Reproductive Health, Guangdong-Hong Kong Metabolism & Reproduction Joint Laboratory, Reproductive Medicine Center, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou 510317, China
| | - Yu-Ting Qiu
- College of Life Sciences, Institute of Reproductive Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, China
| | - Xiao-Zhen Li
- College of Life Sciences, Institute of Reproductive Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, China; Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Metabolic Diseases and Reproductive Health, Guangdong-Hong Kong Metabolism & Reproduction Joint Laboratory, Reproductive Medicine Center, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou 510317, China
| | - Qing-Yuan Sun
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Metabolic Diseases and Reproductive Health, Guangdong-Hong Kong Metabolism & Reproduction Joint Laboratory, Reproductive Medicine Center, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou 510317, China
| | - Lei-Ning Chen
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Metabolic Diseases and Reproductive Health, Guangdong-Hong Kong Metabolism & Reproduction Joint Laboratory, Reproductive Medicine Center, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou 510317, China.
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3
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Koike H, Harada M, Kusamoto A, Xu Z, Tanaka T, Sakaguchi N, Kunitomi C, Azhary JMK, Takahashi N, Urata Y, Osuga Y. Roles of endoplasmic reticulum stress in the pathophysiology of polycystic ovary syndrome. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1124405. [PMID: 36875481 PMCID: PMC9975510 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1124405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrine disorder among reproductive-age women, affecting up to 15% of women in this group, and the most common cause of anovulatory infertility. Although its etiology remains unclear, recent research has revealed the critical role of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress in the pathophysiology of PCOS. ER stress is defined as a condition in which unfolded or misfolded proteins accumulate in the ER because of an imbalance in the demand for protein folding and the protein-folding capacity of the ER. ER stress results in the activation of several signal transduction cascades, collectively termed the unfolded protein response (UPR), which regulates various cellular activities. In principle, the UPR restores homeostasis and keeps the cell alive. However, if the ER stress cannot be resolved, it induces programmed cell death. ER stress has recently been recognized to play diverse roles in both physiological and pathological conditions of the ovary. In this review, we summarize current knowledge of the roles of ER stress in the pathogenesis of PCOS. ER stress pathways are activated in the ovaries of both a mouse model of PCOS and in humans, and local hyperandrogenism in the follicular microenvironment associated with PCOS is responsible for activating these. The activation of ER stress contributes to the pathophysiology of PCOS through multiple effects in granulosa cells. Finally, we discuss the potential for ER stress to serve as a novel therapeutic target for PCOS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Koike
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Miyuki Harada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
- *Correspondence: Miyuki Harada,
| | - Akari Kusamoto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Zixin Xu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tsurugi Tanaka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Nanoka Sakaguchi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Chisato Kunitomi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Jerilee M. K. Azhary
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Nozomi Takahashi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoko Urata
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yutaka Osuga
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
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4
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Tian S, Zhang H, Chang HM, Klausen C, Huang HF, Jin M, Leung PCK. Activin a promotes hyaluronan production and upregulates versican expression in human granulosa cells via the ALK4-SMAD2/3-SMAD4 signaling pathway. Biol Reprod 2022; 107:458-473. [PMID: 35403677 PMCID: PMC9382401 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac070] [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: 04/26/2021] [Revised: 12/11/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Hyaluronan is a structural component of the expanded cumulus matrix, and hyaluronan synthase 2 (HAS2) is the major enzyme for the synthesis of hyaluronan in humans. Versican cross-links the hyaluronan-rich matrix to cumulus cells and is critical for successful ovulation. Activin A is a critical intrafollicular regulator of ovarian function. Although activin A has been shown to promote cumulus matrix expansion in mice, the functional role of activin A in the regulation of cumulus expansion in the human ovary remains to be elucidated. Using primary and immortalized human granulosa-lutein (hGL) cells as study models, we provide the first data showing that activin A increased the production of hyaluronan by upregulating the expression of HAS2 in these cells. Additionally, activin A also promoted the expression of the hyaluronan-binding protein versican. Moreover, using inhibitor- and siRNA-mediated inhibition approaches, we found that these stimulatory effects of activin A are most likely mediated through the type I receptor ALK4-mediated SMAD2/SMAD3-SMAD4 signaling pathway. Notably, the ChIP analyses demonstrated that SMAD4 could bind to human HAS2 and VERSICAN promoters. The results obtained from this in vitro study suggest that locally produced activin A plays a functional role in the regulation of hyaluronan production and stabilization in hGL cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shen Tian
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Han Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Center for Reproductive Medicine, Center for Prenatal Diagnosis, First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Hsun-Ming Chang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Christian Klausen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - He-Feng Huang
- The Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics, Ministry of Education (Zhejiang University), Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Min Jin
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Peter C K Leung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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5
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Wang C, Zhang Y. Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress: A New Research Direction for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome? DNA Cell Biol 2022; 41:356-367. [PMID: 35353637 DOI: 10.1089/dna.2021.1050] [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: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common gynecological endocrine disorders, with sporadic ovulation, excessive androgens, and polycystic ovarian changes as the main clinical manifestations. Due to the high heterogeneity of its clinical manifestations, the discussion on its pathogenesis has not been unified. Current research has found that genetic factors, hyperandrogenism, chronic inflammation and oxidative stress, insulin resistance, and obesity are strongly associated with PCOS. Recently, when studying the specific mechanisms of the abovementioned factors in PCOS, the biological response process of endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) has gradually come to researchers' attention, and several studies have confirmed the involvement of ERS in the pathogenesis of PCOS and the improvement of a series of pathological manifestations of PCOS after the application of ERS inhibitors, which may be a new entry point for the treatment of PCOS. In this article, we review the relationship between ERS and various pathogenic factors of PCOS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chengzhe Wang
- Department of Gynecology of traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan City, China
| | - Yingjie Zhang
- Department of Gynecology of traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan City, China
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6
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Zheng X, Zheng Y, Qin D, Yao Y, Zhang X, Zhao Y, Zheng C. Regulatory Role and Potential Importance of GDF-8 in Ovarian Reproductive Activity. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:878069. [PMID: 35692411 PMCID: PMC9178251 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.878069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 04/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Growth differentiation factor-8 (GDF-8) is a member of the transforming growth factor-beta superfamily. Studies in vitro and in vivo have shown GDF-8 to be involved in the physiology and pathology of ovarian reproductive functions. In vitro experiments using a granulosa-cell model have demonstrated steroidogenesis, gonadotrophin responsiveness, glucose metabolism, cell proliferation as well as expression of lysyl oxidase and pentraxin 3 to be regulated by GDF-8 via the mothers against decapentaplegic homolog signaling pathway. Clinical data have shown that GDF-8 is expressed widely in the human ovary and has high expression in serum of obese women with polycystic ovary syndrome. GDF-8 expression in serum changes dynamically in patients undergoing controlled ovarian hyperstimulation. GDF-8 expression in serum and follicular fluid is correlated with the ovarian response and pregnancy outcome during in vitro fertilization. Blocking the GDF-8 signaling pathway is a potential therapeutic for ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome and ovulation disorders in polycystic ovary syndrome. GDF-8 has a regulatory role and potential importance in ovarian reproductive activity and may be involved in folliculogenesis, ovulation, and early embryo implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoling Zheng
- Department of Pharmacy, Women’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yongquan Zheng
- Department of Pharmacy, Women’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Dongxu Qin
- Department of Pharmacy, Women’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yao Yao
- Department of Pharmacy, Women’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiao Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, Women’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yunchun Zhao
- Department of Pharmacy, Women’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Caihong Zheng, ; Yunchun Zhao,
| | - Caihong Zheng
- Department of Pharmacy, Women’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Ministry of Education) and Women’s Reproductive Health Laboratory of Zhejiang Province, Women’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Caihong Zheng, ; Yunchun Zhao,
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7
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Zhang XY, Chang HM, Yi Y, Zhu H, Liu RZ, Leung PCK. BMP6 increases CD68 expression by up-regulating CTGF expression in human granulosa-lutein cells. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2021; 536:111414. [PMID: 34314740 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2021.111414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2021] [Revised: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Bone morphogenetic protein 6 (BMP6) and connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) are critical growth factors required for normal follicular development and luteal function. Cluster of Differentiation 68 (CD68) is an intraovarian marker of macrophages that plays an important role in modulating the physiological regression of the corpus luteum. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of BMP6 on the expression of CTGF and the subsequent increase in CD68 expression as well as its underlying mechanisms. Primary and immortalized (SVOG) human granulosa cells obtained from infertile women undergoing in vitro fertilization treatment were used as cell models to conduct the in vitro experiments. Our results showed that BMP6 treatment significantly increased the expression levels of CTGF and CD68. Using BMP type I receptor inhibitors (dorsomorphin, DMH-1 and SB431542), we demonstrated that both activin receptor-like kinase (ALK)2 and ALK3 are involved in BMP6-induced stimulatory effects on the expression of CTGF and CD68. Additionally, SMAD4-knock down reversed the BMP6-induced up-regulation of CTGF and CD68, indicating that the canonical SMAD signaling pathway is required for these effects. Moreover, CTGF-knock down abolished the BMP6-induced up-regulation of CD68 expression. These findings indicate that intrafollicular CTGF mediates BMP6-induced increases in CD68 expression through the ALK2/ALK3-mediated SMAD-dependent signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin-Yue Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, V5Z 4H4, Canada
| | - Hsun-Ming Chang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, V5Z 4H4, Canada
| | - Yuyin Yi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, V5Z 4H4, Canada
| | - Hua Zhu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, V5Z 4H4, Canada
| | - Rui-Zhi Liu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China.
| | - Peter C K Leung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, V5Z 4H4, Canada.
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8
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Liu S, Chang HM, Yi Y, Yao YQ, Leung PCK. SMAD-dependent signaling mediates morphogenetic protein 6-induced stimulation of connective tissue growth factor in luteinized human granulosa cells†. Biol Reprod 2020; 101:445-456. [PMID: 31210269 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioz108] [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: 02/01/2019] [Revised: 06/01/2019] [Accepted: 06/14/2019] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Connective tissue growth factor (also known as CTGF or CCN2) is a secreted matricellular protein that belongs to the CCN family. With wide-ranging biological activities and tissue expression patterns, CTGF plays a critical role in regulating various cellular functions. In the female reproductive system, CTGF is highly expressed in granulosa cells in growing ovarian follicles and is involved in the regulation of follicular development, ovulation, and luteal function. In the mammalian ovary, bone morphogenetic protein 6 (BMP6) is an important intraovarian modulator of follicular development. In this study, we demonstrated that BMP6 treatment significantly increased the expression of CTGF in both primary and immortalized human granulosa cells. Using both pharmacological inhibitors and Small interfering RNA-mediated knockdown approaches, we showed that ALK2 and ALK3 type I receptors are required for BMP6-induced cellular activities. Furthermore, this effect is most likely mediated by a Sma- and Mad-related protein (SMAD)-dependent pathway. Our studies provide novel insight into the molecular mechanisms by which an intraovarian growth factor affects the production of another factor via a paracrine effect in human granulosa cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuang Liu
- Reproductive Medicine Centre, Air Force General Hospital, Beijing, China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Hsun-Ming Chang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Yuyin Yi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Yuan-Qing Yao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, General Hospital of Chinese People's Liberation Army, Beijing, China
| | - Peter C K Leung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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9
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Appiah Adu-Gyamfi E, Tanam Djankpa F, Nelson W, Czika A, Kumar Sah S, Lamptey J, Ding YB, Wang YX. Activin and inhibin signaling: From regulation of physiology to involvement in the pathology of the female reproductive system. Cytokine 2020; 133:155105. [PMID: 32438278 DOI: 10.1016/j.cyto.2020.155105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2020] [Accepted: 04/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Activins and inhibins - comprising activin A, B, AB, C and E, and inhibin A and B isoforms - belong to the transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ) superfamily. They regulate several biological processes, including cellular proliferation, differentiation and invasiveness, to enhance the formation and functioning of many human tissues and organs. In this review, we have discussed the role of activin and inhibin signaling in the physiological and female-specific pathological events that occur in the female reproductive system. The up-to-date evidence indicates that these cytokines regulate germ cell development, follicular development, ovulation, uterine receptivity, decidualization and placentation through the activation of several signaling pathways; and that their dysregulated expression is involved in the pathogenesis and pathophysiology of the numerous diseases, including pregnancy complications, that disturb reproduction. Hence, some of the isoforms have been suggested as potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets for the management of some of these diseases. Tackling the research directions highlighted in this review will enhance a detailed comprehension and the clinical utility of these cytokines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enoch Appiah Adu-Gyamfi
- Department of Reproductive Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China.
| | - Francis Tanam Djankpa
- Department of Physiology, School of Medical Sciences, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana.
| | - William Nelson
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China; Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, School of Public Health and Social Sciences, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es salaam, Tanzania.
| | - Armin Czika
- Department of Reproductive Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China.
| | - Sanjay Kumar Sah
- Department of Reproductive Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China.
| | - Jones Lamptey
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China; Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research in Tropical Medicine, KCCR, Ghana.
| | - Yu-Bin Ding
- Department of Reproductive Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China.
| | - Ying-Xiong Wang
- Department of Reproductive Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China.
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10
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Chen B, Chang HM, Zhang Z, Cao Y, Leung PCK. ALK4-SMAD3/4 mediates the effects of activin A on the upregulation of PAI-1 in human granulosa lutein cells. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2020; 505:110731. [PMID: 31982478 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2020.110731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2019] [Revised: 01/03/2020] [Accepted: 01/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
In the mammalian ovary, the proteolysis of the extracellular matrix is dynamically regulated by plasminogen activator and plasminogen activator inhibitor (PAI), and it is a critical event that influences various physiological and pathological processes. Activin A is a member of the transforming growth factor-β superfamily and is expressed at a high level in human luteal cells that play an essential role in the regulation of the luteal function. At present, it is not known whether activin A can regulate the expression and production of PAI in human granulosa lutein (hGL) cells. The present study aimed to examine the effects of activin A on the expression and production of intraovarian PAI-1 and the underlying molecular mechanisms. Using primary and immortalized hGL cells as the cell model, we demonstrated that activin A upregulated the expression of PAI-1 and increased the production of PAI-1 in an autocrine/paracrine manner. Additionally, using a dual inhibition approach (molecular inhibitors and siRNA-mediated knockdown), we showed that this biological function is mediated by the ALK4-mediated SMAD3-SMAD4-dependent signaling pathway. Our findings suggest that activin A may be involved in the regulation of luteal function via the induction of PAI-1 expression and an increase in PAI-1 production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beili Chen
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No 218 Jixi Road, Hefei, 230022, Anhui, China; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Hsun-Ming Chang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Zhiguo Zhang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No 218 Jixi Road, Hefei, 230022, Anhui, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract (Anhui Medical University), No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China; Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Yunxia Cao
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No 218 Jixi Road, Hefei, 230022, Anhui, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract (Anhui Medical University), No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China; Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China.
| | - Peter C K Leung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
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Hu LL, Chang HM, Yi Y, Liu Y, Taylor EL, Zheng LP, Leung PC. CCN2 Mediates S1P-Induced Upregulation of COX2 Expression in Human Granulosa-Lutein Cells. Cells 2019; 8:cells8111445. [PMID: 31731760 PMCID: PMC6912539 DOI: 10.3390/cells8111445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2019] [Revised: 11/11/2019] [Accepted: 11/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
CCN1 and CCN2 are members of the CCN family and play essential roles in the regulation of multiple female reproductive functions, including ovulation. Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX2) is a critical mediator of ovulation and can be induced by sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) through the S1P1/3-mediated Yes-associated protein (YAP) signaling. However, it is unclear whether CCN1 or CCN2 can mediate S1P-induced upregulation of COX2 expression and increase in prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) production in human granulosa-lutein (hGL) cells. In the present study, we investigated the effects of S1P on the expressions of CCN1 and CCN2 in hGL cells. Additionally, we used a dual inhibition approach (siRNA-mediated silencing and small molecular inhibitors) to investigate the molecular mechanisms of S1P effects. Our results showed that S1P treatment significantly upregulated the expression of CCN1 and CCN2 in a concentration-dependent manner in hGL cells. Additionally, inhibition or silencing of S1P1, but not S1P3, completely abolished the S1P-induced upregulation of CCN2 expression. Furthermore, we demonstrated that S1P-induced nuclear translocation of YAP and inhibition or silencing of YAP completely abolished the S1P-induced upregulation of CCN1 and CCN2 expression. Notably, silencing of CCN2, but not CCN1, completely reversed the S1P-induced upregulation of COX2 expression and the increase in PGE2 production. Thus, CCN2 mediates the S1P-induced upregulation of COX2 expression through the S1P1-mediated signaling pathway in hGL cells. Our findings expand our understanding of the molecular mechanism underlying the S1P-mediated cellular activities in the human ovary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liao-Liao Hu
- Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330031, Jiangxi, China
- Jiangxi Key Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology and Pathology, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330031, Jiangxi, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, BC Children’s Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6H3V5, Canada; (H.-M.C.); (Y.Y.); (Y.L.); (E.L.T.)
| | - Hsun-Ming Chang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, BC Children’s Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6H3V5, Canada; (H.-M.C.); (Y.Y.); (Y.L.); (E.L.T.)
| | - Yuyin Yi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, BC Children’s Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6H3V5, Canada; (H.-M.C.); (Y.Y.); (Y.L.); (E.L.T.)
| | - Yingtao Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, BC Children’s Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6H3V5, Canada; (H.-M.C.); (Y.Y.); (Y.L.); (E.L.T.)
| | - Elizabeth L. Taylor
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, BC Children’s Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6H3V5, Canada; (H.-M.C.); (Y.Y.); (Y.L.); (E.L.T.)
| | - Li-Ping Zheng
- Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330031, Jiangxi, China
- Jiangxi Key Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology and Pathology, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330031, Jiangxi, China
- Correspondence: (L.-P.Z.); (P.C.K.L.)
| | - Peter C.K. Leung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, BC Children’s Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6H3V5, Canada; (H.-M.C.); (Y.Y.); (Y.L.); (E.L.T.)
- Correspondence: (L.-P.Z.); (P.C.K.L.)
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12
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Liu C, Chang HM, Yi Y, Fang Y, Zhao F, Leung PCK, Yang X. ALK4-SMAD2/3-SMAD4 signaling mediates the activin A-induced suppression of PTX3 in human granulosa-lutein cells. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2019; 493:110485. [PMID: 31185247 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2019.110485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2018] [Revised: 06/06/2019] [Accepted: 06/07/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
As one of the members of the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) superfamily, activin A plays an important role in regulating follicular development and oocyte maturation. Pentraxin 3 (PTX3) is the key component that promotes the process of cumulus expansion during mammalian ovulation. At present, the regulation of PTX3 expression in human granulosa cells remains largely unknown. This study aimed to examine the effects of activin A on the expression of PTX3 in human granulosa-lutein (hGL) cells and to investigate the underlying molecular mechanisms. Using an established immortalized hGL cell line (SVOG) and primary hGL cells as study models, we demonstrated that activin A significantly increased the phosphorylation of SMAD2 and SMAD3, which suppressed the expression of PTX3 at both the mRNA and protein levels. Additionally, these effects induced by activin A were completely reversed by pretreatment with the TGF-β type I receptor inhibitor SB431542 and knockdown of ALK4. Furthermore, knockdown of SMAD2, SMAD3, or SMAD4 completely reversed the activin A-induced suppressive effects on PTX3 expression. Notably, the ChIP analyses demonstrated that phosphorylated SMADs could bind to human PTX3 promoter. Collectively, our results showed that the ALK4-SMAD2/3-SMAD4 signaling pathway most likely mediates the suppressive effect of activin A on PTX3 expression in hGL cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang Liu
- Department of Human Reproductive Medicine, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Hsun-Ming Chang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Yuyin Yi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Ying Fang
- Department of Human Reproductive Medicine, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Feiyan Zhao
- Department of Human Reproductive Medicine, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Peter C K Leung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
| | - Xiaokui Yang
- Department of Human Reproductive Medicine, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
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Bloise E, Ciarmela P, Dela Cruz C, Luisi S, Petraglia F, Reis FM. Activin A in Mammalian Physiology. Physiol Rev 2019; 99:739-780. [DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00002.2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Activins are dimeric glycoproteins belonging to the transforming growth factor beta superfamily and resulting from the assembly of two beta subunits, which may also be combined with alpha subunits to form inhibins. Activins were discovered in 1986 following the isolation of inhibins from porcine follicular fluid, and were characterized as ovarian hormones that stimulate follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) release by the pituitary gland. In particular, activin A was shown to be the isoform of greater physiological importance in humans. The current understanding of activin A surpasses the reproductive system and allows its classification as a hormone, a growth factor, and a cytokine. In more than 30 yr of intense research, activin A was localized in female and male reproductive organs but also in other organs and systems as diverse as the brain, liver, lung, bone, and gut. Moreover, its roles include embryonic differentiation, trophoblast invasion of the uterine wall in early pregnancy, and fetal/neonate brain protection in hypoxic conditions. It is now recognized that activin A overexpression may be either cytostatic or mitogenic, depending on the cell type, with important implications for tumor biology. Activin A also regulates bone formation and regeneration, enhances joint inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis, and triggers pathogenic mechanisms in the respiratory system. In this 30-yr review, we analyze the evidence for physiological roles of activin A and the potential use of activin agonists and antagonists as therapeutic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrrico Bloise
- Department of Morphology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil; Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil; Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecological Clinic, University of Siena, Siena, Italy; and Department of Biomedical, Experimental and Clinical Sciences, Division of Obstetrics and
| | - Pasquapina Ciarmela
- Department of Morphology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil; Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil; Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecological Clinic, University of Siena, Siena, Italy; and Department of Biomedical, Experimental and Clinical Sciences, Division of Obstetrics and
| | - Cynthia Dela Cruz
- Department of Morphology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil; Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil; Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecological Clinic, University of Siena, Siena, Italy; and Department of Biomedical, Experimental and Clinical Sciences, Division of Obstetrics and
| | - Stefano Luisi
- Department of Morphology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil; Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil; Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecological Clinic, University of Siena, Siena, Italy; and Department of Biomedical, Experimental and Clinical Sciences, Division of Obstetrics and
| | - Felice Petraglia
- Department of Morphology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil; Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil; Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecological Clinic, University of Siena, Siena, Italy; and Department of Biomedical, Experimental and Clinical Sciences, Division of Obstetrics and
| | - Fernando M. Reis
- Department of Morphology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil; Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil; Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecological Clinic, University of Siena, Siena, Italy; and Department of Biomedical, Experimental and Clinical Sciences, Division of Obstetrics and
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15
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Bai L, Chang HM, Zhu YM, Leung PCK. Bone morphogenetic protein 2 increases lysyl oxidase activity via up-regulation of snail in human granulosa-lutein cells. Cell Signal 2018; 53:201-211. [PMID: 30321593 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2018.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2018] [Revised: 10/10/2018] [Accepted: 10/11/2018] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Lysyl oxidase (LOX) is a copper-dependent enzyme that maintains and stabilizes the extracellular matrix (ECM) by catalyzing the cross-linking of elastin and collagen. ECM within the ovarian follicle plays a crucial role in regulating follicular development and oocyte maturation. Bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP2) belongs to the BMP subfamily that has been shown to be involved in the process of ovarian folliculogenesis and luteal formation. To date, whether BMP2 regulates the activity of LOX during human follicular development remains to be elucidated. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of BMP2 on the regulation of LOX expression and activity in human granulosa-lutein cells (hGL) and the underlying mechanisms. Using both primary and immortalized (SVOG cells) hGL cells, we demonstrated that BMP2 up-regulated the expression and activity of LOX and hence decreased the soluble collagens in cultured medium in hGL cells. Additionally, the mRNA and protein levels of two transcriptional factors, SNAIL and SLUG, were increased following cell exposure to BMP2. Knockdown of SNAIL, but not SLUG partially reversed BMP2-induced increases in LOX expression and activity. The BMP2-induced up-regulation of SNAIL expression was abolished by the pre-treatment with two BMP type I receptor inhibitors, dorsomorphin and DMH-1, but not SB431542. Moreover, knockdown of SMAD4 completely abolished BMP2-induced up-regulation of SNAIL expression and the subsequent increases in LOX expression and activity. Our results suggest that BMP2 increases LOX expression and activity via the up-regulation of SNAIL in hGL cells. These findings may provide insights into the functional role of BMP2 in the regulation of ECM formation during folliculogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Long Bai
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of British Columbia, and BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Hsun-Ming Chang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of British Columbia, and BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Yi-Min Zhu
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Peter C K Leung
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of British Columbia, and BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
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16
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Joung JW, Oh HK, Lee SJ, Kim YA, Jung HJ. Significance of Intratumoral Fibrosis in Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma. J Pathol Transl Med 2018; 52:323-330. [PMID: 30121971 PMCID: PMC6166018 DOI: 10.4132/jptm.2018.07.21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2018] [Accepted: 07/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Intratumoral fibrosis (ITF) is a frequent histologic finding in solid organ tumors. Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is a highly vascularized tumor with different shapes and degrees of ITF and inflammation. ITF is a poor prognostic factor, especially in breast cancer, and is related to intratumoral necrosis (ITN) and intratumoral inflammation (ITI). However, the significance of ITF in RCC has not been fully studied. In this study, we evaluate the relationships between ITF and other clinicopathologic parameters associated with RCC prognosis. Methods ITF was evaluated in 204 clear cell renal cell carcinoma (CCRCC) specimens according to presence and grade of fibrosis, degree of ITI, and presence of ITN. Lysyl oxidase (LOX) expression in tumor cells was also evaluated with clinicopathologic parameters. Results Among 204 CCRCC cases, 167 (81.7%) showed ITF, 71 (34.8%) showed ITI, 35 (17.2%) showed ITN, and 111 (54.4%) showed LOX expression. ITF correlated with Fuhrman nuclear grade (p = .046), lymphovascular invasion (LVI) (p = .027), and ITN (p = .036). Patients with ITF had a poor five-year overall survival rate (p = .104). Conclusions ITF is related to other poor prognostic factors in CCRCC, such as Fuhrman nuclear grade, ITN, and LVI, but ITF itself had no significant correlation with prognosis of CCRCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jae Won Joung
- Department of Pathology, Catholic University of Daegu School of Medicine, Daegu, Korea
| | - Hoon Kyu Oh
- Department of Pathology, Catholic University of Daegu School of Medicine, Daegu, Korea
| | - Sun Jae Lee
- Department of Pathology, Catholic University of Daegu School of Medicine, Daegu, Korea
| | - Young Ah Kim
- Department of Pathology, Catholic University of Daegu School of Medicine, Daegu, Korea
| | - Hyun Jin Jung
- Department of Urology, Catholic University of Daegu School of Medicine, Daegu, Korea
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17
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Zhang XY, Chang HM, Taylor EL, Liu RZ, Leung PCK. BMP6 Downregulates GDNF Expression Through SMAD1/5 and ERK1/2 Signaling Pathways in Human Granulosa-Lutein Cells. Endocrinology 2018; 159:2926-2938. [PMID: 29750278 DOI: 10.1210/en.2018-00189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2018] [Accepted: 05/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) 6 is a critical regulator of follicular development that is expressed in mammalian oocytes and granulosa cells. Glial cell line‒derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) is an intraovarian neurotrophic factor that plays an essential role in regulating mammalian oocyte maturation. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of BMP6 on the regulation of GDNF expression and the potential underlying mechanisms. We used an established immortalized human granulosa cell line (SVOG cells) and primary human granulosa-lutein (hGL) cells as in vitro cell models. Our results showed that BMP6 significantly downregulated the expression of GDNF in both SVOG and primary hGL cells. With dual inhibition approaches (kinase receptor inhibitor and small interfering RNA knockdown), our results showed that both activin receptor kinase-like (ALK) 2 and ALK3 are involved in BMP6-induced downregulation of GDNF. In addition, BMP6 induced the phosphorylation of Sma- and Mad-related protein (SMAD)1/5/8 and ERK1/2 but not AKT or p38. Among three downstream mediators, both SMAD1 and SMAD5 are involved in BMP6-induced downregulation of GDNF. Moreover, concomitant knockdown of endogenous SMAD4 and inhibition of ERK1/2 activity completely reversed BMP6-induced downregulation of GDNF, indicating that both SMAD and ERK1/2 signaling pathways are required for the regulatory effect of BMP6 on GDNF expression. Our findings suggest an additional role for an intrafollicular growth factor in regulating follicular function through paracrine interactions in human granulosa cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin-Yue Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Hsun-Ming Chang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Elizabeth L Taylor
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Rui-Zhi Liu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Peter C K Leung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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18
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Shah JS, Sabouni R, Cayton Vaught KC, Owen CM, Albertini DF, Segars JH. Biomechanics and mechanical signaling in the ovary: a systematic review. J Assist Reprod Genet 2018; 35:1135-1148. [PMID: 29691711 PMCID: PMC6063820 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-018-1180-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2018] [Accepted: 04/05/2018] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Mammalian oogenesis and folliculogenesis share a dynamic connection that is critical for gamete development. For maintenance of quiescence or follicular activation, follicles must respond to soluble signals (growth factors and hormones) and physical stresses, including mechanical forces and osmotic shifts. Likewise, mechanical processes are involved in cortical tension and cell polarity in oocytes. Our objective was to examine the contribution and influence of biomechanical signaling in female mammalian gametogenesis. METHODS We performed a systematic review to assess and summarize the effects of mechanical signaling and mechanotransduction in oocyte maturation and folliculogenesis and to explore possible clinical applications. The review identified 2568 publications of which 122 met the inclusion criteria. RESULTS The integration of mechanical and cell signaling pathways in gametogenesis is complex. Follicular activation or quiescence are influenced by mechanical signaling through the Hippo and Akt pathways involving the yes-associated protein (YAP), transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ), phosphatase and tensin homolog deleted from chromosome 10 (PTEN) gene, the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), and forkhead box O3 (FOXO3) gene. CONCLUSIONS There is overwhelming evidence that mechanical signaling plays a crucial role in development of the ovary, follicle, and oocyte throughout gametogenesis. Emerging data suggest the complexities of mechanotransduction and the biomechanics of oocytes and follicles are integral to understanding of primary ovarian insufficiency, ovarian aging, polycystic ovary syndrome, and applications of fertility preservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaimin S Shah
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of Texas at Houston Health Science Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Reem Sabouni
- Jones Institute for Reproductive Medicine, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, USA
| | - Kamaria C Cayton Vaught
- Howard W. and Georgeanna Seegar Jones Division of Reproductive Sciences and Women's Health Research, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Carter M Owen
- Program in Reproductive and Adult Endocrinology, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | | | - James H Segars
- Howard W. and Georgeanna Seegar Jones Division of Reproductive Sciences and Women's Health Research, Baltimore, MD, USA.
- Gynecology and Obstetrics, 720 Rutland Avenue/Ross 624, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.
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Li H, Chang HM, Shi Z, Leung PCK. SNAIL Mediates TGF-β1-Induced Downregulation of Pentraxin 3 Expression in Human Granulosa Cells. Endocrinology 2018; 159:1644-1657. [PMID: 29462303 PMCID: PMC5939639 DOI: 10.1210/en.2017-03127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2017] [Accepted: 02/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) 1 plays a critical role in regulating follicular development, and its dysregulation has been shown to be involved in the pathogenesis of ovulation dysfunction. SNAIL is a well-known transcriptional repressor that mediates TGF-β1-induced cellular functions. Pentraxin 3 (PTX3) is a key enzyme for the assembly and stabilization of the cumulus oophorus extracellular matrix, which is essential for cumulus expansion during the periovulatory stage. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the roles of TGF-β1 and SNAIL in the regulation of PTX3 expression and to examine the underlying mechanism. An established immortalized human granulosa cell (GC) line (SVOG), a GC tumor cell line (KGN), and primary human granulosa-lutein cells were used as study models. We demonstrated that TGF-β1 treatment substantially decreased the messenger RNA and protein levels of PTX3. This suppressive effect was abolished by cotreatment with the soluble TGF-β type II receptor (TβRII) or the ALK4/5/7 inhibitor SB431542. Knockdown of ALK5, SMAD2/3, or SMAD4 reversed the effects of TGF-β1-induced SNAIL upregulation and PTX3 suppression. These results indicate that TGF-β1 upregulates SNAIL and downregulates PTX3 expression via a TβRII-ALK5-mediated SMAD-dependent signaling pathway in human GCs. Additionally, TGF-β1-induced PTX3 suppression was mediated by upregulation of the SNAIL transcription factor, as knockdown of SNAIL completely reversed the suppression of PTX3 in response to TGF-β1. These findings could inform the roles of TGF-β1 and SNAIL in the regulation of follicular function and might provide therapeutic targets for the treatment of ovulation dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Li
- Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding and Reproduction, Institute of Animal Science, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, BC Children’s Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Hsun-Ming Chang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, BC Children’s Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Zhendan Shi
- Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding and Reproduction, Institute of Animal Science, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing, China
| | - Peter C K Leung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, BC Children’s Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Correspondence: Peter C. K. Leung, PhD, FRSC, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Children Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Room 317, 950 West 28th Avenue, Vancouver, British Columbia V5Z 4H4, Canada. E-mail:
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20
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Fan Q, Cheng Y, Chang HM, Deguchi M, Hsueh AJ, Leung PCK. Sphingosine-1-phosphate promotes ovarian cancer cell proliferation by disrupting Hippo signaling. Oncotarget 2018; 8:27166-27176. [PMID: 28460443 PMCID: PMC5432326 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.15677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2016] [Accepted: 02/06/2017] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Epithelial ovarian carcinomas account for more than 90% of human ovarian cancers and have become the primary cause of death for gynecological malignancies. Unlimited cell proliferation and resistance to cell apoptosis contribute to the development of ovarian cancers. However, the underlying mechanisms involved in these processes in epithelial ovarian carcinomas are yet poorly understood. In the present study, we examined the Hippo signaling gene expression and investigated the effects of Sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) on cell proliferation and the underlying mechanisms in human ovarian cancer cell lines, OVCAR3 and SKOV3. Our results demonstrate that S1P disrupts Hippo signaling by reducing YAP phosphorylation and increasing the expression of CCN1 and CCN2 in both ovarian cancer cells. Furthermore, the increase in CCN1/CCN2 expression contributes to the S1P-induced increase in cancer cell proliferation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qianlan Fan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, British Columbia Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, V5Z 4H4, Canada
| | - Yuan Cheng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305-5317, USA
| | - Hsun-Ming Chang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, British Columbia Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, V5Z 4H4, Canada
| | - Masashi Deguchi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305-5317, USA
| | - Aaron J Hsueh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305-5317, USA
| | - Peter C K Leung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, British Columbia Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, V5Z 4H4, Canada
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21
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Bai L, Chang HM, Cheng JC, Chu G, Leung PCK, Yang G. Lithium chloride inhibits StAR and progesterone production through GSK-3β and ERK1/2 signaling pathways in human granulosa-lutein cells. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2018; 461:89-99. [PMID: 28867214 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2017.08.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2017] [Revised: 08/23/2017] [Accepted: 08/24/2017] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Lithium chloride (LiCl) is a widely-used medication to treat neurological disorders that has undesirable side effects on the female reproductive system. It has been show that LiCl can inhibit ovarian folliculogenesis, promote follicle atresia and suppress steroid hormone production in rodents. However, the effects of LiCl on human ovarian steroidogenesis remain completely unknown. In this study, both primary and immortalized human granulosa-lutein (hGL) cells were used to investigate the effects of LiCl on progesterone production and its related enzyme expression as well as the underlying mechanisms. Our results showed that LiCl significantly down-regulated the steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR) expression and subsequent progesterone production in hGL cells. Additionally, LiCl induced the phosphorylation of GSK-3β and ERK1/2 but not AKT or CREB. Knockdown of endogenous GSK-3β or inhibition of ERK1/2 partially reversed LiCl-induced down-regulation of StAR. Furthermore, by using dual inhibition approaches, the results showed that both GSK-3β and ERK1/2 signaling mediated the regulatory effect of LiCl on StAR expression. Our findings deepen our understanding of the pathological effects and the underlying molecular mechanisms of how lithium might affect the female reproductive system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Long Bai
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, PR China; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of British Columbia, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia V5Z 4H4, Canada
| | - Hsun-Ming Chang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of British Columbia, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia V5Z 4H4, Canada
| | - Jung-Chien Cheng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of British Columbia, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia V5Z 4H4, Canada
| | - Guiyan Chu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, PR China
| | - Peter C K Leung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of British Columbia, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia V5Z 4H4, Canada.
| | - Gongshe Yang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, PR China.
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22
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Bai L, Chang HM, Cheng JC, Chu G, Leung PCK, Yang G. ALK2/ALK3-BMPR2/ACVR2A Mediate BMP2-Induced Downregulation of Pentraxin 3 Expression in Human Granulosa-Lutein Cells. Endocrinology 2017; 158:3501-3511. [PMID: 28977600 DOI: 10.1210/en.2017-00436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2017] [Accepted: 07/19/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP2) belongs to the transforming growth factor-β superfamily and plays a critical role in regulating ovarian follicle function. Currently, the role of BMP2 during cumulus expansion remains to be determined. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of BMP2 on the regulation of pentraxin 3 (PTX3) expression (the major component of cumulus expansion) and the underlying mechanisms in human granulosa-lutein (hGL) cells. Both primary and immortalized hGL cells were used as research models. Our results showed that treatment with BMP2 significantly suppressed the basal and luteinizing hormone-induced upregulation of PTX3. In addition, BMP2 stimulated the phosphorylation of SMAD1/5/8, and this effect was abolished by the addition of BMP type I receptor inhibitors, dorsomorphin homolog 1, and dorsomorphin but not SB431542. Moreover, the knockdown of activin receptorlike kinase 2/3 or BMP receptor type II/activin receptor type IIB receptors completely reversed the BMP2-induced phosphorylation of SMAD1/5/8 and restored PTX3 expression. Similarly, the knockdown of SMAD4 completely reversed the suppressive effect of BMP2 on the expression of PTX3. These results improve our understanding of the molecular mechanisms of BMP2 signaling. Our findings suggest that BMP2 may be involved in the regulation of cumulus expansion during the periovulatory stage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Long Bai
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, People's Republic of China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of British Columbia, and British Columbia Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia V5Z 4H4, Canada
| | - Hsun-Ming Chang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of British Columbia, and British Columbia Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia V5Z 4H4, Canada
| | - Jung-Chien Cheng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of British Columbia, and British Columbia Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia V5Z 4H4, Canada
| | - Guiyan Chu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, People's Republic of China
| | - Peter C K Leung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of British Columbia, and British Columbia Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia V5Z 4H4, Canada
| | - Gongshe Yang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, People's Republic of China
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23
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Activation of Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress in Granulosa Cells from Patients with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Contributes to Ovarian Fibrosis. Sci Rep 2017; 7:10824. [PMID: 28883502 PMCID: PMC5589802 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-11252-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2017] [Accepted: 08/22/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent studies report the involvement of intra-ovarian factors, such as inflammation and oxidative stress, in the pathophysiology of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), the most common endocrine disorder of reproductive age women. Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress is a local factor that affects various cellular events during a broad spectrum of physiological and pathological conditions. It may also be an important determinant of pro-fibrotic remodeling during tissue fibrosis. In the present study, we showed that ER stress was activated in granulosa cells of PCOS patients as well as in a well-established PCOS mouse model. Pharmacological inducers of ER stress, tunicamycin and thapsigargin, were found to increase the expression of pro-fibrotic growth factors, including transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1, in human granulosa cells, and their expression also increased in granulosa cells of PCOS patients. By contrast, treatment of PCOS mice with an ER stress inhibitor, tauroursodeoxycholic acid or BGP-15, decreased interstitial fibrosis and collagen deposition in ovaries, accompanied by a reduction in TGF-β1 expression in granulosa cells. These findings suggest that ER stress in granulosa cells of women with PCOS contributes to the induction of pro-fibrotic growth factors during ovarian fibrosis, and that ER stress may serve as a therapeutic target in PCOS.
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24
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Chang HM, Qiao J, Leung PCK. Oocyte-somatic cell interactions in the human ovary-novel role of bone morphogenetic proteins and growth differentiation factors. Hum Reprod Update 2016; 23:1-18. [PMID: 27797914 PMCID: PMC5155571 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmw039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 172] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2016] [Revised: 09/29/2016] [Accepted: 10/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Initially identified for their capability to induce heterotopic bone formation,
bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) are multifunctional growth factors that belong
to the transforming growth factor β superfamily. Using cellular and
molecular genetic approaches, recent studies have implicated intra-ovarian BMPs as
potent regulators of ovarian follicular function. The bi-directional communication
of oocytes and the surrounding somatic cells is mandatory for normal follicle
development and oocyte maturation. This review summarizes the current knowledge on
the physiological role and molecular determinants of these ovarian regulatory
factors within the human germline-somatic regulatory loop. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE The regulation of ovarian function remains poorly characterized in humans because,
while the fundamental process of follicular development and oocyte maturation is
highly similar across species, most information on the regulation of ovarian
function is obtained from studies using rodent models. Thus, this review focuses
on the studies that used human biological materials to gain knowledge about human
ovarian biology and disorders and to develop strategies for preventing, diagnosing
and treating these abnormalities. SEARCH METHODS Relevant English-language publications describing the roles of BMPs or growth
differentiation factors (GDFs) in human ovarian biology and phenotypes were
comprehensively searched using PubMed and the Google Scholar database. The
publications included those published since the initial identification of BMPs in
the mammalian ovary in 1999 through July 2016. OUTCOMES Studies using human biological materials have revealed the expression of BMPs,
GDFs and their putative receptors as well as their molecular signaling in the
fundamental cells (oocyte, cumulus/granulosa cells (GCs) and theca/stroma cells)
of the ovarian follicles throughout follicle development. With the availability of
recombinant human BMPs/GDFs and the development of immortalized human cell lines,
functional studies have demonstrated the physiological role of intra-ovarian
BMPs/GDFs in all aspects of ovarian functions, from follicle development to
steroidogenesis, cell–cell communication, oocyte maturation, ovulation and
luteal function. Furthermore, there is crosstalk between these potent ovarian
regulators and the endocrine signaling system. Dysregulation or naturally
occurring mutations within the BMP system may lead to several female reproductive
diseases. The latest development of recombinant BMPs, synthetic BMP inhibitors,
gene therapy and tools for BMP-ligand sequestration has made the BMP pathway a
potential therapeutic target in certain human fertility disorders; however,
further clinical trials are needed. Recent studies have indicated that GDF8 is an
intra-ovarian factor that may play a novel role in regulating ovarian functions in
the human ovary. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Intra-ovarian BMPs/GDFs are critical regulators of folliculogenesis and human
ovarian functions. Any dysregulation or variations in these ligands or their
receptors may affect the related intracellular signaling and influence ovarian
functions, which accounts for several reproductive pathologies and infertility.
Understanding the normal and pathological roles of intra-ovarian BMPs/GDFs,
especially as related to GC functions and follicular fluid levels, will inform
innovative approaches to fertility regulation and improve the diagnosis and
treatment of ovarian disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsun-Ming Chang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, 49 North Garden Rd., Haidian District, Beijing 100191, P.R. China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Child and Family Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Room 317, 950 West 28 Avenue, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada V5Z 4H4
| | - Jie Qiao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, 49 North Garden Rd., Haidian District, Beijing 100191, P.R. China
| | - Peter C K Leung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Child and Family Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Room 317, 950 West 28 Avenue, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada V5Z 4H4
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