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Stenhouse C, Halloran KM, Hoskins EC, Moses RM, Wu G, Seo H, Johnson GA, Suva LJ, Gaddy D, Bazer FW. Progesterone regulates tissue non-specific alkaline phosphatase (TNSALP) expression and activity in ovine utero-placental tissues. J Anim Sci Biotechnol 2024; 15:90. [PMID: 38956701 PMCID: PMC11220967 DOI: 10.1186/s40104-024-01048-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tissue non-specific alkaline phosphatase (TNSALP; encoded by the ALPL gene) has a critical role in the postnatal regulation of phosphate homeostasis, yet how TNSALP activity and expression are regulated during pregnancy remain largely unknown. This study tested the hypothesis that progesterone (P4) and/or interferon tau (IFNT) regulate TNSALP activity during pregnancy in sheep. METHODS In Exp. 1, ewes were bred and received daily intramuscular injections of either corn oil vehicle (CO) or 25 mg progesterone in CO (P4) for the first 8 days of pregnancy and were hysterectomized on either Day 9, 12, or 125 of gestation. In Exp. 2, ewes were fitted with intrauterine catheters on Day 7 of the estrous cycle and received daily intramuscular injections of 50 mg P4 in CO and/or 75 mg progesterone receptor antagonist (RU486) in CO from Days 8 to 15, and twice daily intrauterine injections of either control proteins (CX) or IFNT (25 µg/uterine horn/d) from Days 11 to 15 (treatment groups: P4 + CX; P4 + IFNT; RU486 + P4 + CX; and RU486 + P4 + IFNT) and were hysterectomized on Day 16. RESULTS In Exp. 1, endometria from ewes administered P4 had greater expression of ALPL mRNA than ewes administered CO on Day 12. TNSALP activity appeared greater in the epithelia, stratum compactum stroma, and endothelium of the blood vessels in the endometrium and myometrium from ewes administered P4 than ewes administered CO on Day 12. On Day 125, TNSALP activity localized to uterine epithelial and endothelial cells, independent of P4 treatment. TNSALP activity in placentomes appeared greater in P4 treated ewes and was detected in endothelial cells and caruncular tissue in P4 treated but not CO treated ewes. In Exp. 2, endometrial homogenates from ewes administered RU486 + P4 + CX had lower TNSALP activity those for P4 + CX and P4 + IFNT ewes. Immunoreactive TNSALP protein appeared greater in the mid- and deep-glandular epithelia in RU486 + P4 + CX treated ewes as compared to the other treatment groups. Enzymatic activity appeared greater on the apical surface of the deep glandular epithelia in endometria from ewes treated with RU486 + P4 + CX compared to the other treatment groups. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that P4, but not IFNT, regulates the expression and activity of TNSALP in utero-placental tissues and has the potential to contribute to the regulation of phosphate availability that is critical for conceptus development during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire Stenhouse
- Department of Animal Science, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, U.S.A..
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, 77843, U.S.A..
| | - Katherine M Halloran
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, 77843, U.S.A
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, U.S.A
| | - Emily C Hoskins
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, 77843, U.S.A
- College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, 37996, U.S.A
| | - Robyn M Moses
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, 77843, U.S.A
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, U.S.A
| | - Guoyao Wu
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, 77843, U.S.A
| | - Heewon Seo
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, 77843, U.S.A
- Department of Animal and Avian Sciences, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland, 20742, U.S.A
| | - Gregory A Johnson
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, 77843, U.S.A
| | - Larry J Suva
- Department of Veterinary Physiology and Pharmacology, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, 77843, U.S.A
| | - Dana Gaddy
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, 77843, U.S.A
| | - Fuller W Bazer
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, 77843, U.S.A
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Geisert RD, Bazer FW, Lucas CG, Pfeiffer CA, Meyer AE, Sullivan R, Johns DN, Sponchiado M, Prather RS. Maternal recognition of pregnancy in the pig: A servomechanism involving sex steroids, cytokines and prostaglandins. Anim Reprod Sci 2024; 264:107452. [PMID: 38522133 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2024.107452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Revised: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024]
Abstract
Maternal recognition of pregnancy (MRP) is a term utilized in mammals to describe pathways in which the conceptus alters the endometrial environment to prevent regression of corpora lutea to ensure continued production of progesterone (P4) required for establishment and maintenance of pregnancy. For nearly 40 years after publication of the endocrine/exocrine theory, conceptus estrogen (E2) was considered the primary maternal recognition signal in the pig. Conceptus production of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) was also considered to be a major factor in preventing luteolysis. An addition to E2 and PGE2, pig conceptuses produce interleukin 1B2 (IL1B2) and interferons (IFN) delta (IFND) and gamma (IFNG). The present review provides brief history of the discovery of E2, PGs and IFNS which led to research investigating the role of these conceptus secreted factors in establishing and maintaining pregnancy in the pig. The recent utilization of gene editing technology allowed a more direct approach to investigate the in vivo roles of IL1B2, E2, PGE2, AND IFNG for establishment of pregnancy. These studies revealed unknown functions for IFNG and ILB2 in addition to PGE2 and E2. Thus, pregnancy recognition signal is via a servomechanism in requiring sequential effects of P4, E2, IL1B2, PGE2 and IFNG. Results indicate that the original established dogma for the role of conceptus E2 and PGs in MRP is a far too simplified model that involves the interplay of numerous mechanisms for inhibiting luteolysis, inducing critical elongation of the conceptuses and resolution of inflammation in pigs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodney D Geisert
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA.
| | - Fuller W Bazer
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Caroline G Lucas
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - Caroline A Pfeiffer
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - Ashley E Meyer
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - Riley Sullivan
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - Destiny N Johns
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - Mariana Sponchiado
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - Randall S Prather
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
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3
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da Silva MI, Ott T. Effects of conceptus proteins on endometrium and blood leukocytes of dairy cattle using transcriptome and meta-analysis. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.04.25.591148. [PMID: 38712302 PMCID: PMC11071483 DOI: 10.1101/2024.04.25.591148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
This study investigates the short and long-term effects of IFNT and PAG on the transcriptome of endometrium and blood leukocytes. Holstein heifers received intrauterine infusions of one of the following treatments: 20 mL of a 200 μg/mL bovine serum albumin solution (BSA; vehicle) from day 14 to 16 of the estrous cycle (BSA), vehicle + 10 μg/mL of IFNT from day 14 to 16 (IFNT3), vehicle + 10 μg/mL of IFNT from day 14 to 19 (IFNT6), and vehicle + 10 μg/mL of IFNT from day 14 to 16 followed by vehicle + 10 μg/mL of IFNT + 5 μg/mL of PAG from day 17 to 19 (IFNT+PAG). RNA-seq analysis was performed in endometrial biopsies and blood leukocytes collected after treatments. Acute IFNT signaling in the endometrium (IFNT3 vs BSA), induced differentially expressed genes (DEG) associated with interferon activation, immune response, inflammation, cell death, and inhibited vesicle transport and extracellular matrix remodeling. Prolonged IFNT signaling (IFNT6 vs IFNT3) altered gene expression related to cell invasion, retinoic acid signaling, and embryo implantation. In contrast, PAG induced numerous DEG in blood leukocytes but only 4 DEG in the endometrium. In blood leukocytes, PAG stimulated genes involved in development and TGFB signaling while inhibiting interferon signaling and cell migration. Overall, IFNT is a primary regulator of endometrial gene expression, while PAG predominantly affected the transcriptome of circulating immune cells during early pregnancy. Further research is essential to fully grasp the roles of identified DEG in both the endometrium and blood leukocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Isabel da Silva
- Department of Animal Science, Center for Reproductive Biology and Health, Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
| | - Troy Ott
- Department of Animal Science, Center for Reproductive Biology and Health, Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
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4
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Madureira G, Mion B, Van Winters B, Peñagaricano F, Li J, Ribeiro ES. Endometrial responsiveness to interferon-tau and its association with subsequent reproductive performance in dairy heifers. J Dairy Sci 2024:S0022-0302(24)00763-X. [PMID: 38642656 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2023-24627] [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: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/22/2024]
Abstract
Our objectives were to evaluate the endometrial responsiveness of dairy heifers to an intrauterine infusion of recombinant bovine interferon-tau (rbIFN-τ) and to associate endometrial responses to rbIFN-τ with subsequent reproductive performance. In Experiments 1 and 2, cyclic heifers were enrolled in a 5-d CIDR Cosynch program for estrous synchronization, and blood sampling and ultrasonography examinations were performed on d 0, 4, 7, 11, and 14 of the estrous cycle. In Experiment 1, heifers were randomly assigned to receive an intrauterine infusion containing 2 µg of rbIFN-τ (rbIFN-τ = 19) or saline (CTRL = 19) into the uterine horn ipsilateral to the corpus luteum (CL) on d 14 of the estrous cycle. Six hours after the infusion, the infused uterine horn was flushed for sampling of the uterine luminal fluid (ULF) for analyses of composition, and the endometrium was biopsied for transcriptomics. In Experiment 2, 100 heifers received an intrauterine infusion of rbIFN-τ, and the same procedures for uterine sample collection described in Experiment 1 were performed. After the intrauterine test, heifers were enrolled in a breeding program and classified as highly fertile (HF; pregnant at first AI) or subfertile (SF; not pregnant at first AI). Statistical analyses were performed using linear regression models, which included the effects of treatment (Experiment 1: CTRL vs. rbIFN-τ) or fertility group (Experiment 2: HF vs. SF) and block of samples. Intrauterine infusion of rbIFN-τ increased the expression of classical interferon-stimulated genes in the endometrium (e.g., ISG15, MX1, OAS2, IRF9, and USP18), and an antiviral response was predicted to be the main downstream effect of the transcriptome changes. In addition, rbIFN-τ increased the abundance of cholesterol, glycerol, and the overall concentration of oxylipins in the ULF. Analysis of endometrial transcriptome between HF and SF heifers revealed important differences in the expression of proteins associated with cell signaling, metabolism, attachment, and migration, with a large representation of genes encoding extracellular matrix proteins. In general, differently expressed genes were expected to be downregulated by IFN-τ but seemed to fail to be downregulated in SF heifers, resulting in higher expression in SF compared with HF heifers. Subfertile heifers had lower concentrations of glycerol and an altered profile of oxylipins in the ULF, with lower abundance of oxylipins derived from arachidonic acid and dihomo-γ-linolenic acid, and greater abundance of oxylipins derived from linoleic acid. Measurements of ovarian function did not differ between groups and, therefore, did not influence the observed results in uterine biology. In conclusion, the endometrial responsiveness to IFN-τ is variable among individuals and associated with subsequent fertility of heifers, indicating that communication between conceptus and endometrium is critical for the uterine receptivity and survival of pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Madureira
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada, N1G 2W1
| | - B Mion
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada, N1G 2W1
| | - B Van Winters
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada, N1G 2W1
| | - F Peñagaricano
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, University of Wisconsin- Madison, Madison, WI, United States of America, 53706
| | - J Li
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada, N1G 2W1
| | - E S Ribeiro
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada, N1G 2W1..
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5
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Song M, Hao K, Qi F, Zhao W, Wang Z, Wang J, Hu G. FABP4 mediates endoplasmic reticulum stress and autophagy to regulate endometrial epithelial cell function during early sheep gestation. J Reprod Dev 2023; 69:298-307. [PMID: 37779094 PMCID: PMC10721855 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2023-015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Dynamic changes in the endometrium are crucial for establishing early pregnancy in ruminants. Blastocyst elongation and implantation require hormones and nutrients to be secreted from the maternal endometrium. The fatty acid-binding protein FABP4 is a widely expressed fatty acid transport protein that promotes cell proliferation, migration, and invasion and is involved in conceptus implantation. However, the mechanism underlying the functional regulation of endometrial epithelial cells (EECs) by FABP4 during ovine peri-implantation remains unclear. We simulated hormonal changes in vitro in sheep EECs (SEECs) during the peri-implantation period and found that it elevated FABP4 expression. FABP4 inhibition significantly reduced cell migration, endoplasmic reticulum stress, and autophagy, suggesting that FABP4 regulates endometrial function in sheep. Moreover, the FABP4 inhibitor BMS309403 counteracted hormone-mediated functional changes in SEECs, and an endoplasmic reticulum stress activator and autophagy inhibitor reversed the abnormal secretion of prostaglandins induced by FABP4 inhibition. These results suggest that FABP4 affects ovine endometrial function during early gestation by regulating endoplasmic reticulum stress and autophagy in SEECs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meijun Song
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shihezi University, Xinjiang 832000, China
| | - Kexing Hao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shihezi University, Xinjiang 832000, China
| | - Fenghua Qi
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shihezi University, Xinjiang 832000, China
| | - Wenjuan Zhao
- Xinjiang Academy of Agriculture and Reclamation Sciences, Xinjiang 832000, China
| | - Zhengrong Wang
- Xinjiang Academy of Agriculture and Reclamation Sciences, Xinjiang 832000, China
| | - Jing Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shihezi University, Xinjiang 832000, China
| | - Guangdong Hu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shihezi University, Xinjiang 832000, China
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6
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Rabaglino MB, Sánchez JM, McDonald M, O’Callaghan E, Lonergan P. Maternal blood transcriptome as a sensor of fetal organ maturation at the end of organogenesis in cattle†. Biol Reprod 2023; 109:749-758. [PMID: 37658765 PMCID: PMC10651065 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioad103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2023] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Harnessing information from the maternal blood to predict fetal growth is attractive yet scarcely explored in livestock. The objectives were to determine the transcriptomic modifications in maternal blood and fetal liver, gonads, and heart according to fetal weight and to model a molecular signature based on the fetal organs allowing the prediction of fetal weight from the maternal blood transcriptome in cattle. In addition to a contemporaneous maternal blood sample, organ samples were collected from 10 male fetuses at 42 days of gestation for RNA-sequencing. Fetal weight ranged from 1.25 to 1.69 g (mean = 1.44 ± 0.15 g). Clustering data analysis revealed clusters of co-expressed genes positively correlated with fetal weight and enriching ontological terms biologically relevant for the organ. For the heart, the 1346 co-expressed genes were involved in energy generation and protein synthesis. For the gonads, the 1042 co-expressed genes enriched seminiferous tubule development. The 459 co-expressed genes identified in the liver were associated with lipid synthesis and metabolism. Finally, the cluster of 571 co-expressed genes determined in maternal blood enriched oxidative phosphorylation and thermogenesis. Next, data from the fetal organs were used to train a regression model of fetal weight, which was predicted with the maternal blood data. The best prediction was achieved when the model was trained with 35 co-expressed genes overlapping between heart and maternal blood (root-mean-square error = 0.04, R2 = 0.93). In conclusion, linking transcriptomic information from maternal blood with that from the fetal heart unveiled maternal blood as a predictor of fetal development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Belen Rabaglino
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - José María Sánchez
- Departamento de Reproducción Animal, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria, Madrid, Spain
| | - Michael McDonald
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Elena O’Callaghan
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Pat Lonergan
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
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7
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Talukder AK, Rabaglino MB, Browne JA, Charpigny G, Lonergan P. Dose- and time-dependent effects of interferon tau on bovine endometrial gene expression. Theriogenology 2023; 211:1-10. [PMID: 37549523 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.07.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/09/2023]
Abstract
Failure by the developing conceptus to secrete sufficient interferon tau (IFNT), required for maternal recognition of pregnancy (MRP), at the appropriate time is related to early pregnancy loss in cattle. We aimed to test the hypothesis that there is a dose- and time-dependent relationship between IFNT and the endometrial expression of key interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs) involved in the signalling cascade leading to MRP in cattle. Candidate genes were identified first through a bioinformatic approach, where integrated transcriptomic data from two previous studies were analyzed to identify endometrial genes induced by IFNT. Next, expression of selected candidate genes was investigated in vitro in endometrial explants. Endometrial explants collected from cows (n = 8) in the late luteal phase of the estrous cycle were cultured in medium without (control) or with recombinant ovine IFNT (1, 10, 100 ng/mL) for 6 h. Simultaneously, endometrial explants were cultured in medium containing 100 ng/mL IFNT for different time periods (15 min, 30 min, 1 h, 3 h, 6 h). Gene expression was analyzed by RT-qPCR. We identified 54 endometrial genes responding to IFNT and to some degree to the conceptus, from which five ISGs (CMPK2, BPNT1, IFI35, TNFSF10 and TRIM38) were further selected for the dose- and time-dependent experiments. Classical ISGs (ISG15, OAS1, MX1 and MX2) were up-regulated (P < 0.05) in endometrium by 1 ng/mL IFNT. However, other selected ISGs (CMPK2, BPNT1, IFI35, TNFSF10 and TRIM38) were induced only by higher concentrations (10 and 100 ng/mL) of IFNT (P < 0.05). In terms of duration of exposure, IFNT at 100 ng/mL induced a significant (P < 0.05) increase in ISG15 and CMPK2 expression after 1 h incubation, while all other studied ISGs in the endometrium were upregulated when cultured for 3 or 6 h, but did not affect expression when the duration of culture was for 1 h or less. These results suggest that IFNT acts on the uterus in both a dose- and time-dependent manner in cattle and that timely exposure of the endometrium to sufficient IFNT is essential for appropriate signalling to ensure successful pregnancy establishment.
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Affiliation(s)
- A K Talukder
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland; Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics & Reproductive Health, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Agricultural University, Gazipur, Bangladesh
| | - M B Rabaglino
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - J A Browne
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - G Charpigny
- INRAE, Biologie du Développement et Reproduction, Jouy en Josas, France
| | - P Lonergan
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland.
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8
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Nakamura K, Kusama K, Hori M, Imakawa K. Global analyses and potential effects of extracellular vesicles on the establishment of conceptus implantation during the peri-implantation period. J Reprod Dev 2023; 69:246-253. [PMID: 37495510 PMCID: PMC10602766 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2023-044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Intrauterine extracellular vesicles (EVs) are involved in establishing proper conceptus-endometrial communication, which is essential for conceptus implantation and subsequent successful placentation. Despite several studies on intrauterine EVs, the composition and quantitative changes in conceptus and endometrial EVs, as well as the effects of intrauterine EVs on endometrial epithelial cells (EECs) during the peri-implantation period, have not been well characterized. To elucidate global changes in proteins in EVs extracted from uterine flushings (UFs) during the pre-implantation (P17), just-implantation (P20), and post-implantation (P22) periods, the datasets of the proteome iTRAQ analysis were compared among P17, P20, and P22 EVs. These analyses revealed that the composition and function of proteins in the EVs changed dramatically during peri-implantation in cattle. Notably, intrauterine P17 EVs affected the high expression of "Developmental Biology" and "morphogenesis of an endothelium" compared with those in P20 and P22 EVs. Furthermore, P20 EVs had the functions of the high expression of "mitochondrial calcium ion homeostasis" and "Viral mRNA Translation" compared with those in P17 EVs. Transcripts extracted from EECs treated with P17, P20, or P22 EVs were subjected to RNA-seq analysis. These analyses identified 60 transcripts in EECs commonly induced by intrauterine EVs recovered from P17, P20, and P22, a large number of which were associated with "type I interferon signaling pathway". Collectively, these findings reveal the presence and multiple functions of EVs that are potentially implicated in facilitating conceptus implantation into the uterine epithelium during the peri-implantation period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keigo Nakamura
- Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Mongolian University of Life Sciences, Ulaanbaatar 17024, Mongolia
| | - Kazuya Kusama
- Department of Endocrine Pharmacology, Tokyo University of Pharmacy and Life Sciences, Tokyo 192-0392, Japan
| | - Masatoshi Hori
- Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan
| | - Kazuhiko Imakawa
- Research Institute of Agriculture, Tokai University, Kumamoto 862-8652, Japan
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9
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Jia GX, Ma WJ, Wu ZB, Li S, Zhang XQ, He Z, Wu SX, Tao HP, Fang Y, Song YW, Xu SR, Wang XQ, Yang QE. Single-cell transcriptomic characterization of sheep conceptus elongation and implantation. Cell Rep 2023; 42:112860. [PMID: 37494181 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.112860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Revised: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Bidirectional communication between the developing conceptus and endometrium is essential for pregnancy recognition and establishment in ruminants. We dissect the transcriptomic dynamics of sheep conceptus and corresponding endometrium at pre- and peri-implantation stages using single-cell RNA sequencing. Spherical blastocysts contain five cell types, with 68.62% trophectoderm cells. Strikingly, elongated conceptuses differentiate into 17 cell types, indicating dramatic cell fate specifications. Cell-type-specific gene expression delineates the features of distinctive trophectoderm lineages and indicates that the transition from polar trophectoderm to trophoblast increases interferon-tau expression and likely drives elongation initiation. We identify 13 endometrium-derived cell types and elucidate their molecular responses to conceptus development. Integrated analyses uncover multiple paired transcripts mediating the dialogues between extraembryonic membrane and endometrium, including IGF2-IGF1R, FGF19-FGFR1, NPY-NPY1R, PROS1-AXL, and ADGRE5-CD55. These data provide insight into the molecular regulation of conceptus elongation and represent a valuable resource for functional investigations of pre- and peri-implantation ruminant development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gong-Xue Jia
- Key Laboratory of Adaptation and Evolution of Plateau Biota, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xining 810001, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China; Qinghai Key Laboratory of Animal Ecological Genomics, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xining 810001, China
| | - Wen-Ji Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Science, CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China; Center for Single-Cell Omics, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Zhao-Bo Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Science, CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Shuang Li
- Key Laboratory of Adaptation and Evolution of Plateau Biota, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xining 810001, China
| | - Xiao-Qian Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Adaptation and Evolution of Plateau Biota, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xining 810001, China
| | - Zhen He
- Key Laboratory of Adaptation and Evolution of Plateau Biota, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xining 810001, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Shi-Xin Wu
- Key Laboratory of Adaptation and Evolution of Plateau Biota, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xining 810001, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Hai-Ping Tao
- Key Laboratory of Adaptation and Evolution of Plateau Biota, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xining 810001, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yi Fang
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China; Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Grassland Farming, Northeast Institute of Geography and Agroecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun 130102, China
| | - Yong-Wu Song
- Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Station of Gangcha, Haibei 812300, China
| | - Shang-Rong Xu
- Qinghai Academy of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Qinghai University, Xining 810016, China
| | - Xiao-Qun Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Science, CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.
| | - Qi-En Yang
- Key Laboratory of Adaptation and Evolution of Plateau Biota, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xining 810001, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China; Qinghai Key Laboratory of Animal Ecological Genomics, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xining 810001, China.
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10
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Yoshino H, Kizaki K, Hirata TI, Iga K, Matsuda H, Yamanouchi T, Hashiyada Y, Imai K, Ishiguro-Oonuma T, Kanazawa T, Takahashi T, Hashizume K. Interferon-Stimulated Gene Expression in Peripheral Blood Leucocytes as a Convenient Prediction Marker for Embryo Status in Embryo-Transferred Japanese Black Cows during the Peri-Implantation Period. Vet Sci 2023; 10:408. [PMID: 37505814 PMCID: PMC10386093 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci10070408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Revised: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Pregnancy diagnosis during early gestation is important for cattle reproduction. The expression of interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs) in peripheral blood leukocytes (PBLs) was studied in embryo-transferred (ET) Japanese Black cattle. ISGs in PBLs-ISG15, MX1, MX2, and OAS1-were detected in multiple ovulation ET cattle using a real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was performed. Gestational status was predicted using the average ISG levels during the normal estrous cycle (AVE) and the Youden index from the ROC curve analysis as cutoff values. The ISG15, MX1, and MX2 levels were significantly higher in pregnant cattle (n = 10) than in non-pregnant cattle (n = 23) on gestation day 21, whereas the levels of all ISGs were similar between non-pregnant and non-pregnant cattle with late embryonic death (n = 7). ISG15, MX1, and MX2 appropriately predicted the gestational status of ET cows. The statistical evaluation of the diagnostic accuracy in ET cows on day 21 of gestation presented higher values of sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, and positive predictive values of ISG15, MX1, and MX2 using the Youden index than using the AVE. Therefore, ISG15, MX1, and MX2 are excellent biomarkers of gestational status during the peri-implantation period in ET cattle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hitomi Yoshino
- Cooperative Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Agriculture, Iwate University, 3-18-8 Ueda, Morioka 020-8550, Iwate, Japan
| | - Keiichiro Kizaki
- Cooperative Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Agriculture, Iwate University, 3-18-8 Ueda, Morioka 020-8550, Iwate, Japan
| | - Toh-Ichi Hirata
- Field Science Center, Faculty of Agriculture, Iwate University, 3-18-8 Ueda, Morioka 020-8550, Iwate, Japan
| | - Kosuke Iga
- Tohoku Agricultural Research Center, National Agriculture and Food Research Organization, 4 Akahira, Shimo-kuriyagawa, Morioka 020-0198, Iwate, Japan
| | - Hideo Matsuda
- National Livestock Breeding Center, Nishigo 961-8061, Fukushima, Japan
| | | | - Yutaka Hashiyada
- National Livestock Breeding Center, Nishigo 961-8061, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Kei Imai
- Department of Sustainable Agriculture, Rakuno Gakuen University, 582 Bunkyodai-Midorimachi, Ebetsu 069-8501, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Toshina Ishiguro-Oonuma
- Cooperative Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Agriculture, Iwate University, 3-18-8 Ueda, Morioka 020-8550, Iwate, Japan
| | - Tomomi Kanazawa
- Cooperative Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Agriculture, Iwate University, 3-18-8 Ueda, Morioka 020-8550, Iwate, Japan
| | - Toru Takahashi
- Cooperative Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Agriculture, Iwate University, 3-18-8 Ueda, Morioka 020-8550, Iwate, Japan
| | - Kazuyoshi Hashizume
- Cooperative Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Agriculture, Iwate University, 3-18-8 Ueda, Morioka 020-8550, Iwate, Japan
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11
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Rabaglino MB, Sánchez JM, Mc Donald M, Crowe MA, O'Callaghan E, Lonergan P. Transfer of bovine embryos into a uterus primed with high progesterone concentrations positively impacts fetal development at 42 days of gestation. Theriogenology 2023; 200:25-32. [PMID: 36739669 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.01.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Revised: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Elevated circulating progesterone (P4) concentrations in the first week after conception have been associated with accelerated post-hatching conceptus elongation. However, the consequences, if any, on the development of the fetus are unknown. The objective of this study was to determine the relationship between early circulating P4 and fetal and placental morphometric characteristics at 42 days of gestation. A previously validated model of asynchronous embryo transfer (ET), known to alter uterine exposure to P4, was used in 107 heifers divided in two replicates (replicate 1: n = 51, replicate 2: n = 56). Heifers were randomly assigned to one of the two following groups: those receiving a Day 7 embryo on Day 7 of the cycle (synchronous; ET_D7, n = 49) and those transferred a Day 7 embryo on Day 9 of the cycle (asynchronous; ET_D9, n = 58). The synchronization protocol was started two days earlier for heifers in the ET_D9 group such that ET was done on the same day for both groups. P4 concentrations were determined from Day 3 after estrus to the day of ET. Pregnant heifers were slaughtered at Day 42 of gestation for fetal and placental morphometric measurements. The effects of the group, replicate, fetal sex, and interactions between these variables on fetal and placental characteristics were determined by ANOVA, while Pearson correlation was employed to assess the linear relationship between P4 concentrations two days before and on the day of ET on the fetal parameters. The uteri of heifers in the ET_D9 group were exposed to higher concentrations (P < 0.0001) of P4 from four days before ET, than heifers in the ET_D7 group. Both group and fetal sex variables impacted on fetal crown-rump length (CRL) (group: P < 0.0001, sex: P = 0.001) and fetal weight (group: P = 0.006, sex: P = 0.003). Fetal sex influenced the amniotic sac area (P = 0.003) and amniotic sac weight (P = 0.004); while the group affected the number of cotyledons (P = 0.0009), and the fetal heart weight (P = 0.018). All these parameters were larger in the ET_D9 group compared with ET_D7, and in males compared with females. There was a positive correlation between P4 concentrations two days before ET and fetal weight and CRL, for each sex or considering all fetuses (R2 ∼0.4, p < 0.05). In conclusion, bovine embryos transferred into a uterus primed with higher P4 concentrations underwent enhanced development reflected in higher weight and size at the beginning of the fetal period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Belen Rabaglino
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - José María Sánchez
- Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria, Ctr. de la Coruña km 5.9, 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - Michael Mc Donald
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Mark A Crowe
- School of Veterinary Medicine, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Elena O'Callaghan
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Pat Lonergan
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland.
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12
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Integrating Analysis to Identify Differential circRNAs Involved in Goat Endometrial Receptivity. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24021531. [PMID: 36675045 PMCID: PMC9865150 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24021531] [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: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 12/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Endometrial receptivity is one of the main factors underlying a successful pregnancy, with reports substantiating the fact that suboptimal endometrial receptivity accounts for two-thirds of early implantation event failures. The association between circRNAs and endometrial receptivity in the goat remains unclear. This study aims to identify potential circRNAs and regulatory mechanisms related to goat endometrial receptivity. Therefore, the endometrial samples on day 16 of pregnancy and day 16 of the estrous cycle were analyzed using high-throughput RNA-seq and bioinformatics. The results show that 4666 circRNAs were identified, including 7 downregulated and 11 upregulated differentially expressed circRNAs (DE-circRNAs). Back-splicing and RNase R resistance verified the identified circRNAs. We predicted the competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) regulatory mechanism and potential target genes of DE-circRNAs. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analyses of these predicted target genes suggest that DE-circRNAs were significantly involved in establishing endometrial receptivity. Furthermore, Sanger sequencing, qPCR, correlation analysis and Fluorescence in Situ Hybridization (FISH) show that circ_MYRF derived from the host gene myelin regulatory factor (MYRF) might regulate the expression of interferon stimulating gene 15 (ISG15), thereby promoting the formation of endometrial receptivity. These novel findings may contribute to a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms regulating endometrial receptivity and promoting the maternal recognition of pregnancy (MRP).
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13
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Smith BD, Poliakiwski B, Polanco O, Singleton S, de Melo GD, Muntari M, Oliveira Filho RV, Pohler KG. Decisive points for pregnancy losses in beef cattle. Reprod Fertil Dev 2022; 35:70-83. [PMID: 36592980 DOI: 10.1071/rd22206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Beef cattle producers rely on each of their cows to produce a marketable calf each year to maintain a sustainable operation. Within the first month of gestation, pregnancy failures have been recorded to be upwards of 40-50%. From fertilisation to birth, there are numerous factors contributing to pregnancy failure. From the beginning of gestation oocyte competence is often a large factor impacting fertility as the dam contributes all mRNA for initial embryo development. Other factors contributing to early embryonic infertility include hormonal concentration and heat stress. After the embryo enters the uterus, it becomes critical for the uterus to be receptive to the developing conceptus. The embryo then begins to elongate and secrete interferon-tau to initiate maternal recognition of pregnancy; a requirement to establish and maintain bovine pregnancies. After a pregnancy completes these steps, placentation actively begins around day 22 of pregnancy and lasts until organogenesis. The fetal phase follows the embryonic phase where disease and/or toxins are often the cause of pregnancy failure at this period. However, fetal mortality has been reported to occur in less than 10% of pregnancies. Understanding of the many factors influencing infertility needs to be further investigated to increase pregnancy success in beef cattle.
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Affiliation(s)
- B D Smith
- Department of Animal Science, Pregnancy and Developmental Programming Area of Excellence, Texas A & M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - B Poliakiwski
- Department of Animal Science, Pregnancy and Developmental Programming Area of Excellence, Texas A & M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - O Polanco
- Department of Animal Science, Pregnancy and Developmental Programming Area of Excellence, Texas A & M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - S Singleton
- Department of Animal Science, Pregnancy and Developmental Programming Area of Excellence, Texas A & M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - G D de Melo
- Department of Animal Science, Pregnancy and Developmental Programming Area of Excellence, Texas A & M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - M Muntari
- Department of Animal Science, Pregnancy and Developmental Programming Area of Excellence, Texas A & M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - R V Oliveira Filho
- Department of Animal Science, Pregnancy and Developmental Programming Area of Excellence, Texas A & M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - K G Pohler
- Department of Animal Science, Pregnancy and Developmental Programming Area of Excellence, Texas A & M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
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14
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Embryo-Uterine Cross-Talk: Exploration of the Immunomodulatory Mechanism in Buffalo. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12223138. [PMID: 36428366 PMCID: PMC9686726 DOI: 10.3390/ani12223138] [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: 10/11/2022] [Revised: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 11/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Understanding the molecular cross-talk between the embryo and uterine endometrium is crucial for the improvement of IVF outcomes. The present work was undertaken to investigate the effect of pre-implantation embryo on the expression profile of immune-related genes in uterine epithelial cells (UECs) and PBMCs in buffalo. UECs were isolated from slaughterhouse-derived non-gravid uteri, cultured ex vivo and characterized, and buffalo embryos were produced in vitro from slaughterhouse-derived ovaries. Embryos co-cultured with steroid-treated UECs significantly stimulated (p < 0.05) the relative mRNA abundance of PTGS2, ISG15, OAS1, MX2, IFNAR1 and IFNAR2 in UECs while they significantly suppressed the mRNA expression of NFkβIA, NFkβ2, TNFα and IL1B, with no significant change in TGFβ1 and IL10 in the co-culture of embryos with UECs. In vitro treatment of PBMCs with conditioned media (CM) derived from embryos as well as UEC−embryo co-culture upregulated the mRNA abundance of ISG15, TGFβ1, PTGS2OAS1, MX2 and STAT1 while it downregulated IL17 and TNFα expression. The expression of IFNAR1 and IFNAR2 was elevated in PBMCs cultured in embryo-derived CM, but there was no significant change in PBMCs cultured in UEC−embryo co-culture CM. Thus, it can be concluded that the developing embryo and its secretions modulate the expression of immune responses by inducing an anti-inflammatory action in uterine epithelial cells for acceptance of the semi-allogenic embryo in the uterus to sustain pregnancy in buffalo.
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15
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Ghanem N, Fakruzzaman M, Batawi AH, Kong IK. Post-thaw viability, developmental and molecular deviations in in vitro produced bovine embryos cultured with l-carnitine at different levels of fetal calf serum. Theriogenology 2022; 191:54-66. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2022.07.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Revised: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
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16
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Mathew DJ, Peterson KD, Senn LK, Oliver MA, Ealy AD. Ruminant conceptus-maternal interactions: interferon-tau and beyond. J Anim Sci 2022; 100:6620787. [PMID: 35772752 DOI: 10.1093/jas/skac123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2022] [Accepted: 04/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Embryonic or fetal loss in cattle is associated with problems that occur during oocyte maturation, early embryonic development, conceptus elongation, maternal recognition of pregnancy (MRP), and/or placental attachment and implantation. Many of these problems manifest as inadequate or asynchronous communication between the developing conceptus and endometrium, resulting in pregnancy failure. This review will provide an overview of how various conceptus-endometrial paracrine signaling systems control the fate of early pregnancy in cattle and other ruminants. We begin by summarizing the actions of interferon-tau, the classic MRP signal in ruminates, and then explore how other secretory factors derived from either the conceptus or endometrium influence establishment and maintenance of pregnancy. Insight into how the endometrium responds to male vs. female conceptuses or conceptuses produced by in vitro methods will also be described. Specific focus will be placed on describing how "omic" technologies and other cutting-edge techniques have assisted with identifying novel conceptus and/or endometrial factors and their functions. Recent findings indicate that the endometrial transcriptome and histotroph are altered by conceptus sex, quality, and origin, suggesting that the endometrium is a sensor of conceptus biochemistry. Although the endometrium has a certain level of flexibility in terms of conceptus-maternal interactions, this interplay is not sufficient to retain some pregnancies. However, new information inspires us to learn more and will help develop technologies that mitigate early embryonic loss and reproductive failure in ruminants and other animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel J Mathew
- Department of Animal Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - Katie D Peterson
- Department of Animal Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - L Kirsten Senn
- Department of Animal Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - Mary A Oliver
- Department of Animal and Poultry Sciences, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA
| | - Alan D Ealy
- Department of Animal and Poultry Sciences, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA
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17
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Hughes CHK, Mezera MA, Wiltbank MC, Pate JL. Insights from two independent transcriptomic studies of the bovine corpus luteum during pregnancy. J Anim Sci 2022; 100:6620793. [PMID: 35772758 DOI: 10.1093/jas/skac115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2022] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Several recent studies have used transcriptomics to investigate luteal changes during the maternal recognition of the pregnancy period in ruminants. Although these studies have contributed to our understanding of luteal function during early pregnancy, few attempts have been made to integrate information across these studies and distinguish key luteal transcripts or functions that are repeatably identified across multiple studies. Therefore, in this study, two independent studies of the luteal transcriptome during early pregnancy were combined and compared. In the first study, corpora lutea (CL) from day 20 of pregnancy were compared with CL collected on day 14 of pregnancy, prior to embryonic signaling. The cattle were nonlactating. In the second study, CL from day 20 of pregnancy were compared with CL collected from day 20 cyclic cattle that had been confirmed as not yet undergoing luteal regression. These were lactating cattle. Three methods were used to compare these two datasets, to identify key luteal regulators. In the first method, all transcripts with Benjamini-Hochberg-adjusted P-value (Q value) < 0.05 in both datasets were considered. This yielded 22 transcripts, including several classical interferon-stimulated genes, as well as regulators of transforming growth factor-beta (TGFB) and latent TGFB-binding proteins (LTBP)1 and 2. In the second, less conservative method, all transcripts with P < 0.01 and changed in the same direction in both datasets were considered. This yielded an additional 20 transcripts that were not identified in the first analysis, for a total of 42 common transcripts. These transcripts were regulators of functions such as inflammatory balance and matrix remodeling. In the third method, transcripts with Q < 0.10 were subject to pathway analysis, and common pathways were identified. Retinoic acid signaling and classical interferon signaling pathways were identified with this method. Finally, regulation by interferon tau (IFNT) was investigated. Among the 42 transcripts identified, 32 were regulated by IFNT in cultured luteal cells (Q < 0.05). Among those not regulated by IFNT were LTBP1 and 2, which are TGFB-binding proteins. In summary, common transcripts from two studies of the luteal transcriptome during early pregnancy were combined and shared changes were identified. This not only generated a list of potential key luteal regulators, which were mostly IFNT regulated, but also included transcripts not regulated by IFNT, including LTBP1 and 2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camilla H K Hughes
- Center for Reproductive Biology and Health, Department of Animal Science, Penn State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
| | - Megan A Mezera
- Endocrinology and Reproductive Physiology Program and Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Milo C Wiltbank
- Endocrinology and Reproductive Physiology Program and Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Joy L Pate
- Center for Reproductive Biology and Health, Department of Animal Science, Penn State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
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18
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Amaral TF, Diaza AG, Heredia D, Melo GD, Estrada-Cortés E, Jensen LM, Pohler K, Hansen PJ. Actions of DKK1 on the preimplantation bovine embryo to affect pregnancy establishment, placental function and postnatal phenotype†. Biol Reprod 2022; 107:945-955. [PMID: 35765194 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2022] [Revised: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
One mechanism by which the maternal environment regulates the early embryo is by secretion of cell-signaling molecules. One of these is dickkopf WNT signaling pathway inhibitor 1 (DKK1). Objectives were to A) resolve discrepancies in the literature regarding effects of DKK1 in the bovine embryo on development of trophectoderm (TE) and competence to establish pregnancy after embryo transfer and B) determine whether there are long-term consequences of DKK1 on placental function and postnatal phenotype. Embryos produced in vitro were cultured with vehicle or 100 ng/mL recombinant human DKK1 from day 5 to 7.5 of development (i.e. the morula and blastocyst stages of development). DKK1 increased the number of cells positive for the TE marker CDX2 at day 7.5 of development while having no effect on numbers of cells positive for the inner cell mass marker SOX2. There was no effect of DKK1 on pregnancy or calving rate after transfer of blastocysts produced with Y-sorted semen to either lactating dairy cows or suckling beef cows. Treatment with DKK1 at the morula-to-blastocyst stages programmed placental function, as measured by an effect of DKK1 on plasma concentrations of pregnancy associated glycoproteins and placental lactogen at day 160 of gestation (although not on other days examined). DKK1 treatment also resulted in calves that were heavier at birth as compared to calves derived from control embryos. After birth, DKK1 calves grew slower than controls. Results confirm that DKK1 alters the developmental program of the bovine embryo to affect both prenatal and postnatal phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thiago F Amaral
- Department of Animal Sciences, Donald Henry Barron Reproductive and Perinatal Biology Research Program, and the Genetics Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville FL, USA.,Current position: Zoetis, Kalamazoo, MI, USA
| | - Angela Gonella Diaza
- North Florida Research and Education Center, University of Florida, Marianna, FL, USA
| | - Daniella Heredia
- North Florida Research and Education Center, University of Florida, Marianna, FL, USA
| | - Gabriela D Melo
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77845, USA
| | - Eliab Estrada-Cortés
- Department of Animal Sciences, Donald Henry Barron Reproductive and Perinatal Biology Research Program, and the Genetics Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville FL, USA.,Campo Experimental Centro Altos de Jalisco, Instituto Nacional de Investigaciones Forestales Agrícolas y Pecuarias, Tepatitlán de Morelos, Jalisco, México
| | - Laura M Jensen
- Department of Animal Sciences, Donald Henry Barron Reproductive and Perinatal Biology Research Program, and the Genetics Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville FL, USA
| | - Ky Pohler
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77845, USA
| | - Peter J Hansen
- Department of Animal Sciences, Donald Henry Barron Reproductive and Perinatal Biology Research Program, and the Genetics Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville FL, USA
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19
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Pillai VV, Kei TG, Gurung S, Das M, Siqueira LGB, Cheong SH, Hansen PJ, Selvaraj V. RhoA/ROCK signaling antagonizes bovine trophoblast stem cell self-renewal and regulates preimplantation embryo size and differentiation. Development 2022; 149:274909. [DOI: 10.1242/dev.200115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT
Exponential proliferation of trophoblast stem cells (TSC) is crucial in Ruminantia to maximize numerical access to caruncles, the restricted uterine sites that permit implantation. When translating systems biology of the undifferentiated bovine trophectoderm, we uncovered that inhibition of RhoA/Rock promoted self-renewing proliferation and substantially increased blastocyst size. Analysis of transcripts suppressed by Rock inhibition revealed transforming growth factor β1 (TGFβ1) as a primary upstream effector. TGFβ1 treatment induced changes consistent with differentiation in bTSCs, a response that could be replicated by induced expression of the bovine ROCK2 transgene. Rocki could partially antagonize TGFβ1 effects, and TGFβ receptor inhibition promoted proliferation identical to Rocki, indicating an all-encompassing upstream regulation. Morphological differentiation included formation of binucleate cells and infrequent multinucleate syncytia, features we also localize in the in vivo bovine placenta. Collectively, we demonstrate a central role for TGFβ1, RhoA and Rock in inducing bTSC differentiation, attenuation of which is sufficient to sustain self-renewal and proliferation linked to blastocyst size and preimplantation development. Unraveling these mechanisms augments evolutionary/comparative physiology of the trophoblast cell lineage and placental development in eutherians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viju Vijayan Pillai
- Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Tiffany G. Kei
- Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Shailesh Gurung
- Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Moubani Das
- Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Luiz G. B. Siqueira
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
- Embrapa Gado de Leite, Juiz de Fora, MG 36038-330, Brazil
| | - Soon Hon Cheong
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Peter J. Hansen
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Vimal Selvaraj
- Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
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20
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Simintiras CA, Drum JN, Liu H, Sofia Ortega M, Spencer TE. Uterine lumen fluid is metabolically semi-autonomous. Commun Biol 2022; 5:191. [PMID: 35233029 PMCID: PMC8888695 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-022-03134-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Uterine lumen fluid (ULF) is central to successful pregnancy establishment and maintenance, and impacts offspring wellbeing into adulthood. The current dogma is that ULF composition is primarily governed by endometrial glandular epithelial cell secretions and influenced by progesterone. To investigate the hypothesis that ULF is metabolically semi-autonomous, ULF was obtained from cyclic heifers, and aliquots incubated for various durations prior to analysis by untargeted semi-quantitative metabolomic profiling. Metabolite flux was observed in these ULF isolates, supporting the idea that the biochemical makeup of ULF is semi-autonomously dynamic due to enzyme activities. Subsequent integrative analyses of these, and existing, data predict the specific reactions underpinning this phenomenon. These findings enhance our understanding of the mechanisms leading to pregnancy establishment, with implications for improving fertility and pregnancy outcomes in domestic animals as well as women. Uterine lumen fluid (ULF) is metabolically semi-autonomous in that biochemical reactions are active within ULF independently of external parameters. This finding enhances the understanding of the mechanisms leading to pregnancy establishment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jessica N Drum
- Division of Animal Science, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65211, USA
| | - Hongyu Liu
- Division of Animal Science, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65211, USA
| | - M Sofia Ortega
- Division of Animal Science, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65211, USA
| | - Thomas E Spencer
- Division of Animal Science, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65211, USA. .,Division of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Women's Health, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65201, USA.
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21
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Chaney HL, Grose LF, LaBarbara JM, Sirk AW, Blancke AM, Sánchez JM, Passaro C, Lonergan P, Mathew DJ. Galectin-1 Confers Endometrial Gene Expression and Protein Related to Maternal-Conceptus Immune Tolerance in Cattle. Biol Reprod 2021; 106:487-502. [PMID: 34792096 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioab215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2021] [Revised: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Conceptus secretory factors include galectins, a family of carbohydrate binding proteins that elicit cell adhesion and immune suppression by interacting with intracellular and extracellular glycans. In rodents, galectin-1 (LGALS1) promotes maternal-fetal immune tolerance in the decidua through expansion of tolerogenic CD11c+ dendritic cells, increased anti-inflammatory IL-10, and activation of FOXP3+ regulatory T cells (Treg). This study characterized galectin expression in early ruminant conceptuses and endometrium. We also tested the effect of recombinant bovine LGALS1 (rbLGALS1) and progesterone (P4) on endometrial expression of genes and protein related to maternal-fetal immune tolerance in cattle. Elongating bovine and ovine conceptuses expressed several galectins, particularly, LGALS1, LGALS3 and LGALS8. Within bovine endometrium, expression of LGALS3, LGALS7 and LGALS9 was greater on Day 16 of pregnancy compared to the estrous cycle. Within ovine endometrium, LGALS7 was greater during pregnancy compared to the estrous cycle and endometrium of pregnant sheep tended to have greater LGALS9 and LGALS15. Expression of endometrial LGALS4 was less during pregnancy in sheep. Treating bovine endometrium with rbLGALS1 increased endometrial expression of CD11c, IL-10 and FOXP3, within 24 h. Specifically, within caruncular endometrium, both rbLGALS1 and P4 increased FOXP3, suggesting that both ligands may promote Treg expansion. Using IHC, FOXP3+ cells with a leukocyte phenotype were localized to the bovine uterine stratum compactum near the uterine surface and increased in response to rbLGALS1. We hypothesize that galectins have important functions during establishment of pregnancy in ruminants and bovine conceptus LGALS1 and luteal P4 confer mechanisms of maternal-conceptus immune tolerance in cattle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather L Chaney
- Division of Animal and Nutritional Sciences, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Lindsay F Grose
- Division of Animal and Nutritional Sciences, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Jeanna M LaBarbara
- Division of Animal and Nutritional Sciences, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Adam W Sirk
- Division of Animal and Nutritional Sciences, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Alyssa M Blancke
- Division of Animal and Nutritional Sciences, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Jose M Sánchez
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Claudia Passaro
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Patrick Lonergan
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Daniel J Mathew
- Department of Animal Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, USA
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22
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Fiorenza MF, Amaral CDS, da Anunciação ARDA, Portela VVM, Marey MA, Miyamoto A, Antoniazzi AQ. Possible impact of neutrophils on immune responses during early pregnancy in ruminants. Anim Reprod 2021; 18:e20210048. [PMID: 34745357 PMCID: PMC8562715 DOI: 10.1590/1984-3143-ar2021-0048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The interaction between early embryo and maternal immune system for the establishment of pregnancy is the focus of several studies; however, it remains unclear. The maternal immune response needs to keep a balance between avoiding any damage to the conceptus and maintaining its function in combating microbes as well. When conceptus-maternal crosstalk cannot achieve this balance, pregnancy losses might occur. Intercommunication between mother and conceptus is fundamental during early pregnancy to dictate the outcome of pregnancy. In ruminants, the embryo reacts with the maternal system mainly via interferon tau (IFNT) release. IFNT can act locally on the embryo and endometrial cells and systemically in several tissues and cells to regulate their response via the expression of interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs). Also, IFNT can induce the expression of inflammatory-related genes in immune cells. Day 7 embryo induces a shift in the maternal immune response towards anti-inflammatory (Th2) immune responses. During maternal recognition of pregnancy, peripheral mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and polymorphonuclear cells (PMNs) express markers that configure an anti-inflammatory response. However, PMNs response is more sensitive to the effects of IFNT. PMNs are more likely to express interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs), transforming growth factor-beta (TGFB), interleukin 10 (IL10), and arginase-1 (ARG1), configuring one of the most rapid immune responses to early pregnancy. This review focus on the local and peripheral immune responses during early pregnancy in ruminants, mainly the PMNs function in the immune system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariani Farias Fiorenza
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Santa Maria, RS, Brasil
| | - Carolina Dos Santos Amaral
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Santa Maria, RS, Brasil
| | | | | | - Mohammed Ali Marey
- Global Agromedicine Research Center, Obihiro University of Agricultural and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Japan.,Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Damanhour University, Damanhour, Egypt
| | - Akio Miyamoto
- Global Agromedicine Research Center, Obihiro University of Agricultural and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Japan
| | - Alfredo Quites Antoniazzi
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Santa Maria, RS, Brasil
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23
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Cao N, Cao L, Gao M, Wang H, Zhang L, Yang L. Changes in mRNA and protein levels of gonadotropin releasing hormone and receptor in ovine thymus, lymph node, spleen, and liver during early pregnancy. Domest Anim Endocrinol 2021; 76:106607. [PMID: 33582417 DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2021.106607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2020] [Revised: 01/17/2021] [Accepted: 01/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
There exists maternal immunological modification in maternal immune organs during early pregnancy in mammals. Gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) is widely distributed in vertebrate tissues, including immune organs. However, it is unclear that early pregnancy induces expression of GnRH and GnRH receptor (GnRHR) in ovine immune organs. The objective of this study was to explore the expression of GnRH and GnRHR in main immune organs (thymus, lymph node, spleen, and liver) during early pregnancy in sheep. Ovine thymus, lymph node, spleen and liver were sampled at day 16 of estrous cycle, and days 13, 16, and 25 of pregnancy. The expression of GnRH and GnRHR was detected through real-time quantitative PCR, Western blot and immunohistochemistry analysis. The results indicated that early pregnancy induced upregulation of mRNA and protein levels of GnRH and GnRHR in the maternal lymph node, spleen and liver, and mRNA and protein of GnRH in the maternal thymus, but mRNA and protein of GnRHR decreased in the maternal thymus during early pregnancy. In summary, the mRNA and protein levels of GnRH and GnRHR were changed in maternal thymus, lymph node, spleen and liver in a tissue specific manner during early pregnancy in sheep.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Cao
- School of Life Sciences and Food Engineering, Hebei University of Engineering, Handan 056038, China
| | - L Cao
- School of Life Sciences and Food Engineering, Hebei University of Engineering, Handan 056038, China
| | - M Gao
- School of Life Sciences and Food Engineering, Hebei University of Engineering, Handan 056038, China
| | - H Wang
- School of Life Sciences and Food Engineering, Hebei University of Engineering, Handan 056038, China
| | - L Zhang
- School of Life Sciences and Food Engineering, Hebei University of Engineering, Handan 056038, China
| | - L Yang
- School of Life Sciences and Food Engineering, Hebei University of Engineering, Handan 056038, China.
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24
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Motta IG, Rocha CC, Bisinotto DZ, Melo GD, Júnior GAA, Nishimura TK, Diaza AMG, Castro T, Ginther OJ, Pugliesi G. Effects of estradiol treatments on PGF 2α release in beef heifers submitted to estrous resynchronization 14 days after timed-AI. Domest Anim Endocrinol 2021; 76:106625. [PMID: 33878540 DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2021.106625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Revised: 03/10/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
The effects of 17β-estradiol (E2) or estradiol benzoate (EB) on PGF2α release were studied in bred-non-pregnant and pregnant Nelore beef heifers. The day of timed artificial insemination (TAI) was designated day 0 (D0), and a single treatment was given on D14. All heifers also received an intravaginal P4 device on D14, and were randomly assigned to three groups: Control (C, P4 device only, n = 12); E2 (1 mg E2 + 9 mg P4, n = 10); or EB (1 mg, n = 10). Blood samples were collected hourly for 8 hours after treatment (Hours 0-8) to measure plasma concentrations (pg/mL) of a PGF2α metabolite (PGFM). The P4 device was removed on D22 and pregnancy was diagnosed on D28. Pregnancy rate was not different among groups (C, n = 7/12; E2, n = 5/10; EB, n = 5/10). More (P < 0.05) heifers had a CV-identified prominent PGFM pulse (peak of > 100 pg/mL) in E2 group (6/10) than in EB (1/10) and C (0/12) groups. Hourly concentration of PGFM for Hours 0 to 8 showed significant effects of group and hour and an interaction of group by hour but did not show an interaction of group or hour with pregnancy status. In preliminary post-hoc analyses, PGFM concentrations during Hours 0 to 8 and pulse characteristics were analyzed within each pregnancy status. For the non-pregnant heifers, a group-by-hour interaction was detected tentatively indicating an increase (P < 0.005) in PGFM concentrations in E2 group from Hours 4 to 6 and in EB group at Hours 5 and 6. Maximum PGFM concentration during Hours 0 to 8 did not differ (P > 0.1) between E2 (124 ± 23) and EB (110 ± 30) groups, but was greater (P < 0.05) in each group than in C (32 ± 3). Furthermore, PGFM concentrations of pulses at the peak, amplitude, and area under pulse curve (pg/mL/h) were greater (P < 0.05) in E2 group than in C group whereas the EB group did not differ (P > 0.1) from the other groups. For pregnant heifers, no effects of group, hour, or their interaction were detected in PGFM concentrations during the hourly sessions, except that maximum PGFM concentration was greater (P < 0.05) in E2 than in EB and C groups. In addition, the number of prominent pulses was greater in E2 group than in Control or EB groups. In conclusion, PGFM increased earlier and in greater concentration combined for bred-non-pregnant and pregnant heifers treated 14 days after TAI with 1 mg E2 plus 9 mg P4 than with 1 mg EB. Tentatively, a positive effect for each of E2 and EB on PGFM concentrations was attenuated in pregnant heifers.
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Affiliation(s)
- I G Motta
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - C C Rocha
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil; North Florida Research and Education Center, University of Florida, FL, USA
| | - D Z Bisinotto
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - G D Melo
- Department of Animal Science - Texas A&M University of Texas, TX, USA
| | - G A A Júnior
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - T K Nishimura
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - A M G Diaza
- North Florida Research and Education Center, University of Florida, FL, USA
| | - T Castro
- Department of Pathobiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, MDN, Wisconsin
| | - O J Ginther
- Department of Pathobiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, MDN, Wisconsin
| | - G Pugliesi
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil.
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25
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Carrillo-González DF, Hernández-Herrera DY, Maldonado-Estrada JG. The role of L-carnitine in bovine embryo metabolism. A review of the effect of supplementation with a metabolic modulator on in vitro embryo production. Anim Biotechnol 2021; 34:413-423. [PMID: 34154517 DOI: 10.1080/10495398.2021.1938593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Early embryo development is driven first by the maternal RNAs and proteins accumulated during the oocyte's cytoplasmic maturation and then after the embryo genome activation. In mammalian cells, ATP generation occurs via oxidative pathways or by glycolysis, whereas in embryonic stem cells, the consumption of glucose, pyruvate, lipids, and amino acids results in ATP synthesis. Although the bovine embryo has energy reserves in glycogen and lipids, the glycogen concentration is deficient. Conversely, lipids represent the most abundant energy reservoir of bovine embryos, where lipid droplets-containing triacylglycerols are the main fatty acid stores. Oocytes of many mammalian species contain comparatively high amounts of lipids stored as droplets in the ooplasm. L-carnitine has been described as a cofactor that facilitates the mobilization of fatty acids present in the oocyte's cytoplasm into the mitochondria to facilitate β-oxidation processes. However, the L-carnitine effects by addition to media in the in vitro produced embryos on the quality are highly disputed and contradictory by different researchers. This review's objective was to explore the effect that the addition of L-carnitine on culture media could have on the overall bovine embryo production in vitro, from the oocyte metabolism to the modulation of gene expression in the developing embryos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diego F Carrillo-González
- OHVRI Research Group, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia.,Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, School of Zootechny, University of Sucre, Sincelejo, Colombia
| | | | - Juan G Maldonado-Estrada
- OHVRI Research Group, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia
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26
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Basavaraja R, Drum JN, Sapuleni J, Bibi L, Friedlander G, Kumar S, Sartori R, Meidan R. Downregulated luteolytic pathways in the transcriptome of early pregnancy bovine corpus luteum are mimicked by interferon-tau in vitro. BMC Genomics 2021; 22:452. [PMID: 34134617 PMCID: PMC8207607 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-021-07747-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Accepted: 05/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Maintenance of the corpus luteum (CL) beyond the time of luteolysis is essential for establishing pregnancy. Identifying the distinct features of early pregnancy CL remains unresolved, hence we analyzed here the transcriptome of CL on day 18 pregnant (P) and non-pregnant (NP) cows using RNA-Seq. CL of P cows expressed ISGs, verifying exposure to the pregnancy recognition signal, interferon-tau (IFNT), whereas the CL of NP cows had elevated luteal progesterone levels, implying that luteolysis had not yet commenced. Results The DEGs, IPA, and metascape canonical pathways, along with GSEA analysis, differed markedly in the CL of P cows from those of NP cows, at the same day of the cycle. Both metascape and IPA identified similar significantly enriched pathways such as interferon alpha/beta, sonic hedgehog pathway, TNFA, EDN1, TGFB1, and PDGF. However, type-1 interferon and sonic hedgehog pathways were positively enriched whereas most of the enriched pathways were downregulated in the P compared to NP samples. Thirty-four % of these pathways are known to be elevated by PGF2A during luteolysis. Notably, selective DEGs in luteinized granulosa cells were modulated by IFNT in vitro in a similar manner to their regulation in the CL of P cows. Conclusion This study unraveled the unique transcriptomic signature of the IFNT-exposed, early pregnancy CL, highlighting the abundance of downregulated pathways known to be otherwise induced during luteolysis. These and IFNT-regulated in vitro pregnancy-specific DEGs suggest that IFNT contributes to the characteristics and maintenance of early pregnancy CL. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12864-021-07747-3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raghavendra Basavaraja
- Department of Animal Sciences, The Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, 7610001, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Jessica N Drum
- Department of Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Piracicaba, Brazil
| | - Jackson Sapuleni
- Department of Animal Sciences, The Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, 7610001, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Lonice Bibi
- Department of Animal Sciences, The Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, 7610001, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Gilgi Friedlander
- The Mantoux Bioinformatics institute of the Nancy and Stephen Grand Israel National Center for Personalized Medicine, Weizmann Institute of Science, Weizmann Institute of Science, 7610001, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Sai Kumar
- Department of Animal Sciences, The Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, 7610001, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Roberto Sartori
- Department of Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Piracicaba, Brazil
| | - Rina Meidan
- Department of Animal Sciences, The Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, 7610001, Rehovot, Israel.
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27
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Rabaglino MB, O’Doherty A, Bojsen-Møller Secher J, Lonergan P, Hyttel P, Fair T, Kadarmideen HN. Application of multi-omics data integration and machine learning approaches to identify epigenetic and transcriptomic differences between in vitro and in vivo produced bovine embryos. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0252096. [PMID: 34029343 PMCID: PMC8143403 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0252096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Pregnancy rates for in vitro produced (IVP) embryos are usually lower than for embryos produced in vivo after ovarian superovulation (MOET). This is potentially due to alterations in their trophectoderm (TE), the outermost layer in physical contact with the maternal endometrium. The main objective was to apply a multi-omics data integration approach to identify both temporally differentially expressed and differentially methylated genes (DEG and DMG), between IVP and MOET embryos, that could impact TE function. To start, four and five published transcriptomic and epigenomic datasets, respectively, were processed for data integration. Second, DEG from day 7 to days 13 and 16 and DMG from day 7 to day 17 were determined in the TE from IVP vs. MOET embryos. Third, genes that were both DE and DM were subjected to hierarchical clustering and functional enrichment analysis. Finally, findings were validated through a machine learning approach with two additional datasets from day 15 embryos. There were 1535 DEG and 6360 DMG, with 490 overlapped genes, whose expression profiles at days 13 and 16 resulted in three main clusters. Cluster 1 (188) and Cluster 2 (191) genes were down-regulated at day 13 or day 16, respectively, while Cluster 3 genes (111) were up-regulated at both days, in IVP embryos compared to MOET embryos. The top enriched terms were the KEGG pathway "focal adhesion" in Cluster 1 (FDR = 0.003), and the cellular component: "extracellular exosome" in Cluster 2 (FDR<0.0001), also enriched in Cluster 1 (FDR = 0.04). According to the machine learning approach, genes in Cluster 1 showed a similar expression pattern between IVP and less developed (short) MOET conceptuses; and between MOET and DKK1-treated (advanced) IVP conceptuses. In conclusion, these results suggest that early conceptuses derived from IVP embryos exhibit epigenomic and transcriptomic changes that later affect its elongation and focal adhesion, impairing post-transfer survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria B. Rabaglino
- Quantitative Genetics, Bioinformatics and Computational Biology Group, Department of Applied Mathematics and Computer Science, Technical University of Denmark, Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Alan O’Doherty
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Jan Bojsen-Møller Secher
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - Patrick Lonergan
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Poul Hyttel
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - Trudee Fair
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Haja N. Kadarmideen
- Quantitative Genetics, Bioinformatics and Computational Biology Group, Department of Applied Mathematics and Computer Science, Technical University of Denmark, Lyngby, Denmark
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28
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Luteogenesis and Embryo Implantation Are Enhanced by Exogenous hCG in Goats Subjected to an Out-of-Season Fixed-Time Artificial Insemination Protocol. BIOLOGY 2021; 10:biology10050429. [PMID: 34065974 PMCID: PMC8150804 DOI: 10.3390/biology10050429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2021] [Revised: 05/01/2021] [Accepted: 05/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate the possible effect of two doses of hCG (100 and 300 IU) applied at two different times (7 and 14 d) after a fixed-time artificial insemination protocol (FTAI) upon some variables involved in the embryonic implantation rate in goats during the natural deep anestrous season (April, 25° north). The experimental units considered crossbred, multiparous, anovulatory goats (n = 69, Alpine, Saanen, Nubian x Criollo), with average body weight (43.6 ± 5.7 kg) and body condition score (1.86 ± 0.28 units) located in northern-semiarid Mexico (25° N, 103° W). Once the goat's anestrus status was confirmed, goats were subjected to an estrus induction protocol. Upon estrus induction confirmation, goats (n = 61) were subjected to a FTAI procedure. Immediately after the FTAI, the goats were randomly distributed to five experimental groups: (1). G100-7 (n = 13) 100 IU, hCG 7 d post-FTAI, (2). G100-14 (n = 12) 100 IU hCG, 14 d post-FTAI, (3). G300-7 (n = 12) 300 IU, hCG, 7 d post-FTAI, (4). G300-14 (n = 12) 300 IU hCG 14 d post-FTAI, and (5). Control group, CONT (n = 12) 0.5 mL saline, 7 and 14 d post-FTAI. The response variables conception rate (39.36 ± 0.23), fertility rate (27.96%), prolificacy rate (1.1 ± 0.29 kids), ovulation rate (0.74 ± 0.20 corpus luteum) corpus luteum diameter (10.15 ± 0.59 mm), embryo number (1.58 ± 0.20), and embryo implantation rate (48.96%), did not differ between treatments. However, while the variables fecundity rate (67%), embryo efficiency index-1 (33.99 ± 0.20%), and embryo efficiency index-2 (27.94 ± 0.30%) were favored by the G300-14 treatment, the corpus luteum area was favored (p < 0.05) by both G300-7 (113.30 ± 0.19 mm2) and G300-14 (103.04 ± 0.17 mm2). Such reproductive strategy emerges as an interesting approach, not only to enhance the out-of-season reproductive outcomes, but also to boost one of the main rulers defining the global reproductive efficiency of a heard, namely, the embryo implantation efficiency.
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29
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Simintiras CA, Sánchez JM, McDonald M, O'Callaghan E, Aburima AA, Lonergan P. Conceptus metabolomic profiling reveals stage-specific phenotypes leading up to pregnancy recognition in cattle†. Biol Reprod 2021; 104:1022-1033. [PMID: 33590828 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioab021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2020] [Revised: 01/16/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Reproductive efficiency in livestock is a major driver of sustainable food production. The poorly understood process of ruminant conceptus elongation (a) prerequisites maternal pregnancy recognition, (b) is essential to successful pregnancy establishment, and (c) coincides with a period of significant conceptus mortality. Conceptuses at five key developmental stages between Days 8-16 were recovered and cultured in vitro for 6 h prior to conditioned media analysis by untargeted ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectroscopy. This global temporal biochemical interrogation of the ex situ bovine conceptus unearths two antithetical stage-specific metabolic phenotypes during tubular (metabolically retentive) vs. filamentous (secretory) development. Moreover, the retentive conceptus phenotype on Day 14 coincides with an established period of elevated metabolic density in the uterine fluid of heifers with high systemic progesterone-a model of accelerated conceptus elongation. These data, combined, suggest a metabolic mechanism underpinning conceptus elongation, thereby enhancing our understanding of the biochemical reciprocity of maternal-conceptus communication, prior to maternal pregnancy recognition.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - José M Sánchez
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Michael McDonald
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Elena O'Callaghan
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Ahmed A Aburima
- Centre for Atherothrombotic and Metabolic Research, Hull York Medical School, Kingston-Upon-Hull, UK
| | - Patrick Lonergan
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
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30
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D Occhio MJ, Campanile G, Baruselli PS. Transforming growth factor-β superfamily and interferon-τ in ovarian function and embryo development in female cattle: review of biology and application. Reprod Fertil Dev 2021; 32:539-552. [PMID: 32024582 DOI: 10.1071/rd19123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2019] [Accepted: 09/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Survival of the embryo and establishment of a pregnancy is a critical period in the reproductive function of female cattle. This review examines how the transforming growth factor-β (TGFB) superfamily (i.e. bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) 15, growth differentiation factor (GDF) 9, anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH)) and interferon-τ (IFNT) affect ovarian function and embryo development. The oocyte in a primary follicle secretes BMP15 and GDF9, which, together, organise the surrounding granulosa and theca cells into the oocyte-cumulus-follicle complex. At the same time, the granulosa secretes AMH, which affects the oocyte. This autocrine-paracrine dialogue between the oocyte and somatic cells continues throughout follicle development and is fundamental in establishing the fertilisation potential and embryo developmental competency of oocytes. The early bovine embryo secretes IFNT, which acts at the uterine endometrium, corpus luteum and blood leucocytes. IFNT is involved in the maternal recognition of pregnancy and immunomodulation to prevent rejection of the embryo, and supports progesterone secretion. Manipulation of BMP15, GDF9, AMH and IFNT in both invivo and invitro studies has confirmed their importance in reproductive function in female cattle. This review makes the case that a deeper understanding of the biology of BMP15, GDF9, AMH and IFNT will lead to new strategies to increase embryo survival and improve fertility in cattle. The enhancement of oocyte quality, early embryo development and implantation is considered necessary for the next step change in the efficiency of natural and assisted reproduction in cattle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J D Occhio
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, 410 Werombi Road, Camden, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Giuseppe Campanile
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, V. F. Delpino, 1 80137 Naples, Italy
| | - Pietro S Baruselli
- Department of Animal Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Zootecnia, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, CEP 05508-270 Brazil; and Corresponding author.
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Chaney HL, Grose LF, Charpigny G, Behura SK, Sheldon IM, Cronin JG, Lonergan P, Spencer TE, Mathew DJ. Conceptus-induced, interferon tau-dependent gene expression in bovine endometrial epithelial and stromal cells†. Biol Reprod 2020; 104:669-683. [PMID: 33330929 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioaa226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2020] [Revised: 11/13/2020] [Accepted: 12/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Bovine endometrium consists of epithelial and stromal cells that respond to conceptus interferon tau (IFNT), the maternal recognition of pregnancy (MRP) signal, by increasing expression of IFN-stimulated genes (ISGs). Endometrial epithelial and stromal-cell-specific ISGs are largely unknown but hypothesized to have essential functions during pregnancy establishment. Bovine endometrial epithelial cells were cultured in inserts above stromal fibroblast (SF) cells for 6 h in medium alone or with IFNT. The epithelial and SF transcriptomic response was analyzed separately using RNA sequencing and compared to a list of 369 DEGs recently identified in intact bovine endometrium in response to elongating bovine conceptuses and IFNT. Bovine endometrial epithelial and SF shared 223 and 70 DEGs in common with the list of 369 endometrial DEGs. Well-known ISGs identified in the epithelial and SF were ISG15, MX1, MX2, and OAS2. DEGs identified in the epithelial but not SF included a number of IRF molecules (IRF1, IRF2, IRF3, and IRF8), mitochondria SLC transporters (SLC25A19, SLC25A28, and SLC25A30), and a ghrelin receptor. Expression of ZC3HAV1, an anti-retroviral gene, increased specifically within the SF. Gene ontology analysis identified the type I IFN signaling pathway and activation of nuclear factor kappa B transcription factors as biological processes associated with the epithelial cell DEGs. This study has identified biologically relevant IFNT-stimulated genes within specific endometrial cell types. The findings provide critical information regarding the effects of conceptus IFNT on specific endometrial compartments during early developmental processes in cattle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather L Chaney
- Division of Animal and Nutritional Sciences, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Lindsay F Grose
- Division of Animal and Nutritional Sciences, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Gilles Charpigny
- INRA, Biologie du Développement et Reproduction, Jouy en Josas, France
| | - Susanta K Behura
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - I Martin Sheldon
- Swansea University Medical School, Swansea University, Swansea, UK
| | - James G Cronin
- Swansea University Medical School, Swansea University, Swansea, UK
| | - Patrick Lonergan
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Thomas E Spencer
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Daniel J Mathew
- Department of Animal Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, USA
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32
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Ott TL. An interview with Dr Fuller Warren Bazer. Biol Reprod 2020; 104:248-251. [PMID: 33274359 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioaa204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Troy L Ott
- Department of Animal Science, Penn State University, University Park, PA, USA
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Susilowati S, Triana IN, Sardjito T, Suprayogi TW, Wurlina W, Mustofa I. Effect of Simmental bull seminal plasma protein in egg yolk-citrate extender on Kacang buck semen fertility. Cryobiology 2020; 97:20-27. [PMID: 33121627 DOI: 10.1016/j.cryobiol.2020.10.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2020] [Revised: 09/15/2020] [Accepted: 10/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The genetic resources of Indonesia's indigenous Kacang goat require preservation. Artificial insemination is expected to accelerate population increases and preserve genetic resources simultaneously. The present study was the maiden attempt for cryopreservation of Kacang buck sperm. The objectives of this study were to determine whether the supplementation of superior Simmental bull seminal plasma protein in egg yolk-citrate extender could improve the quality of post-thawed Kacang buck sperm, increase conceptions rates, and improve kidding rates. Buck semen was diluted without supplementation (T0) and with supplementation of 2.5 mg (T1) and 5 mg (T2) of Simmental bull seminal plasma protein per mL egg yolk-citrate extender. Extended semen was packed in 0.25 mL straw as cryopreserved frozen semen. Post-thawed semen samples were evaluated for viability, motility, intact plasma membranes, malondialdehyde level, and DNA fragmentation. Estrus was synchronized for sixty Kacang does, which were divided randomly into three groups and inseminated using post-thawed semen. The progesterone serum concentration of the does was measured 7 and 22 days post-insemination to detect ovulation and conception. Pregnancy was confirmed using abdominal palpation at 43 days post-insemination and by observing birth. The T1 group showed the highest (P < 0.05) post-thawed viability, motility, and intact plasma membrane. Conception, pregnancy and kidding rates were also higher in T1 than other treatment groups. In conclusion, the 2.5 mg Simmental bull seminal plasma protein supplementation per mL egg yolk-citrate extender provided the best seminal quality and fertility of post-thawed Kacang buck semen.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Trilas Sardjito
- Laboratory of Veterinary Artificial Insemination, Indonesia.
| | | | - Wurlina Wurlina
- Laboratory of Veterinary Infertility and Sterility, Indonesia.
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Vitorino Carvalho A, Eozenou C, Richard C, Forde N, Healey GD, Giraud-Delville C, Mansouri-Attia N, Lonergan P, Sheldon IM, Sandra O. Bovine scavenger receptor class A (SR-A) exhibit specific patterns of regulation in the endometrium during the oestrous cycle and early pregnancy. Reprod Fertil Dev 2020; 31:1078-1090. [PMID: 30922439 DOI: 10.1071/rd18411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2018] [Accepted: 01/14/2019] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
In mammals, tight regulation of maternal endometrial function is critical for pregnancy success. In bovine species, endometrial expression of members of the scavenger receptor class A (SR-A) has been listed in high-throughput analyses, but very little is known about the involvement of these immune factors during implantation in mammals. To provide first insights into the contribution of SR-A to endometrial physiology, we analysed the expression and regulation of all members of SR-A (SR-A1, SR-A3-SR-A6) during the oestrous cycle and early pregnancy in cattle. Levels of SR-A1 were increased on Day 20 of pregnancy, whereas SR-A3 levels were increased on Day 13 of the oestrous cycle and of the pregnancy. Although SR-A4 levels were reduced on Day 20 of the oestrous cycle, they remained high in pregnant animals. SR-A5 levels increased by Day 13 of the oestrous cycle and decreased on Day 20, but remained high in pregnant animals. Interferon-τ does not affect SR-A gene expression, whereas progesterone regulates the expression of the SR-A3 and SR-A5 transcripts. Endometrial SR-A3 appeared significantly higher in cows carrying invitro-produced embryos than in AI cows. Our data suggest that members of the SR-A family are involved in endometrial remodelling and regulation of endometrial gland physiology, both processes being critical for implantation in mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Vitorino Carvalho
- UMR BDR, INRA, ENVA, Université Paris Saclay, 78350, Jouy en Josas, France; and Present address: BOA, INRA, Université de Tours, 37380 Nouzilly, France; and Corresponding author.
| | - C Eozenou
- UMR BDR, INRA, ENVA, Université Paris Saclay, 78350, Jouy en Josas, France; and Present address: Human Developmental Genetics, Institut Pasteur, Paris, 75724, France
| | - C Richard
- UMR BDR, INRA, ENVA, Université Paris Saclay, 78350, Jouy en Josas, France
| | - N Forde
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - G D Healey
- Institute of Life Science, Swansea University Medical School, Swansea University, Singleton Park, Swansea, SA2 8PP, UK
| | - C Giraud-Delville
- UMR BDR, INRA, ENVA, Université Paris Saclay, 78350, Jouy en Josas, France
| | - N Mansouri-Attia
- UMR BDR, INRA, ENVA, Université Paris Saclay, 78350, Jouy en Josas, France; and Present address: Braverman IVF and Reproductive Immunology, 888 Park Avenue, New York City, NY 10075, USA
| | - P Lonergan
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - I M Sheldon
- Institute of Life Science, Swansea University Medical School, Swansea University, Singleton Park, Swansea, SA2 8PP, UK
| | - O Sandra
- UMR BDR, INRA, ENVA, Université Paris Saclay, 78350, Jouy en Josas, France
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Mezera MA, Hamm CS, Gamarra CA, Gennari RS, Prata AB, Sartori R, Wiltbank MC. Profiles of prostaglandin F2α metabolite in dairy cattle during luteal regression and pregnancy: implications for corpus luteum maintenance†. Biol Reprod 2020; 101:76-90. [PMID: 31066903 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioz074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2019] [Revised: 04/07/2019] [Accepted: 04/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Mechanisms of bovine corpus luteum (CL) maintenance during the second month of pregnancy have not been adequately investigated, despite significant reproductive losses. In the first month, interferon-tau is believed to suppress oxytocin-stimulated prostaglandin F2α (PGF) production, yet there are conflicting reports of circulating PGF metabolite (PGFM). In this study, characterization of PGFM and P4 occurred through continuous bihourly blood sampling in cows undergoing CL regression (day 18-21, n = 5), and during the first (day 18-21, n = 5) and second month (day 47-61; n = 16) of pregnancy. Cattle in the second month were assigned to control (n = 8) or oxytocin treatment (n = 8; three pulses to mimic luteolysis) to evaluate if oxytocin receptors were active. All cows but one (which had elevated PGFM prior to oxytocin treatment) maintained the pregnancy. Basal PGFM concentrations were low (11.6 ± 0.7 pg/mL) in the first month but increased 2.54-fold in the second month. Few (0.26 ± 0.12 pulses/day) PGFM pulses with low peak concentrations (28.8 ± 3.1 pg/mL) were observed during the first month of pregnancy, similar to cows not undergoing regression. However, in the second month, frequency (1.10 ± 0.26 pulses/day) and peak concentration (67.2 ± 5.0 pg/mL) of PGFM pulses increased, displaying similar frequency but lower peak PGFM than seen in regression (1.44 ± 0.14 pulses/day; 134.5 ± 18.9 pg/mL). Oxytocin treatment increased likelihood of PGFM pulses post-treatment and increased peak concentration (89.7 ± 10.1 pg/mL) in cows during the second month. Thus, cows have more PGFM pulses during second than first month of pregnancy, possibly induced by endogenous oxytocin, indicating suppression of PGF production is an important mechanism for CL maintenance during first but not second month of pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan A Mezera
- Department of Dairy Science, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA.,Endocrinology and Reproductive Physiology Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Caleb S Hamm
- Department of Dairy Science, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Caio A Gamarra
- Department of Dairy Science, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Rodrigo S Gennari
- Department of Dairy Science, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Alexandre B Prata
- Department of Dairy Science, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA.,Department of Animal Science, Luiz de Queiroz College of Agriculture (ESALQ), University of São Paulo, Piracicaba, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Roberto Sartori
- Department of Dairy Science, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA.,Department of Animal Science, Luiz de Queiroz College of Agriculture (ESALQ), University of São Paulo, Piracicaba, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Milo C Wiltbank
- Department of Dairy Science, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA.,Endocrinology and Reproductive Physiology Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
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36
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Rocha CC, da Silva Andrade SC, de Melo GD, Motta IG, Coutinho LL, Gonella-Diaza AM, Binelli M, Pugliesi G. Early pregnancy-induced transcripts in peripheral blood immune cells in Bos indicus heifers. Sci Rep 2020; 10:13733. [PMID: 32792605 PMCID: PMC7426272 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-70616-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2020] [Accepted: 06/08/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Immune cells play a central role in early pregnancy establishment in cattle. We aimed to: (1) discover novel early-pregnancy-induced genes in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC); and (2) characterize the temporal pattern of early-pregnancy-induced transcription of select genes in PBMC and peripheral blood polymorphonuclear cells (PMN). Beef heifers were artificially inseminated on D0 and pregnancies were diagnosed on D28. On D10, 14, 16, 18, and 20, blood was collected for isolation of PBMC and PMN from heifers that were retrospectively classified as pregnant (P) or non-pregnant (NP). PBMC samples from D18 were submitted to RNAseq and 220 genes were differentially expressed between pregnant (P) and non-pregnant (NP) heifers. The temporal abundance of 20 transcripts was compared between P and NP, both in PBMC and PMN. In PBMC, pregnancy stimulated transcription of IFI6, RSAD2, IFI44, IFITM2, CLEC3B, OAS2, TNFSF13B, DMKN and LGALS3BP as early as D18. Expression of IFI44, RSAD2, OAS2, LGALS3BP, IFI6 and C1R in PMN was stimulated in the P group from D18. The novel early-pregnancy induced genes discovered in beef heifers will allow both the understanding of the role of immune cells during the pre-attachment period and the development of technologies to detect early pregnancies in beef cattle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cecilia Constantino Rocha
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Gabriela Dalmaso de Melo
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Igor Garcia Motta
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Luiz Lehmann Coutinho
- Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, School of Agriculture Luiz de Queiroz, University of São Paulo, Piracicaba, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Angela Maria Gonella-Diaza
- North Florida Research and Education Center, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, University of Florida, Marianna, FL, USA
| | - Mario Binelli
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Guilherme Pugliesi
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil.
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37
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Zhang L, Zhao Z, Wang Y, Li N, Cao N, Yang L. Changes in expression of interferon-stimulated genes and ubiquitin activating enzyme E1-like in ovine thymus during early pregnancy. Anim Reprod 2020; 17:e20190134. [PMID: 32714456 PMCID: PMC7375869 DOI: 10.1590/1984-3143-ar2019-0134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
As the main signal for the maternal recognition in ruminants, interferon-tau (IFNT) stimulates expression of interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs) in uterus and many extrauterine tissues. However, it is unclear that early pregnancy induces expression of signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 (STAT1), myxovirusresistance 1 (Mx1), interferon-gamma-inducible protein 10 (IP-10) and ubiquitin activating enzyme E1-like protein (UBE1L) in maternal thymus. In this study, ovine thymuses were sampled on day 16 of the estrous cycle and on days 13, 16 and 25 of gestation, and the expression of STAT1, Mx1, IP-10 and UBE1L was detected by real-time quantitative PCR, Western blot and immunohistochemistry. The results revealed that the expression of STAT1 and IP-10 reached peaks on day 16 of pregnancy, and expression of Mx1 was enhanced on day 25 of pregnancy, and STAT1 protein was located in the epithelial reticular cells, capillaries and thymic corpuscles. However, expression of UBE1L was declined during early pregnancy. In conclusion, early pregnancy influences expression of STAT1, Mx1, IP-10 and UBE1L in maternal thymus, which may participate in regulation of maternal immune tolerance during early pregnancy in sheep.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leying Zhang
- Department of Animal Science, College of Life Sciences and Food Engineering, Hebei University of Engineering, Handan, China
| | - Zimo Zhao
- Department of Animal Science, College of Life Sciences and Food Engineering, Hebei University of Engineering, Handan, China
| | - Yujiao Wang
- Department of Animal Science, College of Life Sciences and Food Engineering, Hebei University of Engineering, Handan, China
| | - Ning Li
- Department of Animal Science, College of Life Sciences and Food Engineering, Hebei University of Engineering, Handan, China
| | - Nan Cao
- Department of Animal Science, College of Life Sciences and Food Engineering, Hebei University of Engineering, Handan, China
| | - Ling Yang
- Department of Animal Science, College of Life Sciences and Food Engineering, Hebei University of Engineering, Handan, China
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38
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Yang L, Li N, Zhang L, Bai J, Zhao Z, Wang Y. Effects of early pregnancy on expression of interferon‐stimulated gene 15, STAT1, OAS1, MX1, and IP‐10 in ovine liver. Anim Sci J 2020; 91:e13378. [PMID: 32329195 DOI: 10.1111/asj.13378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2019] [Revised: 02/28/2020] [Accepted: 03/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Interferon-tau (IFNT) regulates maternal recognition during early pregnancy in ruminants. The liver can serve as a hematopoietic organ, and it has immune functions. This study hypothesized whether mRNA and proteins of interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs) induced by early pregnancy are upregulated in maternal liver. Therefore, we determined the expression of interferon-stimulated gene 15-kDa protein (ISG15), 2',5'-oligoadenylate synthetase 1 (OAS1), myxovirus resistance protein 1 (MX1), interferon-gamma-inducible protein 10 (IP-10), and signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 (STAT1) in maternal livers during early pregnancy in sheep. Ovine livers were sampled on day 16 of the estrous cycle, and days 13, 16, and 25 of pregnancy, and expression of ISGs was detected by quantitative real-time PCR, Western blot, and immunohistochemistry analysis. Our results showed that there were increases in expression of the mRNA and proteins of ISG15, OAS1, IP-10, STAT1, and MX1 during early pregnancy. STAT1 protein was limited to the hepatocytes, and endothelial cells of proper hepatic arteries and hepatic portal veins. In conclusion, the upregulation of ISG15, OAS1, IP-10, STAT1, and MX1 proteins may be implicated in maternal hepatic immune adjustment and other functions during early pregnancy in sheep.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Yang
- College of Life Sciences and Food Engineering Hebei University of Engineering Handan China
| | - Ning Li
- College of Life Sciences and Food Engineering Hebei University of Engineering Handan China
| | - Leying Zhang
- College of Life Sciences and Food Engineering Hebei University of Engineering Handan China
| | - Jiachen Bai
- College of Life Sciences and Food Engineering Hebei University of Engineering Handan China
| | - Zimo Zhao
- College of Life Sciences and Food Engineering Hebei University of Engineering Handan China
| | - Yujiao Wang
- College of Life Sciences and Food Engineering Hebei University of Engineering Handan China
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39
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Ott TL. Immunological detection of pregnancy: Evidence for systemic immune modulation during early pregnancy in ruminants. Theriogenology 2020; 150:498-503. [PMID: 32331860 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2020] [Accepted: 04/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Mammalian pregnancy creates unique challenges for immune systems highly evolved to detect and eliminate invading pathogens. Recognition of the challenges created by gestating a semi-allogeneic fetus evolved from the discipline of transplantation biology and were informed by studies on the unique natural parabiosis that occurs when female calves are gestated with twin male fetuses. These pregnancies typically result in an intersex female termed a freemartin, which revealed insights into development of the male and female reproductive tracts. However, they also uncovered important clues on immune tolerance with wide-ranging implications to reproductive biology, transplantation biology and autoimmune disease. Many studies focused on identifying mechanisms through which the fetus evades maternal immune detection and elimination. These included studies characterizing immune interactions between the fetus and mother at the nourishing interface of the placenta and uterine endometrium. This immunological forbearance only occurs under high concentrations of circulating progesterone. Beyond the requirement for progesterone, there has been considerable progress towards understanding the effects of conceptus signals on maternal immune function. One common theme is that pregnancy induces a T helper 2 immune bias as shown in several mammalian species, including domestic ruminants. However, a growing body of evidence shows that the fetus not only evades, but also provokes immune responses locally in the uterus and in peripheral tissues. This is perhaps most dramatically illustrated by domestic ruminants where the conceptus secretes a unique interferon in the opening salvo of hormonal communication with the maternal immune system. The role of interferon tau in regulating expression of genes of the innate immune system in the uterus has been extensively studied. More recently, it was determined that these same genes are also induced in peripheral immune cells and other tissues throughout the body. In addition to interferon tau and progesterone, pregnancy associate glycoproteins and chaperonin 10 (aka Early Pregnancy Factor) are implicated in altering immune function both locally and systemically during pregnancy. While it is tempting to speculate that this activation of innate immunity is designed to counteract selective immunosuppression, knowledge of the importance of local and systemic immune activation to the success of pregnancy remains incomplete. This area remains fertile ground for developing better approaches to diagnose and treat infertility in domestic farm species and humans alike.
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Affiliation(s)
- Troy L Ott
- Department of Animal Science, Center for Reproductive Biology and Health, Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA.
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40
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Moraes JGN, Behura SK, Bishop JV, Hansen TR, Geary TW, Spencer TE. Analysis of the uterine lumen in fertility-classified heifers: II. Proteins and metabolites†. Biol Reprod 2020; 102:571-587. [PMID: 31616912 PMCID: PMC7331878 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioz197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2019] [Revised: 09/09/2019] [Accepted: 10/02/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Survival and growth of the bovine conceptus is dependent on endometrial secretions or histotroph. Previously, serial blastocyst transfer was used to classify heifers as high fertile (HF), subfertile (SF), or infertile (IF). Here, we investigated specific histotroph components (proteins and metabolites) in the uterine lumen of day 17 fertility-classified heifers. Interferon tau (IFNT) was more abundant in uterine lumenal fluid (ULF) of pregnant HF than SF animals as the conceptus was longer in HF heifers. However, no differences in endometrial expression of selected classical and nonclassical interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs) were observed, suggesting that IFNT signaling in the endometrium of pregnant HF and SF heifers was similar. Pregnancy significantly increased the abundance of several proteins in ULF. Based on functional annotation, the abundance of a number of proteins involved in energy metabolism, oxidative stress, amino acid metabolism, and cell proliferation and differentiation were greater in the ULF of pregnant HF than SF heifers. Metabolomics analysis found that pregnancy only changed the metabolome composition of ULF from HF heifers. The majority of the metabolites that increased in the ULF of pregnant HF as compared to SF heifers were associated with energy and amino acid metabolism. The observed differences in ULF proteome and metabolome are hypothesized to influence uterine receptivity with consequences on conceptus development and survival in fertility-classified heifers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joao G N Moraes
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Susanta K Behura
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Jeanette V Bishop
- Animal Reproduction and Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA and
| | - Thomas R Hansen
- Animal Reproduction and Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA and
| | - Thomas W Geary
- USDA-ARS, Fort Keogh Livestock and Range Research Laboratory, Miles City, Montana, USA
| | - Thomas E Spencer
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
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41
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Zhang L, Cao L, Yang F, Han X, Wang Y, Cao N, Yang L. Relative abundance of interferon-stimulated genes STAT1, OAS1, CXCL10 and MX1 in ovine lymph nodes during early pregnancy. Anim Reprod Sci 2020; 214:106285. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2020.106285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2019] [Revised: 01/07/2020] [Accepted: 01/16/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
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Interferon tau: Influences on growth and development of the conceptus. Theriogenology 2020; 150:75-83. [PMID: 32088030 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.01.069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2020] [Accepted: 01/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Interferon tau (IFNT), the pregnancy recognition signal secreted from trophectoderm cells of ruminant conceptuses abrogates the uterine luteolytic mechanism to ensure maintenance of functional corpora lutea for production of progesterone (P4). Importantly, IFNT, in concert with P4, also induces expression of genes in uterine luminal (LE) and superficial glandular (sGE) epithelia for transport and/or secretion of histotroph into the uterine lumen to support growth and development of the conceptus. For example, IFNT and P4 induce transporters responsible foer transport of glucose and arginine into the uterine lumen during the peri-implantation period of pregnancy. Arginine activates the mechanistic target of rapamycin (MTOR) nutrient sensing cell signaling pathway to stimulate proliferation, migration, differentiation and translation of mRNAs essential for growth and development of the conceptus. Glucose not utilized by the conceptus is converted to fructose and those two hexose sugars are metabolized via aerobic glycolysis to produce metabolites used in the hexosamine biosynthesis pathway, pathways for one-carbon metabolism, and pentose phosphate pathway for synthesis of ribose sugars and NADPH. Arginine is metabolized to nitric oxide (NO) that stimulates angiogenesis in uterine and placental tissues, and to polyamines required for many cellular functions critical for growth and development of the conceptus. In summary, IFNT and P4 regulate expression of genes for transport of select nutrients into the pregnant uterus during the peri-implantation period of pregnancy. Those nutrients are then metabolized via multiple metabolic pathways to not only provide ATP, but also substrates for synthesis of nucleotides, amino acids, co-factors required for growth, development, and survival of conceptuses during the peri-implantation period of pregnancy.
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Sánchez JM, Simintiras CA, Lonergan P. Aspects of embryo-maternal communication in establishment of pregnancy in cattle. Anim Reprod 2019; 16:376-385. [PMID: 32435281 PMCID: PMC7234086 DOI: 10.21451/1984-3143-ar2019-0075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Establishment of pregnancy in mammals requires reciprocal molecular communication between the conceptus and endometrium that modifies the endometrial transcriptome and uterine luminal milieu to support pregnancy. Due to the small size of the early embryo and elongating conceptus relative to the volume of the uterine lumen, collection of endometrium adjacent to the developing conceptus is difficult following conventional uterine flushing methods in cattle. Use of endometrial explants in culture can overcome this challenge and reveal information about the dialogue between the developing embryo and the uterus. The aim of this short review is to summarize some of our recent findings in relation to embryo maternal interaction during bovine pregnancy establishment and to put them in the wider context of fertility in cattle.
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Affiliation(s)
- José M Sánchez
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | | | - Patrick Lonergan
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
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Soares MJ, Varberg KM, Iqbal K. Hemochorial placentation: development, function, and adaptations. Biol Reprod 2019; 99:196-211. [PMID: 29481584 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioy049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 109] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2018] [Accepted: 02/21/2018] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Placentation is a reproductive adaptation that permits fetal growth and development within the protected confines of the female reproductive tract. Through this important role, the placenta also determines postnatal health and susceptibility to disease. The hemochorial placenta is a prominent feature in primate and rodent development. This manuscript provides an overview of the basics of hemochorial placental development and function, provides perspectives on major discoveries that have shaped placental research, and thoughts on strategies for future investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Soares
- Institute for Reproduction and Perinatal Research and the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas, USA and the Center for Perinatal Research, Children΄s Research Institute, Children΄s Mercy, Kansas City, Missouri, USA
| | - Kaela M Varberg
- Institute for Reproduction and Perinatal Research and the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas, USA
| | - Khursheed Iqbal
- Institute for Reproduction and Perinatal Research and the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas, USA
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Sánchez JM, Mathew DJ, Behura SK, Passaro C, Charpigny G, Butler ST, Spencer TE, Lonergan P. Bovine endometrium responds differentially to age-matched short and long conceptuses†. Biol Reprod 2019; 101:26-39. [PMID: 30977805 PMCID: PMC6614577 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioz060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2018] [Revised: 02/01/2019] [Accepted: 04/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
This study combined in vitro production of bovine blastocysts, multiple embryo transfer techniques, and a conceptus-endometrial explant co-culture system to test the hypothesis that bovine endometrium exposed to long vs. short day 15 conceptuses would exhibit a different transcriptome profile reflective of potential for successful pregnancy establishment. Bovine endometrial explants collected at the late luteal stage of the estrous cycle were cultured in RPMI medium for 6 h with nothing (control), 100 ng/mL recombinant ovine interferon tau (IFNT), a long day 15 conceptus, or a short day 15 conceptus. Transcriptional profiling of the endometrial explants found that exposure of endometrium to IFNT, long conceptuses, or short conceptuses altered (P < 0.05) expression of 491, 498, and 230 transcripts, respectively, compared to the control. Further analysis revealed three categories of differentially expressed genes (DEG): (i) commonly responsive to exposure to IFNT and conceptuses, irrespective of size (n = 223); (ii) commonly responsive to IFNT and long conceptuses only (n = 168); and genes induced by the presence of a conceptus but independent of IFNT (n = 108). Of those 108 genes, 101 were exclusively induced by long conceptuses and functional analysis revealed that regulation of molecular function, magnesium-ion transmembrane transport, and clathrin coat assembly were the principal gene ontologies associated with these DEG. In conclusion, bovine endometrium responds differently to age-matched conceptuses of varying size in both an IFNT-dependent and -independent manner, which may be reflective of the likelihood of successful pregnancy establishment.
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Affiliation(s)
- José María Sánchez
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Daniel J Mathew
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Susanta K Behura
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Claudia Passaro
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Gilles Charpigny
- INRA, Biologie du Développement et Reproduction, Jouy en Josas, France
| | - Stephen T Butler
- Animal and Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Teagasc, Moorepark, Fermoy, Co. Cork, Ireland
| | - Thomas E Spencer
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Pat Lonergan
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
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Simintiras CA, Sánchez JM, McDonald M, Lonergan P. The influence of progesterone on bovine uterine fluid energy, nucleotide, vitamin, cofactor, peptide, and xenobiotic composition during the conceptus elongation-initiation window. Sci Rep 2019; 9:7716. [PMID: 31118434 PMCID: PMC6531537 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-44040-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2019] [Accepted: 05/07/2019] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Conceptus elongation coincides with one of the periods of greatest pregnancy loss in cattle and is characterized by rapid trophectoderm expansion, commencing ~ Day 13 of pregnancy, i.e. before maternal pregnancy recognition. The process has yet to be recapitulated in vitro and does not occur in the absence of uterine gland secretions in vivo. Moreover, conceptus elongation rates are positively correlated to systemic progesterone in maternal circulation. It is, therefore, a maternally-driven and progesterone-correlated developmental phenomenon. This study aimed to comprehensively characterize the biochemical composition of the uterine luminal fluid on Days 12-14 - the elongation-initiation window - in heifers with normal vs. high progesterone, to identify molecules potentially involved in conceptus elongation initiation. Specifically, nucleotide, vitamin, cofactor, xenobiotic, peptide, and energy metabolite profiles of uterine luminal fluid were examined. A total of 59 metabolites were identified, of which 6 and 3 displayed a respective progesterone and day effect, whereas 16 exhibited a day by progesterone interaction, of which 8 were nucleotide metabolites. Corresponding pathway enrichment analysis revealed that pyridoxal, ascorbate, tricarboxylic acid, purine, and pyrimidine metabolism are of likely importance to to conceptus elongation initiation. Moreover, progesterone reduced total metabolite abundance on Day 12 and may alter the uterine microbiome.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - José M Sánchez
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Michael McDonald
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Patrick Lonergan
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland.
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Lonergan P, Sánchez JM, Mathew DJ, Passaro C, Fair T. Embryo development in cattle and interactions with the reproductive tract. Reprod Fertil Dev 2019; 31:118-125. [PMID: 32188547 DOI: 10.1071/rd18409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Embryo mortality is a major contributor to poor reproductive efficiency and profitability in cattle production systems. Coordinated interaction between the developing embryo or conceptus and the maternal reproductive tract is essential for pregnancy establishment in mammals. Up to the blastocyst stage, the embryo can grow in the absence of contact with the oviduct or uterus; however, conceptus elongation after hatching and before implantation, a characteristic of ruminant early development, is entirely maternally driven and is essential to ensure that sufficient quantities of interferon-τ (IFNT) are secreted by the developing conceptus to abrogate the mechanisms that bring about luteolysis. Surprisingly, many questions, such as the threshold level of IFNT required for pregnancy maintenance, remain unanswered. Failure of the conceptus to elongate undoubtedly results in embryonic loss and is thus believed to contribute greatly to reproductive failure in cattle.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Lonergan
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, D04 N2E, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - José María Sánchez
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, D04 N2E, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Daniel J Mathew
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, D04 N2E, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Claudia Passaro
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, D04 N2E, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Trudee Fair
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, D04 N2E, Dublin 4, Ireland
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Roberts RM. 30 years on from the molecular cloning of interferon-tau. Reproduction 2018; 154:E1-E2. [PMID: 29025972 DOI: 10.1530/rep-17-0585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2017] [Accepted: 10/06/2017] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- R Michael Roberts
- University of Missouri-Columbia - Animal Sciences, 240B Bond Life Sciences Center, Columbia, Missouri, USA
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Sánchez JM, Mathew DJ, Passaro C, Fair T, Lonergan P. Embryonic maternal interaction in cattle and its relationship with fertility. Reprod Domest Anim 2018; 53 Suppl 2:20-27. [PMID: 30238655 DOI: 10.1111/rda.13297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2018] [Revised: 07/19/2018] [Accepted: 07/23/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Embryo mortality is a major contributor to poor reproductive efficiency and profitability in cattle production systems. While conception is achieved (i.e., the oocyte is fertilized) in the vast majority of cases if insemination is carried out correctly, a significant proportion of the resulting embryos fail to develop to term. Appropriate communication between the developing conceptus and the maternal endometrium is essential for the establishment and maintenance of pregnancy in all mammals. Up to the blastocyst stage, around Days 7-9, contact worth the female reproductive system is not required. However, the process of conceptus elongation after hatching and prior to implantation is entirely maternally driven and is essential to ensure that sufficient quantities of interferon-tau (IFNT) are secreted by the developing conceptus to abrogate the mechanisms that bring about luteolysis. While the importance of conceptus-derived IFNT in maternal recognition of pregnancy and prevention of luteolysis in cattle is unequivocal, many questions, such as the threshold level of IFNT required for pregnancy maintenance, remain unanswered. Furthermore, the precise role of IFNT-independent mechanisms in pregnancy establishment remains to be elucidated. Irrespective of this, failure of the conceptus to elongate undoubtedly results in embryonic loss and is thus believed to contribute greatly to reproductive failure in cattle. This review will address some of these answered questions and try to shed some light on those gaps in knowledge that could potentially contribute to improved embryo survival and reproductive efficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- José María Sánchez
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Daniel J Mathew
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Claudia Passaro
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Trudee Fair
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Pat Lonergan
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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Imakawa K, Bai R, Kusama K. Integration of molecules to construct the processes of conceptus implantation to the maternal endometrium. J Anim Sci 2018; 96:3009-3021. [PMID: 29554266 DOI: 10.1093/jas/sky103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2018] [Accepted: 03/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
During the peri-implantation period, ruminant conceptuses go through rapid elongation, followed by their attachment to the uterine endometrial epithelial cells, during which interferon-tau (IFNT), a trophectodermal cytokine required for the process of maternal recognition of pregnancy, is expressed in a temporal and spatial manner. On day 22 (day 0 = day of estrus), 2 to 3 d after the initiation of bovine conceptus attachment to the uterine epithelium, when IFNT production begins to subside, the expression of molecules related to epithelial-mesenchymal transition, zinc finger E-box binding homeobox 1, snail family transcriptional repressor 2, N-cadherin, and vimentin was found in the trophectoderm. Through the use of in vitro coculture system with bovine trophoblast CT-1 and endometrial epithelial cells, a series of experiments have been conducted to elucidate mechanisms associated with the regulation of IFNT gene transcription and conceptus implantation, including epithelial-mesenchymal transition processes. Expression of IFNT, both up- and downregulation, during the peri-implantation period is tightly controlled. Cytokines and cell adhesion molecules such as epidermal growth factor, basic fibroblast growth factor, transforming growth factor beta, activin A, L-selectin-podocalyxin, and vascular cell adhesion molecule 1-integrin α4 expressed in utero all contribute to the initiation of epithelial-mesenchymal transition in the trophectoderm. These results indicate that conceptus implantation to the uterine endometrium proceeds while elongated conceptuses and endometria express cell adhesion molecules and their receptors, and the trophectoderm experiences epithelial-mesenchymal transition. Data accumulated suggest that while the conceptus and the endometrial epithelium adhere, trophectodermal cells must gain more flexibility for binucleate and possibly trinucleate cell formation during the peri-implantation period, and that understanding and constructing the conditions throughout implantation processes is key to improving ruminants' fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Imakawa
- Animal Resource Science Center, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Ago, Kasama, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - R Bai
- Animal Resource Science Center, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Ago, Kasama, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - K Kusama
- Animal Resource Science Center, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Ago, Kasama, Ibaraki, Japan
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