1
|
Aguila L, Cabrera P, Arias ME, Silva M, Felmer R. Effect of sperm treatment with lysolecithin on in vitro outcomes of equine intracytoplasmic sperm injection. J Equine Vet Sci 2024; 138:105095. [PMID: 38810588 DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2024.105095] [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: 01/11/2024] [Revised: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) in horses is currently employed for clinical and commercial uses, but the protocol could be optimized to improve its efficiency. We have hypothesized that destabilization of plasma and acrosomal membranes prior to injection would positively impact the developmental potential of equine zygotes generated by ICSI. This study evaluated effects of the sperm treatment with lysolecithin on plasma and acrosomal membranes and on oocyte activation ability, initially following heterologous ICSI on bovine oocytes and subsequently employing equine oocytes. The effects of the lysolecithin -treatment on the efficiency of conventional and piezo-assisted equine ICSI were evaluated. To do this, the equine sperm were treated with different concentrations of lysolecithin and the sperm plasma membrane, acrosome and DNA integrity were evaluated by flow cytometry. The results showed that a lysolecithin concentration of 0.08 % destabilized the membranes of all sperm and affected DNA integrity within the range described for the species (8-30 %). In addition, the heterologous ICSI assay showed that lysolecithin treatment was detrimental to the sperm's ability to activate the oocyte, therefore, chemical oocyte activation was used after equine ICSI after injection with lysolecithin -treated sperm. This group showed similar developmental rate to the control group with and without exogenous activation. In conclusion, lysolecithin pre-treatment is not necessary when using ICSI to produce equine embryos in vitro. The results from the current study provide additional insight regarding the factors impacting ICSI in horses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- L Aguila
- Laboratory of Reproduction, Centre of Reproductive Biotechnology (CEBIOR-BIOREN), Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco 4811322, Chile
| | - P Cabrera
- Laboratory of Reproduction, Centre of Reproductive Biotechnology (CEBIOR-BIOREN), Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco 4811322, Chile; Doctoral Program in Applied Cellular and Molecular Biology, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco 4811322, Chile
| | - M E Arias
- Laboratory of Reproduction, Centre of Reproductive Biotechnology (CEBIOR-BIOREN), Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco 4811322, Chile; Department of Agricultural Production, Faculty of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco 4811322, Chile
| | - M Silva
- Departament of Veterinary Sciences and Public Health, Universidad Católica de Temuco, Temuco 4811322, Chile
| | - R Felmer
- Laboratory of Reproduction, Centre of Reproductive Biotechnology (CEBIOR-BIOREN), Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco 4811322, Chile; Department of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Faculty of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco 4811322, Chile.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Velazquez MA, Idriss A, Chavatte-Palmer P, Fleming TP. The mammalian preimplantation embryo: Its role in the environmental programming of postnatal health and performance. Anim Reprod Sci 2023; 256:107321. [PMID: 37647800 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2023.107321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Revised: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
During formation of the preimplantation embryo several cellular and molecular milestones take place, making the few cells forming the early embryo vulnerable to environmental stressors than can impair epigenetic reprogramming and controls of gene expression. Although these molecular alterations can result in embryonic death, a significant developmental plasticity is present in the preimplantation embryo that promotes full-term pregnancy. Prenatal epigenetic modifications are inherited during mitosis and can perpetuate specific phenotypes during early postnatal development and adulthood. As such, the preimplantation phase is a developmental window where developmental programming can take place in response to the embryonic microenvironment present in vivo or in vitro. In this review, the relevance of the preimplantation embryo as a developmental stage where offspring health and performance can be programmed is discussed, with emphasis on malnutrition and assisted reproductive technologies; two major environmental insults with important implications for livestock production and human reproductive medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Miguel A Velazquez
- School of Natural and Environmental Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK.
| | - Abdullah Idriss
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK; Pathology and laboratory medicine, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, P.O. Box 40047, MBC J-10, Jeddah 21499, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Pascale Chavatte-Palmer
- Université Paris-Saclay, UVSQ, INRAE, BREED, 78350 Jouy-en-Josas, France; Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, BREED, 94700 Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - Tom P Fleming
- Biological Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Umair M, Scheeren VFDC, Beitsma MM, Colleoni S, Galli C, Lazzari G, de Ruijter-Villani M, Stout TAE, Claes A. In Vitro-Produced Equine Blastocysts Exhibit Greater Dispersal and Intermingling of Inner Cell Mass Cells than In Vivo Embryos. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24119619. [PMID: 37298570 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24119619] [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: 05/03/2023] [Revised: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
In vitro production (IVP) of equine embryos is increasingly popular in clinical practice but suffers from higher incidences of early embryonic loss and monozygotic twin development than transfer of in vivo derived (IVD) embryos. Early embryo development is classically characterized by two cell fate decisions: (1) first, trophectoderm (TE) cells differentiate from inner cell mass (ICM); (2) second, the ICM segregates into epiblast (EPI) and primitive endoderm (PE). This study examined the influence of embryo type (IVD versus IVP), developmental stage or speed, and culture environment (in vitro versus in vivo) on the expression of the cell lineage markers, CDX-2 (TE), SOX-2 (EPI) and GATA-6 (PE). The numbers and distribution of cells expressing the three lineage markers were evaluated in day 7 IVD early blastocysts (n = 3) and blastocysts (n = 3), and in IVP embryos first identified as blastocysts after 7 (fast development, n = 5) or 9 (slow development, n = 9) days. Furthermore, day 7 IVP blastocysts were examined after additional culture for 2 days either in vitro (n = 5) or in vivo (after transfer into recipient mares, n = 3). In IVD early blastocysts, SOX-2 positive cells were encircled by GATA-6 positive cells in the ICM, with SOX-2 co-expression in some presumed PE cells. In IVD blastocysts, SOX-2 expression was exclusive to the compacted presumptive EPI, while GATA-6 and CDX-2 expression were consistent with PE and TE specification, respectively. In IVP blastocysts, SOX-2 and GATA-6 positive cells were intermingled and relatively dispersed, and co-expression of SOX-2 or GATA-6 was evident in some CDX-2 positive TE cells. IVP blastocysts had lower TE and total cell numbers than IVD blastocysts and displayed larger mean inter-EPI cell distances; these features were more pronounced in slower-developing IVP blastocysts. Transferring IVP blastocysts into recipient mares led to the compaction of SOX-2 positive cells into a presumptive EPI, whereas extended in vitro culture did not. In conclusion, IVP equine embryos have a poorly compacted ICM with intermingled EPI and PE cells; features accentuated in slowly developing embryos but remedied by transfer to a recipient mare.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Umair
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, 3584 CM Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Mabel M Beitsma
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, 3584 CM Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Cesare Galli
- Avantea srl, Via Porcellasco 7/F, 26100 Cremona, Italy
| | | | - Marta de Ruijter-Villani
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, 3584 CM Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Tom A E Stout
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, 3584 CM Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Anthony Claes
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, 3584 CM Utrecht, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Speckhart SL, Oliver MA, Ealy AD. Developmental Hurdles That Can Compromise Pregnancy during the First Month of Gestation in Cattle. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:1760. [PMID: 37889637 PMCID: PMC10251927 DOI: 10.3390/ani13111760] [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: 05/10/2023] [Revised: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Several key developmental events are associated with early embryonic pregnancy losses in beef and dairy cows. These developmental problems are observed at a greater frequency in pregnancies generated from in-vitro-produced bovine embryos. This review describes critical problems that arise during oocyte maturation, fertilization, early embryonic development, compaction and blastulation, embryonic cell lineage specification, elongation, gastrulation, and placentation. Additionally, discussed are potential remediation strategies, but unfortunately, corrective actions are not available for several of the problems being discussed. Further research is needed to produce bovine embryos that have a greater likelihood of surviving to term.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Alan D. Ealy
- School of Animal Science, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA; (S.L.S.); (M.A.O.)
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Huijsmans TERG, Hassan HA, Smits K, Van Soom A. Postmortem Collection of Gametes for the Conservation of Endangered Mammals: A Review of the Current State-of-the-Art. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13081360. [PMID: 37106923 PMCID: PMC10135332 DOI: 10.3390/ani13081360] [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: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The collection of gametes from recently deceased domestic and wildlife mammals has been well documented in the literature. Through the utilization of gametes recovered postmortem, scientists have successfully produced embryos in 10 different wildlife species, while in 2 of those, offspring have also been born. Thus, the collection of gametes from recently deceased animals represents a valuable opportunity to increase genetic resource banks, obviating the requirement for invasive procedures. Despite the development of several protocols for gamete collection, the refinement of these techniques and the establishment of species-specific protocols are still required, taking into account both the limitations and the opportunities. In the case of wildlife, the optimization of such protocols is impeded by the scarcity of available animals, many of which have a high genetic value that must be protected rather than utilized for research purposes. Therefore, optimizing protocols for wildlife species by using domestic species as a model is crucial. In this review, we focused on the current advancements in the collection, preservation, and utilization of gametes, postmortem, in selected species belonging to Equidae, Bovidae, and Felidae, both domestic and wildlife.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tim E R G Huijsmans
- Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction, and Population Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Hiba Ali Hassan
- Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction, and Population Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Katrien Smits
- Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction, and Population Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Ann Van Soom
- Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction, and Population Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Howell LG, Mawson PR, Comizzoli P, Witt RR, Frankham R, Clulow S, O'Brien JK, Clulow J, Marinari P, Rodger JC. Modeling genetic benefits and financial costs of integrating biobanking into the conservation breeding of managed marsupials. CONSERVATION BIOLOGY : THE JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR CONSERVATION BIOLOGY 2023; 37:e14010. [PMID: 36178038 DOI: 10.1111/cobi.14010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Revised: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Managed breeding programs are an important tool in marsupial conservation efforts but may be costly and have adverse genetic effects in unavoidably small captive colonies. Biobanking and assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) could help overcome these challenges, but further demonstration of their potential is required to improve uptake. We used genetic and economic models to examine whether supplementing hypothetical captive populations of dibblers (Parantechinus apicalis) and numbats (Myrmecobius fasciatus) with biobanked founder sperm through ARTs could reduce inbreeding, lower required colony sizes, and reduce program costs. We also asked practitioners of the black-footed ferret (Mustela nigripes) captive recovery program to complete a questionnaire to examine the resources and model species research pathways required to develop an optimized biobanking protocol in the black-footed ferret. We used data from this questionnaire to devise similar costed research pathways for Australian marsupials. With biobanking and assisted reproduction, inbreeding was reduced on average by between 80% and 98%, colony sizes were on average 99% smaller, and program costs were 69- to 83-fold lower. Integrating biobanking made long-standing captive genetic retention targets possible in marsupials (90% source population heterozygosity for a minimum of 100 years) within realistic cost frameworks. Lessons from the use of biobanking technology that contributed to the recovery of the black-footed ferret include the importance of adequate research funding (US$4.2 million), extensive partnerships that provide access to facilities and equipment, colony animals, appropriate research model species, and professional and technical staff required to address knowledge gaps to deliver an optimized biobanking protocol. Applied research investment of A$133 million across marsupial research pathways could deliver biobanking protocols for 15 of Australia's most at-risk marsupial species and 7 model species. The technical expertise and ex situ facilities exist to emulate the success of the black-footed ferret recovery program in threatened marsupials using these research pathways. All that is needed now for significant and cost-effective conservation gains is greater investment by policy makers in marsupial ARTs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lachlan G Howell
- School of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Burwood, Victoria, Australia
- FAUNA Research Alliance, Kahibah, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Peter R Mawson
- Perth Zoo, Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, South Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Pierre Comizzoli
- Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, Washington, D.C., USA
| | - Ryan R Witt
- School of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
- FAUNA Research Alliance, Kahibah, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Richard Frankham
- School of Natural Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Australian Museum, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Simon Clulow
- Centre for Conservation Ecology and Genomics, Institute for Applied Ecology, University of Canberra, Bruce, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Justine K O'Brien
- Taronga Institute of Science and Learning, Taronga Conservation Society, Mosman, New South Wales, Australia
| | - John Clulow
- School of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
- FAUNA Research Alliance, Kahibah, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Paul Marinari
- Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, Front Royal, Virginia, USA
| | - John C Rodger
- School of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
- FAUNA Research Alliance, Kahibah, New South Wales, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Fatira E, Havelka M, Saito T, Landeira J, Rodina M, Gela D, Pšenička M. Intracytoplasmic sperm injection in sturgeon species: A promising reproductive technology of selected genitors. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:1054345. [PMID: 36619956 PMCID: PMC9816131 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.1054345] [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: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Sturgeons are the most endangered species group and their wild populations continue to decrease. In this study, we apply intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), an assisted reproductive technology, for the first time in endangered and critically endangered sturgeons. Using various egg-sperm species combinations we performed different ICSI experiments with immobilized pre- or non-activated spermatozoa, single or many, fresh or cryopreserved. Then we evaluated the fertilization success as well as the paternity of the resultant embryos and larvae. Surprisingly, all experimental groups exhibited embryonic development. Normal-shaped feeding larvae produced in all egg-sperm species-combination groups after ICSI using single fresh-stripped non-activated spermatozoa, in one group after ICSI using single fresh-stripped pre-activated spermatozoa, and in one group after ICSI using multiple fresh-stripped spermatozoa. ICSI with single cryopreserved non-activated spermatozoa produced neurula stage embryos. Molecular analysis showed genome integration of both egg- and sperm-donor species in most of the ICSI transplants. Overall, ICSI technology could be used as an assisted reproduction technique for producing sturgeons to rescue valuable paternal genomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Effrosyni Fatira
- Research Institute of Fish Culture and Hydrobiology, South Bohemian Research Center of Aquaculture and Biodiversity of Hydrocenoses, University of South Bohemia Ceske Budejovice, Ceské Budějovice, Czechia,Instituto de Oceanografía y Cambio Global, IOCAG, Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain,*Correspondence: Effrosyni Fatira ✉
| | - Miloš Havelka
- Nishiura Station, South Ehime Fisheries Research Center, Ehime University, Matsuyama, Japan
| | - Taiju Saito
- Research Institute of Fish Culture and Hydrobiology, South Bohemian Research Center of Aquaculture and Biodiversity of Hydrocenoses, University of South Bohemia Ceske Budejovice, Ceské Budějovice, Czechia,Nishiura Station, South Ehime Fisheries Research Center, Ehime University, Matsuyama, Japan
| | - José Landeira
- Instituto de Oceanografía y Cambio Global, IOCAG, Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain
| | - Marek Rodina
- Research Institute of Fish Culture and Hydrobiology, South Bohemian Research Center of Aquaculture and Biodiversity of Hydrocenoses, University of South Bohemia Ceske Budejovice, Ceské Budějovice, Czechia
| | - David Gela
- Research Institute of Fish Culture and Hydrobiology, South Bohemian Research Center of Aquaculture and Biodiversity of Hydrocenoses, University of South Bohemia Ceske Budejovice, Ceské Budějovice, Czechia
| | - Martin Pšenička
- Research Institute of Fish Culture and Hydrobiology, South Bohemian Research Center of Aquaculture and Biodiversity of Hydrocenoses, University of South Bohemia Ceske Budejovice, Ceské Budějovice, Czechia
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Briski O, Salamone DF. Past, present and future of ICSI in livestock species. Anim Reprod Sci 2022; 246:106925. [PMID: 35148927 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2022.106925] [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: 06/15/2021] [Revised: 01/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
During the past 2 decades, intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) has become a routine technique for clinical applications in humans. The widespread use among domestic species, however, has been limited to horses. In horses, ICSI is used to reproduce elite individuals and, as well as in humans, to mitigate or even circumvent reproductive barriers. Failures in superovulation and conventional in vitro fertilization (IVF) have been the main reason for the use of this technology in horses. In pigs, ICSI has been successfully used to produce transgenic animals. A series of factors have resulted in implementation of ICSI in pigs: need to use zygotes for numerous technologies, complexity of collecting zygotes surgically, and problems of polyspermy when there is utilization of IVF procedures. Nevertheless, there have been very few additional reports confirming positive results with the use of ICSI in pigs. The ICSI procedure could be important for use in cattle of high genetic value by maximizing semen utilization, as well as for utilization of spermatozoa from prepubertal bulls, by providing the opportunity to shorten the generation interval. When attempting to utilize ICSI in ruminants, there are some biological limitations that need to be overcome if this procedure is going to be efficacious for making genetic improvements in livestock in the future. In this review article, there is an overview and projection of the methodologies and applications that are envisioned for ICSI utilization in these species in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- O Briski
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Agronomía, Departamento de Producción Animal, Buenos Aires, Laboratorio Biotecnología Animal (LabBA), Av. San Martin 4453, Ciudad Autónoma de, Buenos Aires 1417, Argentina; CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Instituto de Investigaciones en Producción Animal (INPA), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - D F Salamone
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Agronomía, Departamento de Producción Animal, Buenos Aires, Laboratorio Biotecnología Animal (LabBA), Av. San Martin 4453, Ciudad Autónoma de, Buenos Aires 1417, Argentina; CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Instituto de Investigaciones en Producción Animal (INPA), Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Bovine ICSI: limiting factors, strategies to improve its efficiency and alternative approaches. ZYGOTE 2022; 30:749-767. [PMID: 36082429 DOI: 10.1017/s0967199422000296] [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: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) is an assisted reproductive technique mainly used to overcome severe infertility problems associated with the male factor, but in cattle its efficiency is far from optimal. Artificial activation treatments combining ionomycin (Io) with 6-dimethylaminopurine after piezo-ICSI or anisomycin after conventional ICSI have recently increased the blastocyst rate obtained. Compounds to capacitate bovine spermatozoa, such as heparin and methyl-β-cyclodextrin and compounds to destabilize sperm membranes such as NaOH, lysolecithin and Triton X-100, have been assessed, although they have failed to substantially improve post-ICSI embryonic development. Disulfide bond reducing agents, such as dithiothreitol (DTT), dithiobutylamine and reduced glutathione, have been assessed to decondense the hypercondensed head of bovine spermatozoa, the two latter being more efficient than DTT and less harmful. Although piezo-directed ICSI without external activation has generated high fertilization rates and modest rates of early embryo development, other studies have required exogenous activation to improve the results. This manuscript thoroughly reviews the different strategies used in bovine ICSI to improve its efficiency and proposes some alternative approaches, such as the use of extracellular vesicles (EVs) as 'biological methods of oocyte activation' or the incorporation of EVs in the in vitro maturation and/or culture medium as antioxidant defence agents to improve the competence of the ooplasm, as well as a preincubation of the spermatozoa in estrous oviductal fluid to induce physiological capacitation and acrosome reaction before ICSI, and the use of hyaluronate in the sperm immobilization medium.
Collapse
|
10
|
Colombo M, Morselli MG, Zahmel J, Luvoni GC. Ultra-Rapid Freezing Preserves Morphofunctional Integrity and Fertilizing Ability of Epididymal Cat Spermatozoa. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:866953. [PMID: 35774984 PMCID: PMC9237782 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.866953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Vitrification and ultra-rapid freezing, which are more commonly used for oocytes and embryos, have recently been applied to spermatozoa in an attempt to make semen cryopreservation in field conditions easier compared to conventional freezing. It is well-known that in case of unexpected death of rare and wild animals, preserving epididymal spermatozoa from isolated testicles represents a great chance of salvaging male germplasm for future use in assisted reproductive technologies. The aim of this study was to evaluate the morphofunctional integrity of cat epididymal spermatozoa ultra-rapid frozen in pellets or straws with two different extenders [E1 (Tris buffer with 20% egg yolk and 0.25 M sucrose) or E2 (Ham's F10 with 1% bovine serum albumin and 0.4 M sucrose)] and to test whether spermatozoa preserved by the best combination were able to fertilize oocytes and produce embryos in vitro by intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) of in vitro matured cat oocytes. The results showed that E1 and E2 in straw or pellet were comparable (at warming, about 30% normal morphology, 45% intact membranes, and 20% intact acrosomes), except for post-warming motility that was better maintained along time by E1 pellet (21.7 ± 7.4% at warming and 3.6 ± 2.9% after 6 h). Such spermatozoa could fertilize conspecific oocytes and support embryonic development (cleavage 35.5%) as well as frozen control spermatozoa (cleavage 54.29%, p = 0.22). In conclusion, cat epididymal spermatozoa better maintained their morphofunctional features after ultra-rapid freezing with E1 and could successfully produce embryos in vitro after ICSI. This underscores their usefulness as cryobanked material for fertility and biodiversity preservation purposes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Martina Colombo
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria e Scienze Animali (DIVAS), Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
- *Correspondence: Martina Colombo
| | - Maria Giorgia Morselli
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria e Scienze Animali (DIVAS), Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Jennifer Zahmel
- Department of Reproduction Biology, Leibniz-Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - Gaia Cecilia Luvoni
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria e Scienze Animali (DIVAS), Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Extracellular vesicles in mammalian reproduction: a review. ZYGOTE 2022; 30:440-463. [PMID: 35652626 DOI: 10.1017/s0967199422000090] [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: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Over the last decades, extracellular vesicles (EVs) have been found to be implicated in a complex universal mechanism of communication between different cell types. EVs are nanostructures of lipid nature that have an exosomal or ectosomal biogenesis, responsible for the intercellular transport of proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, nucleic acids, ions, among other molecules. The content of EVs can vary due to various factors such as hormonal stimuli, non-physiological conditions, metabolic state, etc. Once EVs reach their target cell, they can modulate processes such as gene expression, metabolism, response to external factors, and can even be associated with the delivery of molecules involved in epigenetic inheritance processes in germ cells. In mammalian reproduction, EVs have been shown to play an important role, either in vivo or in vitro, modulating a variety of processes in sperm, oocytes and embryos, and in their respective environments. Moreover, EVs represent a biodegradable, harmless and specific vehicle, which makes them attractive allies to consider when improving assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs). Therefore, the present review aims to describe the content of the main EVs involved in mammalian reproduction and how they can vary due to different factors, as well as to detail how EVs modulate, directly or indirectly, different molecular processes in gametes and embryos. In addition, we will highlight the mechanisms that remain to be elucidated. We will also propose new perspectives according to the characteristics of each particular EV to improve the different ARTs.
Collapse
|
12
|
Yanagimachi R. Mysteries and unsolved problems of mammalian fertilization and related topics. Biol Reprod 2022; 106:644-675. [PMID: 35292804 PMCID: PMC9040664 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Revised: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Mammalian fertilization is a fascinating process that leads to the formation of a new individual. Eggs and sperm are complex cells that must meet at the appropriate time and position within the female reproductive tract for successful fertilization. I have been studying various aspects of mammalian fertilization over 60 years. In this review, I discuss many different aspects of mammalian fertilization, some of my laboratory's contribution to the field, and discuss enigmas and mysteries that remain to be solved.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ryuzo Yanagimachi
- Institute for Biogenesis Research, Department of Anatomy, Biochemistry and Physiology, University of Hawaii Medical School, Honolulu, HI 96822, USA
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Zainuddin ZZ, Tarmizi R, Chee YK, Sarkawi NN, Ahmad H, Salleh A, Tahir NDM, Baiee F, Che-Amat A, Fitri WN. Preliminary findings of age and male sexual characteristics andand potential effect to semen characteristics and cryopreservation of the critically endangered Bornean orangutan in Malaysia. Primates 2022; 63:377-386. [PMID: 35460385 DOI: 10.1007/s10329-022-00989-z] [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: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Bornean orangutan is a critically endangered non-human primate; however, the threat of extinction is not merely from poaching and habitat loss. Orangutan survival is also threatened by the genetic loss and genetic bottleneck due to the low effective population, prompting the dire need for an immediate genetic preservation program through systematic biobanking and assisted reproductive technology (ART). This study aims to provide integral data to the semen characteristics, extension, and cryopreservation of the Bornean orangutan and the potential relationship to male traits. Five captive orangutans from Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre (SORC) with a mean body weight of 52.81 ± 7.00 kg were used for this study. Semen collection was performed using electroejaculation (EE) under complete general anesthesia. Semen was subjected to macroscopic and microscopic evaluation while testicular measurement was obtained using digital calipers. The semen characteristics of the orangutans are volume (778 ± 250.21 µl), pH (7.80 ± 0.25), concentration (32.38 ± 17.40 × 106 sperm/ml), total motility (61.00 ± 12.88%), adjusted motility index (48.76 ± 11.32%), live spermatozoa (77.75 ± 6.94%) and normal spermatozoa (11.48 ± 11.34%). Analysis of variance statistical analysis test was used to compare the significant difference between means, at (p < 0.05). Spermatozoa concentration was the only significant different parameter between individuals. Testes biometry parameters are statistically significant between the flanged and unflanged individuals. Live spermatozoa are different in adult and sub-adult individual while teratospermia was found to be consistently high in all individuals. Chilled and post-thaw quality after cryopreservation suggests promising survivability of spermatozoa. Semen collection with EE yields a consistent and acceptable quality of spermatozoa for cryopreservation, biobanking purposes, and potential application of ART.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zainal Zahari Zainuddin
- Bringing Back Our Rare Animal, Sabah, Malaysia, c/o Faculty of Sciences and Natural Resources, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Kota Kinabalu, 88400, Sabah, Malaysia
| | - Reza Tarmizi
- Bringing Back Our Rare Animal, Sabah, Malaysia, c/o Faculty of Sciences and Natural Resources, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Kota Kinabalu, 88400, Sabah, Malaysia
| | - Yap Keng Chee
- Bringing Back Our Rare Animal, Sabah, Malaysia, c/o Faculty of Sciences and Natural Resources, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Kota Kinabalu, 88400, Sabah, Malaysia
| | - Nur Nabila Sarkawi
- Sabah Wildlife Department, Level 4, Block B, Wisma MUIS, Kota Kinabalu, 88100, Sabah, Malaysia
| | - Hafandi Ahmad
- Department of Veterinary Preclinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Annas Salleh
- Department of Veterinary Laboratory Diagnosis, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Nur Diyana Mohamad Tahir
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Falah Baiee
- Department of Clinical Science, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Kufa, 54003, Najaf, Iraq
| | - Azlan Che-Amat
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Wan-Nor Fitri
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Castro-Modesto T, Mamani P, Pella R, Bravo Z, Villarreal-Ugarte S, Cancho C, Aguila L, Ratto MH, Valdivia M. Effect of follicle size on in vitro maturation in alpaca oocytes (Vicugna pacos) and the first ICSI in alpaca species. Small Rumin Res 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2022.106680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
|
15
|
Controlled spermatozoa-oocyte interaction improves embryo quality in sheep. Sci Rep 2021; 11:22629. [PMID: 34799642 PMCID: PMC8604962 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-02000-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 11/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The current protocols of in vitro fertilization and culture in sheep rely on paradigms established more than 25 years ago, where Metaphase II oocytes are co-incubated with capacitated spermatozoa overnight. While this approach maximizes the number of fertilized oocytes, on the other side it exposes them to high concentration of reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated by active and degenerating spermatozoa, and positively correlates with polyspermy. Here we set up to precisely define the time frame during which spermatozoa effectively penetrates and fertilizes the oocyte, in order to drastically reduce spermatozoa-oocyte interaction. To do that, in vitro matured sheep oocytes co-incubated with spermatozoa in IVF medium were sampled every 30 min (start of incubation time 0) to verify the presence of a fertilizing spermatozoon. Having defined the fertilization time frame (4 h, data from 105 oocytes), we next compared the standard IVF procedures overnight (about 16 h spermatozoa/oocyte exposure, group o/nIVF) with a short one (4 h, group shIVF). A lower polyspermic fertilization (> 2PN) was detected in shIVF (6.5%) compared to o/nIVF (17.8%), P < 0.05. The o/nIVF group resulted in a significantly lower 2-cell stage embryos, than shIVF [34.6% (81/234) vs 50.6% (122/241) respectively, P < 0.001]. Likewise, the development to blastocyst stage confirmed a better quality [29% (70/241) vs 23.5% (55/234), shIVF vs o/nIVF respectively] and an increased Total Cell Number (TCN) in shIVF embryos, compared with o/n ones. The data on ROS have confirmed that its generation is IVF time-dependent, with high levels in the o/nIVF group. Overall, the data suggest that a shorter oocyte-spermatozoa incubation results in an improved embryo production and a better embryo quality, very likely as a consequence of a shorter exposure to the free oxygen radicals and the ensuing oxidative stress imposed by overnight culture.
Collapse
|
16
|
Interspecific ICSI for the Assessment of Sperm DNA Damage: Technology Report. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11051250. [PMID: 33926086 PMCID: PMC8145464 DOI: 10.3390/ani11051250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2021] [Revised: 04/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Xenogenic mammalian sperm heads injected into mouse ovulated oocytes decondense and form pronuclei in which sperm DNA parameters can be evaluated. We suggest that this approach can be used for the assessment of sperm DNA damage level and the evaluation of how certain sperm treatments (freezing, lyophilization, etc.) influence the quality of spermatozoa.
Collapse
|
17
|
Unnikrishnan V, Kastelic JP, Thundathil JC. Ouabain-induced activation of phospholipase C zeta and its contributions to bovine sperm capacitation. Cell Tissue Res 2021; 385:785-801. [PMID: 33885964 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-021-03455-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2020] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The sperm-derived oocyte activating factor, phospholipase C zeta (PLC ζ), is the only PLC isoform reported in cattle. The objectives were to (1) localize PLC ζ in fresh and capacitated bovine sperm and (2) investigate the activation of PLC ζ during bull sperm capacitation and contributions of PLC activity to this process. We confirmed interaction of testis-specific isoform of Na/K-ATPase (ATP1A4) with PLC ζ (immunolocalization and immunoprecipitation) and tyrosine phosphorylation (immunoprecipitation) of PLC ζ (a post-translational protein modification commonly involved in activation of PLC in somatic cells) during capacitation. Furthermore, incubation of sperm under capacitating conditions upregulated PLC-mediated hyperactivated motility, tyrosine phosphoprotein content, acrosome reaction, and F-actin formation (flow cytometry), implying that PLC activity is enhanced during capacitation and contributing to these capacitation processes. In conclusion, we inferred that PLC ζ is activated during capacitation by tyrosine phosphorylation through a mechanism involving ATP1A4, contributing to capacitation-associated biochemical events.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Veena Unnikrishnan
- Department of Production Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, CAL, T2N 4N1, Canada
| | - John P Kastelic
- Department of Production Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, CAL, T2N 4N1, Canada
| | - Jacob C Thundathil
- Department of Production Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, CAL, T2N 4N1, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Ratner LD, La Motta GE, Briski O, Salamone DF, Fernandez-Martin R. Practical Approaches for Knock-Out Gene Editing in Pigs. Front Genet 2021; 11:617850. [PMID: 33747029 PMCID: PMC7973260 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2020.617850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Pigs are an important resource for meat production and serve as a model for human diseases. Due to their physiological and anatomical similarities to humans, these animals can recapitulate symptoms of human diseases, becoming an effective model for biomedical research. Although, in the past pig have not been widely used partially because of the difficulty in genetic modification; nowadays, with the new revolutionary technology of programmable nucleases, and fundamentally of the CRISPR-Cas9 systems, it is possible for the first time to precisely modify the porcine genome as never before. To this purpose, it is necessary to introduce the system into early stage zygotes or to edit cells followed by somatic cell nuclear transfer. In this review, several strategies for pig knock-out gene editing, using the CRISPR-Cas9 system, will be summarized, as well as genotyping methods and different delivery techniques to introduce these tools into the embryos. Finally, the best approaches to produce homogeneous, biallelic edited animals will be discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Daniela Ratner
- Laboratorio Biotecnología Animal (LabBA), Departamento de Producción Animal, Facultad de Agronomía, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Instituto de Investigaciones en Producción Animal (INPA), CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Gaston Emilio La Motta
- Laboratorio Biotecnología Animal (LabBA), Departamento de Producción Animal, Facultad de Agronomía, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Instituto de Investigaciones en Producción Animal (INPA), CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Olinda Briski
- Laboratorio Biotecnología Animal (LabBA), Departamento de Producción Animal, Facultad de Agronomía, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Instituto de Investigaciones en Producción Animal (INPA), CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Daniel Felipe Salamone
- Laboratorio Biotecnología Animal (LabBA), Departamento de Producción Animal, Facultad de Agronomía, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Instituto de Investigaciones en Producción Animal (INPA), CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Rafael Fernandez-Martin
- Laboratorio Biotecnología Animal (LabBA), Departamento de Producción Animal, Facultad de Agronomía, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Instituto de Investigaciones en Producción Animal (INPA), CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Ciani F, Maruccio L, Cocchia N, d’Angelo D, Carotenuto D, Avallone L, Namagerdi AA, Tafuri S. Antioxidants in assisted reproductive technologies: An overview on dog, cat, and horse. J Adv Vet Anim Res 2021; 8:173-184. [PMID: 33860028 PMCID: PMC8043350 DOI: 10.5455/javar.2021.h500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2020] [Revised: 11/02/2020] [Accepted: 11/14/2020] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) are widely used as a tool to improve reproductive performance in both humans and animals. In particular, in the veterinary field, ARTs are used to improve animal genetics, recover endangered animals, and produce offspring in the event of subfertility or infertility in males or females. However, the use of ARTs did not improve the fertilization rate in some animals due to various factors such as the difficulty in reproducing an anatomical and humoral substrate typical of the natural condition or due to the increase in catabolites and their difficult elimination. The in vitro environment allows the production and increase in the concentration of substances, including reactive oxygen species (ROS), which could be harmful to gametes. If produced in high concentration, the ROS becomes deleterious, both in vitro and in vivo systems. It has been seen that the use of antioxidants can help neutralize or counteract the production of ROS. The present study aims to report the latest findings regarding the use of antioxidants in ARTs of some domestic species, such as dogs, cats, and horses, compared to other animal species, such as cattle, in which ARTs have instead developed more widely.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Ciani
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
- These authors contributed equally
| | - Lucianna Maruccio
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
- These authors contributed equally
| | - Natascia Cocchia
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Danila d’Angelo
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Luigi Avallone
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Simona Tafuri
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Unnikrishnan V, Kastelic J, Thundathil J. Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection in Cattle. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:198. [PMID: 33572865 PMCID: PMC7911995 DOI: 10.3390/genes12020198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2021] [Revised: 01/23/2021] [Accepted: 01/26/2021] [Indexed: 10/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) involves the microinjection of sperm into a matured oocyte. Although this reproductive technology is successfully used in humans and many animal species, the efficiency of this procedure is low in the bovine species mainly due to failed oocyte activation following sperm microinjection. This review discusses various reasons for the low efficiency of ICSI in cattle, potential solutions, and future directions for research in this area, emphasizing the contributions of testis-specific isoforms of Na/K-ATPase (ATP1A4) and phospholipase C zeta (PLC ζ). Improving the efficiency of bovine ICSI would benefit the cattle breeding industries by effectively utilizing semen from elite sires at their earliest possible age.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jacob Thundathil
- Department of Production Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N4N1, Canada; (V.U.); (J.K.)
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Oocyte Selection for In Vitro Embryo Production in Bovine Species: Noninvasive Approaches for New Challenges of Oocyte Competence. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10122196. [PMID: 33255250 PMCID: PMC7760727 DOI: 10.3390/ani10122196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Revised: 11/17/2020] [Accepted: 11/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The efficiency of producing embryos using in vitro technologies in cattle species remains lower when compared to mice, indicating that the proportion of female gametes that fail to develop after in vitro manipulation is considerably large. Considering that the intrinsic quality of the oocyte is one of the main factors affecting embryo production, the precise identification of noninvasive markers that predict oocyte competence is of major interest. The aim of this review was to explore the current literature on different noninvasive markers associated with oocyte quality in the bovine model. Apart from some controversial findings, the presence of cycle-related structures in ovaries, a follicle size between 6 and 10 mm, a large slightly expanded investment without dark areas, large oocyte diameter (>120 microns), dark cytoplasm, and the presence of a round and smooth first polar body have been associated with better embryonic development. In addition, the combination of oocyte and zygote selection, spindle imaging, and the anti-Stokes Raman scattering microscopy together with studies decoding molecular cues in oocyte maturation have the potential to further optimize the identification of oocytes with better developmental competence for in vitro technologies in livestock species. Abstract The efficiency of producing embryos using in vitro technologies in livestock species rarely exceeds the 30–40% threshold, indicating that the proportion of oocytes that fail to develop after in vitro fertilization and culture is considerably large. Considering that the intrinsic quality of the oocyte is one of the main factors affecting blastocyst yield, the precise identification of noninvasive cellular or molecular markers that predict oocyte competence is of major interest to research and practical applications. The aim of this review was to explore the current literature on different noninvasive markers associated with oocyte quality in the bovine model. Apart from some controversial findings, the presence of cycle-related structures in ovaries, a follicle size between 6 and 10 mm, large number of surrounding cumulus cells, slightly expanded investment without dark areas, large oocyte diameter (>120 microns), dark cytoplasm, and the presence of a round and smooth first polar body have been associated with better competence. In addition, the combination of oocyte and zygote selection via brilliant cresyl blue (BCB) test, spindle imaging, and the anti-Stokes Raman scattering microscopy together with studies decoding molecular cues in oocyte maturation have the potential to further optimize the identification of oocytes with better developmental competence for in-vitro-derived technologies in livestock species.
Collapse
|
22
|
Ressaissi Y, Anzalone DA, Palazzese L, Czernik M, Loi P. The impaired development of sheep ICSI derived embryos is not related to centriole dysfunction. Theriogenology 2020; 159:7-12. [PMID: 33113447 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Revised: 09/21/2020] [Accepted: 10/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
While intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) is an asset in human Assisted Reproduction Technologies (ART), its outcomes, in terms of blastocyst, is still unacceptably low in ruminants. The picture typically found in ICSI derived bovine and ovine embryos is an asymmetry between a high activation rate, marked by a pronuclear development, and a low first cleavage rate. Abnormal centriole function has been indicated as a possible factor which undermines embryonic development following ICSI, especially when Freeze Dried spermatozoa (FD) are used. In order to verify the hypothesis that centriole dysfunction might be responsible for low ICSI outcomes in sheep, we have investigated micro-tubular dynamics, markedly aster nucleation, in fertilized sheep zygotes by ICSI with frozen/thawed (FT) and FD spermatozoa; In Vitro Fertilized (IVF) sheep oocytes were used as control. The spermatozoa aster nucleation was assessed at different time points following ICSI and IVF by immune-detection of α-tubulin. Pronuclear stage, syngamy and embryo development were assessed. No difference was noticed in the timing of aster nucleation and microtubule elongation in ICSI-FT derived embryos with control IVF ones, while a delay was recorded in ICSI-FD ones. The proportion of 2-pronuclear stage zygotes was similar in ICSI-FT and ICSI-FD (47% and 53%, respectively), both much lower comparing the IVF ones (73%). Likewise, syngamy was observed in a minority of both ICSI groups (28.5% vs 12.5% in ICSI-FT/FD respectively) comparing to IVF controls (50%), with a high number of zygotes blocked at the 2-pronuclear stage (71.5% vs 87.5% respectively). While no significant differences were noticed in the cleavage rate between ICSI-FD, ICSI-FT and IVF groups (31%, 34% and 44%) respectively, development to blastocyst stage was markedly compromised in both ICSI groups, especially with FD spermatozoa (10% in ICIS-FD and 19% in ICSI-FT vs 33% in IVF (P < 0.005, ICSI-FD vs IVF and P < 0.05, IVF vs ICSI-FT, respectively). Hence, here we have demonstrated that the reduced cleavage, and the ensuing impaired development to blastocysts stage of ICSI derived sheep embryos is not related to centriole dysfunction, as suggested by other authors. The major recorded problem is the lack of syngamy in ICSI derived zygotes, an issue that should be addressed in further studies to improve ICSI procedure in sheep embryos.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yosra Ressaissi
- Laboratory of Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Via R. Balzarini, Teramo, 1 - 64100, Italy
| | - Debora Agata Anzalone
- Laboratory of Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Via R. Balzarini, Teramo, 1 - 64100, Italy
| | - Luca Palazzese
- Laboratory of Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Via R. Balzarini, Teramo, 1 - 64100, Italy
| | - Marta Czernik
- Laboratory of Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Via R. Balzarini, Teramo, 1 - 64100, Italy
| | - Pasqualino Loi
- Laboratory of Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Via R. Balzarini, Teramo, 1 - 64100, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Gambini A, Duque Rodríguez M, Rodríguez MB, Briski O, Flores Bragulat AP, Demergassi N, Losinno L, Salamone DF. Horse ooplasm supports in vitro preimplantation development of zebra ICSI and SCNT embryos without compromising YAP1 and SOX2 expression pattern. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0238948. [PMID: 32915925 PMCID: PMC7485800 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0238948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Accepted: 08/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Several equids have gone extinct and many extant equids are currently considered vulnerable to critically endangered. This work aimed to evaluate whether domestic horse oocytes support preimplantation development of zebra embryos obtained by intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI, zebroid) and cloning, and to study the Hippo signaling pathway during the lineage specification of trophectoderm cells and inner cell mass cells. We first showed that zebra and horse sperm cells induce porcine oocyte activation and recruit maternal SMARCA4 during pronuclear formation. SMARCA4 recruitment showed to be independent of the genetic background of the injected sperm. No differences were found in blastocyst rate of ICSI hybrid (zebra spermatozoon into horse egg) embryos relative to the homospecific horse control group. Interestingly, zebra cloned blastocyst rate was significantly higher at day 8. Moreover, most ICSI and cloned horse and zebra blastocysts showed a similar expression pattern of SOX2 and nuclear YAP1 with the majority of the nuclei positive for YAP1, and most SOX2+ nuclei negative for YAP1. Here we demonstrated that horse oocytes support zebra preimplantation development of both, ICSI and cloned embryos, without compromising development to blastocyst, blastocyst cell number neither the expression of SOX2 and YAP1. Our results support the use of domestic horse oocytes as a model to study in vitro zebra embryos on behalf of preservation of valuable genetic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrés Gambini
- Facultad de Agronomía, Cátedra de Producción Equina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- * E-mail:
| | - Matteo Duque Rodríguez
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Facultad de Agronomía, Cátedra de Fisiología Animal, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María Belén Rodríguez
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Facultad de Agronomía, Cátedra de Fisiología Animal, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Olinda Briski
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Facultad de Agronomía, Cátedra de Fisiología Animal, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Ana P. Flores Bragulat
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Facultad de Agronomía y Veterinaria, Cátedra de Producción Equina, Universidad Nacional de Río Cuarto, Río IV, Córdoba, Argentina
| | | | - Luis Losinno
- Facultad de Agronomía y Veterinaria, Cátedra de Producción Equina, Universidad Nacional de Río Cuarto, Río IV, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Daniel F. Salamone
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Facultad de Agronomía, Cátedra de Fisiología Animal, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Effect of crocetin added to IVM medium for prepubertal goat oocytes on blastocyst outcomes after IVF, intracytoplasmic sperm injection and parthenogenetic activation. Theriogenology 2020; 155:70-76. [PMID: 32623132 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2020] [Revised: 06/09/2020] [Accepted: 06/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Crocetin is an active constituent of saffron recently used as antioxidant for embryo culture. The aim of this study was to test the effect of crocetin added in the in vitro maturation (IVM) of prepubertal goat oocytes on the embryo development after in vitro fertilization (IVF), intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) and parthenogenetic activation (PA). Cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) were released from slaughterhouse ovaries of prepubertal goats and in vitro matured in supplemented TCM 199 medium during 24 h without (control group) and with crocetin. In Experiment 1, we evaluated the effect of the IVM supplementation with 0 μM (control), 0.5 μM, 1 μM and 2 μM of crocetin on the blastocyst development after IVF. No significant differences were obtained on blastocyst formation among groups (12, 7, 10, 11%; respectively). Although the blastocyst total cell number was higher in 1 μM crocetin group (150.7 cells) compared to the control (105.5), 0.5 μM (116.2) and 2 μM (93.7) crocetin groups, no significant differences were detected. In experiment 2, we assessed the effect of 1 μM crocetin supplementation in the IVM medium on the oocyte GSH level, ROS level and mitochondrial activity. ROS was significantly higher in the control than in the crocetin group (P < 0.05), but no differences in GSH level and mitochondrial activity were observed. In experiment 3, we evaluated the effect of 1 μM crocetin on the blastocyst development of oocytes after ICSI and PA. No statistical differences were found on blastocyst rate or cell number. However, compared with control, crocetin groups led to higher cleavage (59 vs. 67%, respectively, P = 0.09) and blastocyst rates (19 vs. 12%, respectively; P = 0.12) after ICSI. Although crocetin reduced ROS levels in prepubertal goat oocytes, it did not have a significant effect on oocyte embryo developmental competence.
Collapse
|
25
|
Herrick JR. Assisted reproductive technologies for endangered species conservation: developing sophisticated protocols with limited access to animals with unique reproductive mechanisms. Biol Reprod 2020; 100:1158-1170. [PMID: 30770538 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioz025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2018] [Revised: 01/11/2019] [Accepted: 02/14/2019] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) have been proposed as a means of overcoming the significant challenges of managing small, isolated populations of endangered species in zoos. However, efficient protocols for ARTs do not exist for most endangered species. This review will focus on research efforts to characterize unique reproductive mechanisms and develop species-specific ARTs. Central to these studies are assays to measure steroid metabolites in urine or feces and/or training programs to allow unrestrained blood collections and ultrasound evaluations. The resulting information about estrous cycle dynamics, combined with studies of semen collection and processing, provides the foundation for the development of artificial insemination (AI). In vitro fertilization and embryo transfer are also discussed in relation to the advantages these techniques could provide relative to AI, as well as the significant challenges involved with technologies that require oocytes and embryos. Finally, an argument is made for additional research of nontraditional model species (e.g., domestic cats and dogs) and the development of novel models representing unique taxa. Whether these species are studied by zoo-based researchers with the expressed intent of developing ARTs for conservation or academic scientists interested in basic biology, the resulting information will provide a unique, evolutionary perspective on reproduction that could have wide-reaching benefits. The more information we have available, the better our chances will be of developing effective ARTs and making a difference in conservation efforts for endangered species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jason R Herrick
- Department of Reproductive Sciences, Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, 3701 S. 10th St., Omaha, NE 68107, USA
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Liao C, Shen X, Zhang Y, Lei L. Ratio of the zygote cytoplasm to the paternal genome affects the reprogramming and developmental efficiency of androgenetic embryos. Mol Reprod Dev 2020; 87:493-502. [PMID: 32064722 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23327] [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: 11/02/2019] [Accepted: 02/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Uniparental embryos have uniparental genomes and are very useful models for studying the specific gene expression of parents or for exploring the biological significance of genomic imprinting in mammals. However, the early developmental efficiency of androgenetic embryos is significantly lower than that of parthenogenetic embryos. In addition, oocytes are able to reprogram sperm nuclei after fertilization to guarantee embryonic development by maternally derived reprogramming factors, which accumulate during oogenesis. However, the importance of maternal material in the efficiency of reprogramming the pronucleus of androgenetic embryos is not known. In this study, androgenetic embryos were constructed artificially by pronucleus transfer (PT) or double sperm injection (DS). Compared with DS embryos, PT embryos that were derived from two zygotes contained more maternal material, like 10-11 translocation methylcytosine deoxygenase 3 (Tet3) and histone variant 3.3 (H3.3). Our experiments confirmed the better developmental potential of PT embryos, which had higher blastocyst rates, a stronger expression of pluripotent genes, a lower expression of apoptotic genes, and superior blastocyst quality. Our findings indicate that the aggregation of more maternal materials in the paternal pronucleus facilitate the reprogramming of the paternal genome, improving embryonic development in PT androgenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chen Liao
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Xinghui Shen
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Yuwei Zhang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Shunyi Maternal and Children's Hospital of Beijing Children's Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Lei Lei
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Mercati F, Domingo P, Pasquariello R, Dall'Aglio C, Di Michele A, Forti K, Cocci P, Boiti C, Gil L, Zerani M, Maranesi M. Effect of chelating and antioxidant agents on morphology and DNA methylation in freeze-drying rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) spermatozoa. Reprod Domest Anim 2020; 55:29-37. [PMID: 31626708 DOI: 10.1111/rda.13577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2019] [Revised: 09/26/2019] [Accepted: 10/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Freeze-drying (FD) has been exhaustively tried in several mammalian species as an alternative technique to sperm cryopreservation, but few studies have been done in rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus). The main objective of this study was to compare the protective effect of various antioxidants added to EDTA medium on structural and functional components of FD rabbit spermatozoa and on their status of global DNA methylation. FD media used were composed of basic FD medium (10 mM Tris-HCl buffer and 50 mM NaCl) supplemented with either 50 mM EDTA alone (EDTA) or added with 105 µM of rosmarinic acid (RA, EDTA-RA) or 10 µM of melatonin (MLT, EDTA-MLT). The effect of each medium on the preservation of FD spermatozoon structure was evaluated with light and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Global DNA methylation was quantified in all FD sperm samples as well as in fresh spermatozoa. Morphologically, fracture points were evidenced in the neck, mid and principal piece of the spermatozoon tail. No differences in spermatozoon fracture points were evidenced among FD treatments: intact spermatozoa were the largest (p < .01) category, whereas the most frequent (p < .01) injury was the neck fracture, resulting in tailless heads. At SEM, the head of spermatozoa showed a well-conserved shape and intact membrane in all treatments. DNA methylation status was the same in all FD treatments. In conclusion, supplementation of EDTA, EDTA-RA and EDTA-MLT during FD preserved rabbit sperm morphological integrity and methylation status as well. Therefore, the difficulty of getting viable offspring using FD semen is likely unrelated to the impact of the lyophilization process on DNA methylation and morphology of lyophilized spermatozoa.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Mercati
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università di Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Paula Domingo
- Departamento de Patologìa Animal, Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Rolando Pasquariello
- Dipartimento di Scienze Agrarie e Ambientali - Produzione, Territorio, Agroenergia, Università di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Cecilia Dall'Aglio
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università di Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | | | - Katia Forti
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale Umbria e Marche 'Togo Rosati' Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Paolo Cocci
- Scuola di Bioscienze e Medicina Veterinaria, Università di Camerino, Camerino, Italy
| | - Cristiano Boiti
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università di Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Lidia Gil
- Departamento de Patologìa Animal, Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Massimo Zerani
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università di Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | | |
Collapse
|
28
|
Deng T, Xie J, Ge H, Liu Q, Song X, Hu L, Meng L, Zhang C. Tauroursodeoxycholic acid (TUDCA) enhanced intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) embryo developmental competence by ameliorating endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and inhibiting apoptosis. J Assist Reprod Genet 2019; 37:119-126. [PMID: 31802346 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-019-01627-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2019] [Accepted: 11/01/2019] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The objective of this study was to examine the effect of tauroursodeoxycholic acid (TUDCA) on intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) embryos by evaluating endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, apoptosis, and embryo developmental competence in vitro and in vivo. METHODS ER stress-associated genes and apoptosis-associated genes were measured and apoptosis index was analyzed. Embryo developmental competence was assessed in vitro and in vivo via the inner cell mass (ICM)/trophectoderm (TE) index, pregnancy and implantation rates, and birth rate. RESULTS The relative mRNA and protein expression of binding immunoglobulin protein (BIP) was significantly higher in the ICSI embryo group without TUDCA treatment (ICSI-C) than in the in vitro fertilization (IVF) group and in the ICSI embryo group with TUDCA treatment (200 μM) (ICSI-T), while TUDCA ameliorated ER stress in ICSI embryos. Embryos in the ICSI-C group showed a higher apoptosis index than those in the IVF group and ICSI-T group, and there was no significant difference between the IVF group and ICSI-T group. TUDCA can significantly improve ICSI embryo developmental competence in vitro and in vivo based on the ICM/TE index, pregnancy and implantation rates, and birth rate. CONCLUSION ICSI embryos manifested high ER stress and high apoptosis, while TUDCA ameliorated ER stress and reduced apoptosis in ICSI embryos. TUDCA can significantly improve the developmental competence of ICSI embryos in vitro and in vivo. This study provides a new idea for improving the efficiency of ICSI, and it will also have a positive effect on the development of assisted reproduction technologies for humans and other animals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tengfei Deng
- Reproductive Medical Center, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, 7 Weiwu Rd, Zhengzhou City, 450003, Henan, China.,Reproductive Medical Center, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 7 Weiwu Rd, Zhengzhou City, 450003, Henan, China.,Reproductive Medical Center, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Clinical Medicine, Henan University, 7 Weiwu Rd, Zhengzhou City, 450003, Henan, China
| | - Juanke Xie
- Reproductive Medical Center, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, 7 Weiwu Rd, Zhengzhou City, 450003, Henan, China.,Reproductive Medical Center, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 7 Weiwu Rd, Zhengzhou City, 450003, Henan, China.,Reproductive Medical Center, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Clinical Medicine, Henan University, 7 Weiwu Rd, Zhengzhou City, 450003, Henan, China
| | - Hengtao Ge
- Reproductive Medical Center, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, 7 Weiwu Rd, Zhengzhou City, 450003, Henan, China.,Reproductive Medical Center, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 7 Weiwu Rd, Zhengzhou City, 450003, Henan, China.,Reproductive Medical Center, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Clinical Medicine, Henan University, 7 Weiwu Rd, Zhengzhou City, 450003, Henan, China
| | - Qi Liu
- Reproductive Medical Center, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, 7 Weiwu Rd, Zhengzhou City, 450003, Henan, China.,Reproductive Medical Center, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 7 Weiwu Rd, Zhengzhou City, 450003, Henan, China.,Reproductive Medical Center, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Clinical Medicine, Henan University, 7 Weiwu Rd, Zhengzhou City, 450003, Henan, China
| | - Xiaobing Song
- Reproductive Medical Center, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, 7 Weiwu Rd, Zhengzhou City, 450003, Henan, China.,Reproductive Medical Center, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 7 Weiwu Rd, Zhengzhou City, 450003, Henan, China.,Reproductive Medical Center, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Clinical Medicine, Henan University, 7 Weiwu Rd, Zhengzhou City, 450003, Henan, China
| | - Lin Hu
- Reproductive Medical Center, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, 7 Weiwu Rd, Zhengzhou City, 450003, Henan, China.,Reproductive Medical Center, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 7 Weiwu Rd, Zhengzhou City, 450003, Henan, China.,Reproductive Medical Center, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Clinical Medicine, Henan University, 7 Weiwu Rd, Zhengzhou City, 450003, Henan, China
| | - Li Meng
- Reproductive Medical Center, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, 7 Weiwu Rd, Zhengzhou City, 450003, Henan, China.,Reproductive Medical Center, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 7 Weiwu Rd, Zhengzhou City, 450003, Henan, China.,Reproductive Medical Center, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Clinical Medicine, Henan University, 7 Weiwu Rd, Zhengzhou City, 450003, Henan, China.,LA IVF Clinic, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Cuilian Zhang
- Reproductive Medical Center, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, 7 Weiwu Rd, Zhengzhou City, 450003, Henan, China. .,Reproductive Medical Center, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 7 Weiwu Rd, Zhengzhou City, 450003, Henan, China. .,Reproductive Medical Center, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Clinical Medicine, Henan University, 7 Weiwu Rd, Zhengzhou City, 450003, Henan, China.
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Oseguera-López I, Ruiz-Díaz S, Ramos-Ibeas P, Pérez-Cerezales S. Novel Techniques of Sperm Selection for Improving IVF and ICSI Outcomes. Front Cell Dev Biol 2019; 7:298. [PMID: 31850340 PMCID: PMC6896825 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2019.00298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2019] [Accepted: 11/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Almost 50% of the infertility cases are due to male factors. Assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) allow to overcome the incapacity of these patients' spermatozoa to fertilize the oocyte and produce a viable and healthy offspring, but the efficiency of the different techniques has still the potential to improve. According to the latest reports of the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention of the United States (CDC), the percentages of deliveries per ART cycle in 2014 and 2016 were 21 and 22%, respectively. Among the reasons for this relatively low efficiency, the quality of the spermatozoa has been pointed out as critical, and the presence of high percentages of DNA-damaged spermatozoa in patients' ejaculates is possibly one of the main factors reducing the ARTs outcomes. Thus, one of the main challenges in reproductive medicine is to ensure the highest quality of the spermatozoa used in ARTs, and specifically, in terms of genetic integrity. The latest techniques for the preparation and selection of human spermatozoa are herein discussed focusing on those proven to improve one or several of the following parameters: sperm genetic integrity, fertilization capacity, embryo production, and in vitro survival, as well as pregnancy and delivery rates following in vitro fertilization (IVF) and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). In addition, we discuss the potential of techniques developed in non-human mammals that could be further transferred to the clinic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Sara Ruiz-Díaz
- Mistral Fertility Clinics S.L., Clínica Tambre, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Animal Reproduction, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria, Madrid, Spain
| | - Priscila Ramos-Ibeas
- Department of Animal Reproduction, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria, Madrid, Spain
| | - Serafín Pérez-Cerezales
- Department of Animal Reproduction, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria, Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Navarrete FA, Aguila L, Martin-Hidalgo D, Tourzani DA, Luque GM, Ardestani G, Garcia-Vazquez FA, Levin LR, Buck J, Darszon A, Buffone MG, Mager J, Fissore RA, Salicioni AM, Gervasi MG, Visconti PE. Transient Sperm Starvation Improves the Outcome of Assisted Reproductive Technologies. Front Cell Dev Biol 2019; 7:262. [PMID: 31750304 PMCID: PMC6848031 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2019.00262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2019] [Accepted: 10/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
To become fertile, mammalian sperm must undergo a series of biochemical and physiological changes known as capacitation. These changes involve crosstalk between metabolic and signaling pathways and can be recapitulated in vitro. In this work, sperm were incubated in the absence of exogenous nutrients (starved) until they were no longer able to move. Once immotile, energy substrates were added back to the media and sperm motility was rescued. Following rescue, a significantly higher percentage of starved sperm attained hyperactivated motility and displayed increased ability to fertilize in vitro when compared with sperm persistently incubated in standard capacitation media. Remarkably, the effects of this treatment continue beyond fertilization as starved and rescued sperm promoted higher rates of embryo development, and once transferred to pseudo-pregnant females, blastocysts derived from treated sperm produced significantly more pups. In addition, the starvation and rescue protocol increased fertilization and embryo development rates in sperm from a severely sub-fertile mouse model, and when combined with temporal increase in Ca2+ ion levels, this methodology significantly improved fertilization and embryo development rates in sperm of sterile CatSper1 KO mice model. Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) does not work in the agriculturally relevant bovine system. Here, we show that transient nutrient starvation of bovine sperm significantly enhanced ICSI success in this species. These data reveal that the conditions under which sperm are treated impact post-fertilization development and suggest that this “starvation and rescue method” can be used to improve assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) in other mammalian species, including humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Felipe A Navarrete
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Integrated Sciences Building, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA, United States
| | - Luis Aguila
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Integrated Sciences Building, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA, United States
| | - David Martin-Hidalgo
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Integrated Sciences Building, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA, United States.,Research Group of Intracellular Signaling and Technology of Reproduction, Institute of Biotechnology in Agriculture and Livestock (INBIO G + C), University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - Darya A Tourzani
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Integrated Sciences Building, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA, United States
| | - Guillermina M Luque
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Goli Ardestani
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Integrated Sciences Building, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA, United States
| | - Francisco A Garcia-Vazquez
- Department of Physiology, Veterinary School, International Excellence Campus for Higher Education and Research, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain.,Institute for Biomedical Research of Murcia, IMIB-Arrixaca, Murcia, Spain
| | - Lonny R Levin
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medical College, Cornell University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Jochen Buck
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medical College, Cornell University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Alberto Darszon
- Departamento de Genética del Desarrollo y Fisiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, Mexico
| | - Mariano G Buffone
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Jesse Mager
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Integrated Sciences Building, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA, United States
| | - Rafael A Fissore
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Integrated Sciences Building, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA, United States
| | - Ana M Salicioni
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Integrated Sciences Building, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA, United States
| | - María G Gervasi
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Integrated Sciences Building, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA, United States
| | - Pablo E Visconti
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Integrated Sciences Building, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Suvá M, Canel NG, Salamone DF. Effect of single and combined treatments with MPF or MAPK inhibitors on parthenogenetic haploid activation of bovine oocytes. Reprod Biol 2019; 19:386-393. [PMID: 31526669 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2019.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2019] [Revised: 08/16/2019] [Accepted: 09/01/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
In bovine, correct oocyte artificial activation is a key step in ICSI and other reproductive biotechnologies, and still needs to be improved. The current study was designed to compare the activating efficiency of ionomycin (Io) followed by: a 4 h time window and ethanol (4h-Et), roscovitine (Rosc), dehydroleucodine (DhL), cycloheximide (CHX) or PD0325901 (PD), each as a single treatment, and then combine them in novel protocols. Parthenogenetic haploid activation was evaluated in terms of pronuclear (PN) formation, second polar body (2PB) extrusion, ploidy of day 2 embryos and in vitro development. Combined treatments with Io-4h-Et-Rosc and Io-Rosc/CHX increased PN formation (92.2% and 96%, respectively) compared with Io-Rosc, Io-CHX or Io-4h-Et, which were equally efficient at inducing PN formation (82-84%) and 2PB extrusion (62.1-70.5%). Oocyte activation with Io-DhL and Io-Rosc/DhL resulted in higher 2PB extrusion rates (90% and 95.9%, respectively) but lower PN formation (49.4-58.8%) and cleavage rates (36-57.9%), as occurred with Io-CHX/DhL (76.4% and 70.4%, respectively). For the first time, results show that Io followed by the MAPK inhibitor PD induces PN formation and 2PB extrusion, but PD combined with Rosc or CHX resulted in low rates of haploid day 2 embryos. In conclusion, DhL strongly induces 2PB extrusion but leads to poor PN formation and embryo development. PD induces bovine oocyte activation but results in low rates of haploid embryos. In contrast, the improved PN formation rates after treatment with combined Io-4h-Et-Rosc and Io-Rosc/CHX suggest they should be further evaluated in ART, aiming to increase success rates in bovine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Suvá
- Laboratorio de Biotecnología Animal, Facultad de Agronomía, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Av. San Martín 4453, P.C. 1417, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Natalia Gabriela Canel
- Laboratorio de Biotecnología Animal, Facultad de Agronomía, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Av. San Martín 4453, P.C. 1417, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Daniel Felipe Salamone
- Laboratorio de Biotecnología Animal, Facultad de Agronomía, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Av. San Martín 4453, P.C. 1417, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Biotechnology for Wildlife. ADVANCES IN ANIMAL BIOTECHNOLOGY 2019. [PMCID: PMC7153411 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-21309-1_46] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/29/2022]
|
33
|
Sánchez-Villalba E, Arias ME, Loren P, Fuentes F, Pereyra-Bonnet F, Salamone D, Felmer R. Improved expression of green fluorescent protein in cattle embryos produced by ICSI-mediated gene transfer with spermatozoa treated with streptolysin-O. Anim Reprod Sci 2018; 196:130-137. [PMID: 30033189 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2018.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2018] [Revised: 06/26/2018] [Accepted: 07/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The ICSI-sperm mediated gene transfer (ICSI-SMGT) has been used to produce transgenic mice with high efficiency; however, the efficiency of this technique in farm animals is still less than desirable. Pretreatment of sperm with membrane destabilizing agents can improve the efficiency of ICSI in cattle. The objective of the present study was to evaluate streptolysin-O (SLO) as a novel treatment to permeabilize the bovine sperm membrane and assess its effect on efficiency of generating transgenic embryos by ICSI-SMGT. First, there was evaluation of the plasma membrane integrity (SYBR/PI), acrosome membrane integrity (PNA/FITC), DNA damage (TUNEL) and binding capacity of exogenous DNA (Nick Translation) in bull sperm treated with SLO. Subsequently, there was assessment of embryonic development and the efficiency in generating transgenic embryos with enhanced expression of the gene for green fluorescent protein (EGFP). Results indicate that SLO efficiently permeabilizes the plasma and acrosome membranes of bull spermatozoa and increases binding of exogenous DNA mostly to the post-acrosomal region and tail without greatly affecting the integrity of the DNA. Furthermore, treatment of bull spermatozoa with SLO prior to the injection of oocytes by ICSI-SMGT significantly increased the rate of embryo expression of the EGFP gene. Future experiments are still needed to determine the effect of this treatment on the development and transgene expression in fetuses and animals produced by ICSI-SMGT.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Esther Sánchez-Villalba
- Laboratory of Reproduction, Centre of Reproductive Biotechnology (CEBIOR-BIOREN), Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile; Student of Doctoral Program in Sciences in Applied Cellular and Molecular Biology, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile
| | - María Elena Arias
- Laboratory of Reproduction, Centre of Reproductive Biotechnology (CEBIOR-BIOREN), Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile; Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile
| | - Pía Loren
- Laboratory of Reproduction, Centre of Reproductive Biotechnology (CEBIOR-BIOREN), Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile; Student of Doctoral Program in Sciences in Applied Cellular and Molecular Biology, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile
| | - Fernanda Fuentes
- Laboratory of Reproduction, Centre of Reproductive Biotechnology (CEBIOR-BIOREN), Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile
| | - Federico Pereyra-Bonnet
- Basic Science and Experimental Medicine Institute, University Institute, Hospital Italiano de Buenos Aires (HIBA), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Daniel Salamone
- Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Universidad de Buenos Aires-CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Ricardo Felmer
- Laboratory of Reproduction, Centre of Reproductive Biotechnology (CEBIOR-BIOREN), Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile; Department of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Faculty of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile.
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Improved embryo development using high cysteamine concentration during IVM and sperm co-culture with COCs previous to ICSI in bovine. Theriogenology 2018; 117:26-33. [PMID: 29807255 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2018.05.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2017] [Revised: 04/25/2018] [Accepted: 05/15/2018] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
In contrast to other species, intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) in bovine remains inefficient, resulting in low embryo developmental rates. It is unclear whether such inefficiency is due to the poor response of bovine ooplasms to the injection stimulus, or to the inability of bull sperm to induce oocyte activation. In order to facilitate these events, two strategies were assessed: the use of high concentration of cysteamine [Cys] during IVM; and the selection of sperm attached to cumulus cells after incubation with COCs for ICSI. First, COCs were IVM with increasing [Cys] and subjected to IVF. Zygotes from all groups were cultured under different O2 tensions and development to blastocyst was evaluated. In a second experiment, sperm were co-cultured for 3 h with COCs and acrosome reaction was studied. Afterwards, the best IVM and IVC conditions determined on Experiment 1 were used for ICSI assay. COCs were matured for 21 h with 1 (Cys 1) or 0.1 mM Cys (Cys 0.1 groups, standard condition). In addition, COCs were incubated for ≥3 h with 16 × 106 sperm/ml and only sperm attached to cumulus cells were selected for ICSI (ICSI + Co-cult groups). After chemical activation, embryos were cultured in SOF medium under low O2 tension. Cleavage and blastocyst rates were evaluated at days 2 and 7 of IVC, respectively. Finally, the relative expression of eight genes indicators of embryo quality was compared between ICSI and IVF control blastocysts by qPCR. Cleavage rates were higher for Cys 0.1 ICSI + Co-cult and Cys 1 ICSI + Co-cult groups (n = 117, 92% and n = 116, 79%, respectively) compared to their controls (n = 132, 60% for Cys 0.1 ICSI and n = 108, 52% for Cys 1 ICSI) (p ≤ 0.05). Interestingly, the combined treatment (Cys 1 ICSI + Co-cult) showed higher blastocyst rates than all other ICSI groups (23 vs. 11, 18 and 14% for Cys 0.1 ICSI + Co-cult, Cys 1 ICSI, and Cys 0.1 ICSI, respectively) (p ≤ 0.05). Moreover, incubation with COCs increased the rates of live acrosome reacted sperm (p ≤ 0.05). The relative abundance of mRNAs coding for INFτ, CAT, DNMT1, OCT4, and HDAC3 did not differ between treatments (p ≤ 0.05). SOD2, HADC1 and HADC2 expression was higher for Cys 0.1 ICSI than for IVF embryos (p ≤ 0.05). Group Cys 1 ICSI did not differ from IVF for those three genes, neither did Cys 1 ICSI + Co-cult, except for HDAC1 (p ≤ 0.05). In conclusion, the use of 1 mM Cys during IVM and of sperm incubated with mature COCs might be a good strategy to improve ICSI outcomes in cattle.
Collapse
|
35
|
Lower blastocyst quality after conventional vs. Piezo ICSI in the horse reflects delayed sperm component remodeling and oocyte activation. J Assist Reprod Genet 2018; 35:825-840. [PMID: 29637506 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-018-1174-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2017] [Accepted: 03/27/2018] [Indexed: 10/17/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this study was to evaluate the differential effects of conventional and Piezo-driven ICSI on blastocyst development, and on sperm component remodeling and oocyte activation, in an equine model. METHODS In vitro-matured equine oocytes underwent conventional (Conv) or Piezo ICSI, the latter utilizing fluorocarbon ballast. Blastocyst development was compared between treatments to validate the model. Then, oocytes were fixed at 0, 6, or 18 h after injection, and stained for the sperm tail, acrosome, oocyte cortical granules, and chromatin. These parameters were compared between injection techniques and between sham-injected and sperm-injected oocytes among time periods. RESULTS Blastocyst rates were 39 and 40%. The nucleus number was lower, and the nuclear fragmentation rate was higher, in blastocysts produced by Conv. Cortical granule loss started at 0H after both sperm and sham injection. The acrosome was present at 0H in both ICSI treatments, and persisted to 18H in significantly more Conv than Piezo oocytes (72 vs. 21%). Sperm head area was unchanged at 6H in Conv but significantly increased at this time in Piezo; correspondingly, at 6H significantly more Conv than Piezo oocytes remained at MII (80 vs. 9.5%). Sham injection did not induce significant meiotic resumption. CONCLUSIONS These data show that Piezo ICSI is associated with more rapid sperm component remodeling and oocyte meiotic resumption after sperm injection than is conventional ICSI, and with higher embryo quality at the blastocyst stage. This suggests that there is value in exploring the Piezo technique, utilized with a non-toxic fluorocarbon ballast, for use in clinical human ICSI.
Collapse
|
36
|
O'Neill CL, Palermo GD. Celebrating the 25th birthday of intracytoplasmic sperm injection. Reproduction 2017; 154:E3-E4. [PMID: 29247080 DOI: 10.1530/rep-17-0684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2017] [Revised: 11/20/2017] [Accepted: 12/04/2017] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- C L O'Neill
- The Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive MedicineWeill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - G D Palermo
- The Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive MedicineWeill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| |
Collapse
|