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Onraet T, Zuryn S. C. elegans as a model to study mitochondrial biology and disease. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2024; 154:48-58. [PMID: 37149409 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2023.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Revised: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Mitochondria perform a myriad of essential functions that ensure organismal homeostasis, including maintaining bioenergetic capacity, sensing and signalling the presence of pathogenic threats, and determining cell fate. Their function is highly dependent on mitochondrial quality control and the appropriate regulation of mitochondrial size, shape, and distribution during an entire lifetime, as well as their inheritance across generations. The roundworm Caenorhabditis elegans has emerged as an ideal model organism through which to study mitochondria. The remarkable conservation of mitochondrial biology has allowed C. elegans researchers to investigate complex processes that are challenging to study in higher organisms. In this review, we explore the key recent contributions of C. elegans to mitochondrial biology through the lens of mitochondrial dynamics, organellar removal, and mitochondrial inheritance, as well as their involvement in immune responses, various types of stress, and transgenerational signalling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tessa Onraet
- Clem Jones Centre for Ageing Dementia Research, Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane 4072, Australia
| | - Steven Zuryn
- Clem Jones Centre for Ageing Dementia Research, Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane 4072, Australia.
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2
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Marei WFA, Mohey-Elsaeed O, Pintelon I, Leroy JLMR. Risks of using mitoquinone during in vitro maturation and its potential protective effects against lipotoxicity-induced oocyte mitochondrial stress. J Assist Reprod Genet 2024; 41:371-383. [PMID: 38146030 PMCID: PMC10894804 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-023-02994-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/27/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction play central roles in reduced oocyte quality and infertility in obese patients. Mitochondria-targeted treatments containing co-enzyme Q10 such as mitoquinone (MitoQ) can increase mitochondrial antioxidative capacity; however, their safety and efficiency when supplemented to oocytes under lipotoxic conditions have not been described. METHODS We tested the effect of different concentrations of MitoQ or its cationic carrier (TPP) (0, 0.1, 0.5, 1.0 μM each) during bovine oocyte IVM. Then, we tested the protective capacity of MitoQ (0.1 μM) against palmitic acid (PA)-induced lipotoxicity and mitochondrial dysfunction in oocytes. RESULTS Exposure to MitoQ, or TPP only, at 1 μM significantly (P<0.05) reduced oocyte mitochondrial inner membrane potential (JC-1 staining) and resulted in reduced cleavage and blastocyst rates compared with solvent control. Lower concentrations of MitoQ or TPP had no effects on embryo development under control (PA-free) conditions. As expected, PA increased the levels of MMP and ROS in oocytes (CellROX staining) and reduced cleavage and blastocyst rates compared with the controls (P<0.05). These negative effects were ameliorated by 0.1 μM MitoQ. In contrast, 0.1 μM TPP alone had no protective effects. MitoQ also normalized the expression of HSP10 and TFAM, and partially normalized HSP60 in the produced blastocysts, indicating at least a partial alleviation of PA-induced mitochondrial stress. CONCLUSION Oocyte exposure to MitoQ may disturb mitochondrial bioenergetic functions and developmental capacity due to a TPP-induced cationic overload. A fine-tuned concentration of MitoQ can protect against lipotoxicity-induced mitochondrial stress during IVM and restore developmental competence and embryo quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Waleed F A Marei
- Gamete Research Centre, Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium.
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt.
| | - Omnia Mohey-Elsaeed
- Department of Histology and Cytology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
- Laboratory of Cell Biology and Histology, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Isabel Pintelon
- Laboratory of Cell Biology and Histology, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Jo L M R Leroy
- Gamete Research Centre, Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
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Yang D, Ko E, Lim H, Lee H, Kim K, Choi M, Shin S. Persistent Organic Pollutants released from decomposed adipose tissue affect mitochondrial enzyme function in the brain and eyes other than the liver. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024; 31:10648-10660. [PMID: 38198094 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-024-31904-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/11/2024]
Abstract
Persistent organic pollutants (POPs) are toxic chemicals that can accumulate in the human body, and particularly in adipose tissue. POPs can induce metabolic diseases via mitochondrial dysfunction and can also cause cancer, obesity, and cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases. Although the effects of POPs were studied by evaluating mitochondrial function, which is fundamental in investigating the etiologies of various metabolic diseases, the physiological impact of POPs released by the decomposition of fat in adipose tissue is barely understood. Therefore, to investigate the mitochondrial dysfunction caused by POPs released from adipose tissue to other organs, zebrafish were exposed to POPs and placed into four groups: control (C), obesity control (OC), obesity control with POPs (OP), and POP exposure with obesity and caloric restriction (OPR). Next, the activities of the mitochondrial respiratory complexes and the levels of ATP production, reactive oxygen species/reactive nitrogen species (ROS/RNS), and antioxidants, such as glutathione and superoxide dismutase, were measured in the brain, eyes, and liver, as these are the major organs most susceptible to metabolic diseases. POPs released from adipose tissue showed a stronger effect than the direct effects of obesity and POPs on mitochondrial enzyme activity in the brain and eye. Released POPs increased mitochondrial complex I activity and decreased mitochondrial complex II activity compared with normal, obesity, and POP-treated conditions in the brain and eyes. However, the mitochondrial complexes' activities in the liver were affected more by obesity and POPs. In the liver, the mitochondrial enzyme activities of the OPR group seemed to recover to the control level, but it was slightly lowered in the OC and OP groups. Independently, the ROS/RNS and antioxidant levels were not affected by obesity, POPs, or the released POPs in the brain, eye, and liver. The results indicate that POPs stored in adipose tissue and released during fat decomposition did not affect oxidative stress but could affect mitochondrial respiratory enzymes in organ dependent manner. This study is meaningful in that it provides experimental evidence that stored POPs affect specific organs for prolonged periods and can be linked to various diseases in advance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongshin Yang
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, College of Engineering, Chonnam National University, 77 Yongbong-Ro, Buk-Gu, Gwangju, 61186, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun Ko
- Interdisciplinary Program of Bioenergy and Biomaterials Graduate School, College of Engineering, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, 61186, Republic of Korea
- Division of Blood and Marrow Transplantation, Department of Pediatrics, Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Hwayeon Lim
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, College of Engineering, Chonnam National University, 77 Yongbong-Ro, Buk-Gu, Gwangju, 61186, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyojin Lee
- Department of Environmental Energy Engineering, Seoul National University of Science and Technology, Seoul, 01811, Republic of Korea
| | - Kitae Kim
- Department of Environmental Energy Engineering, Seoul National University of Science and Technology, Seoul, 01811, Republic of Korea
| | - Moonsung Choi
- Department of Optometry, Seoul National University of Science and Technology, Seoul, 01811, Republic of Korea
| | - Sooim Shin
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, College of Engineering, Chonnam National University, 77 Yongbong-Ro, Buk-Gu, Gwangju, 61186, Republic of Korea.
- Interdisciplinary Program of Bioenergy and Biomaterials Graduate School, College of Engineering, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, 61186, Republic of Korea.
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Pérez-Sánchez M, Pardiñas ML, Díez-Juan A, Quiñonero A, Domínguez F, Martin A, Vidal C, Beltrán D, Mifsud A, Mercader A, Pellicer A, Cobo A, de Los Santos MJ. The effect of vitrification on blastocyst mitochondrial DNA dynamics and gene expression profiles. J Assist Reprod Genet 2023; 40:2577-2589. [PMID: 37801195 PMCID: PMC10643482 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-023-02952-3] [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: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Does vitrification/warming affect the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) content and the gene expression profile of blastocysts? METHODS Prospective cohort study in which 89 blastocysts were obtained from 50 patients between July 2017 and August 2018. mtDNA was measured in a total of 71 aneuploid blastocysts by means of real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Transcriptomic analysis was performed by RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) in an additional 8 aneuploid blastocysts cultured for 0 h after warming, and 10 aneuploid blastocysts cultured for 4-5 h after warming. RESULTS A significant decrease in mtDNA content just during the first hour after the warming process in blastocysts was found (P < 0.05). However, mtDNA content experimented a significantly increased along the later culture hours achieving the original mtDNA levels before vitrification after 4-5 h of culture (P < 0.05). Gene expression analysis and functional enrichment analysis revealed that such recovery was accompanied by upregulation of pathways associated with embryo developmental capacity and uterine embryo development. Interestingly, the significant increase in mtDNA content observed in blastocysts just after warming also coincided with the differential expression of several cellular stress response-related pathways, such as apoptosis, DNA damage, humoral immune responses, and cancer. CONCLUSION To our knowledge, this is the first study demonstrating in humans, a modulation in blastocysts mtDNA content in response to vitrification and warming. These results will be useful in understanding which pathways and mechanisms may be activated in human blastocysts following vitrification and warming before a transfer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Pérez-Sánchez
- IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Avenida Fernando Abril Martorell, 106 - Torre A, Planta 1ª, 46026, Valencia, Spain
| | - Maria Luisa Pardiñas
- IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Avenida Fernando Abril Martorell, 106 - Torre A, Planta 1ª, 46026, Valencia, Spain
| | - Antonio Díez-Juan
- Department of Research, Igenomix, Parque Tecnológico, Rda. de Narcís Monturiol, nº11, B, 46980, Paterna, Valencia, Spain
| | - Alicia Quiñonero
- IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Avenida Fernando Abril Martorell, 106 - Torre A, Planta 1ª, 46026, Valencia, Spain
| | - Francisco Domínguez
- IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Avenida Fernando Abril Martorell, 106 - Torre A, Planta 1ª, 46026, Valencia, Spain
| | - Angel Martin
- IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Avenida Fernando Abril Martorell, 106 - Torre A, Planta 1ª, 46026, Valencia, Spain
| | - Carmina Vidal
- Department of Gynaecology, IVIRMA Global, Plaça de La Policía Local, 3, Valencia, 46015, Spain
| | - Diana Beltrán
- IVF Laboratory, IVIRMA Global, Plaça de La Policía Local, 3, 46015, Valencia, Spain
| | - Amparo Mifsud
- IVF Laboratory, IVIRMA Global, Plaça de La Policía Local, 3, 46015, Valencia, Spain
| | - Amparo Mercader
- IVF Laboratory, IVIRMA Global, Plaça de La Policía Local, 3, 46015, Valencia, Spain
| | - Antonio Pellicer
- Department of Gynaecology, IVIRMA Global, Largo Ildebrando Pizzetti, 1, Rome, 00197, Italy
| | - Ana Cobo
- IVF Laboratory, IVIRMA Global, Plaça de La Policía Local, 3, 46015, Valencia, Spain
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Fan Y, Shi C, Huang N, Fang F, Tian L, Wang J. Recurrent Implantation Failure: Bioinformatic Discovery of Biomarkers and Identification of Metabolic Subtypes. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:13488. [PMID: 37686293 PMCID: PMC10487894 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241713488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Revised: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Recurrent implantation failure (RIF) is a challenging scenario from different standpoints. This study aimed to investigate its correlation with the endometrial metabolic characteristics. Transcriptomics data of 70 RIF and 99 normal endometrium tissues were retrieved from the Gene Expression Omnibus database. Common differentially expressed metabolism-related genes were extracted and various enrichment analyses were applied. Then, RIF was classified using a consensus clustering approach. Three machine learning methods were employed for screening key genes, and they were validated through the RT-qPCR experiment in the endometrium of 10 RIF and 10 healthy individuals. Receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curves were generated and validated by 20 RIF and 20 healthy individuals from Peking University People's Hospital. We uncovered 109 RIF-related metabolic genes and proposed a novel two-subtype RIF classification according to their metabolic features. Eight characteristic genes (SRD5A1, POLR3E, PPA2, PAPSS1, PRUNE, CA12, PDE6D, and RBKS) were identified, and the area under curve (AUC) was 0.902 and the external validated AUC was 0.867. Higher immune cell infiltration levels were found in RIF patients and a metabolism-related regulatory network was constructed. Our work has explored the metabolic and immune characteristics of RIF, which paves a new road to future investigation of the related pathogenic mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Fan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University People’s Hospital, Beijing 100044, China; (Y.F.); (C.S.); (N.H.); (F.F.)
- Reproductive Medical Center, Peking University People’s Hospital, Beijing 100044, China
| | - Cheng Shi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University People’s Hospital, Beijing 100044, China; (Y.F.); (C.S.); (N.H.); (F.F.)
- Reproductive Medical Center, Peking University People’s Hospital, Beijing 100044, China
| | - Nannan Huang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University People’s Hospital, Beijing 100044, China; (Y.F.); (C.S.); (N.H.); (F.F.)
- Reproductive Medical Center, Peking University People’s Hospital, Beijing 100044, China
| | - Fang Fang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University People’s Hospital, Beijing 100044, China; (Y.F.); (C.S.); (N.H.); (F.F.)
- Reproductive Medical Center, Peking University People’s Hospital, Beijing 100044, China
| | - Li Tian
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University People’s Hospital, Beijing 100044, China; (Y.F.); (C.S.); (N.H.); (F.F.)
- Reproductive Medical Center, Peking University People’s Hospital, Beijing 100044, China
| | - Jianliu Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University People’s Hospital, Beijing 100044, China; (Y.F.); (C.S.); (N.H.); (F.F.)
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Luo W, Zheng YM, Hao Y, Zhang Y, Zhou P, Wei Z, Cao Y, Chen D. Mitochondrial DNA quantification correlates with the developmental potential of human euploid blastocysts but not with that of mosaic blastocysts. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2023; 23:447. [PMID: 37322435 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-023-05760-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE We aimed to study the association between adjusted mtDNA levels in human trophectoderm biopsy samples and the developmental potential of euploid and mosaic blastocysts. METHODS We analyzed relative mtDNA levels in 2,814 blastocysts obtained from 576 couples undergoing preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy from June 2018 to June 2021. All patients underwent in vitro fertilization in a single clinic; the study was blinded-mtDNA content was unknown at the time of single embryo transfer. The fate of the euploid or mosaic embryos transferred was compared with mtDNA levels. RESULTS Euploid embryos had lower mtDNA than aneuploid and mosaic embryos. Embryos biopsied on Day 5 had higher mtDNA than those biopsied on Day 6. No difference was detected in mtDNA scores between embryos derived from oocytes of different maternal ages. Linear mixed model suggested that blastulation rate was associated with mtDNA score. Moreover, the specific next-generation sequencing platform used have a significant effect on the observed mtDNA content. Euploid embryos with higher mtDNA content presented significantly higher miscarriage rates and lower live birth rates, while no significant difference was observed in the mosaic cohort. CONCLUSION Our results will aid in improving methods for analyzing the association between mtDNA level and blastocyst viability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen Luo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No 218 Jixi Road, Hefei, 230022, Anhui, China
- Anhui Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center for Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, Anhui Medical University, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Yi-Min Zheng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No 218 Jixi Road, Hefei, 230022, Anhui, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Study On Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract (Anhui Medical University), No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Yan Hao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No 218 Jixi Road, Hefei, 230022, Anhui, China
- Anhui Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center for Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, Anhui Medical University, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Ying Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No 218 Jixi Road, Hefei, 230022, Anhui, China
| | - Ping Zhou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No 218 Jixi Road, Hefei, 230022, Anhui, China
- Anhui Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center for Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, Anhui Medical University, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Study On Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract (Anhui Medical University), No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Zhaolian Wei
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No 218 Jixi Road, Hefei, 230022, Anhui, China
- Anhui Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center for Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, Anhui Medical University, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Study On Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract (Anhui Medical University), No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Yunxia Cao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No 218 Jixi Road, Hefei, 230022, Anhui, China.
- Anhui Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center for Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, Anhui Medical University, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China.
- NHC Key Laboratory of Study On Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract (Anhui Medical University), No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China.
| | - Dawei Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No 218 Jixi Road, Hefei, 230022, Anhui, China.
- NHC Key Laboratory of Study On Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract (Anhui Medical University), No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China.
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El-Sheikh M, Mesalam A, Joo MD, Sidrat T, Mesalam AA, Kong IK. Attenuation of Oxidative Stress and Regulation of AKT Signaling by Vanillic Acid during Bovine Pre-Implantation Embryo Development. Nutrients 2023; 15:nu15102257. [PMID: 37242140 DOI: 10.3390/nu15102257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Revised: 04/30/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Vanillic acid (VA) has shown antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities in different cell types, but its biological effects in the context of early embryo development have not yet been clarified. In the current study, the impact of VA supplementation during in vitro maturation (IVM) and/or post-fertilization (in vitro culture; IVC) on redox homeostasis, mitochondrial function, AKT signaling, developmental competence, and the quality of bovine pre-implantation embryos was investigated. The results showed that dual exposure to VA during IVM and late embryo culture (IVC3) significantly improved the blastocyst development rate, reduced oxidative stress, and promoted fatty acid oxidation as well as mitochondrial activity. Additionally, the total numbers of cells and trophectoderm cells per blastocyst were higher in the VA-treated group compared to control (p < 0.05). The RT-qPCR results showed down-regulation of the mRNA of the apoptosis-specific markers and up-regulation of AKT2 and the redox homeostasis-related gene TXN in the treated group. Additionally, the immunofluorescence analysis showed high levels of pAKT-Ser473 and the fatty acid metabolism marker CPT1A in embryos developed following VA treatment. In conclusion, the study reports, for the first time, the embryotrophic effects of VA, and the potential linkage to AKT signaling pathway that could be used as an efficacious protocol in assisted reproductive technologies (ART) to improve human fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marwa El-Sheikh
- Department of Microbial Biotechnology, Biotechnology Research Institute, National Research Centre (NRC), Dokki, Cairo 12622, Egypt
| | - Ayman Mesalam
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44519, Egypt
| | - Myeong-Don Joo
- Division of Applied Life Science (BK21 Four), Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52828, Republic of Korea
| | - Tabinda Sidrat
- Division of Applied Life Science (BK21 Four), Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52828, Republic of Korea
| | - Ahmed Atef Mesalam
- Department of Therapeutic Chemistry, Pharmaceutical and Drug Industries Research Institute, National Research Centre (NRC), Dokki, Cairo 12622, Egypt
| | - Il-Keun Kong
- Division of Applied Life Science (BK21 Four), Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52828, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Agriculture and Life Science, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52828, Republic of Korea
- The King Kong Corp. Ltd., Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52828, Republic of Korea
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Vani V, Vasan SS, Adiga SK, Varsha SR, Seshagiri PB. Molecular regulators of human blastocyst development and hatching: Their significance in implantation and pregnancy outcome. Am J Reprod Immunol 2023; 89:e13635. [PMID: 36254379 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Revised: 09/10/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
In humans, blastocyst hatching and implantation events are two sequential, critically linked and rate-limiting events for a prospective pregnancy. These events are regulated by embryo-endometrium derived molecular factors which include hormones, growth factors, cytokines, immune-modulators, cell adhesion molecules and proteases. Due to poor viability of blastocysts, they fail to hatch and implant, leading to a low 'Live Birth Rates', majorly contributing to infertility. Here, embryo-derived biomarkers analysis plays a key role to assess potential biological viability of blastocysts which are capable of implantation and prospective pregnancy. Thus far, embryo-derived biomarkers examined are mostly immune-modulators which are thought to be associated with blastocyst development-implantation and progression of pregnancy, leading to live births. There is an urgent need to develop a quantitative and a reliable non-invasive approach aiding embryo selection for elective single embryo transfer and to minimize recurrent pregnancy loss and multiple pregnancies. In this article, we provide a comprehensive review on our current knowledge and understanding of potential embryo-derived molecular regulators, that is, biomarkers, of development of human blastocysts, their hatching and implantation. We discuss their potential implications in the assessment of blastocyst implantation potential and pregnancy outcome in terms of live births in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Venkatappa Vani
- Indian Institute of Science, Department of Molecular Reproduction, Development and Genetics, Sir C.V. Raman Road, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
| | | | - Satish K Adiga
- Kasturba Medical College, Department of Clinical Embryology, Manipal, Karnataka, India
| | | | - Polani B Seshagiri
- Indian Institute of Science, Department of Molecular Reproduction, Development and Genetics, Sir C.V. Raman Road, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
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Rahmawati P, Wiweko B, Boediono A. Mitochondrial DNA copy number in cumulus granulosa cells as a predictor for embryo morphokinetics and chromosome status. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2022; 69:101-111. [PMID: 36426586 DOI: 10.1080/19396368.2022.2145248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
While morphokinetic evaluation of embryos has become the most commonly used technique in IVF to select embryos for transfer, studies have demonstrated that mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) copy number is correlated with embryo viability and transfer outcomes. Correspondingly, this cohort study aims to evaluate the association between the mtDNA copy number in cumulus granulosa cells (CGCs) with embryo morphokinetic parameters and chromosomal status. Real-time PCR was employed to measure the mtDNA copy number of the 129 CGCs in samples obtained from 30 patients undergoing the IVF-IMSI program at Morula IVF Jakarta between July and October 2020. Bivariate and multiple analyses were utilized to determine its relationship with embryo morphokinetics, blastocyst yield, and chromosomal status. According to the analysis, there was a significant correlation between the mtDNA copy number and the blastocyst status after adjusting for the maternal age and sperm morphology (coefficient 0.832, p value = 0.032, RR value 2.299). Moreover, a significant link was observed between mtDNA copy number in CGC and early embryo developmental phase M1 (t2-t8), using the equation of M1 is 5.702-0.271 mtDNA copy number of CGCs + 0.017 maternal age + 0.013 sperm motility -0.115 sperm morphology (p value = 0.032). However, no correlation was found between the mtDNA copy number in CGCs with the other morphokinetic parameters (M2: tC-tEB, M3: t2-tEB, DC, RC, MN with p > 0.05), or the chromosomal status of the embryos (euploid: 139.44 ± 133.12, aneuploid: 142.40 ± 111.30, p = 0.806). In conclusion, our study suggests that mtDNA copy number in CGCs can serve as a useful biomarker for blastocyst status and early embryo developmental phase but not for chromosomal status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pitra Rahmawati
- Master Program in Biomedical Science, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
- Morula IVF Jakarta, IVF Center, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Budi Wiweko
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
- Yasmin IVF Clinic, Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo General Hospital, Jakarta, Indonesia
- Human Reproductive, Infertility and Family Planning Research Center, Indonesia Medical Education and Research Institute (IMERI), Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Arief Boediono
- Morula IVF Jakarta, IVF Center, Jakarta, Indonesia
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Pharmacology, IPB University, Bogor, Indonesia
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Yilmaz O, Jensen AM, Harboe T, Møgster M, Jensen RM, Mjaavatten O, Birkeland E, Spriet E, Sandven L, Furmanek T, Berven FS, Wargelius A, Norberg B. Quantitative proteome profiling reveals molecular hallmarks of egg quality in Atlantic halibut: impairments of transcription and protein folding impede protein and energy homeostasis during early development. BMC Genomics 2022; 23:635. [PMID: 36071374 PMCID: PMC9450261 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-022-08859-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Tandem mass tag spectrometry (TMT labeling-LC-MS/MS) was utilized to examine the global proteomes of Atlantic halibut eggs at the 1-cell-stage post fertilization. Comparisons were made between eggs judged to be of good quality (GQ) versus poor quality (BQ) as evidenced by their subsequent rates of survival for 12 days. Altered abundance of selected proteins in BQ eggs was confirmed by parallel reaction monitoring spectrometry (PRM-LC-MS/MS). Correspondence of protein levels to expression of related gene transcripts was examined via qPCR. Potential mitochondrial differences between GQ and BQ eggs were assessed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and measurements of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) levels. Results A total of 115 proteins were found to be differentially abundant between GQ and BQ eggs. Frequency distributions of these proteins indicated higher protein folding activity in GQ eggs compared to higher transcription and protein degradation activities in BQ eggs. BQ eggs were also significantly enriched with proteins related to mitochondrial structure and biogenesis. Quantitative differences in abundance of several proteins with parallel differences in their transcript levels were confirmed in egg samples obtained over three consecutive reproductive seasons. The observed disparities in global proteome profiles suggest impairment of protein and energy homeostasis related to unfolded protein response and mitochondrial stress in BQ eggs. TEM revealed BQ eggs to contain significantly higher numbers of mitochondria, but differences in corresponding genomic mtDNA (mt-nd5 and mt-atp6) levels were not significant. Mitochondria from BQ eggs were significantly smaller with a more irregular shape and a higher number of cristae than those from GQ eggs. Conclusion The results of this study indicate that BQ Atlantic halibut eggs are impaired at both transcription and translation levels leading to endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondrial disorders. Observation of these irregularities over three consecutive reproductive seasons in BQ eggs from females of diverse background, age and reproductive experience indicates that they are a hallmark of poor egg quality. Additional research is needed to discover when in oogenesis and under what circumstances these defects may arise. The prevalence of this suite of markers in BQ eggs of diverse vertebrate species also begs investigation. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12864-022-08859-0.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ozlem Yilmaz
- Institute of Marine Research, Austevoll Research Station, 5392, Storebø, Norway.
| | | | - Torstein Harboe
- Institute of Marine Research, Austevoll Research Station, 5392, Storebø, Norway
| | - Margareth Møgster
- Institute of Marine Research, Austevoll Research Station, 5392, Storebø, Norway
| | | | - Olav Mjaavatten
- Department of Biomedicine, The Proteomics Facility of the University of Bergen (PROBE), 5009, Bergen, Norway
| | - Even Birkeland
- Department of Biomedicine, The Proteomics Facility of the University of Bergen (PROBE), 5009, Bergen, Norway
| | - Endy Spriet
- Department of Biomedicine, The Molecular Imaging Center (MIC), University of Bergen, 5009, Bergen, Norway
| | - Linda Sandven
- Department of Biomedicine, The Molecular Imaging Center (MIC), University of Bergen, 5009, Bergen, Norway
| | - Tomasz Furmanek
- Institute of Marine Research, P.O. Box 1870, Nordnes, 5817, Bergen, Norway
| | - Frode S Berven
- Department of Biomedicine, The Proteomics Facility of the University of Bergen (PROBE), 5009, Bergen, Norway
| | - Anna Wargelius
- Institute of Marine Research, P.O. Box 1870, Nordnes, 5817, Bergen, Norway
| | - Birgitta Norberg
- Institute of Marine Research, Austevoll Research Station, 5392, Storebø, Norway
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11
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Arora H, Collazo I, Eisermann J, Hendon N, Kuchakulla M, Khodamoradi K, Bidhan J, Dullea A, Zucker I, Khosravizadeh Z, Shah P, Bustillo M. Association Between MitoScore, BMI, and Body Fat Percentage as a Predictive Marker for the Outcome of In-Vitro Fertilization (IVF). Cureus 2022; 14:e27367. [PMID: 36046274 PMCID: PMC9418516 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.27367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Infertility is defined as the inability to establish a pregnancy within 12 months of regular and unprotected sexual intercourse. In response to these problems, assisted reproductive techniques (ARTs) have made profound impacts on the therapeutic management of infertility. However, in-vitro fertilization (IVF) success rates are confounded by several internal and external factors. A relatively new approach to embryo assessment is known as MitoScore (Igenomix, Miami, USA). As a result, we sough to evaluate whether MitoScore can help in predicting in IVF outcomes, and to assess the relationship between MitoScore, BMI, and body fat percentage in determining the success of ARTs. Methods Using retrospective cohort, a study population consisting of 166 women aged 26-43 who were undergoing ART with pre-implantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A) was assessed to determine if MitoScore, BMI, and body fat percentage impacted IVF outcomes. Results MitoScore, BMI, and body fat percentage were significantly lower in pregnant women as compared to non-pregnant women. Furthermore, MitoScore was correlated with subclasses of IVF outcomes (delivery, biochemical pregnancy, and spontaneous abortion) and was found to be positively correlated with BMI in patients with biochemical pregnancies. Conclusion Our findings suggest that MitoScore, BMI, and body fat percentage could act as critical parameters in determining the success of ART. However, the association between MitoScore, BMI, and body fat percentage does not appear to be a significant confounding factor to determine pregnancy outcome at this stage. Still, many factors need to be considered to establish the correlation reliably.
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12
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Wang Y, Yasmin L, Li L, Gao P, Xu X, Sun X, Godbout R. DDX1 vesicles control calcium-dependent mitochondrial activity in mouse embryos. Nat Commun 2022; 13:3794. [PMID: 35778392 PMCID: PMC9249788 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-31497-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
The DEAD box protein DDX1, previously associated with 3'-end RNA processing and DNA repair, forms large aggregates in the cytoplasm of early mouse embryos. Ddx1 knockout causes stalling of embryos at the 2-4 cell stages. Here, we identify a DDX1-containing membrane-bound calcium-containing organelle with a nucleic acid core. We show that aggregates of these organelles form ring-like structures in early-stage embryos which we have named Membrane Associated RNA-containing Vesicles. We present evidence that DDX1 is required for the formation of Membrane Associated RNA-containing Vesicles which in turn regulate the spatial distribution of calcium in embryos. We find that Ddx1 knockout in early embryos disrupts calcium distribution, and increases mitochondria membrane potential, mitochondrial activity, and reactive oxygen species. Sequencing analysis of embryos from Ddx1 heterozygote crosses reveals downregulation of a subset of RNAs involved in developmental and mitochondrial processes in the embryos with low Ddx1 RNA. We propose a role for Membrane Associated RNA-containing Vesicles in calcium-controlled mitochondrial functions that are essential for embryonic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yixiong Wang
- Department of Oncology, Cross Cancer Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, T6G 1Z2, Canada
| | - Lubna Yasmin
- Department of Oncology, Cross Cancer Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, T6G 1Z2, Canada
| | - Lei Li
- Department of Oncology, Cross Cancer Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, T6G 1Z2, Canada
| | - Pinzhang Gao
- Department of Oncology, Cross Cancer Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, T6G 1Z2, Canada
| | - Xia Xu
- Department of Oncology, Cross Cancer Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, T6G 1Z2, Canada
| | - Xuejun Sun
- Department of Oncology, Cross Cancer Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, T6G 1Z2, Canada
| | - Roseline Godbout
- Department of Oncology, Cross Cancer Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, T6G 1Z2, Canada.
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Ritu G, Veerasigamani G, Ashraf M, Singh S, Laheri S, Colaco S, Modi D. Mitochondrial DNA levels in trophectodermal cells show no association with blastocyst development and pregnancy outcomes. J Hum Reprod Sci 2022; 15:82-89. [PMID: 35494207 PMCID: PMC9053345 DOI: 10.4103/jhrs.jhrs_103_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2021] [Revised: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: In patients undergoing assisted reproduction, levels of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) in the trophectodermal cells of the developing blastocyst are suggested to be associated with its ability to implant. However, discrepancies exist regarding the use of mtDNA levels as a reliable biomarker to predict outcomes of assisted reproduction. Aims: The aim of the study is to explore the association of trophectodermal mtDNA levels to determine blastocyst quality, implantation potential of blastocyst and clinical outcomes in couples who have undergone pre-implantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A). Study Setting: Private fertility centre. Study Design: Retrospective analysis. Materials and Methods: We analysed mtDNA levels in the trophectodermal cells of 287 blastocysts from 61 couples undergoing PGT-A. The levels of mtDNA were estimated by next-generation sequencing method. mtDNA levels were correlated with maternal age, blastocyst morphology, ploidy status, implantation rates, miscarriage rate and live birth rate. Statistical Analysis Used: Linear regression and one-way ANOVA with Tukey's all column comparison test. Results: The trophectodermal mtDNA levels did not correlate with maternal age. There were no significant differences in their levels in grade 1 and grade 2 blastocysts. No significant differences were seen between mtDNA levels of implanted and non-implanted blastocysts or those blastocysts that resulted in miscarriage or live birth. However, significantly lower amounts of mtDNA were seen in euploid blastocysts as compared to that in aneuploid blastocysts. Conclusion: mtDNA levels in the trophectodermal cells of the blastocyst do not associate with blastocyst quality (grade 1 and grade 2), implantation potential and clinical outcomes but can differentiate between aneuploid and euploid blastocysts. Our study does not support the use of trophectodermal mtDNA levels as a biomarker for blastocyst quality and predictor of clinical outcomes.
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Kumar K, Venturas M, Needleman DJ, Racowsky C, Wells D. Extensive analysis of mitochondrial DNA quantity and sequence variation in human cumulus cells and assisted reproduction outcomes. Hum Reprod 2021; 37:66-79. [PMID: 34755183 PMCID: PMC8730313 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deab231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Revised: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Are relative mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) content and mitochondrial genome (mtGenome) variants in human cumulus cells (CCs) associated with oocyte reproductive potential and assisted reproductive technology (ART) outcomes? SUMMARY ANSWER Neither the CC mtDNA quantity nor the presence of specific mtDNA genetic variants was associated with ART outcomes, although associations with patient body mass index (BMI) were detected, and the total number of oocytes retrieved differed between major mitochondrial haplogroups. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY CCs fulfil a vital role in the support of oocyte developmental competence. As with other cell types, appropriate cellular function is likely to rely upon adequate energy production, which in turn depends on the quantity and genetic competence of the mitochondria. mtDNA mutations can be inherited or they can accumulate in somatic cells over time, potentially contributing to aging. Such mutations may be homoplasmic (affecting all mtDNA in a cell) or they may display varying levels of heteroplasmy (affecting a proportion of the mtDNA). Currently, little is known concerning variation in CC mitochondrial genetics and how this might influence the reproductive potential of the associated oocyte. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This was a prospective observational study involving human CCs collected with 541 oocytes from 177 IVF patients. mtDNA quantity was measured in all the samples with a validated quantitative PCR method and the entire mtGenome was sequenced in a subset of 138 samples using a high-depth massively parallel sequencing approach. Associations between relative mtDNA quantity and mtGenome variants in CCs and patient age, BMI (kg/m2), infertility diagnosis and ART outcomes were investigated. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Massively parallel sequencing permitted not only the accurate detection of mutations but also the precise quantification of levels of mutations in cases of heteroplasmy. Sequence variants in the mtDNA were evaluated using Mitomaster and HmtVar to predict their potential impact. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE The relative mtDNA CC content was significantly associated with BMI. No significant associations were observed between CC mtDNA quantity and patient age, female infertility diagnosis or any ART outcome variable. mtGenome sequencing revealed 4181 genetic variants with respect to a reference genome. The COXI locus contained the least number of coding sequence variants, whereas ATPase8 had the most. The number of variants predicted to affect the ATP production differed significantly between mitochondrial macrohaplogroups. The total number of retrieved oocytes was different between the H-V and J-T as well as the U-K and J-T macrohaplogroups. There was a non-significant increase in mtDNA levels in CCs with heteroplasmic mitochondrial mutations. LARGE SCALE DATA N/A. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Although a large number of samples were analysed in this study, it was not possible to analyse all the CCs from every patient. Also, the results obtained with respect to specific clinical outcomes and macrohaplogroups should be interpreted with caution due to the smaller sample sizes when subdividing the dataset. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS These findings suggest that the analysis of mtDNA in CCs is unlikely to provide an advantage in terms of improved embryo selection during assisted reproduction cycles. Nonetheless, our data raise interesting biological questions, particularly regarding the interplay of metabolism and BMI and the association of mtDNA haplogroup with oocyte yield in ovarian stimulation cycles. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This study was funded by National Institutes of Health grant 5R01HD092550-02. D.J.N. and C.R. co-hold patent US20150346100A1 and D.J.N. holds US20170039415A1, both for metabolic imaging methods. D.W. receives support from the NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre. The remaining authors have no conflicts of interest to declare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kishlay Kumar
- Nuffield Department of Women’s & Reproductive Health, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Marta Venturas
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Daniel J Needleman
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Center for Computational Biology, Flatiron Institute, New York, NY, USA
| | - Catherine Racowsky
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham & Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Hospital Foch, Suresnes, France
| | - Dagan Wells
- Nuffield Department of Women’s & Reproductive Health, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Juno Genetics Ltd, Oxford, UK
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Vani V, Vasan SS, Adiga SK, Varsha SR, Sachdeva G, Kumar P, Seshagiri PB. Soluble human leukocyte antigen-G is a potential embryo viability biomarker and a positive predictor of live-births in humans. Am J Reprod Immunol 2021; 86:e13499. [PMID: 34766406 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2021] [Revised: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM Human infertility affects 15-20% of reproductive-age couples and it is mitigated by assisted reproductive technology (ART) approaches. Poor biological viability of embryos contributes to implantation failure and live birth rate (LBR). This study is aimed to examine whether or not embryo-secreted soluble human leukocyte antigen-G (sHLA-G) is (i) associated with developing embryos and (ii) able to predict successful pregnancy outcome. METHOD OF STUDY A retrospective, multicentric study using 539 human embryo spent medium samples (E-SMs), analysed for sHLA-G levels by ELISA. Correlation analysis was performed on sHLA-G levels with developing embryonic stages, their quality scores and pregnancy outcome in terms of LBR. RESULTS Of 539 E-SMs analysed, 445 had detectable sHLA-G (83%) with levels varying within and across clinics and, between stages of embryonic development. Levels of sHLA-G (ng/mL) were significantly (P < .05) different in E-SMs of cleavage-stage embryos versus blastocysts. There was an insignificant correlation between the sHLA-G levels and morphology scores of embryos. But, sHLA-G levels showed a positive correlation with grades of blastocysts and importantly, its levels were significantly (P < .05) higher in live-birth vis-a-vis no-birth cases. Also, levels were higher in live-births out of blastocysts-ETs versus cleavage-stage-embryo transfers. Altered levels were observed with embryos, which resulted in miscarriages. Overall, a significant (P < .0001) association of sHLA-G with live births was observed. CONCLUSION Embryo-derived sHLA-G can be a valuable embryo viability, independent, biomarker, which can predict live-birth outcome and it could be useful as an adjunct to existing criteria for elective single embryo transfer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Venkatappa Vani
- Department of Molecular Reproduction, Development and Genetics, Indian Institute of Science, Sir C.V. Raman Road, Bangalore, India
| | - Satya S Vasan
- Manipal Ankur Andrology & Reproductive Services, Bangalore, India
| | - Satish K Adiga
- Department of Clinical Embryology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, India
| | | | | | - Pratap Kumar
- Department of Reproductive Medicine & Surgery, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, India
| | - Polani B Seshagiri
- Department of Molecular Reproduction, Development and Genetics, Indian Institute of Science, Sir C.V. Raman Road, Bangalore, India
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Cecchino GN, García-Velasco JA, Rial E. Reproductive senescence impairs the energy metabolism of human luteinized granulosa cells. Reprod Biomed Online 2021; 43:779-787. [PMID: 34600856 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2021.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Revised: 07/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Female age is the single greatest factor influencing reproductive performance and granulosa cells are considered as potential biomarkers of oocyte quality. Is there an age effect on the energy metabolism of human mural granulosa cells? DESIGN Observational prospective cohort and experimental study including 127 women who had undergone IVF cycles. Women were allocated to two groups: a group of infertile patients aged over 38 years and a control group comprising oocyte donors aged less than 35 years. Individuals with pathologies that could impair fertility were excluded from both groups. Following oocyte retrieval, cumulus and granulosa cells were isolated and their bioenergetic properties (oxidative phosphorylation parameters, rate of aerobic glycolysis and adenine nucleotide concentrations) were analysed and compared. RESULTS Human mural luteinized granulosa and cumulus cells present high rates of aerobic glycolysis that cannot be increased further when mitochondrial ATP synthesis is inhibited. Addition of follicular fluid to the experimental media is necessary to reach the full respiratory capacity of the cells. Granulosa cells from aged women present lower mitochondrial respiration (12.8 ± 1.6 versus 11.2 ± 1.6 pmol O2/min/mg; P = 0.046), although mitochondrial mass is not decreased, and lower aerobic glycolysis, than those from young donors (12.9 ± 1.3 versus 10.9 ± 0.5 mpH/min/mg; P = 0.009). The concurrent decrease in the two energy supply pathways leads to a decrease in the cellular energy charge (0.87 ± 0.01 versus 0.83 ± 0.02; P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Human mural luteinized granulosa cells exhibit a reduction in their energy metabolism as women age that is likely to influence female reproductive potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gustavo Nardini Cecchino
- Department of Gynecology, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil; Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Rey Juan Carlos University, Alcorcón Madrid, Spain; IVI-Madrid, Aravaca Madrid 28023, Spain
| | - Juan Antonio García-Velasco
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Rey Juan Carlos University, Alcorcón Madrid, Spain; IVI-Madrid, Aravaca Madrid 28023, Spain
| | - Eduardo Rial
- Department of Structural and Chemical Biology, Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas Margarita Salas, CSIC, Madrid, Spain.
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Gimeno I, García-Manrique P, Carrocera S, López-Hidalgo C, Valledor L, Martín-González D, Gómez E. The Metabolic Signature of In Vitro Produced Bovine Embryos Helps Predict Pregnancy and Birth after Embryo Transfer. Metabolites 2021; 11:484. [PMID: 34436426 PMCID: PMC8399324 DOI: 10.3390/metabo11080484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2021] [Revised: 07/25/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
In vitro produced (IVP) embryos show large metabolic variability induced by breed, culture conditions, embryonic stage and sex and gamete donors. We hypothesized that the birth potential could be accurately predicted by UHPLC-MS/MS in culture medium (CM) with the discrimination of factors inducing metabolic variation. Day-6 embryos were developed in single CM (modified synthetic oviduct fluid) for 24 h and transferred to recipients as fresh (28 ETs) or frozen/thawed (58 ETs) Day-7 blastocysts. Variability was induced with seven bulls, slaughterhouse oocyte donors, culture conditions (serum + Bovine Serum Albumin [BSA] or BSA alone) prior to single culture embryonic stage records (Day-6: morula, early blastocyst, blastocyst; Day-7: expanding blastocyst; fully expanded blastocysts) and cryopreservation. Retained metabolite signals (6111) were analyzed as a function of pregnancy at Day-40, Day-62 and birth in a combinatorial block study with all fixed factors. We identified 34 accumulated metabolites through 511 blocks, 198 for birth, 166 for Day-62 and 147 for Day-40. The relative abundance of metabolites was higher within blocks from non-pregnant (460) than from pregnant (51) embryos. Taxonomy classified lipids (12 fatty acids and derivatives; 224 blocks), amino acids (12) and derivatives (3) (186 blocks), benzenoids (4; 58 blocks), tri-carboxylic acids (2; 41 blocks) and 5-Hydroxy-l-tryptophan (2 blocks). Some metabolites were effective as single biomarkers in 95 blocks (Receiver Operating Characteristic - Area Under the Curve [ROC-AUC]: 0.700-1.000). In contrast, more accurate predictions within the largest data sets were obtained with combinations of 2, 3 and 4 single metabolites in 206 blocks (ROC-AUC = 0.800-1.000). Pregnancy-prone embryos consumed more amino acids and citric acid, and depleted less lipids and cis-aconitic acid. Big metabolic differences between embryos support efficient pregnancy and birth prediction when analyzed in discriminant conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Gimeno
- Servicio Regional de Investigación y Desarrollo Agroalimentario (SERIDA), Centro de Biotecnología Animal, Camino de Rioseco 1225, 33394 Gijón, Spain; (I.G.); (S.C.); (D.M.-G.)
| | - Pablo García-Manrique
- Molecular Mass Spectrometry Unit, Scientific and Technical Services, University of Oviedo, Catedrático Rodrigo Uria s/n, 33006 Oviedo, Spain;
| | - Susana Carrocera
- Servicio Regional de Investigación y Desarrollo Agroalimentario (SERIDA), Centro de Biotecnología Animal, Camino de Rioseco 1225, 33394 Gijón, Spain; (I.G.); (S.C.); (D.M.-G.)
| | - Cristina López-Hidalgo
- Department of Organisms and Systems Biology, University Institute of Biotechnology of Asturias (IUBA), University of Oviedo, Catedrático Rodrigo Uria s/n, 33006 Oviedo, Spain; (C.L.-H.); (L.V.)
| | - Luis Valledor
- Department of Organisms and Systems Biology, University Institute of Biotechnology of Asturias (IUBA), University of Oviedo, Catedrático Rodrigo Uria s/n, 33006 Oviedo, Spain; (C.L.-H.); (L.V.)
| | - David Martín-González
- Servicio Regional de Investigación y Desarrollo Agroalimentario (SERIDA), Centro de Biotecnología Animal, Camino de Rioseco 1225, 33394 Gijón, Spain; (I.G.); (S.C.); (D.M.-G.)
| | - Enrique Gómez
- Servicio Regional de Investigación y Desarrollo Agroalimentario (SERIDA), Centro de Biotecnología Animal, Camino de Rioseco 1225, 33394 Gijón, Spain; (I.G.); (S.C.); (D.M.-G.)
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18
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Belli M, Palmerini MG, Bianchi S, Bernardi S, Khalili MA, Nottola SA, Macchiarelli G. Ultrastructure of mitochondria of human oocytes in different clinical conditions during assisted reproduction. Arch Biochem Biophys 2021; 703:108854. [PMID: 33794190 DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2021.108854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2021] [Revised: 03/12/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Infertility affects around 8% of couples with a slight change in percentage in the last years. Despite the significant efforts made in Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ARTs) in handling this disorder, oocyte quality remains a crucial factor for a positive outcome. A better understanding of the dynamics underlying oocyte maturation, fertilization, and embryo development remains one of the main areas for progress in the ARTs field. Mitochondria are believed to play an essential role in these processes. Mitochondria have a crucial part in producing energy for oocyte maturation and embryo development throughout precise cellular functions comprising Ca2+ homeostasis regulation, glycolysis, amino acid and fatty acid metabolism, and regulation of apoptosis. Recent studies suggest that mitochondrial structure, content, and function may be related to oocyte competence, embryo viability, and implantation success during ARTs. Their defects could lead to low fertilization rates and embryonic development failure. This review aimed to provide an overview of the available literature data surrounding the correlation between changes at ultrastructural level of mitochondria or correlated-mitochondrial aggregates and oocyte quality and ARTs treatments. Our reported data demonstrated that oocyte mitochondrial ultrastructural alterations could be partial or complete recovery during the early embryo stages. However, these changes could persist as quiescent during the pre-implantation embryo development, causing abnormalities that become evident only during fetal and postnatal life. These factors led to consider the mitochondria as a crucial marker of oocyte and embryo quality, as well as a strategic target for further prospective therapeutical approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Belli
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, 67100, L'Aquila, Italy.
| | - Maria Grazia Palmerini
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, 67100, L'Aquila, Italy.
| | - Serena Bianchi
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, 67100, L'Aquila, Italy.
| | - Sara Bernardi
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, 67100, L'Aquila, Italy.
| | - Mohammad Ali Khalili
- Research and Clinical Center for Infertility, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran.
| | - Stefania Annarita Nottola
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic Medicine and Orthopaedics, La Sapienza University of Rome, 00161, Rome, Italy.
| | - Guido Macchiarelli
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, 67100, L'Aquila, Italy.
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Busnelli A, Navarra A, Levi-Setti PE. Qualitative and Quantitative Ovarian and Peripheral Blood Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) Alterations: Mechanisms and Implications for Female Fertility. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 10:antiox10010055. [PMID: 33466415 PMCID: PMC7824846 DOI: 10.3390/antiox10010055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2020] [Revised: 12/24/2020] [Accepted: 12/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The reduction of female fertility over time is considered as a natural consequence of ovarian aging. The exact mechanism underlying this process is not fully elucidated. However, it is becoming increasingly evident that qualitative and quantitative mitochondrial genome alterations might play a relevant role. The former include mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) damage caused by oxidative stress, the accumulation of acquired mtDNA mutations, the effects of inherited mtDNA mutations, and alterations in the mitochondrial stress response mechanism. The latter refer to alterations in the oocytes, granuolosa cells, and embryonic cells mtDNA content. The present review aims to investigate the evidence about: (1) the effect of qualitative and quantitative mtDNA alterations on female fertility, paying particular attention to those with a pathophysiology characterized by a relevant role of oxidative stress; (2) the use of oocytes, granulosa cells (GCs), embryonic cells, and peripheral blood cells mtDNA copy number as a female fertility surrogate biomarker; (3) experimental therapies tested to try to subvert the ovarian aging process with particular reference to antioxidant treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Busnelli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, 20090 Milan, Italy
- Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, IRCCS, Department of Gynecology, Division of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Fertility Center, Rozzano, 20089 Milan, Italy; (A.N.); (P.E.L.-S.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Annalisa Navarra
- Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, IRCCS, Department of Gynecology, Division of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Fertility Center, Rozzano, 20089 Milan, Italy; (A.N.); (P.E.L.-S.)
| | - Paolo Emanuele Levi-Setti
- Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, IRCCS, Department of Gynecology, Division of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Fertility Center, Rozzano, 20089 Milan, Italy; (A.N.); (P.E.L.-S.)
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20
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Pérez-Sánchez M, Díez-Juan A, Beltrán D, Mifsud A, Mercader A, Vidal C, Labarta E, Pellicer A, Seli E, De Los Santos MJ. Mitochondrial DNA content decreases during in vitro human embryo development: insights into mitochondrial DNA variation in preimplantation embryos donated for research. F&S SCIENCE 2020; 1:36-45. [PMID: 35559739 DOI: 10.1016/j.xfss.2020.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2020] [Revised: 05/11/2020] [Accepted: 05/13/2020] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) load and variation in human oocytes and during preimplantation embryo development using specimens donated for research. DESIGN Prospective cohort study. SETTING Not applicable. PATIENTS A total of 50 in vitro fertilization patients and 11 oocyte donors whose specimens were obtained between July 2017 and July 2018. INTERVENTIONS None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES All specimens were separately collected. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction was performed with SurePlex DNA Amplification System (Illumina). Primers for the adenosine triphosphate 8 mitochondrial gene and the β-actin were used. Data were statistically analyzed by analysis of variance with the Scheffé multiple pairwise comparison for categorical variables and by linear regression for numerical variables. RESULTS Human metaphase II (MII) oocytes had significantly more total mtDNA copy number than day 3 embryos, and day 3 embryos had more total and per-cell mtDNA copy number than aneuploid blastocysts. There was a significant decrease in mtDNA content associated with failed-fertilized oocytes compared to noninseminated metaphase II oocytes. CONCLUSIONS During preimplantation development, before implantation, human embryos undergo a significant decrease in total mtDNA content and no increase in mtDNA content at the blastocyst stage. Oocytes need to carry a correct threshold of mitochondrial load in the oocyte in order to successfully fertilize. An active degradation of mtDNA before implantation occurs after fertilization takes place. These findings could be used to improve knowledge about the best embryo culture conditions and would serve as a basis for further studies addressing again the use of mtDNA content as an embryo viability marker.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Carmina Vidal
- IVIRMA, Valencia, Spain; IVI Foundation, Valencia, Spain
| | - Elena Labarta
- IVIRMA, Valencia, Spain; IVI Foundation, Valencia, Spain
| | - Antonio Pellicer
- IVI Foundation, Valencia, Spain; IVIRMA, Roma, Italy; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Valencia, Spain
| | - Emre Seli
- Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut; RMA of New Jersey, Basking Ridge, New Jersey
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21
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Zhang L, Qi X, Ning W, Shentu L, Guo T, Zhang X, Li Y, Ma Y, Yu T, Knott JG, Cao Z, Zhang Y. Single-Cell Transcriptome Profiling Revealed That Vitrification of Somatic Cloned Porcine Blastocysts Causes Substantial Perturbations in Gene Expression. Front Genet 2020; 11:640. [PMID: 32793277 PMCID: PMC7394247 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2020.00640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2020] [Accepted: 05/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ling Zhang
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Local Livestock and Poultry, Genetical Resource Conservation and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, China
| | - Xin Qi
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Local Livestock and Poultry, Genetical Resource Conservation and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, China
| | - Wei Ning
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Local Livestock and Poultry, Genetical Resource Conservation and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, China
| | - Luyan Shentu
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Local Livestock and Poultry, Genetical Resource Conservation and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, China
| | - Tenglong Guo
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Local Livestock and Poultry, Genetical Resource Conservation and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, China
| | - Xiangdong Zhang
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Local Livestock and Poultry, Genetical Resource Conservation and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, China
| | - Yunsheng Li
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Local Livestock and Poultry, Genetical Resource Conservation and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, China
| | - Yangyang Ma
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Local Livestock and Poultry, Genetical Resource Conservation and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, China
| | - Tong Yu
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Local Livestock and Poultry, Genetical Resource Conservation and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, China
| | - Jason G Knott
- Developmental Epigenetics Laboratory, Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States
| | - Zubing Cao
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Local Livestock and Poultry, Genetical Resource Conservation and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, China
| | - Yunhai Zhang
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Local Livestock and Poultry, Genetical Resource Conservation and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, China
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22
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Tang L, Li J, Fu W, Wu W, Xu J. Suppression of FADS1 induces ROS generation, cell cycle arrest, and apoptosis in melanocytes: implications for vitiligo. Aging (Albany NY) 2019; 11:11829-11843. [PMID: 31866583 PMCID: PMC6949104 DOI: 10.18632/aging.102452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2019] [Accepted: 11/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Vitiligo is a potentially serious condition characterized by loss of melanin and death of melanocytes. To identify potential therapeutic targets for vitiligo, we conducted a microarray analysis of three human vitiligo specimens and paired adjacent normal tissues. Because we found that the fatty acid desaturase 1 (FADS1) gene was downregulated in vitiligo specimens, we carried out experiments to assess its role in melanocyte replication and survival. RT-qPCR was used to verify that FADS1 expression was lower in vitiligo-affected tissues and vitiligo melanocyte PIG3V cells than in matched controls or normal human epidermal PIG1 melanocytes. In addition, CCK-8, immunofluorescence, western blot and flow cytometry assay were used to detect the proliferation and apoptosis in PIG1 cells respectively. Overexpression of FADS1 promoted proliferation of PIG3V melanocytes, while FADS1 silencing inhibited proliferation and induced cell death in PIG1 melanocytes. Increased ROS generation; induction of mitochondrial-mediated apoptosis via upregulation of Bax and active caspases 3 and 9 and downregulation of Bcl-2; and cell cycle arrest via downregulation of c-Myc and Cyclin D1 and upregulation of p21 were all enhanced after FADS1 silencing in PIG1 melanocytes. These findings implicate FADS1 downregulation in the pathogenesis of vitiligo and may open new avenues for its treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luyan Tang
- Department of Dermatology, Huashan Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
| | - Jian Li
- Department of Dermatology, Huashan Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
| | - Wenwen Fu
- Department of Dermatology, Huashan Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
| | - Wenyu Wu
- Department of Dermatology, Huashan Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
| | - Jinhua Xu
- Department of Dermatology, Huashan Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
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23
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Monaghan P, Metcalfe NB. The deteriorating soma and the indispensable germline: gamete senescence and offspring fitness. Proc Biol Sci 2019; 286:20192187. [PMID: 31847776 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2019.2187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The idea that there is an impenetrable barrier that separates the germline and soma has shaped much thinking in evolutionary biology and in many other disciplines. However, recent research has revealed that the so-called 'Weismann Barrier' is leaky, and that information is transferred from soma to germline. Moreover, the germline itself is now known to age, and to be influenced by an age-related deterioration of the soma that houses and protects it. This could reduce the likelihood of successful reproduction by old individuals, but also lead to long-term deleterious consequences for any offspring that they do produce (including a shortened lifespan). Here, we review the evidence from a diverse and multidisciplinary literature for senescence in the germline and its consequences; we also examine the underlying mechanisms responsible, emphasizing changes in mutation rate, telomere loss, and impaired mitochondrial function in gametes. We consider the effect on life-history evolution, particularly reproductive scheduling and mate choice. Throughout, we draw attention to unresolved issues, new questions to consider, and areas where more research is needed. We also highlight the need for a more comparative approach that would reveal the diversity of processes that organisms have evolved to slow or halt age-related germline deterioration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pat Monaghan
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow, Graham Kerr Building, Glasgow G12 8QQ, UK
| | - Neil B Metcalfe
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow, Graham Kerr Building, Glasgow G12 8QQ, UK
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