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Vitale F, Cacciottola L, Camboni A, Houeis L, Donnez J, Dolmans MM. Assessing the effect of adipose-tissue-derived stem cell conditioned medium on follicles and stromal cells in bovine ovarian tissue culture. Reprod Biomed Online 2024; 49:103938. [PMID: 38759499 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2024.103938] [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: 10/06/2023] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Does adipose-tissue-derived stem cell conditioned medium (ASC-CM) supplementation enhance follicle and stromal cell outcomes in vitro? DESIGN Bovine ovaries (n = 8) were sectioned and cultured in vitro for 8 days in two different groups: (i) standard culture (OT Ctrl D8); and (ii) culture with ASC-CM supplementation (OT + CM D8). Half of the culture medium was replaced every other day, and stored to measure the production of oestradiol. Follicle classification was established using haematoxylin and eosin staining. Follicle and stromal cell DNA fragmentation was assessed by TUNEL assays, while growth differentiation factor-9 (GDF-9) staining served as a marker of follicle quality. Additionally, three factors, namely vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), interleukin 6 (IL-6) and transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1), were evaluated in ASC-CM in order to appraise the potential underlying mechanisms of action of ASC. RESULTS The OT + CM D8 group showed a significantly higher proportion of secondary follicles (P = 0.02) compared with the OT Ctrl D8 group. The OT + CM D8 group also demonstrated significantly lower percentages of TUNEL-positive follicles (P = 0.014) and stromal cells (P = 0.001) compared with the OT Ctrl D8 group. Furthermore, follicles in the OT + CM D8 group exhibited a significant increase (P = 0.002) in expression of GDF-9 compared with those in the OT Ctrl D8 group, and oestradiol production was significantly higher (P = 0.04) in the OT + CM D8 group. All studied factors were found to be present in ASC-CM. VEGF and IL-6 were the most widely expressed factors, while TGF-β1 showed the lowest expression. CONCLUSIONS Addition of ASC-CM to culture medium enhances follicle survival, development and oestradiol production, and promotes the viability of stromal cells. VEGF, IL-6 and TGF-β1 could be paracrine mediators underlying the beneficial effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco Vitale
- Gynaecology Research Unit, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Luciana Cacciottola
- Gynaecology Research Unit, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Alessandra Camboni
- Gynaecology Research Unit, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium; Pathology Department, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Lara Houeis
- Gynaecology Research Unit, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Jacques Donnez
- Société de Recherche pour l'Infertilité, Brussels, Belgium; Professor Em, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Marie-Madeleine Dolmans
- Gynaecology Research Unit, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium; Gynaecology Department, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium.
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2
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da Silva FF, das Chagas Costa F, Azevedo VAN, de Assis EIT, Gomes GA, Araújo VR, de Morais SM, Rodrigues THS, Silva JRV. Croton grewioides essential oil and anethole reduce oxidative stress and improve growth of bovine primordial follicles during culture of ovarian tissue. J Pharm Pharmacol 2024:rgae093. [PMID: 39016304 DOI: 10.1093/jpp/rgae093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/18/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aims to evaluate the effects of Croton grewioides essential oil (CGEO) and anethole on follicle survival, growth, and oxidative stress in cultured bovine ovarian tissues. METHODS Ovarian tissues were cultured for 6 days in a medium supplemented with different concentrations (1, 10, 100, or 1000 µg mL-1) of CGEO or anethole and then, follicular survival and growth, collagen content, and stromal cell density in ovarian tissues cultured in vitro were evaluated by histology. The mRNA levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase 1 (GPX1), peroxirredoxin 6 (PRDX6), and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) were evaluated by real-time PCR. The activity of SOD, CAT, glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and thiol concentrations were investigated. KEY FINDINGS Ovarian tissues cultured with 1 µg mL-1 CGEO or anethole had a higher percentage of healthy follicles than those cultured in a control medium (P < .05). The 1 µg mL-1 CGEO also increased the number of stromal cells, collagen fibers, and thiol levels. Anethole (1 µg mL-1) increased CAT activity and reduced that of GPx. The activity of SOD was reduced by CGEO. In contrast, 1 µg mL-1 anethole reduced mRNA for CAT, PRDX1, and NRF2 (P < .05). In addition, 1 µg mL-1 CGEO reduced mRNA for CAT, PRDX6, and GPx1 (P < .05). CONCLUSIONS The presence of 1 µg mL-1 anethole or CGEO in a culture medium promotes follicle survival and regulates oxidative stress and the expression of mRNA and activity of antioxidant enzymes in cultured bovine ovarian tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felipe F da Silva
- Laboratory of Biotechnology and Physiology of Reproduction, Federal University of Ceara, Sobral, State of Ceará, 62042-280 Brazil
| | - Francisco das Chagas Costa
- Laboratory of Biotechnology and Physiology of Reproduction, Federal University of Ceara, Sobral, State of Ceará, 62042-280 Brazil
| | - Venância A N Azevedo
- Laboratory of Biotechnology and Physiology of Reproduction, Federal University of Ceara, Sobral, State of Ceará, 62042-280 Brazil
| | - Ernando I T de Assis
- Laboratory of Biotechnology and Physiology of Reproduction, Federal University of Ceara, Sobral, State of Ceará, 62042-280 Brazil
| | - Geovany A Gomes
- Laboratory of Phytochemical and Bioactive Products, State University Vale do Acarau, Sobral, Ceara, 62010-295 Brazil
| | - Valdevane R Araújo
- Laboratory of Physiology Reproduction, State University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Ceará, 60740-000 Brazil
| | | | - Tigressa H S Rodrigues
- Laboratory of Phytochemical and Bioactive Products, State University Vale do Acarau, Sobral, Ceara, 62010-295 Brazil
| | - José R V Silva
- Laboratory of Biotechnology and Physiology of Reproduction, Federal University of Ceara, Sobral, State of Ceará, 62042-280 Brazil
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Yan Y, Zhang H, Xu R, Luo L, Yin L, Wu H, Zhang Y, Li C, Lu S, Tang Y, Zhao X, Pan M, Wei Q, Peng S, Ma B. Single-cell sequencing reveals the transcriptional alternations of 17β-estradiol suppressing primordial follicle formation in neonatal mouse ovaries. Cell Prolif 2024:e13713. [PMID: 38988058 DOI: 10.1111/cpr.13713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2024] [Revised: 06/06/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Estrogen has been implicated in multiple biological processes, but the variation underlying estrogen-mediated primordial follicle (PF) formation remains unclear. Here, we show that 17β-estradiol (E2) treatment of neonatal mice led to the inhibition of PF formation and cell proliferation. Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) revealed that E2 treatment caused significant changes in the transcriptome of oocytes and somatic cells. E2 treatment disrupted the synchronised development of oocytes, pre-granulosa (PG) cells and stromal cells. Mechanistically, E2 treatment disrupted several signalling pathways critical to PF formation, especially down-regulating the Kitl and Smad1/3/4/5/7 expression, reducing the frequency and number of cell communication. In addition, E2 treatment influenced key gene expression, mitochondrial function of oocytes, the recruitment and maintenance of PG cells, the cell proliferation of somatic cells, as well as disordered the ovarian microenvironment. This study not only revealed insights into the regulatory role of estrogen during PF formation, but also filled in knowledge of dramatic changes in perinatal hormones, which are critical for the physiological significance of understanding hormone changes and reproductive protection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yutong Yan
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Hui Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Rui Xu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Linglin Luo
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Lu Yin
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Hao Wu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yiqian Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Chan Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Sihai Lu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yaju Tang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xiaoe Zhao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Menghao Pan
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Qiang Wei
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Sha Peng
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Baohua Ma
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
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Bomba-Warczak EK, Velez KM, Zhou LT, Guillermier C, Edassery S, Steinhauser M, Savas JN, Duncan FE. Exceptional longevity of mammalian ovarian and oocyte macromolecules throughout the reproductive lifespan. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2023.10.18.562852. [PMID: 37905022 PMCID: PMC10614913 DOI: 10.1101/2023.10.18.562852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2023]
Abstract
The mechanisms contributing to age-related deterioration of the female reproductive system are complex, but aberrant protein homeostasis is a major contributor. We elucidated the exceptionally stable proteins, structures, and macromolecules that persist in mammalian ovaries and gametes across the reproductive lifespan. Ovaries exhibit localized structural and cell-type specific enrichment of stable macromolecules in both the follicular and extrafollicular environments. Moreover, both ovaries and oocytes harbor a panel of exceptionally long-lived proteins, including cytoskeletal components, mitochondrial, and oocyte-derived proteins. The exceptional persistence of these long-lived molecules might play a critical role in both lifelong maintenance and age-dependent deterioration of reproductive tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ewa K. Bomba-Warczak
- Department of Neurology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL
| | - Karen M. Velez
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL
| | - Luhan T Zhou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL
| | | | - Seby Edassery
- Department of Neurology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL
| | - Matthew Steinhauser
- Department of Medicine, Division of Genetics, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Jeffrey N. Savas
- Department of Neurology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL
| | - Francesca E. Duncan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL
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5
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Xiao B, Dai Z, Li Z, Xu D, Yin H, Yang F, Sun N. Single-cell transcriptomic profiling unveils insights into ovarian fibrosis in obese mice. Biol Direct 2024; 19:52. [PMID: 38956667 PMCID: PMC11218254 DOI: 10.1186/s13062-024-00496-9] [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: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adiposity profoundly impacts reproductive health in both humans and animals. However, the precise subpopulations contributing to infertility under obese conditions remain elusive. RESULTS In this study, we established an obese mouse model through an eighteen-week high-fat diet regimen in adult female mice. Employing single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq), we constructed a comprehensive single-cell atlas of ovarian tissues from these mice to scrutinize the impact of obesity on the ovarian microenvironment. ScRNA-seq revealed notable alterations in the microenvironment of ovarian tissues in obese mice. Granulosa cells, stromal cells, T cells, and macrophages exhibited functional imbalances compared to the control group. We observed heightened interaction strength in the SPP1-CD44 pairing within lgfbp7+ granulosa cell subtypes and Il1bhigh monocyte subtypes in the ovarian tissues of obese mice. Moreover, the interaction strength between Il1bhigh monocyte subtypes and Pdgfrb+ stromal cell subtypes in the form of TNF - TNFrsf1α interaction was also enhanced subsequently to obesity, potentially contributing to ovarian fibrosis pathogenesis. CONCLUSIONS We propose a model wherein granulosa cells secrete SPP1 to activate monocytes, subsequently triggering TNF-α secretion by monocytes, thereby activating stromal cells and ultimately leading to the development of ovarian fibrosis. Intervening in this process may represent a promising avenue for improving clinical outcomes in fertility treatments for obese women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bang Xiao
- Department of Medical Genetics, Naval Medical University, 800 Xiang yin Road, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Zhihui Dai
- Department of Medical Genetics, Naval Medical University, 800 Xiang yin Road, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Zhixuan Li
- Translational Medicine Research Center, Medical Innovation Research Division and Fourth Medical Center of the Chinese PLA General Hospital, 51 Fu cheng Road, Beijing, 100853, China
| | - Dabing Xu
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Second Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, 415 Feng yang Road, Shanghai, 200003, China
| | - Haozan Yin
- Department of Medical Genetics, Naval Medical University, 800 Xiang yin Road, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Fu Yang
- Department of Medical Genetics, Naval Medical University, 800 Xiang yin Road, Shanghai, 200433, China.
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Second Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, 415 Feng yang Road, Shanghai, 200003, China.
| | - Ningxia Sun
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Second Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, 415 Feng yang Road, Shanghai, 200003, China.
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6
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Harasimov K, Gorry RL, Welp LM, Penir SM, Horokhovskyi Y, Cheng S, Takaoka K, Stützer A, Frombach AS, Taylor Tavares AL, Raabe M, Haag S, Saha D, Grewe K, Schipper V, Rizzoli SO, Urlaub H, Liepe J, Schuh M. The maintenance of oocytes in the mammalian ovary involves extreme protein longevity. Nat Cell Biol 2024; 26:1124-1138. [PMID: 38902423 PMCID: PMC11252011 DOI: 10.1038/s41556-024-01442-7] [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: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024]
Abstract
Women are born with all of their oocytes. The oocyte proteome must be maintained with minimal damage throughout the woman's reproductive life, and hence for decades. Here we report that oocyte and ovarian proteostasis involves extreme protein longevity. Mouse ovaries had more extremely long-lived proteins than other tissues, including brain. These long-lived proteins had diverse functions, including in mitochondria, the cytoskeleton, chromatin and proteostasis. The stable proteins resided not only in oocytes but also in long-lived ovarian somatic cells. Our data suggest that mammals increase protein longevity and enhance proteostasis by chaperones and cellular antioxidants to maintain the female germline for long periods. Indeed, protein aggregation in oocytes did not increase with age and proteasome activity did not decay. However, increasing protein longevity cannot fully block female germline senescence. Large-scale proteome profiling of ~8,890 proteins revealed a decline in many long-lived proteins of the proteostasis network in the aging ovary, accompanied by massive proteome remodeling, which eventually leads to female fertility decline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarina Harasimov
- Department of Meiosis, Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences, Göttingen, Germany
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Rebecca L Gorry
- Department of Meiosis, Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Luisa M Welp
- Bioanalytical Mass Spectrometry Group, Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences, Göttingen, Germany
- Bioanalytics Group, Department of Clinical Chemistry, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Sarah Mae Penir
- Department of Meiosis, Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Yehor Horokhovskyi
- Quantitative and Systems Biology Group, Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Shiya Cheng
- Department of Meiosis, Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Katsuyoshi Takaoka
- Department of Meiosis, Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences, Göttingen, Germany
- Laboratory of Embryology, Institute of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Alexandra Stützer
- Bioanalytical Mass Spectrometry Group, Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Ann-Sophie Frombach
- Department of Meiosis, Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Ana Lisa Taylor Tavares
- Cell Biology Division, MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Cambridge, UK
- East Anglian Medical Genetics Service, Cambridge University Hospitals, NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
| | - Monika Raabe
- Bioanalytical Mass Spectrometry Group, Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Sara Haag
- Department of Meiosis, Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences, Göttingen, Germany
- Translation Alliance Lower Saxony, Hannover, Braunschweig, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Debojit Saha
- Department of Meiosis, Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Katharina Grewe
- Department for Neuro and Sensory Physiology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
- Center for Biostructural Imaging of Neurodegeneration, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Vera Schipper
- Department of Meiosis, Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Silvio O Rizzoli
- Department for Neuro and Sensory Physiology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
- Center for Biostructural Imaging of Neurodegeneration, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Henning Urlaub
- Bioanalytical Mass Spectrometry Group, Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences, Göttingen, Germany.
- Bioanalytics Group, Department of Clinical Chemistry, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany.
- Cluster of Excellence Multiscale Bioimaging: from Molecular Machines to Networks of Excitable Cells, University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany.
| | - Juliane Liepe
- Quantitative and Systems Biology Group, Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences, Göttingen, Germany.
| | - Melina Schuh
- Department of Meiosis, Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences, Göttingen, Germany.
- Cluster of Excellence Multiscale Bioimaging: from Molecular Machines to Networks of Excitable Cells, University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany.
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7
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Guo Y, Xue L, Tang W, Xiong J, Chen D, Dai Y, Wu C, Wei S, Dai J, Wu M, Wang S. Ovarian microenvironment: challenges and opportunities in protecting against chemotherapy-associated ovarian damage. Hum Reprod Update 2024:dmae020. [PMID: 38942605 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmae020] [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: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 04/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/30/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chemotherapy-associated ovarian damage (CAOD) is one of the most feared short- and long-term side effects of anticancer treatment in premenopausal women. Accumulating detailed data show that different chemotherapy regimens can lead to disturbance of ovarian hormone levels, reduced or lost fertility, and an increased risk of early menopause. Previous studies have often focused on the direct effects of chemotherapeutic drugs on ovarian follicles, such as direct DNA damage-mediated apoptotic death and primordial follicle burnout. Emerging evidence has revealed an imbalance in the ovarian microenvironment during chemotherapy. The ovarian microenvironment provides nutritional support and transportation of signals that stimulate the growth and development of follicles, ovulation, and corpus luteum formation. The close interaction between the ovarian microenvironment and follicles can determine ovarian function. Therefore, designing novel and precise strategies to manipulate the ovarian microenvironment may be a new strategy to protect ovarian function during chemotherapy. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE This review details the changes that occur in the ovarian microenvironment during chemotherapy and emphasizes the importance of developing new therapeutics that protect ovarian function by targeting the ovarian microenvironment during chemotherapy. SEARCH METHODS A comprehensive review of the literature was performed by searching PubMed up to April 2024. Search terms included 'ovarian microenvironment' (ovarian extracellular matrix, ovarian stromal cells, ovarian interstitial, ovarian blood vessels, ovarian lymphatic vessels, ovarian macrophages, ovarian lymphocytes, ovarian immune cytokines, ovarian oxidative stress, ovarian reactive oxygen species, ovarian senescence cells, ovarian senescence-associated secretory phenotypes, ovarian oogonial stem cells, ovarian stem cells), terms related to ovarian function (reproductive health, fertility, infertility, fecundity, ovarian reserve, ovarian function, menopause, decreased ovarian reserve, premature ovarian insufficiency/failure), and terms related to chemotherapy (cyclophosphamide, lfosfamide, chlormethine, chlorambucil, busulfan, melphalan, procarbazine, cisplatin, doxorubicin, carboplatin, taxane, paclitaxel, docetaxel, 5-fluorouraci, vincristine, methotrexate, dactinomycin, bleomycin, mercaptopurine). OUTCOMES The ovarian microenvironment shows great changes during chemotherapy, inducing extracellular matrix deposition and stromal fibrosis, angiogenesis disorders, immune microenvironment disturbance, oxidative stress imbalances, ovarian stem cell exhaustion, and cell senescence, thereby lowering the quantity and quality of ovarian follicles. Several methods targeting the ovarian microenvironment have been adopted to prevent and treat CAOD, such as stem cell therapy and the use of free radical scavengers, senolytherapies, immunomodulators, and proangiogenic factors. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Ovarian function is determined by its 'seeds' (follicles) and 'soil' (ovarian microenvironment). The ovarian microenvironment has been reported to play a vital role in CAOD and targeting the ovarian microenvironment may present potential therapeutic approaches for CAOD. However, the relation between the ovarian microenvironment, its regulatory networks, and CAOD needs to be further studied. A better understanding of these issues could be helpful in explaining the pathogenesis of CAOD and creating innovative strategies for counteracting the effects exerted on ovarian function. Our aim is that this narrative review of CAOD will stimulate more research in this important field. REGISTRATION NUMBER Not applicable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yican Guo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Ministry of Education, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Liru Xue
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Ministry of Education, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Weicheng Tang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Ministry of Education, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Jiaqiang Xiong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Dan Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Ministry of Education, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Yun Dai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Ministry of Education, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Chuqing Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Ministry of Education, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Simin Wei
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Ministry of Education, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Jun Dai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Ministry of Education, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Meng Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Ministry of Education, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Shixuan Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Ministry of Education, Wuhan, Hubei, China
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8
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Amargant F, Vieira C, Pritchard MT, Duncan FE. Systemic low-dose anti-fibrotic treatment attenuates ovarian aging in the mouse. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.06.21.600035. [PMID: 38979191 PMCID: PMC11230292 DOI: 10.1101/2024.06.21.600035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/10/2024]
Abstract
The female reproductive system is one of the first to age in humans, resulting in infertility and endocrine disruptions. The aging ovary assumes a fibro-inflammatory milieu which negatively impacts gamete quantity and quality as well as ovulation. Here we tested whether the systemic delivery of anti-inflammatory (Etanercept) or anti-fibrotic (Pirfenidone) drugs attenuates ovarian aging in mice. We first evaluated the ability of these drugs to decrease the expression of fibro-inflammatory genes in primary ovarian stromal cells. Whereas Etanercept did not block Tnf expression in ovarian stromal cells, Pirfenidone significantly reduced Col1a1 expression. We then tested Pirfenidone in vivo where the drug was delivered systemically via mini-osmotic pumps for 6-weeks. Pirfenidone mitigated the age-dependent increase in ovarian fibrosis without impacting overall health parameters. Ovarian function was improved in Pirfenidone-treated mice as evidenced by increased follicle and corpora lutea number, AMH levels, and improved estrous cyclicity. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that Pirfenidone treatment resulted in an upregulation of reproductive function-related genes at 8.5 months and a downregulation of inflammatory genes at 12 months of age. These findings demonstrate that reducing the fibroinflammatory ovarian microenvironment improves ovarian function, thereby supporting modulating the ovarian environment as a therapeutic avenue to extend reproductive longevity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farners Amargant
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Carol Vieira
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Michele T Pritchard
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Therapeutics and Institute for Reproductive and Developmental Sciences University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA
| | - Francesca E Duncan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
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9
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Jiang M, Zhang GH, Yu Y, Zhao YH, Liu J, Zeng Q, Feng MY, Ye F, Xiong DS, Wang L, Zhang YN, Yu L, Wei JJ, He LB, Zhi W, Du XR, Li NJ, Han CL, Yan HQ, Zhou ZT, Miao YB, Wang W, Liu WX. De novo design of a nanoregulator for the dynamic restoration of ovarian tissue in cryopreservation and transplantation. J Nanobiotechnology 2024; 22:330. [PMID: 38862987 PMCID: PMC11167790 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-024-02602-5] [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: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024] Open
Abstract
The cryopreservation and transplantation of ovarian tissue underscore its paramount importance in safeguarding reproductive capacity and ameliorating reproductive disorders. However, challenges persist in ovarian tissue cryopreservation and transplantation (OTC-T), including the risk of tissue damage and dysfunction. Consequently, there has been a compelling exploration into the realm of nanoregulators to refine and enhance these procedures. This review embarks on a meticulous examination of the intricate anatomical structure of the ovary and its microenvironment, thereby establishing a robust groundwork for the development of nanomodulators. It systematically categorizes nanoregulators and delves deeply into their functions and mechanisms, meticulously tailored for optimizing ovarian tissue cryopreservation and transplantation. Furthermore, the review imparts valuable insights into the practical applications and obstacles encountered in clinical settings associated with OTC-T. Moreover, the review advocates for the utilization of microbially derived nanomodulators as a potent therapeutic intervention in ovarian tissue cryopreservation. The progression of these approaches holds the promise of seamlessly integrating nanoregulators into OTC-T practices, thereby heralding a new era of expansive applications and auspicious prospects in this pivotal domain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Jiang
- School of Medicine and Life Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, Sichuan, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Sichuan Provincial Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, The Affiliated Women's and Children's Hospital of Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, 610045, China
| | - Guo-Hui Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Sichuan Provincial Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, The Affiliated Women's and Children's Hospital of Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, 610045, China
| | - Yuan Yu
- School of Medicine and Life Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, Sichuan, China
| | - Yu-Hong Zhao
- School of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, 610083, China
| | - Jun Liu
- School of Medicine and Life Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, Sichuan, China
| | - Qin Zeng
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Sichuan Provincial Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, The Affiliated Women's and Children's Hospital of Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, 610045, China
| | - Meng-Yue Feng
- School of Medicine and Life Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, Sichuan, China
| | - Fei Ye
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Sichuan Provincial Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, The Affiliated Women's and Children's Hospital of Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, 610045, China
| | - Dong-Sheng Xiong
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Sichuan Provincial Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, The Affiliated Women's and Children's Hospital of Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, 610045, China
| | - Li Wang
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Sichuan Provincial Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, The Affiliated Women's and Children's Hospital of Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, 610045, China
| | - Ya-Nan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Sichuan Provincial Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, The Affiliated Women's and Children's Hospital of Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, 610045, China
| | - Ling Yu
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Sichuan Provincial Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, The Affiliated Women's and Children's Hospital of Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, 610045, China
| | - Jia-Jing Wei
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Sichuan Provincial Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, The Affiliated Women's and Children's Hospital of Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, 610045, China
| | - Li-Bing He
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Sichuan Provincial Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, The Affiliated Women's and Children's Hospital of Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, 610045, China
| | - Weiwei Zhi
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Sichuan Provincial Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, The Affiliated Women's and Children's Hospital of Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, 610045, China
| | - Xin-Rong Du
- School of Medicine and Life Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, Sichuan, China
| | - Ning-Jing Li
- School of Medicine and Life Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, Sichuan, China
| | - Chang-Li Han
- School of Medicine and Life Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, Sichuan, China
| | - He-Qiu Yan
- School of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, 610083, China
| | - Zhuo-Ting Zhou
- School of Medicine and Life Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, Sichuan, China
| | - Yang-Bao Miao
- Department of Haematology, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences & Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 610000, China.
| | - Wen Wang
- Department of Haematology, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences & Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 610000, China.
| | - Wei-Xin Liu
- School of Medicine and Life Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, Sichuan, China.
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Sichuan Provincial Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, The Affiliated Women's and Children's Hospital of Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, 610045, China.
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10
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Di Berardino C, Barceviciute U, Camerano Spelta Rapini C, Peserico A, Capacchietti G, Bernabò N, Russo V, Gatta V, Konstantinidou F, Donato M, Barboni B. High-fat diet-negative impact on female fertility: from mechanisms to protective actions of antioxidant matrices. Front Nutr 2024; 11:1415455. [PMID: 38915855 PMCID: PMC11194403 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2024.1415455] [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: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Excessive calorie intake poses a significant threat to female fertility, leading to hormonal imbalances and reproductive challenges. Overconsumption of unhealthy fats exacerbates ovarian dysfunction, with an overproduction of reactive oxygen species causing oxidative stress, impairing ovarian follicle development and leading to irregular ovulation and premature ovarian failure. Interest in biological matrices with high antioxidant properties to combat diet-related oxidative stress has grown, as they contain various bioactive factors crucial for neutralizing free radicals potentially preventing female reproductive health. This systematic review evaluates the female reproductive impact of biological matrices in mitigating oxidative damages induced by over calory habits and, in particular, high fat diets. Methods A comparative approach among mammalian models was utilized to interpret literature available data. This approach specifically investigates the antioxidant mechanisms of biological matrices on early and late ovarian folliculogenesis, under physiological and hormone-induced female reproductive cycle. Adhering to the PRISMA 2020 guidelines, only English-language publications from peer-reviewed international indexes were considered. Results The analysis of 121 publications meeting the inclusion criteria facilitated the identification of crucial components of biological matrices. These components, including carbocyclic sugars, phytonutrients, organosulfur compounds, and vitamins, were evaluated for their impact on ovarian follicle resilience, oocyte quality, and reproductive lifespan. The detrimental effects of oxidative stress on female fertility, particularly exacerbated by high saturated fat diets, are well-documented. In vivo studies across mammalian preclinical models have underscored the potential of antioxidants derived from biological matrices to mitigate diet-induced conditions. These antioxidants enhance steroidogenesis and ovarian follicle development, thereby improving oocyte quality. Additionally, discussions within these publications emphasized the clinical significance of these biological matrices, translating research findings into practical applications for female health. Conclusion Further research is essential to fully exploit the potential of these matrices in enhancing female reproduction and mitigating the effects of diets rich in fatty acids. This requires intensified in vitro studies and comprehensive collection of in vivo data before clinical trials. The promotion of ovarian resilience offers promising avenues for enhancing understanding and advancing female reproductive health world-wide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Di Berardino
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | - Urte Barceviciute
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | | | - Alessia Peserico
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | - Giulia Capacchietti
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | - Nicola Bernabò
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
- Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology (IBBC), National Research Council, Rome, Italy
| | - Valentina Russo
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | - Valentina Gatta
- Department of Psychological Health and Territorial Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, “G. d'Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
- Unit of Molecular Genetics, Center for Advanced Studies and Technology (CAST), “G. d'Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Fani Konstantinidou
- Department of Psychological Health and Territorial Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, “G. d'Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
- Unit of Molecular Genetics, Center for Advanced Studies and Technology (CAST), “G. d'Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Marisa Donato
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
- Department of Psychological Health and Territorial Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, “G. d'Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
- Unit of Molecular Genetics, Center for Advanced Studies and Technology (CAST), “G. d'Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Barbara Barboni
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
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11
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Bao S, Yin T, Liu S. Ovarian aging: energy metabolism of oocytes. J Ovarian Res 2024; 17:118. [PMID: 38822408 PMCID: PMC11141068 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-024-01427-y] [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: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/03/2024] Open
Abstract
In women who are getting older, the quantity and quality of their follicles or oocytes and decline. This is characterized by decreased ovarian reserve function (DOR), fewer remaining oocytes, and lower quality oocytes. As more women choose to delay childbirth, the decline in fertility associated with age has become a significant concern for modern women. The decline in oocyte quality is a key indicator of ovarian aging. Many studies suggest that age-related changes in oocyte energy metabolism may impact oocyte quality. Changes in oocyte energy metabolism affect adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP) production, but how related products and proteins influence oocyte quality remains largely unknown. This review focuses on oocyte metabolism in age-related ovarian aging and its potential impact on oocyte quality, as well as therapeutic strategies that may partially influence oocyte metabolism. This research aims to enhance our understanding of age-related changes in oocyte energy metabolism, and the identification of biomarkers and treatment methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shenglan Bao
- Reproductive Medical Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Tailang Yin
- Reproductive Medical Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.
| | - Su Liu
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Reproductive Immunology for Peri-Implantation, , Shenzhen Zhongshan Institute for Reproductive Medicine and Genetics, Shenzhen Zhongshan Obstetrics & Gynecology Hospital (Formerly Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital), Shenzhen, China.
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12
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Lliberos C, Richardson G, Papa A. Oncogenic Pathways and Targeted Therapies in Ovarian Cancer. Biomolecules 2024; 14:585. [PMID: 38785992 PMCID: PMC11118117 DOI: 10.3390/biom14050585] [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: 04/04/2024] [Revised: 05/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is one of the most aggressive forms of gynaecological malignancies. Survival rates for women diagnosed with OC remain poor as most patients are diagnosed with advanced disease. Debulking surgery and platinum-based therapies are the current mainstay for OC treatment. However, and despite achieving initial remission, a significant portion of patients will relapse because of innate and acquired resistance, at which point the disease is considered incurable. In view of this, novel detection strategies and therapeutic approaches are needed to improve outcomes and survival of OC patients. In this review, we summarize our current knowledge of the genetic landscape and molecular pathways underpinning OC and its many subtypes. By examining therapeutic strategies explored in preclinical and clinical settings, we highlight the importance of decoding how single and convergent genetic alterations co-exist and drive OC progression and resistance to current treatments. We also propose that core signalling pathways such as the PI3K and MAPK pathways play critical roles in the origin of diverse OC subtypes and can become new targets in combination with known DNA damage repair pathways for the development of tailored and more effective anti-cancer treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Lliberos
- Cancer Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia;
- Neil Beauglehall Department of Medical Oncology Research, Cabrini Health, Malvern, VIC 3144, Australia
| | - Gary Richardson
- Neil Beauglehall Department of Medical Oncology Research, Cabrini Health, Malvern, VIC 3144, Australia
| | - Antonella Papa
- Cancer Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia;
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13
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Del Bianco D, Gentile R, Sallicandro L, Biagini A, Quellari PT, Gliozheni E, Sabbatini P, Ragonese F, Malvasi A, D’Amato A, Baldini GM, Trojano G, Tinelli A, Fioretti B. Electro-Metabolic Coupling of Cumulus-Oocyte Complex. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5349. [PMID: 38791387 PMCID: PMC11120766 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25105349] [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: 03/30/2024] [Revised: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Oocyte-cumulus cell interaction is essential for oocyte maturation and competence. The bidirectional crosstalk network mediated by gap junctions is fundamental for the metabolic cooperation between these cells. As cumulus cells exhibit a more glycolytic phenotype, they can provide metabolic substrates that the oocyte can use to produce ATP via oxidative phosphorylation. The impairment of mitochondrial activity plays a crucial role in ovarian aging and, thus, in fertility, determining the success or failure of assisted reproductive techniques. This review aims to deepen the knowledge about the electro-metabolic coupling of the cumulus-oocyte complex and to hypothesize a putative role of potassium channel modulators in order to improve fertility, promote intracellular Ca2+ influx, and increase the mitochondrial biogenesis and resulting ATP levels in cumulus cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diletta Del Bianco
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnologies, University of Perugia, Via dell’Elce di Sotto 8, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (D.D.B.); (R.G.); (L.S.); (A.B.); (P.T.Q.); (E.G.); (P.S.); (F.R.)
| | - Rosaria Gentile
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnologies, University of Perugia, Via dell’Elce di Sotto 8, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (D.D.B.); (R.G.); (L.S.); (A.B.); (P.T.Q.); (E.G.); (P.S.); (F.R.)
- Laboratorio Interdipartimentale di Fisiopatologia della Riproduzione, Università degli Studi di Perugia, Edificio C, Piano 3 P.zza Lucio Severi, 1, Sant’Andrea delle Fratte, 06132 Perugia, Italy
| | - Luana Sallicandro
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnologies, University of Perugia, Via dell’Elce di Sotto 8, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (D.D.B.); (R.G.); (L.S.); (A.B.); (P.T.Q.); (E.G.); (P.S.); (F.R.)
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Perugia Medical School, University of Perugia, Piazza Lucio Severi 1, 06132 Perugia, Italy
| | - Andrea Biagini
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnologies, University of Perugia, Via dell’Elce di Sotto 8, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (D.D.B.); (R.G.); (L.S.); (A.B.); (P.T.Q.); (E.G.); (P.S.); (F.R.)
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Perugia Medical School, University of Perugia, Piazza Lucio Severi 1, 06132 Perugia, Italy
| | - Paola Tiziana Quellari
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnologies, University of Perugia, Via dell’Elce di Sotto 8, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (D.D.B.); (R.G.); (L.S.); (A.B.); (P.T.Q.); (E.G.); (P.S.); (F.R.)
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Perugia Medical School, University of Perugia, Piazza Lucio Severi 1, 06132 Perugia, Italy
- ASST Grande Ospedale Metropolitano Niguarda, 20162 Milano, Italy
| | - Elko Gliozheni
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnologies, University of Perugia, Via dell’Elce di Sotto 8, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (D.D.B.); (R.G.); (L.S.); (A.B.); (P.T.Q.); (E.G.); (P.S.); (F.R.)
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Perugia Medical School, University of Perugia, Piazza Lucio Severi 1, 06132 Perugia, Italy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tirana, AL1005 Tirana, Albania
| | - Paola Sabbatini
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnologies, University of Perugia, Via dell’Elce di Sotto 8, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (D.D.B.); (R.G.); (L.S.); (A.B.); (P.T.Q.); (E.G.); (P.S.); (F.R.)
| | - Francesco Ragonese
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnologies, University of Perugia, Via dell’Elce di Sotto 8, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (D.D.B.); (R.G.); (L.S.); (A.B.); (P.T.Q.); (E.G.); (P.S.); (F.R.)
- Laboratorio Interdipartimentale di Fisiopatologia della Riproduzione, Università degli Studi di Perugia, Edificio C, Piano 3 P.zza Lucio Severi, 1, Sant’Andrea delle Fratte, 06132 Perugia, Italy
| | - Antonio Malvasi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari, 70121 Bari, Italy;
| | - Antonio D’Amato
- 1st Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Bari, 70121 Bari, Italy;
| | | | - Giuseppe Trojano
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, “Madonna delle Grazie” Hospital ASM, 75100 Matera, Italy;
| | - Andrea Tinelli
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and CERICSAL (CEntro di RIcerca Clinico SALentino), Veris delli Ponti Hospital, Via Giuseppina delli Ponti, 73020 Scorrano, Lecce, Italy
| | - Bernard Fioretti
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnologies, University of Perugia, Via dell’Elce di Sotto 8, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (D.D.B.); (R.G.); (L.S.); (A.B.); (P.T.Q.); (E.G.); (P.S.); (F.R.)
- Laboratorio Interdipartimentale di Fisiopatologia della Riproduzione, Università degli Studi di Perugia, Edificio C, Piano 3 P.zza Lucio Severi, 1, Sant’Andrea delle Fratte, 06132 Perugia, Italy
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14
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Jones ASK, Hannum DF, Machlin JH, Tan A, Ma Q, Ulrich ND, Shen YC, Ciarelli M, Padmanabhan V, Marsh EE, Hammoud S, Li JZ, Shikanov A. Cellular atlas of the human ovary using morphologically guided spatial transcriptomics and single-cell sequencing. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2024; 10:eadm7506. [PMID: 38578993 PMCID: PMC10997207 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adm7506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/07/2024]
Abstract
The reproductive and endocrine functions of the ovary involve spatially defined interactions among specialized cell populations. Despite the ovary's importance in fertility and endocrine health, functional attributes of ovarian cells are largely uncharacterized. Here, we profiled >18,000 genes in 257 regions from the ovaries of two premenopausal donors to examine the functional units in the ovary. We also generated single-cell RNA sequencing data for 21,198 cells from three additional donors and identified four major cell types and four immune cell subtypes. Custom selection of sampling areas revealed distinct gene activities for oocytes, theca, and granulosa cells. These data contributed panels of oocyte-, theca-, and granulosa-specific genes, thus expanding the knowledge of molecular programs driving follicle development. Serial samples around oocytes and across the cortex and medulla uncovered previously unappreciated variation of hormone and extracellular matrix remodeling activities. This combined spatial and single-cell atlas serves as a resource for future studies of rare cells and pathological states in the ovary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea S. K. Jones
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - D. Ford Hannum
- Department of Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Jordan H. Machlin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Ansen Tan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Qianyi Ma
- Department of Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Nicole D. Ulrich
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Yu-chi Shen
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Maria Ciarelli
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Vasantha Padmanabhan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Pediatrics and Communicable Diseases, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Erica E. Marsh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Sue Hammoud
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Urology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Jun Z. Li
- Department of Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Ariella Shikanov
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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15
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Rodak O, Peris-Diaz MD, Dzięgiel P, Piotrowska A, Partyka A, Niżański W. Prolonged cold-preservation of domestic cat ovarian tissue is improved by extracellular solution but impaired by the fragmentation of ovary. Anim Reprod Sci 2024; 263:107431. [PMID: 38412765 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2024.107431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
For domestic cats ovaries, recommended cold-storage limit is 24 h in Phosphate Buffered Saline (PBS) or Dulbecco`s PBS (DPBS). Here, we attempted to verify wheatear cat ovaries may benefit from more complex solutions during prolonged cold-storage (>24 h). First, the preservation capabilities of extracellular (SP+), intracellular (UW) solutions and DPBS supplemented with glutathione (DPBS+GSH) were compared using ovary fragments from the same ovary (n=10). Intact ovary stored in DPBS served as a control. Ovaries were kept at 4 °C for 48 h, and 72 h. In the second experiment, first ovary was stored in DPBS, second in SP+ or UW solution for 48 h (n = 12). Ovaries pairs stored in DPBS for 24 h served as a control (n=8). Tissue samples were evaluated directly after cold-storage and after following 24 h in vitro culture. Ovarian follicle morphology, apoptosis rates (cleaved caspase-3, TUNEL), and follicular growth activation (Ki-67) were assessed. Ovary fragmentation impaired follicular morphology preservation upon cold-storage comparing to intact ovary. However, ovarian fragments stored in UW for 48 h and in SP+ for 72 h presented better morphology than DPBS+GSH group. Comparison of intact ovaries cold-storage for 48 h showed that SP+ provided superior follicular morphology over DPBS, and it was comparable to the outcome of 24-hour storage. No follicular activation after in vitro culture was observed. Nevertheless, tissue culture increased considerably caspase-3 cleavage and TUNEL detection. The ovary fragmentation prior to cold-storage is not recommended in domestic cats. Replacement of DPBS with SP+ solution for whole ovary and UW solution for ovarian tissue fragments improves follicular structure preservation during 48-hour cold-storage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga Rodak
- Division of Histology and Embryology, Department of Human Morphology and Embryology, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw 50-368, Poland; Department of Reproduction and Clinic of Farm Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, pl. Grunwaldzki 49, Wroclaw 50-366, Poland.
| | - Manuel David Peris-Diaz
- Department of Chemical Biology, Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Wroclaw, F. Joliot-Curie 14a, Wroclaw 50-383, Poland
| | - Piotr Dzięgiel
- Division of Histology and Embryology, Department of Human Morphology and Embryology, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw 50-368, Poland; Department of Physiotherapy, University School of Physical Education, Wroclaw 51-612, Poland
| | - Aleksandra Piotrowska
- Division of Histology and Embryology, Department of Human Morphology and Embryology, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw 50-368, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Partyka
- Department of Reproduction and Clinic of Farm Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, pl. Grunwaldzki 49, Wroclaw 50-366, Poland
| | - Wojciech Niżański
- Department of Reproduction and Clinic of Farm Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, pl. Grunwaldzki 49, Wroclaw 50-366, Poland.
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16
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Pei W, Cao X, Zhang P, Fu L, Zhou P, Liu Y, Fan Y, Xu F, Cao C, Yu Y. Spatiotemporal Transcriptome Analysis Reveals Activation of the AP1 Pathway in the Ovarian Microenvironment during the Transition from Premenopause to Postmenopause. Aging Dis 2024; 15:445-448. [PMID: 37624093 PMCID: PMC10917534 DOI: 10.14336/ad.2023.0707-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Wendi Pei
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology and Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.
| | - Xiaomin Cao
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tianjin First Central Hospital, Tianjin, China.
| | - Puyao Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology and Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.
| | - Lin Fu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology and Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.
| | - Ping Zhou
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology and Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.
| | - Ye Liu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tianjin First Central Hospital, Tianjin, China.
| | - Yong Fan
- Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Fengqin Xu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tianjin First Central Hospital, Tianjin, China.
| | - Canhui Cao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology and Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.
- Department of Gynaecologic Oncology, Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
| | - Yang Yu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology and Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.
- Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
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17
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Venkatesh SS, Wittemans LBL, Palmer DS, Baya NA, Ferreira T, Hill B, Lassen FH, Parker MJ, Reibe S, Elhakeem A, Banasik K, Bruun MT, Erikstrup C, Jensen BA, Juul A, Mikkelsen C, Nielsen HS, Ostrowski SR, Pedersen OB, Rohde PD, Sorensen E, Ullum H, Westergaard D, Haraldsson A, Holm H, Jonsdottir I, Olafsson I, Steingrimsdottir T, Steinthorsdottir V, Thorleifsson G, Figueredo J, Karjalainen MK, Pasanen A, Jacobs BM, Hubers N, Lippincott M, Fraser A, Lawlor DA, Timpson NJ, Nyegaard M, Stefansson K, Magi R, Laivuori H, van Heel DA, Boomsma DI, Balasubramanian R, Seminara SB, Chan YM, Laisk T, Lindgren CM. Genome-wide analyses identify 21 infertility loci and over 400 reproductive hormone loci across the allele frequency spectrum. MEDRXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR HEALTH SCIENCES 2024:2024.03.19.24304530. [PMID: 38562841 PMCID: PMC10984039 DOI: 10.1101/2024.03.19.24304530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Genome-wide association studies (GWASs) may help inform treatments for infertility, whose causes remain unknown in many cases. Here we present GWAS meta-analyses across six cohorts for male and female infertility in up to 41,200 cases and 687,005 controls. We identified 21 genetic risk loci for infertility (P≤5E-08), of which 12 have not been reported for any reproductive condition. We found positive genetic correlations between endometriosis and all-cause female infertility (rg=0.585, P=8.98E-14), and between polycystic ovary syndrome and anovulatory infertility (rg=0.403, P=2.16E-03). The evolutionary persistence of female infertility-risk alleles in EBAG9 may be explained by recent directional selection. We additionally identified up to 269 genetic loci associated with follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinising hormone, oestradiol, and testosterone through sex-specific GWAS meta-analyses (N=6,095-246,862). While hormone-associated variants near FSHB and ARL14EP colocalised with signals for anovulatory infertility, we found no rg between female infertility and reproductive hormones (P>0.05). Exome sequencing analyses in the UK Biobank (N=197,340) revealed that women carrying testosterone-lowering rare variants in GPC2 were at higher risk of infertility (OR=2.63, P=1.25E-03). Taken together, our results suggest that while individual genes associated with hormone regulation may be relevant for fertility, there is limited genetic evidence for correlation between reproductive hormones and infertility at the population level. We provide the first comprehensive view of the genetic architecture of infertility across multiple diagnostic criteria in men and women, and characterise its relationship to other health conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samvida S Venkatesh
- Big Data Institute, Li Ka Shing Centre for Health Information and Discovery, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7LF, United Kingdom
- Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7BN, United Kingdom
| | - Laura B L Wittemans
- Novo Nordisk Research Centre Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, Medical Sciences Division, University of Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Duncan S Palmer
- Big Data Institute, Li Ka Shing Centre for Health Information and Discovery, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7LF, United Kingdom
- Nuffield Department of Population Health, Medical Sciences Division, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Nikolas A Baya
- Big Data Institute, Li Ka Shing Centre for Health Information and Discovery, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7LF, United Kingdom
- Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7BN, United Kingdom
| | - Teresa Ferreira
- Big Data Institute, Li Ka Shing Centre for Health Information and Discovery, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7LF, United Kingdom
| | - Barney Hill
- Big Data Institute, Li Ka Shing Centre for Health Information and Discovery, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7LF, United Kingdom
- Nuffield Department of Population Health, Medical Sciences Division, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Frederik Heymann Lassen
- Big Data Institute, Li Ka Shing Centre for Health Information and Discovery, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7LF, United Kingdom
- Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7BN, United Kingdom
| | - Melody J Parker
- Big Data Institute, Li Ka Shing Centre for Health Information and Discovery, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7LF, United Kingdom
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Saskia Reibe
- Big Data Institute, Li Ka Shing Centre for Health Information and Discovery, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7LF, United Kingdom
- Nuffield Department of Population Health, Medical Sciences Division, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Ahmed Elhakeem
- MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit at the University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
- Population Health Science, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Karina Banasik
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Hvidovre, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Mie T Bruun
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - Christian Erikstrup
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Bitten A Jensen
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Anders Juul
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen; Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital-Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Christina Mikkelsen
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Science, Copenhagen University, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Henriette S Nielsen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Fertility Clinic, Hvidovre University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Sisse R Ostrowski
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ole B Pedersen
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Zealand University Hospital, Kge, Denmark
| | - Palle D Rohde
- Genomic Medicine, Department of Health Science and Technology, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Erik Sorensen
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - David Westergaard
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Hvidovre, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Asgeir Haraldsson
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Iceland, Reykjavik, Iceland
- Children's Hospital Iceland, Landspitali University Hospital, Reykjavik, Iceland
| | - Hilma Holm
- deCODE genetics/Amgen, Inc., Reykjavik, Iceland
| | - Ingileif Jonsdottir
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Iceland, Reykjavik, Iceland
- deCODE genetics/Amgen, Inc., Reykjavik, Iceland
| | - Isleifur Olafsson
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Landspitali University Hospital, Reykjavik, Iceland
| | - Thora Steingrimsdottir
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Iceland, Reykjavik, Iceland
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Landspitali University Hospital, Reykjavik, Iceland
| | | | | | - Jessica Figueredo
- Estonian Genome Centre, Institute of Genomics, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Minna K Karjalainen
- Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland, Helsinki Institute of Life Science, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Research Unit of Population Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oulu, Finland
- Northern Finland Birth Cohorts, Arctic Biobank, Infrastructure for Population Studies, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - Anu Pasanen
- Research Unit of Clinical Medicine, Medical Research Center Oulu, University of Oulu, and Department of Children and Adolescents, Oulu University Hospital, Oulu, Finland
| | - Benjamin M Jacobs
- Centre for Preventive Neurology, Wolfson Institute of Population Health, Queen Mary University London, London, EC1M 6BQ, United Kingdom
| | - Nikki Hubers
- Department of Biological Psychology, Netherlands Twin Register, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Margaret Lippincott
- Harvard Reproductive Sciences Center and Reproductive Endocrine Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Abigail Fraser
- MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit at the University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
- Population Health Science, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Deborah A Lawlor
- MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit at the University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
- Population Health Science, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Nicholas J Timpson
- MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit at the University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
- Population Health Science, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Mette Nyegaard
- Genomic Medicine, Department of Health Science and Technology, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Kari Stefansson
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Iceland, Reykjavik, Iceland
- deCODE genetics/Amgen, Inc., Reykjavik, Iceland
| | - Reedik Magi
- Estonian Genome Centre, Institute of Genomics, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Hannele Laivuori
- Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland, Helsinki Institute of Life Science, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Medical and Clinical Genetics, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tampere University Hospital, Finland
- Center for Child, Adolescent, and Maternal Health Research, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Finland
| | - David A van Heel
- Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University London, London, E1 2AT, United Kingdom
| | - Dorret I Boomsma
- Department of Biological Psychology, Netherlands Twin Register, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ravikumar Balasubramanian
- Harvard Reproductive Sciences Center and Reproductive Endocrine Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Stephanie B Seminara
- Harvard Reproductive Sciences Center and Reproductive Endocrine Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Yee-Ming Chan
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Triin Laisk
- Estonian Genome Centre, Institute of Genomics, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Cecilia M Lindgren
- Big Data Institute, Li Ka Shing Centre for Health Information and Discovery, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7LF, United Kingdom
- Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7BN, United Kingdom
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, Medical Sciences Division, University of Oxford, United Kingdom
- Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
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18
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Wilson CA, Batzel P, Postlethwait JH. Direct male development in chromosomally ZZ zebrafish. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1362228. [PMID: 38529407 PMCID: PMC10961373 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1362228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024] Open
Abstract
The genetics of sex determination varies across taxa, sometimes even within a species. Major domesticated strains of zebrafish (Danio rerio), including AB and TU, lack a strong genetic sex determining locus, but strains more recently derived from nature, like Nadia (NA), possess a ZZ male/ZW female chromosomal sex-determination system. AB fish pass through a juvenile ovary stage, forming oocytes that survive in fish that become females but die in fish that become males. To understand mechanisms of gonad development in NA zebrafish, we studied histology and single cell transcriptomics in developing ZZ and ZW fish. ZW fish developed oocytes by 22 days post-fertilization (dpf) but ZZ fish directly formed testes, avoiding a juvenile ovary phase. Gonads of some ZW and WW fish, however, developed oocytes that died as the gonad became a testis, mimicking AB fish, suggesting that the gynogenetically derived AB strain is chromosomally WW. Single-cell RNA-seq of 19dpf gonads showed similar cell types in ZZ and ZW fish, including germ cells, precursors of gonadal support cells, steroidogenic cells, interstitial/stromal cells, and immune cells, consistent with a bipotential juvenile gonad. In contrast, scRNA-seq of 30dpf gonads revealed that cells in ZZ gonads had transcriptomes characteristic of testicular Sertoli, Leydig, and germ cells while ZW gonads had granulosa cells, theca cells, and developing oocytes. Hematopoietic and vascular cells were similar in both sex genotypes. These results show that juvenile NA zebrafish initially develop a bipotential gonad; that a factor on the NA W chromosome, or fewer than two Z chromosomes, is essential to initiate oocyte development; and without the W factor, or with two Z doses, NA gonads develop directly into testes without passing through the juvenile ovary stage. Sex determination in AB and TU strains mimics NA ZW and WW zebrafish, suggesting loss of the Z chromosome during domestication. Genetic analysis of the NA strain will facilitate our understanding of the evolution of sex determination mechanisms.
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19
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Taelman J, Czukiewska SM, Moustakas I, Chang YW, Hillenius S, van der Helm T, van der Meeren LE, Mei H, Fan X, Chuva de Sousa Lopes SM. Characterization of the human fetal gonad and reproductive tract by single-cell transcriptomics. Dev Cell 2024; 59:529-544.e5. [PMID: 38295793 PMCID: PMC10898717 DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel.2024.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2022] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
During human fetal development, sex differentiation occurs not only in the gonads but also in the adjacent developing reproductive tract. However, while the cellular composition of male and female human fetal gonads is well described, that of the adjacent developing reproductive tract remains poorly characterized. Here, we performed single-cell transcriptomics on male and female human fetal gonads together with the adjacent developing reproductive tract from first and second trimesters, highlighting the morphological and molecular changes during sex differentiation. We validated different cell populations of the developing reproductive tract and gonads and compared the molecular signatures between the first and second trimesters, as well as between sexes, to identify conserved and sex-specific features. Together, our study provides insights into human fetal sex-specific gonadogenesis and development of the reproductive tract beyond the gonads.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasin Taelman
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZC Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Sylwia M Czukiewska
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZC Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Ioannis Moustakas
- Sequencing Analysis Support Core, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZC Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Yolanda W Chang
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZC Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Sanne Hillenius
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZC Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Talia van der Helm
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZC Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Lotte E van der Meeren
- Department of Pathology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZC Leiden, the Netherlands; Department of Pathology, Erasmus Medical Center, 3015 GD Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Hailiang Mei
- Sequencing Analysis Support Core, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZC Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Xueying Fan
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZC Leiden, the Netherlands.
| | - Susana M Chuva de Sousa Lopes
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZC Leiden, the Netherlands; Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, 9000 Ghent, Belgium.
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20
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Li S, Li Y, Sun Y, Feng G, Yang Z, Yan X, Gao X, Jiang Y, Du Y, Zhao S, Zhao H, Chen ZJ. Deconvolution at the single-cell level reveals ovarian cell-type-specific transcriptomic changes in PCOS. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2024; 22:24. [PMID: 38373962 PMCID: PMC10875798 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-024-01195-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/21/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common reproductive endocrine disorders in females of childbearing age. Various types of ovarian cells work together to maintain normal reproductive function, whose discordance often takes part in the development and progression of PCOS. Understanding the cellular heterogeneity and compositions of ovarian cells would provide insight into PCOS pathogenesis, but are, however, not well understood. Transcriptomic characterization of cells isolated from PCOS cases have been assessed using bulk RNA-seq but cells isolated contain a mixture of many ovarian cell types. METHODS Here we utilized the reference scRNA-seq data from human adult ovaries to deconvolute and estimate cell proportions and dysfunction of ovarian cells in PCOS, by integrating various granulosa cells(GCs) transcriptomic data. RESULTS We successfully defined 22 distinct cell clusters of human ovarian cells. Then after transcriptome integration, we obtained a gene expression matrix with 13,904 genes within 30 samples (15 control vs. 15 PCOS). Subsequent deconvolution analysis revealed decreased proportion of small antral GCs and increased proportion of KRT8high mural GCs, HTRA1high cumulus cells in PCOS, especially increased differentiation from small antral GCs to KRT8high mural GCs. For theca cells, the abundance of internal theca cells (TCs) and external TCs was both increased. Less TCF21high stroma cells (SCs) and more STARhigh SCs were observed. The proportions of NK cells and monocytes were decreased, and T cells occupied more in PCOS and communicated stronger with inTCs and exTCs. In the end, we predicted the candidate drugs which could be used to correct the proportion of ovarian cells in patients with PCOS. CONCLUSIONS Taken together, this study provides insights into the molecular alterations and cellular compositions in PCOS ovarian tissue. The findings might contribute to our understanding of PCOS pathophysiology and offer resource for PCOS basic research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shumin Li
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Yimeng Li
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Research Unit of Gametogenesis and Health of ART-Offspring, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No.2021RU001), Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Yu Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Research Unit of Gametogenesis and Health of ART-Offspring, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No.2021RU001), Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Gengchen Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Research Unit of Gametogenesis and Health of ART-Offspring, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No.2021RU001), Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Ziyi Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Research Unit of Gametogenesis and Health of ART-Offspring, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No.2021RU001), Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Xueqi Yan
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Research Unit of Gametogenesis and Health of ART-Offspring, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No.2021RU001), Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Xueying Gao
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Yonghui Jiang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Yanzhi Du
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
| | - Shigang Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
- Research Unit of Gametogenesis and Health of ART-Offspring, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No.2021RU001), Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
| | - Han Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
- Research Unit of Gametogenesis and Health of ART-Offspring, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No.2021RU001), Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
| | - Zi-Jiang Chen
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
- Research Unit of Gametogenesis and Health of ART-Offspring, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No.2021RU001), Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
- Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China.
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21
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Sistani MN, Zavareh S, Valojerdi MR, Salehnia M. Reconstruction of ovarian follicular-like structure by recellularization of a cell-free human ovarian scaffold with mouse fetal ovarian cells. Cytotechnology 2024; 76:27-38. [PMID: 38304626 PMCID: PMC10828258 DOI: 10.1007/s10616-023-00595-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
The present study assessed the supportive roles of the decellularized human ovarian tissue in homing of mouse fetal ovarian cells into the scaffold as well as the formation of the follicular-like structure. The human ovarian cortical tissues were decellularized by three freeze-thaw cycles and then, treated with Triton X-100 for 15 h and 0.5% sodium dodecyl sulfate for 72 h. After isolation and preparation of mouse fetal ovarian cells (19 dpc) they were seeded into the decellularized scaffolds and cultured for 7 days, then using a light microscope, laser confocal scanning microscope, and scanning electron microscope these scaffolds were studied. Analysis of gene expression related to oocyte and follicular cells such as Ddx4, Nobox, Gdf9, and Connexin37 was assessed by real-time RT-PCR and the DDX4 and GDF9 proteins were detected by immunohistochemistry. The result showed that the human ovarian tissue was decellularized properly and the tissue elements and integrity were well preserved. After 7 days of in vitro culture, the fetal ovarian cells attached and penetrated into different sites and depths of the scaffold. The formed organoid within the scaffold showed large round, small polyhedral, and elongated spindle cells similar to the follicle structure. The molecular analysis and immunohistochemistry were confirmed an increase in the expression of genes and proteins related to oocyte and follicular cells in these reconstructed structures. In conclusion, the recellularization of human ovarian scaffolds by mouse fetal ovarian cells could support the follicular-like structure formation and it provides an in vitro model for follicle reconstitution and offers an alternative approach for clinical usage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Nezhad Sistani
- Anatomy Department, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, 14115-111, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saeed Zavareh
- School of Biology, Damghan University, Damghan, Iran
| | | | - Mojdeh Salehnia
- Anatomy Department, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, 14115-111, Tehran, Iran
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22
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Zhou C, Guo Q, Lin J, Wang M, Zeng Z, Li Y, Li X, Xiang Y, Liang Q, Liu J, Wu T, Zeng Y, He S, Wang S, Zeng H, Liang X. Single-Cell Atlas of Human Ovaries Reveals The Role Of The Pyroptotic Macrophage in Ovarian Aging. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2305175. [PMID: 38036420 PMCID: PMC10811476 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202305175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
Female fecundity declines in a nonlinear manner with age during the reproductive years, even as ovulatory cycles continue, which reduces female fertility, disrupts metabolic homeostasis, and eventually induces various chronic diseases. Despite this, the aging-related cellular and molecular changes in human ovaries that occur during these reproductive years have not been elucidated. Here, single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) of human ovaries is performed from different childbearing ages and reveals that the activation of the pyroptosis pathway increased with age, mainly in macrophages. The enrichment of pyroptotic macrophages leads to a switch from a tissue-resident macrophage (TRM)-involve immunoregulatory microenvironment in young ovaries to a pyroptotic monocyte-derived macrophage (MDM)-involved proinflammatory microenvironment in middle-aged ovaries. This remolded ovarian immuno-microenvironment further promotes stromal cell senescence and accelerated reproductive decline. This hypothesis is validated in a series of cell and animal experiments using GSDMD-KO mice. In conclusion, the work expands the current understanding of the ovarian aging process by illustrating a pyroptotic macrophage-involved immune mechanism, which has important implications for the development of novel strategies to delay senescence and promote reproductive health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuanchuan Zhou
- Center of Reproductive MedicineThe Sixth Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdong510080China
- GuangDong Engineering Technology Research Center of Fertility PreservationGuangzhouGuangdong510080China
- Biomedical Innovation CenterThe Sixth Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdong510080China
| | - Qi Guo
- Center of Reproductive MedicineThe Sixth Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdong510080China
- GuangDong Engineering Technology Research Center of Fertility PreservationGuangzhouGuangdong510080China
- Biomedical Innovation CenterThe Sixth Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdong510080China
| | - Jiayu Lin
- Center of Reproductive MedicineThe Sixth Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdong510080China
- Department of Obstetrics and GynaecologyLi Ka Shing Faculty of MedicineThe University of Hong KongHong Kong S.A.R.999077China
| | - Meng Wang
- Center of Reproductive MedicineThe Sixth Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdong510080China
- Reproductive Medicine CenterThe First People's Hospital of FoshanFoshan528000China
| | - Zhi Zeng
- Center of Reproductive MedicineThe Sixth Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdong510080China
- GuangDong Engineering Technology Research Center of Fertility PreservationGuangzhouGuangdong510080China
- Biomedical Innovation CenterThe Sixth Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdong510080China
| | - Yujie Li
- Center of Reproductive MedicineThe Sixth Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdong510080China
- GuangDong Engineering Technology Research Center of Fertility PreservationGuangzhouGuangdong510080China
- Biomedical Innovation CenterThe Sixth Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdong510080China
| | - Xiaolan Li
- Center of Reproductive MedicineThe Sixth Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdong510080China
- GuangDong Engineering Technology Research Center of Fertility PreservationGuangzhouGuangdong510080China
| | - Yuting Xiang
- Center of Reproductive MedicineThe Sixth Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdong510080China
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyAffiliated Dongguan HospitalSouthern Medical UniversityDongguan523795China
| | - Qiqi Liang
- Center of Reproductive MedicineThe Sixth Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdong510080China
- GuangDong Engineering Technology Research Center of Fertility PreservationGuangzhouGuangdong510080China
- Biomedical Innovation CenterThe Sixth Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdong510080China
| | - Jiawen Liu
- Center of Reproductive MedicineThe Sixth Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdong510080China
- GuangDong Engineering Technology Research Center of Fertility PreservationGuangzhouGuangdong510080China
- Biomedical Innovation CenterThe Sixth Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdong510080China
| | - Taibao Wu
- Center of Reproductive MedicineThe Sixth Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdong510080China
- GuangDong Engineering Technology Research Center of Fertility PreservationGuangzhouGuangdong510080China
- Biomedical Innovation CenterThe Sixth Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdong510080China
| | - Yanyan Zeng
- Center of Reproductive MedicineThe Sixth Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdong510080China
- GuangDong Engineering Technology Research Center of Fertility PreservationGuangzhouGuangdong510080China
- Biomedical Innovation CenterThe Sixth Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdong510080China
| | - Shanyang He
- Department of GynecologyGuangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences)Southern Medical UniversityGuangzhou519041China
| | - Sanfeng Wang
- Department of GynecologyGuangdong Women and Children Hospital521 Xing Nan RoadGuangzhouGuangdong511400China
| | - Haitao Zeng
- Center of Reproductive MedicineThe Sixth Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdong510080China
- GuangDong Engineering Technology Research Center of Fertility PreservationGuangzhouGuangdong510080China
- Biomedical Innovation CenterThe Sixth Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdong510080China
| | - Xiaoyan Liang
- Center of Reproductive MedicineThe Sixth Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdong510080China
- GuangDong Engineering Technology Research Center of Fertility PreservationGuangzhouGuangdong510080China
- Biomedical Innovation CenterThe Sixth Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdong510080China
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23
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Grubliauskaitė M, Vlieghe H, Moghassemi S, Dadashzadeh A, Camboni A, Gudlevičienė Ž, Amorim CA. Influence of ovarian stromal cells on human ovarian follicle growth in a 3D environment. Hum Reprod Open 2023; 2024:hoad052. [PMID: 38204939 PMCID: PMC10776356 DOI: 10.1093/hropen/hoad052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Revised: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Do ovarian stromal cells (OSCs) influence the viability and growth of human preantral follicles in vitro? SUMMARY ANSWER A feeder layer of OSCs promotes the growth and transition of low developmental stage follicles to the primary/secondary stage while maintaining a high proportion of viable follicles. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY In the ovary, follicles rely on the support of ovarian cells, which secrete essential factors for their survival and development. This phenomenon has also been demonstrated in vitro through the 3D culture of isolated mouse primary and secondary follicles on a feeder layer of OSCs. This co-culture notably enhances follicle survival and growth. STUDY DESIGN SIZE DURATION Pre-antral follicles were isolated from human frozen-thawed ovarian tissue biopsies and then encapsulated in 1% alginate scaffolds. These embedded preantral follicles were either placed directly on the OSCs feeder layer or at the bottom of a culture dish for a 7-day in vitro culture (control). The study compared follicle viability, growth, and hormone production between the different groups. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS SETTING METHODS Primordial/intermediate and primary follicles were isolated from frozen-thawed ovarian tissue of cancer patients (n = 6). OSCs were then isolated from ovarian tissue of post-menopausal women and cultured as a feeder layer. Follicle diameter was measured on Days 0 and 7 using an inverted microscope to assess their development based on the increase in diameter. Viability was evaluated by staining a subset of follicles (n = 87) with calcein AM and ethidium homodimer-I, followed by classification into healthy/minimally damaged and damaged/dead follicles using confocal fluorescence microscopy. Additionally, estradiol levels were measured using ELISA. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE A total of 382 human preantral follicles (370 primordial/intermediate and 12 primary) with a mean diameter of 40.8 ± 9.9 µm (mean ± SD) were isolated, embedded in 1% alginate hydrogel, and placed either on a monolayer of OSCs or directly on the plastic. By Day 7, the preantral follicles showed a significant size increase under both culture conditions (P < 0.0001 for D0 vs D7). The mean diameter of follicles (quiescent and growing) cultured on the feeder layer was 80.6 ± 11.0 μm compared to 67.3 ± 7.2 μm without it (P = 0.07). During the 7-day in vitro culture, the viability of the follicles significantly decreased only in the group without an OSCs monolayer compared to the D0 viability (P < 0.05). Additionally, more follicles transitioned to a higher developmental stage in the presence of OSCs (D0 primordial/intermediate: 184, primary: 7 vs D7 primordial/intermediate: 51, primary/secondary: 93) compared to those cultured without OSCs (D0 primordial/intermediate: 186, primary: 5 vs D7 primordial/intermediate: 84, primary/secondary: 65; P < 0.001). Specifically, 66 and 44 follicles reached the secondary stage (75< x <200 μm) in the presence and absence of OSCs, respectively. Moreover, the estradiol level was significantly higher (P = 0.006) in the alginate beads containing primordial and growing follicles cultured on the OSCs (54.1 ± 14.2 pg/ml) compared to those cultured without OSCs (29.9 ± 4.0 pg/ml). LARGE SCALE DATA N/A. LIMITATIONS REASONS FOR CAUTION This study was conducted using a short-term culture, and none of the primordial/intermediate/primary follicles reached the antral stage. Further in vitro studies are required to investigate follicular developmental capacity, physiology, and steroidogenesis in alginate scaffolds with human OSCs. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Activating and growing human primordial/intermediate follicles to a secondary stage in in vitro short-term culture has posed a longstanding challenge. However, co-culturing with human OSCs has shown the potential to overcome this limitation. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS This study was supported by grants from the Fonds National de la Recherche Scientifique de Belgique (FNRS-PDR Convention grant number T.0004.20 awarded to C.A.A., PhD scholarship awarded to H.V.), Fondation Louvain (awarded to C.A.A.; PhD scholarship awarded to S.M., as part of a legacy from Mr Frans Heyes, and PhD scholarship awarded to A.D. as part of a legacy from Mrs Ilse Schirmer), Foundation Against Cancer (grant 2018-042 awarded to A.C.), and the European Community Structural Funds and Lithuanian Research Council (Agreement registration No. D-19-0874). The authors have no conflicts of interest to declare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Grubliauskaitė
- Institute of Biochemistry, Life Sciences Center, Vilnius University, Vilnius, Lithuania
- Department of Biobank, National Cancer Institute, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Hanne Vlieghe
- Pôle de Recherche en Physiopathologie de la Reproduction, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Saeid Moghassemi
- Pôle de Recherche en Physiopathologie de la Reproduction, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Arezoo Dadashzadeh
- Pôle de Recherche en Physiopathologie de la Reproduction, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Alessandra Camboni
- Pôle de Recherche en Gynécologie, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium
- Anatomopathology Department, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium
| | | | - Christiani A Amorim
- Pôle de Recherche en Physiopathologie de la Reproduction, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium
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24
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Shen L, Liu J, Luo A, Wang S. The stromal microenvironment and ovarian aging: mechanisms and therapeutic opportunities. J Ovarian Res 2023; 16:237. [PMID: 38093329 PMCID: PMC10717903 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-023-01300-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
For decades, most studies of ovarian aging have focused on its functional units, known as follicles, which include oocytes and granulosa cells. However, in the ovarian stroma, there are a variety of somatic components that bridge the gap between general aging and ovarian senescence. Physiologically, general cell types, microvascular structures, extracellular matrix, and intercellular molecules affect folliculogenesis and corpus luteum physiology alongside the ovarian cycle. As a result of damage caused by age-related metabolite accumulation and external insults, the microenvironment of stromal cells is progressively remodeled, thus inevitably perturbing ovarian physiology. With the established platforms for follicle cryopreservation and in vitro maturation and the development of organoid research, it is desirable to develop strategies to improve the microenvironment of the follicle by targeting the perifollicular environment. In this review, we summarize the role of stromal components in ovarian aging, describing their age-related alterations and associated effects. Moreover, we list some potential techniques that may mitigate ovarian aging based on their effect on the stromal microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Shen
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Junfeng Liu
- Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Aiyue Luo
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
| | - Shixuan Wang
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
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25
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Maruyama N, Fukunaga I, Kogo T, Endo T, Fujii W, Kanai-Azuma M, Naito K, Sugiura K. Accumulation of senescent cells in the stroma of aged mouse ovary. J Reprod Dev 2023; 69:328-336. [PMID: 37926520 PMCID: PMC10721854 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2023-021] [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: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Senescent cells play a detrimental role in age-associated pathogenesis by producing factors involved in senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP). The present study was conducted to examine the possibility that senescent cells are present in aged ovaries and, if so, to determine the tissue region where senescent cells accumulate using a mouse model. Female mice at 2-4 and 8-10 months were used as reproductively young and aged models, respectively; the latter included mice with and without reproductive experience. Cells positive for senescence-associated β-galactosidase (SA-β-Gal) staining, one of the markers of cellular senescence, were detected in the stromal region of aged, but not young, ovaries regardless of reproductive experience. Likewise, the localization of cells expressing CDKN2A (cyclin dependent kinase inhibitor 2A), another senescence marker, in the stromal region of aged ovaries was detected with immunohistochemistry. CDKN2A expression detected by western blotting was significantly higher in the ovaries of aged mice with reproductive experience than in those without the experience. Moreover, cells positive for both γH2AX (a senescence marker) and fluorescent SA-β-Gal staining were present in those isolated from aged ovaries. In addition, the transcript levels of several SASP factors were significantly increased in aged ovaries. These results suggest that senescent cells accumulate in the ovarian stroma and may affect ovarian function in aged mice. Additionally, reproductive experience may promote accumulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natsumi Maruyama
- Department of Animal Resource Sciences, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Isuzu Fukunaga
- Department of Animal Resource Sciences, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tomoaki Kogo
- Department of Animal Resource Sciences, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tsutomu Endo
- Department of Animal Resource Sciences, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Experimental Animal Model for Human Disease, Center for Experimental Animals, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Wataru Fujii
- Department of Animal Resource Sciences, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
- Present address: Department of Veterinary Medical Science, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masami Kanai-Azuma
- Department of Experimental Animal Model for Human Disease, Center for Experimental Animals, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kunihiko Naito
- Department of Animal Resource Sciences, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Koji Sugiura
- Department of Animal Resource Sciences, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
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26
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Jia L, Wang W, Liang J, Niu S, Wang Y, Yang J, Li L, Wang G, Xu X, Mu L, Cheng K, Yang X, Wang Y, Luo H, Xia G, Ke Y, Zhang Y, Zhang H. Analyzing the cellular and molecular atlas of ovarian mesenchymal cells provides a strategy against female reproductive aging. SCIENCE CHINA. LIFE SCIENCES 2023; 66:2818-2836. [PMID: 37460714 DOI: 10.1007/s11427-022-2335-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023]
Abstract
Ovarian mesenchymal cells (oMCs) constitute a distinct microenvironment that supports folliculogenesis under physiological conditions. Supplementation of exogenous non-ovarian mesenchymal-related cells has been reported to be an efficient approach to improve ovarian functions. However, the development and cellular and molecular characteristics of endogenous oMCs remain largely unexplored. In this study, we surveyed the single-cell transcriptomic landscape to dissect the cellular and molecular changes associated with the aging of oMCs in mice. Our results showed that the oMCs were composed of five ovarian differentiated MC (odMC) populations and one ovarian mesenchymal progenitor (oMP) cell population. These cells could differentiate into various odMCs via an oMP-derived route to construct the ovarian stroma structures. Comparative analysis revealed that ovarian aging was associated with decreased quantity of oMP cells and reduced quality of odMCs. Based on the findings of bioinformatics analysis, we designed different strategies involving supplementation with young oMCs to examine their effects on female fertility and health. Our functional investigations revealed that oMCs supplementation prior to ovarian senescence was the optimal method to improve female fertility and extend the reproductive lifespan of aged females in the long-term.
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Affiliation(s)
- Longzhong Jia
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Wenji Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
- School of Life Sciences, Taizhou University, Taizhou, 318000, China
| | - Jing Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Shudong Niu
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Yibo Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Jian Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Lingyu Li
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Ge Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Xueqiang Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Lu Mu
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Kaixin Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Xuebing Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Yijing Wang
- National Institute of Biological Sciences, Beijing, 102206, China
| | - Haoshu Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Guoliang Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
- Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education for Conservation and Utilization of Special Biological Resources in Western China, College of Life Science, Ningxia University, Yinchuan, 750021, China
| | - Yuwen Ke
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China.
| | - Yan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China.
| | - Hua Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China.
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27
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Wei F, Fan X, del Valle JS, Asseler JD, van der Meeren LE, Cheng H, Roelen BAJ, Louwe LA, Pilgram GSK, van der Westerlaken LAJ, van Mello NM, Chuva de Sousa Lopes SM. Classification of Atretic Small Antral Follicles in the Human Ovary. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16846. [PMID: 38069168 PMCID: PMC10706134 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242316846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2023] [Accepted: 11/25/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The reproductive lifespan in humans is regulated by a delicate cyclical balance between follicular recruitment and atresia in the ovary. The majority of the small antral follicles present in the ovary are progressively lost through atresia without reaching dominance, but this process remains largely underexplored. In our study, we investigated the characteristics of atretic small antral follicles and proposed a classification system based on molecular changes observed in granulosa cells, theca cells, and extracellular matrix deposition. Our findings revealed that atresia spreads in the follicle with wave-like dynamics, initiating away from the cumulus granulosa cells. We also observed an enrichment of CD68+ macrophages in the antrum during the progression of follicular atresia. This work not only provides criteria for classifying three stages of follicular atresia in small antral follicles in the human ovary but also serves as a foundation for understanding follicular degeneration and ultimately preventing or treating premature ovarian failure. Understanding follicular remodeling in the ovary could provide a means to increase the number of usable follicles and delay the depletion of the follicular reserve, increasing the reproductive lifespan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fu Wei
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZC Leiden, The Netherlands; (F.W.); (X.F.); (J.S.d.V.)
| | - Xueying Fan
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZC Leiden, The Netherlands; (F.W.); (X.F.); (J.S.d.V.)
| | - Julieta S. del Valle
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZC Leiden, The Netherlands; (F.W.); (X.F.); (J.S.d.V.)
| | - Joyce D. Asseler
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (J.D.A.); (N.M.v.M.)
- Amsterdam UMC, Centre of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Lotte E. van der Meeren
- Department of Pathology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZC Leiden, The Netherlands;
- Department of Pathology, Erasmus Medical Center, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Hui Cheng
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZC Leiden, The Netherlands; (F.W.); (X.F.); (J.S.d.V.)
| | - Bernard A. J. Roelen
- Anatomy and Physiology, Department Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 1, 3584 CL Utrecht, The Netherlands;
| | - Leoni A. Louwe
- Department of Gynaecology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands; (L.A.L.); (G.S.K.P.); (L.A.J.v.d.W.)
| | - Gonneke S. K. Pilgram
- Department of Gynaecology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands; (L.A.L.); (G.S.K.P.); (L.A.J.v.d.W.)
| | | | - Norah M. van Mello
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (J.D.A.); (N.M.v.M.)
- Amsterdam UMC, Centre of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Susana M. Chuva de Sousa Lopes
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZC Leiden, The Netherlands; (F.W.); (X.F.); (J.S.d.V.)
- Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
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Ge T, Wen Y, Li B, Huang X, Jiang S, Zhang E. Single-cell sequencing reveals the reproductive variations between primiparous and multiparous Hu ewes. J Anim Sci Biotechnol 2023; 14:144. [PMID: 37964337 PMCID: PMC10644470 DOI: 10.1186/s40104-023-00941-1] [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: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the modern sheep production systems, the reproductive performance of ewes determines the economic profitability of farming. Revealing the genetic mechanisms underlying differences in the litter size is important for the selection and breeding of highly prolific ewes. Hu sheep, a high-quality Chinese sheep breed, is known for its high fecundity and is often used as a model to study prolificacy traits. In the current study, animals were divided into two groups according to their delivery rates in three consecutive lambing seasons (namely, the high and low reproductive groups with ≥ 3 lambs and one lamb per season, n = 3, respectively). The ewes were slaughtered within 12 h of estrus, and unilateral ovarian tissues were collected and analyzed by 10× Genomics single-cell RNA sequencing. RESULTS A total of 5 types of somatic cells were identified and corresponding expression profiles were mapped in the ovaries of each group. Noticeably, the differences in the ovary somatic cell expression profiles between the high and low reproductive groups were mainly clustered in the granulosa cells. Furthermore, four granulosa cell subtypes were identified. GeneSwitches analysis revealed that the abundance of JPH1 expression and the reduction of LOC101112291 expression could lead to different evolutionary directions of the granulosa cells. Additionally, the expression levels of FTH1 and FTL in mural granulosa cells of the highly reproductive group were significantly higher. These genes inhibit necroptosis and ferroptosis of mural granulosa cells, which helps prevent follicular atresia. CONCLUSIONS This study provides insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying the high fecundity of Hu sheep. The differences in gene expression profiles, particularly in the granulosa cells, suggest that these cells play a critical role in female prolificacy. The findings also highlight the importance of genes such as JPH1, LOC101112291, FTH1, and FTL in regulating granulosa cell function and follicular development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Ge
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, China
| | - Yifan Wen
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, China
| | - Bo Li
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, China
| | - Xiaoyu Huang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, China
| | - Shaohua Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, China
| | - Enping Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, China.
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29
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Tang M, Zhao M, Shi Y. New insight into the role of macrophages in ovarian function and ovarian aging. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1282658. [PMID: 38027176 PMCID: PMC10662485 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1282658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Macrophages (MΦs) are the most abundant leukocytes in mammalian ovaries that have heterogeneity and plasticity. A body of evidence has indicated that these cells are important in maintaining ovarian homeostasis and they play critical roles in ovarian physiological events, such as folliculogenesis, ovulation, corpus luteum formation and regression. As females age, ovarian tissue microenvironment is typified by chronic inflammation with exacerbated ovarian fibrosis. In response to specific danger signals within aged ovaries, macrophages polarize into different M1 or M2 phenotypes, and specialize in unique functions to participate in the ovarian aging process. In this review, we will focus on the physiologic roles of MΦs in normal ovarian functions. Furthermore, we will discuss the roles of MΦs in the process of ovarian senescence, as well as the novel techniques applied in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maoxing Tang
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Manzhi Zhao
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuhua Shi
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
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30
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Maurya S, Tripathi S, Singh A. Ontogeny of adropin and its receptor expression during postnatal development and its pro-gonadal role in the ovary of pre-pubertal mouse. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2023; 234:106404. [PMID: 37743028 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2023.106404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Revised: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
Adropin, a highly conserved multifunctional peptide hormone, has a beneficial effect on the maintenance of gluco-lipid homeostasis, endothelial and cardiovascular functions. However, the expression and potential role of adropin in ovarian function are not fully elucidated. The present study aimed to investigate the expression of adropin and GPR19 in the mice ovary during various stages of postnatal development. This study also explored whether the treatment of adropin can modulate the timing of puberty, for which pre-pubertal mice were treated with adropin. The result showed the intense immunoreactivity of adropin in TICs, while GPR19 immunoreactivity was noted in GCs in infantile, pre-pubertal, and pubertal mice ovary. Also, adropin and GPR19 are highly expressed in the CL of the ovary of reproductively active mice. The fact that adropin expression in the ovary at different stages of postnatal development positively correlated with circulating progesterone and estradiol indicated that it has a role in the production of steroid hormones. Furthermore, the results of in vivo studies in pre-pubertal mice showed that adropin promotes early folliculogenesis by enhancing the proliferation (PCNA) of GCs of cortical ovarian follicles and promotes estradiol production by enhancing the expression of GPR19, StAR, CYP11A1 and aromatase proteins. Also, adropin treatment increases the Bax/Bcl2 ratio and expression of cleaved caspase-3 and ERα proteins, which may result in increased apoptosis of medullary follicles leading to the formation of a well-developed interstitium with interstitial glandular cells. Collectively, these findings indicate that adropin may be a factor that accelerates pubertal development in the ovary and could be utilized as a therapeutic approach for treating pubertal delay.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shweta Maurya
- Department of Zoology, Institute of Science, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi 221005, India
| | - Shashank Tripathi
- Department of Zoology, Institute of Science, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi 221005, India
| | - Ajit Singh
- Department of Zoology, Institute of Science, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi 221005, India.
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31
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Dipali SS, King CD, Rose JP, Burdette JE, Campisi J, Schilling B, Duncan FE. Proteomic quantification of native and ECM-enriched mouse ovaries reveals an age-dependent fibro-inflammatory signature. Aging (Albany NY) 2023; 15:10821-10855. [PMID: 37899138 PMCID: PMC10637783 DOI: 10.18632/aging.205190] [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: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/31/2023]
Abstract
The ovarian microenvironment becomes fibrotic and stiff with age, in part due to increased collagen and decreased hyaluronan. However, the extracellular matrix (ECM) is a complex network of hundreds of proteins, glycoproteins, and glycans which are highly tissue specific and undergo pronounced changes with age. To obtain an unbiased and comprehensive profile of age-associated alterations to the murine ovarian proteome and ECM, we used a label-free quantitative proteomic methodology. We validated conditions to enrich for the ECM prior to proteomic analysis. Following analysis by data-independent acquisition (DIA) and quantitative data processing, we observed that both native and ECM-enriched ovaries clustered separately based on age, indicating distinct age-dependent proteomic signatures. We identified a total of 4,721 proteins from both native and ECM-enriched ovaries, of which 383 proteins were significantly altered with advanced age, including 58 ECM proteins. Several ECM proteins upregulated with age have been associated with fibrosis in other organs, but to date their roles in ovarian fibrosis are unknown. Pathways regulating DNA metabolism and translation were downregulated with age, whereas pathways involved in ECM remodeling and immune response were upregulated. Interestingly, immune-related pathways were upregulated with age even in ECM-enriched ovaries, suggesting a novel interplay between the ECM and the immune system. Moreover, we identified putative markers of unique immune cell populations present in the ovary with age. These findings provide evidence from a proteomic perspective that the aging ovary provides a fibroinflammatory milieu, and our study suggests target proteins which may drive these age-associated phenotypes for future investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shweta S. Dipali
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | | | - Jacob P. Rose
- Buck Institute for Research on Aging, Novato, CA 94945, USA
| | - Joanna E. Burdette
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60607, USA
| | - Judith Campisi
- Buck Institute for Research on Aging, Novato, CA 94945, USA
| | | | - Francesca E. Duncan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
- Buck Institute for Research on Aging, Novato, CA 94945, USA
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32
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Perrone R, Ashok Kumaar PV, Haky L, Hahn C, Riley R, Balough J, Zaza G, Soygur B, Hung K, Prado L, Kasler HG, Tiwari R, Matsui H, Hormazabal GV, Heckenbach I, Scheibye-Knudsen M, Duncan FE, Verdin E. CD38 regulates ovarian function and fecundity via NAD + metabolism. iScience 2023; 26:107949. [PMID: 37822499 PMCID: PMC10562803 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.107949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Revised: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Mammalian female reproductive lifespan is typically significantly shorter than life expectancy and is associated with a decrease in ovarian NAD+ levels. However, the mechanisms underlying this loss of ovarian NAD+ are unclear. Here, we show that CD38, an NAD+ consuming enzyme, is expressed in the ovarian extrafollicular space, primarily in immune cells, and its levels increase with reproductive age. Reproductively young mice lacking CD38 exhibit larger primordial follicle pools, elevated ovarian NAD+ levels, and increased fecundity relative to wild type controls. This larger ovarian reserve results from a prolonged window of follicle formation during early development. However, the beneficial effect of CD38 loss on reproductive function is not maintained at advanced age. Our results demonstrate a novel role of CD38 in regulating ovarian NAD+ metabolism and establishing the ovarian reserve, a critical process that dictates a female's reproductive lifespan.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Lauren Haky
- Buck Institute for Research on Aging, Novato, CA, USA
- The Dominican University of California, San Rafael, CA, USA
| | - Cosmo Hahn
- Buck Institute for Research on Aging, Novato, CA, USA
| | | | - Julia Balough
- Buck Institute for Research on Aging, Novato, CA, USA
| | - Giuliana Zaza
- Buck Institute for Research on Aging, Novato, CA, USA
| | - Bikem Soygur
- Buck Institute for Research on Aging, Novato, CA, USA
| | - Kaitlyn Hung
- Buck Institute for Research on Aging, Novato, CA, USA
| | - Leandro Prado
- Buck Institute for Research on Aging, Novato, CA, USA
| | | | - Ritesh Tiwari
- Buck Institute for Research on Aging, Novato, CA, USA
| | | | | | - Indra Heckenbach
- Center for Healthy Aging, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Morten Scheibye-Knudsen
- Center for Healthy Aging, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Francesca E. Duncan
- Buck Institute for Research on Aging, Novato, CA, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Eric Verdin
- Buck Institute for Research on Aging, Novato, CA, USA
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33
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Wang K, Li Y. Signaling pathways and targeted therapeutic strategies for polycystic ovary syndrome. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1191759. [PMID: 37929034 PMCID: PMC10622806 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1191759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrine disorder among women of reproductive age. Although promising strides have been made in the field of PCOS over the past decades, the distinct etiologies of this syndrome are not fully elucidated. Prenatal factors, genetic variation, epigenetic mechanisms, unhealthy lifestyles, and environmental toxins all contribute to the development of this intricate and highly heterogeneous metabolic, endocrine, reproductive, and psychological disorder. Moreover, interactions between androgen excess, insulin resistance, disruption to the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovary (HPO) axis, and obesity only make for a more complex picture. In this review, we investigate and summarize the related molecular mechanisms underlying PCOS pathogenesis from the perspective of the level of signaling pathways, including PI3K/Akt, TGF-β/Smads, Wnt/β-catenin, and Hippo/YAP. Additionally, this review provides an overview of prospective therapies, such as exosome therapy, gene therapy, and drugs based on traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and natural compounds. By targeting these aberrant pathways, these interventions primarily alleviate inflammation, insulin resistance, androgen excess, and ovarian fibrosis, which are typical symptoms of PCOS. Overall, we hope that this paper will pave the way for better understanding and management of PCOS in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kexin Wang
- The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yanhua Li
- Department of General Practice, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
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34
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Paula VG, Sinzato YK, Gallego FQ, Cruz LL, Aquino AMD, Scarano WR, Corrente JE, Volpato GT, Damasceno DC. Intergenerational Hyperglycemia Impairs Mitochondrial Function and Follicular Development and Causes Oxidative Stress in Rat Ovaries Independent of the Consumption of a High-Fat Diet. Nutrients 2023; 15:4407. [PMID: 37892483 PMCID: PMC10609718 DOI: 10.3390/nu15204407] [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: 09/12/2023] [Revised: 09/16/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
We analyzed the influence of maternal hyperglycemia and the post-weaning consumption of a high-fat diet on the mitochondrial function and ovarian development of the adult pups of diabetic rats. Female rats received citrate buffer (Control-C) or Streptozotocin (for diabetes induction-D) on postnatal day 5. These adult rats were mated to obtain female pups (O) from control dams (OC) or from diabetic dams (OD), and they received a standard diet (SD) or high-fat diet (HFD) from weaning to adulthood and were distributed into OC/SD, OC/HFD, OD/SD, and OD/HFD. In adulthood, the OGTT and AUC were performed. These rats were anesthetized and euthanized for sample collection. A high percentage of diabetic rats were found to be in the OD/HFD group (OD/HFD 40% vs. OC/SD 0% p < 0.05). Progesterone concentrations were lower in the experimental groups (OC/HFD 0.40 ± 0.04; OD/SD 0.30 ± 0.03; OD/HFD 0.24 ± 0.04 vs. OC/SD 0.45 ± 0.03 p < 0.0001). There was a lower expression of MFF (OD/SD 0.34 ± 0.33; OD/HFD 0.29 ± 0.2 vs. OC/SD 1.0 ± 0.41 p = 0.0015) and MFN2 in the OD/SD and OD/HFD groups (OD/SD 0.41 ± 0.21; OD/HFD 0.77 ± 0.18 vs. OC/SD 1.0 ± 0.45 p = 0.0037). The number of follicles was lower in the OD/SD and OD/HFD groups. A lower staining intensity for SOD and Catalase and higher staining intensity for MDA were found in ovarian cells in the OC/HFD, OD/SD, and OD/HFD groups. Fetal programming was responsible for mitochondrial dysfunction, ovarian reserve loss, and oxidative stress; the association of maternal diabetes with an HFD was responsible for the higher occurrence of diabetes in female adult pups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Verônyca Gonçalves Paula
- Laboratory of Experimental Research on Gynecology and Obstetrics, Gynecology, Postgraduate Course on Tocogynecology, Botucatu Medical School, São Paulo State University (Unesp), Botucatu 18618-687, SP, Brazil
| | - Yuri Karen Sinzato
- Laboratory of Experimental Research on Gynecology and Obstetrics, Gynecology, Postgraduate Course on Tocogynecology, Botucatu Medical School, São Paulo State University (Unesp), Botucatu 18618-687, SP, Brazil
| | - Franciane Quintanilha Gallego
- Laboratory of Experimental Research on Gynecology and Obstetrics, Gynecology, Postgraduate Course on Tocogynecology, Botucatu Medical School, São Paulo State University (Unesp), Botucatu 18618-687, SP, Brazil
| | - Larissa Lopes Cruz
- Laboratory of Experimental Research on Gynecology and Obstetrics, Gynecology, Postgraduate Course on Tocogynecology, Botucatu Medical School, São Paulo State University (Unesp), Botucatu 18618-687, SP, Brazil
| | - Ariana Musa de Aquino
- Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biosciences, Sao Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu 18618-689, SP, Brazil
| | - Wellerson Rodrigo Scarano
- Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biosciences, Sao Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu 18618-689, SP, Brazil
| | - José Eduardo Corrente
- Research Support Office, Botucatu Medical School, São Paulo State University (Unesp), Botucatu 18618-687, SP, Brazil
| | - Gustavo Tadeu Volpato
- Laboratory of System Physiology and Reproductive Toxicology, Institute of Biological and Health Sciences, Federal University of Mato Grosso (UFMT), Barra do Garças 78600-000, MG, Brazil
| | - Débora Cristina Damasceno
- Laboratory of Experimental Research on Gynecology and Obstetrics, Gynecology, Postgraduate Course on Tocogynecology, Botucatu Medical School, São Paulo State University (Unesp), Botucatu 18618-687, SP, Brazil
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35
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Telfer EE, Grosbois J, Odey YL, Rosario R, Anderson RA. Making a good egg: human oocyte health, aging, and in vitro development. Physiol Rev 2023; 103:2623-2677. [PMID: 37171807 PMCID: PMC10625843 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00032.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Revised: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Mammalian eggs (oocytes) are formed during fetal life and establish associations with somatic cells to form primordial follicles that create a store of germ cells (the primordial pool). The size of this pool is influenced by key events during the formation of germ cells and by factors that influence the subsequent activation of follicle growth. These regulatory pathways must ensure that the reserve of oocytes within primordial follicles in humans lasts for up to 50 years, yet only approximately 0.1% will ever be ovulated with the rest undergoing degeneration. This review outlines the mechanisms and regulatory pathways that govern the processes of oocyte and follicle formation and later growth, within the ovarian stroma, through to ovulation with particular reference to human oocytes/follicles. In addition, the effects of aging on female reproductive capacity through changes in oocyte number and quality are emphasized, with both the cellular mechanisms and clinical implications discussed. Finally, the details of current developments in culture systems that support all stages of follicle growth to generate mature oocytes in vitro and emerging prospects for making new oocytes from stem cells are outlined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evelyn E Telfer
- Institute of Cell Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Johanne Grosbois
- Institute of Cell Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Yvonne L Odey
- Institute of Cell Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Roseanne Rosario
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, Queens Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Richard A Anderson
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, Queens Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
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36
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Chang CL. Facilitation of Ovarian Response by Mechanical Force-Latest Insight on Fertility Improvement in Women with Poor Ovarian Response or Primary Ovarian Insufficiency. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14751. [PMID: 37834198 PMCID: PMC10573075 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241914751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The decline in fertility in aging women, especially those with poor ovarian response (POR) or primary ovarian insufficiency (POI), is a major concern for modern IVF centers. Fertility treatments have traditionally relied on gonadotropin- and steroid-hormone-based IVF practices, but these methods have limitations, especially for women with aging ovaries. Researchers have been motivated to explore alternative approaches. Ovarian aging is a complicated process, and the deterioration of oocytes, follicular cells, the extracellular matrix (ECM), and the stromal compartment can all contribute to declining fertility. Adjunct interventions that involve the use of hormones, steroids, and cofactors and gamete engineering are two major research areas aimed to improve fertility in aging women. Additionally, mechanical procedures including the In Vitro Activation (IVA) procedure, which combines pharmacological activators and fragmentation of ovarian strips, and the Whole Ovary Laparoscopic Incision (WOLI) procedure that solely relies on mechanical manipulation in vivo have shown promising results in improving follicle growth and fertility in women with POR and POI. Advances in the use of mechanical procedures have brought exciting opportunities to improve fertility outcomes in aging women with POR or POI. While the lack of a comprehensive understanding of the molecular mechanisms that lead to fertility decline in aging women remains a major challenge for further improvement of mechanical-manipulation-based approaches, recent progress has provided a better view of how these procedures promote folliculogenesis in the fibrotic and avascular aging ovaries. In this review, we first provide a brief overview of the potential mechanisms that contribute to ovarian aging in POI and POR patients, followed by a discussion of measures that aim to improve ovarian folliculogenesis in aging women. At last, we discuss the likely mechanisms that contribute to the outcomes of IVA and WOLI procedures and potential future directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chia Lin Chang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital Linkou Medical Center, Chang Gung University, Guishan, Taoyuan 33305, Taiwan
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37
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de Assis E, Azevedo V, de Lima M, Costa F, Paulino L, Barroso P, Matos M, do Monte A, Donato M, Peixoto C, Godinho A, Freire J, Souza A, Silva J, Silva A. Extract of Cimicifuga racemosa (L.) Nutt protects ovarian follicle reserve of mice against in vitro deleterious effects of dexamethasone. Braz J Med Biol Res 2023; 56:e12811. [PMID: 37792779 PMCID: PMC10515502 DOI: 10.1590/1414-431x2023e12811] [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: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The present study aims to investigate if Cimicifuga racemosa (L.) Nutt extract (CIMI) reduces deleterious effects of dexamethasone (DEXA) in ovaries cultured in vitro. Mouse ovaries were collected and cultured in DMEM+ only or supplemented with 5 ng/mL of CIMI, or 4 ng/mL DEXA, or both CIMI and DEXA. The ovaries were cultured at 37.5°C in 5% CO2 for 6 days. Ovarian morphology, follicular ultrastructure, and the levels of mRNA for Bax, Bcl-2, and Caspase-3 were evaluated. The results showed that DEXA reduced the percentage of morphologically normal follicles, while CIMI prevented the deleterious effects caused by DEXA. In addition, DEXA negatively affected the stromal cellular density, while CIMI prevented these adverse effects. Ovaries cultured with DEXA and CIMI showed similar levels of mRNA for Bax, Bcl-2, and Caspase-3 compared to those cultured in control medium, while ovaries cultured with DEXA had increased expression of the above genes. Additionally, the ultrastructure of the ovaries cultured with CIMI was well preserved. Thus, the extract of CIMI was able to prevent the deleterious effects caused by DEXA on cultured mouse ovaries.
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Affiliation(s)
- E.I.T. de Assis
- Laboratório de Biotecnologia e Fisiologia da Reprodução, Universidade Federal do Ceará, Sobral, CE, Brasil
- Núcleo de Pesquisa em Experimentação Animal, Universidade Federal do Ceará, Sobral, CE, Brasil
| | - V.A.N. Azevedo
- Laboratório de Biotecnologia e Fisiologia da Reprodução, Universidade Federal do Ceará, Sobral, CE, Brasil
- Núcleo de Pesquisa em Experimentação Animal, Universidade Federal do Ceará, Sobral, CE, Brasil
| | - M.F. de Lima
- Laboratório de Biotecnologia e Fisiologia da Reprodução, Universidade Federal do Ceará, Sobral, CE, Brasil
- Núcleo de Pesquisa em Experimentação Animal, Universidade Federal do Ceará, Sobral, CE, Brasil
| | - F.C. Costa
- Laboratório de Biotecnologia e Fisiologia da Reprodução, Universidade Federal do Ceará, Sobral, CE, Brasil
- Núcleo de Pesquisa em Experimentação Animal, Universidade Federal do Ceará, Sobral, CE, Brasil
| | - L.R.F.M. Paulino
- Laboratório de Biotecnologia e Fisiologia da Reprodução, Universidade Federal do Ceará, Sobral, CE, Brasil
- Núcleo de Pesquisa em Experimentação Animal, Universidade Federal do Ceará, Sobral, CE, Brasil
| | - P.A.A. Barroso
- Laboratório de Biotecnologia e Fisiologia da Reprodução, Universidade Federal do Ceará, Sobral, CE, Brasil
- Núcleo de Pesquisa em Experimentação Animal, Universidade Federal do Ceará, Sobral, CE, Brasil
| | - M.H.T. Matos
- Núcleo de Biotecnologia Aplicada ao Desenvolvimento do Folículo Ovariano, Universidade Federal do Vale do São Francisco, Petrolina, PE, Brasil
| | - A.P.O. do Monte
- Núcleo de Biotecnologia Aplicada ao Desenvolvimento do Folículo Ovariano, Universidade Federal do Vale do São Francisco, Petrolina, PE, Brasil
| | - M.A.M. Donato
- Laboratório de Ultraestrutura, Centro de Pesquisas Aggeu Magalhães (CPqAM)/FIOCRUZ, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife, PE, Brasil
| | - C.A. Peixoto
- Laboratório de Ultraestrutura, Centro de Pesquisas Aggeu Magalhães (CPqAM)/FIOCRUZ, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife, PE, Brasil
| | - A.N. Godinho
- Núcleo de Pesquisa em Experimentação Animal, Universidade Federal do Ceará, Sobral, CE, Brasil
| | - J.M.O. Freire
- Núcleo de Pesquisa em Experimentação Animal, Universidade Federal do Ceará, Sobral, CE, Brasil
| | - A.L.P. Souza
- Laboratório de Biotecnologia e Fisiologia da Reprodução, Universidade Federal do Ceará, Sobral, CE, Brasil
- Núcleo de Pesquisa em Experimentação Animal, Universidade Federal do Ceará, Sobral, CE, Brasil
| | - J.R.V. Silva
- Laboratório de Biotecnologia e Fisiologia da Reprodução, Universidade Federal do Ceará, Sobral, CE, Brasil
- Núcleo de Pesquisa em Experimentação Animal, Universidade Federal do Ceará, Sobral, CE, Brasil
| | - A.W.B. Silva
- Laboratório de Biotecnologia e Fisiologia da Reprodução, Universidade Federal do Ceará, Sobral, CE, Brasil
- Núcleo de Pesquisa em Experimentação Animal, Universidade Federal do Ceará, Sobral, CE, Brasil
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Stewart S, Ou W, Aranda-Espinoza H, Rahaman SO, He X. Micromechanical characterizations and viscoelastic modeling reveal elastic and viscoelastic heterogeneities in ovarian tissue and the significant viscoelastic contribution to the apparent elastic modulus determined by AFM indentation. Acta Biomater 2023; 168:286-297. [PMID: 37451661 PMCID: PMC10529990 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2023.07.010] [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: 01/18/2023] [Revised: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
Ovarian follicles develop in a highly regulated mechanical microenvironment and disruptions to the microenvironment may cause infertility. However, the viscoelastic properties of the ovarian tissue are not well studied. Here, we characterize both the elastic and viscoelastic properties of ovarian tissue from both reproductively older and younger domestic cats using atomic force microscopy (AFM) indentation and viscoelastic models of stress relaxation. Importantly, our analyses reveal the apparent elastic modulus obtained from the conventional AFM indentation measurement is significantly higher than the intrinsic elastic modulus and insignificantly different from the equivalent elastic modulus that is the summation of the intrinsic elastic modulus and the viscoelastic contribution to modulus at time 0. Interestingly, the ovarian cortex of both reproductive age groups has a higher apparent/intrinsic modulus than that of the medulla. Furthermore, two different kinetics of stress relaxation are identified with rate constants of ∼1 s and ∼20-40 s, respectively. Moreover, the rate constant of the slow kinetics is significantly different between the cortex and medulla in the reproductively older ovaries. Finally, these mechanical heterogeneities appear to follow the heterogeneous distribution of hyaluronic acid (HA) in the ovary. These findings may be invaluable to the development of biomimetic follicle culture for treating infertility. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: This study investigates not only elastic but also the viscoelastic heterogeneity in both reproductively younger and older ovarian tissues for the first time. Further, by combining AFM indentation measurement and viscoelastic modeling, we show the apparent elastic modulus conventionally reported in the literature for AFM indentation measurement is the summation of the intrinsic elastic modulus and a significant viscoelastic contribution to the modulus at time 0. This is an important consideration for others who use this method to quantify biomaterial properties. In addition, the possible connection between the mechanical and compositional heterogeneities is explored. These findings may be invaluable for designing biomaterials to recapitulate the mechanical environment of the ovary and possibly many other organs for biomimetic tissue engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Stewart
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, United States
| | - Wenquan Ou
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, United States
| | - Helim Aranda-Espinoza
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, United States
| | - Shaik O Rahaman
- Department of Nutrition and Food Science, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, United States
| | - Xiaoming He
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, United States.
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Ogundipe OD, Olajubutu O, Adesina SK. Targeted drug conjugate systems for ovarian cancer chemotherapy. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 165:115151. [PMID: 37473683 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115151] [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: 05/25/2023] [Revised: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Ovarian cancer is a highly lethal disease that affects women. Early diagnosis and treatment of women with early-stage disease improve the probability of survival. Unfortunately, the majority of women with ovarian cancer are diagnosed at advanced stages 3 and 4 which makes treatment challenging. While the majority of the patients respond to first-line treatment, i.e. cytoreductive surgery integrated with platinum-based chemotherapy, the rate of disease recurrence is very high and the available treatment options for recurrent disease are not curative. Thus, there is a need for more effective treatment options for ovarian cancer. Targeted drug conjugate systems have emerged as a promising therapeutic strategy for the treatment of ovarian cancer. These systems provide the opportunity to selectively deliver highly potent chemotherapeutic drugs to ovarian cancer, sparing healthy normal cells. Thus, the effectiveness of the drugs is improved and systemic toxicity is greatly reduced. In this review, different targeted drug conjugate systems that have been or are being developed for the treatment of ovarian cancer will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omotola D Ogundipe
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Howard University, Washington, DC, USA
| | | | - Simeon K Adesina
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Howard University, Washington, DC, USA.
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40
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Pal S, Bhowmick S, Sharma A, Sierra-Fonseca JA, Mondal S, Afolabi F, Roy D. Lymphatic vasculature in ovarian cancer. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2023; 1878:188950. [PMID: 37419192 PMCID: PMC10754213 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2023.188950] [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: 03/08/2023] [Revised: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/09/2023]
Abstract
Ovarian cancer (OVCA) is the second most common gynecological cancer and one of the leading causes of cancer related mortality among women. Recent studies suggest that among ovarian cancer patients at least 70% of the cases experience the involvement of lymph nodes and metastases through lymphatic vascular network. However, the impact of lymphatic system in the growth, spread and the evolution of ovarian cancer, its contribution towards the landscape of ovarian tissue resident immune cells and their metabolic responses is still a major knowledge gap. In this review first we present the epidemiological aspect of the OVCA, the lymphatic architecture of the ovary, we discuss the role of lymphatic circulation in regulation of ovarian tumor microenvironment, metabolic basis of the upregulation of lymphangiogenesis which is often observed during progression of ovarian metastasis and ascites development. Further we describe the implication of several mediators which influence both lymphatic vasculature as well as ovarian tumor microenvironment and conclude with several therapeutic strategies for targeting lymphatic vasculature in ovarian cancer progression in present day.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarit Pal
- Department of Medical Physiology, College of Medicine, Texas A&M University, Bryan, TX 77843, United States
| | - Sramana Bhowmick
- Department of Life Sciences, Presidency University, 86/1 College Street, Kolkata 700073, West Bengal, India
| | - Anurag Sharma
- Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | | | - Susmita Mondal
- Department of Life Sciences, Presidency University, 86/1 College Street, Kolkata 700073, West Bengal, India
| | - Favour Afolabi
- Department of Biological Sciences, Alcorn State University, Lorman, MS 39096, United States
| | - Debarshi Roy
- Department of Biological Sciences, Alcorn State University, Lorman, MS 39096, United States.
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Najafi A, Asadi E, Benson JD. Ovarian tissue cryopreservation and transplantation: a review on reactive oxygen species generation and antioxidant therapy. Cell Tissue Res 2023; 393:401-423. [PMID: 37328708 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-023-03794-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Cancer is the leading cause of death worldwide. Fortunately, the survival rate of cancer continues to rise, owing to advances in cancer treatments. However, these treatments are gonadotoxic and cause infertility. Ovarian tissue cryopreservation and transplantation (OTCT) is the most flexible option to preserve fertility in women and children with cancer. However, OTCT is associated with significant follicle loss and an accompanying short lifespan of the grafts. There has been a decade of research in cryopreservation-induced oxidative stress in single cells with significant successes in mitigating this major source of loss of viability. However, despite its success elsewhere and beyond a few promising experiments, little attention has been paid to this key aspect of OTCT-induced damage. As more and more clinical practices adopt OTCT for fertility preservation, it is a critical time to review oxidative stress as a cause of damage and to outline potential ameliorative interventions. Here we give an overview of the application of OTCT for female fertility preservation and existing challenges; clarify the potential contribution of oxidative stress in ovarian follicle loss; and highlight potential ability of antioxidant treatments to mitigate the OTCT-induced injuries that might be of interest to cryobiologists and reproductive clinicians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atefeh Najafi
- Department of Biology, University of Saskatchewan, S7N 5E2, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Ebrahim Asadi
- Department of Biology, University of Saskatchewan, S7N 5E2, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - James D Benson
- Department of Biology, University of Saskatchewan, S7N 5E2, Saskatoon, SK, Canada.
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42
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Shuyuan Y, Meimei W, Fenghua L, Huishan Z, Min C, Hongchu B, Xuemei L. hUMSC transplantation restores follicle development in ovary damaged mice via re-establish extracellular matrix (ECM) components. J Ovarian Res 2023; 16:172. [PMID: 37620943 PMCID: PMC10464307 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-023-01217-y] [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: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Explore the therapeutic role of human umbilical mesenchymal stem cells (hUMSCs) transplantation for regeneration of ECM components and restoration of follicular development in mice. BACKGROUND The extracellular matrix (ECM) is crucial to maintain ovary function and regulate follicular development, as it participates in important cell signaling and provides physical support to the cells. However, it is unknown how hUMSCs affect the expression of ECM-related genes in ovaries treated with cyclophosphamide (CTX) and busulfan (BUS). METHODS In the present study, we used 64 six- to eight-week-old ICR female mice to established mouse model. The mice were randomly divided into four groups (n = 16/group): control, POI, POI + hUMSCs, and POI + PBS group. The premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) mouse model was established by intraperitoneal injection of CTX and BUS for 7days, then, hUMSCs or PBS were respectively injected via the tail vein in POI + hUMSCs or POI + PBS group. Another 7days after injection, the mice were sacrificed to harvest the ovary tissue. The ovaries were immediately frozen with liquid nitrogen or fixed with 4% PFA for subsequent experiments. To screen differentially expressed genes (DEGs), we performed transcriptome sequencing of ovaries. Thereafter, a Gene Ontology (GO) terms and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analyses were performed to predict the related biological functions. Retrieval of interacting genes for ECM-related DEGs was performed using the function of STRINGdb (version 2.6.5) to evaluate potential protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks. Furthermore, qRT-PCR and IHC were performed to assess the differential expression of selected DEGs in control, damaged, hUMSCs-transplanted and non-transplanted ovaries. RESULTS Chemotherapy caused mouse ovarian follicular reserve depletion, and hUMSCs transplantation partially restored follicular development. Our results revealed that ECM-receptor interaction and ECM organization were both downregulated in the damaged ovaries. Further investigation showed that ECM-related genes were downregulated in the CTX and BUS treatment group and partially rescued in hUMSCs injection group but not in the PBS group. qRT-PCR and IHC verified the results: collagen IV and laminin gamma 3 were both expressed around follicle regions in normal ovaries, chemotherapy treatment disrupted their expression, and hUMSCs transplantation rescued their localization and expression to some extent. CONCLUSION Our data demonstrated that ECM-related genes participate in the regulation of ovarian reserve, hUMSCs treatment rescued abnormal expression and localization of collagen IV and laminin gamma 3 in the damaged ovaries. The results suggest that hUMSCs transplantation can maintain ECM-stable microenvironments, which is beneficial to follicular development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yin Shuyuan
- Reproductive Medicine Centre, The Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai, 264000, Shandong, China
| | - Wang Meimei
- Reproductive Medicine Centre, The Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai, 264000, Shandong, China
| | - Li Fenghua
- Reproductive Medicine Centre, The Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai, 264000, Shandong, China
| | - Zhao Huishan
- Reproductive Medicine Centre, The Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai, 264000, Shandong, China
| | - Chu Min
- Reproductive Medicine Centre, The Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai, 264000, Shandong, China
| | - Bao Hongchu
- Reproductive Medicine Centre, The Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai, 264000, Shandong, China.
| | - Liu Xuemei
- Reproductive Medicine Centre, The Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai, 264000, Shandong, China.
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43
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Sheikh S, Lo BKM, Kaune H, Bansal J, Deleva A, Williams SA. Rescue of follicle development after oocyte-induced ovary dysfunction and infertility in a model of POI. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1202411. [PMID: 37614224 PMCID: PMC10443433 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1202411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The mechanisms and aetiology underlying the development of premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) are poorly understood. However, the oocyte clearly has a role as demonstrated by the Double Mutant (DM) mouse model where ovarian dysfunction (6 weeks) is followed by POI (3 months) due to oocyte-specific deletion of complex and hybrid N- and O-glycans. The ovaries of DM mice contain more primary follicles (3a stage) accompanied by fewer developing follicles, indicating a block in follicle development. To investigate this block, we first analysed early follicle development in postnatal (8-day), pre-pubertal (3-week) and post-pubertal (6-week and 3-month) DM (C1galt1 F/F Mgat1 F/F:ZP3Cre) and Control (C1galt1 F/F Mgat1 F/F) mice. Second, we investigated if transplantation of DM ovaries into a "normal" endocrine environment would restore follicle development. Third, we determined if replacing DM ovarian somatic cells would rescue development of DM oocytes. At 3-week, DM primary 3a follicles contain large oocytes accompanied by early development of a second GC layer and increased GC proliferation. At 6-week, DM primary 3a follicles contain abnormally large oocytes, accompanied with decreased GC proliferation. Transplantation of DM ovaries into a 'normal' endocrine environment did not restore normal follicle development. However, replacing somatic cells by generating reaggregated ovaries (ROs) did enable follicle development to progress and thus highlighted intra-ovarian factors were responsible for the onset of POI in DM females. Thus, these studies demonstrate oocyte-initiated altered communication between GCs and oocytes results in abnormal primary follicles which fail to progress and leads to POI.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Suzannah A. Williams
- Nuffield Department of Women’s and Reproductive Health, Women’s Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
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44
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Barbato V, Genovese V, De Gregorio V, Di Nardo M, Travaglione A, De Napoli L, Fragomeni G, Zanetti EM, Adiga SK, Mondrone G, D'Hooghe T, Zheng W, Longobardi S, Catapano G, Gualtieri R, Talevi R. Dynamic in vitro culture of bovine and human ovarian tissue enhances follicle progression and health. Sci Rep 2023; 13:11773. [PMID: 37479791 PMCID: PMC10361967 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-37086-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 07/23/2023] Open
Abstract
In vitro ovarian cortical tissue culture, followed by culture of isolated secondary follicles, is a promising future option for production of mature oocytes. Although efforts have been made to improve the culture outcome by changing the medium composition, so far, most studies used static culture systems. Here we describe the outcome of 7 days cultures of bovine and human ovarian cortical tissue in a dynamic system using a novel perifusion bioreactor in comparison to static culture in conventional and/or gas permeable dishes. Findings show that dynamic culture significantly improves follicle quality and viability, percentage and health of secondary follicles, overall tissue health, and steroid secretion in both species. Model predictions suggest that such amelioration can be mediated by an enhanced oxygen availability and/or by fluid-mechanical shear stresses and solid compressive strains exerted on the tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincenza Barbato
- Department of Biology, University of Naples "Federico II", Complesso Universitario Di Monte S. Angelo, Via Cinthia, 80126, Naples, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Genovese
- Department of Biology, University of Naples "Federico II", Complesso Universitario Di Monte S. Angelo, Via Cinthia, 80126, Naples, Italy
- IVF Research, Education, Development S.R.L., Via Josemaria Escrivà, 68, 81100, Caserta, Italy
| | - Vincenza De Gregorio
- Department of Biology, University of Naples "Federico II", Complesso Universitario Di Monte S. Angelo, Via Cinthia, 80126, Naples, Italy
| | - Maddalena Di Nardo
- Department of Biology, University of Naples "Federico II", Complesso Universitario Di Monte S. Angelo, Via Cinthia, 80126, Naples, Italy
- Institute for Biomedical Technologies ITB, National Research Council CNR, Via Moruzzi, 1, 56124, Pisa, Italy
| | - Angela Travaglione
- Department of Biology, University of Naples "Federico II", Complesso Universitario Di Monte S. Angelo, Via Cinthia, 80126, Naples, Italy
| | - Luigi De Napoli
- Department of Mechanical, Energy and Management Engineering, University of Calabria, Via P. Bucci, 87030, Rende, CS, Italy
| | - Gionata Fragomeni
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Magna Graecia University, Viale Europa - Loc. Germaneto, 88100, Catanzaro, Italy
| | | | - Satish K Adiga
- Centre of Excellence in Clinical Embryology, Department of Reproductive Science, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, 576 104, India
| | - Giuseppe Mondrone
- IVF Research, Education, Development S.R.L., Via Josemaria Escrivà, 68, 81100, Caserta, Italy
| | - Thomas D'Hooghe
- Global Medical Unit Fertility, Merck Healthcare KGaA, Frankfurter Strasse 250, 64293, Darmstadt, Germany
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Group Biomedical Sciences, KU Leuven (Leuven University), Gasthuisberg Campus, Herestraat 49, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Wengijng Zheng
- Global Medical Unit Fertility, Merck Healthcare KGaA, Frankfurter Strasse 250, 64293, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Salvatore Longobardi
- Global Medical Unit Fertility, Merck Healthcare KGaA, Frankfurter Strasse 250, 64293, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Gerardo Catapano
- Department of Mechanical, Energy and Management Engineering, University of Calabria, Via P. Bucci, 87030, Rende, CS, Italy
| | - Roberto Gualtieri
- Department of Biology, University of Naples "Federico II", Complesso Universitario Di Monte S. Angelo, Via Cinthia, 80126, Naples, Italy
| | - Riccardo Talevi
- Department of Biology, University of Naples "Federico II", Complesso Universitario Di Monte S. Angelo, Via Cinthia, 80126, Naples, Italy.
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45
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Almeida GHDR, da Silva-Júnior LN, Gibin MS, Dos Santos H, de Oliveira Horvath-Pereira B, Pinho LBM, Baesso ML, Sato F, Hernandes L, Long CR, Relly L, Miglino MA, Carreira ACO. Perfusion and Ultrasonication Produce a Decellularized Porcine Whole-Ovary Scaffold with a Preserved Microarchitecture. Cells 2023; 12:1864. [PMID: 37508528 PMCID: PMC10378497 DOI: 10.3390/cells12141864] [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: 03/16/2023] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The application of decellularized scaffolds for artificial tissue reconstruction has been an approach with great therapeutic potential in regenerative medicine. Recently, biomimetic ovarian tissue reconstruction was proposed to reestablish ovarian endocrine functions. Despite many decellularization methods proposed, there is no established protocol for whole ovaries by detergent perfusion that is able to preserve tissue macro and microstructure with higher efficiency. This generated biomaterial may have the potential to be applied for other purposes beyond reproduction and be translated to other areas in the tissue engineering field. Therefore, this study aimed to establish and standardize a protocol for porcine ovaries' decellularization based on detergent perfusion and ultrasonication to obtain functional whole-ovary scaffolds. For that, porcine ovaries (n = 5) were perfused with detergents (0.5% SDS and 1% Triton X-100) and submitted to an ultrasonication bath to produce acellular scaffolds. The decellularization efficiency was evaluated by DAPI staining and total genomic DNA quantification. ECM morphological evaluation was performed by histological, immunohistochemistry, and ultrastructural analyses. ECM physico-chemical composition was evaluated using FTIR and Raman spectroscopy. A cytocompatibility and cell adhesion assay using murine fibroblasts was performed. Results showed that the proposed method was able to remove cellular components efficiently. There was no significant ECM component loss in relation to native tissue, and the scaffolds were cytocompatible and allowed cell attachment. In conclusion, the proposed decellularization protocol produced whole-ovaries scaffolds with preserved ECM composition and great potential for application in tissue engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Henrique Dos Santos
- Department of Physics, State University of Maringá, Maringá 87020-900, Brazil
| | | | - Leticia Beatriz Mazo Pinho
- Department of Surgery, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-270, Brazil
| | | | - Francielle Sato
- Department of Physics, State University of Maringá, Maringá 87020-900, Brazil
| | - Luzmarina Hernandes
- Department of Morphological Sciences, State University of Maringa, Maringá 87020-900, Brazil
| | - Charles R Long
- Department of Veterinary Physiology and Pharmacology, School of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Luciana Relly
- Department of Veterinary Physiology and Pharmacology, School of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Maria Angelica Miglino
- Department of Surgery, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-270, Brazil
| | - Ana Claudia Oliveira Carreira
- Department of Surgery, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-270, Brazil
- Centre for Natural and Human Sciences, Federal University of ABC, Santo André, São Paulo 09210-580, Brazil
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46
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Del Valle JS, Chuva de Sousa Lopes SM. Bioengineered 3D Ovarian Models as Paramount Technology for Female Health Management and Reproduction. Bioengineering (Basel) 2023; 10:832. [PMID: 37508859 PMCID: PMC10376580 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering10070832] [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: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Ovarian dysfunction poses significant threats to the health of female individuals. Ovarian failure can lead to infertility due to the lack or inefficient production of fertilizable eggs. In addition, the ovary produces hormones, such as estrogen and progesterone, that play crucial roles not only during pregnancy, but also in maintaining cardiovascular, bone, and cognitive health. Decline in estrogen and progesterone production due to ovarian dysfunction can result in menopausal-associated syndromes and lead to conditions, such as osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease, and Alzheimer's disease. Recent advances in the design of bioengineered three-dimensional (3D) ovarian models, such as ovarian organoids or artificial ovaries, have made it possible to mimic aspects of the cellular heterogeneity and functional characteristics of the ovary in vitro. These novel technologies are emerging as valuable tools for studying ovarian physiology and pathology and may provide alternatives for fertility preservation. Moreover, they may have the potential to restore aspects of ovarian function, improving the quality of life of the (aging) female population. This review focuses on the state of the art of 3D ovarian platforms, including the latest advances modeling female reproduction, female physiology, ovarian cancer, and drug screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julieta S Del Valle
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZC Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Susana M Chuva de Sousa Lopes
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZC Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
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47
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Han S, Wang S, Fan X, Chen M, Wang X, Huang Y, Zhang H, Ma Y, Wang J, Zhang C. Abnormal Expression of Prolyl Oligopeptidase (POP) and Its Catalytic Products Ac-SDKP Contributes to the Ovarian Fibrosis Change in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) Mice. Biomedicines 2023; 11:1927. [PMID: 37509566 PMCID: PMC10377061 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11071927] [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: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is an endocrine disorder and metabolic syndrome. Ovarian fibrosis pathological change in PCOS has gradually attracted people's attention. In this study, we constructed a PCOS mouse model through the use of dehydroepiandrosterone. Sirius red staining showed that the ovarian tissues in PCOS mice had obvious fibrosis. Prolyl oligopeptidase (POP) is a serine protease and N-acetyl-seryl-aspartyl-lysyl-proline (Ac-SDKP) is its catalytic product. Studies show that abnormal expression and activity of POP and Ac-SDKP are closely related to tissue fibrosis. It was found that the expression of POP and Ac-SDKP was decreased in the ovaries of PCOS mice. Further studies showed that POP and Ac-SDKP promoted the expression of matrix metalloproteinases 2 (MMP-2) expression and decreased the expression of transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1) in granulosa cells. Hyperandrogenemia is a typical symptom of PCOS. We found that testosterone induced the low expression of POP and MMP2 and high expression of TGF-β1 in granulosa cells. POP overexpression and Ac-SDKP treatment inhibited the effect of testosterone on TGF-β1 and MMP2 in vitro and inhibited ovarian fibrosis in the PCOS mouse model. In conclusion, PCOS ovarian tissue showed obvious fibrosis. Low expression of POP and Ac-SDKP and changes in fibrotic factors contribute to the ovarian pathological fibrosis induced by androgen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suo Han
- Department of Cell Biology, College of Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
- Center for Drug Inspection of Guizhou Medical Products Administration, Guizhou Medical Products Administration, Guiyang 550081, China
| | - Shimeng Wang
- Department of Cell Biology, College of Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Xiang Fan
- Department of Cell Biology, College of Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Mengchi Chen
- Department of Cell Biology, College of Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Xiaojie Wang
- Department of Cell Biology, College of Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Yingtong Huang
- Department of Cell Biology, College of Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Hongdan Zhang
- Department of Cell Biology, College of Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Yinyin Ma
- Department of Cell Biology, College of Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Microbiology, College of Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Chunping Zhang
- Department of Cell Biology, College of Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
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Stringer JM, Alesi LR, Winship AL, Hutt KJ. Beyond apoptosis: evidence of other regulated cell death pathways in the ovary throughout development and life. Hum Reprod Update 2023; 29:434-456. [PMID: 36857094 PMCID: PMC10320496 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmad005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Revised: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 03/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Regulated cell death is a fundamental component of numerous physiological processes; spanning from organogenesis in utero, to normal cell turnover during adulthood, as well as the elimination of infected or damaged cells throughout life. Quality control through regulation of cell death pathways is particularly important in the germline, which is responsible for the generation of offspring. Women are born with their entire supply of germ cells, housed in functional units known as follicles. Follicles contain an oocyte, as well as specialized somatic granulosa cells essential for oocyte survival. Follicle loss-via regulated cell death-occurs throughout follicle development and life, and can be accelerated following exposure to various environmental and lifestyle factors. It is thought that the elimination of damaged follicles is necessary to ensure that only the best quality oocytes are available for reproduction. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE Understanding the precise factors involved in triggering and executing follicle death is crucial to uncovering how follicle endowment is initially determined, as well as how follicle number is maintained throughout puberty, reproductive life, and ovarian ageing in women. Apoptosis is established as essential for ovarian homeostasis at all stages of development and life. However, involvement of other cell death pathways in the ovary is less established. This review aims to summarize the most recent literature on cell death regulators in the ovary, with a particular focus on non-apoptotic pathways and their functions throughout the discrete stages of ovarian development and reproductive life. SEARCH METHODS Comprehensive literature searches were carried out using PubMed and Google Scholar for human, animal, and cellular studies published until August 2022 using the following search terms: oogenesis, follicle formation, follicle atresia, oocyte loss, oocyte apoptosis, regulated cell death in the ovary, non-apoptotic cell death in the ovary, premature ovarian insufficiency, primordial follicles, oocyte quality control, granulosa cell death, autophagy in the ovary, autophagy in oocytes, necroptosis in the ovary, necroptosis in oocytes, pyroptosis in the ovary, pyroptosis in oocytes, parthanatos in the ovary, and parthanatos in oocytes. OUTCOMES Numerous regulated cell death pathways operate in mammalian cells, including apoptosis, autophagic cell death, necroptosis, and pyroptosis. However, our understanding of the distinct cell death mediators in each ovarian cell type and follicle class across the different stages of life remains the source of ongoing investigation. Here, we highlight recent evidence for the contribution of non-apoptotic pathways to ovarian development and function. In particular, we discuss the involvement of autophagy during follicle formation and the role of autophagic cell death, necroptosis, pyroptosis, and parthanatos during follicle atresia, particularly in response to physiological stressors (e.g. oxidative stress). WIDER IMPLICATIONS Improved knowledge of the roles of each regulated cell death pathway in the ovary is vital for understanding ovarian development, as well as maintenance of ovarian function throughout the lifespan. This information is pertinent not only to our understanding of endocrine health, reproductive health, and fertility in women but also to enable identification of novel fertility preservation targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica M Stringer
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Lauren R Alesi
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Amy L Winship
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Karla J Hutt
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
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Ruiz TFR, Vilamaior PSL, Grigio V, Colleta SJ, Zucão MI, de Campos SGP, Dos Santos FCA, Biancardi MF, Perez APS, Taboga SR, Leonel ECR. The Mongolian Gerbil as a Useful Experimental Model in Reproductive Biology. Reprod Sci 2023; 30:2092-2106. [PMID: 36696041 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-023-01171-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Ultimately, the Mongolian gerbils (Meriones unguiculatus) have acquired a relevant role in biological and biomedical experiments alongside other rodents. The use of gerbils in research has been mainly oriented to physiological and pharmacological studies, with special attention to nervous, digestive, and auditory systems as well as microbiology and parasitology. Ultimately, gerbils have also been applied for studying carcinogenesis in different organs and systems, since these animals show a natural propensity to develop spontaneous proliferative lesions, especially in steroid-responsive organs. This characteristic shed light on the reproductive aspects of this rodent model regarding morphological features in male and female individuals. This review of literature summarizes the significance of this model as an alternative to the use of inbred mice and rats in reproductive experimental research, highlighting recent findings. Gerbils have contributed to the expansion of knowledge in prostate biology in male and female individuals, providing studies related to prostatic morphogenesis and neoplasia. In the testes, spermiogenesis occurs in 15 steps, differently from other experimental models. Also, the complete maturation of the testis-epididymal complex occurs between the second and third months. Mammary gland alterations related to the estrous cycle and pregnancy were described, as well as its modulation under endogenous and exogenous estrogenic compounds. The ovaries frequently present ovarian cysts. Furthermore, this organ shows predominantly interstitial steroidogenic glands in the stroma, especially at aging. Adrenal gland shows a large size compared to other animals, presenting three distinct zones with a remarkable role in steroidogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thalles Fernando Rocha Ruiz
- Department of Biology, Institute of Biosciences, Humanities and Exact Sciences, São Paulo State University, Rua Cristóvão Colombo, 2265 Jardim Nazareth, São José Do Rio Preto, SP, 15054-000, Brazil
- Institute of Biology, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, Brazil
| | - Patricia Simone Leite Vilamaior
- Department of Biology, Institute of Biosciences, Humanities and Exact Sciences, São Paulo State University, Rua Cristóvão Colombo, 2265 Jardim Nazareth, São José Do Rio Preto, SP, 15054-000, Brazil
| | - Vitor Grigio
- Department of Biology, Institute of Biosciences, Humanities and Exact Sciences, São Paulo State University, Rua Cristóvão Colombo, 2265 Jardim Nazareth, São José Do Rio Preto, SP, 15054-000, Brazil
| | - Simone Jacovaci Colleta
- Department of Biology, Institute of Biosciences, Humanities and Exact Sciences, São Paulo State University, Rua Cristóvão Colombo, 2265 Jardim Nazareth, São José Do Rio Preto, SP, 15054-000, Brazil
| | - Mariele Ilario Zucão
- Department of Biology, Institute of Biosciences, Humanities and Exact Sciences, São Paulo State University, Rua Cristóvão Colombo, 2265 Jardim Nazareth, São José Do Rio Preto, SP, 15054-000, Brazil
| | - Silvana Gisele Pegorin de Campos
- Department of Biology, Institute of Biosciences, Humanities and Exact Sciences, São Paulo State University, Rua Cristóvão Colombo, 2265 Jardim Nazareth, São José Do Rio Preto, SP, 15054-000, Brazil
| | - Fernanda Cristina Alcântara Dos Santos
- Department of Histology, Embryology and Cell Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Goiás, Avenida Esperança, S/N, Câmpus Samambaia, Goiânia, Goiás, 74690-900, Brazil
| | - Manoel Francisco Biancardi
- Department of Histology, Embryology and Cell Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Goiás, Avenida Esperança, S/N, Câmpus Samambaia, Goiânia, Goiás, 74690-900, Brazil
| | - Ana Paula Silva Perez
- Academic Unit of Health Sciences, Medicine Course, Federal University of Jataí, BR 36, Km 195, Jataí, Goiás, 75801-615, Brazil
| | - Sebastião Roberto Taboga
- Department of Biology, Institute of Biosciences, Humanities and Exact Sciences, São Paulo State University, Rua Cristóvão Colombo, 2265 Jardim Nazareth, São José Do Rio Preto, SP, 15054-000, Brazil
| | - Ellen Cristina Rivas Leonel
- Department of Histology, Embryology and Cell Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Goiás, Avenida Esperança, S/N, Câmpus Samambaia, Goiânia, Goiás, 74690-900, Brazil.
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Alvarez RH, Duarte KMR, Carvalho JBP, Rocha CC, Junior GAA, Trevisol E, Melo AJF, Pugliesi G. Ovarian morphology and follicular dynamics associated with ovarian aging in Bos indicus beef cows. Anim Reprod Sci 2023:107279. [PMID: 37353462 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2023.107279] [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: 01/16/2023] [Revised: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/25/2023]
Abstract
This study characterizes the ovarian volume, antral follicle count (AFC), and ovarian dynamics of cows at different ages. Nellore cows (Bos taurus indicus) were used in two experiments. In Experiment 1, 57 lactating cows ranging in age from 3 to 23 years had their estrous cycle synchronized based on progesterone/estradiol treatments. The ovaries were scanned by ultrasound to record ovarian volume and AFC prior to follicle aspiration (AFC1). A second AFC (AFC2) was performed 5 days later to count only the growing antral follicles. In Experiment 2, six long-lived (14- to 23-year-old) and three young (4- to 8-year-old) non-lactating cows were submitted to daily ovarian scanning ultrasound during an interovulatory interval. Blood samples were collected during the estrous cycle to assess serum progesterone concentration. Data were analyzed using Student's t-test, ANOVA, and regression analysis tests. In Experiment 1, there were more (P < 0.05) antral follicles in AFC1 (31.4 ± 3.5) than in AFC2 (22.6 ± 2.4). In AFC1, the volume of the right ovary (6.03 ± 0.5 cm3) was greater (P < 0.01) than that of the left one (4.53 ± 0.4 cm3), although the AFC did not differ between the two ovaries (15.3 ± 1.8 and 16.3 ± 1.8, respectively). In both AFC1 and AFC2, there was a decline in the number of antral follicles as the age of the cow increased (P < 0.01). Ovarian volume (average of both ovaries) was related (P < 0.01) with AFC (R² = 0.1499) and cow age (R² = 0.0911). In Experiment 2, young and old cows under the age of 20 had a pattern of follicular growth waves, while cows over 20 years old did not have waves of follicular growth. The progesterone profiles and corpus luteum size during the estrous cycle did not differ between the groups. In conclusion, although cows had increased ovarian volume and decreased follicular population as they age, the follicular growth pattern and corpus luteum functionality appear to be unaffected by age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael H Alvarez
- Agency for Agribusiness Technology of São Paulo (APTA/SAA), Piracicaba, SP, Brazil.
| | - Keila M R Duarte
- Agency for Agribusiness Technology of São Paulo (APTA/SAA), Piracicaba, SP, Brazil
| | - João B P Carvalho
- Agency for Agribusiness Technology of São Paulo (APTA/SAA), Piracicaba, SP, Brazil
| | - Cecília C Rocha
- Animal Reproduction Department/FMVZ/USP, Pirassununga, SP, Brazil
| | | | | | - Alfredo J F Melo
- Agency for Agribusiness Technology of São Paulo (APTA/SAA), Piracicaba, SP, Brazil
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