1
|
Wang T, Leng D, Cai Z, Chen B, Li J, Kui H, Li D, Li Z. Insights into left-right asymmetric development of chicken ovary at the single-cell level. J Genet Genomics 2024:S1673-8527(24)00210-8. [PMID: 39147128 DOI: 10.1016/j.jgg.2024.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2024] [Revised: 07/29/2024] [Accepted: 08/02/2024] [Indexed: 08/17/2024]
Abstract
Avian ovaries develop asymmetrically apart from prey birds, with only the left ovary growing more towards functional organs. Here, we analyze over 135,000 cells from chick's left and right ovaries at six distinct embryonic developmental stages utilizing single-cell transcriptome sequencing. We delineate gene expression patterns across 15 cell types within these embryo ovaries, revealing side-specific development. The left ovaries exhibit cortex cells, zygotene germ cells, and transcriptional changes unique to the left side. Differential gene expression analysis further identifies specific markers and pathways active in these cell types, highlighting the asymmetry in ovarian development. A fine-scale analysis of the germ cell meiotic transcriptome reveals seven distinct clusters with gene expression patterns specific to various meiotic stages. The study also identifies signaling pathways and intercellular communications, particularly between pre-granulosa and germ cells. Spatial transcriptome analysis shows the asymmetry, demonstrating cortex cells exclusively in the left ovary, modulating neighboring cell types through putative secreted signaling molecules. Overall, this single-cell analysis provides insights into the molecular mechanisms of the asymmetric development of avian ovaries, particularly the significant role of cortex cells in the left ovary.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tao Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610106, China
| | - Dong Leng
- School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610106, China
| | - Zhongkun Cai
- School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610106, China
| | - Binlong Chen
- College of Animal Science, Xichang University, Xichang, Sichuan 615000, China
| | - Jing Li
- School of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Kunming University, Kunming, Yunnan 650214, China
| | - Hua Kui
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan 611130, China
| | - Diyan Li
- School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610106, China.
| | - Zhuanjian Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450046, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Kress C, Jouneau L, Pain B. Reinforcement of repressive marks in the chicken primordial germ cell epigenetic signature: divergence from basal state resetting in mammals. Epigenetics Chromatin 2024; 17:11. [PMID: 38671530 PMCID: PMC11046797 DOI: 10.1186/s13072-024-00537-7] [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: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In mammals, primordial germ cells (PGCs), the embryonic precursors of the germline, arise from embryonic or extra-embryonic cells upon induction by the surrounding tissues during gastrulation, according to mechanisms which are elucidated in mice but remain controversial in primates. They undergo genome-wide epigenetic reprogramming, consisting of extensive DNA demethylation and histone post-translational modification (PTM) changes, toward a basal, euchromatinized state. In contrast, chicken PGCs are specified by preformation before gastrulation based on maternally-inherited factors. They can be isolated from the bloodstream during their migration to the genital ridges. Our prior research highlighted differences in the global epigenetic profile of cultured chicken PGCs compared with chicken somatic cells and mammalian PGCs. This study investigates the acquisition and evolution of this profile during development. RESULTS Quantitative analysis of global DNA methylation and histone PTMs, including their distribution, during key stages of chicken early development revealed divergent PGC epigenetic changes compared with mammals. Unlike mammalian PGCs, chicken PGCs do not undergo genome-wide DNA demethylation or exhibit a decrease in histone H3 lysine 9 dimethylation. However, chicken PGCs show 5‑hydroxymethylcytosine loss, macroH2A redistribution, and chromatin decompaction, mirroring mammalian processes. Chicken PGCs initiate their epigenetic signature during migration, progressively accumulating high global levels of H3K9me3, with preferential enrichment in inactive genome regions. Despite apparent global chromatin decompaction, abundant heterochromatin marks, including repressive histone PTMs, HP1 variants, and DNA methylation, persists in chicken PGCs, contrasting with mammalian PGCs. CONCLUSIONS Chicken PGCs' epigenetic signature does not align with the basal chromatin state observed in mammals, suggesting a departure from extensive epigenetic reprogramming. Despite disparities in early PGC development, the persistence of several epigenetic features shared with mammals implies their involvement in chromatin-regulated germ cell properties, with the distinctive elevation of chicken-specific H3K9me3 potentially participating in these processes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Clémence Kress
- Univ Lyon, Université Lyon 1, INSERM, INRAE, U1208, USC1361, Stem Cell and Brain Research Institute, Bron, France.
| | - Luc Jouneau
- Université Paris-Saclay, UVSQ, INRAE, BREED, Jouy-en-Josas, 78350, France
- Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, BREED, Maisons-Alfort, 94700, France
| | - Bertrand Pain
- Univ Lyon, Université Lyon 1, INSERM, INRAE, U1208, USC1361, Stem Cell and Brain Research Institute, Bron, France
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Doddamani D, Woodcock M, Taylor L, Nandi S, McTeir L, Davey MG, Smith J, McGrew MJ. The Transcriptome of Chicken Migratory Primordial Germ Cells Reveals Intrinsic Sex Differences and Expression of Hallmark Germ Cell Genes. Cells 2023; 12:cells12081151. [PMID: 37190060 DOI: 10.3390/cells12081151] [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: 02/26/2023] [Revised: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Primordial germ cells (PGCs) are germline-restricted embryonic cells that form the functional gametes of the adult animal. The use of avian PGCs in biobanking and producing genetically modified birds has driven research on the in vitro propagation and manipulation of these embryonic cells. In avian species, PGCs are hypothesized to be sexually undetermined at an early embryonic stage and undergo differentiation into an oocyte or spermatogonial fate dictated by extrinsic factors present in the gonad. However, chicken male and female PGCs require different culture conditions, suggesting that there are sex-specific differences, even at early stages. To understand potential differences between male and female chicken PGCs during migratory stages, we studied the transcriptomes of circulatory stage male and female PGCs propagated in a serum-free medium. We found that in vitro cultured PGCs were transcriptionally similar to their in ovo counterparts, with differences in cell proliferation pathways. Our analysis also revealed sex-specific transcriptome differences between male and female cultured PGCs, with notable differences in Smad7 and NCAM2 expression. A comparison of chicken PGCs with pluripotent and somatic cell types identified a set of genes that are exclusive to germ cells, enriched in the germplasm, and associated with germ cell development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dadakhalandar Doddamani
- The Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush Campus, Edinburgh EH25 9RG, UK
| | - Mark Woodcock
- The Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush Campus, Edinburgh EH25 9RG, UK
| | - Lorna Taylor
- The Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush Campus, Edinburgh EH25 9RG, UK
| | - Sunil Nandi
- The Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush Campus, Edinburgh EH25 9RG, UK
| | - Lynn McTeir
- The Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush Campus, Edinburgh EH25 9RG, UK
| | - Megan G Davey
- The Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush Campus, Edinburgh EH25 9RG, UK
| | - Jacqueline Smith
- The Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush Campus, Edinburgh EH25 9RG, UK
| | - Mike J McGrew
- The Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush Campus, Edinburgh EH25 9RG, UK
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Tracking the dynamics of female germ cell development during peri-hatch periods using a gene-edited chicken model. Poult Sci 2022; 102:102377. [PMID: 36586387 PMCID: PMC9811252 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2022.102377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2022] [Revised: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In hens, egg production depends on the development of germ cells in the ovary. Germ cells are established before birth, and their number gradually decreases during their lifespan. Therefore, it is essential to determine the time points of massive germ cell loss and the underlying mechanism. In this study, a gene-edited chicken with mCherry fluorescence specifically expressed in the germline was generated by the integration of the mCherry gene into the 3'-end of the DAZL locus, which facilitated the isolation of germ cells from the gonads of DAZL-mCherry embryos or chicks and quantification using flow cytometry based on the observation of red fluorescence. The results demonstrated the dynamics of germ cell development from embryos at 17 d of hatching (dh) to chickens at 7 d post-hatch (dph) and revealed a substantial loss of germ cells in the late embryonic stage (18 -19 dh) and post-hatch period (2 -3 dph). Additionally, the number of germ cells in DAZL × Guangxi Ma chicken was significantly higher than that in DAZL × Lohmann Pink chicken at 19 dh and 3 dph (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the numbers of germ cells positively correlated with the body weight in DAZL × Lohmann Pink chicken. In conclusion, our results showed the dynamics of germ cell development in chicken ovaries during peri-hatch periods and indicated the time point of substantial germ cell loss. The results provide evidence for further exploration of the underlying mechanism and serve as a reference for chicken breeding and management.
Collapse
|
5
|
Female Germ Cell Development in Chickens and Humans: The Chicken Oocyte Enriched Genes Convergent and Divergent with the Human Oocyte. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231911412. [PMID: 36232712 PMCID: PMC9570461 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231911412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Revised: 09/17/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The development of germ cells and other physiological events in the differentiated ovary of humans are highly conserved with several mammalian species, except for the differences in timing. However, comparative knowledge on this topic is very scarce with respect to humans and lower vertebrates, such as chickens. In chickens, female germ cells enter into meiosis around embryonic day (E) 15.5 and are arrested in meiotic prophase I as primary oocytes. The oocytes arrested in meiosis I are accumulated in germ-cell cysts; shortly after hatching, they are enclosed by flattened granulosa cells in order to form primordial follicles. In humans, the process of meiotic recombination in female germ cells begins in the 10–11th week of gestation, and primordial follicles are formed at around week 20. In this review, we comprehensively elucidate both the conservation and the species-specific differences between chickens and humans with respect to germ cell, oocyte, and follicle development. Importantly, we provide functional insights into a set of chicken oocyte enriched genes (from E16 to 1 week post-hatch) that show convergent and divergent expression patterns with respect to the human oocyte (from week 11 to 26).
Collapse
|
6
|
Berton MP, de Lemos MVA, Stafuzza NB, Simielli Fonseca LF, Silva DBDS, Peripolli E, Pereira ASC, Magalhães AFB, Albuquerque LG, Baldi F. Integration analyses of structural variations and differential gene expression associated with beef fatty acid profile in Nellore cattle. Anim Genet 2022; 53:570-582. [PMID: 35811456 DOI: 10.1111/age.13242] [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: 10/08/2022] [Revised: 06/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to integrate analyses of structural variations and differentially expressed genes (DEGs) associated with the beef fatty acid (FA) profile in Nellore cattle. Copy numbers variation (CNV) detection was performed using the penncnv algorithm and CNVRuler software in 3794 genotyped animals through the High-Density Bovine BeadChip. In order to perform the genomic wide association study (GWAS), a total of 963 genotyped animals were selected to obtain the intramuscular lipid concentration and quantify the beef FA profile. A total of 48 animals belonging to the same farm and management lot were extracted from the 963 genotyped and phenotyped animals to carry out the transcriptomic and differentially expressed gene analyses. The GWAS with extreme groups of FA profiles was performed using a logistic model. A total of 43, 42, 66 and 35 significant CNV regions (p < 0.05) for saturated, monounsaturated, polyunsaturated and omega 3 and 6 fatty acids were identified respectively. The paired-end sequencing of 48 samples was performed using the Illumina HiSeq2500 platform. Real-time quantitative PCR was used to validate the DEGs identified by RNA-seq analysis. The results showed several DEGs associated with the FA profile of Longissimus thoracis, such as BSCL2 and SAMD8. Enriched terms as the cellular response to corticosteroid (GO:0071384) and glucocorticoid stimulus (GO:0071385) could be highlighted. The identification of structural variations harboring candidate genes for beef FA must contribute to the elucidation of the genetic basis that determines the beef FA composition of intramuscular fat in Nellore cattle. Our results will contribute to the identification of potential biomarkers for complex phenotypes, such as the FA profile, to improve the reliability of the genomic predictions including pre-selected variants using differentiated weighting in the genomic models.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Piatto Berton
- Departamento de Zootecnia, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Jaboticabal, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | - Elisa Peripolli
- Departamento de Zootecnia, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Jaboticabal, Brazil
| | - Angélica S C Pereira
- Departamento de Nutrição e Produção Animal, Universidade de São Paulo, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Pirassununga, Brazil
| | - Ana Fabricia Braga Magalhães
- Departamento de Zootecnia, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Jaboticabal, Brazil
| | - Lucia G Albuquerque
- Departamento de Zootecnia, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Jaboticabal, Brazil
| | - Fernando Baldi
- Departamento de Zootecnia, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Jaboticabal, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Choi HJ, Jung KM, Rengaraj D, Lee KY, Yoo E, Kim TH, Han JY. Single-cell RNA sequencing of mitotic-arrested prospermatogonia with DAZL::GFP chickens and revealing unique epigenetic reprogramming of chickens. J Anim Sci Biotechnol 2022; 13:64. [PMID: 35659766 PMCID: PMC9169296 DOI: 10.1186/s40104-022-00712-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Germ cell mitotic arrest is conserved in many vertebrates, including birds, although the time of entry or exit into quiescence phase differs. Mitotic arrest is essential for the normal differentiation of male germ cells into spermatogonia and accompanies epigenetic reprogramming and meiosis inhibition from embryonic development to post-hatch. However, mitotic arrest was not well studied in chickens because of the difficulty in obtaining pure germ cells from relevant developmental stage. Results We performed single-cell RNA sequencing to investigate transcriptional dynamics of male germ cells during mitotic arrest in DAZL::GFP chickens. Using differentially expressed gene analysis and K-means clustering to analyze cells at different developmental stages (E12, E16, and hatch), we found that metabolic and signaling pathways were regulated, and that the epigenome was reprogrammed during mitotic arrest. In particular, we found that histone H3K9 and H3K14 acetylation (by HDAC2) and DNA demethylation (by DNMT3B and HELLS) led to a transcriptionally permissive chromatin state. Furthermore, we found that global DNA demethylation occurred gradually after the onset of mitotic arrest, indicating that the epigenetic-reprogramming schedule of the chicken genome differs from that of the mammalian genome. DNA hypomethylation persisted after hatching, and methylation was slowly re-established 3 weeks later. Conclusions We found a unique epigenetic-reprogramming schedule of mitotic-arrested chicken prospermatogonia and prolonged hypomethylation after hatching. This will provide a foundation for understanding the process of germ-cell epigenetic regulation in several species for which this process is not clearly described. Our findings on the biological processes related to sex-specific differentiation of prospermatogonia could help studying germline development in vitro more elaborately. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s40104-022-00712-4.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hyeon Jeong Choi
- Department of Agricultural Biotechnology and Research Institute of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, South Korea
| | - Kyung Min Jung
- Department of Agricultural Biotechnology and Research Institute of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, South Korea
| | - Deivendran Rengaraj
- Department of Agricultural Biotechnology and Research Institute of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, South Korea
| | - Kyung Youn Lee
- Department of Agricultural Biotechnology and Research Institute of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, South Korea
| | - Eunhui Yoo
- Department of Agricultural Biotechnology and Research Institute of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, South Korea
| | - Tae Hyun Kim
- Department of Animal Science, Pennsylvania State University, State College, PA, 16801, USA
| | - Jae Yong Han
- Department of Agricultural Biotechnology and Research Institute of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, South Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Rengaraj D, Cha DG, Lee HJ, Lee KY, Choi YH, Jung KM, Kim YM, Choi HJ, Choi HJ, Yoo E, Woo SJ, Park JS, Park KJ, Kim JK, Han JY. Dissecting chicken germ cell dynamics by combining a germ cell tracing transgenic chicken model with single-cell RNA sequencing. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2022; 20:1654-1669. [PMID: 35465157 PMCID: PMC9010679 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2022.03.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Revised: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Avian germ cells can be distinguished by certain characteristics during development. On the basis of these characteristics, germ cells can be used for germline transmission. However, the dynamic transcriptional landscape of avian germ cells during development is unknown. Here, we used a novel germ-cell-tracing method to monitor and isolate chicken germ cells at different stages of development. We targeted the deleted in azoospermia like (DAZL) gene, a germ-cell-specific marker, to integrate a green fluorescent protein (GFP) reporter gene without affecting endogenous DAZL expression. The resulting transgenic chickens (DAZL::GFP) were used to uncover the dynamic transcriptional landscape of avian germ cells. Single-cell RNA sequencing of 4,752 male and 13,028 female DAZL::GFP germ cells isolated from embryonic day E2.5 to 1 week post-hatch identified sex-specific developmental stages (4 stages in male and 5 stages in female) and trajectories (apoptosis and meiosis paths in female) of chicken germ cells. The male and female trajectories were characterized by a gradual acquisition of stage-specific transcription factor activities. We also identified evolutionary conserved and species-specific gene expression programs during both chicken and human germ-cell development. Collectively, these novel analyses provide mechanistic insights into chicken germ-cell development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Deivendran Rengaraj
- Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, and Research Institute of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, South Korea
| | - Dong Gon Cha
- Department of New Biology, DGIST, Daegu 42988, South Korea
| | - Hong Jo Lee
- Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, and Research Institute of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, South Korea
| | - Kyung Youn Lee
- Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, and Research Institute of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, South Korea
| | - Yoon Ha Choi
- Department of New Biology, DGIST, Daegu 42988, South Korea
- Department of Life Sciences, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), Pohang 37673, South Korea
| | - Kyung Min Jung
- Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, and Research Institute of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, South Korea
| | - Young Min Kim
- Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, and Research Institute of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, South Korea
| | - Hee Jung Choi
- Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, and Research Institute of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, South Korea
| | - Hyeon Jeong Choi
- Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, and Research Institute of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, South Korea
| | - Eunhui Yoo
- Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, and Research Institute of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, South Korea
| | - Seung Je Woo
- Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, and Research Institute of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, South Korea
| | - Jin Se Park
- Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, and Research Institute of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, South Korea
| | - Kyung Je Park
- Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, and Research Institute of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, South Korea
| | - Jong Kyoung Kim
- Department of New Biology, DGIST, Daegu 42988, South Korea
- Department of Life Sciences, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), Pohang 37673, South Korea
- Corresponding authors at: POSTECH, 77 Cheongam-ro, Nam-gu, Pohang-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do 37673, South Korea (J.K. Kim). Seoul National University, 1 Gwanak-ro, Gwanak-gu, Seoul 08826, South Korea (J.Y. Han).
| | - Jae Yong Han
- Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, and Research Institute of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, South Korea
- Corresponding authors at: POSTECH, 77 Cheongam-ro, Nam-gu, Pohang-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do 37673, South Korea (J.K. Kim). Seoul National University, 1 Gwanak-ro, Gwanak-gu, Seoul 08826, South Korea (J.Y. Han).
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Hu T, Taylor L, Sherman A, Keambou Tiambo C, Kemp SJ, Whitelaw B, Hawken RJ, Djikeng A, McGrew MJ. A low-tech, cost-effective and efficient method for safeguarding genetic diversity by direct cryopreservation of poultry embryonic reproductive cells. eLife 2022; 11:74036. [PMID: 35074046 PMCID: PMC8789256 DOI: 10.7554/elife.74036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Chickens are an important resource for smallholder farmers who raise locally adapted, genetically distinct breeds for eggs and meat. The development of efficient reproductive technologies to conserve and regenerate chicken breeds safeguards existing biodiversity and secures poultry genetic resources for climate resilience, biosecurity, and future food production. The majority of the over 1600 breeds of chicken are raised in low and lower to middle income countries under resource-limited, small-scale production systems, which necessitates a low-tech, cost-effective means of conserving diversity is needed. Here, we validate a simple biobanking technique using cryopreserved embryonic chicken gonads. The gonads are quickly isolated, visually sexed, pooled by sex, and cryopreserved. Subsequently, the stored material is thawed and dissociated before injection into sterile host chicken embryos. By using pooled GFP and RFP-labelled donor gonadal cells and Sire Dam Surrogate mating, we demonstrate that chicks deriving entirely from male and female donor germ cells are hatched. This technology will enable ongoing efforts to conserve chicken genetic diversity for both commercial and smallholder farmers, and to preserve existing genetic resources at poultry research facilities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tuanjun Hu
- Centre for Tropical Livestock Genetics and Health (CTLGH), The Roslin Institute, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush Campus
- The Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush Campus
| | - Lorna Taylor
- The Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush Campus
| | - Adrian Sherman
- The Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush Campus
| | - Christian Keambou Tiambo
- Centre for Tropical Livestock Genetics and Health (CTLGH), International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI)
| | - Steven J Kemp
- Centre for Tropical Livestock Genetics and Health (CTLGH), International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI)
| | - Bruce Whitelaw
- The Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush Campus
| | | | - Appolinaire Djikeng
- Centre for Tropical Livestock Genetics and Health (CTLGH), The Roslin Institute, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush Campus
| | - Michael J McGrew
- Centre for Tropical Livestock Genetics and Health (CTLGH), The Roslin Institute, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush Campus
- The Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush Campus
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Rengaraj D, Cha DG, Park KJ, Lee KY, Woo SJ, Han JY. Finer resolution analysis of transcriptional programming during the active migration of chicken primordial germ cells. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2022; 20:5911-5924. [PMID: 36382185 PMCID: PMC9636429 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2022.10.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2022] [Revised: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Primordial germ cells (PGCs) in chickens polarize and move passively toward the anterior region by the morphogenetic movement of the embryo. Further migration of PGCs towards the genital ridge via the germinal crescent region and blood vessels occurs actively through the chemoattractive signals. The mechanisms of initiation of PGCs migration, lodging the PGCs in the vascular system, and colonization of PGCs in the gonads are well-studied. However, transcriptome sequencing-based cues directing the migration of the PGCs towards gonads, some of the relevant molecules, biological processes, and transcription factors (TFs) are less studied in chickens. The current study comprehensively interprets the transcriptional programming of PGCs during their active migration (E2.5 to E8). Current results revealed several vital understandings, including a set of genes that upregulated male-specifically (XPA, GNG10, RPL17, RPS23, and NDUFS4) or female-specifically (HINTW, NIPBL, TERAL2, ATP5F1AW, and SMAD2W) in migrating PGCs, and transcriptionally distinct PGCs, particularly in the gonadal environment. We identified DNA methylation and histone modification-associated genes that are novel in chicken PGCs and show a time-dependent enrichment in migrating PGCs. We further identified a large number of differentially expressed genes (DEGs, including TFs) in blood PGCs (at E2.5) compared to gonadal PGCs (at E8) in both sexes; however, this difference was greater in males. We also revealed the enriched biological processes and signaling pathways of significant DEGs identified commonly, male-specifically, or female-specifically between the PGCs isolated at E2.5, E6, and E8. Collectively, these analyses provide molecular insights into chicken PGCs during their active migration phase.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Deivendran Rengaraj
- Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, and Research Institute of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
| | - Dong Gon Cha
- Department of New Biology, DGIST, Daegu 42988, Korea
| | - Kyung Je Park
- Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, and Research Institute of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
| | - Kyung Youn Lee
- Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, and Research Institute of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
| | - Seung Je Woo
- Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, and Research Institute of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
| | - Jae Yong Han
- Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, and Research Institute of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
- Corresponding author at: Seoul National University, 1 Gwanak-ro, Gwanak-gu, Seoul 08826, Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Słowińska M, Paukszto Ł, Pardyak L, Jastrzębski JP, Liszewska E, Wiśniewska J, Kozłowski K, Jankowski J, Bilińska B, Ciereszko A. Transcriptome and Proteome Analysis Revealed Key Pathways Regulating Final Stage of Oocyte Maturation of the Turkey ( Meleagris gallopavo). Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms221910589. [PMID: 34638931 PMCID: PMC8508634 DOI: 10.3390/ijms221910589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2021] [Revised: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
In birds, the zona pellucida (ZP) matrix that surrounds the ovulated oocyte—called the inner perivitelline layer—is involved in sperm–zona interaction and successful fertilization. To identify the important genes and proteins connected with the final step of egg development, next-generation sequencing and two-dimensional electrophoresis, combined with mass spectrometry, were used for the analysis of mature oocytes at the F1 developmental stage. A total of 8161 genes and 228 proteins were annotated. Six subfamilies of genes, with codes ZP, ZP1–4, ZPD, and ZPAX, were identified, with the dominant expression of ZPD. The main expression site for ZP1 was the liver; however, granulosa cells may also participate in local ZP1 secretion. A ubiquitination system was identified in mature oocytes, where ZP1 was found to be the main ubiquitinated protein. Analysis of transcripts classified in estrogen receptor (ESR) signaling indicated the presence of ESR1 and ESR2, as well as a set of estrogen-dependent genes involved in both genomic and nongenomic mechanisms for the regulation of gene expression by estrogen. Oxidative phosphorylation was found to be a possible source of adenosine triphosphate, and the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 signaling pathway could be involved in the response against oxidative stress. Oocyte–granulosa cell communication by tight, adherens, and gap junctions seems to be essential for the final step of oocyte maturation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mariola Słowińska
- Department of Gamete and Embryo Biology, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences in Olsztyn, 10-748 Olsztyn, Poland; (E.L.); (A.C.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +48-89-539-3173
| | - Łukasz Paukszto
- Department of Plant Physiology, Genetics and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland; (Ł.P.); (J.P.J.)
| | - Laura Pardyak
- Center of Experimental and Innovative Medicine, University of Agriculture in Krakow, 30-248 Kraków, Poland;
| | - Jan P. Jastrzębski
- Department of Plant Physiology, Genetics and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland; (Ł.P.); (J.P.J.)
| | - Ewa Liszewska
- Department of Gamete and Embryo Biology, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences in Olsztyn, 10-748 Olsztyn, Poland; (E.L.); (A.C.)
| | - Joanna Wiśniewska
- Department of Biological Function of Food, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences in Olsztyn, 10-748 Olsztyn, Poland;
| | - Krzysztof Kozłowski
- Department of Poultry Science, Faculty of Animal Bioengineering, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland; (K.K.); (J.J.)
| | - Jan Jankowski
- Department of Poultry Science, Faculty of Animal Bioengineering, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland; (K.K.); (J.J.)
| | - Barbara Bilińska
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Zoology, Jagiellonian University, 30-387 Kraków, Poland;
| | - Andrzej Ciereszko
- Department of Gamete and Embryo Biology, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences in Olsztyn, 10-748 Olsztyn, Poland; (E.L.); (A.C.)
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Estermann MA, Major AT, Smith CA. Genetic Regulation of Avian Testis Development. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:1459. [PMID: 34573441 PMCID: PMC8470383 DOI: 10.3390/genes12091459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2021] [Revised: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
As in other vertebrates, avian testes are the site of spermatogenesis and androgen production. The paired testes of birds differentiate during embryogenesis, first marked by the development of pre-Sertoli cells in the gonadal primordium and their condensation into seminiferous cords. Germ cells become enclosed in these cords and enter mitotic arrest, while steroidogenic Leydig cells subsequently differentiate around the cords. This review describes our current understanding of avian testis development at the cell biology and genetic levels. Most of this knowledge has come from studies on the chicken embryo, though other species are increasingly being examined. In chicken, testis development is governed by the Z-chromosome-linked DMRT1 gene, which directly or indirectly activates the male factors, HEMGN, SOX9 and AMH. Recent single cell RNA-seq has defined cell lineage specification during chicken testis development, while comparative studies point to deep conservation of avian testis formation. Lastly, we identify areas of future research on the genetics of avian testis development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Craig Allen Smith
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia; (M.A.E.); (A.T.M.)
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Shioda K, Odajima J, Kobayashi M, Kobayashi M, Cordazzo B, Isselbacher KJ, Shioda T. Transcriptomic and Epigenetic Preservation of Genetic Sex Identity in Estrogen-feminized Male Chicken Embryonic Gonads. Endocrinology 2021; 162:5973467. [PMID: 33170207 PMCID: PMC7745639 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqaa208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Whereas in ovo exposure of genetically male (ZZ) chicken embryos to exogenous estrogens temporarily feminizes gonads at the time of hatching, the morphologically ovarian ZZ-gonads (FemZZs for feminized ZZ gonads) are masculinized back to testes within 1 year. To identify the feminization-resistant "memory" of genetic male sex, FemZZs showing varying degrees of feminization were subjected to transcriptomic, DNA methylome, and immunofluorescence analyses. Protein-coding genes were classified based on their relative mRNA expression across normal ZZ-testes, genetically female (ZW) ovaries, and FemZZs. We identified a group of 25 genes that were strongly expressed in both ZZ-testes and FemZZs but dramatically suppressed in ZW-ovaries. Interestingly, 84% (21/25) of these feminization-resistant testicular marker genes, including the DMRT1 master masculinizing gene, were located in chromosome Z. Expression of representative marker genes of germline cells (eg, DAZL or DDX4/VASA) was stronger in FemZZs than normal ZZ-testes or ZW-ovaries. We also identified 231 repetitive sequences (RSs) that were strongly expressed in both ZZ-testes and FemZZs, but these RSs were not enriched in chromosome Z. Although 94% (165/176) of RSs exclusively expressed in ZW-ovaries were located in chromosome W, no feminization-inducible RS was detected in FemZZs. DNA methylome analysis distinguished FemZZs from normal ZZ- and ZW-gonads. Immunofluorescence analysis of FemZZ gonads revealed expression of DMRT1 protein in medullary SOX9+ somatic cells and apparent germline cell populations in both medulla and cortex. Taken together, our study provides evidence that both somatic and germline cell populations in morphologically feminized FemZZs maintain significant transcriptomic and epigenetic memories of genetic sex.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Keiko Shioda
- Center for Cancer Research, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Junko Odajima
- Center for Cancer Research, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Misato Kobayashi
- Center for Cancer Research, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Mutsumi Kobayashi
- Center for Cancer Research, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Bianca Cordazzo
- Center for Cancer Research, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Kurt J Isselbacher
- Center for Cancer Research, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Toshi Shioda
- Center for Cancer Research, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Correspondence: Toshi Shioda, Massachusetts General Hospital Center for Cancer Research, Building 149 – 7th Floor, 13th Street, Charlestown, Massachusetts 02129, USA. E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Transcriptome Sequencing and Comparative Analysis of Amphoteric ESCs and PGCs in Chicken ( Gallus gallus). Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10122228. [PMID: 33261034 PMCID: PMC7760303 DOI: 10.3390/ani10122228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2020] [Revised: 11/24/2020] [Accepted: 11/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Chicken (Gallus gallus) pluripotent embryonic stem cells (ESCs) and primordial germ cells (PGCs) can be broadly applied in the research of developmental and embryonic biology, but the difference between amphoteric ESCs and PGCs is still elusive. This study determined the sex of collected samples by identifying specific sex markers via polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and fluorescence activated cell sorter (FACS). RNA-seq was utilized to investigate the transcriptomic profile of amphoteric ESCs and PGCs in chicken. The results showed no significant differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in amphoteric ESCs and 227 DEGs exhibited in amphoteric PGCs. Moreover, those 227 DEGs were mainly enriched in 17 gene ontology (GO) terms and 27 pathways according to Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis. Furthermore, qRT-PCR was performed to verify RNA-seq results, and the results demonstrated that Notch1 was highly expressed in male PGCs. In summary, our results provided a knowledge base of chicken amphoteric ESCs and PGCs, which is helpful for future research in relevant biological processes.
Collapse
|
15
|
Lee BR, Rengaraj D, Choi HJ, Han JY. A novel F-box domain containing cyclin F like gene is required for maintaining the genome stability and survival of chicken primordial germ cells. FASEB J 2019; 34:1001-1017. [PMID: 31914591 DOI: 10.1096/fj.201901294r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2019] [Revised: 10/25/2019] [Accepted: 11/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The stability and survival of germ cells are controlled by the germline-specific genes, however, such genes are less known in the avian species. Using a microarray-based the National Center for Biotechnology Information Gene Expression Omnibus dataset, we found an unigene (Gga.9721) that upregulated in the chicken primordial germ cells (PGCs). The unigene showed 97% identities with an uncharacterized chicken cyclin F like gene. The predicted chicken cyclin F like gene was further characterized through expression and regulation in the chicken PGCs. The sequence analysis revealed that the gene shows identities with cyclin F gene and contains an F-box domain. The expression of chicken cyclin F like was detected specifically in the gonads, PGCs, and germline cells. The knockdown of cyclin F like gene resulted in DNA damage and apoptosis in the PGCs. The genes related to stemness and germness were downregulated, whereas, genes related to apoptosis and DNA damage response were increased in the PGCs after the knockdown of chicken cyclin F like. We further observed that the Nanog homeobox controlled the transcriptional activity of chicken cyclin F like gene in PGCs. Collectively, the chicken cyclin F like gene, which is not reported in any other species, is required for maintaining the genome stability of germ cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bo Ram Lee
- Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, and Research Institute of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea.,Animal Biotechnology Division, National Institute of Animal Science, Rural Development Administration, Wanju-gun, Korea
| | - Deivendran Rengaraj
- Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, and Research Institute of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hee Jung Choi
- Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, and Research Institute of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jae Yong Han
- Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, and Research Institute of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
| |
Collapse
|