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Longobardi S, Klinger FG, Zheng W, Campitiello MR, D'Hooghe T, La Marca A. Gonadotropin Activity during Early Folliculogenesis and Implications for Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome and Premature Ovarian Insufficiency: A Narrative Review. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:7520. [PMID: 39062762 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25147520] [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: 06/07/2024] [Revised: 07/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Female fertility depends on the ovarian reserve of follicles, which is determined at birth. Primordial follicle development and oocyte maturation are regulated by multiple factors and pathways and classified into gonadotropin-independent and gonadotropin-dependent phases, according to the response to gonadotropins. Folliculogenesis has always been considered to be gonadotropin-dependent only from the antral stage, but evidence from the literature highlights the role of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) during early folliculogenesis with a potential role in the progression of the pool of primordial follicles. Hormonal and molecular pathway alterations during the very earliest stages of folliculogenesis may be the root cause of anovulation in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and in PCOS-like phenotypes related to antiepileptic treatment. Excessive induction of primordial follicle activation can also lead to premature ovarian insufficiency (POI), a condition characterized by menopause in women before 40 years of age. Future treatments aiming to suppress initial recruitment or prevent the growth of resting follicles could help in prolonging female fertility, especially in women with PCOS or POI. This review will briefly introduce the impact of gonadotropins on early folliculogenesis. We will discuss the influence of LH on ovarian reserve and its potential role in PCOS and POI infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Francesca Gioia Klinger
- Department of Histology and Embryology, University of Health Sciences, Saint Camillus International, Via di Sant'Alessandro 8, 00131 Rome, Italy
| | | | - Maria Rosaria Campitiello
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Physiopathology of Human Reproduction, ASL Salerno, 84124 Salerno, Italy
| | - Thomas D'Hooghe
- Merck KGaA, 64293 Darmstadt, Germany
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Biomedical Sciences Group, KU Leuven (University of Leuven), 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Antonio La Marca
- Department of Maternal-Child and Adult Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
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Zheng Y, Qiu Y, Wang Q, Gao M, Cao Z, Luan X. ADPN Regulates Oxidative Stress-Induced Follicular Atresia in Geese by Modulating Granulosa Cell Apoptosis and Autophagy. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5400. [PMID: 38791438 PMCID: PMC11121263 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25105400] [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: 04/13/2024] [Revised: 05/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Geese are susceptible to oxidative stress during reproduction, which can lead to follicular atresia and impact egg production. Follicular atresia is directly triggered by the apoptosis and autophagy of granulosa cells (GCs). Adiponectin (ADPN), which is secreted by adipose tissue, has good antioxidant and anti-apoptotic capacity, but its role in regulating the apoptosis of GCs in geese is unclear. To investigate this, this study examined the levels of oxidative stress, apoptosis, and autophagy in follicular tissues and GCs using RT-qPCR, Western blotting, immunofluorescence, flow cytometry, transcriptomics and other methods. Atretic follicles exhibited high levels of oxidative stress and apoptosis, and autophagic flux was obstructed. Stimulating GCs with H2O2 produced results similar to those of atretic follicles. The effects of ADPN overexpression and knockdown on oxidative stress, apoptosis and autophagy in GCs were investigated. ADPN was found to modulate autophagy and reduced oxidative stress and apoptosis in GCs, in addition to protecting them from H2O2-induced damage. These results may provide a reasonable reference for improving egg-laying performance of geese.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Zhongzan Cao
- Correspondence: (Z.C.); (X.L.); Tel.: +86-024-8848-7156 (Z.C. & X.L.)
| | - Xinhong Luan
- Correspondence: (Z.C.); (X.L.); Tel.: +86-024-8848-7156 (Z.C. & X.L.)
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3
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Yildiz S, Moolhuijsen LME, Visser JA. The Role of Anti-Müllerian Hormone in Ovarian Function. Semin Reprod Med 2024; 42:15-24. [PMID: 38781987 DOI: 10.1055/s-0044-1786732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) is a member of the transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) superfamily, whose actions are restricted to the endocrine-reproductive system. Initially known for its role in male sex differentiation, AMH plays a role in the ovary, acting as a gatekeeper in folliculogenesis by regulating the rate of recruitment and growth of follicles. In the ovary, AMH is predominantly expressed by granulosa cells of preantral and antral follicles (i.e., post primordial follicle recruitment and prior to follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) selection). AMH signals through a BMP-like signaling pathway in a manner distinct from other TGFβ family members. In this review, the latest insights in AMH processing, signaling, its regulation of spatial and temporal expression pattern, and functioning in folliculogenesis are summarized. In addition, effects of AMH variants on ovarian function are reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sena Yildiz
- Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Loes M E Moolhuijsen
- Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jenny A Visser
- Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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Ellibishy F, Tarek M, Abd-Elsalam MM, Elgayar N, El Bakly W. Metformin improves d-galactose induced premature ovarian insufficiency through PI3K-Akt-FOXO3a pathway. Adv Med Sci 2024; 69:70-80. [PMID: 38387407 DOI: 10.1016/j.advms.2024.02.004] [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: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 12/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Metformin (MET), a first-line treatment for type 2 diabetes mellitus, restores ovarian function in women with polycystic ovary syndrome. MET has been shown to increase the rate of success for in vitro fertilization when utilized in assisted reproductive technologies. This study was designed to examine the impact of MET on ovarian function and fertility in a mouse model of galactose-induced premature ovarian insufficiency (POI). We further investigated the underlying mechanisms. MATERIALS AND METHODS Female mice were divided into 4 groups: saline, d-galactose, d-galactose + MET, and MET. Body weight, ovarian index, and fertility were assessed. The hormonal profile was done. Advanced glycation end products (AGEPs), receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE), phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K), protein kinase B (Akt), forkhead box O3a (FOXO3a) expression were measured. Ovarian follicle counting and morphology were analyzed. Immunohistochemistry of cleaved caspase-3 expression was performed. RESULTS Our findings demonstrated that MET reversed irregularities in the estrus cycle, enhanced the ovarian index, and improved the abnormal levels of hormones and AGEs induced by d-galactose. Furthermore, the expression levels of PI3K, Akt, FOXO3a, and RAGE were upregulated with d-galactose. However, MET attenuated their expression levels. The primordial follicles ratio was improved, whereas atretic follicles and apoptotic-related cleaved caspase-3 expression were decreased in the d-galactose + MET group compared to the d-galactose group. CONCLUSION This study demonstrates that MET partially rescued ovarian dysfunction and apoptosis induced by d-galactose via a mechanism involving PI3K-Akt-FOXO3a pathway. Our finding proposed that MET may be a promising alternative treatment for POI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatima Ellibishy
- Clinical Pharmacology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Kafr Elsheikh University, Kafr Elsheikh, Egypt.
| | - Maha Tarek
- Clinical Pharmacology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Marwa M Abd-Elsalam
- Histology & Cell Biology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Kafr Elsheikh University, Kafr Elsheikh, Egypt
| | - Nesreen Elgayar
- Clinical Pharmacology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Wesam El Bakly
- Clinical Pharmacology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
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Chacón C, Mounieres C, Ampuero S, Urzúa U. Transcriptomic Analysis of the Aged Nulliparous Mouse Ovary Suggests a Stress State That Promotes Pro-Inflammatory Lipid Signaling and Epithelial Cell Enrichment. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 25:513. [PMID: 38203684 PMCID: PMC10779227 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25010513] [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: 11/02/2023] [Revised: 12/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/25/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Ovarian cancer (OC) incidence and mortality peaks at post-menopause while OC risk is either reduced by parity or increased by nulliparity during fertile life. The long-term effect of nulliparity on ovarian gene expression is largely unknown. In this study, we describe a bioinformatic/data-mining analysis of 112 coding genes upregulated in the aged nulliparous (NP) mouse ovary compared to the aged multiparous one as reference. Canonical gene ontology and pathway analyses indicated a pro-oxidant, xenobiotic-like state accompanied by increased metabolism of inflammatory lipid mediators. Up-regulation of typical epithelial cell markers in the aged NP ovary was consistent with synchronized overexpression of Cldn3, Ezr, Krt7, Krt8 and Krt18 during the pre-neoplastic phase of mOSE cell cultures in a former transcriptome study. In addition, 61/112 genes were upregulated in knockout mice for Fshr and for three other tumor suppressor genes (Pten, Cdh1 and Smad3) known to regulate follicular homeostasis in the mammalian ovary. We conclude that the aged NP ovary displays a multifaceted stress state resulting from oxidative imbalance and pro-inflammatory lipid signaling. The enriched epithelial cell content might be linked to follicle depletion and is consistent with abundant clefts and cysts observed in aged human and mouse ovaries. It also suggests a mesenchymal-to-epithelial transition in the mOSE of the aged NP ovary. Our analysis suggests that in the long term, nulliparity worsens a variety of deleterious effects of aging and senescence thereby increasing susceptibility to cancer initiation in the ovary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Chacón
- Laboratorio de Genómica Aplicada, Departamento de Oncología Básico Clínica, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago 8380453, Chile; (C.C.); (C.M.)
| | - Constanza Mounieres
- Laboratorio de Genómica Aplicada, Departamento de Oncología Básico Clínica, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago 8380453, Chile; (C.C.); (C.M.)
| | - Sandra Ampuero
- Programa de Virología, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago 8380453, Chile;
| | - Ulises Urzúa
- Laboratorio de Genómica Aplicada, Departamento de Oncología Básico Clínica, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago 8380453, Chile; (C.C.); (C.M.)
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Kashi O, Meirow D. Overactivation or Apoptosis: Which Mechanisms Affect Chemotherapy-Induced Ovarian Reserve Depletion? Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16291. [PMID: 38003481 PMCID: PMC10671775 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242216291] [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: 08/13/2023] [Revised: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Dormant primordial follicles (PMF), which constitute the ovarian reserve, are recruited continuously into the cohort of growing follicles in the ovary throughout female reproductive life. Gonadotoxic chemotherapy was shown to diminish the ovarian reserve pool, to destroy growing follicle population, and to cause premature ovarian insufficiency (POI). Three primary mechanisms have been proposed to account for this chemotherapy-induced PMF depletion: either indirectly via over-recruitment of PMF, by stromal damage, or through direct toxicity effects on PMF. Preventative pharmacological agents intervening in these ovotoxic mechanisms may be ideal candidates for fertility preservation (FP). This manuscript reviews the mechanisms that disrupt follicle dormancy causing depletion of the ovarian reserve. It describes the most widely studied experimental inhibitors that have been deployed in attempts to counteract these affects and prevent follicle depletion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oren Kashi
- The Morris Kahn Fertility Preservation Center, Sheba Medical Center, Ramat Gan 5262000, Israel;
| | - Dror Meirow
- The Morris Kahn Fertility Preservation Center, Sheba Medical Center, Ramat Gan 5262000, Israel;
- Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel
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Zhou J, Lin L, Liu L, Wang J, Xia G, Wang C. The transcriptome reveals the molecular regulatory network of primordial follicle depletion in obese mice. Fertil Steril 2023; 120:899-910. [PMID: 37247688 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2023.05.165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Revised: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore the dynamic transcriptional regulatory network of primordial follicle fate in obese mice to elucidate the potential mechanism of primordial follicle depletion. DESIGN Experimental study and transcriptomic analysis. ANIMALS Healthy (n=15) and obese (n=15) female mice. INTERVENTIONS Six-week-old CD-1 mice were divided into healthy and high-fat diet groups and fed continuously for 12 weeks. The diet of healthy mice contained 10% fat. The diet of high-fat mice contained 60% fat. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Primordial to primary follicle transition rate, gene expression changes, enriched Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathways, and ferroptosis. RESULTS Primordial follicle depletion was increased in the ovaries of obese mice. We found that deposited fat around primordial and primary follicles of obese mice was higher than that for healthy mice. The proliferation of granulosa cells around primary follicles was increased in obese mice. In addition, we uncovered specific gene signatures associated with the primordial to primary follicle transition (PPT) in obese mice using laser capture microdissection RNA sequencing analysis. Gene set enrichment analysis indicated that ferroptosis, cell oxidation, vascular endothelial growth factor, and mammalian target of rapamycin signaling were increased significantly in the primordial follicles of obese mice. Notably, the ferritin, acyl CoA synthetase long-chain family member 4, and solid carrier family 7 member 11 associated proteins of the ferroptosis signaling pathway were significantly increased in the PPT phase of obese mice. CONCLUSION Our work suggests that ferroptosis is a key pathway activated within immature ovarian follicles in the context of obesity and that the process may be involved in the physiological regulation of the PPT as well.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaqi Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Lin Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Longping Liu
- School of Life Sciences and Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Structural Biology, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Jianbin Wang
- School of Life Sciences and Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Structural Biology, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Guoliang Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education for Conservation and Utilization of Special Biological Resources in Western China, College of Life Science, Ningxia University, People's Republic of China
| | - Chao Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, People's Republic of China.
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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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Liu M, Xiao B, Zhu Y, Chen M, Huang J, Guo H, Wang F. MicroRNA-144-3p protects against chemotherapy-induced apoptosis of ovarian granulosa cells and activation of primordial follicles by targeting MAP3K9. Eur J Med Res 2023; 28:264. [PMID: 37537658 PMCID: PMC10399062 DOI: 10.1186/s40001-023-01231-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Premature ovarian failure (POF) is defined by amenorrhea, ovarian atrophy, hypoestrogenism, elevated gonadotropin level, and infertility under the age of 40. POF is frequently induced by chemotherapeutic agents. However, the underlying mechanisms regarding chemotherapy-mediated damage to ovarian function are unclear. In this study, enhanced apoptosis of granulosa cells (GCs) and aberrant activation of primordial follicles were observed in a POF mouse model induced by cisplatin. We subsequently observed significant downregulation of miR-144-3p and upregulation of mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase kinase 9 (MAP3K9) in primary ovarian GCs from POF mice, as revealed by microarrays. Furthermore, MAP3K9 expression was higher in human ovarian granulosa cells (COV434) treated with cisplatin and was identified as a novel target of miR-144-3p. Functional analysis revealed that miR-144-3p attenuated cisplatin induced apoptosis of GCs via silencing MAP3K9 expression, which suppressed the activity of the downstream p38 mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway. Meanwhile, miR-144-3p prevented premature primordial follicle depletion in cisplatin-induced POF mice through targeting Map3k9, which led to a decline in the phosphorylation and activation of the phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase b (AKT) pathway. Taken together, this study revealed the protective effects of miR-144-3p on ovarian function and shed light on the epigenetic regulatory mechanism in the development of POF, which might provide new biomarkers for the ovarian reserve.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Liu
- Department of Medical Genetics, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Bang Xiao
- Department of Medical Genetics, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Yiqing Zhu
- Department of Medical Genetics, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Meiting Chen
- Department of Medical Genetics, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Jinfeng Huang
- Department of Medical Genetics, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Haiyan Guo
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China.
| | - Fang Wang
- Department of Medical Genetics, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China.
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Zhang L, Zou J, Wang Z, Li L. A Subpathway and Target Gene Cluster-Based Approach Uncovers lncRNAs Associated with Human Primordial Follicle Activation. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:10525. [PMID: 37445702 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241310525] [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: 05/21/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are emerging as a critical regulator in controlling the expression level of genes involved in cell differentiation and development. Primordial follicle activation (PFA) is the first step for follicle maturation, and excessive PFA results in premature ovarian insufficiency (POI). However, the correlation between lncRNA and cell differentiation was largely unknown, especially during PFA. In this study, we observed the expression level of lncRNA was more specific than protein-coding genes in both follicles and granulosa cells, suggesting lncRNA might play a crucial role in follicle development. Hence, a systematical framework was needed to infer the functions of lncRNAs during PFA. Additionally, an increasing number of studies indicate that the subpathway is more precise in reflecting biological processes than the entire pathway. Given the complex expression patterns of lncRNA target genes, target genes were further clustered based on their expression similarity and classification performance to reveal the activated/inhibited gene modules, which intuitively illustrated the diversity of lncRNA regulation. Moreover, the knockdown of SBF2-AS1 in the A549 cell line and ZFAS1 in the SK-Hep1 cell line further validated the function of SBF2-AS1 in regulating the Hippo signaling subpathway and ZFAS1 in the cell cycle subpathway. Overall, our findings demonstrated the importance of subpathway analysis in uncovering the functions of lncRNAs during PFA, and paved new avenues for future lncRNA-associated research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Zhang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Proteomics, Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Jiyuan Zou
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Proteomics, Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Zhihao Wang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Proteomics, Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Lin Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Proteomics, Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
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Liu FX, Sun Y. Identification of the active ingredients and pharmacological effects of Kuntai capsules in the treatment of primary ovarian insufficiency: A review. Medicine (Baltimore) 2023; 102:e33884. [PMID: 37233423 PMCID: PMC10219746 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000033884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Kuntai capsules are effective in controlling primary ovarian insufficiency (POI). However, the precise mechanisms underlying the pharmacological effects of Kuntai capsules remain unclear. This study aimed to screen the active components and underlying mechanisms of Kuntai capsules for POI treatment using network pharmacology protocols and molecular docking technology. Potential active constituents in the chemical composition of Kuntai capsules were obtained from the Traditional Chinese Medicine System Pharmacology Database. Targets for POI were obtained from the Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man and Gene Cards database. All target data were integrated to identify the active ingredients of POI treatment. Enrichment analyses were performed using the Database for Annotation, Visualization, and Integrated Discovery database. The STRING database and Cytoscape software were used for protein-protein interaction network construction and core target identification. Finally, a molecular docking analysis of the active components and core targets was performed. A total of 157 ingredients related to POI were identified. Enrichment analysis showed that these components might participate in the mitogen-activated protein kinase, tumor necrosis factor, phosphoinositide-3-kinase/AKT serine/threonine kinase 1, and forkhead box O signaling pathways. Further protein-protein interaction network analysis revealed that the core targets were Jun proto-oncogene, AKT serine/threonine kinase 1, tumor protein P53, interleukin 6, and the epidermal growth factor receptor. Molecular docking analysis showed that baicalein was the most active ingredient with the highest affinity for the core targets. This study identified baicalein as the core functional component and elucidated the potential pharmacological effects of Kuntai capsule in the treatment of POI.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yan Sun
- The Reproductive Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Nanning, China
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12
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Xia L, Shen Y, Liu S, Du J. Iron overload triggering ECM-mediated Hippo/YAP pathway in follicle development: a hypothetical model endowed with therapeutic implications. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1174817. [PMID: 37223010 PMCID: PMC10200985 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1174817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Disruption of iron homeostasis plays a negative role in follicle development. The dynamic changes in follicle growth are dependent on Hippo/YAP signaling and mechanical forces. However, little is known about the liaison between iron overload and the Hippo/YAP signalling pathway in term of folliculogenesis. Here, based on the available evidence, we established a hypothesized model linking excessive iron, extracellular matrix (ECM), transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) and Hippo/Yes-associated protein (YAP) signal regarding follicle development. Hypothetically, the TGF-β signal and iron overload may play a synergistic role in ECM production via YAP. We speculate that the dynamic homeostasis of follicular iron interacts with YAP, increasing the risk of ovarian reserve loss and may enhance the sensitivity of follicles to accumulated iron. Hence, therapeutic interventions targeting iron metabolism disorders, and Hippo/YAP signal may alter the consequences of the impaired developmental process based on our hypothesis, which provides potential targets and inspiration for further drug discovery and development applied to clinical treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingjin Xia
- National Health Commission of the People's Republic of China (NHC) Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies), School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yupei Shen
- National Health Commission of the People's Republic of China (NHC) Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies), School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Suying Liu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jing Du
- National Health Commission of the People's Republic of China (NHC) Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies), School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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13
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Liu F, Wan Q, Liu P, Miao D, Dai X, Chen L. Loss of p16 does not protect against premature ovarian insufficiency caused by alkylating agents. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2023; 23:151. [PMID: 36890528 PMCID: PMC9993597 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-023-05476-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: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chemical agents such as alkylating agents (AAs) that are commonly used for the treatment of cancer cause great damage to the ovaries, thereby significantly increasing the risk of premature ovarian insufficiency (POI). However, the exact molecules underlying AA-induced POI remain largely obscure. Upregulation of the p16 gene may contribute to the progression of POI. As yet, no in vivo data from p16-deficient (KO) mice are available to demonstrate a critical role of p16 in POI. In the present study, we employed p16 KO mice to investigate whether loss of p16 could protect against POI caused by AAs. METHODS WT mice and their p16 KO littermates received a single dose of BUL + CTX to establish an AA-induced POI mouse model. One month later, oestrous cycles were monitored. Three months later, some of the mice were sacrificed to collect sera for measurements of hormone levels and ovaries for measurements of follicle counts, the proliferation and apoptosis of granulosa cells, ovarian stromal fibrosis and vessels. The remaining mice were mated with fertile males for the fertility test. RESULTS Our results showed that treatment with BUL + CTX significantly disrupted the oestrous cycles, increased the levels of FSH and LH while decreasing the levels of E2 and AMH, decreased the counts of primordial follicles and growing follicles while increasing the counts of atretic follicles, reduced the vascularized area in the ovarian stroma, and decreased fertility. All of these results were comparable between WT and p16 KO mice treated with BUL + CTX. In addition, ovarian fibrosis was not increased significantly in WT and p16 KO mice treated with BUL + CTX. Growing follicles with normal appearance had normally proliferating granulosa cells (without apparent apoptosis). CONCLUSION We concluded that genetic ablation of the p16 gene did not attenuate ovarian damage or help preserve the fertility of mice challenged by AAs. This study demonstrated for the first time that p16 is dispensable for AA-induced POI. Our preliminary findings suggest that targeting p16 alone may not preserve the ovarian reserve and fertility of females treated with AAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei Liu
- The Center for Reproductive Medicine, Changzhou Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Changzhou Medical Center, Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Qin Wan
- The Center for Reproductive Medicine, Changzhou Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Changzhou Medical Center, Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Pengfei Liu
- Kebiao Medical Testing Center, Changzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Dengshun Miao
- The Research Center for Aging, Affiliated Friendship Plastic Surgery Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiuliang Dai
- The Center for Reproductive Medicine, Changzhou Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Changzhou Medical Center, Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Li Chen
- The Center for Reproductive Medicine, Changzhou Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Changzhou Medical Center, Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou, Jiangsu, China.
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14
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Zhang T, He M, Zhang J, Tong Y, Chen T, Wang C, Pan W, Xiao Z. Mechanisms of primordial follicle activation and new pregnancy opportunity for premature ovarian failure patients. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1113684. [PMID: 36926197 PMCID: PMC10011087 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1113684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Primordial follicles are the starting point of follicular development and the basic functional unit of female reproduction. Primordial follicles are formed around birth, and most of the primordial follicles then enter a dormant state. Since primordial follicles are limited in number and can't be renewed, dormant primordial follicles cannot be reversed once they enter the growing state. Thus, the orderly occurrence of primordial follicles selective activation directly affects the rate of follicle consumption and thus determines the length of female reproductive lifespan. Studies have found that appropriately inhibiting the activation rate of primordial follicles can effectively slow down the rate of follicle consumption, maintain fertility and delay ovarian aging. Based on the known mechanisms of primordial follicle activation, primordial follicle in vitro activation (IVA) technique has been clinically developed. IVA can help patients with premature ovarian failure, middle-aged infertile women, or infertile women due to gynecological surgery treatment to solve infertility problems. The study of the mechanism of selective activation of primordial follicles can contribute to the development of more efficient and safe IVA techniques. In this paper, recent mechanisms of primordial follicle activation and its clinical application are reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tuo Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China.,Transformation Engineering Research Center of Chronic Disease Diagnosis and Treatment, Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China.,Prenatal Diagnosis Center in Guizhou Province, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China.,College of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China.,Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis and Drug Research on Common Chronic Diseases, Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China.,Guizhou Institute of Precision Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Meina He
- College of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China.,Guizhou Institute of Precision Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Jingjing Zhang
- Transformation Engineering Research Center of Chronic Disease Diagnosis and Treatment, Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
| | - Yuntong Tong
- Transformation Engineering Research Center of Chronic Disease Diagnosis and Treatment, Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
| | - Tengxiang Chen
- Transformation Engineering Research Center of Chronic Disease Diagnosis and Treatment, Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China.,College of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China.,Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis and Drug Research on Common Chronic Diseases, Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China.,Guizhou Institute of Precision Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Chao Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Pan
- Prenatal Diagnosis Center in Guizhou Province, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Ziwen Xiao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
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15
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Xu B, Li Z, Li S, Ke H, Zhang Q, Qin Y, Guo T. Pathogenic variants in TSC2 might cause premature ovarian insufficiency through activated mTOR induced hyperactivation of primordial follicles. Fertil Steril 2022; 118:1139-1149. [PMID: 36229297 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2022.08.853] [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: 09/19/2021] [Revised: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the role of tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) genes, including TSC1 and TSC2, in the pathogenesis of human premature ovarian insufficiency (POI). DESIGN Genetic and functional study. SETTING University-based reproductive medical center. PATIENT(S) Six patients from a cohort of 1,030 cases with idiopathic POI. INTERVENTION(S) Variants in TSC1 and TSC2 were screened through the largest in-house database of whole exome sequencing performed in 1,030 patients with idiopathic POI. The pathogenic effects of the variants were further verified by functional studies. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) TSC1 or TSC2 variant and functional characteristics. RESULT(S) Five pathogenic heterozygous variants in TSC2 were identified in 6 patients with POI. Functional studies showed these variants impaired the repressive effect of TSC2 on mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway by disrupting the formation of TSC complex or its GTPase-activating protein activity. Furthermore, in vitro ovarian culture assay showed that TSC2 p.R98Q led to hyperactivation of mTOR pathway thereby triggering primordial follicle activation. CONCLUSION(S) The present study identified pathogenic variants of TSC2 in patients with POI, firstly suggested defective TSC/mTOR pathway mediated hyperactivation of primordial follicle participating in the pathogenesis of POI, giving insights into new targets of genetic counseling and clinical prevention for POI. Considering the pivotal role of TSC2 variants in diagnosis of TSC syndrome, the present study also highlighted the importance of history collection and long-term follow-up for the TSC2 variants carriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bingying Xu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, 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 of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; Shandong Provincial Clinical Medicine Research Center for Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhuqing Li
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, 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 of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; Shandong Provincial Clinical Medicine Research Center for Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Shan Li
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, 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 of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; Shandong Provincial Clinical Medicine Research Center for Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Hanni Ke
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, 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 of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; Shandong Provincial Clinical Medicine Research Center for Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Qian Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, 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 of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; Shandong Provincial Clinical Medicine Research Center for Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Yingying Qin
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, 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 of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; Shandong Provincial Clinical Medicine Research Center for Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Ting Guo
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, 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 of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; Shandong Provincial Clinical Medicine Research Center for Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
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16
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Bai X, Wang S. Signaling pathway intervention in premature ovarian failure. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:999440. [PMID: 36507521 PMCID: PMC9733706 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.999440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Premature ovarian failure (POF) is a multifactorial disease that refers to the occurrence of secondary amenorrhea, estrogen decrease, and gonadotropin increase in women under the age of 40. The prevalence of POF is increasing year by year, and the existing instances can be categorized as primary or secondary cases. This disease has adverse effects on both the physiology and psychology of women. Hormone replacement therapy is the recommended treatment for POF, and a multidisciplinary strategy is required to enhance the quality of life of patients. According to recent studies, the primary mechanism of POF is the depletion of ovarian reserve function as a result of increased primordial follicular activation or primordial follicular insufficiency. Therefore, understanding the processes of primordial follicle activation and associated pathways and exploring effective interventions are important for the treatment of POF.
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17
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Gonfloni S, Jodice C, Gustavino B, Valentini E. DNA Damage Stress Response and Follicle Activation: Signaling Routes of Mammalian Ovarian Reserve. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232214379. [PMID: 36430860 PMCID: PMC9693393 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232214379] [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: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Chemotherapy regimens and radiotherapy are common strategies to fight cancer. In women, these therapies may cause side effects such as premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) and infertility. Clinical strategies to protect the ovarian reserve from the lethal effect of cancer therapies needs better understanding of the mechanisms underlying iatrogenic loss of follicle reserve. Recent reports demonstrate a critical role for p53 and CHK2 in the oocyte response to different DNA stressors, which are commonly used to treat cancer. Here we review the molecular mechanisms underlying the DNA damage stress response (DDR) and discuss crosstalk between DDR and signaling pathways implicated in primordial follicle activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefania Gonfloni
- Department of Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Della Ricerca Scientifica, 00133 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Carla Jodice
- Department of Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Della Ricerca Scientifica, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Bianca Gustavino
- Department of Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Della Ricerca Scientifica, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Elvia Valentini
- Department of Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Della Ricerca Scientifica, 00133 Rome, Italy
- PhD Program in Cellular and Molecular Biology, 00133 Rome, Italy
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18
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Zhao Y, Zhang Y, Liu D, Feng H, Wang X, Su J, Yao Y, Ng EHY, Yeung WSB, Li RHW, Rodriguez-Wallberg KA, Liu K. Identification of curcumin as a novel potential drug for promoting the development of small ovarian follicles for infertility treatment. PNAS NEXUS 2022; 1:pgac108. [PMID: 36741430 PMCID: PMC9896916 DOI: 10.1093/pnasnexus/pgac108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 07/02/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
In-vitro fertilization is an effective treatment for various causes of infertility. However, management of women with poor ovarian response or premature ovarian insufficiency remains challenging because these women have underdeveloped small ovarian follicles that do not respond to hormone treatment. In-vitro activation of small follicles has been developed but its efficiency has much room for improvement. In the current study, we provide several lines of evidence showing that curcumin, an FDA-approved traditional medicine, can specifically promote the development of mouse ovarian follicles from the primary to secondary stage, which greatly potentiates these small follicles for subsequent in-vivo development into antral follicles that can be ovulated. Mechanistically, we show that curcumin promotes the proliferation and differentiation of granulosa cells and the growth of oocytes by activating the phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase (PI3K) signaling pathway. Most importantly, we show that in-vitro treatment of human ovarian tissues with curcumin can promote the in-vivo survival and development of small human ovarian follicles, showing that curcumin can be used as a potential drug to increase the success rate of in-vitro activation of small human follicles. We thus identify curcumin as a novel potential drug for promoting the development of small human ovarian follicles for infertility treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Zhao
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Center of Assisted Reproduction and Embryology, The University of Hong Kong—Shenzhen Hospital, Haiyuan First Road 1, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518053, China,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
| | - Yihui Zhang
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Center of Assisted Reproduction and Embryology, The University of Hong Kong—Shenzhen Hospital, Haiyuan First Road 1, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518053, China,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
| | - Dongteng Liu
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Center of Assisted Reproduction and Embryology, The University of Hong Kong—Shenzhen Hospital, Haiyuan First Road 1, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518053, China,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
| | - Haiwei Feng
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Center of Assisted Reproduction and Embryology, The University of Hong Kong—Shenzhen Hospital, Haiyuan First Road 1, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518053, China
| | - Xiaohui Wang
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Center of Assisted Reproduction and Embryology, The University of Hong Kong—Shenzhen Hospital, Haiyuan First Road 1, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518053, China
| | - Jiajun Su
- Department of Anatomical Pathology, The University of Hong Kong—Shenzhen Hospital, Haiyuan First Road 1, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518053, China
| | - Yuanqing Yao
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Center of Assisted Reproduction and Embryology, The University of Hong Kong—Shenzhen Hospital, Haiyuan First Road 1, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518053, China
| | - Ernest H Y Ng
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Center of Assisted Reproduction and Embryology, The University of Hong Kong—Shenzhen Hospital, Haiyuan First Road 1, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518053, China,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
| | - William S B Yeung
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Center of Assisted Reproduction and Embryology, The University of Hong Kong—Shenzhen Hospital, Haiyuan First Road 1, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518053, China,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
| | - Raymond H W Li
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Center of Assisted Reproduction and Embryology, The University of Hong Kong—Shenzhen Hospital, Haiyuan First Road 1, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518053, China,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
| | | | - Kui Liu
- To whom correspondence should be addressed:
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19
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Chang CL, Chin TH, Hsu YC, Hsueh AJ. Whole ovary laparoscopic incisions improve hormonal response and fertility in extremely poor ovarian response patients. J Minim Invasive Gynecol 2022; 29:905-914. [PMID: 35489579 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmig.2022.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2022] [Revised: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 04/24/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
STUDY OBJECTIVE Recent findings have shown mechanical fragmentation of ovarian cortex and ovarian drilling could promote follicle growth in patients with premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) and polycystic ovarian syndrome, respectively. A common element shared by these treatments is the mechanical disturbance of ovarian extracellular matrix (ECM) tissues. We thus hypothesized a simplified whole ovary laparoscopic incision (WOLI) procedure may provide the intrinsic stimuli needed to activate resting follicles in extremely poor ovarian response (EPOR) patients who had negligible chance of becoming pregnant with their own oocytes via modern IVF practice. DESIGN Retrospective pilot study SETTING: The study was conducted in a research medical center in Taiwan. PATIENTS Women who had multiple canceled ovarian stimulation cycles due to the lack of follicle growth were recruited. A total of 6 EPOR patients received the WOLI procedure, which covers the whole surface of ovaries, in 2015-2017. INTERVENTIONS After receiving an outpatient WOLI procedure, ovarian response and follicle growth were monitored for 90 days with or without gonadotropin stimulation. Embryo quality and clinical outcomes were analyzed. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS Following the WOLI treatment, 5 out of 6 patients had significant increases in serum estradiol level and improved follicle growth (p = 0.000537). Multiple oocytes were retrieved from each of these patients, and it led to thawed embryo transfer cycles in four patients (p = 0.010). On average, the duration from the WOLI procedure to the first ovum pickup was 24 days (11-58 days). Following embryo transfer, two patients became pregnant and delivered healthy babies. Two other patients received embryo transfer, and one led to a chemical pregnancy. One patient had cryopreserved embryos with pending transfer. CONCLUSION The standardizable WOLI procedure restored hormonal responses in a majority of EPOR patients. Further validation of this novel and yet simple laparoscopic procedure, which requires only one laparoscopic surgery, may provide a practical option to reactivate the aging ovarian environment in EPOR and POI patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chia Lin Chang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital Linkou Medical Center, Chang Gung University, 5 Fu-Shin Street, Kweishan, Taoyuan, Taiwan.
| | - Tzu Hsuan Chin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital Linkou Medical Center, Chang Gung University, 5 Fu-Shin Street, Kweishan, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Ya Chiung Hsu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital Linkou Medical Center, Chang Gung University, 5 Fu-Shin Street, Kweishan, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Aaron J Hsueh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
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20
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Xu J, Zelinski MB. Oocyte quality following in vitro follicle development†. Biol Reprod 2021; 106:291-315. [PMID: 34962509 PMCID: PMC9004734 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioab242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2021] [Revised: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
In vitro follicle development (IVFD) is an adequate model to obtain basic knowledge of folliculogenesis and provides a tool for ovarian toxicity screening. IVFD yielding competent oocytes may also offer an option for fertility and species preservation. To promote follicle growth and oocyte maturation in vitro, various culture systems are utilized for IVFD in rodents, domestic animals, wild animals, nonhuman primates, and humans. Follicle culture conditions have been improved by optimizing gonadotropin levels, regulatory factors, nutrient supplements, oxygen concentration, and culture matrices. This review summarizes quality assessment of oocytes generated from in vitro-developed antral follicles from the preantral stage, including oocyte epigenetic and genetic profile, cytoplasmic and nuclear maturation, preimplantation embryonic development following in vitro fertilization, as well as pregnancy and live offspring after embryo transfer. The limitations of oocyte quality evaluation following IVFD and the gaps in our knowledge of IVFD to support proper oocyte development are also discussed. The information may advance our understanding of the requirements for IVFD, with a goal of producing competent oocytes with genetic integrity to sustain embryonic development resulting in healthy offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Xu
- Correspondence: Division of Reproductive & Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, 505 NW 185th Avenue, Beaverton, OR 97006, USA. Tel: +1 5033465411; Fax: +1 5033465585; E-mail:
| | - Mary B Zelinski
- Division of Reproductive & Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Beaverton, OR, USA,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
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21
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Transcriptomic Profile of New Gene Markers Encoding Proteins Responsible for Structure of Porcine Ovarian Granulosa Cells. BIOLOGY 2021; 10:biology10111214. [PMID: 34827207 PMCID: PMC8615192 DOI: 10.3390/biology10111214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Revised: 11/06/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary The extracellular matrix (ECM) is involved in many physiological processes that occur in the ovary and affect reproduction in animals and humans. The ECM has been shown to significantly affect folliculogenesis, ovulation, and corpus luteum formation. This is mainly due to the involvement of ECM in intercellular signaling. In the present study, we report the gene expression profile of porcine granulosa cells during their primary in vitro culture. The genes presented are related to ECM formation but also to cadherins and integrins that influence intercellular dialogue. During the study, it was shown that most of the genes were upregulated. A detailed understanding of the expression of genes such as POSTN, CHI3L1, CAV-1, IRS1, DCN in in vitro culture of granulosa cells may provide a basis for further studies on the molecular mechanisms occurring within the ovary. Knowledge of ECM-related gene expression within granulosa cells can also be used to study the recently discovered stemness of these cells. Moreover, the presented data may serve for the development of assisted reproduction techniques, which, especially in vitro, are becoming increasingly common. Abstract The extracellular matrix (ECM) in granulosa cells is functionally very important, and it is involved in many processes related to ovarian follicle growth and ovulation. The aim of this study was to describe the expression profile of genes within granulosa cells that are associated with extracellular matrix formation, intercellular signaling, and cell–cell fusion. The material for this study was ovaries of sexually mature pigs obtained from a commercial slaughterhouse. Laboratory-derived granulosa cells (GCs) from ovarian follicles were cultured in a primary in vitro culture model. The extracted genetic material (0, 48, 96, and 144 h) were subjected to microarray expression analysis. Among 81 genes, 66 showed increased expression and only 15 showed decreased expression were assigned to 7 gene ontology groups “extracellular matrix binding”, “extracellular matrix structural constituent”, “binding, bridging”, “cadherin binding”, “cell adhesion molecule binding”, “collagen binding” and “cadherin binding involved in cell-cell adhesion”. The 10 genes with the highest expression (POSTN, ITGA2, FN1, LAMB1, ITGB3, CHI3L1, PCOLCE2, CAV1, DCN, COL14A1) and 10 of the most down-regulated (SPP1, IRS1, CNTLN, TMPO, PAICS, ANK2, ADAM23, ABI3BP, DNAJB1, IGF1) were selected for further analysis. The results were validated by RT-qPCR. The current results may serve as preliminary data for further analyses using in vitro granulosa cell cultures in assisted reproduction technologies, studies of pathological processes in the ovary as well as in the use of the stemness potential of GCs.
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