1
|
Cannarella R, Leanza C, Crafa A, Barbagallo F, La Vignera S, Condorelli RA, Calogero AE. Sperm Mesoderm Specific Transcript Gene Methylation Status in Infertile Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. World J Mens Health 2024; 42:543-554. [PMID: 37853535 PMCID: PMC11216954 DOI: 10.5534/wjmh.230094] [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: 04/12/2023] [Revised: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The mesoderm specific transcription (MEST) gene is a paternally expressed imprinted gene that appears to play a role in embryo survival. The latest meta-analysis on MEST methylation pattern in spermatozoa of infertile patients found higher methylation in spermatozoa from infertile patients than fertile controls. To provide an updated and comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis on the MEST gene methylation pattern in patients with abnormal sperm parameters compared to men with normal parameters. MATERIALS AND METHODS This meta-analysis was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42023397056) and performed following the MOOSE guidelines for Meta-analyses and Systematic Reviews of Observational Studies and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis Protocols (PRISMA-P). Only original articles evaluating MEST gene methylation in spermatozoa from patients with infertility or abnormalities in one or more sperm parameters compared to fertile or normozoospermic men were included. RESULTS Of 354 abstracts evaluated for eligibility, only 6 studies were included in the quantitative synthesis, involving a total of 301 patients and 163 controls. Our analysis showed significantly higher levels of MEST gene methylation in patients compared with controls (standard mean difference [SMD] 2.150, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.377, 3.922; p=0.017), although there was significant heterogeneity between studies (Q-value=239.90, p<0.001; I²=97.91%). No significant evidence of publication bias was found, although one study was sensitive enough to skew the results, leading to a loss of significance (SMD 1.543, 95% CI -0.300, 3.387; p=0.101). In meta-regression analysis, we found that the results were independent of both ages (p=0.6519) and sperm concentration (p=0.2360). CONCLUSIONS Sperm DNA methylation may be associated with epigenetic risk in assisted reproductive techniques (ART). The MEST gene could be included in the genetic panel of prospective studies aimed at identifying the most representative and cost-effective genes to be analyzed in couples undergoing ART.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rossella Cannarella
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
- Glickman Urological & Kidney Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH, USA.
| | - Claudia Leanza
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Andrea Crafa
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Federica Barbagallo
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Sandro La Vignera
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | | | - Aldo Eugenio Calogero
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Leanza C, Cannarella R, Barbagallo F, Gusmano C, Calogero AE. Does Sperm SNRPN Methylation Change with Fertility Status and Age? A Systematic Review and Meta-Regression Analysis. Biomedicines 2024; 12:445. [PMID: 38398047 PMCID: PMC10886537 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12020445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2023] [Revised: 02/03/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: The Small Nuclear Ribonucleoprotein Polypeptide N (SNRPN) gene is a paternally expressed imprinted gene, whose abnormal methylation appears to be associated with syndromes associated with the use of assisted reproductive techniques (ART), such as Angelman and Prader-Willi. Data present in the literature suggest the association between aberrant sperm SNRPN gene methylation and abnormal sperm parameters. The latest meta-analysis on the methylation pattern of this gene in spermatozoa of infertile patients published in 2017 reported a higher degree of methylation in the spermatozoa of infertile patients compared to fertile controls. Objectives: Here we provide an updated and comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis of the sperm methylation pattern of the SNRPN gene in patients with abnormal sperm parameters/infertility compared to men with normal sperm parameters/fertile. For the first time in the literature, we performed a meta-regression analysis to evaluate whether age or sperm concentration could influence the methylation status of this gene at the sperm level. Methods: This meta-analysis was registered in PROSPERO (n. CRD42023397056). The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis Protocols (PRISMA-P) and the MOOSE guidelines for meta-analyses and systematic reviews of observational studies were strictly followed in our meta-analysis. According to our Population Exposure Comparison Outcome (PECO) question, we included data from original articles assessing the levels of SNRPN gene methylation at the sperm level in infertile patients or patients with abnormalities in one or more sperm parameters compared to fertile or normozoospermic men. Results: Only six of 354 screened studies were included in the quantitative synthesis. Our analysis showed significantly higher levels of SNRPN gene methylation in patients compared to controls. However, significant heterogeneity was found between studies. In sensitivity analysis, no studies were sensitive enough to skew the results. The Egger test showed no publication bias. In the meta-regression analysis, the results were independent of age and sperm concentration in the overall population. The same results were found in the control group. However, when analyzing the patient group, a direct correlation was found between SNRPN methylation and age, indicating that the degree of methylation of the SNRPN gene increases with advancing age. Conclusions: Fertility status or abnormality of sperm parameters is associated with a change in the methylation pattern of the SNRPN gene, with higher levels found in infertile patients or those with abnormal sperm parameters compared to fertile men or men with normal sperm parameters. In the group of infertile patients/patients with abnormal sperm parameters, age was directly correlated to the degree of SNRPN methylation, highlighting the presence of a mechanism that explains the age-related altered sperm quality and the risk of ART. Despite some limitations present in the analyzed studies, our results support the inclusion of SNRPN methylation in the genetic panel of prospective studies aimed at identifying the most representative and cost-effective genes to analyze in couples who want to undergo ART.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Leanza
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (C.L.); (F.B.); (C.G.); (A.E.C.)
| | - Rossella Cannarella
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (C.L.); (F.B.); (C.G.); (A.E.C.)
- Glickman Urological and Kidney Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Federica Barbagallo
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (C.L.); (F.B.); (C.G.); (A.E.C.)
| | - Carmelo Gusmano
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (C.L.); (F.B.); (C.G.); (A.E.C.)
| | - Aldo E. Calogero
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (C.L.); (F.B.); (C.G.); (A.E.C.)
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Zhang G, Mao Y, Zhang Y, Huang H, Pan J. Assisted reproductive technology and imprinting errors: analyzing underlying mechanisms from epigenetic regulation. HUM FERTIL 2023; 26:864-878. [PMID: 37929309 DOI: 10.1080/14647273.2023.2261628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
With the increasing maturity and widespread application of assisted reproductive technology (ART), more attention has been paid to the health outcomes of offspring following ART. It is well established that children born from ART treatment are at an increased risk of imprinting errors and imprinting disorders. The disturbances of genetic imprinting are attributed to the overlap of ART procedures and important epigenetic reprogramming events during the development of gametes and early embryos, but the detailed mechanisms are hitherto obscure. In this review, we summarized the DNA methylation-dependent and independent mechanisms that control the dynamic epigenetic regulation of imprinted genes throughout the life cycle of a mammal, including erasure, establishment, and maintenance. In addition, we systematically described the dysregulation of imprinted genes in embryos conceived through ART and discussed the corresponding underlying mechanisms according to findings in animal models. This work is conducive to evaluating and improving the safety of ART.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gaochen Zhang
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Institute of Reproduction and Development, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Research Units of Embryo Original Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No. 2019RU056), Shanghai, China
| | - Yiting Mao
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Institute of Reproduction and Development, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yu Zhang
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Institute of Reproduction and Development, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hefeng Huang
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Institute of Reproduction and Development, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Research Units of Embryo Original Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No. 2019RU056), Shanghai, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Ministry of Education), Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jiexue Pan
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Institute of Reproduction and Development, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Research Units of Embryo Original Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No. 2019RU056), Shanghai, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Ministry of Education), Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Ahmadi H, Aghebati-Maleki L, Rashidiani S, Csabai T, Nnaemeka OB, Szekeres-Bartho J. Long-Term Effects of ART on the Health of the Offspring. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:13564. [PMID: 37686370 PMCID: PMC10487905 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241713564] [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: 08/17/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Assisted reproductive technologies (ART) significantly increase the chance of successful pregnancy and live birth in infertile couples. The different procedures for ART, including in vitro fertilization (IVF), intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), intrauterine insemination (IUI), and gamete intrafallopian tube transfer (GIFT), are widely used to overcome infertility-related problems. In spite of its inarguable usefulness, concerns about the health consequences of ART-conceived babies have been raised. There are reports about the association of ART with birth defects and health complications, e.g., malignancies, high blood pressure, generalized vascular functional disorders, asthma and metabolic disorders in later life. It has been suggested that hormonal treatment of the mother, and the artificial environment during the manipulation of gametes and embryos may cause genomic and epigenetic alterations and subsequent complications in the health status of ART-conceived babies. In the current study, we aimed to review the possible long-term consequences of different ART procedures on the subsequent health status of ART-conceived offspring, considering the confounding factors that might account for/contribute to the long-term consequences.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hamid Ahmadi
- Department of Medical Biology and Central Electron Microscope Laboratory, Medical School, Pécs University, 7624 Pécs, Hungary; (H.A.); (T.C.)
| | - Leili Aghebati-Maleki
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz 5165665931, Iran;
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz 5165665931, Iran
| | - Shima Rashidiani
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Medical School, Pécs University, 7624 Pécs, Hungary;
| | - Timea Csabai
- Department of Medical Biology and Central Electron Microscope Laboratory, Medical School, Pécs University, 7624 Pécs, Hungary; (H.A.); (T.C.)
- János Szentágothai Research Centre, Pécs University, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
- Endocrine Studies, Centre of Excellence, Pécs University, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
- National Laboratory of Human Reproduction, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Obodo Basil Nnaemeka
- Department of Laboratory Diagnostics, Faculty of Health Sciences, Pécs University, 7621 Pécs, Hungary;
| | - Julia Szekeres-Bartho
- Department of Medical Biology and Central Electron Microscope Laboratory, Medical School, Pécs University, 7624 Pécs, Hungary; (H.A.); (T.C.)
- János Szentágothai Research Centre, Pécs University, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
- Endocrine Studies, Centre of Excellence, Pécs University, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
- National Laboratory of Human Reproduction, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
- MTA—PTE Human Reproduction Research Group, 7624 Pecs, Hungary
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
DuMont M, Agostinis A, Singh K, Swan E, Buttle Y, Tropea D. Sex representation in neurodegenerative and psychiatric disorders' preclinical and clinical studies. Neurobiol Dis 2023:106214. [PMID: 37385457 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2023.106214] [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: 05/08/2023] [Revised: 06/10/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Many studies show the importance of biological sex for the onset, progression, and response to treatment in brain disorders. In line with these reports, health agencies have requested that all trials, both at the clinical and preclinical level, use a similar number of male and female subjects to correctly interpret the results. Despite these guidelines, many studies still tend to be unbalanced in the use of male and female subjects. In this review we consider three neurodegenerative disorders: Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and three psychiatric disorders: Depression, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, and Schizophrenia. These disorders were chosen because of their prevalence and their recognized sex-specific differences in onset, progression, and response to treatment. Alzheimer's disease and Depression demonstrate higher prevalence in females, whereas Parkinson's Disease, Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, and schizophrenia show higher prevalence in males. Results from preclinical and clinical studies examining each of these disorders revealed sex-specific differences in risk factors, diagnostic biomarkers, and treatment response and efficacy, suggesting a role for sex-specific therapies in neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric disorders. However, the qualitative analysis of the percentage of males and females enrolled in clinical trials in the last two decades shows that for most of the disorders, there is still a sex bias in the patients' enrolment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mieke DuMont
- School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | | | - Kiran Singh
- School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Evan Swan
- School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Yvonne Buttle
- School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Daniela Tropea
- Department of Psychiatry and Trinity Translational Medicine Institute (TTMI), Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland; Trinity College Institute of Neuroscience, Trinity College Dublin, Lloyd Building, Dublin 2, Dublin, Ireland; FutureNeuro, the SFI Research Centre for Chronic and Rare Neurological Diseases.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Cannarella R, Crafa A, Barbagallo F, Lundy SD, La Vignera S, Condorelli RA, Calogero AE. H19 Sperm Methylation in Male Infertility: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24087224. [PMID: 37108386 PMCID: PMC10139270 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24087224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Revised: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
This systematic review and meta-analysis summarize the difference in the methylation of the H19 gene in patients with abnormal versus normal conventional sperm parameters. It also evaluates the effects of age and sperm concentration on H19 methylation in spermatozoa using meta-regression analysis. It was performed according to the MOOSE guidelines for meta-analyses and Systematic Reviews of Observational Studies and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Protocols (PRISMA-P). The quality of the evidence reported in the studies included was assessed using the Cambridge Quality Checklists. A total of 11 articles met our inclusion criteria. Quantitative analysis showed that H19 methylation levels were significantly lower in the group of infertile patients than in fertile controls. The reduction in methylation was much more pronounced in patients with oligozoospermia (alone or associated with other sperm parameter abnormalities) and in those with recurrent pregnancy loss. Meta-regression analysis showed the results to be independent of both patient age and sperm concentration. Therefore, the H19 methylation pattern should be evaluated among couples accessing assisted reproductive techniques (ART), in order to gain prognostic information on ART outcome and offspring health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rossella Cannarella
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
- Glickman Urological & Kidney Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH 44125, USA
| | - Andrea Crafa
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Federica Barbagallo
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Scott D Lundy
- Glickman Urological & Kidney Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH 44125, USA
| | - Sandro La Vignera
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Rosita A Condorelli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Aldo E Calogero
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Tanaka A, Watanabe S. How to improve the clinical outcome of round spermatid injection (ROSI) into the oocyte: Correction of epigenetic abnormalities. Reprod Med Biol 2023; 22:e12503. [PMID: 36789269 PMCID: PMC9909386 DOI: 10.1002/rmb2.12503] [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: 09/09/2022] [Revised: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Background First successful human round spermatid injection (ROSI) was conducted by Tesarik et al. in 1996 for the sole treatment of nonobstructive azoospermic men whose most advanced spermatogenic cells were elongating round spermatids. Nine offsprings from ROSI were reported between 1996 and 2000. No successful deliveries were reported for 15 years after that. Tanaka et al. reported 90 babies born after ROSI and their follow-up studies in 2015 and 2018 showed no significant differences in comparison with those born after natural conception in terms of physical and cognitive abilities. However, clinical outcomes remain low. Method Clinical and laboratory data of successful cases in the precursor ROSI groups and those of Tanaka et al. were reviewed. Results Differences were found between the two groups in terms of identification of characteristics of round spermatid and oocyte activation. Additionally, epigenetic abnormalities were identified as underlying causes for poor ROSI results, besides correct identification of round spermatid and adequate oocyte activation. Correction of epigenetic errors could lead to optimal embryonic development. Conclusion Correction of epigenetic abnormalities has a probability to improve the clinical outcome of ROSI.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Atsushi Tanaka
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologySaint Mother ClinicKitakyushuJapan,Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyJuntendo University School of MedicineBunkyo‐kuJapan
| | - Seiji Watanabe
- Department of Anatomical ScienceHirosaki University Graduate School of MedicineAomoriJapan
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Sciorio R, Tramontano L, Rapalini E, Bellaminutti S, Bulletti FM, D'Amato A, Manna C, Palagiano A, Bulletti C, Esteves SC. Risk of genetic and epigenetic alteration in children conceived following ART: Is it time to return to nature whenever possible? Clin Genet 2023; 103:133-145. [PMID: 36109352 DOI: 10.1111/cge.14232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Revised: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Assisted reproductive technology may influence epigenetic signature as the procedures coincide with the extensive epigenetic modification occurring from fertilization to embryo implantation. However, it is still unclear to what extent ART alters the embryo epigenome. In vivo fertilization occurs in the fallopian tube, where a specific and natural environment enables the embryo's healthy development. During this dynamic period, major waves of epigenetic reprogramming, crucial for the normal fate of the embryo, take place. Over the past decade, concerns relating to the raised incidence of epigenetic anomalies and imprinting following ART have been raised by several authors. Epigenetic reprogramming is particularly susceptible to environmental conditions during the periconceptional period; therefore, unphysiological conditions, including ovarian stimulation, in vitro fertilization, embryo culture, cryopreservation of gametes and embryos, parental lifestyle, and underlying infertility, have the potential to contribute to epigenetic dysregulation independently or collectively. This review critically appraises the evidence relating to the association between ART and genetic and epigenetic modifications that may be transmitted to the offspring.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Romualdo Sciorio
- Edinburgh Assisted Conception Programme, EFREC, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Luca Tramontano
- Department of Women, Infants and Adolescents, Division of Obstetrics, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Erika Rapalini
- IVF Department, Versilia Hospital Lido di Camaiore, Lucca, Italy
| | - Serena Bellaminutti
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Ospedale Regionale di Lugano, Lugano, Switzerland
- Gynecology and Fertility Unit, Procrea Institute, Lugano, Switzerland
- Gynecology Unit, Centro Medico, Lugano, Switzerland
| | | | - Antonio D'Amato
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology Clinic, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Claudio Manna
- Biofertility IVF and Infertility Center, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Palagiano
- CFA Napoli, Italy, CFA: Centro Fecondazione Assistita Napoli, Naples, Italy
| | - Carlo Bulletti
- Ostetricia e Ginecologia, EXTRA OMNES Medicina e Salute Riproduttiva, Cattolica, Italy
| | - Sandro C Esteves
- Andrology and Human Reproduction Clinic, Campinas, Brazil
- Department of Surgery (Division of Urology), University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, Brazil
- Faculty of Health, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Ihirwe RG, Martel J, Rahimi S, Trasler J. Protective and sex-specific effects of moderate dose folic acid supplementation on the placenta following assisted reproduction in mice. FASEB J 2023; 37:e22677. [PMID: 36515682 PMCID: PMC10108070 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202201428r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Revised: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Epigenetic defects induced by assisted reproductive technologies (ART) have been suggested as a potential mechanism contributing to suboptimal placentation. Here, we hypothesize that ART perturbs DNA methylation (DNAme) and gene expression during early placenta development, leading to abnormal placental phenotypes observed at term. Since folic acid (FA) plays a crucial role in epigenetic regulation, we propose that FA supplementation can rescue ART-induced placental defects. Female mice were placed on a control diet (CD), a moderate 4-fold (FAS4) or high dose 10-fold (FAS10) FA-supplemented diet prior to ART and compared to a natural mating group. ART resulted in 41 and 28 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in E10.5 female and male placentas, respectively. Many DEGs were implicated in early placenta development and associated with DNAme changes; a number clustered at known imprinting control regions (ICR). In females, FAS4 partially corrected alterations in gene expression while FAS10 showed evidence of male-biased adverse effects. DNAme and gene expression for five genes involved in early placentation (Phlda2, EphB2, Igf2, Peg3, L3mbtl1) were followed up in placentas from normal as well as delayed and abnormal embryos. Phlda2 and Igf2 expression levels were lowest after ART in placentas of female delayed embryos. Moreover, ART concomitantly reduced DNAme at the Kcnq1ot1 ICR which regulates Phlda2 expression; FAS4 partially improved DNAme in a sex-specific manner. In conclusion, ART-associated placental DNAme and transcriptome alterations observed at mid-gestation are sex-specific; they may help explain adverse placental phenotypes detected at term and are partially corrected by maternal moderate dose FA supplementation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rita Gloria Ihirwe
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.,Department of Pharmacology & Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Josée Martel
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Sophia Rahimi
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Jacquetta Trasler
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.,Department of Pharmacology & Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.,Department of Pediatrics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.,Department of Human Genetics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Carli D, Operti M, Russo S, Cocchi G, Milani D, Leoni C, Prada E, Melis D, Falco M, Spina J, Uliana V, Sara O, Sirchia F, Tarani L, Macchiaiolo M, Cerrato F, Sparago A, Pignata L, Tannorella P, Cardaropoli S, Bartuli A, Riccio A, Ferrero GB, Mussa A. Clinical and molecular characterization of patients affected by Beckwith-Wiedemann spectrum conceived through assisted reproduction techniques. Clin Genet 2022; 102:314-323. [PMID: 35842840 PMCID: PMC9545072 DOI: 10.1111/cge.14193] [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: 06/21/2022] [Revised: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
The prevalence of Beckwith–Wiedemann spectrum (BWSp) is tenfold increased in children conceived through assisted reproductive techniques (ART). More than 90% of ART‐BWSp patients reported so far display imprinting center 2 loss‐of‐methylations (IC2‐LoM), versus 50% of naturally conceived BWSp patients. We describe a cohort of 74 ART‐BWSp patients comparing their features with a cohort of naturally conceived BWSp patients, with the ART‐BWSp patients previously described in literature, and with the general population of children born from ART. We found that the distribution of UPD(11)pat was not significantly different in ART and naturally conceived patients. We observed 68.9% of IC2‐LoM and 16.2% of mosaic UPD(11)pat in our ART cohort, that strongly differ from the figure reported in other cohorts so far. Since UPD(11)pat likely results from post‐fertilization recombination events, our findings allows to hypothesize that more complex molecular mechanisms, besides methylation disturbances, may underlie BWSp increased risk in ART pregnancies. Moreover, comparing the clinical features of ART and non‐ART BWSp patients, we found that ART‐BWSp patients might have a milder phenotype. Finally, our data show a progressive increase in the prevalence of BWSp over time, paralleling that of ART usage in the last decades.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Diana Carli
- Department of Public Health and Pediatric Sciences, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Matteo Operti
- Department of Public Health and Pediatric Sciences, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Silvia Russo
- Research Laboratory of Medical Cytogenetics and Molecular Genetics, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan, Italy
| | - Guido Cocchi
- Neonatology Unit, St. Orsola-Malpighi Polyclinic, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), University of Bologna, Via Massarenti 9, Bologna, BO, Italy
| | - Donatella Milani
- Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Chiara Leoni
- Center for Rare Diseases and Birth Defects, Department of Woman and Child Health and Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Roma, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Prada
- Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Daniela Melis
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry "Scuola Medica Salernitana", University of Salerno, Fisciano, Italy
| | - Mariateresa Falco
- Pediatric Unit, San Giovanni di Dio e Ruggi D'Aragona University Hospital, Salerno, Italy
| | - Jennifer Spina
- Department of Public Health and Pediatric Sciences, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Vera Uliana
- Medical Genetics Unit, University Hospital of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Osimani Sara
- Department of Pediatrics, Scientific Institute San Raffaele, Milano, Italy
| | - Fabio Sirchia
- Unit of Medical Genetics, Department of Diagnostic Medicine, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Italy.,Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Luigi Tarani
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical Faculty, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Italy
| | - Marina Macchiaiolo
- Rare Diseases and Medical Genetics, Department of Pediatric Medicine, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS
| | - Flavia Cerrato
- Department of Environmental Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (DiSTABiF), Università degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
| | - Angela Sparago
- Department of Environmental Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (DiSTABiF), Università degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
| | - Laura Pignata
- Department of Environmental Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (DiSTABiF), Università degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
| | - Pierpaola Tannorella
- Research Laboratory of Medical Cytogenetics and Molecular Genetics, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan, Italy
| | - Simona Cardaropoli
- Department of Public Health and Pediatric Sciences, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Andrea Bartuli
- Rare Diseases and Medical Genetics, Department of Pediatric Medicine, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS
| | - Andrea Riccio
- Department of Environmental Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (DiSTABiF), Università degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy.,Institute of Genetics and Biophysics A. Buzzati-Traverso, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Napoli, Italy
| | | | - Alessandro Mussa
- Department of Public Health and Pediatric Sciences, University of Torino, Torino, Italy.,Pediatric Clinical Genetics Unit, Regina Margherita Childrens Hospital, Città della Salute e della Scienza di Torino, Torino, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Dvoran M, Nemcova L, Kalous J. An Interplay between Epigenetics and Translation in Oocyte Maturation and Embryo Development: Assisted Reproduction Perspective. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10071689. [PMID: 35884994 PMCID: PMC9313063 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10071689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2022] [Revised: 06/25/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Germ cell quality is a key prerequisite for successful fertilization and early embryo development. The quality is determined by the fine regulation of transcriptomic and proteomic profiles, which are prone to alteration by assisted reproduction technology (ART)-introduced in vitro methods. Gaining evidence shows the ART can influence preset epigenetic modifications within cultured oocytes or early embryos and affect their developmental competency. The aim of this review is to describe ART-determined epigenetic changes related to the oogenesis, early embryogenesis, and further in utero development. We confront the latest epigenetic, related epitranscriptomic, and translational regulation findings with the processes of meiotic maturation, fertilization, and early embryogenesis that impact the developmental competency and embryo quality. Post-ART embryo transfer, in utero implantation, and development (placentation, fetal development) are influenced by environmental and lifestyle factors. The review is emphasizing their epigenetic and ART contribution to fetal development. An epigenetic parallel among mouse, porcine, and bovine animal models and human ART is drawn to illustrate possible future mechanisms of infertility management as well as increase the awareness of the underlying mechanisms governing oocyte and embryo developmental complexity under ART conditions.
Collapse
|