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Pasquariello R, Pennarossa G, Arcuri S, Fernandez-Fuertes B, Lonergan P, Brevini TAL, Gandolfi F. Sperm fertilizing ability in vitro influences bovine blastocyst miRNA content. Theriogenology 2024; 222:1-9. [PMID: 38581760 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2024.03.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2024] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/08/2024]
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small highly conserved non-coding RNA molecules that orchestrate a wide range of biological processes through post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression. During development, miRNAs play a key role in driving embryo patterning and morphogenesis in a specific and stage-dependent manner. Here, we investigated whether sperm from bulls with different fertilizing ability in vitro influence blastocyst quality and miRNA content. Results demonstrate that blastocysts obtained using sperm from high fertility sires (H group) display significantly greater cleavage and blastocyst development as well as greater transcript abundance in blastocysts for the developmental competence markers CDX2, KRT8, NANOG, OCT4, PLAC8, PTGS2, SOX17, and SOX2, compared to blastocysts generated using sperm from low fertility sires (L group). In parallel, high throughput deep sequencing and differential expression studies revealed that H blastocysts exhibit a greater miRNA content compared to L blastocysts, with hsa-miR-4755-5p and hsa-miR-548d-3p uniquely detected in the H group, and greater abundance of hsa-miR-1225-3p in the H group. Gene ontology (GO) and KEGG pathway analyses indicated that the 3 differentially expressed miRNAs identified are involved in the regulation of many biological mechanisms with a key role in aspects of early embryo development, including transcriptional regulation, cellular biosynthesis, nucleic acid metabolism, cellular differentiation, apoptosis, cytoskeleton remodeling, cell-to-cell interactions, and endocytosis. Overall, our results indicate that sperm fertilizing ability influences blastocyst developmental ability and miRNA content. In addition, we demonstrate an association between blastocyst quality and miRNA content, thus suggesting the possibility to score miRNA expression as biomarkers for improved routine embryo selection technologies to support assisted reproductive efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rolando Pasquariello
- Department of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences - Production, Landscape, Agroenergy, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy.
| | - Georgia Pennarossa
- Laboratory of Biomedical Embryology and Tissue Engineering, Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Center for Stem Cell Research, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Sharon Arcuri
- Laboratory of Biomedical Embryology and Tissue Engineering, Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Center for Stem Cell Research, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Beatriz Fernandez-Fuertes
- Animal Reproduction Department, National Institute for Agricultural and Food Research and Technology (INIA), Madrid, Spain
| | - Patrick Lonergan
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Tiziana A L Brevini
- Laboratory of Biomedical Embryology and Tissue Engineering, Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Center for Stem Cell Research, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Fulvio Gandolfi
- Department of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences - Production, Landscape, Agroenergy, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
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2
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Nadri P, Nadri T, Gholami D, Zahmatkesh A, Hosseini Ghaffari M, Savvulidi Vargova K, Georgijevic Savvulidi F, LaMarre J. Role of miRNAs in assisted reproductive technology. Gene 2024; 927:148703. [PMID: 38885817 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2024.148703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Revised: 06/11/2024] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
Cellular proteins and the mRNAs that encode them are key factors in oocyte and sperm development, and the mechanisms that regulate their translation and degradation play an important role during early embryogenesis. There is abundant evidence that expression of microRNAs (miRNAs) is crucial for embryo development and are highly involved in regulating translation during oocyte and early embryo development. MiRNAs are a group of short (18-24 nucleotides) non-coding RNA molecules that regulate post-transcriptional gene silencing. The miRNAs are secreted outside the cell by embryos during preimplantation embryo development. Understanding regulatory mechanisms involving miRNAs during gametogenesis and embryogenesis will provide insights into molecular pathways active during gamete formation and early embryo development. This review summarizes recent findings regarding multiple roles of miRNAs in molecular signaling, plus their transport during gametogenesis and embryo preimplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parisa Nadri
- Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture, Isfahan University of Technology, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Touba Nadri
- Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran; Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture, Tehran University, Karaj, Iran.
| | - Dariush Gholami
- Department of Microbial Biotechniligy, Faculty of Biotechnology, Amol University of Special Modern Technologies, Amol, Iran
| | - Azadeh Zahmatkesh
- Department of Anaerobic Vaccine Research and Production, Razi Vaccine and Serum Research Institute (RVSRI), Agricultural Research, Education and Extension Organization (AREEO), Karaj, Iran
| | | | - Karin Savvulidi Vargova
- Institute of Pathological Physiology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Filipp Georgijevic Savvulidi
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University, Prague, Kamýcká, Czech Republic
| | - Jonathan LaMarre
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Canada
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3
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Xu J, Xiao M, Huang Z, Chen Z, Lin J. UBE2R2-AS1, as a prognostic marker of gastric cancer, promotes the malignant phenotype of gastric cancer cells. Histol Histopathol 2024; 39:739-745. [PMID: 38009743 DOI: 10.14670/hh-18-677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES This study aimed to unveil the potential of UBE2R2-AS1 dysregulation in gastric cancer. In addition, its biological function was assessed. MATERIALS AND METHODS UBE2R2-AS1 expression was predicted in the ENCORI database. Paired gastric cancer and noncancerous tissues were collected. UBE2R2-AS1 expression was confirmed using RT-qPCR in our patient set. The association of UBE2R2-AS1 with the clinical data of patients was analyzed. Evaluation of the prognostic value of UBE2R2-AS1 was via Kaplan-Meier and Univariate/Multivariate Cox analyses. The effect of UBE2R2-AS1 on the cancer cell malignant phenotype was investigated. RESULTS Gastric cancer tissues and cells significantly overexpressed UBE2R2-AS1. UBE2R2-AS1 was significantly more abundant in unfavorable clinical pathology, including advanced TNM stage and lymph node metastasis. High expression of UBE2R2-AS1 predicted a poor prognosis with a hazard ratio (HR) of 3.041 and 2.805 after Univariate and Multivariate Cox analysis, respectively. UBE2R2-AS1 can act as a sponge for miR-302b-5p to promote cell proliferation, migration, and invasion of gastric cancer. CONCLUSION The expression of UBE2R2-AS1 allowed the prognostic stratification of gastric cancer patients. UBE2R2-AS1 may accelerate the progression of gastric cancer via miR-302b-5p.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Xu
- Department of Gastrointestinal and Esophageal Surgery, the 2nd Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, Fujian, PR China
| | - Meiqin Xiao
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, the First Hospital of Quanzhou, Quanzhou, Fujian, PR China
| | - Zhijun Huang
- Department of Gastrointestinal and Esophageal Surgery, the 2nd Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, Fujian, PR China
| | - Zhiyao Chen
- Department of Gastrointestinal and Esophageal Surgery, the 2nd Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, Fujian, PR China
| | - Jianqing Lin
- Department of Oncology Surgery, the 2nd Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, Fujian, PR China.
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Akyüz B, Sohel MMH, Konca Y, Arslan K, Gürbulak K, Abay M, Kaliber M, White SN, Cinar MU. Effects of Low and High Maternal Protein Intake on Fetal Skeletal Muscle miRNAome in Sheep. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:1594. [PMID: 38891641 PMCID: PMC11171157 DOI: 10.3390/ani14111594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2024] [Revised: 05/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Prenatal maternal feeding plays an important role in fetal development and has the potential to induce long-lasting epigenetic modifications. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are non-coding, single-stranded RNAs that serve as one epigenetic mechanism. Though miRNAs have crucial roles in fetal programming, growth, and development, there is limited data regarding the maternal diet and miRNA expression in sheep. Therefore, we analyzed high and low maternal dietary protein for miRNA expression in fetal longissimus dorsi. Pregnant ewes were fed an isoenergetic high-protein (HP, 160-270 g/day), low-protein (LP, 73-112 g/day), or standard-protein diet (SP, 119-198 g/day) during pregnancy. miRNA expression profiles were evaluated using the Affymetrix GeneChip miRNA 4.0 Array. Twelve up-regulated, differentially expressed miRNAs (DE miRNAs) were identified which are targeting 65 genes. The oar-3957-5p miRNA was highly up-regulated in the LP and SP compared to the HP. Previous transcriptome analysis identified that integrin and non-receptor protein tyrosine phosphatase genes targeted by miRNAs were detected in the current experiment. A total of 28 GO terms and 10 pathway-based gene sets were significantly (padj < 0.05) enriched in the target genes. Most genes targeted by the identified miRNAs are involved in immune and muscle disease pathways. Our study demonstrated that dietary protein intake during pregnancy affected fetal skeletal muscle epigenetics via miRNA expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bilal Akyüz
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Erciyes University, Kayseri 38039, Türkiye; (B.A.); (M.M.H.S.); (K.A.)
| | - Md Mahmodul Hasan Sohel
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Erciyes University, Kayseri 38039, Türkiye; (B.A.); (M.M.H.S.); (K.A.)
- Genome and Stem Cell Centre, Erciyes University, Kayseri 38039, Türkiye
| | - Yusuf Konca
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Erciyes University, Kayseri 38039, Türkiye; (Y.K.); (M.K.)
| | - Korhan Arslan
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Erciyes University, Kayseri 38039, Türkiye; (B.A.); (M.M.H.S.); (K.A.)
| | - Kutlay Gürbulak
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Erciyes University, Kayseri 38039, Türkiye; (K.G.); (M.A.)
| | - Murat Abay
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Erciyes University, Kayseri 38039, Türkiye; (K.G.); (M.A.)
| | - Mahmut Kaliber
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Erciyes University, Kayseri 38039, Türkiye; (Y.K.); (M.K.)
| | - Stephen N. White
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology & Pathology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164, USA;
| | - Mehmet Ulas Cinar
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Erciyes University, Kayseri 38039, Türkiye; (Y.K.); (M.K.)
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology & Pathology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164, USA;
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5
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Spanner EA, de Graaf SP, Rickard JP. Factors affecting the success of laparoscopic artificial insemination in sheep. Anim Reprod Sci 2024; 264:107453. [PMID: 38547814 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2024.107453] [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: 10/09/2023] [Revised: 01/06/2024] [Accepted: 03/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
Successful artificial breeding underpins rapid genetic and production gains in animal agriculture. In sheep, artificial insemination with frozen semen is performed via intrauterine laparoscopy as frozen-thawed spermatozoa do not traverse the cervix in sufficient numbers for high fertility and transcervical insemination is anatomically impossible in most ewes. Historically, laparoscopic artificial insemination has always been considered reasonably successful, but recent anecdotal reports of poor fertility place it at risk of warning adoption. Understanding the male, female and environmental factors that influence the fertility of sheep is warranted if the success of artificial insemination is to be improved and genetic progress maximised for the sheep industry. This review details the current practice of laparoscopic AI in sheep. It explores the effects of semen quantity and quality, the ewe, her preparation, and environmental conditions, on the fertility obtained following laparoscopic artificial insemination.
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Affiliation(s)
- E A Spanner
- The University of Sydney, Faculty of Science, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, NSW 2006, Australia.
| | - S P de Graaf
- The University of Sydney, Faculty of Science, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - J P Rickard
- The University of Sydney, Faculty of Science, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, NSW 2006, Australia
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Salilew-Wondim D, Hoelker M, Held-Hoelker E, Rings F, Tholen E, Große-Brinkhaus C, Shellander K, Blaschka C, Besenfelder U, Havlicek V, Tesfaye D. Sexual dimorphic miRNA-mediated response of bovine elongated embryos to the maternal microenvironment. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0298835. [PMID: 38422042 PMCID: PMC10903816 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0298835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
A skewed male-to-female ratio in cattle is believed to be due to the biased embryo losses during pregnancy. The changes in biochemical secretion such as miRNAs by the embryo due to altered maternal environment could cause a sex biased selective implantation resulting in a skewed male to female ratio at birth. Nevertheless, it is still not clear whether the male and female embryos could modify their miRNA expression patterns differently in response to altered physiological developmental conditions. Therefore, this study was focused on identifying sex specific miRNA expression patterns induced in the embryo during the elongation period in response to the maternal environment. For this, in vitro produced day female and male embryos were transferred to Holsteins Frisian cows and heifers. The elongated female and male embryos were then recovered at day 13 of the gestation period. Total RNA including the miRNAs was isolated from each group of elongated embryo samples were subjected to the next generation miRNA sequencing. Sequence alignment, identification and quantification of miRNAs were done using the miRDeep2 software package and differential miRNA expression analyses were performed using the edgeR bioconductor package. The recovery rate of viable elongating embryos at day 13 of the gestation period was 26.6%. In cows, 2.8 more viable elongating male embryos were recovered than female embryos, while in heifers the sex ratio of the recovered elongating embryos was close to one (1.05). The miRNA analysis showed that 254 miRNAs were detected in both male and female elongated embryos developed either in cows or heifers, of which 14 miRNAs including bta-miR-10b, bta-miR-148a, bta-miR-26a, and bta-miR-30d were highly expressed. Moreover, the expression level of 32 miRNAs including bta-let-7c, bta-let-7b, bta-let-7g, bta-let-7d and bta-let-7e was significantly different between the male and female embryos developed in cows, but the expression level of only 4 miRNAs (bta-miR-10, bta-mR-100, bta-miR-155 and bta-miR-6119-5p) was different between the male and female embryos that were developed in heifers. Furthermore, 19 miRNAs including those involved in cellular energy homeostasis pathways were differentially expressed between the male embryos developed in cows and heifers, but no significantly differentially expressed miRNAs were detected between the female embryos of cows and heifers. Thus, this study revealed that the sex ratio skewed towards males in embryos developed in cows was accompanied by increased embryonic sexual dimorphic miRNA expression divergence in embryos developed in cows compared to those developed in heifers. Moreover, male embryos are more sensitive to respond to the maternal reproductive microenvironment by modulating their miRNA expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dessie Salilew-Wondim
- Department of Animal Science, Biotechnology and Reproduction of Farm Animals, University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
- Institute of Animal Sciences, Animal Breeding, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Michael Hoelker
- Department of Animal Science, Biotechnology and Reproduction of Farm Animals, University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Eva Held-Hoelker
- Institute of Animal Sciences, Animal Breeding, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Franca Rings
- Institute of Animal Sciences, Animal Breeding, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Ernst Tholen
- Institute of Animal Sciences, Animal Breeding, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | | | - Karl Shellander
- Institute of Animal Sciences, Animal Breeding, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Carina Blaschka
- Department of Animal Science, Biotechnology and Reproduction of Farm Animals, University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Urban Besenfelder
- Institute of Animal Breeding and Genetics, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Vita Havlicek
- Institute of Animal Breeding and Genetics, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Dawit Tesfaye
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Animal Reproduction and Biotechnology Laboratory, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, United States of America
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7
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Miyashita N, Akagi S, Somfai T, Hirao Y. Serum-free spontaneously immortalized bovine oviduct epithelial cell conditioned medium promotes the early development of bovine in vitro fertilized embryos. J Reprod Dev 2024; 70:42-48. [PMID: 38246613 PMCID: PMC10902639 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2023-031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Embryonic transfer of bovine blastocysts produced using in vitro fertilization (IVF) is widely used, although the challenge of compromised conception rates remains. Using bovine oviduct epithelial cells (BOEC) to improve embryo culture conditions has attracted attention, particularly since the recent discovery of extracellular vesicles from BOEC. The selection of embryos for transfer has also been the subject of various studies, and a set of evaluation criteria to predict pregnancy success has been suggested, in which the embryos are judged by their kinetics and morphology at the early stages. In the present study, we established a spontaneously immortalized BOEC line (SI-BOEC) and examined the effects of conditioned medium on IVF embryos, focusing on the results of the recommended criteria. A modified KSOM (mKSOM) was used to prepare conditioned media. Presumptive zygotes were cultured in mKSOM (control), SI-BOEC-conditioned medium, mKSOM supplemented with sediment (pellet) collected after the ultracentrifugation of the conditioned medium (mKSOM/sediment), and the supernatant. A significantly higher percentage of embryos satisfied the recommended criteria when grown in the conditioned medium than in the mKSOM. A higher proportion of embryos developed into blastocysts after achieving the four criteria. A similar tendency was observed when grown in mKSOM/sediment compared to mKSOM; however, this was not observed in the supernatant. Vesicles with a size similar to that of exosomes were observed in the sediment. In conclusion, the culture medium conditioned by SI-BOEC promoted the production of bovine blastocysts that satisfied the four evaluation criteria recommended for embryo selection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Norikazu Miyashita
- Division of Dairy Cattle Feeding and Breeding Research, Institute of Livestock and Grassland Science, NARO, Ibaraki 305-0901, Japan
| | - Satoshi Akagi
- Division of Dairy Cattle Feeding and Breeding Research, Institute of Livestock and Grassland Science, NARO, Ibaraki 305-0901, Japan
| | - Tamas Somfai
- Division of Biomaterial Sciences, Institute of Agrobiological Sciences, NARO, Ibaraki 305-8518, Japan
| | - Yuji Hirao
- Division of Dairy Cattle Feeding and Breeding Research, Institute of Livestock and Grassland Science, NARO, Ibaraki 305-0901, Japan
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8
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Dehghan Z, Rezaee D, Noori E, Pilehchi T, Saberi F, Taheri Z, Darya G, Mehdinejadiani S. Exosomes as modulators of embryo implantation. Mol Biol Rep 2024; 51:284. [PMID: 38324178 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-024-09282-2] [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: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
Exosomes, known as extracellular vehicles (EVs), are found in biological fluids. They have the capability to carry and transfer signaling molecules, such as nucleic acids and proteins, facilitating intercellular communication and regulating the gene expression profile in target cells. EVs have the potential to be used as biomarkers in diagnosis, prognosis and also as feasible therapeutic targets. The available evidence suggests that exosomes play critical roles in the reproductive system, particularly during implantation, which is widely recognized as a crucial step in early pregnancy. A proper molecular dialogue between a high-quality embryo and a receptive endometrium is essential for the establishment of a normal pregnancy. This review focuses on the key role of exosomes originated from various sources, including the embryo, seminal fluid, and uterus fluid, based on the available evidence. It explores their potential applications as a novel approach in assisted reproductive technologies (ART).
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeinab Dehghan
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Delsuz Rezaee
- School of Allied Medical Sciences, Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam, Iran
| | - Effat Noori
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Medicine, Shahed University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Tayyebeh Pilehchi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Student Research Committee, Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Saberi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Student Research Committee, Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Taheri
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Pavia University, Pavia, Italy
| | - Gholamhossein Darya
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Shayesteh Mehdinejadiani
- Department of Reproductive Biology, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
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9
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Chen MJ, Hsu A, Lin PY, Chen YL, Wu KW, Chen KC, Wang T, Yi YC, Kung HF, Chang JC, Yang WJ, Lu F, Guu HF, Chen YF, Chuan ST, Chen LY, Chen CH, Yang PE, Huang JYJ. Development of a Predictive Model for Optimization of Embryo Transfer Timing Using Blood-Based microRNA Expression Profile. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 25:76. [PMID: 38203247 PMCID: PMC10779357 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25010076] [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: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) can regulate the expression of genes involved in the establishment of the window of implantation (WOI) in the endometrium. Recent studies indicated that cell-free miRNAs in uterine fluid and blood samples could act as alternative and non-invasive sample types for endometrial receptivity analysis. In this study, we attempt to systematically evaluate whether the expression levels of cell-free microRNAs in blood samples could be used as non-invasive biomarkers for assessing endometrial receptivity status. We profiled the miRNA expression levels of 111 blood samples using next-generation sequencing to establish a predictive model for the assessment of endometrial receptivity status. This model was validated with an independent dataset (n = 73). The overall accuracy is 95.9%. Specifically, we achieved accuracies of 95.9%, 95.9%, and 100.0% for the pre-receptive group, the receptive group, and the post-respective group, respectively. Additionally, we identified a set of differentially expressed miRNAs between different endometrial receptivity statuses using the following criteria: p-value < 0.05 and fold change greater than 1.5 or less than -1.5. In conclusion, the expression levels of cell-free miRNAs in blood samples can be utilized in a non-invasive manner to distinguish different endometrial receptivity statuses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming-Jer Chen
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics Gynecology & Women’s Health, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung 40764, Taiwan; (M.-J.C.); (Y.-C.Y.); (H.-F.K.); (J.-C.C.); (H.-F.G.); (Y.-F.C.); (S.-T.C.); (L.-Y.C.)
| | - An Hsu
- Inti Labs, Hsinchu 30261, Taiwan; (A.H.); (P.-Y.L.); (Y.-L.C.); (K.-W.W.); (K.-C.C.); (T.W.)
| | - Pei-Yi Lin
- Inti Labs, Hsinchu 30261, Taiwan; (A.H.); (P.-Y.L.); (Y.-L.C.); (K.-W.W.); (K.-C.C.); (T.W.)
| | - Yu-Ling Chen
- Inti Labs, Hsinchu 30261, Taiwan; (A.H.); (P.-Y.L.); (Y.-L.C.); (K.-W.W.); (K.-C.C.); (T.W.)
| | - Ko-Wen Wu
- Inti Labs, Hsinchu 30261, Taiwan; (A.H.); (P.-Y.L.); (Y.-L.C.); (K.-W.W.); (K.-C.C.); (T.W.)
| | - Kuan-Chun Chen
- Inti Labs, Hsinchu 30261, Taiwan; (A.H.); (P.-Y.L.); (Y.-L.C.); (K.-W.W.); (K.-C.C.); (T.W.)
| | - Tiffany Wang
- Inti Labs, Hsinchu 30261, Taiwan; (A.H.); (P.-Y.L.); (Y.-L.C.); (K.-W.W.); (K.-C.C.); (T.W.)
| | - Yu-Chiao Yi
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics Gynecology & Women’s Health, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung 40764, Taiwan; (M.-J.C.); (Y.-C.Y.); (H.-F.K.); (J.-C.C.); (H.-F.G.); (Y.-F.C.); (S.-T.C.); (L.-Y.C.)
| | - Hsiao-Fan Kung
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics Gynecology & Women’s Health, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung 40764, Taiwan; (M.-J.C.); (Y.-C.Y.); (H.-F.K.); (J.-C.C.); (H.-F.G.); (Y.-F.C.); (S.-T.C.); (L.-Y.C.)
| | - Jui-Chun Chang
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics Gynecology & Women’s Health, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung 40764, Taiwan; (M.-J.C.); (Y.-C.Y.); (H.-F.K.); (J.-C.C.); (H.-F.G.); (Y.-F.C.); (S.-T.C.); (L.-Y.C.)
| | - Wen-Jui Yang
- Taiwan IVF Group Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Hsinchu 30274, Taiwan; (W.-J.Y.); (F.L.); (C.-H.C.)
| | - Farn Lu
- Taiwan IVF Group Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Hsinchu 30274, Taiwan; (W.-J.Y.); (F.L.); (C.-H.C.)
| | - Hwa-Fen Guu
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics Gynecology & Women’s Health, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung 40764, Taiwan; (M.-J.C.); (Y.-C.Y.); (H.-F.K.); (J.-C.C.); (H.-F.G.); (Y.-F.C.); (S.-T.C.); (L.-Y.C.)
| | - Ya-Fang Chen
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics Gynecology & Women’s Health, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung 40764, Taiwan; (M.-J.C.); (Y.-C.Y.); (H.-F.K.); (J.-C.C.); (H.-F.G.); (Y.-F.C.); (S.-T.C.); (L.-Y.C.)
| | - Shih-Ting Chuan
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics Gynecology & Women’s Health, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung 40764, Taiwan; (M.-J.C.); (Y.-C.Y.); (H.-F.K.); (J.-C.C.); (H.-F.G.); (Y.-F.C.); (S.-T.C.); (L.-Y.C.)
| | - Li-Yu Chen
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics Gynecology & Women’s Health, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung 40764, Taiwan; (M.-J.C.); (Y.-C.Y.); (H.-F.K.); (J.-C.C.); (H.-F.G.); (Y.-F.C.); (S.-T.C.); (L.-Y.C.)
| | - Ching-Hung Chen
- Taiwan IVF Group Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Hsinchu 30274, Taiwan; (W.-J.Y.); (F.L.); (C.-H.C.)
| | - Pok Eric Yang
- Inti Labs, Hsinchu 30261, Taiwan; (A.H.); (P.-Y.L.); (Y.-L.C.); (K.-W.W.); (K.-C.C.); (T.W.)
| | - Jack Yu-Jen Huang
- Taiwan IVF Group Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Hsinchu 30274, Taiwan; (W.-J.Y.); (F.L.); (C.-H.C.)
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
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10
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Zhang S, Shi Y, Dong P. USP8 targeted by Mir-874-3p promotes trophoblastic cell invasion by stabilizing the expression of ENaC on trophoblast membrane. Hum Immunol 2023; 84:618-630. [PMID: 37741774 DOI: 10.1016/j.humimm.2023.09.001] [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: 08/04/2022] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/25/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the role of ubiquitin-specific peptidase 8 (USP8) in human trophoblast cells and its molecular mechanism. Based on the GSE30186 dataset, USP8 was identified as a downregulated gene in pre-eclampsia (PE). Analysis of clinical samples also revealed that USP8 expression at both the mRNA and protein levels in placental tissue from patients with PE was significantly lower than that from healthy pregnant women. Plate clone formation, scratch-wound healing, Transwell, tubule formation, and western blot assays collectively revealed that USP8 overexpression promoted the proliferation, migration, invasion, and pro-angiogenesis function of trophoblast cells, while USP8 knockdown induced the opposite effects. Bioinformatics analysis and luciferase reporter assay results indicated that the 3' untranslated region of USP8 was targeted by miR-874-3p. USP8 expression in the placental tissue of patients with PE was significantly lower than that of healthy pregnant women. USP8 actively regulated the growth and invasion of human trophoblast cells and stabilized the epithelial sodium channel (ENaC) on the cell membrane. MiR-874 targeted USP8 in the trophoblast cells and upregulation of miR-874-3p resulted in a decrease in the proliferation, migration, invasion, and pro-angiogenesis ability of trophoblast cells. These results indicate that USP8 can reverse the above mentioned negative effects of miR-874-3p on trophoblast cells. USP8 targeted by miR-874-3p facilitates the invasion of trophoblastic cells by stabilizing the expression of the ENaC, which may be a possible therapeutic target for PE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suqin Zhang
- Department of Maternity, Yantaishan Hospital, Yantai, Shandong, China.
| | - Yanmei Shi
- Department of Maternity, Yantaishan Hospital, Yantai, Shandong, China.
| | - Pingping Dong
- Department of Maternity, Yantaishan Hospital, Yantai, Shandong, China.
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11
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Besenfelder U, Havlicek V. The interaction between the environment and embryo development in assisted reproduction. Anim Reprod 2023; 20:e20230034. [PMID: 37700910 PMCID: PMC10494886 DOI: 10.1590/1984-3143-ar2023-0034] [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: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023] Open
Abstract
It can be assumed that the natural processes of selection and developmental condition in the animal provide the best prerequisites for embryogenesis resulting in pregnancy and subsequent birth of a healthy neonate. In contrast, circumventing the natural selection mechanisms and all developmental conditions in a healthy animal harbors the risk of counteracting, preventing or reducing the formation of embryos or substantially restricting their genesis. Considering these facts, it seems to be obvious that assisted reproductive techniques focusing on early embryonic stages serve an expanded and unselected germ cell pool of oocytes and sperm cells, and include the culture of embryos outside their natural habitat during and after fertilization for manipulation and diagnostic purposes, and for storage. A significant influence on the early embryonic development is seen in the extracorporeal culture of bovine embryos (in vitro) or stress on the animal organism (in vivo). The in vitro production per se and metabolic as well as endocrine changes in the natural environment of embryos represent adequate models and serve for a better understanding. The purpose of this review is to give a brief presentation of recent techniques aimed at focusing more on the complex processes in the Fallopian tube to contrast in vivo and in vitro prerequisites and abnormalities in early embryonic development and serve to identify potential new ways to make the use of ARTs more feasible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Urban Besenfelder
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Animal Breeding and Genetics, Vienna, Austria
| | - Vitezslav Havlicek
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Animal Breeding and Genetics, Vienna, Austria
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12
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Azizi E, Mofarahe ZS, Naji M. MicroRNAs, small regulatory elements with significant effects on human implantation: a review. J Assist Reprod Genet 2023; 40:697-717. [PMID: 36723761 PMCID: PMC10224887 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-023-02735-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2022] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Embryo implantation is a critical process for achieving a successful pregnancy and live birth. The proper implantation must have a synchronized interaction between blastocyst and a receptive endometrium. Many genes are involved in the modulation of precise molecular events during implantation. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have been extensively reported as gene regulatory molecules on post-transcriptional levels involved in various biological processes such as gametogenesis, embryogenesis, and the quality of sperm, oocyte, and embryos. A plethora of evidence has demonstrated critical roles for miRNAs in regulating genes involved in the implantation process; hence, dysregulation of miRNAs could be associated with significant impairments in implantation, such as recurrent implantation failure. In addition to the indispensable role of miRNAs in the intracellular control of gene expression, they can also be secreted into extracellular fluid and circulation. Therefore, miRNAs in body fluids and blood may be exploited as non-invasive diagnostic biomarkers for different pathological and physiological conditions. Recently, several studies have focused on the discovery of miRNAs function in the implantation process by appraising miRNAs and their target genes in human embryos, endometrial tissue, and cell culture models. Moreover, it was revealed that there could be a significant association between endometrial receptivity or implantation status and the expression of miRNAs in human body fluids, reinforcing their role as non-invasive biomarkers. In the current work, we reviewed the studies concerning the role of intracellular and extracellular miRNAs in human implantation and the influence of their dysregulation on implantation disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elham Azizi
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Shams Mofarahe
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Naji
- Urology and Nephrology Research Center (UNRC), Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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13
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Non-Coding RNAs as Biomarkers for Embryo Quality and Pregnancy Outcomes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24065751. [PMID: 36982824 PMCID: PMC10052053 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24065751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite advances in in vitro fertilization (IVF), there is still a lack of non-invasive and reliable biomarkers for selecting embryos with the highest developmental and implantation potential. Recently, small non-coding RNAs (sncRNAs) have been identified in biological fluids, and extracellular sncRNAs are explored as diagnostic biomarkers in the prediction of IVF outcomes. To determine the predictive role of sncRNAs in embryo quality and IVF outcomes, a systematic review and meta-analysis was performed. Articles were retrieved from PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science from 1990 to 31 July 2022. Eighteen studies that met the selection criteria were analyzed. In total, 22 and 47 different sncRNAs were found to be dysregulated in follicular fluid (FF) and embryo spent culture medium (SCM), respectively. MiR-663b, miR-454 and miR-320a in FF and miR-20a in SCM showed consistent dysregulation in two different studies. The meta-analysis indicated the potential predictive performance of sncRNAs as non-invasive biomarkers, with a pooled area under curve (AUC) value of 0.81 (95% CI 0.78, 0.844), a sensitivity of 0.79 (95% CI 0.72, 0.85), a specificity of 0.67 (95% CI 0.52, 0.79) and a diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) of 8 (95% CI 5, 12). Significant heterogeneity was identified among studies in sensitivity (I2 = 46.11%) and specificity (I2 = 89.73%). This study demonstrates that sncRNAs may distinguish embryos with higher developmental and implantation potentials. They can be promising non-invasive biomarkers for embryo selection in ART. However, the significant heterogeneity among studies highlights the demand for prospective multicenter studies with optimized methods and adequate sample sizes in the future.
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14
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Characterization of Maternal Circulating MicroRNAs in Obese Pregnancies and Gestational Diabetes Mellitus. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:antiox12020515. [PMID: 36830073 PMCID: PMC9952647 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12020515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Maternal obesity (MO) is expanding worldwide, contributing to the onset of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM). MO and GDM are associated with adverse maternal and foetal outcomes, with short- and long-term complications. Growing evidence suggests that MO and GDM are characterized by epigenetic alterations contributing to the pathogenesis of metabolic diseases. In this pilot study, plasma microRNAs (miRNAs) of obese pregnant women with/without GDM were profiled at delivery. Nineteen women with spontaneous singleton pregnancies delivering by elective Caesarean section were enrolled: seven normal-weight (NW), six obese without comorbidities (OB/GDM(-)), and six obese with GDM (OB/GDM(+)). miRNA profiling with miRCURY LNA PCR Panel allowed the analysis of the 179 most expressed circulating miRNAs in humans. Data acquisition and statistics (GeneGlobe and SPSS software) and Pathway Enrichment Analysis (PEA) were performed. Data analysis highlighted patterns of significantly differentially expressed miRNAs between groups: OB/GDM(-) vs. NW: n = 4 miRNAs, OB/GDM(+) vs. NW: n = 1, and OB/GDM(+) vs. OB/GDM(-): n = 14. For each comparison, PEA revealed pathways associated with oxidative stress and inflammation, as well as with nutrients and hormones metabolism. Indeed, miRNAs analysis may help to shed light on the complex epigenetic network regulating metabolic pathways in both the mother and the foeto-placental unit. Future investigations are needed to deepen the pregnancy epigenetic landscape in MO and GDM.
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15
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Lyu S, Zhai Y, Zhu X, Shi Q, Chen F, Zhang G, Zhang Z, Wang E. Bta-miR-200b promotes endometrial epithelial cell apoptosis by targeting MYB in cattle. Theriogenology 2023; 195:77-84. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2022.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2022] [Revised: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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16
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Zhai Y, Shi Q, Chu Q, Chen F, Feng Y, Zhang Z, Qi X, Arends D, Brockmann GA, Wang E, Lyu S. miRNA profiling in intrauterine exosomes of pregnant cattle on day 7. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:1078394. [PMID: 36605764 PMCID: PMC9810022 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.1078394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Intrauterine exosomes have been identified to be involved in the embryo development and implantation. The aim of this study was to explore the role of miRNAs in intrauterine exosomes in bovine pregnancy. Intrauterine exosomes were collected from uterine flushing fluids of three donor and three recipient Xianan cows 7 days after fertilization. Intrauterine exosomes miRNAs were extracted and the exosomal miRNAs expression levels were analyzed. Sixty miRNAs differed significantly in their amounts between donors and recipients (p-value < 0.05, |log2(FoldChange)| > 1). Twenty-two miRNAs were upregulated and 38 downregulated in the group of donor cows. The bta-miR-184 was the most significant (P Benjamini-Hochberg < 0.001). A total of 9,775 target genes were predicted using the 60 miRNAs. GO and KEGG analysis showed that the target genes were enriched in several biological processes or pathways associated with embryo implantation and endometrial development, such as cell adhesion, cell junction, focal adhesion, and Rap1 signaling pathway. Our findings suggest that, in cattle early pregnancy stage, these differently expressed miRNAs in intrauterine exosomes involved in embryo implantation and endometrial development, which may exert a significant effect and influence the uterine microenvironment for embryo implantation. These results could provide reference for screening and exploring the intrauterine exosomal miRNA affecting embryo implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaying Zhai
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Science, Henan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Zhengzhou, Henan, China,College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Qiaoting Shi
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Science, Henan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Qiuxia Chu
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Science, Henan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Fuying Chen
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Science, Henan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Yajie Feng
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Science, Henan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Zijing Zhang
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Science, Henan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Xinglei Qi
- Center of Animal Husbandry Technical Service in Biyang, Zhumadian, China
| | - Danny Arends
- Department of Applied Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Gudrun A. Brockmann
- Albrecht Daniel Thaer-Institute of Agricultural and Horticultural Sciences, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Eryao Wang
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Science, Henan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Zhengzhou, Henan, China,*Correspondence: Eryao Wang ✉
| | - Shijie Lyu
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Science, Henan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Zhengzhou, Henan, China,The Shennong Laboratory, Zhengzhou, Henan, China,Shijie Lyu ✉
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17
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Fabová Z, Loncová B, Bauer M, Sirotkin AV. Interrelationships Between miR-34a and FSH in the Control of Porcine Ovarian Cell Functions. Reprod Sci 2022; 30:1789-1807. [DOI: 10.1007/s43032-022-01127-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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18
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Paulino LRFM, de Assis EIT, Azevedo VAN, Silva BR, da Cunha EV, Silva JRV. Why Is It So Difficult To Have Competent Oocytes from In vitro Cultured Preantral Follicles? Reprod Sci 2022; 29:3321-3334. [PMID: 35084715 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-021-00840-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 12/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The developmental competence of oocytes is acquired gradually during follicular development, mainly through oocyte accumulation of RNA molecules and proteins that will be used during fertilization and early embryonic development. Several attempts to develop in vitro culture systems to support preantral follicle development up to maturation are reported in the literature, but oocyte competence has not yet been achieved in human and domestic animals. The difficulties to have fertilizable oocytes are related to thousands of mRNAs and proteins that need to be synthesized, long-term duration of follicular development, size of preovulatory follicles, composition of in vitro culture medium, and the need of multi-step culture systems. The development of a culture system that maintains bidirectional communication between the oocyte and granulosa cells and that meets the metabolic demands of each stage of follicle growth is the key to sustain an extended culture period. This review discusses the physiological and molecular mechanisms that determine acquisition of oocyte competence in vitro, like oocyte transcriptional activity, follicle and oocyte sizes, and length and regulation of follicular development in murine, human, and domestic animal species. The state of art of in vitro follicular development and the challenges to have complete follicular development in vitro are also highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laís R F M Paulino
- Laboratory of Biotechnology and Physiology of Reproduction (LABIREP), Federal University of Ceara, Av. Comandante Maurocélio Rocha Ponte 100, Sobral, CE, CEP 62041-040, Brazil
| | - Ernando I T de Assis
- Laboratory of Biotechnology and Physiology of Reproduction (LABIREP), Federal University of Ceara, Av. Comandante Maurocélio Rocha Ponte 100, Sobral, CE, CEP 62041-040, Brazil
| | - Venância A N Azevedo
- Laboratory of Biotechnology and Physiology of Reproduction (LABIREP), Federal University of Ceara, Av. Comandante Maurocélio Rocha Ponte 100, Sobral, CE, CEP 62041-040, Brazil
| | - Bianca R Silva
- Laboratory of Biotechnology and Physiology of Reproduction (LABIREP), Federal University of Ceara, Av. Comandante Maurocélio Rocha Ponte 100, Sobral, CE, CEP 62041-040, Brazil
| | - Ellen V da Cunha
- Laboratory of Biotechnology and Physiology of Reproduction (LABIREP), Federal University of Ceara, Av. Comandante Maurocélio Rocha Ponte 100, Sobral, CE, CEP 62041-040, Brazil
| | - José R V Silva
- Laboratory of Biotechnology and Physiology of Reproduction (LABIREP), Federal University of Ceara, Av. Comandante Maurocélio Rocha Ponte 100, Sobral, CE, CEP 62041-040, Brazil.
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Yahaya TO, Bashar DM, Oladele EO, Umar J, Anyebe D, Izuafa A. Epigenetics in the etiology and management of infertility. World J Med Genet 2022; 10:7-21. [DOI: 10.5496/wjmg.v10.i2.7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2022] [Revised: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epigenetic disruptions have been implicated in some cases of infertility and can serve as therapeutic targets. However, the involvement of epigenetics in infertility has not received adequate attention.
AIM This study aimed to determine the epigenetic basis of infertility in order to enhance public knowledge.
METHODS Relevant articles on the subject were collected from PubMed, RCA, Google Scholar, SpringerLink, and Scopus. The articles were pooled together and duplicates were removed using Endnote software.
RESULTS Available information shows that epigenetic mechanisms, mainly DNA methylation, histone modification, and microRNA interference are necessary for normal gametogenesis and embryogenesis. As a result, epigenetic disruptions in genes that control gametogenesis and embryogenesis, such as DDX3X, ADH4, AZF, PLAG1, D1RAS3, CYGB, MEST, JMJD1A, KCNQ1, IGF2, H19, and MTHFR may result in infertility. Aberrant DNA methylation during genomic imprinting and parental epigenetic mark erasures, in particular, may affect the DNA epigenomes of sperm and oocytes, resulting in reproductive abnormalities. Histone epigenetic dysregulation during oocyte development and histone-protamine replacement in the sperm may also cause reproductive abnormalities. Furthermore, overexpression or repression of certain microRNAs embedded in the ovary, testis, embryo, as well as granulosa cells and oocytes may impair reproduction. Male infertility is characterized by spermatogenesis failure, which includes oligozoospermia, asthenozoospermia, and teratozoospermia, while female infertility is characterized by polycystic ovary syndrome. Some epigenetic modifications can be reversed by deactivating the regulatory enzymes, implying that epigenetic reprogramming could help treat infertility in some cases. For some disorders, epigenetic drugs are available, but none have been formulated for infertility.
CONCLUSION Some cases of infertility have an epigenetic etiology and can be treated by reversing the same epigenetic mechanism that caused it. As a result, medical practitioners are urged to come up with epigenetic treatments for infertility that have an epigenetic cause.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Danlami M Bashar
- Department of Microbiology, Federal University Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State 23401, Nigeria
| | - Esther O Oladele
- Biology Unit, Distance Learning Institute, University of Lagos, Lagos State 23401, Nigeria
| | - Ja'afar Umar
- Department of Biological Sciences, Federal University Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State 23401, Nigeria
| | - Daniel Anyebe
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State 23401, Nigeria
| | - Abdulrazaq Izuafa
- Department of Biological Sciences, Federal University Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State 23401, Nigeria
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20
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Taraschi A, Cimini C, Colosimo A, Ramal-Sanchez M, Valbonetti L, Bernabò N, Barboni B. An interactive analysis of the mouse oviductal miRNA profiles. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:1015360. [PMID: 36340025 PMCID: PMC9627480 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.1015360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs are small non-coding molecules that control several cellular functions and act as negative post-transcriptional regulators of the mRNA. While their implication in several biological functions is already known, an important role as regulators of different physiological and pathological processes in fertilization and embryo development is currently emerging. Indeed, miRNAs have been found in the oviductal fluid packaged within the extracellular vesicles, which might act as natural nanoshuttles by transporting lipids, proteins, RNA molecules and miRNAs from the oviduct to the gametes or embryos. Here, an exhaustive bibliography search was carried out, followed by the construction of a computational model based on the networks theory in an attempt to recreate and elucidate the pathways potentially activated by the oviductal miRNA. The omics data published to date were gathered to create the Oviductal MiRNome, in which the miRNA target genes and their interactions are represented by using stringApp and the Network analyzer from Cytoscape 3.7.2. Then, the hyperlinked nodes were identified to investigate the pathways in which they are involved using the gene ontology enrichment analysis. To study the phenotypical effects after the removal of key genes on the reproductive system and embryo, knockout mouse lines for every protein-coding gene were investigated by using the International Mouse Phenotyping Consortium database. The creation of the Oviductal MiRNome revealed the presence of important genes and their interactions within the network. The functional enrichment analysis revealed that the hyperlinked nodes are involved in fundamental cellular functions, both structural and regulatory/signaling, suggesting their implication in fertilization and early embryo development. This fact was as well evidenced by the effects of the gene deletion in KO mice on the reproductive system and embryo development. The present study highlights the importance of studying the miRNA profiles and their enormous potential as tools to improve the assisted reproductive techniques currently used in human and animal reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Taraschi
- Faculty of Biosciences and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale Dell’Abruzzo e Del Molise “G. Caporale”, Teramo, Italy
| | - Costanza Cimini
- Faculty of Biosciences and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | - Alessia Colosimo
- Faculty of Biosciences and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | - Marina Ramal-Sanchez
- Faculty of Biosciences and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | - Luca Valbonetti
- Faculty of Biosciences and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
- Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology (CNR-IBBC/EMMA/Infrafrontier/IMPC), National Research Council, Rome, Italy
| | - Nicola Bernabò
- Faculty of Biosciences and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
- Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology (CNR-IBBC/EMMA/Infrafrontier/IMPC), National Research Council, Rome, Italy
- *Correspondence: Nicola Bernabò,
| | - Barbara Barboni
- Faculty of Biosciences and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
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21
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Akhtarkhavari T, Bahrami AR, M Matin M. Downregulation of miR-21 as a promising strategy to overcome drug resistance in cancer. Eur J Pharmacol 2022; 932:175233. [PMID: 36038011 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2022.175233] [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: 04/01/2022] [Revised: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Despite tremendous achievements in the field of targeted cancer therapy, chemotherapy is still the main treatment option, which is challenged by acquired drug resistance. Various microRNAs are involved in developing drug-resistant cells. miR-21 is one of the first identified miRNAs involved in this process. Here, we conducted a literature review to categorize different mechanisms employed by miR-21 to drive drug resistance. miR-21 targets various genes involved in many pathways that can justify chemoresistance. It alters cancer cell metabolism and facilitates adaptation to the new environment. It also enhances drug detoxification in cancerous cells and increases genomic instability. We also summarized various strategies applied for the inhibition of miR-21 in order to reverse cancer drug resistance. These strategies include the delivery of antagomiRs, miRZip knockdown vectors, inhibitory small molecules, CRISPR-Cas9 technology, catalytic nucleic acids, artificial DNA and RNA sponges, and nanostructures like mesoporous silica nanoparticles, dendrimers, and exosomes. Furthermore, current challenges and limitations in targeting miR-21 are discussed in this article. Although huge progress has been made in the downregulation of miR-21 in drug-resistant cancer cells, there are still many challenges to be resolved. More research is still required to find the best strategy and timeline for the downregulation of miR-21 and also the most feasible approach for the delivery of this system into the tumor cells. In conclusion, downregulation of miR-21 would be a promising strategy to reverse chemoresistance, but still, more studies are required to clarify the aforementioned issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tara Akhtarkhavari
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Ahmad Reza Bahrami
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran; Industrial Biotechnology Research Group, Institute of Biotechnology, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Maryam M Matin
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran; Novel Diagnostics and Therapeutics Research Group, Institute of Biotechnology, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran; Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Research Group, Academic Center for Education, Culture and Research (ACECR)-Khorasan Razavi, Mashhad, Iran.
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22
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Wang Y, Tian CC, Jiao YY, Liu MR, Ma XS, Jin HX, Su YC, Zhang XY, Niu WB, Yao GD, Song WY. miR-188-3p-targeted regulation of ATG7 affects cell autophagy in patients with nonobstructive azoospermia. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2022; 20:90. [PMID: 35710416 PMCID: PMC9202134 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-022-00951-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA) is one of the most difficult forms of male infertility to treat, and its pathogenesis is still unclear. miRNAs can regulate autophagy by affecting their target gene expression. Our previous study found that miR-188-3p expression in NOA patients was low. There are potential binding sites between the autophagy gene ATG7 and miR-188-3p. This study aimed to verify the binding site between miR-188-3p and ATG7 and whether miR-188-3p affects autophagy and participates in NOA by regulating ATG7 to influence the autophagy marker genes LC3 and Beclin-1. METHODS Testicular tissue from 16 NOA patients and 16 patients with normal spermatogenesis and 5 cases in each group of pathological sections were collected. High-throughput sequencing was performed to detect mRNA expression differences. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), Western blotting, immunohistochemical staining and immunofluorescence were used to detect protein localization and expression. Autophagosome changes were detected by electron microscopy. The targeting relationship between miR-188-3p and ATG7 was confirmed by a luciferase assay. RESULTS ATG7 protein was localized in the cytoplasm of spermatogenic cells at all levels, and the ATG7 gene (p = 0.019) and protein (p = 0.000) were more highly expressed in the NOA group. ATG7 expression after overexpression/inhibition of miR-188-3p was significantly lower (p = 0.029)/higher (p = 0.021) than in the control group. After overexpression of miR-188-3p, the ATG7 3'UTR-WT luciferase activity was impeded (p = 0.004), while the ATG7 3'UTR-MUT luciferase activity showed no significant difference (p = 0.46). LC3 (p = 0.023) and Beclin-1 (p = 0.041) expression in the NOA group was significantly higher. LC3 and Beclin-1 gene expression after miR-188-3p overexpression/inhibition was significantly lower (p = 0.010 and 0.024, respectively) and higher (p = 0.024 and 0.049, respectively). LC3 punctate aggregation in the cytoplasm decreased after overexpression of miR-188-3p, while the LC3 punctate aggregation in the miR-188-3p inhibitor group was higher. The number of autophagosomes in the miR-188-3p mimic group was lower than the number of autophagosomes in the mimic NC group. CONCLUSIONS LC3 and Beclin-1 were more highly expressed in NOA testes and negatively correlated with the expression of miR-188-3p, suggesting that miR-188-3p may be involved in the process of autophagy in NOA. miR-188-3p may regulate its target gene ATG7 to participate in autophagy anDual luciferase experiment d affect the development of NOA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052 China
| | - Cheng-Cheng Tian
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Nanyang Central Hospital, Nanyang, 473000 China
| | - Yun-Yun Jiao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052 China
| | - Min-Rui Liu
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Zhengzhou Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xue-Shan Ma
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052 China
| | - Hai-Xia Jin
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052 China
| | - Ying-Chun Su
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052 China
| | - Xiang-Yang Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052 China
| | - Wen-Bin Niu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052 China
| | - Gui-Don Yao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052 China
| | - Wen-Yan Song
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052 China
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Esmaeilivand M, Abedelahi A, Hamdi K, Farzadi L, Goharitaban S, Fattahi A, Niknafs B. Role of miRNAs in preimplantation embryo development and their potential as embryo selection biomarkers. Reprod Fertil Dev 2022; 34:589-597. [PMID: 35440361 DOI: 10.1071/rd21274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play different roles in oocyte fertilisation, degradation of maternal transcripts, embryo development, and implantation. During in vitro fertilisation (IVF), different miRNAs are released from embryos into the spent culture media (SCM) that can potentially reflect the status of the embryo. AIMS This study is the assessment of miRNAs, which secreted in SCM during the IVF cycles can be used as noninvasive biomarkers to predict an embryo's ability to form a blastocyst, implant, and give live birth. METHODS Systematic literature search was conducted to review all recent studies about miRNAs as potential non-invasive biomarkers for selecting the best embryos in the assisted reproductive technology (ART) cycle. KEY RESULTS Studies have shown that levels of some miRNAs in the SCM have an association with the implantation potential and pregnancy outcome of the embryo. CONCLUSIONS Embryo-secreted miRNAs can be used as potential non-invasive biomarkers for selecting the best embryos in the ART cycle. Unfortunately, few human studies evaluated the association between ART outcomes and miRNAs in SCM. IMPLICATIONS This review can pave the way for further miRNAs transcriptomic studies on human embryo culture media and introducing a specific miRNA profile as a multivariable prediction model for embryo selection in IVF cycles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masoumeh Esmaeilivand
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Science, Tabriz, Iran; and Department of Reproductive Biology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Ali Abedelahi
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Kobra Hamdi
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Laya Farzadi
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Sepide Goharitaban
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Science, Tabriz, Iran; and Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Amir Fattahi
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Science, Tabriz, Iran; and Department of Reproductive Biology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; and Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Behrooz Niknafs
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Science, Tabriz, Iran; and Department of Reproductive Biology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; and Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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Cheng J, Yang F, Liu S, Zhao H, Lu W, Zhang Q. Transcriptomic Analysis Reveals Functional Interaction of mRNA-lncRNA-miRNA in Steroidogenesis and Spermatogenesis of Gynogenetic Japanese Flounder ( Paralichthys olivaceus). BIOLOGY 2022; 11:biology11020213. [PMID: 35205081 PMCID: PMC8869744 DOI: 10.3390/biology11020213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Revised: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Teleost fishes exhibit extraordinary diversity, plasticity and adaptability with their sex determination and sexual development, and there is growing evidence that non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are emerging as critical regulators of reproduction. Japanese flounder (Paralichthys olivaceus) is an important marine cultured fish that presents significant sexual dimorphism with bigger females, in which gynogenesis has been applied for aquaculture industry. In order to reveal the regulatory mechanisms of sexual development in gynogenetic female and sex-reversed neo-male P. olivaceus, the lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA interactions were investigated using high-throughput sequencing. A total of 6772 differentially expressed mRNAs (DEmRNAs), 2284 DElncRNAs, and 244 DEmiRNAs were obtained between gynogenetic female ovaries and sex-reversed neo-male testes. Genes in the steroid hormone biosynthesis and secretion pathway were enriched and mostly significantly upregulated in neo-male testes. Subsequently, network analysis uncovered high functional specificity for gynogenetic P. olivaceus sperm motility, as co-expressed DEmRNAs were significantly enriched in microtubule and cytoskeleton-related biological processes. Clustered miRNAs were characterized in the P. olivaceus genome with examples of the largest conserved let-7 clusters. The 20 let-7 members are distributed in 11 clusters and may not transcribe together with their neighboring miR-125b, with let-7 repressing cyp11a and miR-125b repressing esr2b, both as key steroidogenesis pathway genes. In summary, this study provides comprehensive insights into the mRNA-miRNA-lncRNA functional crosstalk in teleost sexual development and gametogenesis and will expand our understanding of ncRNA biology in teleost gynogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Cheng
- Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding (Ocean University of China), Ministry of Education, 5 Yushan Road, Qingdao 266003, China; (F.Y.); (S.L.); (H.Z.); (W.L.)
- Laboratory for Marine Fisheries Science and Food Production Processes, Pilot National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology (Qingdao), 1 Wenhai Road, Qingdao 266237, China
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Aquatic Germplasm of Hainan Province, Sanya Oceanographic Institution, Ocean University of China, Sanya 572024, China
- Correspondence: (J.C.); (Q.Z.); Tel.: +86-0532-82031986 (J.C.)
| | - Fan Yang
- Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding (Ocean University of China), Ministry of Education, 5 Yushan Road, Qingdao 266003, China; (F.Y.); (S.L.); (H.Z.); (W.L.)
| | - Saisai Liu
- Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding (Ocean University of China), Ministry of Education, 5 Yushan Road, Qingdao 266003, China; (F.Y.); (S.L.); (H.Z.); (W.L.)
| | - Haitao Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding (Ocean University of China), Ministry of Education, 5 Yushan Road, Qingdao 266003, China; (F.Y.); (S.L.); (H.Z.); (W.L.)
| | - Wei Lu
- Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding (Ocean University of China), Ministry of Education, 5 Yushan Road, Qingdao 266003, China; (F.Y.); (S.L.); (H.Z.); (W.L.)
| | - Quanqi Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding (Ocean University of China), Ministry of Education, 5 Yushan Road, Qingdao 266003, China; (F.Y.); (S.L.); (H.Z.); (W.L.)
- Laboratory for Marine Fisheries Science and Food Production Processes, Pilot National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology (Qingdao), 1 Wenhai Road, Qingdao 266237, China
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Aquatic Germplasm of Hainan Province, Sanya Oceanographic Institution, Ocean University of China, Sanya 572024, China
- Correspondence: (J.C.); (Q.Z.); Tel.: +86-0532-82031986 (J.C.)
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25
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Pandit S, Sharma R. Non invasive assessment of human oocytes and embryos in assisted reproduction: Review on present practices and future trends. Med J Armed Forces India 2022; 78:7-16. [PMID: 35035038 PMCID: PMC8737104 DOI: 10.1016/j.mjafi.2021.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2020] [Accepted: 04/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Oocyte and embryo grading is one of the most important steps in assisted reproductive technology to identify the best among cultured embryos for transfer or vitrification. The most commonly used non-invasive method is morphological assessment of gametes and embryos using a microscope. This method despite being simple and cost-effective has interobserver and intraobserver variability and subjectivity and has little to offer about the physiological state of embryos. This review sourced research articles and reviews pertaining to other non-invasive assessment methodologies from Medline and PubMed to collate latest technologies in vogue and identify novel methodologies of the future. The review assesses the current understanding in oocyte and embryo grading and touches upon novel non-invasive techniques and potential biomarkers to identify the best embryo. The latest available literature on time-lapse imaging, hierarchical algorithms, omics (consisting of proteomics and secretomes), miRNAs, mitochondrial RNAs and artificial intelligence has been accessed to summarize the enormous information available, to identify gaps in current interpretations, to identify emerging technologies and to provide direction for future research. This review will greatly benefit anyone practicing assisted reproduction and clinical embryology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Subhendu Pandit
- Professor (Anatomy) & Clinical Embryologist, Army Hospital (R&R), Delhi Cantt, India,Corresponding author.
| | - Rajesh Sharma
- Classified Specialist (Obst & Gynae) & ART Specialist, ART Centre, Army Hospital (R&R), Delhi Cantt, India
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26
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Cajas YN, Cañón-Beltrán K, de la Blanca MGM, Sánchez JM, Fernandez-Fuertes B, González EM, Rizos D. Role of reproductive fluids and extracellular vesicles in embryo–maternal interaction during early pregnancy in cattle. Reprod Fertil Dev 2021; 34:117-138. [PMID: 35231231 DOI: 10.1071/rd21275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The coordinated interaction between the developing embryo and the maternal reproductive tract is essential for the establishment and maintenance of pregnancy in mammals. An early cross-talk is established between the oviduct/uterus and the gametes and embryo. This dialogue will shape the microenvironment in which gamete transport, fertilisation, and early embryonic development occur. Due to the small size of the gametes and the early embryo relative to the volume of the oviductal and uterine lumina, collection of tissue and fluid adjacent to these cells is challenging in cattle. Thus, the combination of in vivo and in vitro models seems to be the most appropriate approach to better understand this fine dialogue. In this respect, the aim of this review is to summarise the recent findings in relation to gamete/embryo-maternal interaction during the pre-elongation period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yulia N Cajas
- Department of Animal Reproduction, National Center Institute for Agriculture and Food Research and Technology (CSIC-INIA), Ctra de la Coruña KM 5.9, 28040 Madrid, Spain; and Laboratorio de Biotecnología de la Reproducción Animal, Facultad de Ciencias Agropecuarias, Universidad de Cuenca (UC), EC010205 Cuenca, Ecuador
| | - Karina Cañón-Beltrán
- Department of Animal Reproduction, National Center Institute for Agriculture and Food Research and Technology (CSIC-INIA), Ctra de la Coruña KM 5.9, 28040 Madrid, Spain; and Facultad de Ciencias Agrarias y Ambientales, Programa de Medicina Veterinaria, Fundación Universitaria Juan de Castellanos (JdC), 150001 Tunja, Colombia
| | - María Gemma Millán de la Blanca
- Department of Animal Reproduction, National Center Institute for Agriculture and Food Research and Technology (CSIC-INIA), Ctra de la Coruña KM 5.9, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - José M Sánchez
- Department of Animal Reproduction, National Center Institute for Agriculture and Food Research and Technology (CSIC-INIA), Ctra de la Coruña KM 5.9, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Beatriz Fernandez-Fuertes
- Department of Animal Reproduction, National Center Institute for Agriculture and Food Research and Technology (CSIC-INIA), Ctra de la Coruña KM 5.9, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Encina M González
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Veterinary Faculty, Complutense University of Madrid (UCM), 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Dimitrios Rizos
- Department of Animal Reproduction, National Center Institute for Agriculture and Food Research and Technology (CSIC-INIA), Ctra de la Coruña KM 5.9, 28040 Madrid, Spain
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27
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Sirard MA. How the environment affects early embryonic development. Reprod Fertil Dev 2021; 34:203-213. [PMID: 35231267 DOI: 10.1071/rd21266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
In the field of animal reproduction, the environment associated with gametes and embryos refers to the parents' condition as well as conditions surrounding gametes and embryos in vivo or in vitro . This environment is now known to influence not only the functionality of the early embryo but potentially the future phenotype of the offspring. Using transcriptomic and epigenetic molecular analysis, and the bovine model, recent research has shown that both the female and the male metabolic status, for example age, can affect gene expression and gene programming in the embryo. Evidence demonstrates that milking cows, which are losing weight at the time of conception, generates compromised embryos and offspring with a unique metabolic signature. A similar phenomenon has been associated with different culture conditions and the IVF procedure. The general common consequence of these situations is an embryo behaving on 'economy' mode where translation, cell division and ATP production is reduced, potentially to adapt to the perceived future environment. Few epidemiological studies have been done in bovines to assess if these changes result in a different phenotype and more studies are required to associate specific molecular changes in embryos with visible consequences later in life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc-André Sirard
- Faculté des Sciences de l'Agriculture et de l'Alimentation, Département des Sciences Animales, Centre de Recherche en Reproduction, Développement et Santé Intergénérationnelle (CRDSI), Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
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28
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Xie Y, Liu G, Zang X, Hu Q, Zhou C, Li Y, Liu D, Hong L. Differential Expression Pattern of Goat Uterine Fluids Extracellular Vesicles miRNAs during Peri-Implantation. Cells 2021; 10:cells10092308. [PMID: 34571957 PMCID: PMC8470123 DOI: 10.3390/cells10092308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2021] [Revised: 08/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Early pregnancy failure occurs when a mature embryo attaches to an unreceptive endometrium. During the formation of a receptive endometrium, extracellular vesicles (EVs) of the uterine fluids (UFs) deliver regulatory molecules such as small RNAs to mediate intrauterine communication between the embryo and the endometrium. However, profiling of small RNAs in goat UFs’ EVs during pregnancy recognition (day 16) has not been carried out. In this study, EVs were isolated from UFs on day 16 of the estrous cycle or gestation. They were isolated by Optiprep™ Density G radient (ODG) and verified by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA), and Western blotting. Immunostaining demonstrated that CD63 was present both in the endometrial epithelium and glandular epithelium, and stain intensity was greater in the pregnant endometrium compared to the non-pregnant endometrium. Small RNA sequencing revealed that UFs’ EVs contained numerous sRNA families and a total of 106 differentially expressed miRNAs (DEMs). Additionally, 1867 target genes of the DEMs were obtained, and miRNA–mRNA interaction networks were constructed. GO and KEGG analysis showed that miRNAs were significantly associated with the formation of a receptive endometrium and embryo implantation. In addition, the fluorescence in situ hybridization assay (FISH) showed that chi-miR-451-5p was mainly expressed in stromal cells of the endometrium and a higher level was detected in the endometrial luminal epithelium in pregnant states. Moreover, the dual-luciferase reporter assay showed that chi-miR-451-5p directly binds to PSMB8 and may play an important role in the formation of a receptive endometrium and embryo implantation. In conclusion, these results reveal that UFs’ EVs contain various small RNAs that may be vital in the formation of a receptive endometrium and embryo implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanshe Xie
- College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; (Y.X.); (G.L.); (X.Z.); (Q.H.); (C.Z.); (Y.L.)
- National Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Livestock and Poutry, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Guangbin Liu
- College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; (Y.X.); (G.L.); (X.Z.); (Q.H.); (C.Z.); (Y.L.)
- National Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Livestock and Poutry, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Xupeng Zang
- College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; (Y.X.); (G.L.); (X.Z.); (Q.H.); (C.Z.); (Y.L.)
- National Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Livestock and Poutry, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Qun Hu
- College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; (Y.X.); (G.L.); (X.Z.); (Q.H.); (C.Z.); (Y.L.)
- National Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Livestock and Poutry, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Chen Zhou
- College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; (Y.X.); (G.L.); (X.Z.); (Q.H.); (C.Z.); (Y.L.)
- National Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Livestock and Poutry, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Yaokun Li
- College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; (Y.X.); (G.L.); (X.Z.); (Q.H.); (C.Z.); (Y.L.)
- National Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Livestock and Poutry, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Dewu Liu
- College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; (Y.X.); (G.L.); (X.Z.); (Q.H.); (C.Z.); (Y.L.)
- National Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Livestock and Poutry, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
- Correspondence: (D.L.); (L.H.)
| | - Linjun Hong
- College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; (Y.X.); (G.L.); (X.Z.); (Q.H.); (C.Z.); (Y.L.)
- National Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Livestock and Poutry, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
- Correspondence: (D.L.); (L.H.)
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Building Pluripotency Identity in the Early Embryo and Derived Stem Cells. Cells 2021; 10:cells10082049. [PMID: 34440818 PMCID: PMC8391114 DOI: 10.3390/cells10082049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Revised: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The fusion of two highly differentiated cells, an oocyte with a spermatozoon, gives rise to the zygote, a single totipotent cell, which has the capability to develop into a complete, fully functional organism. Then, as development proceeds, a series of programmed cell divisions occur whereby the arising cells progressively acquire their own cellular and molecular identity, and totipotency narrows until when pluripotency is achieved. The path towards pluripotency involves transcriptome modulation, remodeling of the chromatin epigenetic landscape to which external modulators contribute. Both human and mouse embryos are a source of different types of pluripotent stem cells whose characteristics can be captured and maintained in vitro. The main aim of this review is to address the cellular properties and the molecular signature of the emerging cells during mouse and human early development, highlighting similarities and differences between the two species and between the embryos and their cognate stem cells.
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30
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Šečić E, Kogel KH, Ladera-Carmona MJ. Biotic stress-associated microRNA families in plants. JOURNAL OF PLANT PHYSIOLOGY 2021; 263:153451. [PMID: 34119743 DOI: 10.1016/j.jplph.2021.153451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Revised: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Plants and animals utilize various regulatory mechanisms for control of gene expression during development in different tissues and cell types. About 30 years ago, a new mechanism of gene regulation, termed RNA interference (RNAi), was discovered and proved revolutionary for the mechanistic understanding of gene regulation. Noncoding RNAs, including short, 21-24 nucleotide (nt) long microRNAs (miRNAs), endogenously-generated from MIR genes, are key components of RNAi processes, by post-transcriptionally controlling transcripts with antisense complementarity through either translational repression or mRNA degradation. Since their discovery, important roles in regulation of ontogenetic development, cell differentiation, proliferation, and apoptosis in eukaryotes have been elucidated. In plants, miRNAs are known regulatory elements of basic endogenous functions and responses to the environmental stimuli. While the role of miRNAs in regulation of nutrient uptake, circadian clock and general response to abiotic stress is already well understood, a comprehensive understanding of their immune-regulatory roles in response to various biotic stress factors has not yet been achieved. This review summarizes the current understanding of the function of miRNAs and their targets in plants during interaction with microbial pathogens and symbionts. Additionally, we provide a consensus conclusion regarding the typical induction or repression response of conserved miRNA families to pathogenic and beneficial fungi, bacteria, and oomycetes, as well as an outlook of agronomic application of miRNAs in plants. Further investigation of plant miRNAs responsive to microbes, aided with novel sequencing and bioinformatics approaches for discovery and prediction in non-model organisms holds great potential for development of new forms of plant protection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ena Šečić
- Institute of Phytopathology, Centre for BioSystems, Land Use and Nutrition, Justus Liebig University, Heinrich-Buff-Ring 26, D-35392, Giessen, Germany.
| | - Karl-Heinz Kogel
- Institute of Phytopathology, Centre for BioSystems, Land Use and Nutrition, Justus Liebig University, Heinrich-Buff-Ring 26, D-35392, Giessen, Germany.
| | - Maria Jose Ladera-Carmona
- Institute of Phytopathology, Centre for BioSystems, Land Use and Nutrition, Justus Liebig University, Heinrich-Buff-Ring 26, D-35392, Giessen, Germany.
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31
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Abu-Halima M, Becker LS, Ayesh BM, Baus SL, Hamza A, Fischer U, Hammadeh M, Keller A, Meese E. Characterization of micro-RNA in women with different ovarian reserve. Sci Rep 2021; 11:13351. [PMID: 34172798 PMCID: PMC8233349 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-92901-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Women undergoing infertility treatment are routinely subjected to one or more tests of ovarian reserve. Therefore, an adequate assessment of the ovarian reserve is necessary for the treatment. In this study, we aimed to characterize the potential role of microRNAs (miRNAs) as biomarkers for women with different ovarian reserves. A total of 159 women were recruited in the study and classified according to their anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) level into three groups: (1) low ovarian reserve (LAMH, n = 39), (2) normal ovarian reserve (NAMH, n = 80), and (3) high ovarian reserve (HAMH, n = 40). SurePrint Human miRNA array screening and reverse transcription-quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) were respectively employed to screen and validate the miRNA abundance level in the three tested groups. Compared with NAMH, the abundance level of 34 and 98 miRNAs was found to be significantly altered in LAMH and HAMH, respectively. The abundance level of miRNAs was further validated by RT-qPCR in both, the screening samples as well as in an independent set of validation samples. The abundance levels of the validated miRNAs were significantly correlated with the AMH level. The best AUC value for the prediction of the increase and decrease in the AMH level was obtained for the miR-100-5p and miR-21-5p, respectively. The level of miRNAs abundance correlates with the level of AMH, which may serve as a tool for identifying women with a different ovarian reserve and may help to lay the ground for the development of novel diagnostic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masood Abu-Halima
- Institute of Human Genetics, Saarland University, 66421, Homburg, Saar, Germany.
| | - Lea Simone Becker
- Institute of Human Genetics, Saarland University, 66421, Homburg, Saar, Germany
| | - Basim M Ayesh
- Department of Laboratory Medical Sciences, Alaqsa University, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Simona Lucia Baus
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Saarland University, 66421, Homburg, Saar, Germany
| | - Amer Hamza
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Saarland University, 66421, Homburg, Saar, Germany.,Kantonspital Baden, Im Ergel 1, 5400, Baden, Switzerland
| | - Ulrike Fischer
- Institute of Human Genetics, Saarland University, 66421, Homburg, Saar, Germany
| | - Mohamad Hammadeh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Saarland University, 66421, Homburg, Saar, Germany
| | - Andreas Keller
- Chair for Clinical Bioinformatics, Saarland University, 66123, Saarbruecken, Germany
| | - Eckart Meese
- Institute of Human Genetics, Saarland University, 66421, Homburg, Saar, Germany
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Human Granulosa Cells-Stemness Properties, Molecular Cross-Talk and Follicular Angiogenesis. Cells 2021; 10:cells10061396. [PMID: 34198768 PMCID: PMC8229878 DOI: 10.3390/cells10061396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2021] [Revised: 05/29/2021] [Accepted: 06/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The ovarian follicle is the basic functional unit of the ovary, comprising theca cells and granulosa cells (GCs). Two different types of GCs, mural GCs and cumulus cells (CCs), serve different functions during folliculogenesis. Mural GCs produce oestrogen during the follicular phase and progesterone after ovulation, while CCs surround the oocyte tightly and form the cumulus oophurus and corona radiata inner cell layer. CCs are also engaged in bi-directional metabolite exchange with the oocyte, as they form gap-junctions, which are crucial for both the oocyte’s proper maturation and GC proliferation. However, the function of both GCs and CCs is dependent on proper follicular angiogenesis. Aside from participating in complex molecular interplay with the oocyte, the ovarian follicular cells exhibit stem-like properties, characteristic of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). Both GCs and CCs remain under the influence of various miRNAs, and some of them may contribute to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) occurrence. Considering increasing female fertility problems worldwide, it is of interest to develop new strategies enhancing assisted reproductive techniques. Therefore, it is important to carefully consider GCs as ovarian stem cells in terms of the cellular features and molecular pathways involved in their development and interactions as well as outline their possible application in translational medicine.
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Tyc KM, Wong A, Scott RT, Tao X, Schindler K, Xing J. Analysis of DNA variants in miRNAs and miRNA 3'UTR binding sites in female infertility patients. J Transl Med 2021; 101:503-512. [PMID: 33070169 PMCID: PMC7987713 DOI: 10.1038/s41374-020-00498-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Revised: 09/24/2020] [Accepted: 09/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Early human embryogenesis relies on maternal gene products accumulated during oocyte growth and maturation, until around day-3 post-fertilization when human zygotic genome activation occurs. The maternal-to-zygotic transition (MZT) is a tightly coordinated process of selective maternal transcript clearance and new zygotic transcript production. If MZT is disrupted, it will lead to developmental arrest and pregnancy loss. It is well established that microRNA (miRNA) mutations disrupt regulation of their target transcripts. We hypothesize that some cases of embryonic arrest and pregnancy loss could be explained by the mutations in the maternal genome that affect miRNA-target transcript pairs. To this end, we examined mutations within miRNAs or miRNA binding sites in the 3' untranslated regions (3'UTR) of target transcripts. Using whole-exome sequencing data from 178 women undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) procedures, we identified 1197 variants in miRNA genes, including 93 single nucleotide variants (SNVs) and 19 small insertions/deletions (INDELs) within the seed region of 100 miRNAs. Eight miRNA seed-region variants were significantly enriched among our patients when compared to a normal population. Within predicted 3'UTR miRNA binding sites, we identified 7393 SNVs and 1488 INDELs. Between our patients and a normal population, 52 SNVs and 30 INDELs showed significant association in the single-variant testing, whereas 51 genes showed significant association in the gene-burden analysis for genes that are expressed in preimplantation embryos. Interestingly, we found that many genes with disrupted 3'UTR miRNA binding sites follow gene expression patterns resembling MZT. In addition, some of these variants showed dramatic allele frequency difference between the patient and the normal group, offering potential utility as biomarkers for screening patients prior to IVF procedures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna M Tyc
- Department of Genetics, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, USA
- VCU Massey Cancer Center, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Anthony Wong
- Department of Genetics, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Richard T Scott
- Reproductive Medicine Associates of New Jersey, Basking Ridge, NJ, USA
| | - Xin Tao
- Foundation for Embryonic Competence, Basking Ridge, NJ, USA
| | - Karen Schindler
- Department of Genetics, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, USA
- Human Genetics Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Jinchuan Xing
- Department of Genetics, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, USA.
- Human Genetics Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, USA.
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Sperm Methylome Profiling Can Discern Fertility Levels in the Porcine Biomedical Model. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22052679. [PMID: 33800945 PMCID: PMC7961483 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22052679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2021] [Revised: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
A combined Genotyping By Sequencing (GBS) and methylated DNA immunoprecipitation (MeDIP) protocol was used to identify—in parallel—genetic variation (Genomic-Wide Association Studies (GWAS) and epigenetic differences of Differentially Methylated Regions (DMR) in the genome of spermatozoa from the porcine animal model. Breeding boars with good semen quality (n = 11) and specific and well-documented differences in fertility (farrowing rate, FR) and prolificacy (litter size, LS) (n = 7) in artificial insemination programs, using combined FR and LS, were categorized as High Fertile (HF, n = 4) or Low Fertile (LF, n = 3), and boars with Unknown Fertility (UF, n = 4) were tested for eventual epigenetical similarity with those fertility-proven. We identified 165,944 Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) that explained 14–15% of variance among selection lines. Between HF and LF individuals (n = 7, 4 HF and 3 LF), we identified 169 SNPs with p ≤ 0.00015, which explained 58% of the variance. For the epigenetic analyses, we considered fertility and period of ejaculate collection (late-summer and mid-autumn). Approximately three times more DMRs were observed in HF than in LF boars across these periods. Interestingly, UF boars were clearly clustered with one of the other HF or LF groups. The highest differences in DMRs between HF and LF experimental groups across the pig genome were located in the chr 3, 9, 13, and 16, with most DMRs being hypermethylated in LF boars. In both HF and LF boars, DMRs were mostly hypermethylated in late-summer compared to mid-autumn. Three overlaps were detected between SNPs (p ≤ 0.0005, n = 1318) and CpG sites within DMRs. In conclusion, fertility levels in breeding males including FR and LS can be discerned using methylome analyses. The findings in this biomedical animal model ought to be applied besides sire selection for andrological diagnosis of idiopathic sub/infertility.
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Mazzarella R, Bastos NM, Bridi A, Del Collado M, Andrade GM, Pinzon J, Prado CM, Silva LA, Meirelles FV, Pugliesi G, Perecin F, da Silveira JC. Changes in Oviductal Cells and Small Extracellular Vesicles miRNAs in Pregnant Cows. Front Vet Sci 2021; 8:639752. [PMID: 33748215 PMCID: PMC7969882 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.639752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2020] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Early embryonic development occurs in the oviduct, where an ideal microenvironment is provided by the epithelial cells and by the oviductal fluid produced by these cells. The oviductal fluid contains small extracellular vesicles (sEVs), which through their contents, including microRNAs (miRNAs), can ensure proper cell communication between the mother and the embryo. However, little is known about the modulation of miRNAs within oviductal epithelial cells (OECs) and sEVs from the oviductal fluid in pregnant cows. In this study, we evaluate the miRNAs profile in sEVs from the oviductal flushing (OF-sEVs) and OECs from pregnant cows compared to non-pregnant, at 120 h after ovulation induction. In OF-sEVs, eight miRNAs (bta-miR-126-5p, bta-miR-129, bta-miR-140, bta-miR-188, bta-miR-219, bta-miR-345-3p, bta-miR-4523, and bta-miR-760-3p) were up-regulated in pregnant and one miRNA (bta-miR-331-5p) was up-regulated in non-pregnant cows. In OECs, six miRNAs (bta-miR-133b, bta-miR-205, bta-miR-584, bta-miR-551a, bta-miR-1193, and bta-miR-1225-3p) were up-regulated in non-pregnant and none was up-regulated in pregnant cows. Our results suggest that embryonic maternal communication mediated by sEVs initiates in the oviduct, and the passage of gametes and the embryo presence modulate miRNAs contents of sEVs and OECs. Furthermore, we demonstrated the transcriptional levels modulation of selected genes in OECs in pregnant cows. Therefore, the embryonic-maternal crosstalk potentially begins during early embryonic development in the oviduct through the modulation of miRNAs in OECs and sEVs in pregnant cows.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosane Mazzarella
- Molecular Morphology and Development Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, Brazil
| | - Natália Marins Bastos
- Molecular Morphology and Development Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, Brazil
| | - Alessandra Bridi
- Molecular Morphology and Development Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, Brazil
| | - Maite Del Collado
- Molecular Morphology and Development Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, Brazil
| | - Gabriella Mamede Andrade
- Molecular Morphology and Development Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, Brazil
| | - Jorge Pinzon
- Graduate Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, National University of Colombia, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Cibele Maria Prado
- Molecular Morphology and Development Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, Brazil
| | - Luciano Andrade Silva
- Molecular Morphology and Development Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, Brazil
| | - Flávio Vieira Meirelles
- Molecular Morphology and Development Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, Brazil
| | - Guilherme Pugliesi
- Molecular Endocrinology Physiology Laboratory, Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Felipe Perecin
- Molecular Morphology and Development Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, Brazil
| | - Juliano Coelho da Silveira
- Molecular Morphology and Development Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, Brazil
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Timofeeva A, Drapkina Y, Fedorov I, Chagovets V, Makarova N, Shamina M, Kalinina E, Sukhikh G. Small Noncoding RNA Signatures for Determining the Developmental Potential of an Embryo at the Morula Stage. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21249399. [PMID: 33321810 PMCID: PMC7764539 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21249399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2020] [Revised: 12/01/2020] [Accepted: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
As part of the optimization of assisted reproductive technology programs, the aim of the study was to identify key small noncoding RNA (sncRNA) molecules that participate in maternal-to-zygotic transition and determine development potential and competence to form a healthy fetus. Small RNA deep sequencing followed by quantitative real-time RT-PCR was used to profile sncRNAs in 50 samples of spent culture medium from morula with different development potentials (no potential (degradation/developmental arrest), low potential (poor-quality blastocyst), and high potential (good/excellent quality blastocyst capable of implanting and leading to live birth)) obtained from 27 subfertile couples who underwent in vitro fertilization. We have shown that the quality of embryos at the morula stage is determined by secretion/uptake rates of certain sets of piRNAs and miRNAs, namely hsa_piR_011291, hsa_piR_019122, hsa_piR_001311, hsa_piR_015026, hsa_piR_015462, hsa_piR_016735, hsa_piR_019675, hsa_piR_020381, hsa_piR_020485, hsa_piR_004880, hsa_piR_000807, hsa-let-7b-5p, and hsa-let-7i-5p. Predicted gene targets of these sncRNAs included those globally decreased at the 8-cell–morula–blastocyst stage and critical to early embryo development. We show new original data on sncRNA profiling in spent culture medium from morula with different development potential. Our findings provide a view of a more complex network that controls human embryogenesis at the pre-implantation stage. Further research is required using reporter analysis to experimentally confirm interactions between identified sncRNA/gene target pairs.
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Yang A, Huang Y, Zhang Y, Yang K, Wang J, Liu Q. [Expression of pituitary tumor-transforming gene-1 and its pathogenic role in systemic sclerosis]. NAN FANG YI KE DA XUE XUE BAO = JOURNAL OF SOUTHERN MEDICAL UNIVERSITY 2020; 40:1564-1570. [PMID: 33243736 DOI: 10.12122/j.issn.1673-4254.2020.11.05] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the expression of tumor-transforming gene-1 (PTTG1) in systemic sclerosis (SSc) and its role in fibrosis. METHODS Skin biopsy samples were collected from 21 patients with SSc and 22 patients with healthy skin for detecting the mRNA and protein expressions of PTTG1 using real-time PCR (RT-PCR) and immunohistochemistry, respectively. In cultured primary human dermal fibroblasts, PTTG1 expression was knocked down via RNA interference (siRNA), and the mRNA expression levels of PTTG1 and the fibrosis-related genes α-SMA, COL1A1, COL1A2, and COL3A1 were detected using RT-PCR; the proliferation of the cells was assessed using a real-time cell proliferation detection system. RESULTS Compared with those in normal skin samples, the mRNA and protein expressions of PTTG1 increased significantly in the skin tissue of patients with SSc (P < 0.05). In cultured primary skin fibroblasts, the expression of PTTG1 mRNA was positively correlated with those of α-SMA (R2=0.8192, P < 0.05), COL1A1 (R2=0.6398, P < 0.05), COL1A2 (R2=0.316, P < 0.05) and COL3A1 mRNAs (R2=0.3727, P < 0.05). Interference of PTTG1 expression significantly inhibited the cell proliferation, obviously lowered the expressions of fibrosis-related genes, and down-regulated the expression of collagen in the fibroblasts. CONCLUSIONS PTTG1 is highly expressed in skin tissues of patients with SSc, and PTTG1 knockdown can reduce the activity of the dermal fibroblasts, suggesting a close correlation of PTTG1 with fibrosis in SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anqiao Yang
- School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Yan Huang
- School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Yuting Zhang
- School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Kai Yang
- Department of Dermatology, Jing'an District Central Hospital, Shanghai 200040, China
| | - Jiucun Wang
- School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Qingmei Liu
- Department of Dermatology, Huashan Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
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da Silva LFI, Da Broi MG, da Luz CM, da Silva LECM, Ferriani RA, Meola J, Navarro PA. miR-532-3p: a possible altered miRNA in cumulus cells of infertile women with advanced endometriosis. Reprod Biomed Online 2020; 42:579-588. [PMID: 33358886 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2020.10.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Revised: 10/14/2020] [Accepted: 10/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Is the profile of microRNA (miRNA) altered in cumulus cells of infertile women with early (EI/II) and advanced (EIII/IV) endometriosis? DESIGN In this prospective case-control study, a miRNA profile including 754 targets was evaluated in samples of cumulus cells from infertile women with endometriosis (5 EI/II, 5 EIII/IV) and infertile controls (5, male and/or tubal factor) undergoing ovarian stimulation for intracytoplasmic sperm injection, using TaqMan® Array Human MicroRNA Cards A and B. The groups were compared with Kruskal-Wallis test, followed by Benjamini-Hochberg correction and Dunn's post hoc test. An in silico enrichment analysis was performed to list the possibly altered pathways in which the altered miRNA target genes are involved. RESULTS Only the miRNA miR-532-3p showed significant differences among the analysed groups, being down-regulated in the EIII/IV group compared with the infertile control group, as well as compared with the EI/II group. The enrichment analysis showed that some genes regulated by this miRNA are involved in important pathways for the acquisition of oocyte competence, such as the oxytocin, calcium, Wnt, FoxO, ErbB and Ras signalling pathways, as well as the oocyte meiosis pathway. CONCLUSION The present findings bring new perspectives to understanding the follicular microenvironment of infertile women with different stages of endometriosis. It is suggested that the dysregulation of miR-532-3p may be a potential mechanism involved in the aetiopathogenesis of endometriosis-related infertility. Further studies are needed to evaluate these pathways in cumulus cells of infertile women with the disease, as well as their impact on the acquisition of oocyte competence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liliane Fabio Isidoro da Silva
- Division of Human Reproduction, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto - USP, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Michele Gomes Da Broi
- Division of Human Reproduction, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto - USP, São Paulo, Brazil; National Institute of Hormones and Women's Health - CNPq, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Caroline Mantovani da Luz
- Division of Human Reproduction, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto - USP, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Lilian Eslaine Costa Mendes da Silva
- Division of Human Reproduction, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto - USP, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Rui Alberto Ferriani
- Division of Human Reproduction, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto - USP, São Paulo, Brazil; National Institute of Hormones and Women's Health - CNPq, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Juliana Meola
- Division of Human Reproduction, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto - USP, São Paulo, Brazil; National Institute of Hormones and Women's Health - CNPq, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Paula Andrea Navarro
- Division of Human Reproduction, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto - USP, São Paulo, Brazil; National Institute of Hormones and Women's Health - CNPq, Porto Alegre, Brazil.
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Zhang Q, Ni T, Dang Y, Ding L, Jiang J, Li J, Xia M, Yu N, Ma J, Yan J, Chen ZJ. MiR-148a-3p may contribute to flawed decidualization in recurrent implantation failure by modulating HOXC8. J Assist Reprod Genet 2020; 37:2535-2544. [PMID: 32772270 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-020-01900-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2020] [Accepted: 07/21/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate whether miR-148a-3p overexpression is associated with disrupted decidualization of recurrent implantation failure (RIF). METHODS Endometrial miRNA and mRNA expression profiles during the implantation window derived from women with and without RIF were identified using microarray and RT-qPCR. Immortalized human endometrial stromal cells (HESCs) were cultured for proliferation and in vitro decidualization assays after enhancing miR-148a-3p expression or inhibiting putative target gene homeobox C8 (HOXC8) expression. RT-qPCR, western blot, and luciferase reporter assays were used to confirm the relationship between miR-148a-3p and HOXC8 gene. RESULTS MiR-148a-3p was significantly upregulated in RIF endometrial tissues. Forced expression of miR-148a-3p notably attenuated HESC in vitro decidualization. Mechanistic studies revealed that miR-148a-3p directly bounds to the HOXC8 3' untranslated region (3'UTR) and suppressed HOXC8 expressions in both mRNA and protein levels. Further investigations demonstrated that inhibition of HOXC8 in HESCs induced similar effects on decidual process as those induced by miR-148a-3p overexpression. CONCLUSION Taken together, our findings suggested that elevated miR-148a-3p might account for flawed decidualization in RIF by negatively regulating HOXC8, raising the possibility that miR-148a-3p might be a novel therapeutic target in RIF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, No. 157 Jingliu Road, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,Shandong Provincial Clinical Medicine Research Center for Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Tianxiang Ni
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, No. 157 Jingliu Road, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,Shandong Provincial Clinical Medicine Research Center for Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Yujie Dang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, No. 157 Jingliu Road, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,Shandong Provincial Clinical Medicine Research Center for Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Lingling Ding
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, No. 157 Jingliu Road, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,Shandong Provincial Clinical Medicine Research Center for Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Jingjing Jiang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, No. 157 Jingliu Road, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,Shandong Provincial Clinical Medicine Research Center for Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Jing Li
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, No. 157 Jingliu Road, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,Shandong Provincial Clinical Medicine Research Center for Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Mingdi Xia
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, No. 157 Jingliu Road, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,Shandong Provincial Clinical Medicine Research Center for Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Na Yu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, No. 157 Jingliu Road, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,Shandong Provincial Clinical Medicine Research Center for Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Jinlong Ma
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, No. 157 Jingliu Road, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,Shandong Provincial Clinical Medicine Research Center for Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Junhao Yan
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, No. 157 Jingliu Road, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China. .,National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China. .,Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China. .,Shandong Provincial Clinical Medicine Research Center for Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.
| | - Zi-Jiang Chen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, No. 157 Jingliu Road, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,Shandong Provincial Clinical Medicine Research Center for Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetic, Shanghai, 200127, China.,Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200127, China
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Epigenetic Landscape Changes Due to Acupuncture Treatment: From Clinical to Basic Research. Chin J Integr Med 2020; 26:633-640. [PMID: 32761339 DOI: 10.1007/s11655-020-2852-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/01/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Acupuncture has been widely used for treating diseases since the ancient days in China, but the mechanism by which acupuncture exerts such powerful roles is unclear. Epigenetics, including DNA methylation, histone modification, and post-transcriptional regulation of miRNAs, is the study of heritable changes in gene expression that do not include DNA sequence alterations. Epigenetics has become a new strategy for the basic and clinical research of acupuncture in the last decade. Some investigators have been trying to illustrate the mechanism of acupuncture from an epigenetics perspective, which has shed new lights on the mechanisms and applications of acupuncture. Moreover, the introduction of epigenetics into the regulatory mechanism in acupuncture treatment has provided more objective and scientific support for acupuncture theories and brought new opportunities for the improvement of acupuncture studies. In this paper, we reviewed the literatures that has demonstrated that acupuncture could directly or indirectly affect epigenetics, in order to highlight the progress of acupuncture studies correlated to epigenetic regulations. We do have to disclose that the current evidence in this review is not enough to cover all the complex interactions between multiple epigenetic modifications and their regulations. However, the up-to-date results can help us to better understand acupuncture's clinical applications and laboratory research.
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Qasemi M, Amidi F. Extracellular microRNA profiling in human follicular fluid: new biomarkers in female reproductive potential. J Assist Reprod Genet 2020; 37:1769-1780. [PMID: 32642870 PMCID: PMC7468023 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-020-01860-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2020] [Accepted: 06/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small, about 22 nucleotides, non-coding RNAs which regulate a wide range of gene expression during post-transcriptional stage. They are released into intra- and extracellular microenvironments and play vital roles in different physiological and pathological pathways. Due to easy accessibility, detection of extracellular miRNAs in body fluids, e.g. serum, plasma, cerebrospinal fluid, and follicular fluid, has been explored in recent years. Since miRNAs are stable at unsuitable conditions, scientists have been investigating to use them as biomarkers in different fields of medicines. It goes without saying that experienced biomarkers would be required in reproductive medicine as well. Biomarkers can help clinicians and embryologists to diagnose disorders and assess the embryo quality via molecular pattern which is more reliable than nowadays routine methods. Follicular fluid as a noninvasive fluid in assisted reproductive techniques (ART) has attracted researchers as a rich pool for biomarkers, and miRNAs are not exception. Although miRNA biomarkers in reproduction field are located on their initial stage and there is a long path to move forward, several meticulous studies have been performed and discovered their associations with various conditions. In this regard, we summarize the reported miRNAs in follicular fluid and their correlations with female infertility and ART success rate, while subsequent investigations are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Qasemi
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fardin Amidi
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
- Department of Infertility, Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Bauersachs S, Almiñana C. Embryo-Maternal Interactions Underlying Reproduction in Mammals. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21144872. [PMID: 32664189 PMCID: PMC7402305 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21144872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2020] [Accepted: 07/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
This Special Issue, “Embryo-Maternal Interactions Underlying Reproduction in Mammals”, gathers a collection of 23 articles, 16 original research articles and 7 up-to-date reviews, providing new findings or summarizing current knowledge on embryo–maternal interactions in seven different mammalian species including humans. Considering the different players involved in these embryo-maternal interactions, articles are mainly focused on one of these different players: the oviduct, the uterus, the embryo or the emergent extracellular vesicles. Additionally, a few articles bring up the impact of reproductive, but also non-reproductive, diseases, as well as stress factors, on the establishment of pregnancy. We hope the readers enjoy this collection of articles and that the knowledge assembled here will support and inspire current and future research investigations. We would like to thank all authors for their contributions to this Special Issue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Bauersachs
- Functional Genomics, Institute of Veterinary Anatomy, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, 8315 Lindau (ZH), Switzerland
- Correspondence: (S.B.); (C.A.)
| | - Carmen Almiñana
- Functional Genomics, Institute of Veterinary Anatomy, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, 8315 Lindau (ZH), Switzerland
- UMR85 PRC, INRAE, CNRS 7247, Université de Tours, IFCE, 37380 Nouzilly, France
- Correspondence: (S.B.); (C.A.)
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