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Yang C, Yang H, Kim H, Chung N, Shin J, Min H, Lee K, Lee JR. Injectable Biomimetic Hydrogel Constructs for Cell-Based Menopausal Hormone Therapy with Reduced Breast Cancer Potential. Biomater Res 2024; 28:0054. [PMID: 39135549 PMCID: PMC11310713 DOI: 10.34133/bmr.0054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) has been a primary method in menopausal women and patients with ablated ovaries, but safety has been a concern. Cell-based HRT has emerged as an alternative approach without side effects causing pharmaceutical HRT via 3-dimensionally engineered constructs layering ovarian hormone-producing cells. In this study, we applied micro-sized ovarian cell-laden hydrogel beads as an approach to cell-based HRT using a minimally invasive method in the menopausal rat model. Here, we constructed GC/TC-laden microbeads (GTBs; GC, granulosa cell; TC, theca cell) that allow crosstalk between endocrine cells, encapsulating multiple beads for the figuration of the original ovary. We assessed the ovarian hormone production function of GTB through in vitro culture for 90 days. We applied it to a menopausal rat model and confirmed that GTB-injected rats restored their endocrine function, leading to the regeneration of the thinned endometrium and the maintenance of regular estrous cycles in some individuals. Additionally, it was observed to alleviate menopausal symptoms, including body weight gain and osteoporosis. Notably, the GTB-injected rats did not show mammary gland hyperplasia observed in the pharmaceutical HRT groups and exhibited fewer p53- and KI67-positive and an increase in phosphatase and tensin homolog-positive mammary gland epithelial cells compared to pharmaceutical hormone-treated rats. These results suggest that GTB-based HRT could present a lower risk of breast cancer compared to conventional pharmaceutical-HRT use. Our study highlights the potential of cell-based HRT using an injectable artificial ovary, offering a safer alternative for women requiring HRT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chungmo Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology,
Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam 13620, Republic of Korea
- Program in Nanoscience and Technology, Graduate School of Convergence Science and Technology,
Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Heeseon Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology,
Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam 13620, Republic of Korea
- Department of Translational Medicine, College of Medicine,
Seoul National University, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyerim Kim
- Program in Nanoscience and Technology, Graduate School of Convergence Science and Technology,
Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Nanum Chung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology,
Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam 13620, Republic of Korea
- Department of Translational Medicine, College of Medicine,
Seoul National University, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Jungwoo Shin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology,
Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam 13620, Republic of Korea
- Department of Translational Medicine, College of Medicine,
Seoul National University, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyewon Min
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology,
Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam 13620, Republic of Korea
- Department of Translational Medicine, College of Medicine,
Seoul National University, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Kangwon Lee
- Department of Applied Bioengineering, Graduate School of Convergence Science and Technology,
Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
- Research Institute for Convergence Science,
Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung Ryeol Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology,
Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam 13620, Republic of Korea
- Department of Translational Medicine, College of Medicine,
Seoul National University, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology,
Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
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2
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Zeng Y, Wang C, Yang C, Shan X, Meng XQ, Zhang M. Unveiling the role of chronic inflammation in ovarian aging: insights into mechanisms and clinical implications. Hum Reprod 2024; 39:1599-1607. [PMID: 38906835 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deae132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2023] [Revised: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Ovarian aging, a natural process in women and various other female mammals as they age, is characterized by a decline in ovarian function and fertility due to a reduction in oocyte reserve and quality. This phenomenon is believed to result from a combination of genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors. While these factors collectively contribute to the shaping of ovarian aging, the substantial impact and intricate interplay of chronic inflammation in this process have been somewhat overlooked in discussions. Chronic inflammation, a prolonged and sustained inflammatory response persisting over an extended period, can exert detrimental effects on tissues and organs. This review delves into the novel hallmark of aging-chronic inflammation-to further emphasize the primary characteristics of ovarian aging. It endeavors to explore not only the clinical symptoms but also the underlying mechanisms associated with this complex process. By shining a spotlight on chronic inflammation, the aim is to broaden our understanding of the multifaceted aspects of ovarian aging and its potential clinical implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yutian Zeng
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu Campus, Chengdu, China
| | - Chun Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu Campus, Chengdu, China
| | - Cuiting Yang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu Campus, Chengdu, China
| | - Xudong Shan
- Genital Medicine Center, The Third People's Hospital of Cheng, Sichuan, China
| | - Xiang-Qian Meng
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Sichuan Jinxin Xinan Woman & Children Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Ming Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu Campus, Chengdu, China
- Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-Omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
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3
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Feng Y, Zheng H, Yin C, Liang D, Zhang S, Chen J, Mai F, Lan Z, Zhu M, Mai Z, Shen S, Jayawardana T, Wu R, Tang W, Zhang R, He X, Zheng S, Hu Q, Han Y, Yang Y, Gong S, Wang Z, El-Omar EM, Luo W, Chen X, Chen G, Li P, Chen X. β-resorcylic acid released by Limosilactobacillusreuteri protects against cisplatin-induced ovarian toxicity and infertility. Cell Rep Med 2024:101678. [PMID: 39096912 DOI: 10.1016/j.xcrm.2024.101678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2024] [Revised: 06/07/2024] [Accepted: 07/11/2024] [Indexed: 08/05/2024]
Abstract
Chemotherapy-induced premature ovarian insufficiency (CIPOI) triggers gonadotoxicity in women undergoing cancer treatment, leading to loss of ovarian reserves and subfertility, with no effective therapies available. In our study, fecal microbiota transplantation in a cisplatin-induced POI mouse model reveals that a dysbiotic gut microbiome negatively impacts ovarian health in CIPOI. Multi-omics analyses show a significant decrease in Limosilactobacillus reuteri and its catabolite, β-resorcylic acid , in the CIPOI group in comparison to healthy controls. Supplementation with L. reuteri or β-RA mitigates cisplatin-induced hormonal disruptions, morphological damages, and reductions in follicular reserve. Most importantly, β-RA pre-treatment effectively preserves oocyte function, embryonic development, and fetus health, thereby protecting against chemotherapy-induced subfertility. Our results provide evidence that β-RA suppresses the nuclear accumulation of sex-determining region Y-box 7, which in turn reduces Bcl-2-associated X activation and inhibits granulosa cell apoptosis. These findings highlight the therapeutic potential of targeting the gut-ovary axis for fertility preservation in CIPOI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yinglin Feng
- Central Laboratory of the Medical Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang Province, China; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang Province, China; Department of Obstetrics, Affiliated Foshan Maternity & Child Healthcare Hospital, Southern Medical University, Foshan, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Huimin Zheng
- Central Laboratory of the Medical Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Chunhua Yin
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Dong Liang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First People's Hospital of Foshan, Foshan, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Siyou Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First People's Hospital of Foshan, Foshan, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Jingrui Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First People's Hospital of Foshan, Foshan, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Feihong Mai
- Institute of Ecological Science, School of Life Science, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Zixin Lan
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Menglin Zhu
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Zhensheng Mai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First People's Hospital of Foshan, Foshan, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Sj Shen
- UNSW Microbiome Research Centre, St George and Sutherland Clinical Campuses, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Thisun Jayawardana
- UNSW Microbiome Research Centre, St George and Sutherland Clinical Campuses, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Rong Wu
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wenli Tang
- Central Laboratory of the Medical Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Renfang Zhang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Xiaoyun He
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Shanshan Zheng
- Health Medical Center, The First People's Hospital of Foshan, Foshan, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Qian Hu
- Institute of Translational Medicine, The First People's Hospital of Foshan, Foshan, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Yubin Han
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First People's Hospital of Foshan, Foshan, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Yuanhao Yang
- Mater Research Institute, The University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, QLD 4102, Australia; Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Shenhai Gong
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhang Wang
- Institute of Ecological Science, School of Life Science, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Emad M El-Omar
- UNSW Microbiome Research Centre, St George and Sutherland Clinical Campuses, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Wei Luo
- Institute of Translational Medicine, The First People's Hospital of Foshan, Foshan, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Xueqin Chen
- Central Laboratory of the Medical Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang Province, China; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang Province, China.
| | - Guoqiang Chen
- Institute of Translational Medicine, The First People's Hospital of Foshan, Foshan, Guangdong Province, China.
| | - Pan Li
- UNSW Microbiome Research Centre, St George and Sutherland Clinical Campuses, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
| | - Xia Chen
- Central Laboratory of the Medical Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang Province, China; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang Province, China.
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4
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Hamed M, Kotob MH, Abou Khalil NS, Anwari EA, El Gazzar WB, Idriss SKA, Fakhry ME, Farag AA, Sabra MS, Salaah SM, Abdel-Zaher S, Yehia Saad FA, Naguib M, Lee JS, Sayed AEDH. Hyaluronic acid impacts hematological endpoints and spleen histological features in African catfish (Clarias gariepinus). BMC Vet Res 2024; 20:294. [PMID: 38970005 PMCID: PMC11225171 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-024-04113-9] [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: 03/08/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Since its identification in the vitreous humour of the eye and laboratory biosynthesis, hyaluronic acid (HA) has been a vital component in several pharmaceutical, nutritional, medicinal, and cosmetic uses. However, little is known about its potential toxicological impacts on aquatic inhabitants. Herein, we investigated the hematological response of Clarias gariepinus to nominal doses of HA. To achieve this objective, 72 adult fish were randomly and evenly distributed into four groups: control, low-dose (0.5 mg/l HA), medium-dose (10 mg/l HA), and high-dose (100 mg/l HA) groups for two weeks each during both the exposure and recovery periods. The findings confirmed presence of anemia, neutrophilia, leucopoenia, lymphopenia, and eosinophilia at the end of exposure to HA. In addition, poikilocytosis and a variety of cytomorphological disturbances were observed. Dose-dependent histological alterations in spleen morphology were observed in the exposed groups. After HA removal from the aquarium for 2 weeks, the groups exposed to the two highest doses still exhibited a notable decline in red blood cell count, hemoglobin concentration, mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration, and an increase in mean corpuscular volume. Additionally, there was a significant rise in neutrophils, eosinophils, cell alterations, and nuclear abnormalities percentages, along with a decrease in monocytes, coupled with a dose-dependent decrease in lymphocytes. Furthermore, only the highest dose of HA in the recovered groups continued to cause a significant increase in white blood cells. White blood cells remained lower, and the proportion of apoptotic RBCs remained higher in the high-dose group. The persistence of most of the haematological and histological disorders even after recovery period indicates a failure of physiological compensatory mechanisms to overcome the HA-associated problems or insufficient duration of recovery. Thus, these findings encourage the inclusion of this new hazardous agent in the biomonitoring program and provide a specific pattern of hematological profile in HA-challenged fish. Further experiments are highly warranted to explore other toxicological hazards of HA using dose/time window protocols.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Hamed
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Al-Azhar University (Assiut Branch), Assiut, 71524, Egypt
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Skip Bertman Drive, Baton Rouge, LA, 70803, USA
| | - Mohamed H Kotob
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, 71526, Egypt
- Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Vienna, Vienna, 1090, Austria
| | - Nasser S Abou Khalil
- Department of Animal Physiology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Badr University, Assuit, Egypt
- Department of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Assuit University, Assiut, 71516, Egypt
| | - Esraa A Anwari
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Assiut University, Assiut, 71516, Egypt
| | - Walaa Bayoumie El Gazzar
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, the Hashemite University, Zarqa, 13133, Jordan
- 9Department of Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, Benha City, 13518, Egypt
| | - Shaimaa K A Idriss
- Department of Aquatic Animal Medicine and Management, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, 71516, Egypt
| | - Michel E Fakhry
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and molecular biology, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, 71516, Egypt
| | - Amina A Farag
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, Benha City, 13518, Egypt
| | - Mahmoud S Sabra
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, 71516, Egypt
| | - Sally M Salaah
- Fresh Water Division, National Institute of Oceanography and Fisheries, NIOF, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Souzan Abdel-Zaher
- Department of Molecular Biology, Molecular Biology Research & Studies Institute, Assiut University, Assiut, 71516, Egypt
| | - Fatma Alzahraa Yehia Saad
- Department of Biotechnology, Molecular Biology Research & Studies Institute, Assiut University, Assiut, 71516, Egypt
| | - Mervat Naguib
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Assiut University, Assiut, 71516, Egypt
| | - Jae-Seong Lee
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, South Korea
| | - Alaa El-Din H Sayed
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Assiut University, Assiut, 71516, Egypt.
- Department of Molecular Biology, Molecular Biology Research & Studies Institute, Assiut University, Assiut, 71516, Egypt.
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Amargant F, Vieira C, Pritchard MT, Duncan FE. Systemic low-dose anti-fibrotic treatment attenuates ovarian aging in the mouse. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.06.21.600035. [PMID: 38979191 PMCID: PMC11230292 DOI: 10.1101/2024.06.21.600035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/10/2024]
Abstract
The female reproductive system is one of the first to age in humans, resulting in infertility and endocrine disruptions. The aging ovary assumes a fibro-inflammatory milieu which negatively impacts gamete quantity and quality as well as ovulation. Here we tested whether the systemic delivery of anti-inflammatory (Etanercept) or anti-fibrotic (Pirfenidone) drugs attenuates ovarian aging in mice. We first evaluated the ability of these drugs to decrease the expression of fibro-inflammatory genes in primary ovarian stromal cells. Whereas Etanercept did not block Tnf expression in ovarian stromal cells, Pirfenidone significantly reduced Col1a1 expression. We then tested Pirfenidone in vivo where the drug was delivered systemically via mini-osmotic pumps for 6-weeks. Pirfenidone mitigated the age-dependent increase in ovarian fibrosis without impacting overall health parameters. Ovarian function was improved in Pirfenidone-treated mice as evidenced by increased follicle and corpora lutea number, AMH levels, and improved estrous cyclicity. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that Pirfenidone treatment resulted in an upregulation of reproductive function-related genes at 8.5 months and a downregulation of inflammatory genes at 12 months of age. These findings demonstrate that reducing the fibroinflammatory ovarian microenvironment improves ovarian function, thereby supporting modulating the ovarian environment as a therapeutic avenue to extend reproductive longevity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farners Amargant
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Carol Vieira
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Michele T Pritchard
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Therapeutics and Institute for Reproductive and Developmental Sciences University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA
| | - Francesca E Duncan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
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6
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Zhang Z, Huang L, Brayboy L, Birrer M. Single-cell analysis of ovarian myeloid cells identifies aging associated changes in macrophages and signaling dynamics. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.06.13.598667. [PMID: 38915572 PMCID: PMC11195259 DOI: 10.1101/2024.06.13.598667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/26/2024]
Abstract
The aging of mammalian ovary is accompanied by an increase in tissue fibrosis and heightened inflammation. Myeloid cells, including macrophages, monocytes, dendritic cells, and neutrophils, play pivotal roles in shaping the ovarian tissue microenvironment and regulating inflammatory responses. However, a comprehensive understanding of the roles of these cells in the ovarian aging process is lacking. To bridge this knowledge gap, we utilized single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNAseq) and flow cytometry analysis to functionally characterize CD45+ CD11b+ myeloid cell populations in young (3 months old) and aged (14-17 months old) murine ovaries. Our dataset unveiled the presence of five ovarian macrophage subsets, including a Cx3cr1 low Cd81 hi subset unique to the aged murine ovary. Most notably, our data revealed significant alterations in ANNEXIN and TGFβ signaling within aged ovarian myeloid cells, which suggest a novel mechanism contributing to the onset and progression of aging-associated inflammation and fibrosis in the ovarian tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zijing Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR
- Winthrop P Rockefeller Cancer Institute, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR
| | - Lu Huang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR
| | - Lynae Brayboy
- Department of Neuropediatrics Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Michael Birrer
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR
- Winthrop P Rockefeller Cancer Institute, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR
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He S, Li H, Zhang Q, Zhao W, Li W, Dai C, Li B, Cheng J, Wu S, Zhou Z, Yang J, Li S. Berberine alleviates inflammation in polycystic ovary syndrome by inhibiting hyaluronan synthase 2 expression. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 128:155456. [PMID: 38537446 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2024.155456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 02/03/2024] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a heterogeneous metabolic and endocrine disorder that causes anovulatory infertility and abnormal folliculogenesis in women of reproductive age. Several studies have revealed inflammation in PCOS follicles, and recent evidence suggests that Berberine (BBR) effectively reduces inflammatory responses in PCOS, however, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. PURPOSE To determine the underlying mechanisms by which BBR alleviates inflammation in PCOS. STUDY DESIGN Primary human GCs from healthy women and women with PCOS, and KGN cells were used for in vitro studies. ICR mice were used for in vivo studies. METHODS Gene expression was measured using RT-qPCR. HAS2, inflammatory cytokines, and serum hormones were assayed by ELISA. Protein expression profiles were assayed by Western blot. Chronic low-grade inflammatory mouse models were developed by intraperitoneal injection with LPS, and PCOS mouse models were established by subcutaneous intraperitoneal injection of DHEA. BBR and 4-MU were administered by gavage. Ovarian morphologic changes were evaluated using H&E staining. HAS2 expression in the ovary was assayed using Western blot and immunohistochemistry. RESULTS Our results confirmed that HAS2 expression and hyaluronan (HA) accumulation are closely associated with inflammatory responses in PCOS. Data obtained from in vitro studies showed that HAS2 and inflammatory genes (e.g., MCP-1, IL-1β, and IL-6) are significantly upregulated in PCOS samples and LPS-induced KGN cells compared to their control groups. In addition, these effects were reversed by blocking HAS2 expression or HA synthesis using BBR or 4-MU, respectively. Furthermore, HAS2 overexpression induces the expression of inflammatory genes in PCOS. These results were further confirmed in LPS- and DHEA-induced mouse models, where inflammatory genes were reduced by BBR or 4-MU, and ovarian morphology was restored. CONCLUSIONS Our results define previously unknown links between HAS2 and chronic low-grade inflammation in the follicles of women with PCOS. BBR exerts its anti-inflammatory effects by down-regulating HAS2. This study provides a novel therapeutic target for alleviating ovarian inflammation in women with PCOS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaojing He
- Reproductive Medical Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Jiefang Road 238, Wuhan, 430060, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Food Quality and Safety-State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base of Ministry of Science and Technology, Institute of Animal Science, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing, 210014, China
| | - Hui Li
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Food Quality and Safety-State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base of Ministry of Science and Technology, Institute of Animal Science, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing, 210014, China; Jiangsu Provincial Engineering Research Center for Precision Animal Breeding, Nanjing, 210014, China
| | - Qianjie Zhang
- Reproductive Medical Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Jiefang Road 238, Wuhan, 430060, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Food Quality and Safety-State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base of Ministry of Science and Technology, Institute of Animal Science, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing, 210014, China
| | - Weimin Zhao
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Food Quality and Safety-State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base of Ministry of Science and Technology, Institute of Animal Science, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing, 210014, China; Jiangsu Provincial Engineering Research Center for Precision Animal Breeding, Nanjing, 210014, China
| | - Wei Li
- Reproductive Medical Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Jiefang Road 238, Wuhan, 430060, China
| | - Chaohui Dai
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Food Quality and Safety-State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base of Ministry of Science and Technology, Institute of Animal Science, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing, 210014, China; Jiangsu Provincial Engineering Research Center for Precision Animal Breeding, Nanjing, 210014, China
| | - Bixia Li
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Food Quality and Safety-State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base of Ministry of Science and Technology, Institute of Animal Science, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing, 210014, China; Jiangsu Provincial Engineering Research Center for Precision Animal Breeding, Nanjing, 210014, China
| | - Jinhua Cheng
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Food Quality and Safety-State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base of Ministry of Science and Technology, Institute of Animal Science, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing, 210014, China; Jiangsu Provincial Engineering Research Center for Precision Animal Breeding, Nanjing, 210014, China
| | - Shuang Wu
- Hubei Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Hubei University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, 430060, China
| | - Zhongming Zhou
- Hubei Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Hubei University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, 430060, China
| | - Jing Yang
- Reproductive Medical Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Jiefang Road 238, Wuhan, 430060, China
| | - Saijiao Li
- Reproductive Medical Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Jiefang Road 238, Wuhan, 430060, China.
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8
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Ñaupas LVS, Gomes FDR, Ferreira ACA, Morais SM, Alves DR, Teixeira DIA, Alves BG, Watanabe Y, Figueiredo JR, Tetaping GM, Rodrigues APR. Alpha lipoic acid controls degeneration and ensures follicular development in ovine ovarian tissue cultured in vitro. Theriogenology 2024; 225:55-66. [PMID: 38795511 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2024.05.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2023] [Revised: 05/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/28/2024]
Abstract
This study aims to evaluate the effects of adding alpha lipoic acid (ALA) to the in vitro ovarian tissue culture medium, either fresh or after vitrification/warming. For this purpose, 10 ovaries from five adult sheep were used. Each pair of ovaries gave rise to 16 fragments and were randomly distributed into two groups: fresh (n = 8) and vitrified (n = 8). Two fresh fragments were fixed immediately and considered the control, while another six were cultured in vitro for 14 days in the absence; presence of a constant (100 μM/0-14 day) or dynamic (50 μM/day 0-7 and 100 μM/day 8-14) concentration of ALA. As for the vitrified fragments, two were fixed and the other six were cultured in vitro under the same conditions described for the fresh group. All the fragments were subjected to morphological evaluation, follicular development and stromal density (classical histology), DNA fragmentation (TUNEL), senescence (Sudan Black), fibrosis (Masson's Trichome), and endoplasmic reticulum stress (immunofluorescence). Measurements of the antioxidant capacity against the free radicals 2,2'-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl-hydrate (DPPH) and estradiol (E2) levels in the culture medium was performed. The results showed that in the absence of ALA, in vitro culture of vitrified ovarian fragments showed a significant reduction (P < 0.05) in follicular morphology and increased the presence of senescence and tissue fibrosis (P < 0.05). Dynamic ALA maintained E2 levels unchanged (P > 0.05) until the end of vitrified ovarian tissue culture and controlled the levels of ABTS and DPPH radicals in fresh or vitrified cultures. Therefore, it is concluded that ALA should be added to the vitrified ovarian tissue in vitro culture medium to reduce the damage that leads to loss of ovarian function. To ensure steroidogenesis during in vitro culture, ALA should be added dynamically (different concentrations throughout culture).
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Affiliation(s)
- L V S Ñaupas
- Laboratory of Manipulation of Oocytes and Ovarian Pre-Antral Follicles, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, State University of Ceará, Fortaleza, CE, Brazil
| | - F D R Gomes
- Laboratory of Manipulation of Oocytes and Ovarian Pre-Antral Follicles, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, State University of Ceará, Fortaleza, CE, Brazil
| | - A C A Ferreira
- Laboratory of Manipulation of Oocytes and Ovarian Pre-Antral Follicles, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, State University of Ceará, Fortaleza, CE, Brazil
| | - S M Morais
- Laboratory of Natural Products Chemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, State University of Ceará, Fortaleza, CE, Brazil
| | - D R Alves
- Laboratory of Natural Products Chemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, State University of Ceará, Fortaleza, CE, Brazil
| | - D I A Teixeira
- Laboratory of Image Diagnosis Applied to Animal Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, State University of Ceará, Fortaleza, E, Brazil
| | - B G Alves
- Ovid Research Company, Berkeley, CA, United States
| | - Y Watanabe
- Vitrogen YVF Biotech, Cravinhos, SP, Brazil
| | - J R Figueiredo
- Laboratory of Manipulation of Oocytes and Ovarian Pre-Antral Follicles, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, State University of Ceará, Fortaleza, CE, Brazil
| | - G M Tetaping
- Laboratory of Manipulation of Oocytes and Ovarian Pre-Antral Follicles, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, State University of Ceará, Fortaleza, CE, Brazil
| | - A P R Rodrigues
- Laboratory of Manipulation of Oocytes and Ovarian Pre-Antral Follicles, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, State University of Ceará, Fortaleza, CE, Brazil.
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9
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Shen L, Liu J, Luo A, Wang S. The stromal microenvironment and ovarian aging: mechanisms and therapeutic opportunities. J Ovarian Res 2023; 16:237. [PMID: 38093329 PMCID: PMC10717903 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-023-01300-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
For decades, most studies of ovarian aging have focused on its functional units, known as follicles, which include oocytes and granulosa cells. However, in the ovarian stroma, there are a variety of somatic components that bridge the gap between general aging and ovarian senescence. Physiologically, general cell types, microvascular structures, extracellular matrix, and intercellular molecules affect folliculogenesis and corpus luteum physiology alongside the ovarian cycle. As a result of damage caused by age-related metabolite accumulation and external insults, the microenvironment of stromal cells is progressively remodeled, thus inevitably perturbing ovarian physiology. With the established platforms for follicle cryopreservation and in vitro maturation and the development of organoid research, it is desirable to develop strategies to improve the microenvironment of the follicle by targeting the perifollicular environment. In this review, we summarize the role of stromal components in ovarian aging, describing their age-related alterations and associated effects. Moreover, we list some potential techniques that may mitigate ovarian aging based on their effect on the stromal microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Shen
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Junfeng Liu
- Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Aiyue Luo
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
| | - Shixuan Wang
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
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10
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Tang M, Zhao M, Shi Y. New insight into the role of macrophages in ovarian function and ovarian aging. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1282658. [PMID: 38027176 PMCID: PMC10662485 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1282658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Macrophages (MΦs) are the most abundant leukocytes in mammalian ovaries that have heterogeneity and plasticity. A body of evidence has indicated that these cells are important in maintaining ovarian homeostasis and they play critical roles in ovarian physiological events, such as folliculogenesis, ovulation, corpus luteum formation and regression. As females age, ovarian tissue microenvironment is typified by chronic inflammation with exacerbated ovarian fibrosis. In response to specific danger signals within aged ovaries, macrophages polarize into different M1 or M2 phenotypes, and specialize in unique functions to participate in the ovarian aging process. In this review, we will focus on the physiologic roles of MΦs in normal ovarian functions. Furthermore, we will discuss the roles of MΦs in the process of ovarian senescence, as well as the novel techniques applied in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maoxing Tang
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Manzhi Zhao
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuhua Shi
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
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11
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Babayev E, Suebthawinkul C, Gokyer D, Parkes WS, Rivas F, Pavone ME, Hall AR, Pritchard MT, Duncan FE. Cumulus expansion is impaired with advanced reproductive age due to loss of matrix integrity and reduced hyaluronan. Aging Cell 2023; 22:e14004. [PMID: 37850336 PMCID: PMC10652338 DOI: 10.1111/acel.14004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2023] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Reproductive aging is associated with ovulatory defects. Age-related ovarian fibrosis partially contributes to this phenotype as short-term treatment with anti-fibrotic compounds improves ovulation in reproductively old mice. However, age-dependent changes that are intrinsic to the follicle may also be relevant. In this study, we used a mouse model to demonstrate that reproductive aging is associated with impaired cumulus expansion which is accompanied by altered morphokinetic behavior of cumulus cells as assessed by time-lapse microscopy. The extracellular matrix integrity of expanded cumulus-oocyte complexes is compromised with advanced age as evidenced by increased penetration of fluorescent nanoparticles in a particle exclusion assay and larger open spaces on scanning electron microscopy. Reduced hyaluronan (HA) levels, decreased expression of genes encoding HA-associated proteins (e.g., Ptx3 and Tnfaip6), and increased expression of inflammatory genes and matrix metalloproteinases underlie this loss of matrix integrity. Importantly, HA levels are decreased with age in follicular fluid of women, indicative of conserved reproductive aging mechanisms. These findings provide novel mechanistic insights into how defects in cumulus expansion contribute to age-related infertility and may serve as a target to extend reproductive longevity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elnur Babayev
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of MedicineNorthwestern UniversityChicagoIllinoisUSA
| | - Chanakarn Suebthawinkul
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of MedicineNorthwestern UniversityChicagoIllinoisUSA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of MedicineChulalongkorn UniversityBangkokThailand
| | - Dilan Gokyer
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of MedicineNorthwestern UniversityChicagoIllinoisUSA
| | - Wendena S. Parkes
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology, & Therapeutics, Institute for Reproductive and Developmental SciencesUniversity of Kansas Medical CenterKansas CityKansasUSA
| | - Felipe Rivas
- Virginia Tech‐Wake Forest University School of Biomedical Engineering and SciencesWake Forest School of MedicineWinston‐SalemNorth CarolinaUSA
| | - Mary Ellen Pavone
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of MedicineNorthwestern UniversityChicagoIllinoisUSA
| | - Adam R. Hall
- Virginia Tech‐Wake Forest University School of Biomedical Engineering and SciencesWake Forest School of MedicineWinston‐SalemNorth CarolinaUSA
| | - Michele T. Pritchard
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology, & Therapeutics, Institute for Reproductive and Developmental SciencesUniversity of Kansas Medical CenterKansas CityKansasUSA
| | - Francesca E. Duncan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of MedicineNorthwestern UniversityChicagoIllinoisUSA
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12
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Chen Y, Miao C, Zhao Y, Yang L, Wang R, Shen D, Ren N, Zhang Q. Inflammasomes in human reproductive diseases. Mol Hum Reprod 2023; 29:gaad035. [PMID: 37788097 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaad035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2023] [Revised: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Inflammasomes are multi-protein complexes localized within immune and non-immune cells that induce caspase activation, proinflammatory cytokine secretion, and ultimately pyroptosis-a type of cell death. Inflammasomes are involved in a variety of human diseases, especially acute or chronic inflammatory diseases. In this review, we focused on the strong correlation between the NLRP3 inflammasome and various reproductive diseases, including ovarian aging or premature ovarian insufficiency, PCOS, endometriosis, recurrent spontaneous abortion, preterm labor, pre-eclampsia, and male subfertility, as well as the multifaceted role of NLRP3 in the pathogenesis and treatment of these diseases. In addition, we provide an overview of the structure and amplification of inflammasomes. This comprehensive review demonstrates the vital role of NLRP3 inflammasome activation in human reproductive diseases together with the underlying mechanisms, offers new insights for mechanistic studies of reproduction, and provides promising possibilities for the development of drugs targeting the NLRP3 inflammasome for the treatment of reproductive disorders in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun Chen
- Department of TCM Gynecology, Hangzhou TCM Hospital affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Chenyun Miao
- Department of TCM Gynecology, Hangzhou TCM Hospital affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Ying Zhao
- Department of TCM Gynecology, Hangzhou TCM Hospital affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Liuqing Yang
- Department of TCM Gynecology, Hangzhou TCM Hospital affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Ruye Wang
- Department of TCM Gynecology, Hangzhou TCM Hospital affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Dan Shen
- Department of TCM Gynecology, Hangzhou TCM Hospital affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Ning Ren
- Department of TCM Gynecology, Hangzhou TCM Hospital affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Qin Zhang
- Department of TCM Gynecology, Hangzhou TCM Hospital affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
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13
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Chang CL. Facilitation of Ovarian Response by Mechanical Force-Latest Insight on Fertility Improvement in Women with Poor Ovarian Response or Primary Ovarian Insufficiency. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14751. [PMID: 37834198 PMCID: PMC10573075 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241914751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The decline in fertility in aging women, especially those with poor ovarian response (POR) or primary ovarian insufficiency (POI), is a major concern for modern IVF centers. Fertility treatments have traditionally relied on gonadotropin- and steroid-hormone-based IVF practices, but these methods have limitations, especially for women with aging ovaries. Researchers have been motivated to explore alternative approaches. Ovarian aging is a complicated process, and the deterioration of oocytes, follicular cells, the extracellular matrix (ECM), and the stromal compartment can all contribute to declining fertility. Adjunct interventions that involve the use of hormones, steroids, and cofactors and gamete engineering are two major research areas aimed to improve fertility in aging women. Additionally, mechanical procedures including the In Vitro Activation (IVA) procedure, which combines pharmacological activators and fragmentation of ovarian strips, and the Whole Ovary Laparoscopic Incision (WOLI) procedure that solely relies on mechanical manipulation in vivo have shown promising results in improving follicle growth and fertility in women with POR and POI. Advances in the use of mechanical procedures have brought exciting opportunities to improve fertility outcomes in aging women with POR or POI. While the lack of a comprehensive understanding of the molecular mechanisms that lead to fertility decline in aging women remains a major challenge for further improvement of mechanical-manipulation-based approaches, recent progress has provided a better view of how these procedures promote folliculogenesis in the fibrotic and avascular aging ovaries. In this review, we first provide a brief overview of the potential mechanisms that contribute to ovarian aging in POI and POR patients, followed by a discussion of measures that aim to improve ovarian folliculogenesis in aging women. At last, we discuss the likely mechanisms that contribute to the outcomes of IVA and WOLI procedures and potential future directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chia Lin Chang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital Linkou Medical Center, Chang Gung University, Guishan, Taoyuan 33305, Taiwan
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14
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Shuyuan Y, Meimei W, Fenghua L, Huishan Z, Min C, Hongchu B, Xuemei L. hUMSC transplantation restores follicle development in ovary damaged mice via re-establish extracellular matrix (ECM) components. J Ovarian Res 2023; 16:172. [PMID: 37620943 PMCID: PMC10464307 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-023-01217-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Explore the therapeutic role of human umbilical mesenchymal stem cells (hUMSCs) transplantation for regeneration of ECM components and restoration of follicular development in mice. BACKGROUND The extracellular matrix (ECM) is crucial to maintain ovary function and regulate follicular development, as it participates in important cell signaling and provides physical support to the cells. However, it is unknown how hUMSCs affect the expression of ECM-related genes in ovaries treated with cyclophosphamide (CTX) and busulfan (BUS). METHODS In the present study, we used 64 six- to eight-week-old ICR female mice to established mouse model. The mice were randomly divided into four groups (n = 16/group): control, POI, POI + hUMSCs, and POI + PBS group. The premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) mouse model was established by intraperitoneal injection of CTX and BUS for 7days, then, hUMSCs or PBS were respectively injected via the tail vein in POI + hUMSCs or POI + PBS group. Another 7days after injection, the mice were sacrificed to harvest the ovary tissue. The ovaries were immediately frozen with liquid nitrogen or fixed with 4% PFA for subsequent experiments. To screen differentially expressed genes (DEGs), we performed transcriptome sequencing of ovaries. Thereafter, a Gene Ontology (GO) terms and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analyses were performed to predict the related biological functions. Retrieval of interacting genes for ECM-related DEGs was performed using the function of STRINGdb (version 2.6.5) to evaluate potential protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks. Furthermore, qRT-PCR and IHC were performed to assess the differential expression of selected DEGs in control, damaged, hUMSCs-transplanted and non-transplanted ovaries. RESULTS Chemotherapy caused mouse ovarian follicular reserve depletion, and hUMSCs transplantation partially restored follicular development. Our results revealed that ECM-receptor interaction and ECM organization were both downregulated in the damaged ovaries. Further investigation showed that ECM-related genes were downregulated in the CTX and BUS treatment group and partially rescued in hUMSCs injection group but not in the PBS group. qRT-PCR and IHC verified the results: collagen IV and laminin gamma 3 were both expressed around follicle regions in normal ovaries, chemotherapy treatment disrupted their expression, and hUMSCs transplantation rescued their localization and expression to some extent. CONCLUSION Our data demonstrated that ECM-related genes participate in the regulation of ovarian reserve, hUMSCs treatment rescued abnormal expression and localization of collagen IV and laminin gamma 3 in the damaged ovaries. The results suggest that hUMSCs transplantation can maintain ECM-stable microenvironments, which is beneficial to follicular development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yin Shuyuan
- Reproductive Medicine Centre, The Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai, 264000, Shandong, China
| | - Wang Meimei
- Reproductive Medicine Centre, The Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai, 264000, Shandong, China
| | - Li Fenghua
- Reproductive Medicine Centre, The Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai, 264000, Shandong, China
| | - Zhao Huishan
- Reproductive Medicine Centre, The Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai, 264000, Shandong, China
| | - Chu Min
- Reproductive Medicine Centre, The Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai, 264000, Shandong, China
| | - Bao Hongchu
- Reproductive Medicine Centre, The Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai, 264000, Shandong, China.
| | - Liu Xuemei
- Reproductive Medicine Centre, The Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai, 264000, Shandong, China.
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15
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Deng J, Tang Y, Li L, Huang R, Wang Z, Ye T, Xiao Z, Hu M, Wei S, Wang Y, Yang Y, Huang Y. miR-143-3p Promotes Ovarian Granulosa Cell Senescence and Inhibits Estradiol Synthesis by Targeting UBE2E3 and LHCGR. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12560. [PMID: 37628741 PMCID: PMC10454865 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241612560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/30/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The ovary is a highly susceptible organ to senescence, and granulosa cells (GCs) have a crucial role in oocyte development promotion and overall ovarian function maintenance. As age advances, GCs apoptosis and dysfunction escalate, leading to ovarian aging. However, the molecular mechanisms underpinning ovarian aging remain poorly understood. In this study, we observed a correlation between the age-related decline of fertility and elevated expression levels of miR-143-3p in female mice. Moreover, miR-143-3p was highly expressed in senescent ovarian GCs. The overexpression of miR-143-3p in GCs not only hindered their proliferation and induced senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) but also impeded steroid hormone synthesis by targeting ubiquitin-conjugating enzyme E2 E3 (Ube2e3) and luteinizing hormone and human chorionic gonadotropin receptor (Lhcgr). These findings suggest that miR-143-3p plays a substantial role in senescence and steroid hormone synthesis in GCs, indicating its potential as a therapeutic target for interventions in the ovarian aging process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingxian Deng
- Department of Pharmacology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China;
| | - Yan Tang
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China (L.L.); (R.H.); (Z.W.); (T.Y.); (Z.X.); (M.H.); (S.W.); (Y.W.)
| | - Lu Li
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China (L.L.); (R.H.); (Z.W.); (T.Y.); (Z.X.); (M.H.); (S.W.); (Y.W.)
| | - Rufei Huang
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China (L.L.); (R.H.); (Z.W.); (T.Y.); (Z.X.); (M.H.); (S.W.); (Y.W.)
| | - Zhaoyang Wang
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China (L.L.); (R.H.); (Z.W.); (T.Y.); (Z.X.); (M.H.); (S.W.); (Y.W.)
| | - Tao Ye
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China (L.L.); (R.H.); (Z.W.); (T.Y.); (Z.X.); (M.H.); (S.W.); (Y.W.)
| | - Ziyan Xiao
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China (L.L.); (R.H.); (Z.W.); (T.Y.); (Z.X.); (M.H.); (S.W.); (Y.W.)
| | - Meirong Hu
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China (L.L.); (R.H.); (Z.W.); (T.Y.); (Z.X.); (M.H.); (S.W.); (Y.W.)
| | - Siying Wei
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China (L.L.); (R.H.); (Z.W.); (T.Y.); (Z.X.); (M.H.); (S.W.); (Y.W.)
| | - Yuxin Wang
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China (L.L.); (R.H.); (Z.W.); (T.Y.); (Z.X.); (M.H.); (S.W.); (Y.W.)
| | - Yan Yang
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China (L.L.); (R.H.); (Z.W.); (T.Y.); (Z.X.); (M.H.); (S.W.); (Y.W.)
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Yadong Huang
- Department of Pharmacology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China;
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China (L.L.); (R.H.); (Z.W.); (T.Y.); (Z.X.); (M.H.); (S.W.); (Y.W.)
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine, Guangzhou 510632, China
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Zhang J, Nishida Y, Koike H, Zhuo L, Ito K, Ikuta K, Sakai T, Imagama S. Development of Therapeutic Agent for Osteoarthritis via Inhibition of KIAA1199 Activity: Effect of Ipriflavone In Vivo. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12422. [PMID: 37569797 PMCID: PMC10419624 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241512422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2023] [Revised: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to clarify the effects of ipriflavone, which effectively reduces KIAA1199 activity, on osteoarthritis (OA) development and progression in an in vivo OA mouse model. The OA model mice were divided into the ipriflavone (200 mg/kg/day) group and the control group. OA onset and progression were evaluated with the Mankin score, and KIAA1199 expression and hyaluronan (HA) accumulation were analyzed by immunostaining. The molecular weight of HA in the cartilage tissue and serum HA concentration were analyzed by chromatography and competitive HA enzyme-linked immunoassay. The effects of ipriflavone on the bovine cartilage explant culture under the influence of IL-1β were also investigated. In the ipriflavone group, Safranin-O stainability was well-preserved, resulting in significant reduction of the Mankin score (p = 0.027). KIAA1199 staining positivity decreased and HA stainability was preserved in the ipriflavone group. The serum HA concentration decreased, and the molecular weight of HA in the cartilage tissue increased in the ipriflavone group. The results of the cartilage explant culture indicated that ipriflavone could reduce GAG losses and increase the molecular weight of HA. Thus, ipriflavone may have an inhibitory effect on OA development/progression. Ipriflavone could be a therapeutic drug for OA by targeting KIAA1199 activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiarui Zhang
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya 466-8560, Japan; (J.Z.); (H.K.); (K.I.); (K.I.); (T.S.); (S.I.)
| | - Yoshihiro Nishida
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya 466-8560, Japan; (J.Z.); (H.K.); (K.I.); (K.I.); (T.S.); (S.I.)
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Nagoya University Hospital, Nagoya 466-8560, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Koike
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya 466-8560, Japan; (J.Z.); (H.K.); (K.I.); (K.I.); (T.S.); (S.I.)
| | - Lisheng Zhuo
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya 466-8560, Japan; (J.Z.); (H.K.); (K.I.); (K.I.); (T.S.); (S.I.)
| | - Kan Ito
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya 466-8560, Japan; (J.Z.); (H.K.); (K.I.); (K.I.); (T.S.); (S.I.)
| | - Kunihiro Ikuta
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya 466-8560, Japan; (J.Z.); (H.K.); (K.I.); (K.I.); (T.S.); (S.I.)
| | - Tomohisa Sakai
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya 466-8560, Japan; (J.Z.); (H.K.); (K.I.); (K.I.); (T.S.); (S.I.)
- Rare Cancer Center, Nagoya University Hospital, Nagoya 466-8560, Japan
| | - Shiro Imagama
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya 466-8560, Japan; (J.Z.); (H.K.); (K.I.); (K.I.); (T.S.); (S.I.)
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Size matters: differential property of hyaluronan and its fragments in the skin- relation to pharmacokinetics, immune activity and wound healing. JOURNAL OF PHARMACEUTICAL INVESTIGATION 2023. [DOI: 10.1007/s40005-023-00614-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/03/2023]
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18
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Converse A, Zaniker EJ, Amargant F, Duncan FE. Recapitulating folliculogenesis and oogenesis outside the body: encapsulated in vitro follicle growth†. Biol Reprod 2023; 108:5-22. [PMID: 36136744 PMCID: PMC9843677 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Revised: 09/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Folliculogenesis is a tightly coordinated process essential for generating a fertilization-competent gamete while also producing gonadal hormones that sustain endocrine function. In vitro follicle growth systems have been critical to our understanding of key events in folliculogenesis, such as gonadotropin-independent and dependent growth, steroid hormone production, and oocyte growth and maturation (cytoplasmic and meiotic). Although there are several successful follicle culture strategies, the following protocol details an encapsulated in vitro follicle growth (eIVFG) system for use with mouse ovarian follicles. Encapsulated IVFG is performed with alginate hydrogels, which are biologically inert, maintains cell-to-cell interactions between granulosa cells and the oocyte, and preserves follicle architecture as found in the ovary. The system supports follicle growth, development, and differentiation from the early primary follicle to the antral follicle stage. Moreover, post-folliculogenesis events including meiotic maturation, ovulation, and luteinization are also supported. Importantly, the culture of secondary follicles has successfully resulted in viable pups after blastocyst transfer. This alginate-based eIVFG system is versatile and has broad applications as a tool for interrogating the fundamental biology of the ovarian follicle in a controlled manner, a screening platform for toxicity and bioactivity, and a potential fertility preservation method for endangered species as well as humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aubrey Converse
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illnois, USA
| | - Emily J Zaniker
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illnois, USA
| | - Farners Amargant
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illnois, USA
| | - Francesca E Duncan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illnois, USA
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19
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Biswas A, Ng BH, Prabhakaran VS, Chan CJ. Squeezing the eggs to grow: The mechanobiology of mammalian folliculogenesis. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:1038107. [PMID: 36531957 PMCID: PMC9756970 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.1038107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 08/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The formation of functional eggs (oocyte) in ovarian follicles is arguably one of the most important events in early mammalian development since the oocytes provide the bulk genetic and cytoplasmic materials for successful reproduction. While past studies have identified many genes that are critical to normal ovarian development and function, recent studies have highlighted the role of mechanical force in shaping folliculogenesis. In this review, we discuss the underlying mechanobiological principles and the force-generating cellular structures and extracellular matrix that control the various stages of follicle development. We also highlight emerging techniques that allow for the quantification of mechanical interactions and follicular dynamics during development, and propose new directions for future studies in the field. We hope this review will provide a timely and useful framework for future understanding of mechano-signalling pathways in reproductive biology and diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arikta Biswas
- Mechanobiology Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Boon Heng Ng
- Mechanobiology Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | | | - Chii Jou Chan
- Mechanobiology Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
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20
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The process of ovarian aging: it is not just about oocytes and granulosa cells. J Assist Reprod Genet 2022; 39:783-792. [PMID: 35352316 PMCID: PMC9051003 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-022-02478-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Ovarian age is classically considered the main cause of female reproductive infertility. In women, the process proceeds as an ongoing decline in the primordial follicle stockpile and it is associated with reduced fertility in the mid-thirties, irregular menstruation from the mid-forties, cessation of fertility, and, eventually, menopause in the early fifties. Reproductive aging is historically associated with changes in oocyte quantity and quality. However, besides the oocyte, other cellular as well as environmental factors have been the focus of more recent investigations suggesting that ovarian decay is a complex and multifaceted process. Among these factors, we will consider mitochondria and oxidative stress as related to nutrition, changes in extracellular matrix molecules, and the associated ovarian stromal compartment where immune cells of both the native and adaptive systems seem to play an important role. Understanding such processes is crucial to design treatment strategies to slow down ovarian aging and consequently prolong reproductive lifespan and, more to this, alleviaingt side effects of menopause on the musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, and nervous systems.
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21
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Sun C, Yang X, Wang T, Cheng M, Han Y. Ovarian Biomechanics: From Health to Disease. Front Oncol 2022; 11:744257. [PMID: 35070963 PMCID: PMC8776636 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.744257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Biomechanics is a physical phenomenon which mainly related with deformation and movement of life forms. As a mechanical signal, it participates in the growth and development of many tissues and organs, including ovary. Mechanical signals not only participate in multiple processes in the ovary but also play a critical role in ovarian growth and normal physiological functions. Additionally, the involvement of mechanical signals has been found in ovarian cancer and other ovarian diseases, prompting us to focus on the roles of mechanical signals in the process of ovarian health to disease. This review mainly discusses the effects and signal transduction of biomechanics (including elastic force, shear force, compressive stress and tensile stress) in ovarian development as a regulatory signal, as well as in the pathological process of normal ovarian diseases and cancer. This review also aims to provide new research ideas for the further research and treatment of ovarian-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenchen Sun
- School of Life Science and Technology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
| | - Xiaoxu Yang
- School of Life Science and Technology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
| | - Tianxiao Wang
- School of Life Science and Technology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
| | - Min Cheng
- Department of Physiology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
| | - Yangyang Han
- School of Life Science and Technology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
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22
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Du Y, Liu J, Liu S, Hu J, Wang S, Cui K, Yan K, Liu X, Wu NR, Yang X, Liang X. Mogroside-rich extract from Siraitia grosvenorii fruits protects against the depletion of ovarian reserves in aging mice by ameliorating inflammatory stress. Food Funct 2022; 13:121-130. [PMID: 34897342 DOI: 10.1039/d1fo03194e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Mogroside-rich extract (MGE), the main bioactive component of dried Siraitia grosvenorii fruit, has long been used as a natural sweetener and traditional Chinese medicine. This extract possesses various types of pharmacological activities, such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, hypoglycemic and hypolipemic activities. Moreover, we recently revealed that MGE has beneficial effects on female reproduction. Increasing maternal age leads to a rapid reduction in female fertility; in particular, it dramatically decreases ovarian function. Nevertheless, whether MGE can alleviate ovarian aging and the underlying mechanisms have not yet been explored. In this study, mice were treated with MGE by supplementation in drinking water from 10 to 44 weeks of age. Then, ovarian function and molecular changes were determined. Our findings showed that MGE treatment protected aged mice from estrous cycle disorder. Moreover, MGE treatment significantly increased the ovarian reserves of aged mice. RNA-seq data showed that MGE upregulated the expression of genes related to gonad development, follicular development, and hormone secretion in ovarian tissue. Additionally, inflammatory stress was induced, as indicated by upregulation of inflammation-related gene expression and elevated TNF-α levels in the ovarian tissues of aged mice; however, MGE treatment attenuated inflammatory stress. In summary, our findings demonstrate that MGE can ameliorate age-related estrous cycle disorder and ovarian reserve decline in mice, possibly by alleviating ovarian inflammatory stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya Du
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi 530004, China. .,College of Animal Science & Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi 530004, China
| | - Jiahao Liu
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi 530004, China. .,College of Animal Science & Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi 530004, China
| | - Shaoyuan Liu
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi 530004, China. .,College of Animal Science & Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi 530004, China
| | - Jiahao Hu
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi 530004, China. .,College of Animal Science & Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi 530004, China
| | - Siyuan Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi 530004, China. .,College of Animal Science & Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi 530004, China
| | - Kexin Cui
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi 530004, China. .,College of Animal Science & Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi 530004, China
| | - Ke Yan
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi 530004, China. .,College of Animal Science & Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi 530004, China
| | - Xinxin Liu
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi 530004, China. .,College of Animal Science & Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi 530004, China
| | - Nian-Rong Wu
- Rid Testing & Certification (Guangxi) Inc., No.19-1 South of Renmin Road, Lingui District, Guilin, Guangxi, 541100, China
| | - Xiaogan Yang
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi 530004, China. .,College of Animal Science & Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi 530004, China
| | - Xingwei Liang
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi 530004, China. .,College of Animal Science & Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi 530004, China
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23
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Klenov V, Flor S, Ganesan S, Adur M, Eti N, Iqbal K, Soares MJ, Ludewig G, Ross JW, Robertson LW, Keating AF. The Aryl hydrocarbon receptor mediates reproductive toxicity of polychlorinated biphenyl congener 126 in rats. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2021; 426:115639. [PMID: 34256052 PMCID: PMC8500329 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2021.115639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2021] [Revised: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 07/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are endocrine disrupting chemicals with documented, though mechanistically ill-defined, reproductive toxicity. The toxicity of dioxin-like PCBs, such as PCB126, is mediated via the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) in non-ovarian tissues. The goal of this study was to examine the uterine and ovarian effects of PCB126 and test the hypothesis that the AHR is required for PCB126-induced reproductive toxicity. Female Holzman-Sprague Dawley wild type (n = 14; WT) and Ahr knock out (n = 11; AHR-/-) rats received a single intraperitoneal injection of either corn oil vehicle (5 ml/kg: WT_O and AHR-/-_O) or PCB126 (1.63 mg/kg in corn oil: WT_PCB and AHR-/-_PCB) at four weeks of age. The estrous cycle was synchronized and ovary and uterus were collected 28 days after exposure. In WT rats, PCB126 exposure reduced (P < 0.05) body and ovary weight, uterine gland number, uterine area, progesterone, 17β-estradiol and anti-Müllerian hormone level, secondary and antral follicle and corpora lutea number but follicle stimulating hormone level increased (P < 0.05). In AHR-/- rats, PCB126 exposure increased (P ≤ 0.05) circulating luteinizing hormone level. Ovarian or uterine mRNA abundance of biotransformation, and inflammation genes were altered (P < 0.05) in WT rats due to PCB126 exposure. In AHR-/- rats, the transcriptional effects of PCB126 were restricted to reductions (P < 0.05) in three inflammatory genes. These findings support a functional role for AHR in the female reproductive tract, illustrate AHR's requirement in PCB126-induced reprotoxicity, and highlight the potential risk of dioxin-like compounds on female reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Violet Klenov
- Dept of Ob/Gyn, University of Iowa, United States of America
| | - Susanne Flor
- Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Human Toxicology and Dept of Occupational and Environmental Health, University of Iowa, United States of America
| | - Shanthi Ganesan
- Dept of Animal Science, Iowa State University, United States of America
| | - Malavika Adur
- Dept of Animal Science, Iowa State University, United States of America
| | - Nazmin Eti
- Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Human Toxicology and Dept of Occupational and Environmental Health, University of Iowa, United States of America
| | - Khursheed Iqbal
- Institute for Reproduction and Perinatal Research and Department of Pathology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, United States of America
| | - Michael J Soares
- Institute for Reproduction and Perinatal Research and Department of Pathology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, United States of America; Departments of Pediatrics and Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, United States of America; Center for Perinatal Research, Children's Research Institute, Children's Mercy, Kansas City, MO, United States of America
| | - Gabriele Ludewig
- Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Human Toxicology and Dept of Occupational and Environmental Health, University of Iowa, United States of America
| | - Jason W Ross
- Dept of Animal Science, Iowa State University, United States of America
| | - Larry W Robertson
- Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Human Toxicology and Dept of Occupational and Environmental Health, University of Iowa, United States of America
| | - Aileen F Keating
- Dept of Animal Science, Iowa State University, United States of America.
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24
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Parkes WS, Amargant F, Zhou LT, Villanueva CE, Duncan FE, Pritchard MT. Hyaluronan and Collagen Are Prominent Extracellular Matrix Components in Bovine and Porcine Ovaries. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:genes12081186. [PMID: 34440360 PMCID: PMC8392036 DOI: 10.3390/genes12081186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2021] [Revised: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The extracellular matrix (ECM) is a major component of the ovarian stroma. Collagen and hyaluronan (HA) are critical ovarian stromal ECM molecules that undergo age-dependent changes in the mouse and human. How these matrix components are regulated and organized in other mammalian species with reproductive characteristics similar to women such as cows and pigs, has not been systematically investigated. Therefore, we performed histological, molecular, and biochemical analyses to characterize collagen and HA in these animals. Bovine ovaries had more collagen than porcine ovaries when assessed biochemically, and this was associated with species-specific differences in collagen gene transcripts: Col3a1 was predominant in cow ovaries while Col1a1 was predominant in pig ovaries. We also observed more HA in the porcine vs. bovine ovary. HA was distributed across three molecular weight ranges (<100 kDa, 100-300 kDa, and >300 kDa) in ovarian tissue and follicular fluid, with tissue having more >300 kDa HA than the other two ranges. Transcripts for HA synthesis and degradation enzymes, Has3 and Hyal2, respectively, were predominant in cow ovaries, whereas Has2, Kiaa1199, and Tmem2 tended to be predominant in pig ovaries. Together, our findings have implications for the composition, organization, and regulation of the ovarian ECM in large mammalian species, including humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wendena S. Parkes
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Therapeutics, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA; (W.S.P.); (C.E.V.)
| | - Farners Amargant
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA; (F.A.); (L.T.Z.)
| | - Luhan T. Zhou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA; (F.A.); (L.T.Z.)
| | - Cecilia E. Villanueva
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Therapeutics, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA; (W.S.P.); (C.E.V.)
| | - Francesca E. Duncan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA; (F.A.); (L.T.Z.)
- Correspondence: (F.E.D.); (M.T.P.)
| | - Michele T. Pritchard
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Therapeutics, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA; (W.S.P.); (C.E.V.)
- Institute for Reproductive and Perinatal Research, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA
- Correspondence: (F.E.D.); (M.T.P.)
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25
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Kong CS, Ordoñez AA, Turner S, Tremaine T, Muter J, Lucas ES, Salisbury E, Vassena R, Tiscornia G, Fouladi-Nashta AA, Hartshorne G, Brosens JJ, Brighton PJ. Embryo biosensing by uterine natural killer cells determines endometrial fate decisions at implantation. FASEB J 2021; 35:e21336. [PMID: 33749894 PMCID: PMC8251835 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202002217r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2020] [Revised: 11/25/2020] [Accepted: 12/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Decidualizing endometrial stromal cells (EnSC) critically determine the maternal response to an implanting conceptus, triggering either menstruation-like disposal of low-fitness embryos or creating an environment that promotes further development. However, the mechanism that couples maternal recognition of low-quality embryos to tissue breakdown remains poorly understood. Recently, we demonstrated that successful transition of the cycling endometrium to a pregnancy state requires selective elimination of pro-inflammatory senescent decidual cells by activated uterine natural killer (uNK) cells. Here we report that uNK cells express CD44, the canonical hyaluronan (HA) receptor, and demonstrate that high molecular weight HA (HMWHA) inhibits uNK cell-mediated killing of senescent decidual cells. In contrast, low molecular weight HA (LMWHA) did not attenuate uNK cell activity in co-culture experiments. Killing of senescent decidual cells by uNK cells was also inhibited upon exposure to medium conditioned by IVF embryos that failed to implant, but not successful embryos. Embryo-mediated inhibition of uNK cell activity was reversed by recombinant hyaluronidase 2 (HYAL2), which hydrolyses HMWHA. We further report a correlation between the levels of HYAL2 secretion by human blastocysts, morphological scores, and implantation potential. Taken together, the data suggest a pivotal role for uNK cells in embryo biosensing and endometrial fate decisions at implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chow-Seng Kong
- Centre for Early Life, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | | | - Sarah Turner
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust, Coventry, UK
| | - Tina Tremaine
- Comparative Biomedical Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, University of London, Hatfield, UK
| | - Joanne Muter
- Centre for Early Life, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK.,Tommy's National Centre for Miscarriage Research, University Hospitals Coventry & Warwickshire NHS Trust, Coventry, UK
| | - Emma S Lucas
- Centre for Early Life, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Emma Salisbury
- Centre for Early Life, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | | | | | - Ali A Fouladi-Nashta
- Comparative Biomedical Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, University of London, Hatfield, UK
| | - Geraldine Hartshorne
- Centre for Early Life, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK.,Centre for Reproductive Medicine, University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust, Coventry, UK
| | - Jan J Brosens
- Centre for Early Life, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK.,Tommy's National Centre for Miscarriage Research, University Hospitals Coventry & Warwickshire NHS Trust, Coventry, UK
| | - Paul J Brighton
- Centre for Early Life, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
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26
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Owczarczyk-Saczonek A, Zdanowska N, Wygonowska E, Placek W. The Immunogenicity of Hyaluronic Fillers and Its Consequences. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol 2021; 14:921-934. [PMID: 34295171 PMCID: PMC8291382 DOI: 10.2147/ccid.s316352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a glycosaminoglycan, a natural component of the extracellular matrix. The identical structure of the molecule in all living organisms is its main advantage, as it translates into the minimal probability of immunogenicity. Therefore, it is the closest to the ideal preparation used as a filler, due to its biocompatibility and stability at the site of implantation. This paper includes the discussion of the potential mechanisms of adverse immune reactions to HA along with the mechanisms of reaction following vaccinations against SARS-CoV-2. Based on the literature, we tried to systematize adverse immune reactions with systemic manifestations to HA. The occurrence of unpredictable reactions to hyaluronic acid indicates that they may not be treated as neutral or non-allergenic. The modifications of the chemical structure of HA, additives and individual tendencies in a patient may be the cause of unpredictable reactions, leading to serious health consequences. Preparations of unknown origin, poorly purified, or including bacterial DNA are particularly dangerous. Therefore, long-lasting follow-up of the patient and the selection of a preparation approved by the FDA or EMA are of high importance. Patients are often unaware of the consequences of cheaper procedures performed by persons without suitable knowledge with the use of unregistered products, so the public should be educated and legal regulations should be introduced.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnieszka Owczarczyk-Saczonek
- Department of Dermatology, Sexually Transmitted Diseases and Clinical Immunology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Natalia Zdanowska
- Department of Dermatology, Sexually Transmitted Diseases and Clinical Immunology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Ewa Wygonowska
- Department of Dermatology, Sexually Transmitted Diseases and Clinical Immunology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Waldemar Placek
- Department of Dermatology, Sexually Transmitted Diseases and Clinical Immunology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Olsztyn, Poland
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27
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Li X, Dai B, Guo J, Zheng L, Guo Q, Peng J, Xu J, Qin L. Nanoparticle-Cartilage Interaction: Pathology-Based Intra-articular Drug Delivery for Osteoarthritis Therapy. NANO-MICRO LETTERS 2021; 13:149. [PMID: 34160733 PMCID: PMC8222488 DOI: 10.1007/s40820-021-00670-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Osteoarthritis is the most prevalent chronic and debilitating joint disease, resulting in huge medical and socioeconomic burdens. Intra-articular administration of agents is clinically used for pain management. However, the effectiveness is inapparent caused by the rapid clearance of agents. To overcome this issue, nanoparticles as delivery systems hold considerable promise for local control of the pharmacokinetics of therapeutic agents. Given the therapeutic programs are inseparable from pathological progress of osteoarthritis, an ideal delivery system should allow the release of therapeutic agents upon specific features of disorders. In this review, we firstly introduce the pathological features of osteoarthritis and the design concept for accurate localization within cartilage for sustained drug release. Then, we review the interactions of nanoparticles with cartilage microenvironment and the rational design. Furthermore, we highlight advances in the therapeutic schemes according to the pathology signals. Finally, armed with an updated understanding of the pathological mechanisms, we place an emphasis on the development of "smart" bioresponsive and multiple modality nanoparticles on the near horizon to interact with the pathological signals. We anticipate that the exploration of nanoparticles by balancing the efficacy, safety, and complexity will lay down a solid foundation tangible for clinical translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xu Li
- Musculoskeletal Research Laboratory, Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Sha Tin, Hong Kong, SAR, People's Republic of China
- Joint Laboratory of Chinese Academic of Science and Hong Kong for Biomaterials, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Sha Tin, Hong Kong, SAR, People's Republic of China
- Innovative Orthopedic Biomaterial and Drug Translational Research Laboratory, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Sha Tin, Hong Kong, SAR, People's Republic of China
| | - Bingyang Dai
- Musculoskeletal Research Laboratory, Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Sha Tin, Hong Kong, SAR, People's Republic of China
- Joint Laboratory of Chinese Academic of Science and Hong Kong for Biomaterials, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Sha Tin, Hong Kong, SAR, People's Republic of China
- Innovative Orthopedic Biomaterial and Drug Translational Research Laboratory, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Sha Tin, Hong Kong, SAR, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiaxin Guo
- Musculoskeletal Research Laboratory, Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Sha Tin, Hong Kong, SAR, People's Republic of China
- Joint Laboratory of Chinese Academic of Science and Hong Kong for Biomaterials, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Sha Tin, Hong Kong, SAR, People's Republic of China
- Innovative Orthopedic Biomaterial and Drug Translational Research Laboratory, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Sha Tin, Hong Kong, SAR, People's Republic of China
| | - Lizhen Zheng
- Musculoskeletal Research Laboratory, Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Sha Tin, Hong Kong, SAR, People's Republic of China
- Joint Laboratory of Chinese Academic of Science and Hong Kong for Biomaterials, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Sha Tin, Hong Kong, SAR, People's Republic of China
- Innovative Orthopedic Biomaterial and Drug Translational Research Laboratory, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Sha Tin, Hong Kong, SAR, People's Republic of China
| | - Quanyi Guo
- Beijing Key Lab of Regenerative Medicine in Orthopedics, Key Laboratory of Musculoskeletal Trauma and War Injuries PLA, Institute of Orthopedics, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiang Peng
- Beijing Key Lab of Regenerative Medicine in Orthopedics, Key Laboratory of Musculoskeletal Trauma and War Injuries PLA, Institute of Orthopedics, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiankun Xu
- Musculoskeletal Research Laboratory, Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Sha Tin, Hong Kong, SAR, People's Republic of China.
- Joint Laboratory of Chinese Academic of Science and Hong Kong for Biomaterials, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Sha Tin, Hong Kong, SAR, People's Republic of China.
- Innovative Orthopedic Biomaterial and Drug Translational Research Laboratory, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Sha Tin, Hong Kong, SAR, People's Republic of China.
| | - Ling Qin
- Musculoskeletal Research Laboratory, Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Sha Tin, Hong Kong, SAR, People's Republic of China.
- Joint Laboratory of Chinese Academic of Science and Hong Kong for Biomaterials, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Sha Tin, Hong Kong, SAR, People's Republic of China.
- Innovative Orthopedic Biomaterial and Drug Translational Research Laboratory, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Sha Tin, Hong Kong, SAR, People's Republic of China.
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28
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Cafe SL, Nixon B, Ecroyd H, Martin JH, Skerrett-Byrne DA, Bromfield EG. Proteostasis in the Male and Female Germline: A New Outlook on the Maintenance of Reproductive Health. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:660626. [PMID: 33937261 PMCID: PMC8085359 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.660626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
For fully differentiated, long lived cells the maintenance of protein homeostasis (proteostasis) becomes a crucial determinant of cellular function and viability. Neurons are the most well-known example of this phenomenon where the majority of these cells must survive the entire course of life. However, male and female germ cells are also uniquely dependent on the maintenance of proteostasis to achieve successful fertilization. Oocytes, also long-lived cells, are subjected to prolonged periods of arrest and are largely reliant on the translation of stored mRNAs, accumulated during the growth period, to support meiotic maturation and subsequent embryogenesis. Conversely, sperm cells, while relatively ephemeral, are completely reliant on proteostasis due to the absence of both transcription and translation. Despite these remarkable, cell-specific features there has been little focus on understanding protein homeostasis in reproductive cells and how/whether proteostasis is "reset" during embryogenesis. Here, we seek to capture the momentum of this growing field by highlighting novel findings regarding germline proteostasis and how this knowledge can be used to promote reproductive health. In this review we capture proteostasis in the context of both somatic cell and germline aging and discuss the influence of oxidative stress on protein function. In particular, we highlight the contributions of proteostasis changes to oocyte aging and encourage a focus in this area that may complement the extensive analyses of DNA damage and aneuploidy that have long occupied the oocyte aging field. Moreover, we discuss the influence of common non-enzymatic protein modifications on the stability of proteins in the male germline, how these changes affect sperm function, and how they may be prevented to preserve fertility. Through this review we aim to bring to light a new trajectory for our field and highlight the potential to harness the germ cell's natural proteostasis mechanisms to improve reproductive health. This manuscript will be of interest to those in the fields of proteostasis, aging, male and female gamete reproductive biology, embryogenesis, and life course health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shenae L. Cafe
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - Brett Nixon
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - Heath Ecroyd
- Molecular Horizons, School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - Jacinta H. Martin
- Department of Human Genetics, McGill University Health Centre Research Institute, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - David A. Skerrett-Byrne
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - Elizabeth G. Bromfield
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
- Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
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29
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Zhang Z, Huang L, Brayboy L. Macrophages: an indispensable piece of ovarian health. Biol Reprod 2021; 104:527-538. [PMID: 33274732 PMCID: PMC7962765 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioaa219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2020] [Revised: 11/10/2020] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Macrophages are the most abundant immune cells in the ovary. In addition to their roles in the innate immune system, these heterogeneous tissue-resident cells are responsive to tissue-derived signals, adapt to their local tissue environment, and specialize in unique functions to maintain tissue homeostasis. Research in the past decades has established a strong link between macrophages and various aspects of ovarian physiology, indicating a pivotal role of macrophages in ovarian health. However, unlike other intensively studied organs, the knowledge of ovarian macrophages dates back to the time when the heterogeneity of ontogeny, phenotype, and function of macrophages was not fully understood. In this review, we discuss the evolving understanding of the biology of ovarian tissue-resident macrophages, highlight their regulatory roles in normal ovarian functions, review the association between certain ovarian pathologies and disturbed macrophage homeostasis, and finally, discuss the technologies that are essential for addressing key questions in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zijing Zhang
- Division of Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women & Infants Hospital of Rhode Island, Providence, RI 02905, USA
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA
| | - Lu Huang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA
| | - Lynae Brayboy
- Division of Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women & Infants Hospital of Rhode Island, Providence, RI 02905, USA
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women & Infants Hospital of Rhode Island, Providence, RI 02905, USA
- Department of Molecular Biology, Cell Biology & Biochemistry, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI 02912, USA
- Department of Neuropediatrics, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin 10117, Germany
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30
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Lliberos C, Liew SH, Mansell A, Hutt KJ. The Inflammasome Contributes to Depletion of the Ovarian Reserve During Aging in Mice. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 8:628473. [PMID: 33644037 PMCID: PMC7905095 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.628473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Ovarian aging is a natural process characterized by follicular depletion and a reduction in oocyte quality, resulting in loss of ovarian function, cycle irregularity and eventually infertility and menopause. The factors that contribute to ovarian aging have not been fully characterized. Activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome has been implicated in age-associated inflammation and diminished function in several organs. In this study, we used Asc−/− and Nlrp3−/− mice to investigate the possibility that chronic low-grade systemic inflammation mediated by the inflammasome contributes to diminished ovarian reserves as females age. Pro-inflammatory cytokines, IL-6, IL-18, and TNF-α, were decreased in the serum of aging Asc−/− mice compared to WT. Within the ovary of reproductively aged Asc−/− mice, mRNA levels of major pro-inflammatory genes Tnfa, Il1a, and Il1b were decreased, and macrophage infiltration was reduced compared to age-matched WT controls. Notably, suppression of the inflammatory phenotype in Asc−/− mice was associated with retention of follicular reserves during reproductive aging. Similarly, the expression of intra-ovarian pro-inflammatory cytokines was reduced, and follicle numbers were significantly elevated, in aging Nlrp3−/− mice compared to WT controls. These data suggest that inflammasome-dependent inflammation contributes to the age-associated depletion of follicles and raises the possibility that ovarian aging could be delayed, and fertile window prolonged, by suppressing inflammatory processes in the ovary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Lliberos
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Seng H Liew
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Ashley Mansell
- Centre for Innate Immunity and Infectious Diseases, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Karla J Hutt
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
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31
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Amargant F, Manuel SL, Larmore MJ, Johnson BW, Lawson M, Pritchard MT, Zelinski MB, Duncan FE. Sphingosine-1-phosphate and its mimetic FTY720 do not protect against radiation-induced ovarian fibrosis in the nonhuman primate†. Biol Reprod 2021; 104:1058-1070. [PMID: 33524104 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioab012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2020] [Revised: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 01/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Oocytes are highly radiosensitive, so agents that prevent radiation-induced ovarian follicle destruction are important fertility preservation strategies. A previous study in rhesus macaques demonstrated that ovarian treatment with antiapoptotic agents, sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) and FTY720, its long-acting mimetic, preserved follicles following a single dose of 15 Gy X-ray radiation, and live offspring were obtained from FTY720-treated animals. However, it is unknown whether these antiapoptotic agents also protected the ovarian stroma from late effects of radiation, including vascular damage and fibrosis. Using ovarian histological sections from this study, we evaluated the vasculature and extracellular matrix in the following cohorts: vehicle + sham irradiation, vehicle + irradiation (OXI), S1P + irradiation (S1P), and FTY720 + irradiation (FTY720). One ovary from each animal was harvested prior to radiation whereas the contralateral ovary was harvested 10 months post-treatment. We assessed vasculature by immunohistochemistry with a PECAM1 antibody, hyaluronan by a hyaluronan binding protein assay, and collagen by picrosirius red and Masson's trichrome staining. Disorganized vessels were observed in the medulla in the OXI and S1P cohorts relative to the sham, but the vasculature in the FTY720 cohort appeared intact, which may partially explain fertoprotection. There were no differences in the hyaluronan matrix among the cohorts, but there was thickening of the tunica albuginea and fibrosis in the OXI cohort relative to the sham, which was not mitigated by either S1P or FTY720 treatment. Thus, the fertoprotective properties of S1P and FTY720 may be limited given their inability to protect the ovarian stroma against the late effects of radiation-induced fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farners Amargant
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Sharrón L Manuel
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Megan J Larmore
- Department of Comparative Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Brian W Johnson
- Department of Comparative Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Maralee Lawson
- Division of Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Beaverton, OR, USA
| | - Michele T Pritchard
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Therapeutics, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA
| | - Mary B Zelinski
- Division of Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Beaverton, OR, USA.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Francesca E Duncan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
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32
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Foley KG, Pritchard MT, Duncan FE. Macrophage-derived multinucleated giant cells: hallmarks of the aging ovary. Reproduction 2021; 161:V5-V9. [PMID: 33258461 DOI: 10.1530/rep-20-0489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2020] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Inflammaging is a state of chronic, low-grade inflammation associated with aging which contributes to age-related diseases. Recently, an age-associated increase in inflammation has been documented in the mammalian ovary, which is accompanied by a shift in the immune cell profile. In this Point of View article, we consider a unique population of macrophage-derived multinucleated giant cells, found in reproductively old mouse ovaries, as potential markers or functional drivers of inflammation in ovarian aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Grace Foley
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Michele T Pritchard
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Therapeutics, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas, USA
| | - Francesca E Duncan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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33
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Amargant F, Manuel SL, Tu Q, Parkes WS, Rivas F, Zhou LT, Rowley JE, Villanueva CE, Hornick JE, Shekhawat GS, Wei J, Pavone ME, Hall AR, Pritchard MT, Duncan FE. Ovarian stiffness increases with age in the mammalian ovary and depends on collagen and hyaluronan matrices. Aging Cell 2020; 19:e13259. [PMID: 33079460 PMCID: PMC7681059 DOI: 10.1111/acel.13259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2020] [Revised: 08/15/2020] [Accepted: 09/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Fibrosis is a hallmark of aging tissues which often leads to altered architecture and function. The ovary is the first organ to show overt signs of aging, including increased fibrosis in the ovarian stroma. How this fibrosis affects ovarian biomechanics and the underlying mechanisms are unknown. Using instrumental indentation, we demonstrated a quantitative increase in ovarian stiffness, as evidenced by an increase in Young's modulus, when comparing ovaries from reproductively young (6-12 weeks) and old (14-17 months) mice. This ovarian stiffness was dependent on collagen because ex vivo enzyme-mediated collagen depletion in ovaries from reproductively old mice restored their collagen content and biomechanical properties to those of young controls. In addition to collagen, we also investigated the role of hyaluronan (HA) in regulating ovarian stiffness. HA is an extracellular matrix glycosaminoglycan that maintains tissue homeostasis, and its loss can change the biomechanical properties of tissues. The total HA content in the ovarian stroma decreased with age, and this was associated with increased hyaluronidase (Hyal1) and decreased hyaluronan synthase (Has3) expression. These gene expression differences were not accompanied by changes in ovarian HA molecular mass distribution. Furthermore, ovaries from mice deficient in HAS3 were stiffer compared to age-matched WT mice. Our results demonstrate that the ovary becomes stiffer with age and that both collagen and HA matrices are contributing mechanisms regulating ovarian biomechanics. Importantly, the age-associated increase in collagen and decrease in HA are conserved in the human ovary and may impact follicle development and oocyte quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farners Amargant
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine Northwestern University Chicago IL USA
| | - Sharrón L. Manuel
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine Northwestern University Chicago IL USA
| | - Qing Tu
- Northwestern University Atomic and Nanoscale Characterization Experimental (NUANCE) Center, Northwestern University Evanston IL USA
| | - Wendena S. Parkes
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Therapeutics University of Kansas Medical Cente Kansas City KS USA
| | - Felipe Rivas
- Virginia Tech‐Wake Forest University School of Biomedical Engineering and Sciences Wake Forest School of Medicine Winston‐Salem NC USA
| | - Luhan T. Zhou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine Northwestern University Chicago IL USA
| | - Jennifer E. Rowley
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine Northwestern University Chicago IL USA
| | - Cecilia E. Villanueva
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Therapeutics University of Kansas Medical Cente Kansas City KS USA
| | - Jessica E. Hornick
- Biological Imaging Facility (BIF) Northwestern University Evanston IL USA
| | - Gajendra S. Shekhawat
- Northwestern University Atomic and Nanoscale Characterization Experimental (NUANCE) Center, Northwestern University Evanston IL USA
| | - Jian‐Jun Wei
- Department of Pathology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University Chicago IL USA
| | - Mary Ellen Pavone
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine Northwestern University Chicago IL USA
| | - Adam R. Hall
- Virginia Tech‐Wake Forest University School of Biomedical Engineering and Sciences Wake Forest School of Medicine Winston‐Salem NC USA
| | - Michele T. Pritchard
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Therapeutics University of Kansas Medical Cente Kansas City KS USA
| | - Francesca E. Duncan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine Northwestern University Chicago IL USA
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34
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Kinnear HM, Tomaszewski CE, Chang FL, Moravek MB, Xu M, Padmanabhan V, Shikanov A. The ovarian stroma as a new frontier. Reproduction 2020; 160:R25-R39. [PMID: 32716007 PMCID: PMC7453977 DOI: 10.1530/rep-19-0501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2019] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Historically, research in ovarian biology has focused on folliculogenesis, but recently the ovarian stroma has become an exciting new frontier for research, holding critical keys to understanding complex ovarian dynamics. Ovarian follicles, which are the functional units of the ovary, comprise the ovarian parenchyma, while the ovarian stroma thus refers to the inverse or the components of the ovary that are not ovarian follicles. The ovarian stroma includes more general components such as immune cells, blood vessels, nerves, and lymphatic vessels, as well as ovary-specific components including ovarian surface epithelium, tunica albuginea, intraovarian rete ovarii, hilar cells, stem cells, and a majority of incompletely characterized stromal cells including the fibroblast-like, spindle-shaped, and interstitial cells. The stroma also includes ovarian extracellular matrix components. This review combines foundational and emerging scholarship regarding the structures and roles of the different components of the ovarian stroma in normal physiology. This is followed by a discussion of key areas for further research regarding the ovarian stroma, including elucidating theca cell origins, understanding stromal cell hormone production and responsiveness, investigating pathological conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), developing artificial ovary technology, and using technological advances to further delineate the multiple stromal cell types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hadrian M Kinnear
- Program in Cellular and Molecular Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
- Medical Scientist Training Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Claire E Tomaszewski
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Faith L Chang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Molly B Moravek
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
- Department of Urology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Min Xu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Vasantha Padmanabhan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
- Department of Pediatrics and Communicable Diseases, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Ariella Shikanov
- Program in Cellular and Molecular Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
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