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Giaccari C, Antonouli S, Anifandis G, Cecconi S, Di Nisio V. An Update on Physiopathological Roles of Akt in the ReprodAKTive Mammalian Ovary. Life (Basel) 2024; 14:722. [PMID: 38929705 PMCID: PMC11204812 DOI: 10.3390/life14060722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2024] [Revised: 05/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/25/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt pathway is a key signaling cascade responsible for the regulation of cell survival, proliferation, and metabolism in the ovarian microenvironment. The optimal finetuning of this pathway is essential for physiological processes concerning oogenesis, folliculogenesis, oocyte maturation, and embryo development. The dysregulation of PI3K/Akt can impair molecular and structural mechanisms that will lead to follicle atresia, or the inability of embryos to reach later stages of development. Due to its pivotal role in the control of cell proliferation, apoptosis, and survival mechanisms, the dysregulation of this molecular pathway can trigger the onset of pathological conditions. Among these, we will focus on diseases that can harm female fertility, such as polycystic ovary syndrome and premature ovarian failure, or women's general health, such as ovarian cancer. In this review, we report the functions of the PI3K/Akt pathway in both its physiological and pathological roles, and we address the existing application of inhibitors and activators for the balancing of the molecular cascade in ovarian pathological environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Giaccari
- Department of Environmental Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (DiSTABiF), Università degli Studi della Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 81100 Caserta, Italy;
| | - Sevastiani Antonouli
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, 41334 Larisa, Greece; (S.A.); (G.A.)
| | - George Anifandis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, 41334 Larisa, Greece; (S.A.); (G.A.)
| | - Sandra Cecconi
- Department of Life, Health, and Environmental Sciences, Università dell’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy
| | - Valentina Di Nisio
- Department of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, SE-14186 Stockholm, Sweden;
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, SE-14186 Stockholm, Sweden
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2
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Ekici M, Ateş MB, Baş-Ekici H, Özgür A. Effect of dexpanthenol on cyclophosphamide-induced ovarian toxicity: a histological and molecular study in rats. Reprod Biomed Online 2024; 48:103778. [PMID: 38492417 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2023.103778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2024]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Does dexpanthenol work as an effective therapeutic agent against cyclophosphamide (CYC)-induced premature ovarian failure (POF) in rats? DESIGN A total of 28 female Wistar Albino rats were randomly divided into four groups (n = 7 per group). The POF and POF plus dexpanthenol groups were intraperitoneally administered CYC at an initial dose of 50 mg/kg, followed by 8 mg/kg for 14 days. The dexpanthenol and POF plus dexpanthenol groups were both intraperitoneally administered dexpanthenol at a dose of 500 mg/kg/day for 15 days. RESULTS In the group administered CYC, the following was observed: a decrease in the ovarian index; a decrease in the numbers of primordial, primary, secondary and antral follicles; an increase in the number of corpus luteum and atretic follicles; a decrease in proliferation cell nuclear antigen immunoreactivity; a significant reduction in anti-Müllerian hormone and oestradiol levels; and an increase in serum FSH levels compared with controls. Dexpanthenol, on the other hand, reversed these effects. Quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction analyses showed that dexpanthenol increased Bcl-2, Akt1, mTOR, Nrf2 and HO-1 in CYC-induced ovarian tissues, but decreased Bax, Cas3, Hsp27, Hsp70, and Hsp90. Dexpanthenol treatment has a potential for inhibiting the intrinsic apoptotic pathway and oxidative stress levels in ovarian tissues via the downregulation of the mRNA expression of heat shock proteins and the activation of Nrf2/HO-1 pathways. CONCLUSIONS Our findings demonstrated that dexpanthenol is an effective agent against POF caused by CYC; however, further experimental and clinical data are needed to use it effectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehmet Ekici
- Sivas Cumhuriyet University, Veterinary Faculty, Department of Veterinary Physiology, 58140, Sivas, Turkey.
| | - Mehmet Burak Ateş
- Selçuk University, Veterinary Faculty, Department of Veterinary Pathology, 42250, Konya, Turkey
| | - Hacer Baş-Ekici
- Selçuk University, Institute of Health Sciences, Department of Veterinary Anatomy, 42250, Konya, Turkey
| | - Aykut Özgür
- Tokat Gaziosmanpasa University, Artova Vocational School, Department of Veterinary, Medicine, Laboratory and Veterinary Health Program, 60670, Tokat, Turkey
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3
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Chu X, Hou M, Li Y, Zhang Q, Wang S, Ma J. Extracellular vesicles in endometriosis: role and potential. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1365327. [PMID: 38737555 PMCID: PMC11082332 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1365327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory gynecological disease, which profoundly jeopardizes women's quality of life and places a significant medical burden on society. The pathogenesis of endometriosis remains unclear, posing major clinical challenges in diagnosis and treatment. There is an urgent demand for the development of innovative non-invasive diagnostic techniques and the identification of therapeutic targets. Extracellular vesicles, recognized for transporting a diverse array of signaling molecules, have garnered extensive attention as a novel mode of intercellular communication. A burgeoning body of research indicates that extracellular vesicles play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of endometriosis, which may provide possibility and prospect for both diagnosis and treatment. In light of this context, this article focuses on the involvement of extracellular vesicles in the pathogenesis of endometriosis, which deliver information among endometrial stromal cells, macrophages, mesenchymal stem cells, and other cells, and explores their potential applications in the diagnosis and treatment, conducing to the emergence of new strategies for clinical diagnosis and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Jing Ma
- First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
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Wen J, Wang M, Zeng Y, He F, Li S, Zhang K, Weng Q. Verification of AKT and CDK5 Gene and RNA Interference Combined with Irradiation to Mediate Fertility Changes in Plutella xylostella (Linnaeus). Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4623. [PMID: 38731841 PMCID: PMC11082963 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25094623] [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: 03/15/2024] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Plutella xylostella (Linnaeus) mainly damages cruciferous crops and causes huge economic losses. Presently, chemical pesticides dominate its control, but prolonged use has led to the development of high resistance. In contrast, the sterile insect technique provides a preventive and control method to avoid the development of resistance. We discovered two genes related to the reproduction of Plutella xylostella and investigated the efficacy of combining irradiation with RNA interference for pest management. The results demonstrate that after injecting PxAKT and PxCDK5, there was a significant decrease of 28.06% and 25.64% in egg production, and a decrease of 19.09% and 15.35% in the hatching rate compared to the control. The ratio of eupyrene sperm bundles to apyrene sperm bundles also decreased. PxAKT and PxCDK5 were identified as pivotal genes influencing male reproductive processes. We established a dose-response relationship for irradiation (0-200 Gy and 200-400 Gy) and derived the irradiation dose equivalent to RNA interference targeting PxAKT and PxCDK5. Combining RNA interference with low-dose irradiation achieved a sub-sterile effect on Plutella xylostella, surpassing either irradiation or RNA interference alone. This study enhances our understanding of the genes associated with the reproduction of Plutella xylostella and proposes a novel approach for pest management by combining irradiation and RNA interference.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaqi Wen
- College of Plant Protection, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; (J.W.); (M.W.); (Y.Z.); (F.H.); (S.L.)
| | - Mengran Wang
- College of Plant Protection, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; (J.W.); (M.W.); (Y.Z.); (F.H.); (S.L.)
| | - Yuhao Zeng
- College of Plant Protection, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; (J.W.); (M.W.); (Y.Z.); (F.H.); (S.L.)
| | - Fengting He
- College of Plant Protection, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; (J.W.); (M.W.); (Y.Z.); (F.H.); (S.L.)
| | - Shifan Li
- College of Plant Protection, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; (J.W.); (M.W.); (Y.Z.); (F.H.); (S.L.)
| | - Ke Zhang
- College of Plant Protection, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; (J.W.); (M.W.); (Y.Z.); (F.H.); (S.L.)
| | - Qunfang Weng
- College of Plant Protection, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; (J.W.); (M.W.); (Y.Z.); (F.H.); (S.L.)
- Key Laboratory of Bio-Pesticide Innovation and Application of Guangdong Province, College of Plant Protection, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
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Cai J, Li Y, Zhao B, Bao Z, Li J, Sun S, Chen Y, Wu X. N-Acetylcysteine Alleviates D-Galactose-Induced Injury of Ovarian Granulosa Cells in Female Rabbits by Regulating the PI3K/Akt/mTOR Signaling Pathway. Antioxidants (Basel) 2024; 13:384. [PMID: 38671832 PMCID: PMC11047383 DOI: 10.3390/antiox13040384] [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: 02/05/2024] [Revised: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The ovary plays a crucial role in the reproductive system of female animals. Ovarian problems such as ovarian insufficiency, premature aging, polycystic ovary syndrome, and ovarian cysts may lead to ovulation disorders, abnormal hormone secretion, or luteal dysfunction, thereby increasing the risk of infertility and abortion. Only when the ovarian function and other organs in the reproductive system remain healthy and work normally can female animals be ensured to carry out reproductive activities regularly, improve the pregnancy rate and litter size, promote the healthy development of the fetus, and then improve their economic value. The follicle, as the functional unit of the ovary, is composed of theca cells, granulosa cells (GCs), and oocytes. GCs are the largest cell population and main functional unit in follicles and provide the necessary nutrients for the growth and development of follicles. N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is a prevalent and cell-permeable antioxidant molecule that effectively prevents apoptosis and promotes cellular survival. Over the past few years, its function in boosting reproductive performance in animals at the cellular level has been widely acknowledged. However, its specific role and mechanism in influencing GCs is yet to be fully understood. The objective of this study was to examine the effects of NAC on ovarian damage in female rabbits. For this purpose, D-galactose (D-gal) was first used to establish a model of damaged GCs, with exposure to 1.5 mg/mL of D-gal leading to substantial damage. Subsequently, varying concentrations of NAC were introduced to determine the precise mechanism through which it influences cell damage. Based on the results of the Cell Counting Kit-8 assay, flow cytometry, and Western blotting, it was found that 0.5 mg/mL of NAC could significantly suppress cell apoptosis and promote proliferation. In particular, it decreased the expression levels of Bax, p53, and Caspase-9 genes, while concurrently upregulating the expression of the BCL-2 gene. Moreover, NAC was found to alleviate intracellular oxidative stress, suppress the discharge of mitochondrial Cytochrome c, and boost the enzymatic activities of CAT (Catalase), GSH (Glutathione), and SOD (Superoxide dismutase). RNA sequencing analysis subsequently underscored the critical role of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway in governing proliferation and apoptosis within GCs. These findings demonstrated that NAC could significantly influence gene expression within this pathway, thereby clarifying the exact relationship between the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling cascade and the underlying cellular processes controlling proliferation and apoptosis. In conclusion, NAC can reduce the expression of Bax, p53, and Caspase-9 genes, inhibit the apoptosis of GCs, improve cell viability, and resist D-gal-induced oxidative stress by increasing the activity of CAT, GSH, and SOD. The molecular mechanism of NAC in alleviating D-gal-induced ovarian GC injury in female rabbits by regulating the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway provides experimental evidence for the effect of NAC on animal reproductive function at the cellular level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiawei Cai
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China; (J.C.); (Y.L.); (B.Z.); (Z.B.); (J.L.); (S.S.)
| | - Yunpeng Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China; (J.C.); (Y.L.); (B.Z.); (Z.B.); (J.L.); (S.S.)
| | - Bohao Zhao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China; (J.C.); (Y.L.); (B.Z.); (Z.B.); (J.L.); (S.S.)
| | - Zhiyuan Bao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China; (J.C.); (Y.L.); (B.Z.); (Z.B.); (J.L.); (S.S.)
| | - Jiali Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China; (J.C.); (Y.L.); (B.Z.); (Z.B.); (J.L.); (S.S.)
| | - Shaoning Sun
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China; (J.C.); (Y.L.); (B.Z.); (Z.B.); (J.L.); (S.S.)
| | - Yang Chen
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China; (J.C.); (Y.L.); (B.Z.); (Z.B.); (J.L.); (S.S.)
| | - Xinsheng Wu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China; (J.C.); (Y.L.); (B.Z.); (Z.B.); (J.L.); (S.S.)
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture & Agri-Product Safety, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
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Chen SY, Wang TE, Lee WY, Yang YY, Lai HC, Matsuda F, Kosek H, Chen YT, Li SH, Tsai PS. Cre-LoxP and tamoxifen-induced deletion of ovarian quiescin sulfhydryl oxidase 2 showed disruption of ovulatory activity in mice. J Ovarian Res 2024; 17:66. [PMID: 38504307 PMCID: PMC10949576 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-024-01388-2] [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: 07/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Quiescin sulfhydryl oxidase 2 (QSOX2) is a flavin adenine dinucleotide-dependent sulfhydryl oxidase that is known to be involved in protein folding, cell growth regulation, and redox state modification through oxidative activities. Earlier studies demonstrated the tissue and cellular localization of QSOX2 in the male reproductive tract, as well as the highly-regulated mechanism of QSOX2 protein synthesis and expression through the coordinated action of testosterone and epididymal-enriched amino acid, glutamate. However, the presence and the functions of QSOX2 in female reproduction are unknown. In this study, we applied the Cre-loxP gene manipulation system to generate the heterozygous and homozygous Qsox2 knockout mice and examined its effects on ovarian function. RESULTS We demonstrated that QSOX2 was detected in the follicle-supporting cells (granulosa and cumulus cells) of ovarian follicles of all stages but was absent in the corpus luteum, suggesting its supportive role in folliculogenesis. In comparison with reproductive organogenesis in wild-type mice, there was no difference in testicular and epididymal structure in male Qsox2 knockout; however, Qsox2 knockout disrupted the regular ovulation process in female mice as a drastic decrease in the formation of the corpus luteum was detected, and no pregnancy was achieved when mating males with homozygous Qsox2 knockout females. RNAseq analyses further revealed that Qsox2 knockout altered critical signaling pathways and genes that are responsible for maintaining ovarian functions. CONCLUSION Our data demonstrated for the first time that Qsox2 is critical for ovarian function in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shih-Yun Chen
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, National Taiwan University, No. 1, Sec. 4, Roosevelt Rd., Taipei, 10617, Taiwan
| | - Tse-En Wang
- Graduate Institute of Veterinary Medicine, National Taiwan University, 10617, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Yun Lee
- Graduate Institute of Veterinary Medicine, National Taiwan University, 10617, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ya-Yi Yang
- Graduate Institute of Veterinary Medicine, National Taiwan University, 10617, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hong-Chun Lai
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, National Taiwan University, No. 1, Sec. 4, Roosevelt Rd., Taipei, 10617, Taiwan
| | - Fuko Matsuda
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, 113-8657, Japan
| | - Haruhiko Kosek
- Center for Integrative Medical Sciences (IMS), RIEKN, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 230-0045, Japan
| | - You-Tzung Chen
- Research Center for Developmental Biology and Regenerative Medicine, National Taiwan University, 10617, Taipei, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Medical Genomics and Proteomics, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, 10055, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Sheng-Hsiang Li
- Department of Medical Research, MacKay Memorial Hospital, 25160, Tamsui, Taiwan
| | - Pei-Shiue Tsai
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, National Taiwan University, No. 1, Sec. 4, Roosevelt Rd., Taipei, 10617, Taiwan.
- Graduate Institute of Veterinary Medicine, National Taiwan University, 10617, Taipei, Taiwan.
- Research Center for Developmental Biology and Regenerative Medicine, National Taiwan University, 10617, Taipei, Taiwan.
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7
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Caponnetto A, Ferrara C, Fazzio A, Agosta N, Scribano M, Vento ME, Borzì P, Barbagallo C, Stella M, Ragusa M, Scollo P, Barbagallo D, Purrello M, Di Pietro C, Battaglia R. A Circular RNA Derived from the Pumilio 1 Gene Could Regulate PTEN in Human Cumulus Cells. Genes (Basel) 2024; 15:124. [PMID: 38275605 PMCID: PMC10815046 DOI: 10.3390/genes15010124] [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: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
CircRNAs are a class of non-coding RNAs able to regulate gene expression at multiple levels. Their involvement in physiological processes, as well as their altered regulation in different human diseases, both tumoral and non-tumoral, is well documented. However, little is known about their involvement in female reproduction. This study aims to identify circRNAs potentially involved in reproductive women's health. Candidate circRNAs expressed in ovary and sponging miRNAs, already known to be expressed in the ovary, were selected by a computational approach. Using real time PCR, we verified their expression and identified circPUM1 as the most interesting candidate circRNA for further analyses. We assessed the expression of circPUM1 and its linear counterpart in all the follicle compartments and, using a computational and experimental approach, identified circPUM1 direct and indirect targets, miRNAs and mRNAs, respectively, in cumulus cells. We found that both circPUM1 and its mRNA host gene are co-expressed in all the follicle compartments and proposed circPUM1 as a potential regulator of PTEN, finding a strong positive correlation between circPUM1 and PTEN mRNA. These results suggest a possible regulation of PTEN by circPUM1 in cumulus cells and point out the important role of circRNA inside the pathways related to follicle growth and oocyte maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Caponnetto
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Biology and Genetics “G. Sichel”, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (C.F.); (A.F.); (C.B.); (M.S.); (M.R.); (D.B.); (M.P.); (C.D.P.); (R.B.)
| | - Carmen Ferrara
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Biology and Genetics “G. Sichel”, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (C.F.); (A.F.); (C.B.); (M.S.); (M.R.); (D.B.); (M.P.); (C.D.P.); (R.B.)
- Department of Physics and Astronomy “Ettore Majorana”, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Anna Fazzio
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Biology and Genetics “G. Sichel”, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (C.F.); (A.F.); (C.B.); (M.S.); (M.R.); (D.B.); (M.P.); (C.D.P.); (R.B.)
- Department of Physics and Astronomy “Ettore Majorana”, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Noemi Agosta
- Department of General Surgery and Medical-Surgical Specialties, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (N.A.); (M.S.)
| | - Marianna Scribano
- Department of General Surgery and Medical-Surgical Specialties, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (N.A.); (M.S.)
| | - Maria Elena Vento
- IVF Unit, Cannizzaro Hospital, 95123 Catania, Italy; (M.E.V.); (P.B.)
| | - Placido Borzì
- IVF Unit, Cannizzaro Hospital, 95123 Catania, Italy; (M.E.V.); (P.B.)
| | - Cristina Barbagallo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Biology and Genetics “G. Sichel”, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (C.F.); (A.F.); (C.B.); (M.S.); (M.R.); (D.B.); (M.P.); (C.D.P.); (R.B.)
| | - Michele Stella
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Biology and Genetics “G. Sichel”, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (C.F.); (A.F.); (C.B.); (M.S.); (M.R.); (D.B.); (M.P.); (C.D.P.); (R.B.)
- Department of Physics and Astronomy “Ettore Majorana”, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Marco Ragusa
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Biology and Genetics “G. Sichel”, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (C.F.); (A.F.); (C.B.); (M.S.); (M.R.); (D.B.); (M.P.); (C.D.P.); (R.B.)
| | - Paolo Scollo
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Kore University, 94100 Enna, Italy;
- Maternal and Child Department, Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, Cannizzaro Hospital, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Davide Barbagallo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Biology and Genetics “G. Sichel”, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (C.F.); (A.F.); (C.B.); (M.S.); (M.R.); (D.B.); (M.P.); (C.D.P.); (R.B.)
| | - Michele Purrello
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Biology and Genetics “G. Sichel”, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (C.F.); (A.F.); (C.B.); (M.S.); (M.R.); (D.B.); (M.P.); (C.D.P.); (R.B.)
| | - Cinzia Di Pietro
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Biology and Genetics “G. Sichel”, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (C.F.); (A.F.); (C.B.); (M.S.); (M.R.); (D.B.); (M.P.); (C.D.P.); (R.B.)
| | - Rosalia Battaglia
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Biology and Genetics “G. Sichel”, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (C.F.); (A.F.); (C.B.); (M.S.); (M.R.); (D.B.); (M.P.); (C.D.P.); (R.B.)
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8
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Camozzi MGM, Saturnino KC, Machado MRF, Gastal GDA, Moreira CN, Alves BG. Cystic endometrial hyperplasia-pyometra syndrome impairs the preantral follicle reserve in domestic bitches (Canis familiaris). Reprod Biol 2023; 23:100813. [PMID: 37832392 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2023.100813] [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: 02/19/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023]
Abstract
Cystic endometrial hyperplasia (CEH)-pyometra syndrome is the most common uterine pathological condition reported in breeding bitches, however, their described effects on fertility are limited to uterine disorders and conception rates. As the preantral follicle population represents the available reserve of gametes recruited during the lifespan, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of CEH-pyometra syndrome on the: (i) preantral follicle morphology, (ii) developing follicle rates, and (iii) preantral follicle and stromal cell densities. Ovarian fragments from bitches subjected to elective or therapeutic ovariohysterectomy were allocated according to uterine diagnosis as follows: control (n = 7, clinically healthy), CEH-mucometra (n = 8, uterine lumen filled with a sterile mucus), and pyometra (n = 17, presence of a purulent mucus) groups. Overall, the control group had 3.4 and 4.1-fold higher probability (P < 0.0001) of the presence of normal preantral follicles compared with CEH-mucometra and pyometra groups, respectively. Moreover, ovarian fragments from the pyometra group showed an increase in the percentage of developing follicles (P < 0.05) compared to the control. Both CEH-mucometra and pyometra groups showed lower (P < 0.05) preantral follicle and stromal cell densities (P < 0.05) compared to the control. In summary, the CEH-pyometra syndrome decreased the percentage of morphologically normal follicles and enhanced the developing follicle rates. Additionally, a reduction of preantral follicle and stromal cell densities suggests that the inappropriate uterine environment induced by CEH-pyometra syndrome can lead to premature depletion of ovarian reserve.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mylene G M Camozzi
- Postgraduate Program in Animal Bioscience, Federal University of Jataí, GO, Brazil
| | - Klaus C Saturnino
- Postgraduate Program in Animal Bioscience, Federal University of Jataí, GO, Brazil
| | - Mônica R F Machado
- Postgraduate Program in Animal Bioscience, Federal University of Jataí, GO, Brazil
| | - Gustavo D A Gastal
- Instituto Nacional de Investigación Agropecuaria, Estación Experimental INIA La Estanzuela, Colonia, Uruguay
| | - Cecília N Moreira
- Postgraduate Program in Animal Bioscience, Federal University of Jataí, GO, Brazil
| | - Benner G Alves
- Postgraduate Program in Animal Bioscience, Federal University of Jataí, GO, Brazil; Conception Biosciences Inc., Berkeley, CA, USA.
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9
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Tan Z, Gong X, Wang CC, Zhang T, Huang J. Diminished Ovarian Reserve in Endometriosis: Insights from In Vitro, In Vivo, and Human Studies-A Systematic Review. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15967. [PMID: 37958954 PMCID: PMC10647261 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242115967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis, a prevalent disorder in women of reproductive age, is often associated with undesired infertility. Ovarian reserve, an essential measure of ovarian function that is crucial for maintaining fecundity, is frequently diminished in women with endometriosis. Though the causative relationship between endometriosis and reduced ovarian reserve is not fully understood due to the lack of standardized and precise measurements of ovarian reserve, there is ongoing discussion regarding the impact of interventions for endometriosis on ovarian reserve. Therefore, in this review, we investigate articles that have related keywords and which were also published in recent years. Thereafter, we provide a comprehensive summary of evidence from in vitro, in vivo, and human studies, thereby shedding light on the decreased ovarian reserve in endometriosis. This research consolidates evidence from in vitro, in vivo, and human studies on the diminished ovarian reserve associated with endometriosis, as well as enhances our understanding of whether and how endometriosis, as well as its interventions, contribute to reductions in ovarian reserve. Furthermore, we explore potential strategies to modify existing therapy options that could help prevent diminished ovarian reserve in patients with endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhouyurong Tan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China; (Z.T.); (X.G.); (C.C.W.)
| | - Xue Gong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China; (Z.T.); (X.G.); (C.C.W.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen 518172, China
| | - Chi Chiu Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China; (Z.T.); (X.G.); (C.C.W.)
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Chinese University of Hong Kong-Sichuan University Joint Laboratory in Reproductive Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Reproduction and Development, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Tao Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China; (Z.T.); (X.G.); (C.C.W.)
| | - Jin Huang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China; (Z.T.); (X.G.); (C.C.W.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen 518172, China
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10
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Kalous J, Aleshkina D, Anger M. A Role of PI3K/Akt Signaling in Oocyte Maturation and Early Embryo Development. Cells 2023; 12:1830. [PMID: 37508495 PMCID: PMC10378481 DOI: 10.3390/cells12141830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Revised: 06/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
A serine/threonine-specific protein kinase B (PKB), also known as Akt, is a key factor in the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt signaling pathway that regulates cell survival, metabolism and proliferation. Akt phosphorylates many downstream specific substrates, which subsequently control the nuclear envelope breakdown (NEBD), centrosome maturation, spindle assembly, chromosome segregation, and cytokinesis. In vertebrates, Akt is also an important player during oogenesis and preimplantation development. In the signaling pathways regulating mRNA translation, Akt is involved in the control of mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) and thereby regulates the activity of a translational repressor, the eukaryotic initiation factor 4E (eIF4E) binding protein 1 (4E-BP1). In this review, we summarize the functions of Akt in mitosis, meiosis and early embryonic development. Additionally, the role of Akt in the regulation of mRNA translation is addressed with respect to the significance of this process during early development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaroslav Kalous
- Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, 277 21 Libechov, Czech Republic
| | - Daria Aleshkina
- Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, 277 21 Libechov, Czech Republic
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Albertov 6, 128 00 Praha, Czech Republic
| | - Martin Anger
- Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, 277 21 Libechov, Czech Republic
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11
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Coxir SA, Costa GMJ, Santos CFD, Alvarenga RDLLS, Lacerda SMDSN. From in vivo to in vitro: exploring the key molecular and cellular aspects of human female gametogenesis. Hum Cell 2023:10.1007/s13577-023-00921-7. [PMID: 37237248 DOI: 10.1007/s13577-023-00921-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Human oogenesis is a highly complex and not yet fully understood process due to ethical and technological barriers that limit studies in the field. In this context, replicating female gametogenesis in vitro would not only provide a solution for some infertility problems, but also be an excellent study model to better understand the biological mechanisms that determine the formation of the female germline. In this review, we explore the main cellular and molecular aspects involved in human oogenesis and folliculogenesis in vivo, from the specification of primordial germ cells (PGCs) to the formation of the mature oocyte. We also sought to describe the important bidirectional relationship between the germ cell and the follicular somatic cells. Finally, we address the main advances and different methodologies used in the search for obtaining cells of the female germline in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Abreu Coxir
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Guilherme Mattos Jardim Costa
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Camilla Fernandes Dos Santos
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, 31270-901, Brazil
| | | | - Samyra Maria Dos Santos Nassif Lacerda
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, 31270-901, Brazil.
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12
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Xu C, Ye Q, Ye C, Liu S. circACTR2 attenuates gemcitabine chemoresiatance in pancreatic cancer through PTEN mediated PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. Biol Direct 2023; 18:14. [PMID: 36991449 PMCID: PMC10061898 DOI: 10.1186/s13062-023-00368-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recently, accumulating studies have unveiled that circRNAs exert critical function in a variety of tumor biological processes including chemoresistance. Our previous study has found circACTR2 is significantly down-regulated in acquired gemcitabine (GEM)- resistant pancreatic cancer (PC) cells, which has not been well-explored. Our study aimed to research the function and molecular mechanism of circACTR2 in PC chemoresistance. METHODS qRT-PCR and western blot analysis was performed to detect gene expression. The effect of circACTR2 on PC GEM resistance were examined by CCK-8 and flow cytometry assays. Whether circACTR2 could sponge miR-221-3p and regulate PTEN expression were determined by bioinformatics analysis, RNA pull-down, and Dual-luciferase reporter assay. RESULTS circACTR2 was notably down-regulated in a panel of GEM-resistant PC cells lines, and negatively associated with aggressive phenotype and poor prognosis of PC. circACTR2 downregulation contributed to GEM chemoresistance of PC cells with decreased S phase ratio of cell cycle and cell apoptosis, as confirmed by gain- and loss-of-function assays in vitro. In addition, circACTR2 overexpression retarded GEM resistance in vivo. Further, circACTR2 acted as a ceRNA against miR-221-3p, which directly targeted PTEN. The mechanistic studies revealed that loss of circACTR2 promoted GEM resistance in PC through activating the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway by downregulating PTEN expression in a miR-221-3p dependent manner. CONCLUSIONS circACTR2 reversed the chemoresistance of PC cells to GEM through inhibiting PI3K/AKT signaling pathway by sponging miR-221-3p and upregulating PTEN expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Xu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230001, Anhui, P.R. China.
| | - Qinwen Ye
- Department of Gastroenterology, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230001, Anhui, P.R. China
| | - Chao Ye
- Department of Gastroenterology, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230001, Anhui, P.R. China
| | - Shaojun Liu
- Department of Gastrointestinal surgery, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
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13
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Resolving the challenge of insoluble production of mature human growth differentiation factor 9 protein (GDF9) in E. coli using bicistronic expression with thioredoxin. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 230:123225. [PMID: 36649874 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.123225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2022] [Revised: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Growth differentiation factor 9 (GDF9) is an oocyte-derived protein with fundamental functions in folliculogenesis. While the crucial contributions of GDF9 in follicular survival have been revealed, crystallographic studies of GDF9 structure have not yet been carried out, essentially due to the insoluble expression of GDF9 in E. coli and lack of appropriate source for structural studies. Therefore, in this study, we investigated the impact of different expression rate of bacterial thioredoxin (TrxA) using bicistronic expression constructs to induce the soluble expression of mature human GDF9 (hGDF9) driven by T7 promoter in E. coli. Our findings revealed that in BL21(DE3), the high rate of TrxA co-expression at 30 °C was sufficiently potent for the soluble expression of hGDF9 and reduction of inclusion body formation by 4 fold. We also successfully confirmed the bioactivity of the purified soluble hGDF9 protein by evaluation of follicle-stimulating hormone receptor gene expression in bovine cumulus cells derived from small follicles. This study is the first to present an effective approach for expression of bioactive form of hGDF9 using TrxA co-expression in E. coli, which may unravel the current issues regarding structural analysis of hGDF9 protein and consequently provide a better insight into hGDF9 functions and interactions.
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14
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Wu Y, Huang J, Chen H, Tao H, He Y, Yang G, Zha Q, Lash GE, Li P. Tumor-Derived Oxidative Stress Triggers Ovarian Follicle Loss in Breast Cancer. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2023; 193:608-623. [PMID: 36804378 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2023.01.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Revised: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2023]
Abstract
Breast cancer is a common indication for ovarian cryopreservation. However, whether the grafting ovarian tissue meets functional requirements, as well as the need for additional interventions, remains unclear. The current study demonstrates abnormal serum hormones in breast cancer in humans and breast cancer cell line-derived tumor-bearing mice, and for the first time shows tumor-induced loss of primordial and growing follicles and the number of follicles being lost to either growth or atresia. A gene signature of tumor-bearing mice demonstrates the disturbed regulatory network of steroidogenesis, which links to mitochondria dysfunction in oocytes and granulosa cells via the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase signaling pathway. Notably, increased reactive oxygen species are identified in serum and ovarian tissues in tumor-bearing mice. Furthermore, supplementation with vitamin C promotes follicular quiescence, repairing tumor-induced follicle loss via inactivation of the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase-Akt-mammalian target of rapamycin pathway, indicating that antioxidants should be a potential fertility therapy to achieve more numbers of healthy follicles ready for ovarian cryopreservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongqi Wu
- Department of Pathology, Jinan University School of Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jieqiong Huang
- Department of Pathology, Jinan University School of Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hui Chen
- Department of Pathology, Jinan University School of Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Huan Tao
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yunbiao He
- Department of Medical Statistics, Jinan University School of Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Guang Yang
- Department of Pathology, Jinan University School of Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qingbing Zha
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Gendie E Lash
- Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Institute of Pediatrics, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Ping Li
- Department of Pathology, Jinan University School of Medicine, Guangzhou, China; Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Heyuan, China.
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15
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Lei Z, Ali I, Yang M, Yang C, Li Y, Li L. Non-Esterified Fatty Acid-Induced Apoptosis in Bovine Granulosa Cells via ROS-Activated PI3K/AKT/FoxO1 Pathway. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:antiox12020434. [PMID: 36829992 PMCID: PMC9952034 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12020434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 02/05/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-esterified fatty acid (NEFA), one of negative energy balance (NEB)'s most well-known products, has a significant impact on cows' reproductive potential. Our study used an in vitro model to investigate the deleterious effects of NEFA on bovine granulosa cells (BGCs) and its underlying molecular mechanism. The results showed that high levels of NEFA led to the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), increased the expression of apoptosis-related factors such as Bcl2-Associated X/B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bax/Bcl-2) and Caspase-3, and down-regulated steroid synthesis-related genes such as sterol regulatory element binding protein 1 (SREBP-1), cytochrome P450c17 (CYP17), and cytochrome P450 aromatase (CYP19), to promote oxidative stress, cell apoptosis, and steroid hormone synthesis disorders in BGCs. In addition, NEFA significantly inhibited phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) and phosphorylated protein kinase B (p-AKT) activity and increased forkhead box O1 (FoxO1) expression. To further explore the role of the PI3K/AKT/FoxO1 signaling pathway in NEFA, we found that pretreatment with AKT-specific activator SC79 (5 mg/mL) for 2 h or transfection with FoxO1 knockdown siRNA in BGCs could alleviate the negative effects of NEFA treatment by decreasing Bax/Bcl-2 ratio and Caspase-3 expression, and upregulating SREBP-1, CYP17, and CYP19 expression. Meanwhile, SC79 significantly inhibited NEFA-induced dephosphorylation and massive nuclear translocation of FoxO1. Taken together, the NEFA induced oxidative stress, apoptosis, and steroid hormone synthesis disorders in BGCs by inhibiting the PI3K/AKT pathway that regulates FoxO1 phosphorylation and nuclear translocation. Our findings help to clarify the molecular mechanisms underlying the negative effects of high levels of NEFA on BGCs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Lian Li
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +86-25-84395314
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16
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Li X, Yin X, Bao H, Liu C. Circular RNA ITCH increases sorafenib-sensitivity in hepatocellular carcinoma via sequestering miR-20b-5p and modulating the downstream PTEN-PI3K/Akt pathway. Mol Cell Probes 2023; 67:101877. [PMID: 36442661 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcp.2022.101877] [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: 07/25/2022] [Revised: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUNDS Sorafenib-resistance leads to poor prognosis and high mortality in advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and this study aims to investigate the functional role of a circular RNA ITCH (circITCH) in regulating the sorafenib-resistance of HCC and its underlying mechanisms. METHODS The expression of circITCH in HCC tissues and cell lines were detected by performing quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. Sorafenib-resistant HCC cells were transfected with PLCDH-circITCH to upregulate circITCH and intervened with sorafenib, and MTT assay, flow cytometry and transwell assay were used to test the cell viability, apoptosis and migration ability, respectively. The downstream target of circITCH were explored by using bioinformatic analysis, dual luciferase reporter system and Western blot. RESULTS CircITCH was significantly down-regulated in HCC tissues and cell lines, compared with their normal counterparts. Especially, in contrast with the sorafenib-sensitive HCC cells, continuous sorafenib treatment decreased the expression levels of circITCH in the sorafenib-resistant HCC cells. Overexpression of circITCH increased sorafenib-sensitivity, promoted cell apoptosis and reduced cell migration abilities in the sorafenib-resistant HCC cells. Mechanically, circITCH elevated PTEN expression to inactivate the PI3K/Akt signals through negatively regulating miR-20b-5p in HCC, and upregulating miR-20b-5p or inhibiting PTEN abolished the enhancing effect of circITCH overexpression on sorafenib-induced cytotoxicity in sorafenib-resistant HCC cells. CONCLUSION Taken together, this study proves that circITCH enhances sorafenib-sensitivity in sorafenib-resistant HCC cells via regulating the miR-20b-5p/PTEN/PI3K/Akt signaling cascade, which highlights the potential value of circITCH as a target for enhancing the sorafenib-sensitivity in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaodong Li
- Department of General Surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150001, China.
| | - Xuedong Yin
- Department of General Surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150001, China.
| | - Heyi Bao
- Department of General Surgery, Qiqihar First Hospital, Qiqihar, 161005, China.
| | - Chang Liu
- Department of General Surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150001, China.
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17
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Bao Y, Li X, El-Samahy MA, Yang H, Wang Z, Yang F, Yao X, Wang F. Exploration the role of INHBA in Hu sheep granulosa cells using RNA-Seq. Theriogenology 2023; 197:198-208. [PMID: 36525859 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2022.12.006] [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: 03/30/2022] [Revised: 11/26/2022] [Accepted: 12/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Activin/inhibin is an important factor for the fecundity of Hu sheep, and it is involved in follicular development in ovaries. Inhibin subunit beta A (INHBA) participates in the synthesis of activin A and inhibin A. In this study, we also noted a positive correlation between INHBA level and the secretion of both activin A and inhibin A in culture medium. Nevertheless, both knockdown and overexpression of INHBA downregulated the expression of Inhibin Subunit Alpha (INHA). Based on RNA-Sequencing, we further examined the effect and molecular mechanism of INHBA knockdown in GCs on mRNA expression. A total of 1,687 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified (Fold change ≥ 2; False-discovory-rates (FDR) ≤ 0.01), of which 602 genes were upregulated and 1,087 genes were downregulated in the INHBA interference group compared with the control groups. Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment indicated that these DEGs were mainly involved in the regulation of cell cycle, protein serine/threonine kinase activity, and actin cytoskeleton reorganization. Moreover, DEGs were significantly enriched in 40 Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways, including P53, progesterone-mediated oocyte maturation, and PI3K-AKT signaling pathways. We also noted a positive correlation between INHBA level and many PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway-related genes at the gene or/and protein expression. Overall, this study may contribute to a better understanding of the roles of INHBA on GCs of prolific sheep, as well as the molecular effect of low INHBA expression on GCs, clarifying some reproductive failures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongjin Bao
- Hu Sheep Academy, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China; Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Xiaodan Li
- Hu Sheep Academy, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China; Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - M A El-Samahy
- Hu Sheep Academy, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China; Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China; Animal Production Research Institute, ARC, Ministry of Agriculture, Giza, Egypt
| | - Hua Yang
- Hu Sheep Academy, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China; Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Zhibo Wang
- Hu Sheep Academy, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China; Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Fan Yang
- Hu Sheep Academy, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China; Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Xiaolei Yao
- Hu Sheep Academy, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China; Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Feng Wang
- Hu Sheep Academy, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China; Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China.
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18
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Liu X, Song Y, Zhou F, Zhang C, Li F, Hu R, Ma W, Song K, Tang Z, Zhang M. Network and experimental pharmacology on mechanism of Si-Wu-tang improving ovarian function in a mouse model of premature ovarian failure induced by cyclophosphamide. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 301:115842. [PMID: 36265674 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2022.115842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2022] [Revised: 10/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Si-Wu-Tang (SWT) has become a common basic prescription for supplementing blood and regulating menstruation, and enjoys the reputation of "the first prescription in gynecology". It is often reported in the treatment of premature ovarian failure (POF). However, knowledge of its specific mechanism is still limited. AIM OF THE STUDY This study aimed to identify the potential effects and underlying mechanisms of SWT on POF. MATERIALS AND METHODS After confirming the therapeutic effect of SWT on POF mice induced by cyclophosphamide, we further clarified the promoting effect of SWT on ovarian follicle development by detecting the expression of key factors related to follicle development in the ovary in different ways.Then, network pharmacology and gene expression profiling of POF from the GEO database were used to clarify the underlying mechanisms. Molecular biology and molecular docking analysis were applied for final mechanism verification. RESULTS Our results showed that SWT increased body weight, ovarian index, reversed disordered serum hormone levels, and menstrual cycle in POF mice. After SWT treatment, the number of follicles at all levels in mice with POF also recovered. Using molecular biology techniques, it was proven that SWT can improve follicle development and angiogenesis in the microenvironment. The network pharmacology and gene expression profiling from the GEO database indicated that the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway may be the reason why SWT improves ovarian function in mice with POF. Subsequently, further Western blot and immunoprecipitation indicated that SWT indeed inhibited the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway in mice with POF. In addition, this conclusion was further confirmed by molecular docking experiments. CONCLUSIONS SWT can improve ovarian function in POF mice induced by cyclophosphamide, and its mechanism is related to the inhibition of the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xia Liu
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China; Department of Neurology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
| | - Yufan Song
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
| | - Fanru Zhou
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
| | - Chu Zhang
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
| | - Fan Li
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
| | - Runan Hu
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
| | - Wenwen Ma
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
| | - Kunkun Song
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
| | - Zhouping Tang
- Department of Neurology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
| | - Mingmin Zhang
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
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19
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Hashemi M, Mirzaei S, Zandieh MA, Rezaei S, Amirabbas Kakavand, Dehghanpour A, Esmaeili N, Ghahremanzade A, Saebfar H, Heidari H, Salimimoghadam S, Taheriazam A, Entezari M, Ahn KS. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in hepatocellular carcinoma progression: Biological functions and new therapeutic targets. PROGRESS IN BIOPHYSICS AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2023; 177:207-228. [PMID: 36584761 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbiomolbio.2022.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Revised: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Liver is an important organ in body that performs vital functions such as detoxification. Liver is susceptible to development of cancers, and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is among them. 75-85% of liver cancer cases are related to HCC. Therefore, much attention has been directed towards understanding factors mediating HCC progression. LncRNAs are epigenetic factors with more than 200 nucleotides in length located in both nucleus and cytoplasm and they are promising candidates in cancer therapy. Directing studies towards understanding function of lncRNAs in HCC is of importance. LncRNAs regulate cell cycle progression and growth of HCC cells, and they can also induce/inhibit apoptosis in tumor cells. LncRNAs affect invasion and metastasis in HCC mainly by epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) mechanism. Revealing the association between lncRNAs and downstream signaling pathways in HCC is discussed in the current manuscript. Infectious diseases can affect lncRNA expression in mediating HCC development and then, altered expression level of lncRNA is associated with drug resistance and radio-resistance. Biomarker application of lncRNAs and their role in prognosis and diagnosis of HCC are also discussed to pave the way for treatment of HCC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehrdad Hashemi
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence Sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran; Department of Genetics, Faculty of Advanced Science and Technology, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sepideh Mirzaei
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Islamic Azad University, Science and Research Branch, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Arad Zandieh
- Department of Food Hygiene and Quality Control, Division of Epidemiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sahar Rezaei
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Islamic Azad University, Science and Research Branch, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amirabbas Kakavand
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence Sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amir Dehghanpour
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence Sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Negin Esmaeili
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence Sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Azin Ghahremanzade
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence Sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamidreza Saebfar
- European University Association, League of European Research Universities, University of Milan, Italy
| | - Hajar Heidari
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Public Health University at Albany State University of New York, Albany, NY, 12208, USA
| | - Shokooh Salimimoghadam
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Afshin Taheriazam
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence Sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran; Department of Orthopedics, Faculty of Medicine, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Maliheh Entezari
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence Sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran; Department of Genetics, Faculty of Advanced Science and Technology, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Kwang Seok Ahn
- College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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20
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Li HL, Deng NH, He XS, Li YH. Small biomarkers with massive impacts: PI3K/AKT/mTOR signalling and microRNA crosstalk regulate nasopharyngeal carcinoma. Biomark Res 2022; 10:52. [PMID: 35883139 PMCID: PMC9327212 DOI: 10.1186/s40364-022-00397-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is one of the most common malignant tumours of the head and neck in Southeast Asia and southern China. The Phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B (AKT)/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signalling pathway is involved in processes related to tumour initiation/progression, such as proliferation, apoptosis, metastasis, and drug resistance, and is closely related to the clinicopathological features of NPC. In addition, key genes involved in the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signalling pathway undergo many changes in NPC. More interestingly, a growing body of evidence suggests an interaction between this signalling pathway and microRNAs (miRNAs), a class of small noncoding RNAs. Therefore, in this review, we discuss the interactions between key components of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signalling pathway and various miRNAs and their importance in NPC pathology and explore potential diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hai-Long Li
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Cellular and Molecular Pathology in Hunan Province, Cancer Research Institute of Medical College, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, 421001, Hengyang, Hunan, P.R. China
| | - Nian-Hua Deng
- Key Lab for Arteriosclerology of Hunan Province, International Joint Laboratory for Arteriosclerotic Disease Research of Hunan Province, Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, 421001, Hengyang, Hunan, P.R. China
| | - Xiu-Sheng He
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Cellular and Molecular Pathology in Hunan Province, Cancer Research Institute of Medical College, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, 421001, Hengyang, Hunan, P.R. China.
| | - Yue-Hua Li
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, 421001, Hengyang, P.R. China.
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21
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Pal S, Haldar C, Verma R. Melatonin attenuates LPS-induced ovarian toxicity via modulation of SIRT-1, PI3K/pAkt, pErk1/2 and NFĸB/COX-2 expressions. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2022; 451:116173. [PMID: 35878799 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2022.116173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2022] [Revised: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
The association between inflammation and metabolic disturbances leads to various female pathophysiological conditions. Bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS), found in the outer membrane of gram-negative bacteria, elicits an oxidative and inflammatory response that profoundly interferes with female reproductive health. We investigated the ameliorative action of melatonin on LPS-induced ovarian pathophysiology in golden hamsters, Mesocricetus auratus. Hamsters were administered with exogenous melatonin (5 mg/kg BW) and LPS (100 μg/kg BW) intraperitoneally for 7 days. LPS treatment impaired ovarian folliculogenesis as evident by histoarchitecture (elevated number of atretic follicles, reduced number of growing follicles and corpus luteum) and steroidogenesis (decreased aromatase/ERα, estradiol and progesterone). On the other hand, LPS administration also perturbed thyroid hormone (T3 and T4) homeostasis, ovarian melatonin receptor (MT-1) expression, antioxidant potential (SOD and catalase) and concomitantly elevated nitro-oxidative stress (decreased SOD, catalase and elevated CRP, TNFα and nitrate/nitrite level) and inflammatory load (NFĸB and COX-2) which culminated into ovarian follicular apoptosis (elevated caspase-3). LPS also disrupted metabolic homeostasis as indicated by hyperinsulinemia with a simultaneous decrease in ovarian IR/GLUT-4 and glucose content. Moreover, LPS treatment decreased expressions of key markers of ovarian physiology (SIRT-1, pErk1/2, PI3K and pAkt). Melatonin co-treatment with LPS improve these detrimental changes proposing melatonin as a potent therapeutic candidate against ovarian dysfunction induced by endotoxin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sriparna Pal
- Reproduction and Molecular Biology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Institute of Science, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi 221005, U.P., India.
| | - Chandana Haldar
- Reproduction and Molecular Biology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Institute of Science, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi 221005, U.P., India.
| | - Rakesh Verma
- Reproduction and Molecular Biology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Institute of Science, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi 221005, U.P., India.
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22
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Evaluation of a Dual PI3K/mTOR Inhibitor PF-04691502 against Bladder Cancer Cells. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2022; 2022:8110796. [PMID: 35783514 PMCID: PMC9249467 DOI: 10.1155/2022/8110796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Targeting the phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase/protein kinase B/mammalian target of rapamycin (PI3K/Akt/mTOR) signalling pathway is a promising strategy for the treatment of various cancers, including bladder cancer (BC). PF-04691502 is a relatively novel dual PI3K/mTOR inhibitor that exerts inhibitory effects against various cancer cells. However, the effects of PF-04691502 in BC cells have not been clarified thus far. This study aimed to evaluate the antitumour effects of PF-04691502 and the mechanisms underlying these antitumour effects in BC cells. The effects of PF-04691502 on the viabilities of BC cells were examined using the cell counting kit 8 (CCK-8) assay. Cell migration and invasion were measured using the wound healing assay and transwell assay, respectively. Cellular apoptosis was determined using flow cytometry. The change in the cellular protein levels was measured using western blotting. siRNA was used to study the role of PTEN in the antitumour effects of PF-04691502. PF-04691502 inhibited the proliferation, migration, and invasion of BC cells. Additionally, PF-04691502 induced apoptosis of BC cells via the intrinsic pathway. PF-04691502 inhibited the expression of Mcl-1 and the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway in BC cells. In addition, PF-04691502 increased the apoptosis induced by various chemotherapeutic agents in BC cells. Taken together, PF-04691502 could be used alone or in combination with other chemotherapeutic agents in the treatment of BC.
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23
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Zhang FL, Zhang XY, Zhao JX, Zhu KX, Liu SQ, Zhang T, Sun YJ, Wang JJ, Shen W. Multispecies comparative analysis reveals transcriptional specificity during Mongolian horse testicular development. Reprod Domest Anim 2022; 57:1295-1306. [PMID: 35789122 DOI: 10.1111/rda.14203] [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: 05/30/2022] [Revised: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Mongolian horses have been bred and used for labor and transport for centuries. Nevertheless, traits of testicular development in Mongolian horses have rarely been studied; particularly, studies regarding the transcriptional regulation characteristics of testicular development are lacking. In this paper, transcription specificity during testicular development in Mongolian horses is highlighted via a multispecies comparative analysis and weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA). Interestingly, the results showed that most genes were up-regulated in the testes after sexual maturity, which is a phenomenon conserved across species. Moreover, we observed nine key genes involved in regulating Mongolian horse testicular development. Notably, unique transcription signatures of testicular development in Mongolian horses are emphasized, which provides a novel insight into the mechanistic study of their testicular development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fa-Li Zhang
- College of Life Sciences, Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Biotechnology in Universities of Shandong, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China.,College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an, China
| | - Xiao-Yuan Zhang
- College of Life Sciences, Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Biotechnology in Universities of Shandong, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
| | - Jin-Xin Zhao
- College of Life Sciences, Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Biotechnology in Universities of Shandong, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
| | - Ke-Xin Zhu
- College of Life Sciences, Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Biotechnology in Universities of Shandong, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
| | - Shu-Qin Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
| | - Teng Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Regulation and Breeding of Grassland Livestock, College of Life Sciences, Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot, China
| | - Yu-Jiang Sun
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China.,Dongying Vocational Institute, Dongying, China
| | - Jun-Jie Wang
- College of Life Sciences, Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Biotechnology in Universities of Shandong, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
| | - Wei Shen
- College of Life Sciences, Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Biotechnology in Universities of Shandong, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
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24
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Roberts JF, Jeff Huang CC. Bovine models for human ovarian diseases. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2022; 189:101-154. [PMID: 35595347 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2022.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
During early embryonic development, late fetal growth, puberty, adult reproductive years, and advanced aging, bovine and human ovaries closely share molecular pathways and hormonal signaling mechanisms. Other similarities between these species include the size of ovaries, length of gestation, ovarian follicular and luteal dynamics, and pathophysiology of ovarian diseases. As an economically important agriculture species, cattle are a foundational species in fertility research with decades of groundwork using physiologic, genetic, and therapeutic experimental techniques. Many technologies used in modern reproductive medicine, such as ovulation induction using hormonal therapy, were first used in cows before human trials. Human ovarian diseases with naturally occurring bovine correlates include premature ovary insufficiency (POI), polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), and sex-cord stromal tumors (SCSTs). This article presents an overview of bovine ovary research related to causes of infertility, ovarian diseases, diagnostics, and therapeutics, emphasizing where the bovine model can offer advantages over other lab animals for translational applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- John F Roberts
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic & Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States.
| | - Chen-Che Jeff Huang
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, United States
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25
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Caponnetto A, Battaglia R, Ferrara C, Vento ME, Borzì P, Paradiso M, Scollo P, Purrello M, Longobardi S, D’Hooghe T, Valerio D, Di Pietro C. Down-regulation of long non-coding RNAs in reproductive aging and analysis of the lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA networks in human cumulus cells. J Assist Reprod Genet 2022; 39:919-931. [PMID: 35247118 PMCID: PMC9050988 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-022-02446-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) control gene expression at multiple levels. By interacting with microRNAs (miRNAs), they regulate their mRNA targets creating dynamic regulatory networks involved in different cellular processes. Their role in follicle development and oocyte maturation has recently emerged. lncRNA deregulation has been found associated with different pathological conditions. In this study, we identified differentially expressed lncRNAs in cumulus cells (CCs) isolated from MII oocytes of advanced maternal age women and proposed ceRNA-networks involved in signaling pathways crucial in ovarian folliculogenesis and female germ cell maturation. METHODS We performed a high-throughput analysis of the expression profile of 68 lncRNAs from CCs of aged and young women by using NanoString technology. By miRNet, TarPmiR, miRTarBase, OKdb, and KEGG we predicted some ceRNA-networks involving the differentially expressed (DE) lncRNAs, miRNA interactors, and their mRNA target genes. RESULTS We identified 28 lncRNAs down-regulated in CC samples from aged women. The analysis revealed that the miRNAs binding 11 of the DE lncRNAs and their mRNA targets are included in ceRNA-networks involved in the regulation of the PI3K-Akt, FOXO, and p53 signaling pathways. CONCLUSION We proposed that the lncRNA down-regulation in CCs from aged women could influence the expression of genes encoding proteins deregulated in reproductive aging. A better understanding of the interplay of lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA networks in human CCs could increase our knowledge about the mechanisms of regulation of gene expression involved in aging, lead to the development of novel therapeutics, and improve reproductive outcomes in aged women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Caponnetto
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Biology and Genetics “Giovanni Sichel, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Rosalia Battaglia
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Biology and Genetics “Giovanni Sichel, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Carmen Ferrara
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Biology and Genetics “Giovanni Sichel, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | - Michele Purrello
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Biology and Genetics “Giovanni Sichel, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | | | - Thomas D’Hooghe
- Global Medical Affairs Fertility, R&D Healthcare, the Healthcare Business of Merck KGaA, Frankfurter Str. 250, 64293 Darmstadt, Germany
| | | | - Cinzia Di Pietro
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Biology and Genetics “Giovanni Sichel, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Italian Society of Embryology, Reproduction, Research (SIERR)
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Biology and Genetics “Giovanni Sichel, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
- IVF Unit, Cannizzaro Hospital, Catania, Italy
- Global Clinical Development, Merck Serono SpA, Rome, Italy
- Global Medical Affairs Fertility, R&D Healthcare, the Healthcare Business of Merck KGaA, Frankfurter Str. 250, 64293 Darmstadt, Germany
- Institute of Genetic Research (IRG), 80143 Naples, Italy
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26
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Wang Z, Gong C, Li Z. Molecular mechanism of ovarian toxicity of Hook.F. a study based on network pharmacology and molecular docking. Zhejiang Da Xue Xue Bao Yi Xue Ban 2022; 51:62-72. [PMID: 35576115 PMCID: PMC9109761 DOI: 10.3724/zdxbyxb-2021-0230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/14/2021] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
To explore the mechanism of ovarian toxicity of Hook. F. (TwHF) by network pharmacology and molecular docking. The candidate toxic compounds and targets of TwHF were collected by the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database and Analysis Platform (TCMSP) and the Comparative Toxicogenomics Database (CTD). Then, the potential ovarian toxic targets were obtained from CTD, and the target genes of ovarian toxicity of TwHF were analyzed using the STRING database. The protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was established by Cytoscape and analyzed by the cytoHubba plug-in to identify hub genes. Additionally, the target genes of ovarian toxicity of TwHF were subjected to Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analyses by using the R software. Finally, Discovery Studio software was used for molecular docking verification of the core toxic compounds and the hub genes. Nine candidate toxic compounds of TwHF and 56 potential ovarian toxic targets were identified in this study. Further network analysis showed that the core ovarian toxic compounds of TwHF were triptolide, kaempferol and tripterine, and the hub ovarian toxic genes included , , , , , , , , and . Besides, the GO and KEGG analysis indicated that TwHF caused ovarian toxicity through oxidative stress, reproductive system development and function, regulation of cell cycle, response to endogenous hormones and exogenous stimuli, apoptosis regulation and aging. The docking studies suggested that 3 core ovarian toxic compounds of TwHF were able to fit in the binding pocket of the 10 hub genes. TwHF may cause ovarian toxicity by acting on 10 hub genes and 140 signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiqiang Wang
- 1. Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, the 980th Hospital of the Joint Logistic Support Force of the People's Liberation Army, Shijiazhuang 050082, China
- 2. First Clinical Medical College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Caixia Gong
- of Nephrology, Shijiazhuang Ping'an Hospital, Shijiazhuang 050012, China
| | - Zhenbin Li
- 1. Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, the 980th Hospital of the Joint Logistic Support Force of the People's Liberation Army, Shijiazhuang 050082, China
- 2. First Clinical Medical College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
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27
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Mauro A, Berardinelli P, Russo V, Bernabò N, Martelli A, Nardinocchi D, Di Giacinto O, Turriani M, Barboni B. Effects of P 4 Antagonist RU486 on VEGF and Its Receptors' Signaling during the In Vivo Transition from the Preovulatory to Periovulatory Phase of Ovarian Follicles. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:13520. [PMID: 34948315 PMCID: PMC8706603 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222413520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Revised: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The development of an adequate blood vessel network is crucial for the accomplishment of ovarian follicle growth and ovulation, which is necessary to support the proliferative and endocrine functions of the follicular cells. Although the Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) through gonadotropins guides ovarian angiogenesis, the role exerted by the switch on of Progesterone (P4) during the periovulatory phase remains to be clarified. The present research aimed to investigate in vivo VEGF-mediated mechanisms by inducing the development of periovulatory follicles using a pharmacologically validated synchronization treatment carried out in presence or absence of P4 receptor antagonist RU486. Spatio-temporal expression profiles of VEGF, FLT1, and FLK1 receptors and the two major MAPK/ERKs and PI3K/AKT downstream pathways were analyzed on granulosa and on theca compartment. For the first time, the results demonstrated that in vivo administration of P4 antagonist RU486 inhibits follicular VEGF receptors' signaling mainly acting on the theca layer by downregulating the activation of ERKs and AKTs. Under the effect of RU486, periovulatory follicles' microarchitecture did not move towards the periovulatory stage. The present evidence provides new insights on P4 in vivo biological effects in driving vascular and tissue remodeling during the periovulatory phase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annunziata Mauro
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Via R. Balzarini 1, 64100 Teramo, Italy; (P.B.); (V.R.); (N.B.); (A.M.); (D.N.); (O.D.G.); (M.T.); (B.B.)
| | - Paolo Berardinelli
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Via R. Balzarini 1, 64100 Teramo, Italy; (P.B.); (V.R.); (N.B.); (A.M.); (D.N.); (O.D.G.); (M.T.); (B.B.)
| | - Valentina Russo
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Via R. Balzarini 1, 64100 Teramo, Italy; (P.B.); (V.R.); (N.B.); (A.M.); (D.N.); (O.D.G.); (M.T.); (B.B.)
| | - Nicola Bernabò
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Via R. Balzarini 1, 64100 Teramo, Italy; (P.B.); (V.R.); (N.B.); (A.M.); (D.N.); (O.D.G.); (M.T.); (B.B.)
- Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology (IBBC), National Research Council, A. Buzzati-Traverso Campus, Via E. Ramarini 32, Monterotondo Scalo, 00015 Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandra Martelli
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Via R. Balzarini 1, 64100 Teramo, Italy; (P.B.); (V.R.); (N.B.); (A.M.); (D.N.); (O.D.G.); (M.T.); (B.B.)
| | - Delia Nardinocchi
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Via R. Balzarini 1, 64100 Teramo, Italy; (P.B.); (V.R.); (N.B.); (A.M.); (D.N.); (O.D.G.); (M.T.); (B.B.)
| | - Oriana Di Giacinto
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Via R. Balzarini 1, 64100 Teramo, Italy; (P.B.); (V.R.); (N.B.); (A.M.); (D.N.); (O.D.G.); (M.T.); (B.B.)
| | - Maura Turriani
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Via R. Balzarini 1, 64100 Teramo, Italy; (P.B.); (V.R.); (N.B.); (A.M.); (D.N.); (O.D.G.); (M.T.); (B.B.)
| | - Barbara Barboni
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Via R. Balzarini 1, 64100 Teramo, Italy; (P.B.); (V.R.); (N.B.); (A.M.); (D.N.); (O.D.G.); (M.T.); (B.B.)
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28
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Mehedintu C, Frincu F, Carp-Veliscu A, Barac R, Badiu DC, Zgura A, Cirstoiu M, Bratila E, Plotogea M. A Warning Call for Fertility Preservation Methods for Women Undergoing Gonadotoxic Cancer Treatment. Medicina (B Aires) 2021; 57:medicina57121340. [PMID: 34946285 PMCID: PMC8709408 DOI: 10.3390/medicina57121340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Revised: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Malignant hematological conditions have recognized an increased incidence and require aggressive treatments. Targeted chemotherapy, accompanied or not by radiotherapy, raises the chance of defeating the disease, yet cancer protocols often associate long-term gonadal consequences, for instance, diminished or damaged ovarian reserve. The negative effect is directly proportional to the types, doses, time of administration of chemotherapy, and irradiation. Additionally, follicle damage depends on characteristics of the disease and patient, such as age, concomitant diseases, previous gynecological conditions, and ovarian reserve. Patients should be adequately informed when proceeding to gonadotoxic therapies; hence, fertility preservation should be eventually regarded as a first-intention procedure. This procedure is most beneficial when performed before the onset of cancer treatment, with the recommendation for embryos or oocytes’ cryopreservation. If not feasible or acceptable, several options can be available during or after the cancer treatment. Although not approved by medical practice, promising results after in vitro studies increase the chances of future patients to protect their fertility. This review aims to emphasize the mechanism of action and impact of chemotherapy, especially the one proven to be gonadotoxic, upon ovarian reserve and future fertility. Reduced fertility or infertility, as long-term consequences of chemotherapy and, particularly, following bone marrow transplantation, is often associated with a negative impact of recovery, social and personal life, as well as highly decreased quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Mehedintu
- “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; (C.M.); (F.F.); (A.C.-V.), (R.B.); (A.Z.); (M.C.); (E.B.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Nicolae Malaxa” Clinical Hospital, 022441 Bucharest, Romania;
| | - Francesca Frincu
- “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; (C.M.); (F.F.); (A.C.-V.), (R.B.); (A.Z.); (M.C.); (E.B.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Nicolae Malaxa” Clinical Hospital, 022441 Bucharest, Romania;
| | - Andreea Carp-Veliscu
- “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; (C.M.); (F.F.); (A.C.-V.), (R.B.); (A.Z.); (M.C.); (E.B.)
| | - Ramona Barac
- “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; (C.M.); (F.F.); (A.C.-V.), (R.B.); (A.Z.); (M.C.); (E.B.)
| | - Dumitru-Cristinel Badiu
- “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; (C.M.); (F.F.); (A.C.-V.), (R.B.); (A.Z.); (M.C.); (E.B.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +40-723226346
| | - Anca Zgura
- “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; (C.M.); (F.F.); (A.C.-V.), (R.B.); (A.Z.); (M.C.); (E.B.)
| | - Monica Cirstoiu
- “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; (C.M.); (F.F.); (A.C.-V.), (R.B.); (A.Z.); (M.C.); (E.B.)
| | - Elvira Bratila
- “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; (C.M.); (F.F.); (A.C.-V.), (R.B.); (A.Z.); (M.C.); (E.B.)
| | - Mihaela Plotogea
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Nicolae Malaxa” Clinical Hospital, 022441 Bucharest, Romania;
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