1
|
Mielnicka M, Tabaro F, Sureka R, Acurzio B, Paoletti R, Scavizzi F, Raspa M, Crevenna AH, Lapouge K, Remans K, Boulard M. Trim66's paternal deficiency causes intrauterine overgrowth. Life Sci Alliance 2024; 7:e202302512. [PMID: 38719749 PMCID: PMC11077763 DOI: 10.26508/lsa.202302512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2023] [Revised: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The tripartite motif-containing protein 66 (TRIM66, also known as TIF1-delta) is a PHD-Bromo-containing protein primarily expressed in post-meiotic male germ cells known as spermatids. Biophysical assays showed that the TRIM66 PHD-Bromodomain binds to H3 N-terminus only when lysine 4 is unmethylated. We addressed TRIM66's role in reproduction by loss-of-function genetics in the mouse. Males homozygous for Trim66-null mutations produced functional spermatozoa. Round spermatids lacking TRIM66 up-regulated a network of genes involved in histone acetylation and H3K4 methylation. Profiling of H3K4me3 patterns in the sperm produced by the Trim66-null mutant showed minor alterations below statistical significance. Unexpectedly, Trim66-null males, but not females, sired pups overweight at birth, hence revealing that Trim66 mutations cause a paternal effect phenotype.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Monika Mielnicka
- https://ror.org/01yr73893 Epigenetics and Neurobiology Unit, EMBL Rome, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Monterotondo, Italy
| | - Francesco Tabaro
- https://ror.org/01yr73893 Epigenetics and Neurobiology Unit, EMBL Rome, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Monterotondo, Italy
| | - Rahul Sureka
- https://ror.org/01yr73893 Epigenetics and Neurobiology Unit, EMBL Rome, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Monterotondo, Italy
| | - Basilia Acurzio
- https://ror.org/01yr73893 Epigenetics and Neurobiology Unit, EMBL Rome, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Monterotondo, Italy
| | | | - Ferdinando Scavizzi
- National Research Council (IBBC), CNR-Campus International Development (EMMA-INFRAFRONTIER-IMPC), Monterotondo, Italy
| | - Marcello Raspa
- National Research Council (IBBC), CNR-Campus International Development (EMMA-INFRAFRONTIER-IMPC), Monterotondo, Italy
| | - Alvaro H Crevenna
- https://ror.org/01yr73893 Epigenetics and Neurobiology Unit, EMBL Rome, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Monterotondo, Italy
| | - Karine Lapouge
- https://ror.org/01yr73893 European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Protein Expression and Purification Core Facility, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Kim Remans
- https://ror.org/01yr73893 European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Protein Expression and Purification Core Facility, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Matthieu Boulard
- https://ror.org/01yr73893 Epigenetics and Neurobiology Unit, EMBL Rome, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Monterotondo, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Wigger M, Tröder SE, Zevnik B. A simple and economic protocol for efficient in vitro fertilization using cryopreserved mouse sperm. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0259202. [PMID: 34710162 PMCID: PMC8553151 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0259202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 10/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The advent of genome editing tools like CRISPR/Cas has substantially increased the number of genetically engineered mouse models in recent years. In support of refinement and reduction, sperm cryopreservation is advantageous compared to embryo freezing for archiving and distribution of such mouse models. The in vitro fertilization using cryopreserved sperm from the most widely used C57BL/6 strain has become highly efficient in recent years due to several improvements of the procedure. However, purchase of the necessary media for routine application of the current protocol poses a constant burden on budgetary constraints. In-house media preparation, instead, is complex and requires quality control of each batch. Here, we describe a cost-effective and easily adaptable approach for in vitro fertilization using cryopreserved C57BL/6 sperm. This is mainly achieved by modification of an affordable commercial fertilization medium and a step-by-step description of all other necessary reagents. Large-scale comparison of fertilization rates from independent lines of genetically engineered C57BL/6 mice upon cryopreservation and in vitro fertilization with our approach demonstrated equal or significantly superior fertilization rates to current protocols. Our novel SEcuRe (Simple Economical set-up for Rederivation) method provides an affordable, easily adaptable and harmonized protocol for highly efficient rederivation using cryopreserved C57BL/6 sperm for a broad application of colony management in the sense of the 3Rs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Wigger
- Cluster of Excellence Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD), Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- in vivo Research Facility, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Simon E. Tröder
- Cluster of Excellence Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD), Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- in vivo Research Facility, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- * E-mail: (BZ); (SET)
| | - Branko Zevnik
- Cluster of Excellence Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD), Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- in vivo Research Facility, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- * E-mail: (BZ); (SET)
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
A human-based assisted reproduction protocol for the menstruating spiny mouse, Acomys cahirinus. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0244411. [PMID: 33370773 PMCID: PMC7769615 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0244411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2020] [Accepted: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The Egyptian or Common spiny mouse (A. cahirinus) is the first rodent species to show human-like menstruation and spontaneous decidualisation. We consider from these, and its other, human-like characteristics that this species will be a more useful and appropriate small animal model for human reproductive studies. Based on this, there is a need to develop specific laboratory-based assisted reproduction protocols including superovulation, in-vitro fertilisation, embryo cryopreservation and transfer to expand and make this model more relevant. Because standard rodent superovulation has not been successful in the spiny mouse, we have selected to test a human protocol. Female spiny mice will receive a subcutaneous GnRH agonist implant and be allowed to recover. Menstrual cycle lengths will then be allowed to stabilize prior to ovarian stimulation. After recovery, females will be injected IP once a day for 4 days with a FSH analogue, to induce follicular growth, and on day 5 will be injected IP with a hCG analogue to trigger ovulation. Females will either be culled 36hrs after trigger to collect oocytes or immediately paired with a stud male and two cell embryos collected 48hrs later. Mature oocytes will be inseminated using fresh spiny mouse spermatozoa and all in-vitro grown and in-vivo collected two cell embryos will be cryopreserved using methods developed in a close spiny mouse relative, the Mongolian gerbil. For embryo transfer, vitrified embryos will be rapidly warmed and non-surgically transferred to surrogate mice. Surrogates will be monitored until pregnancy is apparent (roughly 30 days) and then left undisturbed until birth, 38-40 days after transfer. By successfully developing robust assisted reproduction protocols in A. cahirinus we will be able to use this rodent as a more effective model for human reproduction.
Collapse
|
4
|
Bernabò N, Valbonetti L, Raspa M, Fontana A, Palestini P, Botto L, Paoletti R, Fray M, Allen S, Machado-Simoes J, Ramal-Sanchez M, Pilato S, Scavizzi F, Barboni B. Graphene Oxide Improves in vitro Fertilization in Mice With No Impact on Embryo Development and Preserves the Membrane Microdomains Architecture. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2020; 8:629. [PMID: 32612987 PMCID: PMC7308453 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2020.00629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2020] [Accepted: 05/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
During the latest years, human infertility worsened all over the world and is nowadays reputed as a global public health issue. As a consequence, the adoption of Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ARTs) such as In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) is undergoing an impressive increase. In this context, one of the most promising strategies is the innovative adoption of extra-physiological materials for advanced sperm preparation methods. Here, by using a murine model, the addition of Graphene Oxide (GO) at a specific concentration has demonstrated to increase the spermatozoa fertilizing ability in an IVF assay, finding that 0.5 μg/ml GO addition to sperm suspensions before IVF is able to increase both the number of fertilized oocytes and embryos created with a healthy offspring given by Embryo Transplantation (ET). In addition, GO treatment has been found more effective than that carried out with methyl-β-cyclodextrin, which represents the gold standard in promoting in vitro fertility of mice spermatozoa. Subsequent biochemical characterization of its interaction with male gametes has been additionally performed. As a result, it was found that GO exerts its positive effect by extracting cholesterol from membranes, without affecting the integrity of microdomains and thus preserving the sperm functions. In conclusion, GO improves IVF outcomes in vitro and in vivo, defining new perspectives for innovative strategies in the treatment of human infertility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Bernabò
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
- National Research Council – Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Rome, Italy
| | - Luca Valbonetti
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
- National Research Council – Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Rome, Italy
| | - Marcello Raspa
- National Research Council – Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonella Fontana
- Department of Pharmacy, D’Annunzio University of Chieti–Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Paola Palestini
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy
| | - Laura Botto
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Juliana Machado-Simoes
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | - Marina Ramal-Sanchez
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | - Serena Pilato
- Department of Pharmacy, D’Annunzio University of Chieti–Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Ferdinando Scavizzi
- National Research Council – Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Rome, Italy
| | - Barbara Barboni
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
DNA fragmentation index (DFI) as a measure of sperm quality and fertility in mice. Sci Rep 2020; 10:3833. [PMID: 32123279 PMCID: PMC7052244 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-60876-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2019] [Accepted: 02/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Although thousands of genetically modified mouse strains have been cryopreserved by sperm freezing, the likelihood of cryorecovery success cannot be accurately predicted using conventional sperm parameters. The objective of the present study was to assess the extent to which measurement of a sperm DNA fragmentation index (DFI) can predict sperm quality and fertility after cryopreservation. Using a modified TUNEL assay, we measured and correlated the DFI of frozen-thawed sperm from 83 unique mutant mouse strains with sperm count, motility and morphology. We observed a linear inverse correlation between sperm DFI and sperm morphology and motility. Further, sperm DFI was significantly higher from males with low sperm counts compared to males with normal sperm counts (P < 0.0001). Additionally, we found that viable embryos derived using sperm from males with high DFI (62.7 ± 7.2% for IVF and 73.3 ± 8.1% for ICSI) failed to litter after embryo transfer compared to embryos from males with low DFI (20.4 ± 7.9% for IVF and 28.1 ± 10.7 for ICSI). This study reveals that measurement of DFI provides a simple, informative and reliable measure of sperm quality and can accurately predict male mouse fertility.
Collapse
|
6
|
Kim JK, Caine C, Awano T, Herbst R, Monani UR. Motor neuronal repletion of the NMJ organizer, Agrin, modulates the severity of the spinal muscular atrophy disease phenotype in model mice. Hum Mol Genet 2017; 26:2377-2385. [PMID: 28379354 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddx124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2016] [Accepted: 03/23/2017] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a common and often fatal neuromuscular disorder caused by low levels of the Survival Motor Neuron (SMN) protein. Amongst the earliest detectable consequences of SMN deficiency are profound defects of the neuromuscular junctions (NMJs). In model mice these synapses appear disorganized, fail to mature and are characterized by poorly arborized nerve terminals. Given one role of the SMN protein in orchestrating the assembly of spliceosomal snRNP particles and subsequently regulating the alternative splicing of pre-mRNAs, a plausible link between SMN function and the distal neuromuscular SMA phenotype is an incorrectly spliced transcript or transcripts involved in establishing or maintaining NMJ structure. In this study, we explore the effects of one such transcript-Z+Agrin-known to be a critical organizer of the NMJ. We confirm that low SMN protein reduces motor neuronal levels of Z+Agrin. Repletion of this isoform of Agrin in the motor neurons of SMA model mice increases muscle fiber size, enhances the post-synaptic NMJ area, reduces the abnormal accumulation of intermediate filaments in nerve terminals of the neuromuscular synapse and improves the innervation of muscles. While these effects are independent of changes in SMN levels or increases in motor neuron numbers they nevertheless have a significant effect on the overall disease phenotype, enhancing mean survival in severely affected SMA model mice by ∼40%. We conclude that Agrin is an important target of the SMN protein and that mitigating NMJ defects may be one strategy in treating human spinal muscular atrophy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jeong-Ki Kim
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology.,Center for Motor Neuron Biology and Disease, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Charlotte Caine
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology.,Center for Motor Neuron Biology and Disease, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Tomoyuki Awano
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology.,Center for Motor Neuron Biology and Disease, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Ruth Herbst
- Center for Brain Research.,Institute of Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna
| | - Umrao R Monani
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology.,Center for Motor Neuron Biology and Disease, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA.,Department of Neurology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA
| |
Collapse
|