1
|
Cantero MM. Not all platelet-rich plasma are created equal. Curr Opin Obstet Gynecol 2024; 36:118-123. [PMID: 38324593 DOI: 10.1097/gco.0000000000000944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This review aims to elucidate potential variations in clinical outcomes resulting from the use of different types of platelet-rich plasma (PRPs) in reproductive medicine. It seeks to explore the reasons behind the diverse results reported in various studies and assess the general features distinguishing different PRP formulations. RECENT FINDINGS PRPs have found applications across diverse medical fields, generating controversy due to the variability in outcomes. The field of reproductive medicine, despite its limited published studies, is encountering a similar challenge as it integrates these treatments. SUMMARY The multitude of PRP product brands in the market, coupled with 'home-made' PRPs, poses a significant barrier to establishing a common protocol for the preparation of standardized PRP products. This impediment hinders widespread adoption by clinicians, particularly in endometrial or ovarian treatments. Drawing from evidence in other medical disciplines, this review endeavors to compile essential characteristics that PRPs must possess, aiming to mitigate the impact of variables affecting results in forthcoming studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Muñoz Cantero
- IVI Alicante, Centro de Excelencia en Rejuvenecimiento Ovárico, Avenida de Denia, Alicante, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Hao J, Li T, Heinzelmann M, Moussaud-Lamodière E, Lebre F, Krjutškov K, Damdimopoulos A, Arnelo C, Pettersson K, Alfaro-Moreno E, Lindskog C, van Duursen M, Damdimopoulou P. Effects of chemical in vitro activation versus fragmentation on human ovarian tissue and follicle growth in culture. Hum Reprod Open 2024; 2024:hoae028. [PMID: 38803550 PMCID: PMC11128059 DOI: 10.1093/hropen/hoae028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION What is the effect of the chemical in vitro activation (cIVA) protocol compared with fragmentation only (Frag, also known as mechanical IVA) on gene expression, follicle activation and growth in human ovarian tissue in vitro? SUMMARY ANSWER Although histological assessment shows that cIVA significantly increases follicle survival and growth compared to Frag, both protocols stimulate extensive and nearly identical transcriptomic changes in cultured tissue compared to freshly collected ovarian tissue, including marked changes in energy metabolism and inflammatory responses. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Treatments based on cIVA of the phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN)-phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) pathway in ovarian tissue followed by auto-transplantation have been administered to patients with refractory premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) and resulted in live births. However, comparable effects with mere tissue fragmentation have been shown, questioning the added value of chemical stimulation that could potentially activate oncogenic responses. STUDY DESIGN SIZE DURATION Fifty-nine ovarian cortical biopsies were obtained from consenting women undergoing elective caesarean section (C-section). The samples were fragmented for culture studies. Half of the fragments were exposed to bpV (HOpic)+740Y-P (Frag+cIVA group) during the first 24 h of culture, while the other half were cultured with medium only (Frag group). Subsequently, both groups were cultured with medium only for an additional 6 days. Tissue and media samples were collected for histological, transcriptomic, steroid hormone, and cytokine/chemokine analyses at various time points. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS SETTING METHODS Effects on follicles were evaluated by counting and scoring serial sections stained with hematoxylin and eosin before and after the 7-day culture. Follicle function was assessed by quantification of steroids by ultra-performance liquid chromatography tandem-mass spectrometry at different time points. Cytokines and chemokines were measured by multiplex assay. Transcriptomic effects were measured by RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq) of the tissue after the initial 24-h culture. Selected differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were validated by quantitative PCR and immunofluorescence in cultured ovarian tissue as well as in KGN cell (human ovarian granulosa-like tumor cell line) culture experiments. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Compared to the Frag group, the Frag+cIVA group exhibited a significantly higher follicle survival rate, increased numbers of secondary follicles, and larger follicle sizes. Additionally, the tissue in the Frag+cIVA group produced less dehydroepiandrosterone compared to Frag. Cytokine measurement showed a strong inflammatory response at the start of the culture in both groups. The RNA-seq data revealed modest differences between the Frag+cIVA and Frag groups, with only 164 DEGs identified using a relaxed cut-off of false discovery rate (FDR) <0.1. Apart from the expected PI3K-protein kinase B (Akt) pathway, cIVA also regulated pathways related to hypoxia, cytokines, and inflammation. In comparison to freshly collected ovarian tissue, gene expression in general was markedly affected in both the Frag+cIVA and Frag groups, with a total of 3119 and 2900 DEGs identified (FDR < 0.001), respectively. The top enriched gene sets in both groups included several pathways known to modulate follicle growth such as mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR)C1 signaling. Significant changes compared to fresh tissue were also observed in the expression of genes encoding for steroidogenesis enzymes and classical granulosa cell markers in both groups. Intriguingly, we discovered a profound upregulation of genes related to glycolysis and its upstream regulator in both Frag and Frag+cIVA groups, and these changes were further boosted by the cIVA treatment. Cell culture experiments confirmed glycolysis-related genes as direct targets of the cIVA drugs. In conclusion, cIVA enhances follicle growth, as expected, but the mechanisms may be more complex than PI3K-Akt-mTOR alone, and the impact on function and quality of the follicles after the culture period remains an open question. LARGE SCALE DATA Data were deposited in the GEO data base, accession number GSE234765. The code for sequencing analysis can be found in https://github.com/tialiv/IVA_project. LIMITATIONS REASONS FOR CAUTION Similar to the published IVA protocols, the first steps in our study were performed in an in vitro culture model where the ovarian tissue was isolated from the regulation of hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis. Further in vivo experiments will be needed, for example in xeno-transplantation models, to explore the long-term impacts of the discovered effects. The tissue collected from patients undergoing C-section may not be comparable to tissue of patients with POI. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS The general impact of fragmentation and short (24 h) in vitro culture on gene expression in ovarian tissue far exceeded the effects of cIVA. Yet, follicle growth was stimulated by cIVA, which may suggest effects on specific cell populations that may be diluted in bulk RNA-seq. Nevertheless, we confirmed the impact of cIVA on glycolysis using a cell culture model, suggesting impacts on cellular signaling beyond the PI3K pathway. The profound changes in inflammation and glycolysis following fragmentation and culture could contribute to follicle activation and loss in ovarian tissue culture, as well as in clinical applications, such as fertility preservation by ovarian tissue auto-transplantation. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS This study was funded by research grants from European Union's Horizon 2020 Research and Innovation Programme (Project ERIN No. 952516, FREIA No. 825100), Swedish Research Council VR (2020-02132), StratRegen funding from Karolinska Institutet, KI-China Scholarship Council (CSC) Programme and the Natural Science Foundation of Hunan (2022JJ40782). International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory Research was funded by the European Union's H2020 Project Sinfonia (857253) and SbDToolBox (NORTE-01-0145-FEDER-000047), supported by Norte Portugal Regional Operational Programme (NORTE 2020), under the PORTUGAL 2020 Partnership Agreement, through the European Regional Development Fund. No competing interests are declared.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jie Hao
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, P.R. China
- Department of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Tianyi Li
- Department of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Manuel Heinzelmann
- Department of Environment and Health, Amsterdam Institute for Life and Environment, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Elisabeth Moussaud-Lamodière
- Department of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Filipa Lebre
- Nanosafety Group, International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory, Braga, Portugal
| | - Kaarel Krjutškov
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
- Competence Centre on Health Technologies, Tartu, Estonia
| | | | - Catarina Arnelo
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Karin Pettersson
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Cecilia Lindskog
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Cancer Precision Medicine Research Program, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Majorie van Duursen
- Department of Environment and Health, Amsterdam Institute for Life and Environment, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Pauliina Damdimopoulou
- Department of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Delimitreva S, Boneva G, Chakarova I, Hadzhinesheva V, Zhivkova R, Markova M, Nikolova V, Kolarov A, Mladenov N, Bradyanova S, Prechl J, Mihaylova N, Tchorbanov A. Lupus progression deteriorates oogenesis quality in MRL/lpr mice. Immunol Res 2024:10.1007/s12026-024-09489-2. [PMID: 38771487 DOI: 10.1007/s12026-024-09489-2] [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: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease characterized by the activation of the immune response against self antigens. Numerous reproductive complications, including reduced birth rate and complications for the mother and the fetus during pregnancy, have been observed in women with SLE. In the present study, we aimed to investigate the effect of SLE development on oocyte meiosis in lupus-prone mice. Lupus-prone MRL/lpr mice were used for the experiments: disease-free (4 weeks of age) and sick (20 weeks of age, virgin and postpartum). The immune response was monitored by flow cytometry, ELISpot, ELISA, and histology. Oocytes were analyzed by fluorescence microscopy based on chromatin, tubulin, and actin structures. The lupus-prone MRL/lpr mice developed age-dependent symptoms of SLE with increased levels of various autoantibodies, proteinuria, and renal infiltrates and a tendency for the immune response to worsen with changes in cell populations and the cytokine profile. The number and quality of oocytes were also affected, and the successful pregnancy rate of MRL/lpr mice was limited to only 60%. Isolated oocytes showed severe structural changes in all studied groups. Systemic alterations in immune homeostasis in SLE affect the quality of developing oocytes, which is evident from a young age. The data obtained is in line with the trend of reduced fertility in lupus-prone MRL/lpr mice. The phenomenon can be explained by changes in the microenvironment of the relevant organs and close connection between ovulation and inflammatory processes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stefka Delimitreva
- Department of Biology, Medical University of Sofia, 2, Zdrave Str., 1431, Sofia, Bulgaria.
| | - Gabriela Boneva
- Department of Immunology, Stefan Angelov Institute of Microbiology, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Acad. G. Bonchev Street, Block 26, 1113, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Irina Chakarova
- Department of Biology, Medical University of Sofia, 2, Zdrave Str., 1431, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | | | - Ralitsa Zhivkova
- Department of Biology, Medical University of Sofia, 2, Zdrave Str., 1431, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Maya Markova
- Department of Biology, Medical University of Sofia, 2, Zdrave Str., 1431, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Venera Nikolova
- Department of Biology, Medical University of Sofia, 2, Zdrave Str., 1431, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Anton Kolarov
- Department of Biology, Medical University of Sofia, 2, Zdrave Str., 1431, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Nikola Mladenov
- Department of Biology, Medical University of Sofia, 2, Zdrave Str., 1431, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Silviya Bradyanova
- Department of Immunology, Stefan Angelov Institute of Microbiology, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Acad. G. Bonchev Street, Block 26, 1113, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | | | - Nikolina Mihaylova
- Department of Immunology, Stefan Angelov Institute of Microbiology, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Acad. G. Bonchev Street, Block 26, 1113, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Andrey Tchorbanov
- Department of Immunology, Stefan Angelov Institute of Microbiology, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Acad. G. Bonchev Street, Block 26, 1113, Sofia, Bulgaria.
- National Institute of Immunology, 1517, Sofia, Bulgaria.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Torstensson S, Ascani A, Risal S, Lu H, Zhao A, Espinosa A, Lindgren E, Johansson MH, Eriksson G, Barakat M, Karlsson MCI, Svensson C, Benrick A, Stener-Victorin E. Androgens Modulate the Immune Profile in a Mouse Model of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024:e2401772. [PMID: 38767114 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202401772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2024] [Revised: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is associated with a low-grade inflammation, but it is unknown how hyperandrogenism, the hallmark of PCOS, affects the immune system. Using a PCOS-like mouse model, it is demonstrated that hyperandrogenism affects immune cell populations in reproductive, metabolic, and immunological tissues differently in a site-specific manner. Co-treatment with an androgen receptor antagonist prevents most of these alterations, demonstrating that these effects are mediated through androgen receptor activation. Dihydrotestosterone (DHT)-exposed mice displayed a drastically reduced eosinophil population in the uterus and visceral adipose tissue (VAT). A higher frequency of natural killer (NK) cells and elevated levels of IFN-γ and TNF-α are seen in uteri of androgen-exposed mice, while NK cells in VAT and spleen displayed a higher expression level of CD69, a marker of activation or tissue residency. Distinct alterations of macrophages in the uterus, ovaries, and VAT are also found in DHT-exposed mice and can potentially be linked to PCOS-like traits of the model. Indeed, androgen-exposed mice are insulin-resistant, albeit unaltered fat mass. Collectively, it is demonstrated that hyperandrogenism causes tissue-specific alterations of immune cells in reproductive organs and VAT, which can have considerable implications on tissue function and contribute to the reduced fertility and metabolic comorbidities associated with PCOS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sara Torstensson
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, 171 77, Sweden
| | - Angelo Ascani
- Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Auenbruggerplaz 15, Graz, 8036, Austria
| | - Sanjiv Risal
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, 171 77, Sweden
| | - Haojiang Lu
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, 171 77, Sweden
| | - Allan Zhao
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, 171 77, Sweden
| | - Alexander Espinosa
- Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, K2 Reuma Wahren-Herlenius M, Stockholm, 171 77, Sweden
| | - Eva Lindgren
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, 171 77, Sweden
| | - Maria H Johansson
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, 171 77, Sweden
| | - Gustaw Eriksson
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, 171 77, Sweden
| | - Maya Barakat
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, 171 77, Sweden
| | - Mikael C I Karlsson
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, 171 77, Sweden
| | - Camilla Svensson
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, 171 77, Sweden
| | - Anna Benrick
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Box 432, Gothenburg, 40530, Sweden
| | | |
Collapse
|
5
|
Lai TH, Chen HT, Wu PH, Wu WB. The Presence of TGFβ3 in Human Ovarian Intrafollicular Fluid and Its Involvement in Thromboxane Generation in Follicular Granulosa Cells through a Canonical TGFβRI, Smad2/3 Signaling Pathway and COX-2 Induction. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5558. [PMID: 38791596 PMCID: PMC11122310 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25105558] [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: 04/07/2024] [Revised: 05/08/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Ovarian follicular fluid (FF) has a direct impact on oocyte quality, playing key roles in fertilization, implantation, and early embryo development. In our recent study, we found FF thromboxane (TX) to be a novel factor inversely correlated with oocyte maturation and identified thrombin, transforming growth factor β (TGFβ), TNF-α, and follicular granulosa cells (GCs) as possible contributors to FF TX production. Therefore, this study sought to investigate the role of TGFβ3 in regulating TX generation in human ovarian follicular GCs. TGFβ3 was differentially and significantly present in the FF of large and small follicles obtained from IVF patients with average concentrations of 68.58 ± 12.38 and 112.55 ± 14.82 pg/mL, respectively, and its levels were correlated with oocyte maturity. In an in vitro study, TGFβ3 induced TX generation/secretion and the converting enzyme-COX-2 protein/mRNA expression both in human HO23 and primary cultured ovarian follicular GCs. While TGFβRI and Smad2/3 signaling was mainly required for COX-2 induction, ERK1/2 appeared to regulate TX secretion. The participation of Smad2/3 and COX-2 in TGFβ3-induced TX generation/secretion could be further supported by the observations that Smad2/3 phosphorylation and nuclear translocation and siRNA knockdown of COX-2 expression compromised TX secretion in GCs challenged with TGFβ3. Taken together, the results presented here first demonstrated that FF TGFβ3 levels differ significantly in IVF patients' large preovulatory and small mid-antral follicles and are positively associated with oocyte maturation. TGFβ3 can provoke TX generation by induction of COX-2 mRNA/protein via a TGFβR-related canonical Smad2/3 signaling pathway, and TX secretion possibly by ERK1/2. These imply that TGFβ3 is one of the inducers for yielding FF TX in vivo, which may play a role in folliculogenesis and oocyte maturation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tsung-Hsuan Lai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cathay General Hospital, No. 280, Renai Rd. Daan Dist., Taipei 10693, Taiwan;
- School of Medicine, Fu Jen Catholic University, No. 510, Zhongzheng Rd., Xinzhuang Dist., New Taipei City 242062, Taiwan;
| | - Hsuan-Ting Chen
- Ph.D. Program in Pharmaceutic Biotechnology, Fu Jen Catholic University, No. 510, Zhongzheng Rd., Xinzhuang Dist., New Taipei City 242062, Taiwan;
| | - Pi-Hui Wu
- School of Medicine, Fu Jen Catholic University, No. 510, Zhongzheng Rd., Xinzhuang Dist., New Taipei City 242062, Taiwan;
| | - Wen-Bin Wu
- School of Medicine, Fu Jen Catholic University, No. 510, Zhongzheng Rd., Xinzhuang Dist., New Taipei City 242062, Taiwan;
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Science, Fu Jen Catholic University, No. 510, Zhongzheng Rd., Xinzhuang Dist., New Taipei City 242062, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Luis-Calero M, Marinaro F, Fernández-Hernández P, Ortiz-Rodríguez JM, G Casado J, Pericuesta E, Gutiérrez-Adán A, González E, Azkargorta M, Conde R, Bizkarguenaga M, Embade N, Elortza F, Falcón-Pérez JM, Millet Ó, González-Fernández L, Macías-García B. Characterization of preovulatory follicular fluid secretome and its effects on equine oocytes during in vitro maturation. Res Vet Sci 2024; 171:105222. [PMID: 38513461 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2024.105222] [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: 11/24/2023] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
In vitro maturation (IVM) of oocytes is clinically used in horses to produce blastocysts but current conditions used for horses are suboptimal. We analyzed the composition of equine preovulatory follicular fluid (FF) secretome and tested its effects on meiotic competence and gene expression in oocytes subjected to IVM. Preovulatory FF was obtained, concentrated using ultrafiltration with cut-off of 10 kDa, and stored at -80 °C. The metabolic and proteomic composition was analyzed, and its ultrastructural composition was assessed by cryo-transmission microscopy. Oocytes obtained post-mortem or by ovum pick up (OPU) were subjected to IVM in the absence (control) or presence of 20 or 40 μg/ml (S20 or S40) of secretome. Oocytes were then analyzed for chromatin configuration or snap frozen for gene expression analysis. Proteomic analysis detected 255 proteins in the Equus caballus database, mostly related to the complement cascade and cholesterol metabolism. Metabolomic analysis yielded 14 metabolites and cryo-transmission electron microscopy analysis revealed the presence of extracellular vesicles (EVs). No significant differences were detected in maturation rates among treatments. However, the expression of GDF9 and BMP15 significantly increased in OPU-derived oocytes compared to post-mortem oocytes (fold increase ± SEM: 9.4 ± 0.1 vs. 1 ± 0.5 for BMP15 and 9.9 ± 0.3 vs. 1 ± 0.5 for GDF9, respectively; p < 0.05). Secretome addition increased the expression of TNFAIP6 in S40 regardless of the oocyte source. Further research is necessary to fully understand whether secretome addition influences the developmental competence of equine oocytes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marcos Luis-Calero
- Departamento de Medicina Animal, Grupo de Investigación Medicina Interna Veterinaria (MINVET), Instituto de Investigación INBIO G+C, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | | | - Pablo Fernández-Hernández
- Departamento de Medicina Animal, Grupo de Investigación Medicina Interna Veterinaria (MINVET), Instituto de Investigación INBIO G+C, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - José M Ortiz-Rodríguez
- Departamento de Medicina Animal, Grupo de Investigación Medicina Interna Veterinaria (MINVET), Instituto de Investigación INBIO G+C, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - Javier G Casado
- Unidad de inmunología, Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - Eva Pericuesta
- Departamento de Reproducción Animal, INIA-CSIC, Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | | | - Ricardo Conde
- Precision Medicine and Metabolism Laboratory, CIC bioGUNE, Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Bizkaia, Spain
| | - Maider Bizkarguenaga
- Precision Medicine and Metabolism Laboratory, CIC bioGUNE, Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Bizkaia, Spain
| | - Nieves Embade
- Precision Medicine and Metabolism Laboratory, CIC bioGUNE, Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Bizkaia, Spain
| | | | | | - Óscar Millet
- Precision Medicine and Metabolism Laboratory, CIC bioGUNE, Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Bizkaia, Spain
| | - Lauro González-Fernández
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular y Genética, Grupo de Investigación Señalización Intracelular y Tecnología de la Reproducción (SINTREP), Instituto de Investigación INBIO G+C, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain.
| | - Beatriz Macías-García
- Departamento de Medicina Animal, Grupo de Investigación Medicina Interna Veterinaria (MINVET), Instituto de Investigación INBIO G+C, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Zha H, Yang X, Jiang F, Chen Y, Liang Y, Zhang Z, Yang J. Interleukin-6 Concentration in Single-Embryo Medium Is Associated with Blastocyst Formation. Reprod Sci 2024; 31:1139-1145. [PMID: 38040897 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-023-01414-6] [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: 07/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/03/2023]
Abstract
IL-6 plays an important role in oogenesis in humans. However, at the preimplantation stage, IL-6 production and the role in embryo development remain unclear. In this study, IL-6 concentrations in single-embryo media were analyzed. In addition, the association between IL-6 production and blastocyst formation was investigated. Single-embryo culture media from 194 embryos were collected on day 6 after fertilization and divided into four groups according to the developmental stage of the corresponding embryo, as follows: cleavage stage group, morula-early blastocyst group, unavailable full blastocyst group, and available full blastocyst group. IL-6 concentrations were significantly lower in the cleavage stage group than in the morula-early blastocyst group (p = 0.009), in the unavailable full blastocyst group (p = 0.003), and in the available full blastocyst group (p < 0.001). Logistic regression analysis showed that IL-6 concentration in single-embryo medium was significantly associated with blastocyst formation (odds ratios β1 = 1.876, 95% CI 1.433 to 2.644, p < 0.0001). Therefore, IL-6 was produced by human preimplantation embryos throughout the preimplantation stage and may play a role in embryo development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hao Zha
- Reproductive Center the Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Dianmian Road 374, Kunming, 650101, Yunnan, China
| | - Xiaolin Yang
- Reproductive Center the Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Dianmian Road 374, Kunming, 650101, Yunnan, China
| | - Fangjie Jiang
- Reproductive Center the Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Dianmian Road 374, Kunming, 650101, Yunnan, China
| | - Yabin Chen
- Reproductive Center the Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Dianmian Road 374, Kunming, 650101, Yunnan, China
| | - Yu Liang
- Reproductive Center the Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Dianmian Road 374, Kunming, 650101, Yunnan, China
| | - Zhaoqin Zhang
- Reproductive Center the Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Dianmian Road 374, Kunming, 650101, Yunnan, China
| | - Jie Yang
- Reproductive Center the Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Dianmian Road 374, Kunming, 650101, Yunnan, China.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Edelman A, Boniface ER, Male V, Cameron S, Benhar E, Han L, Matteson KA, van Lamsweerde A, Pearson JT, Darney BG. Timing of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Vaccination and Effects on Menstrual Cycle Changes. Obstet Gynecol 2024; 143:585-594. [PMID: 38412506 PMCID: PMC10953681 DOI: 10.1097/aog.0000000000005550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2024] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess whether menstrual cycle timing (follicular or luteal phase) of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccine administration is associated with cycle length changes. METHODS We used prospectively collected (2021-2022) menstrual cycle tracking data from 19,497 reproductive-aged users of the application "Natural Cycles." We identified whether vaccine was delivered in the follicular or luteal phase and also included an unvaccinated control group. Our primary outcome was the adjusted within-individual change in cycle length (in days) from the average of the three menstrual cycles before the first vaccination cycle (individuals in the unvaccinated control group were assigned a notional vaccine date). We also assessed cycle length changes in the second vaccination cycle and whether a clinically significant change in cycle length (8 days or more) occurred in either cycle. RESULTS Most individuals were younger than age 35 years (80.1%) and from North America (28.6%), continental Europe (33.5%), or the United Kingdom (31.7%). In the vaccinated group, the majority received an mRNA vaccine (63.8% of the full sample). Individuals vaccinated in the follicular phase experienced an average 1-day longer adjusted cycle length with a first or second dose of COVID-19 vaccine compared with their prevaccination average (first dose: 1.00 day [98.75% CI, 0.88-1.13], second dose: 1.11 days [98.75% CI, 0.93-1.29]); those vaccinated in the luteal phase and those in the unvaccinated control group experienced no change in cycle length (respectively, first dose: -0.09 days [98.75% CI, -0.26 to 0.07], second dose: 0.06 days [98.75% CI, -0.16 to 0.29], unvaccinated notional first dose: 0.08 days [98.75% CI, -0.10 to 0.27], second dose: 0.17 days [98.75% CI, -0.04 to 0.38]). Those vaccinated during the follicular phase were also more likely to experience a clinically significant change in cycle length (8 days or more; first dose: 6.8%) than those vaccinated in the luteal phase or unvaccinated (3.3% and 5.0%, respectively; P <.001). CONCLUSION COVID-19 vaccine-related cycle length increases are associated with receipt of vaccination in the first half of the menstrual cycle (follicular phase).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alison Edelman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oregon Health & Science University, and Oregon Health & Science University-Portland State University, School of Public Health, Portland, Oregon; the Department of Metabolism Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom; Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Edinburgh and Chalmers Centre, Edinburgh, Scotland; Natural Cycles USA Corp, New York, New York; the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts; and the National Institute of Public Health, Center for Population Health Research, Cuernavaca, Mexico
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
9
|
Al-Bdairi AA, Makki HA, Shawki O, Alkhudair SH, Al-Hilli NM, Alkhalidi BA, Alkadhim HK, Shweliyya AA. The Multi-faceted Effects of COVID-19 on Female Reproductive Health: An Updated Narrative Review. Cureus 2024; 16:e57944. [PMID: 38738039 PMCID: PMC11082527 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.57944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Concerns about the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic's possible impact on sexual and reproductive health have grown significantly. In this narrative review, the latest research on the effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection on several facets of sexual and reproductive health is reviewed. The review starts initially by going through the possible consequences of SARS-CoV-2 on female menstrual cycles. The virus may interfere with the menstrual cycle, which could affect hormone synthesis and endometrial reactions, according to newly available evidence. Menstrual blood loss may be impacted by COVID-19's potential to influence endothelial cell function and systemic hemostasis. Hypothalamic amenorrhea may be brought on by severe COVID-19 disease. There is little research on this subject, although most women resume their regular menstrual cycles after 1-2 months of recuperation. The review also examines how SARS-CoV-2 infection may affect assisted reproductive technology (ART) treatments. There are few clinical data, although some research points to potential effects on embryo quality. Overall, ART results, however, did not materially change from the time before the epidemic. Obstetric problems are more likely when SARS-CoV-2 infection occurs during pregnancy, especially in the third trimester. Even though the maternal death rate is still low, pregnant women, especially those with comorbidities, are more likely to experience serious sickness. The review emphasizes how the COVID-19 vaccine affects menstrual cycles, showing brief, modest modifications without serious health hazards. Also included are the psychological effects of family planning choices during the pandemic. In conclusion, this narrative review offers a thorough assessment of the complicated and changing effects of SARS-CoV-2 on sexual and reproductive health. The different requirements of people and couples during and after the pandemic are highlighted, underscoring the necessity for ongoing study and specialized healthcare practices.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adnan A Al-Bdairi
- Infertility, Assisted Reproductive Technologies, Teba IVF and Genetic Center, Babylon, IRQ
| | - Hayder A Makki
- Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Babylon, Babylon, IRQ
| | - Osama Shawki
- Gynecology Surgery, School of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, EGY
| | - Sallama H Alkhudair
- Fertility, Assisted Reproductive Technology, Alzaitoon Specialized Fertility Center, Baghdad, IRQ
| | - Nadia M Al-Hilli
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, University of Babylon, Babylon, IRQ
| | - Batool A Alkhalidi
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, University of Kufa, Najaf, IRQ
| | - Hanan K Alkadhim
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Iraqi Fertility Society, College of Medicine, University of Babylon, Babylon, IRQ
| | | |
Collapse
|
10
|
Wilson CA, Batzel P, Postlethwait JH. Direct male development in chromosomally ZZ zebrafish. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1362228. [PMID: 38529407 PMCID: PMC10961373 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1362228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024] Open
Abstract
The genetics of sex determination varies across taxa, sometimes even within a species. Major domesticated strains of zebrafish (Danio rerio), including AB and TU, lack a strong genetic sex determining locus, but strains more recently derived from nature, like Nadia (NA), possess a ZZ male/ZW female chromosomal sex-determination system. AB fish pass through a juvenile ovary stage, forming oocytes that survive in fish that become females but die in fish that become males. To understand mechanisms of gonad development in NA zebrafish, we studied histology and single cell transcriptomics in developing ZZ and ZW fish. ZW fish developed oocytes by 22 days post-fertilization (dpf) but ZZ fish directly formed testes, avoiding a juvenile ovary phase. Gonads of some ZW and WW fish, however, developed oocytes that died as the gonad became a testis, mimicking AB fish, suggesting that the gynogenetically derived AB strain is chromosomally WW. Single-cell RNA-seq of 19dpf gonads showed similar cell types in ZZ and ZW fish, including germ cells, precursors of gonadal support cells, steroidogenic cells, interstitial/stromal cells, and immune cells, consistent with a bipotential juvenile gonad. In contrast, scRNA-seq of 30dpf gonads revealed that cells in ZZ gonads had transcriptomes characteristic of testicular Sertoli, Leydig, and germ cells while ZW gonads had granulosa cells, theca cells, and developing oocytes. Hematopoietic and vascular cells were similar in both sex genotypes. These results show that juvenile NA zebrafish initially develop a bipotential gonad; that a factor on the NA W chromosome, or fewer than two Z chromosomes, is essential to initiate oocyte development; and without the W factor, or with two Z doses, NA gonads develop directly into testes without passing through the juvenile ovary stage. Sex determination in AB and TU strains mimics NA ZW and WW zebrafish, suggesting loss of the Z chromosome during domestication. Genetic analysis of the NA strain will facilitate our understanding of the evolution of sex determination mechanisms.
Collapse
|
11
|
Nenonen H, Kondic A, Henic E, Hjelmér I. Recurrent implantation failure and inflammatory markers in serum and follicle fluid of women undergoing assisted reproduction. J Reprod Immunol 2024; 162:104209. [PMID: 38310681 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2024.104209] [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: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 01/27/2024] [Indexed: 02/06/2024]
Abstract
It has been shown previously that the immune system plays a role in implantation and embryo development. The objective was therefore to evaluate cytokine levels and Th1/Th2 ratio in women with recurrent implantation failure in this nested case-control study. Women with no implantation after ≥ 3 embryo transfers were included in the recurrent implantation failure group (n = 29) and were compared with women with successful pregnancy after the first embryo transfer, with an indication of male factor (n = 26). Cytokines analyzed with the Meso scale discovery (MSD) technology Proinflammatory Human Kit 1 and calculated Th1/Th2 ratios were the main outcome measures. In serum there was a difference between the recurrent implantation failure group and the control group in ratios for IFN-γ/IL-10 (p = 0.01), IL-1β/IL-10 (p = 0.04), IL-2/IL-10 (p = 0.00), TNF-α/IL-10 (p = 0.02), IFN-γ/IL-13 (p = 0.01), IL-12/IL-13 (p = 0.02), IL-2/IL-13 (p = 0.00), and TNF-α/IL-13 (p = 0.00), where the control group had higher ratios, i.e. a shift towards a Th1 pro-inflammatory profile before treatment start. In follicular fluid there were differences in ratios between IL-2/IL-10 (p = 0.02), IL-8/IL-10 (p = 0.02), TNF-α/IL-10 (p = 0.02), IFN-γ/IL-13 (p = 0.01), and TNF-α/IL-13 (p = 0.03). The recurrent implantation failure group had higher ratios except for IFN-γ/IL-13, indicating a shift towards a Th1 pro-inflammatory profile in their follicular fluid. Pro-inflammatory activity in both serum and follicle fluid differs in recurrent implantation failure patients and patients with successful assisted reproduction treatment. Women at risk of immune-related recurrent implantation failure could be identified proactively. Because it is taken at a timepoint closer to implantation, ratios in follicular fluid are specifically interesting as risk markers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Nenonen
- Department of Translational Medicine, Lund University, Jan Waldenströms gata 35, 214 28 Malmö, Sweden
| | - Alexandra Kondic
- Department of Translational Medicine, Lund University, Jan Waldenströms gata 35, 214 28 Malmö, Sweden
| | - Emir Henic
- Scanian University Hospital Malmö, Reproductive Medicine Centre, Östra Varvsgatan 11F, 205 02 Malmö, Sweden; Department of Translational Medicine, Lund University, Jan Waldenströms gata 35, 214 28 Malmö, Sweden
| | - Ida Hjelmér
- Department of Translational Medicine, Lund University, Jan Waldenströms gata 35, 214 28 Malmö, Sweden.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Cai L, Jeong YW, Hwang WS, Hyun SH. Optimization of human recombinant granulocyte-colony stimulating factor supplementation during in vitro production of porcine embryos to improve the efficiency of resource utilization of poor-quality cumulus-oocyte complexes. Theriogenology 2024; 216:93-102. [PMID: 38159389 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.12.017] [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: 08/20/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF), a pleiotropic cytokine, is secreted by the reproductive tract. Furthermore, our previous study indicated that human recombinant G-CSF (hrG-CSF) supplementation during porcine oocyte in vitro maturation (IVM) or during embryo in vitro culture (IVC) improved their quality and development potential when using cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) with more than three cumulus cell layers (CCL >3). Thus, in this study, we investigate the optimal conditions of hrG-CSF supplementation throughout the in vitro production (IVP: IVM + IVC) system to improve the embryo production efficiency of "poor-quality (CCL ≤3)" oocytes. COCs were classified into two groups according to the number of CCL (>3 and ≤3) and embryonic viability was analyzed after treatment with hrG-CSF during IVC. The mRNA transcription levels of G-CSF in COCs were compared based on their type and the period of IVM. Finally, developmental capacity and quality were evaluated after treatment with hrG-CSF for different periods of IVP. No marked effects on the developmental potential of embryos when using CCL ≤3 type COCs were observed after supplementing hrG-CSF only during IVC. Moreover, the mRNA transcription level of G-CSF increased gradually with IVM culture time and was higher in CCL ≤3 COCs than in >3. Supplementing hrG-CSF only during the IVM period resulted in the best embryo developmental potential, while supplementing hrG-CSF during the IVP period resulted in the best quality embryos, reflected in the increased total cell number and decreased apoptotic nuclei index of blastocysts. These findings indicate that "poor-quality" COCs may have a greater demand for G-CSF than "good-quality", meanwhile hrG-CSF supplementation throughout IVP improves resource utilization efficiency in poor-quality COCs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lian Cai
- UAE Biotech Research Center, Al Wathba, 30310, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates; Laboratory of Veterinary Embryology and Biotechnology (VETEMBIO), College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, 28644, Republic of Korea; School of Veterinary Biosecurity and Protection, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, 28644, Republic of Korea
| | - Yeon-Woo Jeong
- UAE Biotech Research Center, Al Wathba, 30310, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Woo-Suk Hwang
- UAE Biotech Research Center, Al Wathba, 30310, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates; Department of Biology, North-Eastern Federal University, Yakutsk, 67707, Sakha Republic, Russia.
| | - Sang-Hwan Hyun
- Laboratory of Veterinary Embryology and Biotechnology (VETEMBIO), College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, 28644, Republic of Korea; School of Veterinary Biosecurity and Protection, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, 28644, Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Li S, Li Y, Sun Y, Feng G, Yang Z, Yan X, Gao X, Jiang Y, Du Y, Zhao S, Zhao H, Chen ZJ. Deconvolution at the single-cell level reveals ovarian cell-type-specific transcriptomic changes in PCOS. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2024; 22:24. [PMID: 38373962 PMCID: PMC10875798 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-024-01195-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/21/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common reproductive endocrine disorders in females of childbearing age. Various types of ovarian cells work together to maintain normal reproductive function, whose discordance often takes part in the development and progression of PCOS. Understanding the cellular heterogeneity and compositions of ovarian cells would provide insight into PCOS pathogenesis, but are, however, not well understood. Transcriptomic characterization of cells isolated from PCOS cases have been assessed using bulk RNA-seq but cells isolated contain a mixture of many ovarian cell types. METHODS Here we utilized the reference scRNA-seq data from human adult ovaries to deconvolute and estimate cell proportions and dysfunction of ovarian cells in PCOS, by integrating various granulosa cells(GCs) transcriptomic data. RESULTS We successfully defined 22 distinct cell clusters of human ovarian cells. Then after transcriptome integration, we obtained a gene expression matrix with 13,904 genes within 30 samples (15 control vs. 15 PCOS). Subsequent deconvolution analysis revealed decreased proportion of small antral GCs and increased proportion of KRT8high mural GCs, HTRA1high cumulus cells in PCOS, especially increased differentiation from small antral GCs to KRT8high mural GCs. For theca cells, the abundance of internal theca cells (TCs) and external TCs was both increased. Less TCF21high stroma cells (SCs) and more STARhigh SCs were observed. The proportions of NK cells and monocytes were decreased, and T cells occupied more in PCOS and communicated stronger with inTCs and exTCs. In the end, we predicted the candidate drugs which could be used to correct the proportion of ovarian cells in patients with PCOS. CONCLUSIONS Taken together, this study provides insights into the molecular alterations and cellular compositions in PCOS ovarian tissue. The findings might contribute to our understanding of PCOS pathophysiology and offer resource for PCOS basic research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shumin Li
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Yimeng Li
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Research Unit of Gametogenesis and Health of ART-Offspring, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No.2021RU001), Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Yu Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Research Unit of Gametogenesis and Health of ART-Offspring, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No.2021RU001), Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Gengchen Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Research Unit of Gametogenesis and Health of ART-Offspring, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No.2021RU001), Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Ziyi Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Research Unit of Gametogenesis and Health of ART-Offspring, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No.2021RU001), Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Xueqi Yan
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Research Unit of Gametogenesis and Health of ART-Offspring, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No.2021RU001), Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Xueying Gao
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Yonghui Jiang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Yanzhi Du
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
| | - Shigang Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
- Research Unit of Gametogenesis and Health of ART-Offspring, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No.2021RU001), Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
| | - Han Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
- Research Unit of Gametogenesis and Health of ART-Offspring, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No.2021RU001), Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
| | - Zi-Jiang Chen
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
- Research Unit of Gametogenesis and Health of ART-Offspring, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No.2021RU001), Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
- Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Izadpanah M, Yalameha B, Sani MZ, Cheragh PK, Mahdipour M, Rezabakhsh A, Rahbarghazi R. Exosomes as Theranostic Agents in Reproduction System. Adv Biol (Weinh) 2024; 8:e2300258. [PMID: 37955866 DOI: 10.1002/adbi.202300258] [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: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023]
Abstract
Exosomes (Exos), belonging to extracellular vesicles, are cell-derived nano-sized vesicles with the potential to carry different kinds of biological molecules. Many studies have proved the impacts of exosomal cargo on several biological processes in female and male reproductive systems. It is also hypothesized that changes in exosomal cargo are integral to the promotion of certain pathological conditions, thus Exos can be used as valid biomarkers for the diagnosis of infertility and other abnormal conditions. Here, efforts are made to collect some recent data related to the physiological significance of Exos in the reproductive system, and their potential therapeutic effects. It is anticipated that the current review article will lay the groundwork for elucidating the source and mechanisms by which Exos control the reproductive system additionally supplying fresh methods and concepts for the detection and treatment of disorders associated with fertility for future studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Melika Izadpanah
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Banafsheh Yalameha
- Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Department of Biochemistry and Clinical Laboratories, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Maryam Zamani Sani
- Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | | | - Mahdi Mahdipour
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Aysa Rezabakhsh
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Reza Rahbarghazi
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Department of Applied Cell Sciences, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Brown W, Oliveira M, Reis Silva R, Woodruff K, Bisha B, Demetrio D, Block J. Effects of mycobacterium cell wall fraction on embryo development following in vitro embryo production and pregnancy rates following embryo transfer in virgin dairy heifers. Theriogenology 2024; 215:334-342. [PMID: 38134681 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.12.019] [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: 08/10/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
An experiment was conducted to determine whether administration of mycobacterium cell wall fraction (MCWF; Amplimune, NovaVive) could enhance embryo developmental competence following in vitro embryo production (IVP) and pregnancy establishment after embryo transfer (ET). Nulliparous, Holstein heifers (n = 40; age 8-15 months) were submitted to two rounds of ovum pick-up (OPU) and IVP in a crossover design. Thirty-six h after follicle wave synchronization, treatments (saline or MCWF, 5 mL, im) were administered in conjunction with a single dose of follicle stimulating hormone (175 IU) and OPU was performed 48-52 h later. Recovered cumulus-oocyte complexes were used for IVP to assess embryo development. For ET, nulliparous, Holstein heifers (n = 225; age 12-18 months) were used as recipients. At 12-24 h after detection of spontaneous estrus, recipients were randomly treated with either saline or MCWF (5 mL, im). The effect of MCWF on pregnancy per ET (P/ET) was assessed in a 2 × 2 factorial design with recipients treated with or without MCWF receiving a fresh IVP embryo from a donor treated with or without MCWF at day 7 or 8 after detected estrus. Blood samples were collected from a subset of donors (n = 8) and recipients (n = 26 to 33 per treatment) prior to treatment and at 6 and 24 h post-treatment to determine serum concentration of interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, tumor necrosis factor-α, and interferon-γ. Blood samples were also collected from a group of recipients (n = 31 to 39 per treatment) to assess serum concentration of progesterone at days 4, 7, and 16 post-treatment. Pregnancy status was determined at days 40 and 100 of gestation. Donor treatment with MCWF tended (P < 0.07) to increase the proportion of oocytes that developed into transferable embryos, but there was no effect of MCWF on other parameters of embryo development. The P/ET at days 40 and 100 of gestation and pregnancy loss were not affected by donor treatment or recipient treatment with MCWF and there was no interaction. Serum concentration of proinflammatory cytokines among donors and recipients and serum concentration of progesterone among recipients were not increased by treatment with MCWF. Results of the present study indicate that treatment of donors with MCWF has minimal impact on subsequent embryo development following IVP. Moreover, regardless of whether donors or recipients were treated with MCWF, there was no effect on P/ET following transfer of IVP embryos.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- W Brown
- Department of Animal Science, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY, USA
| | | | - R Reis Silva
- EVZ, Federal University of Goias, Goiania, GO, Brazil
| | - K Woodruff
- Department of Animal Science, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY, USA
| | - B Bisha
- Department of Animal Science, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY, USA
| | | | - J Block
- Department of Animal Science, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Hedia M, Angel-Velez D, Papas M, Peere S, Gerits I, De Coster T, Van den Branden E, Govaere J, Van Soom A, Leroy JLMR, Smits K. Oxidative stress in donor mares for ovum pick-up delays embryonic development. Theriogenology 2024; 213:109-113. [PMID: 37826984 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.10.006] [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: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023]
Abstract
The in vitro production of equine embryos via ovum pick-up (OPU) and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) has increased rapidly. There is a marked effect of the individual mare on the outcome of OPU-ICSI, but little is known about the influence of the mare's health condition. This study aimed to investigate the potential associations between the concentrations of interleukin-6 (IL-6), reactive oxygen metabolites (d-ROMs), and biological antioxidant potential (BAP) in serum of oocytes' donor mares and the subsequent embryonic development. Just before OPU, a blood sample was collected from 28 Warmblood donor mares, that were subjected to a routine OPU-ICSI program. The serum concentrations of IL-6, d-ROMs, and BAP were assayed photometrically. The maturation, cleavage and blastocyst rate as well as the kinetics of blastocyst development were recorded. The average blastocyst rate was 24.68 ± 5.16% and the average concentrations of IL-6, d-ROMs, and BAP were 519.59 ± 157.08 pg/mL, 171.30 ± 4.55 carratelli units (UCARR), and 2711.30 ± 4.55 μmol/L, respectively. Serum concentrations of IL-6, d-ROMs, and BAP were not significantly different between mares yielding at least one blastocyst (552.68 ± 235.18 pg/mL, 168.36 ± 5.56 UCARR, and 2524.80 ± 159.55 μmol/L) and mares yielding no blastocysts (468.47 ± 179.99 pg/mL, 175.85 ± 7.89 UCARR, and 2999.50 ± 300.13 μmol/L, respectively). Serum concentrations of d-ROMs were significantly lower in mares with fast growing (at day 7-8 post ICSI; 148.10 ± 8.13 UCARR) compared to those with slow growing blastocysts (≥ day 9 post ICSI; 179.41 ± 4.89 UCARR; P = 0.003). Taken together, the serum concentration of IL-6, d-ROMs, and BAP do not determine the mare's ability to produce blastocysts in vitro. Although it may be questioned whether a single sample is representative of the mare's health status, changes in serum metabolites related to oxidative stress at the time of oocyte retrieval were linked to a delayed blastocyst development in a clinical OPU-ICSI outcome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Hedia
- Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium; Theriogenology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt; Gamete Research Centre, Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium.
| | - Daniel Angel-Velez
- Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium; Research Group in Animal Sciences-INCA-CES, Universidad CES, 050021, Medellin, Colombia
| | - Marion Papas
- Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium; Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Sofie Peere
- Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Ilse Gerits
- Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Tine De Coster
- Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Emma Van den Branden
- Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Jan Govaere
- Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Ann Van Soom
- Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Jo L M R Leroy
- Gamete Research Centre, Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Katrien Smits
- Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Dai M, Xu Y, Gong G, Zhang Y. Roles of immune microenvironment in the female reproductive maintenance and regulation: novel insights into the crosstalk of immune cells. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1109122. [PMID: 38223507 PMCID: PMC10786641 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1109122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 01/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Female fertility decline is an accumulative consequence caused by complex factors, among them, the disruption of the immune profile in female reproduction stands out as a crucial contributor. Presently, the effects of immune microenvironment (IME) on the female reproductive process have attracted increasing attentions for their dynamic but precisive roles. Immunocytes including macrophages, dendritic cells, T cells, B cells and neutrophils, with diverse subpopulations as well as high plasticity functioned dynamically in the process of female reproduction through indirect intercellular communication via specific cytokine release transduced by molecular signal networks or direct cell-cell contact to maintain the stability of the reproductive process have been unveiled. The immune profile of female reproduction in each stage has also been meticulously unveiled. Especially, the application of single-cell sequencing (scRNA-seq) technology in this process reveals the distribution map of immune cells, which gives a novel insight for the homeostasis of IME and provides a research direction for better exploring the role of immune cells in female reproduction. Here, we provide an all-encompassing overview of the latest advancements in immune modulation within the context of the female reproductive process. Our approach involves structuring our summary in accordance with the physiological sequence encompassing gonadogenesis, folliculogenesis within the ovaries, ovulation through the fallopian tubes, and the subsequent stages of embryo implantation and development within the uterus. Our overarching objective is to construct a comprehensive portrayal of the immune microenvironment (IME), thereby accentuating the pivotal role played by immune cells in governing the intricate female reproductive journey. Additionally, we emphasize the pressing need for heightened attention directed towards strategies that focus on immune interventions within the female reproductive process, with the ultimate aim of enhancing female fertility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mengyuan Dai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related of Women and Children of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Frontier Medical Center, Tianfu Jincheng Laboratory, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Ying Xu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related of Women and Children of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Frontier Medical Center, Tianfu Jincheng Laboratory, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Guidong Gong
- National Engineering Laboratory for Clean Technology of Leather Manufacture, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yaoyao Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related of Women and Children of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Frontier Medical Center, Tianfu Jincheng Laboratory, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Wilson CA, Batzel P, Postlethwait JH. Direct Male Development in Chromosomally ZZ Zebrafish. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.12.27.573483. [PMID: 38234788 PMCID: PMC10793451 DOI: 10.1101/2023.12.27.573483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
The genetics of sex determination varies across taxa, sometimes even within a species. Major domesticated strains of zebrafish ( Danio rerio ), including AB and TU, lack a strong genetic sex determining locus, but strains more recently derived from nature, like Nadia (NA), possess a ZZ male/ZW female chromosomal sex-determination system. AB strain fish pass through a juvenile ovary stage, forming oocytes that survive in fish that become females but die in fish that become males. To understand mechanisms of gonad development in NA zebrafish, we studied histology and single cell transcriptomics in developing ZZ and ZW fish. ZW fish developed oocytes by 22 days post-fertilization (dpf) but ZZ fish directly formed testes, avoiding a juvenile ovary phase. Gonads of some ZW and WW fish, however, developed oocytes that died as the gonad became a testis, mimicking AB fish, suggesting that the gynogenetically derived AB strain is chromosomally WW. Single-cell RNA-seq of 19dpf gonads showed similar cell types in ZZ and ZW fish, including germ cells, precursors of gonadal support cells, steroidogenic cells, interstitial/stromal cells, and immune cells, consistent with a bipotential juvenile gonad. In contrast, scRNA-seq of 30dpf gonads revealed that cells in ZZ gonads had transcriptomes characteristic of testicular Sertoli, Leydig, and germ cells while ZW gonads had granulosa cells, theca cells, and developing oocytes. Hematopoietic and vascular cells were similar in both sex genotypes. These results show that juvenile NA zebrafish initially develop a bipotential gonad; that a factor on the NA W chromosome or fewer than two Z chromosomes is essential to initiate oocyte development; and without the W factor or with two Z doses, NA gonads develop directly into testes without passing through the juvenile ovary stage. Sex determination in AB and TU strains mimics NA ZW and WW zebrafish, suggesting loss of the Z chromosome during domestication. Genetic analysis of the NA strain will facilitate our understanding of the evolution of sex determination mechanisms.
Collapse
|
19
|
Fattahi A, Zarezadeh R, Rastgar Rezaei Y, Mettler L, Nouri M, Schmutzler AG, Salmassi A. Expression of interleukin-1β and its receptor in human granulosa cells and their association with steroidogenesis. Tissue Cell 2023; 85:102230. [PMID: 37820554 DOI: 10.1016/j.tice.2023.102230] [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: 03/27/2023] [Revised: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate whether interleukin 1β (IL-1β) and soluble IL-1 receptor 2 (sIL-1R2) are expressed in human granulosa cells (GCs) and relate to ovarian steroidogenesis. Ninety-six women undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) were recruited. RT-PCR and immunocytochemistry were used to detect mRNAs and proteins of IL-1β and IL-1R2, respectively. The steroidogenesis of primary cultured GCs was evaluated following treatment with either IL-1β alone or IL-1β and FSH in combination. There were positive correlations between serum IL-1β and serum progesterone (r = 0.220, p = 0.032) and follicular fluid (FF) estradiol (r = 0.242, p = 0.018). Additionally, serum and FF sIL-1R2 were negatively and positively correlated with FF estradiol (r = -0.376, p = 0.005) and FF progesterone (r = 0.434, p = 0.001), respectively. The mRNA and protein expression of IL-1β and IL-1R2 became evident in GCs. IL-1β alone significantly increased estradiol secretion from GCs, but in the presence of FSH, it could notably promote progesterone secretion in addition to estradiol. In conclusion, IL-1β and sIL-1R2 are expressed in human GCs and substantially contribute to ovarian steroidogenesis, suggesting that the IL-1β system may be a potential target for optimizing ovarian hyperstimulation and steroidogenesis in IVF cycles.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amir Fattahi
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Department of Reproductive Biology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Reza Zarezadeh
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Yeganeh Rastgar Rezaei
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Liselotte Mettler
- Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, University Hospitals Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Kiel, Germany
| | - Mohammad Nouri
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Andreas G Schmutzler
- Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, University Hospitals Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Kiel, Germany.
| | - Ali Salmassi
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Department of Reproductive Biology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, University Hospitals Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Kiel, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Hedia M, Leroy JLMR, Govaere J, Van Soom A, Smits K. Lipid metabolites, interleukin-6 and oxidative stress markers in follicular fluid and their association with serum concentrations in mares. Vet Res Commun 2023; 47:2221-2228. [PMID: 37055645 DOI: 10.1007/s11259-023-10122-0] [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: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 04/15/2023]
Abstract
The application of trans-vaginal ovum pick up (OPU) and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) is well established for commercial in vitro embryo production in horses. These assisted reproductive techniques are especially applied during the non-breeding season of the mare. However, little is known about how the health of the oocyte donor may affect the biochemical composition of the follicular fluid (FF) in small and medium-sized follicles routinely aspirated during OPU. This study aimed to investigate associations between systemic and FF concentrations of interleukin-6 (IL-6), total cholesterol, triglycerides, non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA), reactive oxygen metabolites (d-ROMs), biological antioxidant potential (BAP), and oxidative stress index (OSI) during the non-breeding season in mares. At the slaughterhouse, serum and FF of small (5-10 mm in diameter), medium (> 10-20 mm in diameter), and large (> 20-30 mm in diameter) follicles were sampled from 12 healthy mares. There was a strong positive association (P < 0.01) between the concentration of IL-6 in serum and those measured in small (r = 0.846), medium (r = 0.999), and large (r = 0.996) follicles. Serum concentrations of NEFA were positively correlated (P < 0.05) with those measured in small (r = 0.726), medium (r = 0.720), and large (r = 0.974) follicles. Values of total cholesterol and OSI in serum and medium follicles were significantly associated (r = 0.736 and r = 0.696, respectively). The serum concentrations of all lipid metabolites were markedly higher than those measured in FF of small- and medium-sized follicles. Values of IL-6 and OSI did not change significantly between serum and all follicle classes (P ≥ 0.05). To conclude, changes in the blood composition associated with inflammation, oxidative stress, and disturbed lipid metabolism of mares may lead to an inadequate oocyte microenvironment, which could affect oocyte quality and the success rate of OPU/ICSI programs. Further research should indicate whether these changes may ultimately affect in vitro oocyte developmental capacity and subsequent embryo quality.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Hedia
- Gamete Research Centre, Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium.
- Theriogenology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt.
- Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium.
| | - Jo L M R Leroy
- Gamete Research Centre, Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Jan Govaere
- Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Ann Van Soom
- Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Katrien Smits
- Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Wang Y, Du YY, Yao W, Deng TR, Guo N, Yin L, Yuan XQ, Guo QC, Li J, Liao HM, Qin DY, Li YF. Associations between phthalate metabolites and cytokines in the follicular fluid of women undergoing in vitro fertilization. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2023; 267:115616. [PMID: 37871386 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.115616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Revised: 10/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023]
Abstract
Many studies have showed that phthalates have reproductive and embryonic toxicity, while the potential mechanisms are mostly unknown. Inflammation may play a mediating part in phthalate exposure and adverse reproductive endpoints. A cross-sectional survey was conducted to investigate the associations of phthalate metabolites with inflammatory cytokines in the follicular fluid (FF) of women undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF). We determined the levels of eight phthalate metabolites and five cytokines in the FF of 76 women, including interleukin (IL)- 6, IL-8, IL-10, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α). The associations of individual phthalate exposure with cytokines in FF samples were explored by multiple linear regression. We further evaluated the combined effects of multiple phthalate exposures on FF levels of cytokines by using Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR) models. We found that there was a positive relationship between mono-ethyl phthalate (MEP) and IL-6 in the FF (percent change:12.4%; 95% CI: 1.3%, 24.9%). In contrast, elevated mono-benzyl phthalate (MBzP), mono(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (MEHP) and %MEHP levels were associated with decreased MCP-1. In the BKMR models, phthalate metabolite mixtures were positively associated with TNF-α when the mixtures were lower than 65th percentile compared with their medians. In the stratified analyses, MEHP was inversely associated with MCP-1 among women with BMI ≥ 23 kg/m2 (test for interaction <0.05). Our results suggest that certain phthalate metabolites or their mixtures may alter levels of inflammatory cytokines in the FF, and further research is necessary to elucidate the mechanisms underlying the relationship between phthalates exposure, ovarian dysfunction and adverse pregnancy outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yi Wang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Yao-Yao Du
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Wen Yao
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Tao-Ran Deng
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Na Guo
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Li Yin
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Xiao-Qiong Yuan
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Qing-Chun Guo
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Juan Li
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Hong-Mei Liao
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Dan-Yu Qin
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Yu-Feng Li
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Zheng H, Choi H, Oh D, Kim M, Cai L, Jawad A, Kim S, Lee J, Hyun SH. Supplementation with fibroblast growth factor 7 during in vitro maturation of porcine cumulus-oocyte complexes improves oocyte maturation and early embryonic development. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1250551. [PMID: 38026656 PMCID: PMC10662523 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1250551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
In vitro generation of porcine embryos is an indispensable method in the realms of both agriculture and biomedicine. Nonetheless, the extant procedures encounter substantial obstacles pertaining to both the caliber and efficacy of the produced embryos, necessitating extensive research to in vitro maturation (IVM), the seminal commencement phase. One potentially fruitful approach may lie in refining the media and supplements composition utilized for oocyte maturation. Fibroblast growth factor-7 (FGF7), alternatively termed keratinocyte growth factor, is a theca-derived cytokine integral to folliculogenesis. This study aimed to examine the ramifications of supplementing FGF7 during the IVM phase. To determine the FGF7 location and its receptor in porcine ovaries, immunohistochemistry was executed based on follicle size categories (1-2, 3-6, and 7-9 mm). Regardless of follicle size, it was determined that FGF7 was expressed in theca and granulosa cells (GCs), whereas the FGF7 receptor was only expressed in the GCs of the larger follicles. During the IVM process, the maturation medium was supplied with various concentrations of FGF7, aiming to mature porcine cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs). The data indicated a significant augmentation in the nuclear maturation rate only within the group treated with 10 ng/mL of FGF7 (p < 0.05). Post-IVM, the oocytes diameter exhibited a significant expansion in all groups that received FGF7 supplementation (p < 0.05). Additionally, all FGF7-supplemented groups exhibited a substantial elevation in intracellular glutathione levels, coupled with a noticeable reduction in reactive oxygen species levels (p < 0.05). With respect to gene expressions related to apoptosis, FGF7 treatment elicited a downregulation of pro-apoptotic genes and an upregulation of anti-apoptotic genes. The expression of genes associated with antioxidants underwent a significant enhancement (p < 0.05). In terms of the FGF7 signaling pathway-associated genes, there was a significant elevation in the mRNA expression of ERK1, ERK2, c-kit, and KITLG (p < 0.05). Remarkably, the group of 10 ng/mL of FGF7 demonstrated an appreciable uptick in the blastocyst formation rate during embryonic development post-parthenogenetic activation (p < 0.05). In conclusion, the FGF7 supplementation during IVM substantially augments the quality of matured oocytes and facilitates the subsequent development of parthenogenetically activated embryos. These results offer fresh perspectives on improved maturation and following in vitro evolution of porcine oocytes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Haomiao Zheng
- Laboratory of Veterinary Embryology and Biotechnology (VETEMBIO), Veterinary Medical Center and College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine (ISCRM), Research Institute for Natural Science, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyerin Choi
- Laboratory of Veterinary Embryology and Biotechnology (VETEMBIO), Veterinary Medical Center and College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine (ISCRM), Research Institute for Natural Science, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
| | - Dongjin Oh
- Laboratory of Veterinary Embryology and Biotechnology (VETEMBIO), Veterinary Medical Center and College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine (ISCRM), Research Institute for Natural Science, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
| | - Mirae Kim
- Laboratory of Veterinary Embryology and Biotechnology (VETEMBIO), Veterinary Medical Center and College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine (ISCRM), Research Institute for Natural Science, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
| | - Lian Cai
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York (SUNY), Buffalo, NY, United States
| | - Ali Jawad
- Laboratory of Veterinary Embryology and Biotechnology (VETEMBIO), Veterinary Medical Center and College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine (ISCRM), Research Institute for Natural Science, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
| | - Sohee Kim
- Laboratory of Veterinary Embryology and Biotechnology (VETEMBIO), Veterinary Medical Center and College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine (ISCRM), Research Institute for Natural Science, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
| | - Joohyeong Lee
- Laboratory of Veterinary Embryology and Biotechnology (VETEMBIO), Veterinary Medical Center and College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine (ISCRM), Research Institute for Natural Science, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang-Hwan Hyun
- Laboratory of Veterinary Embryology and Biotechnology (VETEMBIO), Veterinary Medical Center and College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine (ISCRM), Research Institute for Natural Science, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
- Graduate School of Veterinary Biosecurity and Protection, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Feng Y, Tang Z, Zhang W. The role of macrophages in polycystic ovarian syndrome and its typical pathological features: A narrative review. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 167:115470. [PMID: 37716116 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Revised: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrine and metabolic disorder in women of childbearing age, with ovulatory dysfunction, hyperandrogenism, and polycystic ovarian morphology (PCOM) as the clinical features. Androgen excess, insulin resistance, obesity, adipose tissue dysfunction, ovulatory dysfunction, and gut microbiota dysbiosis are the main pathological features and pathogenesis of PCOS and are related to systemic chronic low-grade inflammation and chronic ovarian tissue inflammation in PCOS. With the advances in immune-endocrine interaction studies, research on the role of immune cells in the occurrence and development of PCOS is gradually increasing. As the core of innate immunity, macrophages play an indispensable role in systemic inflammatory response. Meanwhile, they are involved in maintaining the stability and function of the ovary as the most abundant immune cells in ovarian tissue. Studies in humans and mice have found that the polarization of macrophages into M1 type plays multiple roles in the pathogenesis of PCOS. This review describes the distribution characteristics of macrophage subpopulations in patients and animal models with PCOS, discusses the role of macrophage-related metabolic inflammation in PCOS, and summarizes the relationship between macrophages and PCOS-related pathological features and its possible mechanisms, to further understand the pathogenesis of PCOS and reveal the role of macrophages in it. In addition, research on immune-endocrine interactions can also provide direction for finding new therapeutic targets for PCOS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuanyuan Feng
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhijing Tang
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Etchevers L, Renna MS, Belotti EM, Diaz PU, Salvetti NR, Ortega HH, Amweg AN. ACTH impairs the migratory and secretory profile of mononuclear cells during proestrus in cattle. Res Vet Sci 2023; 164:105031. [PMID: 37804664 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2023.105031] [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: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/09/2023]
Abstract
The aim was to evaluate the effect of ACTH on the mechanisms involved in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) infiltration into the ovary during dairy cattle proestrus. Regarding this, proper expression pattern of adhesion molecules must take place both in PBMCs and in endothelial cells. Argentinian Holstein cows (n = 12) were treated with 100 IU of ACTH every 12 h for 4 days before ovulation when ovariectomy was performed (day 18). Blood samples were taken on day 15 (0 h) and immediately before (72 h) and after (74 h) the last ACTH administration. In PBMCs, flow cytometry was performed to analyze CD44, CD11b and CD62-L expression along with gene expression of chemokines' receptors. Interleukin (IL)-4 and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) production was analyzed by flow cytometry after exposing PBMCs to autologous follicular fluid. In ovarian blood vessels, expression of the vascular endothelium cell adhesion-1 (VCAM-1) and the platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule-1 was evaluated by immunohistochemistry. In T-lymphocytes, the expression of CD44 and CD11b was lower at 72 h in ACTH-treated cows (P < 0.05). In monocytes, the expression of CD11b and CD62-L was lower at 72 h in ACTH-treated cows (P < 0.05). Also, the percentage of IL-4+ cells was higher in ACTH-treated cows, meanwhile, the percentage TNF-α+ cells was lower in ACTH-treated cows (P < 0.05). Finally, in the vessels associated with the preovulatory follicle VCAM-1 immunoexpression was lower in ACTH-treated cows (P < 0.05). Here, we present novel insights into the effect of stress during the preovulatory period on the inflammatory pathway necessary for ovulation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- L Etchevers
- Laboratorio de Biología Celular y Molecular Aplicada, Instituto de Ciencias Veterinarias del Litoral (ICiVet-Litoral), Universidad Nacional del Litoral (UNL) / Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Tecnológicas (CONICET), Esperanza, Santa Fe, Argentina; Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional del Litoral (UNL), Esperanza, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - M S Renna
- Laboratorio de Biología Celular y Molecular Aplicada, Instituto de Ciencias Veterinarias del Litoral (ICiVet-Litoral), Universidad Nacional del Litoral (UNL) / Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Tecnológicas (CONICET), Esperanza, Santa Fe, Argentina; Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional del Litoral (UNL), Esperanza, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - E M Belotti
- Laboratorio de Biología Celular y Molecular Aplicada, Instituto de Ciencias Veterinarias del Litoral (ICiVet-Litoral), Universidad Nacional del Litoral (UNL) / Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Tecnológicas (CONICET), Esperanza, Santa Fe, Argentina; Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional del Litoral (UNL), Esperanza, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - P U Diaz
- Laboratorio de Biología Celular y Molecular Aplicada, Instituto de Ciencias Veterinarias del Litoral (ICiVet-Litoral), Universidad Nacional del Litoral (UNL) / Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Tecnológicas (CONICET), Esperanza, Santa Fe, Argentina; Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional del Litoral (UNL), Esperanza, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - N R Salvetti
- Laboratorio de Biología Celular y Molecular Aplicada, Instituto de Ciencias Veterinarias del Litoral (ICiVet-Litoral), Universidad Nacional del Litoral (UNL) / Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Tecnológicas (CONICET), Esperanza, Santa Fe, Argentina; Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional del Litoral (UNL), Esperanza, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - H H Ortega
- Laboratorio de Biología Celular y Molecular Aplicada, Instituto de Ciencias Veterinarias del Litoral (ICiVet-Litoral), Universidad Nacional del Litoral (UNL) / Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Tecnológicas (CONICET), Esperanza, Santa Fe, Argentina; Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional del Litoral (UNL), Esperanza, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - A N Amweg
- Laboratorio de Biología Celular y Molecular Aplicada, Instituto de Ciencias Veterinarias del Litoral (ICiVet-Litoral), Universidad Nacional del Litoral (UNL) / Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Tecnológicas (CONICET), Esperanza, Santa Fe, Argentina; Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional del Litoral (UNL), Esperanza, Santa Fe, Argentina.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Perrone R, Ashok Kumaar PV, Haky L, Hahn C, Riley R, Balough J, Zaza G, Soygur B, Hung K, Prado L, Kasler HG, Tiwari R, Matsui H, Hormazabal GV, Heckenbach I, Scheibye-Knudsen M, Duncan FE, Verdin E. CD38 regulates ovarian function and fecundity via NAD + metabolism. iScience 2023; 26:107949. [PMID: 37822499 PMCID: PMC10562803 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.107949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Revised: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Mammalian female reproductive lifespan is typically significantly shorter than life expectancy and is associated with a decrease in ovarian NAD+ levels. However, the mechanisms underlying this loss of ovarian NAD+ are unclear. Here, we show that CD38, an NAD+ consuming enzyme, is expressed in the ovarian extrafollicular space, primarily in immune cells, and its levels increase with reproductive age. Reproductively young mice lacking CD38 exhibit larger primordial follicle pools, elevated ovarian NAD+ levels, and increased fecundity relative to wild type controls. This larger ovarian reserve results from a prolonged window of follicle formation during early development. However, the beneficial effect of CD38 loss on reproductive function is not maintained at advanced age. Our results demonstrate a novel role of CD38 in regulating ovarian NAD+ metabolism and establishing the ovarian reserve, a critical process that dictates a female's reproductive lifespan.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Lauren Haky
- Buck Institute for Research on Aging, Novato, CA, USA
- The Dominican University of California, San Rafael, CA, USA
| | - Cosmo Hahn
- Buck Institute for Research on Aging, Novato, CA, USA
| | | | - Julia Balough
- Buck Institute for Research on Aging, Novato, CA, USA
| | - Giuliana Zaza
- Buck Institute for Research on Aging, Novato, CA, USA
| | - Bikem Soygur
- Buck Institute for Research on Aging, Novato, CA, USA
| | - Kaitlyn Hung
- Buck Institute for Research on Aging, Novato, CA, USA
| | - Leandro Prado
- Buck Institute for Research on Aging, Novato, CA, USA
| | | | - Ritesh Tiwari
- Buck Institute for Research on Aging, Novato, CA, USA
| | | | | | - Indra Heckenbach
- Center for Healthy Aging, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Morten Scheibye-Knudsen
- Center for Healthy Aging, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Francesca E. Duncan
- Buck Institute for Research on Aging, Novato, CA, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Eric Verdin
- Buck Institute for Research on Aging, Novato, CA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Liu D, Guan X, Liu W, Jia Y, Zhou H, Xi C, Zhao M, Fang Y, Wu L, Li K. Identification of transcriptome characteristics of granulosa cells and the possible role of UBE2C in the pathogenesis of premature ovarian insufficiency. J Ovarian Res 2023; 16:203. [PMID: 37848988 PMCID: PMC10580542 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-023-01266-3] [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: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) is an important cause of infertility characterized by the functional decline of the ovary. Granulosa cells (GCs) around oocytes are critical for folliculogenesis, and GC dysfunction is one of the important etiologies of POI. The aim of this study was to explore the potential biomarkers of POI by identifying hub genes and analyze the correlation of biomarkers with immune infiltration in POI using RNA profiling and bioinformatics analysis. METHODS RNA sequencing was performed on GCs from biochemical POI (bPOI) patients and controls. Differential expression analysis and weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) were used to explore the candidate genes. qRT‒PCR was performed to verify the expression of hub genes. Western blot, Cell Counting Kit-8, 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine (EdU) assays, TUNEL (TdT-mediated dUTP Nick-End Labeling) and flow cytometry analysis were used to validate the possible role of ubiquitin-conjugating enzyme 2C (UBE2C) in POI. CIBERSORT was adopted to explore immune cell infiltration and the correlation between UBE2C and immune cells in bPOI. RESULTS Through analysis of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and WGCNA, we obtained 143 candidate genes. After construction of the protein‒protein interaction (PPI) network and analysis with Cytoscape, 10 hub genes, including UBE2C, PBK, BUB1, CDC20, NUSAP1, CENPA, CCNB2, TOP2A, AURKB, and FOXM1, were identified and verified by qRT‒PCR. Subsequently, UBE2C was chosen as a possible biomarker of POI because knockdown of UBE2C could inhibit the proliferation and promote the apoptosis of GCs. Immune infiltration analysis indicated that monocytes and M1 macrophages may be associated with the pathogenesis of POI. In addition, UBE2C was negatively correlated with monocytes and M1 macrophages in POI. CONCLUSIONS This study identified a hub gene in GCs that might be important in the pathogenesis of POI and revealed the key role of UBE2C in driving POI. Immune infiltration may be highly related with the onset and etiology of POI.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dan Liu
- Centre for Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, 2699 Gaoke West Road, Pudong District, Shanghai, 201204, China
| | - Xiaohong Guan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Wenqiang Liu
- Centre for Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, 2699 Gaoke West Road, Pudong District, Shanghai, 201204, China
- Clinical and Translational Research Center of Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Signaling and Disease Research, Frontier Science Center for Stem Cell Research, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yanping Jia
- Centre for Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, 2699 Gaoke West Road, Pudong District, Shanghai, 201204, China
| | - Hong Zhou
- Centre for Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, 2699 Gaoke West Road, Pudong District, Shanghai, 201204, China
| | - Chenxiang Xi
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Clinical and Translational Research Center of Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Mei Zhao
- Centre for Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, 2699 Gaoke West Road, Pudong District, Shanghai, 201204, China
| | - Yuan Fang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Li Wu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Clinical and Translational Research Center of Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200092, China.
| | - Kunming Li
- Centre for Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, 2699 Gaoke West Road, Pudong District, Shanghai, 201204, China.
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Eubler K, Caban KM, Dissen GA, Berg U, Berg D, Herrmann C, Kreitmair N, Tiefenbacher A, Fröhlich T, Mayerhofer A. TRPV2, a novel player in the human ovary and human granulosa cells. Mol Hum Reprod 2023; 29:gaad029. [PMID: 37610352 PMCID: PMC10493183 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaad029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Revised: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 08/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The cation channel 'transient receptor potential vanilloid 2' (TRPV2) is activated by a broad spectrum of stimuli, including mechanical stretch, endogenous and exogenous chemical compounds, hormones, growth factors, reactive oxygen species, and cannabinoids. TRPV2 is known to be involved in inflammatory and immunological processes, which are also of relevance in the ovary. Yet, neither the presence nor possible roles of TRPV2 in the ovary have been investigated. Data mining indicated expression, for example, in granulosa cells (GCs) of the human ovary in situ, which was retained in cultured GCs derived from patients undergoing medical reproductive procedures. We performed immunohistochemistry of human and rhesus monkey ovarian sections and then cellular studies in cultured GCs, employing the preferential TRPV2 agonist cannabidiol (CBD). Immunohistochemistry showed TRPV2 staining in GCs of large antral follicles and corpus luteum but also in theca, endothelial, and stromal cells. TRPV2 transcript and protein levels increased upon administration of hCG or forskolin. Acutely, application of the agonist CBD elicited transient Ca2+ fluxes, which was followed by the production and secretion of several inflammatory factors, especially COX2, IL6, IL8, and PTX3, in a time- and dose-dependent manner. CBD interfered with progesterone synthesis and altered both the proteome and secretome, as revealed by a proteomic study. While studies are somewhat hampered by the lack of highly specific TRPV2 agonist or antagonists, the results pinpoint TRPV2 as a modulator of inflammation with possible roles in human ovarian (patho-)physiology. Finally, as TRPV2 is activated by cannabinoids, their possible ovarian actions should be further evaluated.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katja Eubler
- Biomedical Center Munich (BMC), Cell Biology, Anatomy III, Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilian-University (LMU) Munich, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | - Karolina M Caban
- Laboratory for Functional Genome Analysis LAFUGA, Gene Center, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Gregory A Dissen
- Molecular Virology Core, Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU), Oregon National Primate Research Center, Beaverton, OR, USA
| | | | | | - Carola Herrmann
- Biomedical Center Munich (BMC), Cell Biology, Anatomy III, Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilian-University (LMU) Munich, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | - Nicole Kreitmair
- Biomedical Center Munich (BMC), Cell Biology, Anatomy III, Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilian-University (LMU) Munich, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | - Astrid Tiefenbacher
- Biomedical Center Munich (BMC), Cell Biology, Anatomy III, Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilian-University (LMU) Munich, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | - Thomas Fröhlich
- Laboratory for Functional Genome Analysis LAFUGA, Gene Center, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Artur Mayerhofer
- Biomedical Center Munich (BMC), Cell Biology, Anatomy III, Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilian-University (LMU) Munich, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Ding X, Zhang Y, Li D, Xu J, Wu C, Cui X, Sun Y. Comparative transcriptomic analysis of reproductive characteristics of reciprocal hybrid lineages derived from hybridization between Megalobrama amblycephala and Culter alburnus. BMC Genom Data 2023; 24:45. [PMID: 37573319 PMCID: PMC10422732 DOI: 10.1186/s12863-023-01141-6] [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: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Distant hybridization is an important breeding technique for creating new strains with superior traits by integrating two different genomes. Successful hybridization of Megalobrama amblycephala (Blunt snout bream, BSB, 2n = 48) and Culter alburnus (Topmouth culter, TC, 2n = 48) was achieved to establish hybrid lineages (BT and TB), which provide valuable materials for exploring the mechanisms of distant hybridization fertility. In this study, the gonadal tissue transcriptomes of BSB, TC, BT-F1, and TB-F1 were sequenced using Illumina high-throughput sequencing technology to analyze the reproductive characteristics of BT and TB. RESULTS Differential gene expression analysis showed that the differentially expressed genes in BT vs BSB and BT vs TC were mainly enriched in signaling pathways not directly associated with meiosis. While, the differentially expressed genes of TB vs BSB and TB vs TC were mainly enriched in pathways related to meiosis, and most of them were down-regulated, indicating that meiosis is suppressed in TB. Under-dominance (UD) genes were enriched in pathways related to meiosis and DNA repair in TB. Over-dominance (OD) genes were enriched in MAPK signaling pathway, expression level dominance-BSB (ELD-B) genes were enriched in pathways related to steroid hormone synthesis and expression level dominance-TC (ELD-T) genes were not significantly enriched in any pathway in both BT and TB. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that meiotic progression may not be affected in BT, whereas it is clearly inhibited in TB. Offspring of M. amblycephala maternal parent may have better genomic compatibility and fertility. Our study provides important information on the molecular mechanisms of breaking reproductive isolation in distantly hybridized fertile lineages.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xue Ding
- School of Life Science and Health, Hunan University of Science and Technology, Xiangtan, 411201, Hunan, China
| | - Yifei Zhang
- School of Life Science and Health, Hunan University of Science and Technology, Xiangtan, 411201, Hunan, China
| | - Die Li
- School of Life Science and Health, Hunan University of Science and Technology, Xiangtan, 411201, Hunan, China
| | - Jia Xu
- School of Life Science and Health, Hunan University of Science and Technology, Xiangtan, 411201, Hunan, China
| | - Chang Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Developmental Biology of Freshwater Fishes, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, Hunan, China
| | - Xiaojuan Cui
- School of Life Science and Health, Hunan University of Science and Technology, Xiangtan, 411201, Hunan, China.
| | - Yuandong Sun
- School of Life Science and Health, Hunan University of Science and Technology, Xiangtan, 411201, Hunan, China.
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Kicińska AM, Maksym RB, Zabielska-Kaczorowska MA, Stachowska A, Babińska A. Immunological and Metabolic Causes of Infertility in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. Biomedicines 2023; 11:1567. [PMID: 37371662 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11061567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Infertility has been recognized as a civilizational disease. One of the most common causes of infertility is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Closely interrelated immunometabolic mechanisms underlie the development of this complex syndrome and lead to infertility. The direct cause of infertility in PCOS is ovulation and implantation disorders caused by low-grade inflammation of ovarian tissue and endometrium which, in turn, result from immune and metabolic system disorders. The systemic immune response, in particular the inflammatory response, in conjunction with metabolic disorders, insulin resistance (IR), hyperadrenalism, insufficient secretion of progesterone, and oxidative stress lead not only to cardiovascular diseases, cancer, autoimmunity, and lipid metabolism disorders but also to infertility. Depending on the genetic and environmental conditions as well as certain cultural factors, some diseases may occur immediately, while others may become apparent years after an infertility diagnosis. Each of them alone can be a significant factor contributing to the development of PCOS and infertility. Further research will allow clinical management protocols to be established for PCOS patients experiencing infertility so that a targeted therapy approach can be applied to the factor underlying and driving the "vicious circle" alongside symptomatic treatment and ovulation stimulation. Hence, therapy of fertility for PCOS should be conducted by interdisciplinary teams of specialists as an in-depth understanding of the molecular relationships and clinical implications between the immunological and metabolic factors that trigger reproductive system disorders is necessary to restore the physiology and homeostasis of the body and, thus, fertility, among PCOS patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandra Maria Kicińska
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Gdansk, ul. Debinki 1, 80-210 Gdansk, Poland
| | - Radoslaw B Maksym
- 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Centre for Postgraduate Medical Education, ul. Żelazna 90, 02-004 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Magdalena A Zabielska-Kaczorowska
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Gdansk, ul. Debinki 1, 80-210 Gdansk, Poland
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Gdansk, ul. Debinki 1, 80-210 Gdansk, Poland
| | - Aneta Stachowska
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Gdansk, ul. Debinki 1, 80-210 Gdansk, Poland
| | - Anna Babińska
- Department of Endocrinology and Internal Medicine, Medical University of Gdansk, 80-210 Gdansk, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Banerjee S, Cooney LG, Stanic AK. Immune Dysfunction in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. Immunohorizons 2023; 7:323-332. [PMID: 37195871 PMCID: PMC10579973 DOI: 10.4049/immunohorizons.2200033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrine disorder in reproductive-aged individuals with ovaries. It is associated with anovulation and increased risk to fertility and metabolic, cardiovascular, and psychological health. The pathophysiology of PCOS is still inadequately understood, although there is evidence of persistent low-grade inflammation, which correlates with associated visceral obesity. Elevated proinflammatory cytokine markers and altered immune cells have been reported in PCOS and raise the possibility that immune factors contribute to ovulatory dysfunction. Because normal ovulation is modulated by immune cells and cytokines in the ovarian microenvironment, the endocrine and metabolic abnormalities associated with PCOS orchestrate the accompanying adverse effects on ovulation and implantation. This review evaluates the current literature on the relationship between PCOS and immune abnormalities, with a focus on emerging research in the field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Soma Banerjee
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Wisconsin–Madison, Madison, WI
| | - Laura G. Cooney
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Wisconsin–Madison
| | - Aleksandar K. Stanic
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Wisconsin–Madison, Madison, WI
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Wisconsin–Madison
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Du S, Wang Y, Yang X, Liu X, Deng K, Chen M, Yan X, Lu F, Shi D. Beneficial effects of fibroblast growth factor 10 supplementation during in vitro maturation of buffalo cumulus-oocyte complexes. Theriogenology 2023; 201:126-137. [PMID: 36893617 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.02.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2022] [Revised: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 02/26/2023]
Abstract
Fibroblast growth factor 10 (FGF10) is an important regulator of the mammalian cumulus-oocyte complex that plays a crucial role in oocyte maturation. In this study, we investigated the effects of FGF10 supplementation on the in vitro maturation (IVM) of buffalo oocytes and its related mechanisms. During IVM, the maturation medium was supplemented with a range of concentrations of FGF10 (0, 0.5, 5, and 50 ng/mL) and the resulting effects were corroborated using aceto-orcein staining, TUNEL apoptosis assay, detection of Cdc2/Cdk1 kinase in oocytes, and real-time quantitative PCR. In matured oocytes, the 5 ng/mL-FGF10 treatment resulted in a significantly increased nuclear maturation rate, which increased the activity of maturation-promoting factor (MPF) and enhanced buffalo oocyte maturation. Furthermore, it treatment significantly inhibited the apoptosis of cumulus cells, while simultaneously promoting its proliferation and expansion. This treatment also increased the absorption of glucose in cumulus cells. Thus, our results indicate that adding an appropriate concentration of FGF10 to a maturation medium during IVM can be beneficial to the maturation of buffalo oocytes and improve the potential of embryo development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shanshan Du
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Animal Reproduction Institute, Guangxi University, Nanning, China; Department of Reproductive Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Yanxin Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Animal Reproduction Institute, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Xiaofen Yang
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Animal Reproduction Institute, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Xiaohua Liu
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Animal Reproduction Institute, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Kai Deng
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Animal Reproduction Institute, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Mengjia Chen
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Animal Reproduction Institute, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Xi Yan
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Animal Reproduction Institute, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Fenghua Lu
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Animal Reproduction Institute, Guangxi University, Nanning, China.
| | - Deshun Shi
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Animal Reproduction Institute, Guangxi University, Nanning, China.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Kim S, Oh D, Choi H, Kim M, Cai L, Jawad A, Haomiao Z, Lee J, Kim E, Hyun SH. The effect of C–C motif chemokine ligand 2 supplementation on in vitro maturation of porcine cumulus-oocyte complexes and subsequent developmental competence after parthenogenetic activation. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1136705. [PMID: 36992978 PMCID: PMC10040565 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1136705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Porcine embryos are used for a variety of applications. However, the maturation rate in vitro remains low, and novel in vitro maturation (IVM) techniques that facilitate the collection of mature oocytes are necessary. C-C motif chemokine ligand 2 (CCL2) is a key periovulatory chemokine present in cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs). We aimed to examine the effects of CCL2 supplementation during IVM on oocyte maturation and embryonic development. The CCL2 concentration was significantly higher in porcine follicular fluid (pFF) derived from follicles >8 mm in size than in pFF derived from smaller follicles. There was a significant increase in CCL2 mRNA levels in all follicular cells after IVM compared with that before IVM. We analyzed the localization of CCL2 and its receptor, the CCL2 receptor, in follicular cells. During IVM, different concentrations of CCL2 were added to COCs cultured in a maturation medium. After IVM, the group treated with 100 ng/mL CCL2 showed significantly higher metaphase II rates than the control group. All CCL2-treatment groups showed a significant increase in intracellular glutathione levels and a significant decrease in reactive oxygen species levels, compared to the control. In CCs treated with 100 ng/mL CCL2, the mRNA levels of BAX, CASP3, and NPR2 were significantly decreased. Furthermore, the mRNA levels of SOD1, SOD2, and CD44 were significantly increased. In oocytes treated with 10 ng/mL CCL2, mRNA levels of BAX and CASP3 were significantly decreased, whereas, NRF2 and NPM2 were significantly increased. ERK1 exhibited significantly increased mRNA expression in both CCs and oocytes treated with 10 ng/mL CCL2. The protein expression ratio of phosphorylated ERK1/2 to total ERK1/2 was significantly increased in CCs treated with 10 ng/mL CCL2. After parthenogenetic activation, cleavage rates were significantly improved in the 100 ng/mL CCL2 treatment group, and blastocyst formation rates were significantly enhanced in the 10 ng/mL CCL2 treatment group. Overall, our results suggest that IVM medium along with CCL2 improves porcine oocyte maturation and the development of parthenogenetically-activated embryos.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sohee Kim
- Laboratory of Veterinary Embryology and Biotechnology, Veterinary Medical Center and College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
| | - Dongjin Oh
- Laboratory of Veterinary Embryology and Biotechnology, Veterinary Medical Center and College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyerin Choi
- Laboratory of Veterinary Embryology and Biotechnology, Veterinary Medical Center and College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
| | - Mirae Kim
- Laboratory of Veterinary Embryology and Biotechnology, Veterinary Medical Center and College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
| | - Lian Cai
- Laboratory of Veterinary Embryology and Biotechnology, Veterinary Medical Center and College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
- Graduate School of Veterinary Biosecurity and Protection, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
| | - Ali Jawad
- Laboratory of Veterinary Embryology and Biotechnology, Veterinary Medical Center and College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
| | - Zheng Haomiao
- Laboratory of Veterinary Embryology and Biotechnology, Veterinary Medical Center and College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
| | - Joohyeong Lee
- Laboratory of Veterinary Embryology and Biotechnology, Veterinary Medical Center and College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
| | - Eunhye Kim
- Laboratory of Molecular Diagnostics and Cell Biology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Republic of Korea
- *Correspondence: Eunhye Kim
| | - Sang-Hwan Hyun
- Laboratory of Veterinary Embryology and Biotechnology, Veterinary Medical Center and College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
- Graduate School of Veterinary Biosecurity and Protection, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
- Sang-Hwan Hyun
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Pellicer N, Cozzolino M, Diaz-García C, Galliano D, Cobo A, Pellicer A, Herraiz S. Ovarian rescue in women with premature ovarian insufficiency: facts and fiction. Reprod Biomed Online 2023; 46:543-565. [PMID: 36710157 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2022.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Revised: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 12/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The ovary has a comparatively short functional lifespan compared with other organs, and genetic and pathological injuries can further shorten its functional life. Thus, preserving ovarian function should be considered in the context of women with threats to ovarian reserve, such as ageing, premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) and diminished ovarian reserve (DOR). Indeed, one-third of women with POI retain resting follicles that can be reactivated to produce competent oocytes, as proved by the in-vitro activation of dormant follicles. This paper discusses mechanisms and clinical data relating to new therapeutic strategies using ovarian fragmentation, stem cells or platelet-rich plasma to regain ovarian function in women of older age (>38 years) or with POI or DOR. Follicle reactivation techniques show promising experimental outcomes and have been successful in some cases, when POI is established or DOR diagnosed; however, there is scarce clinical evidence to warrant their widespread clinical use. Beyond these contexts, also discussed is how new insights into the biological mechanisms governing follicular dynamics and oocyte competence may play a role in reversing ovarian damage, as no technique modifies oocyte quality. Additional studies should focus on increasing follicle number and quality. Finally, there is a small but important subgroup of women lacking residual follicles and requiring oocyte generation from stem cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - César Diaz-García
- IVI London, EGA Institute for Women's Health, UCL, London, UK; IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
| | | | - Ana Cobo
- IVI RMA Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Antonio Pellicer
- IVI RMA Rome, Rome, Italy; IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
| | - Sonia Herraiz
- IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain.
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Pei J, Xiong L, Guo S, Wang X, Bao P, Wu X, Yan P, Guo X. A single-cell transcriptomic atlas characterizes cell types and their molecular features in yak ovarian cortex. FASEB J 2023; 37:e22718. [PMID: 36527406 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202201176rr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Revised: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The ovary as one of the most dynamic organs produces steroids to orchestrate female secondary sexual characteristics, harbors ovarian reserve for oocytes, releases mature oocytes for fertilization, and maintains pregnancy. Yak (Bos grunniens) is the only bovid animal that can adapt to the harsh climatic conditions on the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau (altitudes of over 3000 m above sea level). However, the cellular atlas is composed of oocytes and other somatic cells, and their individual molecular characteristics remain to be elucidated in the yak ovary. Here, single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) was performed to delineate the molecular signature of various cell types in the yak ovarian cortex. A cellular atlas of yak ovarian cortex was constructed successfully on the basis of the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) from the distinct cell types and their functional enrichment analysis, comprising endothelial cells, nature kill cells, stromal cells, smooth muscle cells, oocytes, macrophages, epithelial cells, and granulosa cells. Meanwhile, the signature genes were determined based on their expression specificity in each cell type. A cell-to-cell communication network was built in light of the differentially overexpressed ligand and receptor genes from each cell type. Further, the oocytes were subdivided into four subtypes based on their individual DEGs and the functional enrichment of the DEGs. FST and TOP2A were identified as maker genes for oocytes by immunostaining in the yak ovarian cortex. The cellular atlas reveals the biological characteristics of the ovarian cortex at the cellular molecular level and provides insights into female reproductive biology via cellular communications in the yak.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jie Pei
- Key Laboratory of Yak Breeding Engineering of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding on Tibetan Plateau, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Lanzhou, China
| | - Lin Xiong
- Key Laboratory of Yak Breeding Engineering of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding on Tibetan Plateau, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Lanzhou, China
| | - Shaoke Guo
- Key Laboratory of Yak Breeding Engineering of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, China
| | - Xingdong Wang
- Key Laboratory of Yak Breeding Engineering of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, China
| | - Pengjia Bao
- Key Laboratory of Yak Breeding Engineering of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding on Tibetan Plateau, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Lanzhou, China
| | - Xiaoyun Wu
- Key Laboratory of Yak Breeding Engineering of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding on Tibetan Plateau, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Lanzhou, China
| | - Ping Yan
- Key Laboratory of Yak Breeding Engineering of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding on Tibetan Plateau, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Lanzhou, China
| | - Xian Guo
- Key Laboratory of Yak Breeding Engineering of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding on Tibetan Plateau, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Lanzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Hortal M, Fabregat A, Lledo B, Ortiz JA, Moliner B, Bernabeu A, Bernabeu R. IL-6/IL-10 and IL-1β/IL-4 ratios associated with poor ovarian response in women undergoing in-vitro fertilization. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2023; 280:68-72. [PMID: 36410244 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2022.11.012] [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: 05/16/2022] [Revised: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this work was to evaluate whether serum cytokines levels are associated with ovarian response in IVF. 149 patients were included in a retrospective study. Cytokines IL-2, IL-4, IL- 6, IL-8, IL-10, VEGF, IFNγ, TNFα, IL-1α, IL-1β, MCP-1 and EGF were measured by sandwich immunoassay previously to ovarian stimulation. Performing hierarchical cluster analysis, we observed that the antral follicle count, the total oocytes recovered and the MII recovered are grouped in the same cluster as the cytokines IL-2-4-6-10-1α-1β, IFNγ y TNFα. Then, we found that the ratio between IL and 6 and IL-10 was higher in low responder women (2.15 versus 1.55; p = 0.035). If we establish 0.9 as a cut-off for the IL-6/IL-10, we observed that above this value the risk of having a low response to ovarian stimulation was more than 3 times greater than below this value (22.9 % versus 6.0 %; p = 0.007). Also, the ratio IL-1β/IL-4 was higher in patients with normal or suboptimal response (0.62 versus 0.34; p = 0.034) and any patient with low response had a value greater than 0.7 (p = 0.003). As a conclusion, the IL-6/IL-10 and IL-1β/IL-4 ratios showed differences between normoresponder women and patients with low ovarian response.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Hortal
- Instituto Bernabeu Biotech, 03016 Alicante, Spain
| | - A Fabregat
- Instituto Bernabeu Biotech, 03016 Alicante, Spain
| | - B Lledo
- Instituto Bernabeu Biotech, 03016 Alicante, Spain.
| | - J A Ortiz
- Instituto Bernabeu Biotech, 03016 Alicante, Spain
| | - B Moliner
- Instituto Bernabeu of Fertility and Gynaecology, 03016 Alicante, Spain
| | - A Bernabeu
- Instituto Bernabeu of Fertility and Gynaecology, 03016 Alicante, Spain
| | - R Bernabeu
- Instituto Bernabeu of Fertility and Gynaecology, 03016 Alicante, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Oh D, Choi H, Kim M, Cai L, Lee J, Jawad A, Kim S, Zheng H, Lee G, Jeon Y, Hyun SH. Interleukin-7 enhances in vitro development and blastocyst quality in porcine parthenogenetic embryos. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:1052856. [PMID: 36570506 PMCID: PMC9772438 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.1052856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Interleukin-7 (IL-7), a vital factor that affects cell development, proliferation, and survival, plays an important role in oocyte maturation. However, its role in embryonic development remains unknown. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of IL-7 supplementation on in vitro culture (IVC) of porcine embryos after parthenogenetic activation (PA) based on characteristics such as cleavage, blastocyst formation rate, intracellular glutathione (GSH) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels in cleaved embryos, total cell number, apoptosis rate, and cell lineage specification in blastocysts. Immunofluorescence revealed that IL-7 and its receptor, IL-7Rα (IL-7R) localized in the cytoplasm of porcine parthenote embryos. By supplementing the IVC medium (PZM5) with various concentrations of IL-7, an optimal concentration that enhanced embryonic development, promoted intracellular GSH, and decreased ROS levels in the cleavage stage during porcine embryo IVC was determined. Investigation of mRNA expression patterns via qRT-PCR suggested that IL-7 possibly regulated maternal mRNA clearance and zygotic genome activation. Furthermore, IL-7 supplementation reduced blastocyst apoptosis, enhanced the expression of the inner cell mass marker SOX2, and phosphorylated STAT5 levels in the blastocysts. Moreover, it altered the transcription patterns of genes that regulate apoptosis, IL-7 signaling, and development. Thus, we demonstrated the localization of IL-7 and IL-7R in porcine preimplantation embryos in vitro for the first time. Furthermore, we suggest that IL-7 supplementation can be employed to enhance embryonic development and blastocyst quality based on the activation of the transcripts of genes that are involved in developmental competence and IL-7 signaling during in vitro porcine embryo development following PA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dongjin Oh
- Laboratory of Veterinary Embryology and Biotechnology (VETEMBIO), Veterinary Medical Center and College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, South Korea,Institute of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine (ISCRM), Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, South Korea
| | - Hyerin Choi
- Laboratory of Veterinary Embryology and Biotechnology (VETEMBIO), Veterinary Medical Center and College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, South Korea,Institute of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine (ISCRM), Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, South Korea
| | - Mirae Kim
- Laboratory of Veterinary Embryology and Biotechnology (VETEMBIO), Veterinary Medical Center and College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, South Korea,Institute of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine (ISCRM), Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, South Korea
| | - Lian Cai
- Laboratory of Veterinary Embryology and Biotechnology (VETEMBIO), Veterinary Medical Center and College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, South Korea,Institute of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine (ISCRM), Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, South Korea,Graduate School of Veterinary Biosecurity and Protection, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, South Korea
| | - Joohyeong Lee
- Laboratory of Veterinary Embryology and Biotechnology (VETEMBIO), Veterinary Medical Center and College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, South Korea,Institute of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine (ISCRM), Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, South Korea
| | - Ali Jawad
- Laboratory of Veterinary Embryology and Biotechnology (VETEMBIO), Veterinary Medical Center and College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, South Korea,Institute of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine (ISCRM), Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, South Korea
| | - Sohee Kim
- Laboratory of Veterinary Embryology and Biotechnology (VETEMBIO), Veterinary Medical Center and College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, South Korea,Institute of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine (ISCRM), Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, South Korea
| | - Haomiao Zheng
- Laboratory of Veterinary Embryology and Biotechnology (VETEMBIO), Veterinary Medical Center and College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, South Korea,Institute of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine (ISCRM), Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, South Korea
| | - Gabsang Lee
- Department of Neurology, Institute for Cell Engineering, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins Medicine, Baltimore, ML, United States
| | - Yubyeol Jeon
- Laboratory of Theriogenology and Reproductive Biotechnology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jeonbuk National University, Iksan, South Korea,*Correspondence: Yubyeol Jeon
| | - Sang-Hwan Hyun
- Laboratory of Veterinary Embryology and Biotechnology (VETEMBIO), Veterinary Medical Center and College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, South Korea,Institute of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine (ISCRM), Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, South Korea,Graduate School of Veterinary Biosecurity and Protection, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, South Korea,Sang-Hwan Hyun
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Biswas A, Ng BH, Prabhakaran VS, Chan CJ. Squeezing the eggs to grow: The mechanobiology of mammalian folliculogenesis. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:1038107. [PMID: 36531957 PMCID: PMC9756970 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.1038107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 08/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The formation of functional eggs (oocyte) in ovarian follicles is arguably one of the most important events in early mammalian development since the oocytes provide the bulk genetic and cytoplasmic materials for successful reproduction. While past studies have identified many genes that are critical to normal ovarian development and function, recent studies have highlighted the role of mechanical force in shaping folliculogenesis. In this review, we discuss the underlying mechanobiological principles and the force-generating cellular structures and extracellular matrix that control the various stages of follicle development. We also highlight emerging techniques that allow for the quantification of mechanical interactions and follicular dynamics during development, and propose new directions for future studies in the field. We hope this review will provide a timely and useful framework for future understanding of mechano-signalling pathways in reproductive biology and diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arikta Biswas
- Mechanobiology Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Boon Heng Ng
- Mechanobiology Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | | | - Chii Jou Chan
- Mechanobiology Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
The intrafollicular concentration of leptin as a potential biomarker to predict oocyte maturity in in-vitro fertilization. Sci Rep 2022; 12:19573. [PMID: 36379980 PMCID: PMC9666526 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-23737-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Oocyte maturity is critical to the development potential of the embryo and pregnancy outcomes in natural and in-vitro fertilization (IVF). In IVF, oocyte maturity is typically evaluated using morphological criteria, although such assessment remains highly subjective. To identify reliable biomarkers of oocyte maturity, this study investigates the relationship between follicular cytokine concentrations and oocyte maturity in IVF patients with different ovarian reserves. In this prospective study, follicular fluid was collected during oocyte retrieval and the concentrations of cytokines involved in ovarian folliculogenesis were determined. Follicular fluid cytokine concentrations were compared between participants in three groups according to serum anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) concentration, as follows: low AMH, < 2 ng/mL; normal AMH, 2-5 ng/mL; and high AMH, > 5 ng/mL. Pearson's correlation coefficient analysis showed that the number of mature oocytes correlated positively and strongly with serum AMH level (r = 0.719; p < 0.01). The leptin concentration in follicular fluid was significantly higher in women with normal AMH level than in those with low or high levels. ROC curve analysis showed that the follicular fluid levels of leptin (area under ROC curve, 0.829; 95% confidence interval, 0.659-0.998; p < 0.01) and SCF (area under ROC curve, 0.706; 95% confidence interval, 0.491-0.921; p = 0.087) were the best predictors of oocyte maturity. At an optimal cut-off value of 16 ng/mL, leptin had positive predictive value (sensitivity) up to 70% and negative predictive value (specificity) of 91% for indicating oocyte maturity. The concentration of leptin in follicular fluid is closely related to ovarian reserve and may serve as a biomarker to predict oocyte maturity.
Collapse
|
39
|
Li W, Zeng W, Jin X, Xu H, Fang X, Ma Z, Cao G, Li R, Ma L. High-Altitude Stress Orchestrates mRNA Expression and Alternative Splicing of Ovarian Follicle Development Genes in Tibetan Sheep. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:2812. [PMID: 36290198 PMCID: PMC9597790 DOI: 10.3390/ani12202812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Revised: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 10/01/2023] Open
Abstract
High-altitude stress threatens the survival rate of Tibetan sheep and reduces their fertility. However, the molecular basis of this phenomenon remains elusive. Here, we used RNA-seq to elucidate the transcriptome dynamics of high-altitude stress in Tibetan sheep ovaries. In total, 104 genes were characterized as high-altitude stress-related differentially expressed genes (DEGs). In addition, 36 DEGs contributed to ovarian follicle development, and 28 of them were downregulated under high-altitude stress. In particular, high-altitude stress significantly suppressed the expression of two ovarian lymphatic system marker genes: LYVE1 and ADAMTS-1. Network analysis revealed that luteinizing hormone (LH)/follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) signaling-related genes, such as EGR1, FKBP5, DUSP1, and FOS, were central regulators in the DEG network, and these genes were also suppressed under high-altitude stress. As a post-transcriptional regulation mechanism, alternative splicing (AS) is ubiquitous in Tibetan sheep. High-altitude stress induced 917 differentially alternative splicing (DAS) events. High-altitude stress modulated DAS in an AS-type-specific manner: suppressing skipped exon events but increasing retained intron events. C2H2-type zinc finger transcription factors and RNA processing factors were mainly enriched in DAS. These findings revealed high-altitude stress repressed ovarian development by suppressing the gene expression of LH/FSH hormone signaling genes and inducing intron retention of C2H2-type zinc finger transcription factors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wenhao Li
- Academy of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Qinghai University, Xining 810016, China
| | - Weike Zeng
- College of Forestry, School of Future Technology, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
- College of Life Sciences, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Xiayang Jin
- Academy of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Qinghai University, Xining 810016, China
| | - Huiming Xu
- College of Forestry, School of Future Technology, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Xingyan Fang
- College of Forestry, School of Future Technology, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
- College of Life Sciences, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Zhijie Ma
- Academy of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Qinghai University, Xining 810016, China
| | - Gangjian Cao
- College of Forestry, School of Future Technology, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Ruizhe Li
- Academy of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Qinghai University, Xining 810016, China
| | - Liuyin Ma
- College of Forestry, School of Future Technology, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Han MT, Cheng W, Zhu R, Wu HH, Ding J, Zhao NN, Li H, Wang FX. The cytokine profiles in follicular fluid and reproductive outcomes in women with endometriosis. Am J Reprod Immunol 2022; 89:e13633. [PMID: 36250899 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Revised: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM Endometriosis patients undergoing in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer (IVF-ET) treatment suffer from poor oocyte quality, a reduced likelihood of the fertilization rate, and low embryo quality. The dysregulation of immune cells and cytokine profiles in the follicular fluid (FF) may play an important role in the competence of the oocyte and the development of the embryo, but the mechanism remains largely unknown. METHOD OF STUDY A total of 40 proved advanced staged endometriosis patients were enrolled in this study. The pregnancy results were followed until all the embryos collected by the first oocyte retrieval cycle were used up. The immune cells subtypes in FF and serum collected on the day of oocyte retrieval were detected by flow cytometry and 27 cytokines were determined using the Bio-Plex Pro Human Cytokine 27-Plex Immunoassay. The specific effect of cytokine on the gene expression of human granulosa cells was determined by RT-qPCR. RESULTS The fertilization rate and the cumulative live birth rate were significantly lower in the endometriosis group. The ratio of CD4+ /CD8+ T cells in FF was significantly lower, while the level of IP-10, RANTES and G-CSF were statistically higher in the endometriosis group. The level of IP-10 correlated with the IVF outcome. Moreover, treated by IP-10, the mRNA level of FSHR and CYP19A1 the human granulosa cells were downregulated in vitro. CONCLUSION These results suggest that alterations of the lymphocyte subsets and cytokines in women with advanced endometriosis may have an impact on the oocyte development and resulting in poorer IVF outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mu-Tian Han
- Center of Human Reproduction and Genetics, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, China.,Department of Immunology, Anhui medical university, Hefei, China
| | - Wei Cheng
- Center of Human Reproduction and Genetics, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, China
| | - Rui Zhu
- Center of Human Reproduction and Genetics, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, China
| | - Hui-Hua Wu
- Center of Human Reproduction and Genetics, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, China
| | - Jie Ding
- Center of Human Reproduction and Genetics, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, China
| | - Nan-Nan Zhao
- Center of Human Reproduction and Genetics, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, China
| | - Hong Li
- Center of Human Reproduction and Genetics, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, China
| | - Fu-Xin Wang
- Center of Human Reproduction and Genetics, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Godakumara K, Dissanayake K, Hasan MM, Kodithuwakku SP, Fazeli A. Role of extracellular vesicles in intercellular communication during reproduction. Reprod Domest Anim 2022; 57 Suppl 5:14-21. [PMID: 35837748 PMCID: PMC9796405 DOI: 10.1111/rda.14205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
The mammalian reproduction is a process of controlled cellular growth and development regulated by constant communication between the gametes, the subsequent embryo and the maternal system. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are involved in these communications to a significant degree from the gamete production and maturation to fertilization, embryo development and implantation. They regulate the cellular physiology and the immune reaction to bring about a favourable environment for a successful pregnancy. Deciphering the mechanisms employed in EV-mediated embryo maternal communication could improve our knowledge in mammalian reproduction and increase the efficiency of animal breeding.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kasun Godakumara
- Department of Pathophysiology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational MedicineFaculty of Medicine, Tartu UniversityTartuEstonia,Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal SciencesEstonian University of Life SciencesTartuEstonia
| | - Keerthie Dissanayake
- Department of Pathophysiology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational MedicineFaculty of Medicine, Tartu UniversityTartuEstonia,Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal SciencesEstonian University of Life SciencesTartuEstonia,Department of Anatomy, Faculty of MedicineUniversity of PeradeniyaPeradeniyaSri Lanka
| | - Mohammad Mehedi Hasan
- Department of Pathophysiology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational MedicineFaculty of Medicine, Tartu UniversityTartuEstonia,Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal SciencesEstonian University of Life SciencesTartuEstonia,Maternal and Fetal Medicine Department, Institute of Women's HealthUniversity College LondonLondonUK
| | - Suranga. P. Kodithuwakku
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal SciencesEstonian University of Life SciencesTartuEstonia,Department of Animal Science, Faculty of AgricultureUniversity of PeradeniyaPeradeniyaSri Lanka
| | - Alireza Fazeli
- Department of Pathophysiology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational MedicineFaculty of Medicine, Tartu UniversityTartuEstonia,Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal SciencesEstonian University of Life SciencesTartuEstonia,Academic Unit of Reproductive and Developmental MedicineThe University of SheffieldSheffieldUK
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Russ JE, Haywood ME, Lane SL, Schoolcraft WB, Katz-Jaffe MG. Spatially resolved transcriptomic profiling of ovarian aging in mice. iScience 2022; 25:104819. [PMID: 35996587 PMCID: PMC9391589 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2022.104819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2022] [Revised: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Ovarian aging precedes that of any other mammalian organ and is the primary cause of female age-related infertility. The biological mechanisms responsible for ovarian aging remain unclear. Previous studies have been limited by their use of bulk RNA-sequencing, which masks the dynamic and heterogeneous nature of the ovary. In this study, we spatially resolved the transcriptomic landscape of ovaries from young and aged outbred mice. In total, we defined eight main ovarian cell populations, all of which were characterized by significant transcriptomic changes between young and aged samples. Further sub-cluster analysis revealed separate transcriptomes for distinct granulosa cell populations found in young versus aged mice, in addition to an oocyte sub-cluster population completely absent from aged mouse ovaries. This study provides a new perspective on mammalian ovarian aging using spatial transcriptomics to achieve deeper understanding of the localization and cell-population-specific mechanisms underlying age-related fertility decline. Spatial transcriptomic analysis of murine ovarian aging characterizes cell populations Distinct granulosa cell populations exist in aged mice compared to young These are associated with the disruption of inhibins, activins, and gap junction activity Oocyte transcriptomes captured in vivo and within follicles of varying maturity
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer E. Russ
- Colorado Center for Reproductive Medicine, Lone Tree, CO 80124, USA
| | - Mary E. Haywood
- Colorado Center for Reproductive Medicine, Lone Tree, CO 80124, USA
| | - Sydney L. Lane
- Colorado Center for Reproductive Medicine, Lone Tree, CO 80124, USA
| | | | - Mandy G. Katz-Jaffe
- Colorado Center for Reproductive Medicine, Lone Tree, CO 80124, USA
- Corresponding author
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Banerjee S, Mishra S, Xu W, Thompson WE, Chowdhury I. Neuregulin-1 signaling regulates cytokines and chemokines expression and secretion in granulosa cell. J Ovarian Res 2022; 15:86. [PMID: 35883098 PMCID: PMC9316729 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-022-01021-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Granulosa cells (GCs) are multilayered somatic cells within the follicle that provide physical support and microenvironment for the developing oocyte. In recent years, the role of Neuregulin-1 (NRG1), a member of the EGF-like factor family, has received considerable attention due to its neurodevelopmental and cardiac function. However, the exact physiological role of NRG1 in GC is mainly unknown. In order to confirm that NRG1 plays a regulatory role in rat GC functions, endogenous NRG1-knockdown studies were carried out in GCs using RNA interference methodology. RESULTS Knockdown of NRG1 in GCs resulted in the enhanced expression and secretion of the cytokines and chemokines. In addition, the phosphorylation of PI3K/Akt/ERK1/2 was significantly low in GCs under these experimental conditions. Moreover, in vitro experimental studies suggest that tumor necrosis factor-α (TNFα) treatment causes the physical destruction of GCs by activating caspase-3/7 activity. In contrast, exogenous NRG1 co-treatment of GCs delayed the onset of TNFα-induced apoptosis and inhibited the activation of caspase-3/7 activity. Furthermore, current experimental studies suggest that gonadotropins promote differential expression of NRG1 and ErbB3 receptors in GCs of the antral follicle. Interestingly, NRG1 and ErbB3 were intensely co-localized in the mural and cumulus GCs and cumulus-oocyte complex of pre-ovulatory follicles in the estrus stage. CONCLUSIONS The present studies suggest that gonadotropins-dependent NRG1-signaling in GCs may require the balance of the cytokines and chemokines expression and secretion, ultimately which may be supporting the follicular maturation and oocyte competence for ovulation and preventing follicular atresia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Saswati Banerjee
- Department of Physiology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Sameer Mishra
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Morehouse School of Medicine, 720 Westview Drive Southwest, Atlanta, GA, 30310, USA
| | - Wei Xu
- Department of Physiology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Winston E Thompson
- Department of Physiology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Indrajit Chowdhury
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Morehouse School of Medicine, 720 Westview Drive Southwest, Atlanta, GA, 30310, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Jenabi M, Khodarahmi P, Tafvizi F, Bostanabad SZ. Evaluation of expression CXCL8 chemokine and its relationship with oocyte maturation and embryo quality in the intracytoplasmic sperm injection method. Mol Biol Rep 2022; 49:8413-8427. [PMID: 35781602 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-022-07660-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The present study aimed to evaluate the expression of the chemokine CXCL8 in both mRNA and protein levels in the serum, follicular fluid (FF), and cumulus cells (CCs) and its relationship with oocyte maturation and embryo quality in women undergoing intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). METHODS A total of 87 women who underwent an ICSI cycle were evaluated in two groups, including the case group (female factor infertility) and the control group (fertile). In the serum, FF, and CCs, the protein and mRNA expression of CXCL8 were measured using immunosorbent assay and Real-Time PCR, respectively. The quality and quantity of the oocytes and embryos were assessed, and the relationship of protein and mRNA CXCL8 was evaluated with oocyte maturation and embryo quality. RESULTS The level of protein and mRNA of CXCL8 was significantly higher in the serum, FF, and CCs in the case group than in the control group. In the case group, the expression of mRNA and protein of CXCL8 had a significant increase in FF and CCs compared to serum; also, there was a CXCL8 protein significant increase in FF compared to CCs. The count of oocytes obtained, MII oocytes and the percentage of oocyte maturity significantly decreased in the case group. The expression of CXCL8 was inversely related to oocyte maturation, but no relationship was observed with embryo quality. CONCLUSIONS The elevated concentrations of CXCL8 in the serum and FF seem to be a predictor as a potential non-invasive biomarker for the oocyte maturation outcome in women with different causes of female factor infertility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Jenabi
- Department of Biology, Parand Branch, Islamic Azad University, Parand, Iran
| | - Parvin Khodarahmi
- Department of Biology, Parand Branch, Islamic Azad University, Parand, Iran.
| | - Farzaneh Tafvizi
- Department of Biology, Parand Branch, Islamic Azad University, Parand, Iran
| | | |
Collapse
|
45
|
Mast Cell Activation Syndrome in COVID-19 and Female Reproductive Function: Theoretical Background vs. Accumulating Clinical Evidence. J Immunol Res 2022; 2022:9534163. [PMID: 35785029 PMCID: PMC9242765 DOI: 10.1155/2022/9534163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Revised: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), a pandemic disease caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection, can affect almost all systems and organs of the human body, including those responsible for reproductive function in women. The multisystem inflammatory response in COVID-19 shows many analogies with mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS), and MCAS may be an important component in the course of COVID-19. Of note, the female sex hormones estradiol (E2) and progesterone (P4) significantly influence mast cell (MC) behavior. This review presents the importance of MCs and the mediators from their granules in the female reproductive system, including pregnancy, and discusses the mechanism of potential disorders related to MCAS. Then, the available data on COVID-19 in the context of hormonal disorders, the course of endometriosis, female fertility, and the course of pregnancy were compiled to verify intuitively predicted threats. Surprisingly, although COVID-19 hyperinflammation and post-COVID-19 illness may be rooted in MCAS, the available clinical data do not provide grounds for treating this mechanism as significantly increasing the risk of abnormal female reproductive function, including pregnancy. Further studies in the context of post COVID-19 condition (long COVID), where inflammation and a procoagulative state resemble many aspects of MCAS, are needed.
Collapse
|
46
|
Wang X, Chen ZJ. A decade of discovery: the stunning progress of premature ovarian insufficiency research in China. Biol Reprod 2022; 107:27-39. [PMID: 35639630 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2021] [Revised: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) is one of key aspects of ovarian infertility. Due to early cession of ovarian function, POI imposes great challenges on the physiological and psychological health of women, and becomes a common cause of female infertility. In the worldwide, there has been a special outpouring of concern for about four million reproductive-aged women suffering from POI in China. Driven by advances in new technologies and efforts invested by Chinses researchers, understanding about POI has constantly been progressing over the past decade. Here, we comprehensively summarize and review the landmark development and achievements from POI studies in China spanning 2011 to 2020, which aims to provide key insights from bench to bedside.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyan Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China.,Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong Provincial Clinical Medicine Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Zi-Jiang Chen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China.,Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong Provincial Clinical Medicine Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China.,Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
A review on inflammation and angiogenesis as key mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of bovine cystic ovarian disease. Theriogenology 2022; 186:70-85. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2022.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Revised: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
|
48
|
Abstract
Increasing evidence has demonstrated that obesity impairs female fertility and negatively affects human reproductive outcome following medically assisted reproduction (MAR) treatment. In the United States, 36.5% of women of reproductive age are obese. Obesity results not only in metabolic disorders including type II diabetes and cardiovascular disease, but might also be responsible for chronic inflammation and oxidative stress. Several studies have demonstrated that inflammation and reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the ovary modify steroidogenesis and might induce anovulation, as well as affecting oocyte meiotic maturation, leading to impaired oocyte quality and embryo developmental competence. Although the adverse effect of female obesity on human reproduction has been an object of debate in the past, there is growing evidence showing a link between female obesity and increased risk of infertility. However, further studies need to clarify some gaps in knowledge. We reviewed the recent evidence on the association between female obesity and infertility. In particular, we highlight the association between fat distribution and reproductive outcome, and how the inflammation and oxidative stress mechanisms might reduce ovarian function and oocyte quality. Finally, we evaluate the connection between female obesity and endometrial receptivity.
Collapse
|
49
|
Castiglione Morelli MA, Iuliano A, Schettini SCA, Ferri A, Colucci P, Viggiani L, Matera I, Ostuni A. Are the Follicular Fluid Characteristics of Recovered Coronavirus Disease 2019 Patients Different From Those of Vaccinated Women Approaching in vitro Fertilization? Front Physiol 2022; 13:840109. [PMID: 35283772 PMCID: PMC8905595 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.840109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this pilot study is to evaluate if SARS-CoV-2 infection or vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 infection induce observable metabolic effects in follicular fluid of women who are following in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatments. The possible impact of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) on fertility and IVF outcome is considered. We have selected for this study: six women vaccinated against SARS-CoV-2 infection, five recovered COVID-19 patients, and we used nine healthy women as the control group. At the time of oocytes retrieval from participants in the study, follicular fluids were collected and metabolomic analysis was performed by 1H NMR spectroscopy in combination with multivariate analysis to interpret the spectral data. The search for antibody positivity in the follicular fluid aspirates was also carried out, together with the western blotting analysis of some inflammatory proteins, interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα), and the free radical scavenger superoxide dismutase 2. Higher levels of Ala and Pro together with lower levels of lipids and trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) were found in follicular fluids (FFs) of vaccinated women while lower levels of many metabolites were detected in FFs of recovered COVID patients. Expression level of TNF-α was significantly lower both in recovered COVID-19 patients and vaccinated women in comparison to healthy controls.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Assunta Iuliano
- Center for Reproductive Medicine of "San Carlo" Hospital, Potenza, Italy
| | | | - Angela Ferri
- Center for Reproductive Medicine of "San Carlo" Hospital, Potenza, Italy
| | - Paola Colucci
- Center for Reproductive Medicine of "San Carlo" Hospital, Potenza, Italy
| | - Licia Viggiani
- Department of Sciences, University of Basilicata, Potenza, Italy
| | - Ilenia Matera
- Department of Sciences, University of Basilicata, Potenza, Italy
| | - Angela Ostuni
- Department of Sciences, University of Basilicata, Potenza, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Single-Cell Sequencing Reveals an Intrinsic Heterogeneity of the Preovulatory Follicular Microenvironment. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12020231. [PMID: 35204732 PMCID: PMC8961562 DOI: 10.3390/biom12020231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Revised: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The follicular microenvironment, including intra-follicular granulosa cells (GCs), is responsible for oocyte maturation and subsequent ovulation. However, the functions of GCs and cellular components of the follicular microenvironment in preovulatory follicles have not been extensively explored. Here, we surveyed the single-cell transcriptome of the follicular microenvironment around MII oocytes in six human preovulatory follicles in in vitro fertilization. There were six different cell types in the preovulatory follicles, including GCs and various immune cells. In GCs, we identified nine different functional clusters with different functional transcriptomic profiles, including specific clusters involved in inflammatory responses and adhesive function. Follicular macrophages are involved in immune responses, extracellular matrix remoulding and assist GCs in promoting the oocyte meiotic resumption. Interestingly, we observed that the specific terminal state subcluster of GCs with high levels of adhesive-related molecules should result in macrophage recruitment and residence, further contributing to an obvious heterogeneity of the immune cell proportion in preovulatory follicles from different patients. Our results provide a comprehensive understanding of the transcriptomic landscape of the preovulatory follicular microenvironment at the single-cell level. It provides valuable insights into understanding the regulation of the oocyte maturation and ovulation process, offering potential clues for the diagnosis and treatment of oocyte-maturation-related and ovulation-related diseases.
Collapse
|