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Córdova-Oriz I, Polonio AM, Cuadrado-Torroglosa I, Chico-Sordo L, Medrano M, García-Velasco JA, Varela E. Chromosome ends and the theory of marginotomy: implications for reproduction. Biogerontology 2024; 25:227-248. [PMID: 37943366 DOI: 10.1007/s10522-023-10071-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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023]
Abstract
Telomeres are the protective structures located at the ends of linear chromosomes. They were first described in the 1930s, but their biology remained unexplored until the early 70s, when Alexey M. Olovnikov, a theoretical biologist, suggested that telomeres cannot be fully copied during DNA replication. He proposed a theory that linked this phenomenon with the limit of cell proliferation capacity and the "duration of life" (theory of marginotomy), and suggested a potential of telomere lenghthening for the prevention of aging (anti-marginotomy). The impact of proliferative telomere shortening on life expectancy was later confirmed. In humans, telomere shortening is counteracted by telomerase, an enzyme that is undetectable in most adult somatic cells, but present in cancer cells and adult and embryonic stem and germ cells. Although telomere length dynamics are different in male and female gametes during gametogenesis, telomere lengths are reset at the blastocyst stage, setting the initial length of the species. The role of the telomere pathway in reproduction has been explored for years, mainly because of increased infertility resulting from delayed childbearing. Short telomere length in ovarian somatic cells is associated to decreased fertility and higher aneuploidy rates in embryos. Consequently, there is a growing interest in telomere lengthening strategies, aimed at improving fertility. It has also been observed that lifestyle factors can affect telomere length and improve fertility outcomes. In this review, we discuss the implications of telomere theory in fertility, especially in oocytes, spermatozoa, and embryos, as well as therapies to enhance reproductive success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Córdova-Oriz
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
| | - Alba M Polonio
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
| | - Isabel Cuadrado-Torroglosa
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
| | - Lucía Chico-Sordo
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
| | - Marta Medrano
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
| | - Juan A García-Velasco
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVIRMA Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Medical Specialties and Public Health, Edificio Departamental II, Rey Juan Carlos University, Av. de Atenas, s/n, 28922, Alcorcón, Madrid, Spain
| | - Elisa Varela
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain.
- Department of Medical Specialties and Public Health, Edificio Departamental II, Rey Juan Carlos University, Av. de Atenas, s/n, 28922, Alcorcón, Madrid, Spain.
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Yu TN, Cheng EH, Lin YP, Chen YC, Huang CC, Lee TH, Lee MS. Significantly shortened telomere length and altered androgen receptor level in cumulus cells from women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Taiwan J Obstet Gynecol 2023; 62:845-851. [PMID: 38008503 DOI: 10.1016/j.tjog.2023.07.035] [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] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/28/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to investigate the correlation between hormone receptor levels and telomere length (TL) in infertile women with and without polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). MATERIALS AND METHODS This prospective cohort study recruited a total of 431 cumulus oocyte complex (COC) from 88 infertile women between July 2012 and June 2014. The participants were divided into three groups: young age (<38 years, n = 42 and 227 COC), advanced age (≥38 years, n = 33 and 107 COC) and PCOS patients (n = 13 and 97 COC). Cumulus cells were collected from individual follicle during oocyte pick-up, and the mRNA levels of hormone receptors and TL were measured using real-time PCR. RESULTS The cumulus cells of PCOS patients demonstrated lower mRNA levels of LH receptor (75.57 ± 138.10 vs. 171.07 ± 317.68; p < 0.01) and androgen receptor (1.13 ± 1.52 vs. 4.08 ± 9.57; p < 0.01), as well as a shorter TL (2.39 ± 2.58 vs. 3.96 ± 4.72; p < 0.01) compared to those of the young age group. In the young age group, only androgen receptor mRNA level showed a significant association with TL (rho = 0.148, p = 0.026), while FSH receptor mRNA level was the only factor associated with TL (rho = 0.247, p = 0.015) in PCOS patients. For advanced-aged patients, no significant relationship was observed between hormone receptor mRNA levels and TL. Alternative splicing of androgen receptors was identified in some PCOS patients but not in young age controls. CONCLUSION The findings suggest that the androgen receptor level and function may be altered in the cumulus cells of PCOS patients, leading to a shorter TL in cumulus cells in PCOS patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tzu-Ning Yu
- Institute of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan; Division of Infertility Clinic, Lee Women's Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - En-Hui Cheng
- Division of Infertility Clinic, Lee Women's Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Ping Lin
- Division of Infertility Clinic, Lee Women's Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Chun Chen
- Division of Infertility Clinic, Lee Women's Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Chun-Chia Huang
- Division of Infertility Clinic, Lee Women's Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Tsung-Hsien Lee
- Institute of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan; Division of Infertility Clinic, Lee Women's Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Maw-Sheng Lee
- Institute of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan; Division of Infertility Clinic, Lee Women's Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan.
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3
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Péntek S, Várnagy Á, Farkas B, Mauchart P, Gödöny K, Varjas T, Kőszegi T, Kaltenecker P, Jakabfi-Csepregi R, Kovács K, Bódis J, Sulyok E. Telomere Length and Telomerase Activity of Granulosa Cells and Follicular Fluid in Women Undergoing In Vitro Fertilization. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:antiox12020419. [PMID: 36829978 PMCID: PMC9952214 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12020419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2023] [Revised: 02/05/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to evaluate the interrelationship between telomere length, telomerase activity and oxidative DNA damage in patients undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF). This single-center, observational clinical study comprised 102 unselected, consecutive patients with various infertility diagnoses. Granulosa cells (GCs) and follicular fluid (FF) were analyzed simultaneously for telomere functions and for the marker of oxidative DNA damage, 8-hydroxy-2-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG). An Absolute Human Telomere Lengths Quantification qPCR Assay kit and Telomerase Activity Quantification qPCR Assay kit (Nucleotestbio, Budapest, Hungary), as well as an 8-OHdG ELISA kit (Abbexa Ltd., Cambridge, United Kingdom) were used for analyses. Similar telomere lengths were found in GCs and FF, however telomerase activity was markedly depressed, while 8-OHdG levels were markedly elevated in FF compared with those in GCs (p < 0.01). Telomere lengths were independent of telomerase activity both in GCs and FF. However, GC 8-OHdG was inversely related to telomerase activity in GCs and FF (p < 0.05). Importantly, 8-OHdG levels both in GCs and FF had significant negative impact on the number of the retrieved and MII oocytes (p < 0.01), whereas FF 8-OHdG was negatively related further to the number of fertilized oocytes and blastocysts (p < 0.01). In conclusion, we could not confirm the direct association of telomere function and reproductive potential. However, oxidative DNA damage, as mainly reflected by 8-OHdG, adversely affected early markers of IVF outcome and clinical pregnancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sándor Péntek
- National Laboratory on Human Reproduction, University of Pécs, 7622 Pécs, Hungary
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Pecs Medical School, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Ákos Várnagy
- National Laboratory on Human Reproduction, University of Pécs, 7622 Pécs, Hungary
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Pecs Medical School, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
- MTA-PTE Human Reproduction Scientific Research Group, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Bálint Farkas
- National Laboratory on Human Reproduction, University of Pécs, 7622 Pécs, Hungary
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Pecs Medical School, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
- MTA-PTE Human Reproduction Scientific Research Group, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +36-72-536-360 (ext. 0827); Fax: +36-72-536-3
| | - Péter Mauchart
- National Laboratory on Human Reproduction, University of Pécs, 7622 Pécs, Hungary
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Pecs Medical School, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
- MTA-PTE Human Reproduction Scientific Research Group, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Krisztina Gödöny
- National Laboratory on Human Reproduction, University of Pécs, 7622 Pécs, Hungary
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Pecs Medical School, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
- MTA-PTE Human Reproduction Scientific Research Group, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Tímea Varjas
- National Laboratory on Human Reproduction, University of Pécs, 7622 Pécs, Hungary
- Department of Public Health Medicine, Medical School, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Tamás Kőszegi
- National Laboratory on Human Reproduction, University of Pécs, 7622 Pécs, Hungary
- Szentágothai Research Centre, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Péter Kaltenecker
- National Laboratory on Human Reproduction, University of Pécs, 7622 Pécs, Hungary
- Szentágothai Research Centre, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Rita Jakabfi-Csepregi
- National Laboratory on Human Reproduction, University of Pécs, 7622 Pécs, Hungary
- Szentágothai Research Centre, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Kálmán Kovács
- National Laboratory on Human Reproduction, University of Pécs, 7622 Pécs, Hungary
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Pecs Medical School, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
- MTA-PTE Human Reproduction Scientific Research Group, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
| | - József Bódis
- National Laboratory on Human Reproduction, University of Pécs, 7622 Pécs, Hungary
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Pecs Medical School, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
- MTA-PTE Human Reproduction Scientific Research Group, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Endre Sulyok
- National Laboratory on Human Reproduction, University of Pécs, 7622 Pécs, Hungary
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pécs, 7621 Pécs, Hungary
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Zhu Z, Xu W, Liu L. Ovarian aging: mechanisms and intervention strategies. MEDICAL REVIEW (BERLIN, GERMANY) 2022; 2:590-610. [PMID: 37724254 PMCID: PMC10471094 DOI: 10.1515/mr-2022-0031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 09/20/2023]
Abstract
Ovarian reserve is essential for fertility and influences healthy aging in women. Advanced maternal age correlates with the progressive loss of both the quantity and quality of oocytes. The molecular mechanisms and various contributing factors underlying ovarian aging have been uncovered. In this review, we highlight some of critical factors that impact oocyte quantity and quality during aging. Germ cell and follicle reserve at birth determines reproductive lifespan and timing the menopause in female mammals. Accelerated diminishing ovarian reserve leads to premature ovarian aging or insufficiency. Poor oocyte quality with increasing age could result from chromosomal cohesion deterioration and misaligned chromosomes, telomere shortening, DNA damage and associated genetic mutations, oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction and epigenetic alteration. We also discuss the intervention strategies to delay ovarian aging. Both the efficacy of senotherapies by antioxidants against reproductive aging and mitochondrial therapy are discussed. Functional oocytes and ovarioids could be rejuvenated from pluripotent stem cells or somatic cells. We propose directions for future interventions. As couples increasingly begin delaying parenthood in life worldwide, understanding the molecular mechanisms during female reproductive aging and potential intervention strategies could benefit women in making earlier choices about their reproductive health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengmao Zhu
- Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin, China
- Department of Genetics and Cell Biology, College of Life Science, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Wanxue Xu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Lin Liu
- Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin, China
- Department of Genetics and Cell Biology, College of Life Science, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Union Medical Center, Institute of Translational Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
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5
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Moazamian A, Gharagozloo P, Aitken RJ, Drevet JR. OXIDATIVE STRESS AND REPRODUCTIVE FUNCTION: Sperm telomeres, oxidative stress, and infertility. Reproduction 2022; 164:F125-F133. [PMID: 35938805 DOI: 10.1530/rep-22-0189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
In brief Oxidative stress is recognized as an underlying driving factor of both telomere dysfunction and human subfertility/infertility. This review briefly reassesses telomere integrity as a fertility biomarker before proposing a novel, mechanistic rationale for the role of oxidative stress in the seemingly paradoxical lengthening of sperm telomeres with aging. Abstract The maintenance of redox balance in the male reproductive tract is critical to sperm health and function. Physiological levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) promote sperm capacitation, while excess ROS exposure, or depleted antioxidant defenses, yields a state of oxidative stress which disrupts their fertilizing capacity and DNA structural integrity. The guanine moiety is the most readily oxidized of the four DNA bases and gets converted to the mutagenic lesion 8-hydroxy-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG). Numerous studies have also confirmed oxidative stress as a driving factor behind accelerated telomere shortening and dysfunction. Although a clear consensus has not been reached, clinical studies also appear to associate telomere integrity with fertility outcomes in the assisted reproductive technology setting. Intriguingly, while sperm cellular and molecular characteristics make them more susceptible to oxidative insult than any other cell type, they are also the only cell type in which telomere lengthening accompanies aging. This article focuses on the oxidative stress response pathways to propose a mechanism for the explanation of this apparent paradox.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aron Moazamian
- CellOxess LLC, Ewing, New Jersey, USA.,Université Clermont Auvergne, GReD Institute, CNRS-INSERM, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | | | - Robert J Aitken
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Joël R Drevet
- Université Clermont Auvergne, GReD Institute, CNRS-INSERM, Clermont-Ferrand, France
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6
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Kayacık Günday Ö, Özdemir Erdoğan M, Pehlivan A, Yılmazer M. The effect of metformin treatment on leukocyte telomere length in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome: a prospective case-control study. J Assist Reprod Genet 2022; 39:2153-2161. [PMID: 35861921 PMCID: PMC9474966 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-022-02577-y] [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: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The study aimed to investigate the effect of metformin treatment on leukocyte telomere length (LTL) and the relationship of LTL with C-reactive protein (CRP), homocysteine, albumin, complete blood count, and HOMA-IR values in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). MATERIAL AND METHOD A prospective case-control study consisting of 30 women with PCOS and 30 healthy women without PCOS was performed. The relationship between clinical and laboratory parameters and LTL was analyzed. PCOS patients were treated with metformin (850 mg/day) for three months. Before treatment (BT) and after treatment (AT), each patient's LTL was evaluated and compared with the control group. RESULTS In the comparison between PCOS and control groups, the difference was significant for LTL, age, body mass index (BMI), and CRP (p = 0.002; p < 0.001; p = 0.001; p = 0.01, respectively). In PCOS patients, the difference between BT and AT, LTL was not statistically significant (BT: 6.06 ± 2.12; AT: 6.30 ± 1.93; p = 0.623; 95% C.I: - 1.22-0.74); however, the difference for weight was significant (BT: 83.78 ± 15.31; AT: 80.62 ± 15.40; p = 0.02; 95% CI: 1.34-4.99). The logistic regression model established by BMI (group 1: 21-24, group 2: 24-29, group 3: 29-34, group 4: > 34), age, and RDW, which predicted the PCOS group by affecting the LTL level, was statistically significant (p < 0.001/PPV = 96.3%; NPV = 88.5%). Each unit reduction in telomere length increased women's probability of PCOS by 0.4 times (p = 0.013; OR = 0.419, 95% CI: 0.211-0.835). CONCLUSION Although statistically insignificant, LTL increased after metformin use in PCOS patients, and the mean weight loss reduction was statistically significant. Telomere shortening increased the likelihood of PCOS 0.4 times.
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Affiliation(s)
- Özlem Kayacık Günday
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Afyonkarahisar University of Health Sciences, Afyonkarahisar, Turkey
| | - Müjgan Özdemir Erdoğan
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Afyonkarahisar University of Health Sciences, Afyonkarahisar, Turkey
| | - Ayşen Pehlivan
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Afyonkarahisar University of Health Sciences, Afyonkarahisar, Turkey
| | - Mehmet Yılmazer
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Afyonkarahisar University of Health Sciences, Afyonkarahisar, Turkey
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Tajada M, Dieste-Pérez P, Sanz-Arenal A, Pérez-Roncero G, López-Baena MT, Pérez-López FR. Leukocyte telomere length in women with and without polycystic ovary syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Gynecol Endocrinol 2022; 38:391-397. [PMID: 35254177 DOI: 10.1080/09513590.2022.2047922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Abstract
AIM To study the telomere length and the telomerase activity in women with and without polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). METHODS Relevant studies were searched from PubMed, Embase, and LILACS online databases and manual screening. The mean differences (MDs) or standardized MDs (SMDs) with their 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. The methodological quality of included studies was evaluated with the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS), and heterogeneity with the I2 and Tau2 statistics. RESULTS Six studies including 2109 non-pregnant women with (n = 1155) or without (n = 954) PCOS assessed leukocyte telomere length. There was a non-significant leukocyte telomere length difference (SMD = 0.25, 95% CI: -0.01, 0.51, p = .06, I2 = 81%, Tau2 = 0.08) comparing PCOS patients with the control group. Studied PCOS women were younger (MD = -1.39, 95% CI: -2.47, -0.31 years, I2 = 83%), and had higher body mass index (BMI; MD = 3.66, 95% CI: 2.11, 5.20 kg/m2, I2 = 94%). There were significantly higher testosterone (SMD = 0.88, 95% CI: 0.65, 1.10) and luteinizing hormone levels (SMD = 0.60, 95% CI: 0.12, 1.08) in women with PCOS as compared to controls. There was a low risk of bias and there were not sufficient studies to meta-analyze other cell types. CONCLUSIONS Leukocyte telomere length did not differ between women with and without PCOS. Further studies with large sample sizes and including other outcomes are warranted to further substantiate the reported evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mauricio Tajada
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
- Aragón Health Research Institute, Zaragoza, Spain
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Miguel Servet University Hospital, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Peña Dieste-Pérez
- Aragón Health Research Institute, Zaragoza, Spain
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Miguel Servet University Hospital, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Ana Sanz-Arenal
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Miguel Servet University Hospital, Zaragoza, Spain
| | | | | | - Faustino R Pérez-López
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
- Aragón Health Research Institute, Zaragoza, Spain
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8
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Telomere dysfunction in ageing and age-related diseases. Nat Cell Biol 2022; 24:135-147. [DOI: 10.1038/s41556-022-00842-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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9
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Ovarian Telomerase and Female Fertility. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9070842. [PMID: 34356906 PMCID: PMC8301802 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9070842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2021] [Revised: 07/08/2021] [Accepted: 07/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Women's fertility is characterized both quantitatively and qualitatively mainly by the pool of ovarian follicles. Monthly, gonadotropins cause an intense multiplication of granulosa cells surrounding the oocyte. This step of follicular development requires a high proliferation ability for these cells. Telomere length plays a crucial role in the mitotic index of human cells. Hence, disrupting telomere homeostasis could directly affect women's fertility. Strongly expressed in ovaries, telomerase is the most effective factor to limit telomeric attrition and preserve ovarian reserve. Considering these facts, two situations of infertility could be correlated with the length of telomeres and ovarian telomerase activity: PolyCystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), which is associated with a high density of small antral follicles, and Premature Ovarian Failure (POF), which is associated with a premature decrease in ovarian reserve. Several authors have studied this topic, expecting to find long telomeres and strong telomerase activity in PCOS and short telomeres and low telomerase activity in POF patients. Although the results of these studies are contradictory, telomere length and the ovarian telomerase impact in women's fertility disorders appear obvious. In this context, our research perspectives aimed to explore the stimulation of ovarian telomerase to limit the decrease in the follicular pool while avoiding an increase in cancer risk.
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10
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Xu Y, Pan CS, Li Q, Zhang HL, Yan L, Anwaier G, Wang XY, Yan LL, Fan JY, Li D, Han JY. The Ameliorating Effects of Bushen Huatan Granules and Kunling Wan on Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Induced by Dehydroepiandrosterone in Rats. Front Physiol 2021; 12:525145. [PMID: 33762961 PMCID: PMC7982847 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.525145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2020] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim To investigate the effects of Bushen Huatan Granules (BHG) and Kunling Wan (KW), the two Chinese medicines, on the regulation of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and their underlying mechanisms. Materials and Methods PCOS rat model was established by subcutaneous injection of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) (6 mg/100 g/day) for 20 days, followed by treatment with BHG (0.75, 1.49, and 2.99 g/kg) or KW (0.46, 0.91, and 1.82 g/kg) by gavage for 4 weeks. Estrous cycle was detected by vaginal smears. Follicles development was assessed by histology. Levels of testosterone and insulin in serum were tested by ELISA. Apoptosis of Granulosa cells (GCs) was evaluated by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP-biotin nick end-labeling staining. Pathways associated with apoptosis were detected with western blot. Pregnancy outcome was also assessed. GCs were pre-treated with 10–5 M testosterone in vitro for 24 h, then incubated with serum from rats receiving BHG (1.49 g/kg) or KW (1.82 g/kg). The parameters concerning apoptosis, mitochondrial function and endoplasmic reticulum stress were assessed. Results Post-treatment with either BHG or KW ameliorated DHEA-induced irregular estrous cycles, follicles development abnormalities, increase of testosterone and insulin in serum, and the apoptosis of GCs. Post-treatment with BHG decreased the expression of cleaved caspase-9/caspase 9, release of cytochrome C from mitochondria, and mitochondria reactive oxygen species production, increased activities of complex I, II, IV of ovarian tissue. Post-treatment with KW decreased the levels of caspase-12, GRP78, C/EBP homologous protein, phosphorylation of IRE-I, x-box-binding protein 1s, as well as phosphorylation of proline-rich receptor-like protein kinase, phosphorylation of eukaryotic translation initiation factor 2α and ATF4 of ovarian tissue and GCs. Both BHG and KW ameliorated pregnancy outcome. Conclusion This study demonstrated BHG or KW as a potential strategy for treatment of PCOS induced by DHEA, and suggested that the beneficial role of the two medicines were mediated by different pathway with the effect of BHG being correlated with the regulation of mitochondria, while the effect of KW being attributable to protection of endoplasmic reticulum stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Xu
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.,Department of Integration of Chinese and Western Medicine, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China.,Tasly Microcirculation Research Center, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Chun-Shui Pan
- Tasly Microcirculation Research Center, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Stasis and Phlegm, State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China.,State Key Laboratory of Core Technology in Innovative Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Quan Li
- Tasly Microcirculation Research Center, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Stasis and Phlegm, State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China.,State Key Laboratory of Core Technology in Innovative Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Hao-Lin Zhang
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.,Department of Integration of Chinese and Western Medicine, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Li Yan
- Tasly Microcirculation Research Center, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Stasis and Phlegm, State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China.,State Key Laboratory of Core Technology in Innovative Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Gulinigaer Anwaier
- Tasly Microcirculation Research Center, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China.,Department of Integration of Chinese and Western Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiao-Yi Wang
- Tasly Microcirculation Research Center, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China.,Department of Integration of Chinese and Western Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Lu-Lu Yan
- Tasly Microcirculation Research Center, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Stasis and Phlegm, State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China.,State Key Laboratory of Core Technology in Innovative Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Jing-Yu Fan
- Tasly Microcirculation Research Center, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Stasis and Phlegm, State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China.,State Key Laboratory of Core Technology in Innovative Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Dong Li
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.,Department of Integration of Chinese and Western Medicine, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Jing-Yan Han
- Department of Integration of Chinese and Western Medicine, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China.,Tasly Microcirculation Research Center, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Stasis and Phlegm, State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China.,State Key Laboratory of Core Technology in Innovative Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China.,Department of Integration of Chinese and Western Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China.,Academy of Integration of Chinese and Western Medicine, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
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11
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Velazquez ME, Millan AL, Rojo M, Abruzzese GA, Cocucci SE, Iglesias Molli AE, Frechtel GD, Motta AB, Cerrone GE. Telomere Length Differently Associated to Obesity and Hyperandrogenism in Women With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:604215. [PMID: 34054718 PMCID: PMC8162376 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.604215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2020] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) often present metabolic disorders and hyperandrogenism (HA), facts that may influence the telomere length (TL). AIMS To compare the absolute TL (aTL) between women with PCOS and control women, and their association with the presence of obesity and HA parameters. MATERIALS AND METHODS The PCOS group included 170 unrelated women outpatients and the control group, 64 unrelated donor women. Anthropometric, biochemical-clinical parameters and androgen profile were determined. The PCOS patients were divided accordingly to the presence of obesity and androgenic condition. The aTL was determined from peripheral blood leukocytes by Real Time quantitative PCR. RESULTS Women with PCOS exhibited a significantly longer aTL than controls after age adjustment (p=0.001). A stepwise multivariate linear regression in PCOS women, showed that WC (waist circumference) contributed negatively (b=-0.17) while testosterone levels contributed positively (b=7.24) to aTL. The non-Obese PCOS (noOB-PCOS) presented the longest aTL when compared to controls (p=0.001). Meanwhile, the aTL was significantly higher in the hyperandrogenic PCOS phenotype (HA-PCOS) than in the controls (p=0.001) and non hyperandrogenic PCOS phenotype (NHA-PCOS) (p=0.04). Interestingly, when considering obesity and HA parameters in PCOS, HA exerts the major effect over the aTL as non-obese HA exhibited the lengthiest aTL (23.9 ± 13.13 Kbp). Conversely, the obese NHA patients showed the shortest aTL (16.5 ± 10.59 Kbp). CONCLUSIONS Whilst a shorter aTL could be related to the presence of obesity, a longer aTL would be associated with HA phenotype. These findings suggest a balance between the effect produced by the different metabolic and hormonal components, in PCOS women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariela Edith Velazquez
- Laboratorio de Fisio-Patología Ovárica, Centro de Estudios Farmacológicos y Botánicos, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Andrea L. Millan
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Departamento de Microbiología, Inmunología, Biotecnología y Genética, Facultad de Farmaciay Bioquímica, Cátedra de Genética, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Instituto de Inmunología, Genética y Metabolismo (INIGEM), Laboratorio de Diabetes y Metabolismo, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Mailén Rojo
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Departamento de Microbiología, Inmunología, Biotecnología y Genética, Facultad de Farmaciay Bioquímica, Cátedra de Genética, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Instituto de Inmunología, Genética y Metabolismo (INIGEM), Laboratorio de Diabetes y Metabolismo, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Giselle Adriana Abruzzese
- Laboratorio de Fisio-Patología Ovárica, Centro de Estudios Farmacológicos y Botánicos, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Silvina Ema Cocucci
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Departamento de Microbiología, Inmunología, Biotecnología y Genética, Facultad de Farmaciay Bioquímica, Cátedra de Genética, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Andrea Elena Iglesias Molli
- CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Instituto de Inmunología, Genética y Metabolismo (INIGEM), Laboratorio de Diabetes y Metabolismo, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Gustavo Daniel Frechtel
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Departamento de Microbiología, Inmunología, Biotecnología y Genética, Facultad de Farmaciay Bioquímica, Cátedra de Genética, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Instituto de Inmunología, Genética y Metabolismo (INIGEM), Laboratorio de Diabetes y Metabolismo, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Alicia Beatriz Motta
- Laboratorio de Fisio-Patología Ovárica, Centro de Estudios Farmacológicos y Botánicos, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Gloria Edith Cerrone
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Departamento de Microbiología, Inmunología, Biotecnología y Genética, Facultad de Farmaciay Bioquímica, Cátedra de Genética, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Instituto de Inmunología, Genética y Metabolismo (INIGEM), Laboratorio de Diabetes y Metabolismo, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- *Correspondence: Gloria Edith Cerrone,
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12
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Uysal F, Kosebent EG, Toru HS, Ozturk S. Decreased expression of TERT and telomeric proteins as human ovaries age may cause telomere shortening. J Assist Reprod Genet 2020; 38:429-441. [PMID: 32856217 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-020-01932-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2020] [Accepted: 08/18/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Telomeres are repetitive sequences localized at the ends of eukaryotic chromosomes comprising noncoding DNA and telomere-binding proteins. TRF1 and TRF2 both bind to the double-stranded telomeric DNA to regulate its length throughout the lifespan of eukaryotic cells. POT1 interacts with single-stranded telomeric DNA and contributes to protecting genomic integrity. Previous studies have shown that telomeres gradually shorten as ovaries age, coinciding with fertility loss. However, the molecular background of telomere shortening with ovarian aging is not fully understood. METHODS The present study aimed to determine the spatial and temporal expression levels of the TERT, TRF1, TRF2, and POT1 proteins in different groups of human ovaries: fetal (n = 11), early postnatal (n = 10), premenopausal (n = 12), and postmenopausal (n = 14). Also, the relative telomere signal intensity of each group was measured using the Q-FISH method. RESULTS We found that the telomere signal intensities decreased evenly and significantly from fetal to postmenopausal groups (P < 0.05). The TERT, TRF1, TRF2, and POT1 proteins were localized in the cytoplasmic and nuclear regions of the oocytes, granulosa and stromal cells. Furthermore, the expression levels of these proteins reduced significantly from fetal to postmenopausal groups (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION These findings suggest that decreased TERT and telomere-binding protein expression may underlie the telomere shortening of ovaries with age, which may be associated with female fertility loss. Further investigations are required to elicit the molecular mechanisms regulating the gradual decrease in the expression of TERT and telomere-binding proteins in human oocytes and granulosa cells during ovarian aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatma Uysal
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Akdeniz University School of Medicine, Campus, 07070, Antalya, Turkey.,Department of Histology and Embryology, Ankara University School of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Esra Gozde Kosebent
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Akdeniz University School of Medicine, Campus, 07070, Antalya, Turkey
| | - Havva Serap Toru
- Department of Pathology, Akdeniz University School of Medicine, Antalya, Turkey
| | - Saffet Ozturk
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Akdeniz University School of Medicine, Campus, 07070, Antalya, Turkey.
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13
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Rocca MS, Foresta C, Ferlin A. Telomere length: lights and shadows on their role in human reproduction. Biol Reprod 2020; 100:305-317. [PMID: 30277496 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioy208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2018] [Revised: 09/19/2018] [Accepted: 09/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Telomeres are repeated DNA sequences whose main function is to preserve genome stability, protecting chromosomes ends from shortening caused by progressive loss during each cell replication or DNA damage. Telomere length regulation is normally achieved by telomerase enzyme, whose activity is progressively shut off during embryonic differentiation in somatic tissues, whereas it is maintained in germ cells, activated lymphocytes, and certain types of stem cell populations. The maintenance of telomerase activity for a longer time is necessary for germ cells to delay telomere erosion, thus avoiding chromosome segregation defects that could contribute to aneuploid or unbalanced gametes. Over the last few years, telomere biology has become an important topic in the field of human reproduction, encouraging several studies to focus on the relation between telomere length and spermatogenesis and male fertility, embryo development and quality during assisted reproductive treatment, and female pathologies as polycystic ovary, premature ovarian insufficiency, and endometriosis. This review analyzes whether telomere length in germ cells is related to reproduction fitness, whether telomere length is related to pathologies associated with male and female fertility, and whether measurement of telomere length could represent a biomarker of germ cell and embryo quality. Telomere length could be considered a molecular marker of spermatogenesis and sperm quality and is somewhat related to male fertility potential. Fewer evidence, although promising, is available for oocytes, female (in)fertility, and embryo quality. The increasing evidence for a role of telomeres and telomere length in human reproduction, indeed, has expanded the historical view of considering them just a marker of aging. Telomere length might have in the future a prognostic potential in couple infertility, especially useful to select best germ cells with the greatest potential of fertilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Santa Rocca
- Department of Medicine, Unit of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Carlo Foresta
- Department of Medicine, Unit of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Alberto Ferlin
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, Unit of Endocrinology, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
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14
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Telomere Length and Telomerase Activity in Immature Oocytes and Cumulus Cells of Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. Reprod Sci 2020; 27:1293-1303. [PMID: 32046456 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-019-00120-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2019] [Accepted: 11/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Metaphase II oocytes (MII) from polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) frequently have impaired oocyte competence. Since telomere maintenance is important for folliculogenesis, oocyte maturation, and early embryonic development, we sought to verify the implications of PCOS on telomere length and telomerase activity in immature oocytes and cumulus cells. 43 PCOS and 67 control women were included, and anthropometric, biochemical, and hormonal characteristics were evaluated. The telomere length in germinal vesicle stage (GV) and in metaphase I (MI) oocytes, as well as in the cumulus cells of immature (CCI) and mature oocytes (CCM), and in leukocytes was measured by qPCR. The telomerase activity in reproductive cells was evaluated by the TRAPeze® XL Kit. The body mass index (p = 0.001), LH (p = 0.015), estradiol (p = 0.004), insulin (p = 0.002), testosterone (p < 0.0001), androstenedione (p = 0.001), free androgen index (p < 0.0001), and c-reactive protein (p = 0.003) were greater, while the FSH (p = 0.0002) was lower in the PCOS group. The telomere length in the CCI (p = 0.649) and CCM (p = 0.378) did not differ between the PCOS and the control groups. On the other hand, telomerase activity in the CCI (p = 0.003) and CCM (p = 0.022) was higher in the PCOS group. In the leukocyte's cells, the telomere length was reduced in the PCOS group (p = 0.025). In the GV and MI oocytes, no differences were observed in telomere length and telomerase activity between the groups. We showed that telomere length is not altered in reproductive cells from PCOS. However, higher telomerase activity in the CCI and CCM may be required for telomere length maintenance.
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15
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Viganò P, Makieva S. Lifting the endometrioma veil on granulosa cells. Fertil Steril 2019; 112:813-814. [PMID: 31731940 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2019.07.1344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2019] [Accepted: 07/29/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Paola Viganò
- Reproductive Sciences Laboratory, Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Sofia Makieva
- Reproductive Sciences Laboratory, Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
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16
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Kresovich JK, Parks CG, Sandler DP, Taylor JA. Reproductive history and blood cell telomere length. Aging (Albany NY) 2019; 10:2383-2393. [PMID: 30243019 PMCID: PMC6188490 DOI: 10.18632/aging.101558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2018] [Accepted: 09/10/2018] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Telomeres are repetitive nucleotide sequences that protect against chromosomal shortening. They are replenished by telomerase, an enzyme that may be activated by estrogen. Women have longer telomeres than men; this difference might be due to estrogen exposure. We hypothesized that reproductive histories reflecting greater estrogen exposure will be associated with longer blood cell telomeres. Among women in the Sister Study (n= 1,048), we examined telomere length in relation to self-reported data on reproductive history. The difference between age at menarche and last menstrual period was used to approximate the reproductive period. Relative telomere length (rTL) was measured using qPCR. After adjustment, rTL decreased with longer reproductive period (β= -0.019, 95% CI: -0.04, -0.00, p= 0.03). Premenopausal women had shorter rTL than postmenopausal women (β= -0.051, 95% CI: -0.12, 0.01, p= 0.13). Longer breastfeeding duration was associated with longer rTL (β= 0.027, 95% CI: 0.01, 0.05, p=0.01); increasing parity was associated with shorter rTL (β = -0.016, 95% CI: -0.03, 0.00, p=0.07). Duration of exogenous hormone use was not associated with rTL. Reproductive histories reflecting greater endogenous estrogen exposure were associated with shorter rTL. Our findings suggest that longer telomeres in women are unlikely to be explained by greater estrogen exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob K Kresovich
- Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, NIH, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Christine G Parks
- Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, NIH, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Dale P Sandler
- Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, NIH, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Jack A Taylor
- Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, NIH, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA.,Epigenetic and Stem Cell Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, NIH, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
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17
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Vasilopoulos E, Fragkiadaki P, Kalliora C, Fragou D, Docea AO, Vakonaki E, Tsoukalas D, Calina D, Buga AM, Georgiadis G, Mamoulakis C, Makrigiannakis A, Spandidos DA, Tsatsakis A. The association of female and male infertility with telomere length (Review). Int J Mol Med 2019; 44:375-389. [PMID: 31173155 PMCID: PMC6605974 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2019.4225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2019] [Accepted: 05/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Telomere length (TL) has long been associated with aging, as telomeres serve as protective caps of chromosomes, and are thus deeply involved in the preservation of genome integrity and are vital to cellular functions. Traditionally, a strong link connects aging and infertility in both sexes, with an earlier onset in females. Over the past decade, telomeres have attracted increasing attention due to the role they play in fertility. In this review, we investigated the potential positive or negative association between relative TL and different factors of female and male infertility. A systematic search of the PubMed database was conducted. Out of the 206 studies identified, 45 were reviewed as they fulfilled the criteria of validity and relevance. Following an analysis and a comparison of the study outcomes, several clear trends were observed. The majority of female infertility factors were associated with a shorter TL, with the exception of endometriosis, premature ovarian failure and clear cell carcinoma that were associated with a longer TL and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which revealed conflicting results among several studies, leading to ambiguous conclusions. Male infertility factors were associated with a shorter TL. Although this review can provide an outline of general trends in the association of TL with infertility factors, further epidemiological and original research studies are required to focus on investigating the basis of these varying lengths of telomeres.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Persefoni Fragkiadaki
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Medical School, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece
| | - Charikleia Kalliora
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Domniki Fragou
- Laboratory of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Anca Oana Docea
- Department of Toxicology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - Elena Vakonaki
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Medical School, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece
| | - Dimitris Tsoukalas
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Medical School, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece
| | - Daniela Calina
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - Ana Maria Buga
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - George Georgiadis
- Department of Urology, University General Hospital of Heraklion, Medical School, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece
| | - Charalampos Mamoulakis
- Department of Urology, University General Hospital of Heraklion, Medical School, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece
| | - Antonios Makrigiannakis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University General Hospital of Heraklion, Medical School, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece
| | - Demetrios A Spandidos
- Laboratory of Clinical Virology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece
| | - Aristidis Tsatsakis
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Medical School, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece
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18
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Jiao J, Shi B, Wang T, Fang Y, Cao T, Zhou Y, Wang X, Li D. Characterization of long non-coding RNA and messenger RNA profiles in follicular fluid from mature and immature ovarian follicles of healthy women and women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Hum Reprod 2019; 33:1735-1748. [PMID: 30052945 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dey255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2018] [Accepted: 07/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Do long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) and messenger RNA (mRNA) profiles in follicular fluid from mature and immature ovarian follicles differ between healthy women and women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)? SUMMARY ANSWER lncRNA and mRNA profiles in follicular fluid from both mature and immature ovarian follicles differed significantly between healthy women and PCOS patients. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Unlike microRNAs, which have been extensively studied, lncRNAs present in follicular fluid have never been sequenced and the biological associations of lncRNAs in healthy follicles and follicles in women who develop PCOS remain largely unknown. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION A total of 18 subjects (8 controls and 10 PCOS patients) were recruited to participate in this study. Recruitment took place from May 2016 to September 2016. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS The follicular fluid donors underwent their first round of in-vitro fertilization treatment. Follicle size was determined based on the average follicular diameter, and follicular fluid samples were collected from mature follicles (17-22 mm) and matched-immature follicles (8-13 mm). RNA sequencing was performed on follicular fluids from mature and immature follicles of healthy women and PCOS patients. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE A total of 1583 novel lncRNAs were identified in 36 human follicular fluid samples and some were expressed differently in healthy and PCOS women. lncRNAs associated with the metabolic process were highly enriched in the follicular fluid of mature follicles from the PCOS group versus the healthy group. In the PCOS group, nervous system process lncRNAs were highly enriched in the follicular fluid of mature versus immature follicles, whereas in the healthy group, lncRNAs associated with junction adhesion and communication-related processes were highly enriched in the follicular fluid of mature versus immature follicles. In addition, differentially expressed mRNAs were principally linked to olfactory transduction pathways. Consistent results from Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) and Gene Ontology (GO) indicated that telomere maintenance and MAPK and Wnt pathways may be conserved processes, active in follicular development, and monosaccharide biosynthesis might provide possible pathway markers to distinguish between normal and PCOS follicles. We constructed gene co-expression networks that identified many co-regulatory relationships among follicular fluid lncRNAs, mRNAs, and PCOS phenotypes. Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis (WGCNA) revealed lncRNAs and mRNAs that were core and others associated with the PCOS phenotype. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION It remains unclear whether these differential transcripts contribute directly to follicular development or the pathogenesis of PCOS, or are merely biomarkers. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS It will be important in the future for investigators to ascertain the biologic mechanisms underlying the development of both normal and PCOS follicles. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (No. 81671423, No. 81402130 and No. 81501247), the Fok Ying Tung Education Foundation (No. 151039), and Distinguished Talent Program of Shengjing Hospital (No. ME76). No competing interests declared.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiao Jiao
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Bei Shi
- Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medical Science, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Tianren Wang
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Yuanyuan Fang
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Tiefeng Cao
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Yiming Zhou
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Institutes of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Xiuxia Wang
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Da Li
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
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19
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Arias-Sosa LA. Understanding the Role of Telomere Dynamics in Normal and Dysfunctional Human Reproduction. Reprod Sci 2018; 26:6-17. [DOI: 10.1177/1933719118804409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Luis Alejandro Arias-Sosa
- Universidad Pedagógica y Tecnológica de Colombia, School of Biological Science, Tunja, Boyacá, Colombia
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20
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Kosebent EG, Uysal F, Ozturk S. Telomere length and telomerase activity during folliculogenesis in mammals. J Reprod Dev 2018; 64:477-484. [PMID: 30270279 PMCID: PMC6305847 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2018-076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Telomeres are repetitive non-coding DNA sequences located at the ends of chromosomes in eukaryotic cells. Their most important function is to protect chromosome ends from being recognized
as DNA damage. They are also implicated in meiosis and synapse formation. The length of telomeres inevitably shortens at the end of each round of DNA replication and, also, as a consequence
of the exposure to oxidative stress and/or genotoxic agents. The enzyme telomerase contributes to telomere lengthening. It has been reported that telomerase is exclusively expressed in germ
cells, granulosa cells, early embryos, stem cells, and various types of cancerous cells. Granulosa cells undergo many mitotic divisions and either granulosa cells or oocytes are exposed to a
variety of genotoxic agents throughout folliculogenesis; thus, telomerase plays an important role in the maintenance of telomere length. In this review article, we have comprehensively
evaluated the studies focusing on the regulation of telomerase expression and activity, as well as telomere length, during folliculogenesis from primordial to antral follicles, in several
mammalian species including mice, bovines, and humans. Also, the possible relationships between female infertility caused by follicular development defects and alterations in the telomeres
and/or telomerase activity are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esra Gozde Kosebent
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Akdeniz University School of Medicine, Antalya 07070, Turkey
| | - Fatma Uysal
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Ankara University School of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Saffet Ozturk
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Akdeniz University School of Medicine, Antalya 07070, Turkey
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