EIF4A3-Induced Exosomal circLRRC8A Alleviates Granulosa Cells Senescence Via the miR-125a-3p/NFE2L1 axis

Non-coding RNA-mediated granulosa cell dysfunction during ovarian aging: From mechanisms to potential interventions

As the earliest aging organ in the reproductive system, the ovary has both reproductive and endocrine functions, which are closely related to overall female health. The exact pathogenesis of ovarian aging (OA) remains incompletely understood, with granulosa cells (GCs) dysfunction playing a significant role in this process. Recent advancements in research and biotechnology have highlighted the importance of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), including micro RNAs, long non-coding RNAs, and circular RNAs, in regulating the biological functions of GCs through gene expression modulation. This paper provides a comprehensive overview of the role of ncRNAs in various cellular functions such as apoptosis, autophagy, proliferation, and steroid synthesis in GCs, and explores the underlying regulatory mechanisms. Additionally, the therapeutic potential of ncRNAs, particularly those carried by exosomes derived from mesenchymal stem cells, in delaying OA is discussed. Understanding the regulatory mechanisms of ncRNAs in GC function and the current progress in this field is crucial for identifying effective biomarkers and therapeutic targets, ultimately aiding in the early diagnosis, prognostic assessment, and individualized treatment of OA.

Role of mesenchymal stromal cell secretome on recovery from cellular senescence: an overview

Cellular senescence is intricately linked with numerous changes observed in the aging process, including the depletion of the stem cell pool and the decline in tissue and organ functions. Over the past three decades, efforts to halt and reverse aging have intensified, bringing rejuvenation closer to reality. Current strategies involve treatments using stem cells or their derivatives, such as the secretome. This article aims to highlight key points and evaluate the utilization of secretome derived from mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) as an antisenescent approach. Employing a quasi-systematic research approach, the authors conducted a comprehensive analysis based on a search algorithm targeting the in vitro effects of MSC-derived secretome on rescuing cells from a senescent state. Reviewing 39 articles out of 687 hits retrieved from PubMed and Scopus without a time limit, the authors synthesized information and identified common types of MSC-tissue sources utilized (including bone marrow-MSCs, umbilical cord-MSCs, iPSC-derived MSCs, adipose tissue-MSCs, dental pulp-MSCs, amniotic membrane-MSCs, placenta-MSCs, gingival-MSCs, urine-MSCs, and commercially available MSC lineages) from both human and other species (such as mice and rats). The authors also examined the forms of secretome tested (including conditioned media and extracellular vesicles), the cell types treated (MSCs or other cell types), methods/biomarkers of monitoring senescence/rejuvenation, and the mechanisms involved. Ultimately, this review underscores the proof-of-principle of the beneficial effects of MSC-derived secretome in reversing cellular senescence across various cell types. Such insights might aid the scientific community in designing improved in vitro and in vivo assays for future research and clinical validation of this promising cell-free therapy.

A bibliometric analysis of exosomes in aging from 2007 to 2023

Background

Aging is the primary factor contributing to the development of aging-related diseases. As research on exosomes continues to advance, its relationship with aging and aging-related diseases has become a hot topic This article analyzes the research hotspots of exosomes in aging and aging-related diseases, aiming to fill the gap in bibliometric research in this field and help researchers better understand the current status and future trends of both fundamental and clinical research in this field.

Methods

The articles were retrieved and exported from WoSCC on December 18, 2023. The visual analysis of countries and regions, institutions, authors, references, and keywords in exosomes of aging was conducted using VOSviewer 1.6.18, CiteSpace 6.2.R7, and Bibliometrix.

Results

The bibliometric analysis included 1628 articles. China and the United States emerged as the top two leading countries in this field. A total of 2,321 research institutions from 78 countries and regions were primarily led by China and the United States. Both Kapogiannis D and Goetzl E were active authors in this field. Thery C, Valadi H, and Raposo G were the important promoters in this field. Thery C proposed the method of differential centrifugation and density gradient centrifugation to extract exosomes. Valadi H discovered cells could send RNA-messages to each other by loading them into exosome-vesicles. The journal with the highest number of articles was International Journal of Molecular Sciences, while PLoS One was the most frequently cited journal. The keyword analysis revealed that future research on exosomes in aging will possibly focus on "inflammation, cellular senescence, angiogenesis, insulin resistance, and Alzheimer's disease."

Conclusion

We identified the research trends of exosomes in the field of aging through this bibliometric analysis. The present study provides valuable new perspectives on the history and current status of exosomes in the field of aging and aging-related diseases, and also offering guidance for future research directions.

tsRNA-3043a intensifies apoptosis and senescence of ovarian granulosa cells to drive premature ovarian failure by targeting FLT1

Premature ovarian failure (POF) represents the pathological aging of the ovary. The tRNA-derived small fragments (tsRNAs) play significant roles in diseases; however, whether tsRNAs are involved in POF remains unknown. The cell and mice models of POF were established, and the tsRNAs profile in the ovarian tissues of POF mice was revealed through sequencing. The functions of tsRNA-3043a and its target gene FLT1 in POF cells and mice were detected. POF mice were characterized by a decreased number of normal follicles, ovarian weight, SOD level, and serum contents of E2, LH, and FSH. A total of 81 tsRNAs were aberrantly expressed in the ovarian tissue of POF mice. The expression of tsRNA-3043a was up-regulated in POF mice. tsRNA-3043a mimics inhibited the proliferation and promoted apoptosis, lipid accumulation, and cellular senescence of ovarian granulosa KGN cells, as well as altered the transcriptome. tsRNA-3043a inhibitor had the opposite effect. tsRNA-3043a targets and binds to FLT1. Overexpression of FLT1 protected KGN cells from pathological aging. tsRNA-3043a promotes the progression of POF by inhibiting FLT1 in vitro and in vivo. tsRNA-3043a targets FLT1 and promotes apoptosis and senescence of ovarian granulosa cells, leading to the progression of POF. This study provides a new target for pharmacological intervention in POF.

Mesenchymal stem cell-derived extracellular vesicles therapy for primary ovarian insufficiency: a systematic review and meta-analysis of pre-clinical studies

BACKGROUND

Primary ovarian insufficiency (POI) manifests with hormonal imbalances, menstrual irregularities, follicle loss, and infertility. Mesenchymal stem cell-derived extracellular vesicles (MSC-EVs) are emerging as a promising treatment for POI. This systematic review aims to assess the effects of MSC-EVs on follicle number, hormonal profile, and fertility in POI animal models.

METHODS

A systematic search of PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases up to December 14th, 2023 was conducted. Two reviewers independently conducted screening, risk of bias assessment, and data extraction. Meta-analysis was performed to analyze treatment versus control outcomes using a random effects model. Publication bias was assessed using Egger's regression test and sensitivity analysis was assessed using the leave-one-out method. Subgroup analyses and meta-regressions were conducted based on EV source, induction model, type of animal, study quality, administration route, administration frequency and route, and dose.

RESULTS

a total of 29 studies were included. MSC-EVs treatment significantly increased total follicle count (SMD, (95CI), p-value; 3.56, (0.91, 6.21), < 0.001), including primordial (SMD, (95CI), p-value; 2.86, (1.60, 4.12), < 0.001), primary (SMD, (95CI), p-value; 3.17, (2.28, 4.06), < 0.001), mature (SMD, (95CI), p-value; 2.26, (1.02, 3.50), < 0.001), and antral follicles (SMD, (95CI), p-value; 2.44, (1.21, 3.67), < 0.001). Administration frequency and route did not affect this outcome, but EV source affected primordial, primary, secondary and antral follicle count. Additionally, MSC-EVs treatment elevated anti-müllerian hormone (SMD, (95CI); 3.36, (2.14, 4.58)) and estradiol (SMD, (95CI); 3.19, (2.20, 4.17)) levels while reducing follicle stimulating hormone levels (SMD, (95CI); -2.68, (-4.42, -0.94)). Unlike EV source, which had a significant impact on all three hormones, administration frequency, route, and EV dose did not affect this outcome. Moreover, treatment increased offspring number (SMD, (95CI); 3.70, (2.17, 5.23)) and pregnancy odds (OR, (95CI); 10.25, (4.29, 24.46)) compared to controls. Publication bias and a high level of heterogeneity was evident in all analyses, except for the analysis of the pregnancy odds. However, sensitivity analysis indicated that all of the analyses were stable.

CONCLUSION

MSC-EVs therapy shows promise for POI treatment, potentially facilitating clinical translation. However, Further research is warranted to optimize methodology and assess side effects.

Bu-Shen-Ning-Xin decoction ameliorates premature ovarian insufficiency by suppressing oxidative stress through rno_circRNA_012284/rno_miR-760-3p/HBEGF pathway

BACKGROUND

POI (premature ovarian insufficiency) refers to premature and rapid decline of ovarian reserve function in women before the age of 40, which can be manifested as menstrual disorders, endocrine abnormalities and low fertility. Bu-Shen-Ning-Xin decoction (BSNXD) has been found to have therapeutic effects on POI. Nevertheless, how it exerts therapeutic effects remains elusive.

PURPOSE

This research aims to clarify the pharmacological mechanisms of BSNXD.

METHODS

We applied Ultra Performance Liquid Chromatography (UPLC) to identify the main components of BSNXD.4-vinylcyclohexene diepoxide(VCD)was used to induce POI models. ELISA detected the serum level of hormones. H&E staining evaluated the morphology of ovarian tissues.CircRNA and mRNA expression profiles in the ovaries of both POI rats and those treated with BSNXD were detected. Then, dysregulated circRNAs and mRNAs that were potentially altered by BSNXD were screened. Network pharmacology analysis was performed to identify drug targets of BSNXD active ingredients. A circRNA-miRNA-mRNA network and an oxidative stress(OS)-related subnetwork were constructed. Expression of rno_circRNA_012284, rno_miR-760-3p, and HBEGF(Heparin-binding epidermal growth factor-like growth factor) was measured by RT-PCR and their binding were verified by dual-luciferase reporter assays. ROS was measured through DCFH-DA fluorescence probes. The HBEGF target was selected for molecular docking with key active ingredients.Surface plasmon resonance(SPR) was applied to verify the binding ability and affinity between components and HBEGF.

RESULTS

UPLC analysis indicated that 6 chemical compounds including berberine, paeoniflorin, morroniside,gallic acid, loganin, baicalin were identified.Elevated FSH and LH levels, suppressed E2 and AMH levels in the serum, and inhibited follicles and corpus luteums in the ovarian tissues of VCD-induced rats were notably reversed by BSNXD.In total, 992 up- and 1135 down-regulated circRNAs, and 205 up- and 243 down-regulated mRNAs were found in POI rat ovaries following BSNXD administration. Furthermore, 198 drug targets of BSNXD were identified. An OS-related and BSNXD-targeted ceRNA subnetwork composed of rno_circRNA_012284/rno_miR-760-3p/HBEGF was established. rno_circRNA_012284 and HBEGF were up-regulated and rno_miR-760-3p was down-regulated in POI ovarian granulosa cells (OGCs) after BSNXD administration. rno_circRNA_012284 was a sponge of rno_miR-760-3p to elevate HBEGF expression. Moreover, rno_circRNA_012284 overexpression alleviated POI-induced excessive ROS generation in ovarian granulosa cells, while rno_circRNA_012284 inhibition exerted the opposite effect. Finally,molecular docking speculated active ingredients of each herb acted on HBEGF to reduce the OS. SPR tests showed that Berberine,Baicalein,Quercetin,Pachymic acid,Paeoniflorin exhibited satisfying affinity with HBEGF protein.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates that BSNXD ameliorates POI partly by attenuating OS in ovarian granulosa cells via rno_circRNA_012284/rno_miR-760-3p/HBEGF axis, uncovering the pharmacological mechanisms of BSNXD in alleviating POI.

Stem cell-derived extracellular vesicles in premature ovarian failure: an up-to-date meta-analysis of animal studies

BACKGROUND

There has been a significant surge in animal studies of stem cell-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) therapy for the treatment of premature ovarian failure (POF) but its efficacy remains unknown and a comprehensive and up-to-date meta-analysis is lacking. Before clinical translation, it is crucial to thoroughly understand the overall impact of stem cell-derived EVs on POF.

METHODS

PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, Web of Science were searched up to February 18, 2024. The risk of bias was evaluated according to Cochrane Handbook criteria, while quality of evidence was assessed using the SYRCLE system. The PRISMA guidance was followed. Trial sequential analysis was conducted to assess outcomes, and sensitivity analysis and publication bias analysis were performed using Stata 14.

RESULTS

Data from 25 studies involving 339 animals were extracted and analyzed. The analysis revealed significant findings: stem cell-derived EVs increase ovary weight (SMD = 3.88; 95% CI: 2.50 ~ 5.25; P < 0.00001; I2 = 70%), pregnancy rate (RR = 3.88; 95% CI: 1.94 ~ 7.79; P = 0.0001; I2 = 0%), count of births (SMD = 2.17; 95% CI: 1.31 ~ 3.04; P < 0.00001; I2 = 69%) and counts of different types of follicles. In addition, it elevates the level of AMH (SMD = 4.15; 95% CI: 2.75 ~ 5.54; P < 0.00001; I2 = 88%) and E2 (SMD = 2.88; 95% CI: 2.02 ~ 3.73; P < 0.00001; I2 = 80%) expression, while reducing FSH expression (SMD = -5.05; 95% CI: -6.60 ~ -3.50; P < 0.00001; I2 = 90%). Subgroup analysis indicates that the source of EVs, animal species, modeling method, administration route, and test timepoint affected efficacy. Trial sequential analysis showed that there was sufficient evidence to confirm the effects of stem cell-derived EVs on birth counts, ovarian weights, and follicle counts. However, the impact of stem cell-derived EVs on pregnancy rates needs to be further demonstrated through more animal experimental evidence.

CONCLUSIONS

Stem cell-derived EVs demonstrate safety and efficacy in treating POF animal models, with potential improvements in fertility outcomes.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

PROSPERO registration number: CRD42024509699.

Stem cell-derived extracellular vesicles as senotherapeutics

Cellular senescence (CS) is recognized as one of the hallmarks of aging, and an important player in a variety of age-related pathologies. Accumulation of senescent cells can promote a pro-inflammatory and pro-cancerogenic microenvironment. Among potential senotherapeutics are extracellular vesicles (EVs) (40-1000 nm), including exosomes (40-150 nm), that play an important role in cell-cell communications. Here, we review the most recent studies on the impact of EVs derived from stem cells (MSCs, ESCs, iPSCs) as well as non-stem cells of various types on CS and discuss potential mechanisms responsible for the senotherapeutic effects of EVs. The analysis revealed that (i) EVs derived from stem cells, pluripotent (ESCs, iPSCs) or multipotent (MSCs of various origin), can mitigate the cellular senescence phenotype both in vitro and in vivo; (ii) this effect is presumably senomorphic; (iii) EVs display cross-species activity, without apparent immunogenic responses. In summary, stem cell-derived EVs appear to be promising senotherapeutics, with a feasible application in humans.

Improving Granulosa Cell Function in Premature Ovarian Failure with Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stromal Cell Exosome-Derived hsa_circ_0002021

BACKGROUND

The therapeutic potential of exosomes from human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (HUMSCs-Exo) for delivering specific circular RNAs (circRNAs) in treating premature ovarian failure (POF) is not well understood. This study aimed to explore the efficacy of HUMSCs-Exo in delivering hsa_circ_0002021 for POF treatment, focusing on its effects on granulosa cell (GC) senescence and ovarian function.

METHODS

Bioinformatic analysis was conducted on circRNA profiles using the GSE97193 dataset from GEO, targeting granulosa cells from varied age groups. To simulate granulosa cell senescence, KGN cells were treated with cyclophosphamide (CTX). HUMSCs were transfected with pcDNA 3.1 vectors to overexpress hsa_circ_0002021, and the HUMSCs-Exo secreted were isolated. These exosomes were characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and Western blotting to confirm exosomal markers CD9 and CD63. Co-culture of these exosomes with CTX-treated KGN cells was performed to assess β-galactosidase activity, oxidative stress markers, ROS levels, and apoptosis via flow cytometry. Interaction between hsa_circ_0002021, microRNA-125a-5p (miR-125a-5p), and cyclin-dependent kinase 6 (CDK6) was investigated using dual-luciferase assays and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP). A POF mouse model was induced with CTX, treated with HUMSCs-Exo, and analyzed histologically and via immunofluorescence staining. Gene expression was quantified using RT-qPCR and Western blot.

RESULTS

hsa_circ_0002021 was under expressed in both in vivo and in vitro POF models and was effectively delivered by HUMSCs-Exo to KGN cells, showing a capability to reduce GC senescence. Overexpression of hsa_circ_0002021 in HUMSCs-Exo significantly enhanced these anti-senescence effects. This circRNA acts as a competitive adsorbent of miR-125a-5p, regulating CDK6 expression, which is crucial in modulating cell cycle and apoptosis. Enhanced expression of hsa_circ_0002021 in HUMSCs-Exo ameliorated GC senescence in vitro and improved ovarian function in POF models by modulating oxidative stress and cellular senescence markers.

CONCLUSION

This study confirms that hsa_circ_0002021, when delivered through HUMSCs-Exo, can significantly mitigate GC senescence and restore ovarian function in POF models. These findings provide new insights into the molecular mechanisms of POF and highlight the therapeutic potential of circRNA-enriched exosomes in treating ovarian aging and dysfunction.

Understanding the Transcription Factor NFE2L1/NRF1 from the Perspective of Hallmarks of Cancer

Cancer cells subvert multiple properties of normal cells, including escaping strict cell cycle regulation, gaining resistance to cell death, and remodeling the tumor microenvironment. The hallmarks of cancer have recently been updated and summarized. Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 1 (NFE2L1, also named NRF1) belongs to the cap'n'collar (CNC) basic-region leucine zipper (bZIP) family. It acts as a transcription factor and is indispensable for maintaining both cellular homoeostasis and organ integrity during development and growth, as well as adaptive responses to pathophysiological stressors. In addition, NFE2L1 mediates the proteasome bounce-back effect in the clinical proteasome inhibitor therapy of neuroblastoma, multiple myeloma, and triple-negative breast cancer, which quickly induces proteasome inhibitor resistance. Recent studies have shown that NFE2L1 mediates cell proliferation and metabolic reprogramming in various cancer cell lines. We combined the framework provided by "hallmarks of cancer" with recent research on NFE2L1 to summarize the role and mechanism of NFE2L1 in cancer. These ongoing efforts aim to contribute to the development of potential novel cancer therapies that target the NFE2L1 pathway and its activity.

Primary oocytes with cellular senescence features are involved in ovarian aging in mice

In mammalian females, quiescent primordial follicles serve as the ovarian reserve and sustain normal ovarian function and egg production via folliculogenesis. The loss of primordial follicles causes ovarian aging. Cellular senescence, characterized by cell cycle arrest and production of the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP), is associated with tissue aging. In the present study, we report that some quiescent primary oocytes in primordial follicles become senescent in adult mouse ovaries. The senescent primary oocytes share senescence markers characterized in senescent somatic cells. The senescent primary oocytes were observed in young adult mouse ovaries, remained at approximately 15% of the total primary oocytes during ovarian aging from 6 to 12 months, and accumulated in aged ovaries. Administration of a senolytic drug ABT263 to 3-month-old mice reduced the percentage of senescent primary oocytes and the transcription of the SASP factors in the ovary, in addition, led to increased numbers of primordial and total follicles and a higher rate of oocyte maturation. Our study provides experimental evidence that primary oocytes, a germline cell type that is arrested in meiosis, become senescent in adult mouse ovaries and that senescent cell clearance reduced primordial follicle loss and mitigated ovarian aging phenotypes.

Mechanisms of mitochondrial dysfunction in ovarian aging and potential interventions

Mitochondria plays an essential role in regulating cellular metabolic homeostasis, proliferation/differentiation, and cell death. Mitochondrial dysfunction is implicated in many age-related pathologies. Evidence supports that the dysfunction of mitochondria and the decline of mitochondrial DNA copy number negatively affect ovarian aging. However, the mechanism of ovarian aging is still unclear. Treatment methods, including antioxidant applications, mitochondrial transplantation, emerging biomaterials, and advanced technologies, are being used to improve mitochondrial function and restore oocyte quality. This article reviews key evidence and research updates on mitochondrial damage in the pathogenesis of ovarian aging, emphasizing that mitochondrial damage may accelerate and lead to cellular senescence and ovarian aging, as well as exploring potential methods for using mitochondrial mechanisms to slow down aging and improve oocyte quality.

Decreased Serum Levels of the Insulin Resistance-Related microRNA miR-320a in Patients with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is often associated with metabolic abnormalities in the affected patients such as obesity or a dysregulated glucose metabolism/insulin resistance (IR). IR affects the serum levels of several circulating microRNAs; however, studies on the association between IR-related microRNAs and PCOS are scarce. Therefore, we quantified the serum levels of the IR-associated microRNAs miR-93, miR-148a, miR-216a, miR-224 and miR-320a via qPCR in a cohort of 358 infertility patients, of whom 136 were diagnosed with PCOS. In bivariate correlation analyses, the serum levels of miR-93 and miR-216a were inversely associated with dipeptidyl peptidase 4 serum concentrations, and the miR-320a serum levels were significantly downregulated in PCOS patients (p = 0.02, Mann-Whitney U test). Interestingly, in all patients who achieved pregnancy after Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) cycles, the serum levels of the five IR-associated microRNAs were significantly elevated compared to those of non-pregnant patients. In cell culture experiments, we detected a significant upregulation of miR-320a expression following testosterone stimulation over 24 and 48 h in KGN and COV434 granulosa carcinoma cells. In conclusion, we demonstrated a significantly reduced serum level of the IR-associated miR-320a in our patient cohort. This result once again demonstrates the close relationship between metabolic disorders and the dysregulation of microRNA expression patterns in PCOS.

Role and Mechanism of Epigenetic Regulation in the Aging of Germ Cells: Prospects for Targeted Interventions

In modern times, a notable trend toward delayed childbearing has been observed in most developed countries. As a result, sperm aging and quality loss, as well as premature ovarian failure (POF), have emerged as major causes of infertility. The pathogenesis of sperm aging and POF is complex and has not been clearly elucidated. However, evidence from some studies has linked germ cell aging to epigenetic modifications. Epigenetics refers to the heritable changes in gene expression that occur in the absence of any alterations to the gene's nucleotide sequence. This paper systematically reviewed and analyzed the relevant literature to describe the relationship of DNA methylation, non-coding RNA regulation, histone modifications, chromatin remodeling, and RNA modifications with sperm aging and POF. In addition, we analyzed how sperm aging and POF can be mitigated via epigenetic interventions. This review could provide new therapeutic insights and guide strategies for improving sperm quality and ovarian function.

Primary oocytes with cellular senescence features are involved in ovarian aging in mice

In mammalian females, quiescent primordial follicles serve as the ovarian reserve and sustain normal ovarian function and egg production via folliculogenesis. The loss of primordial follicles causes ovarian aging. Cellular senescence, characterized by cell cycle arrest and production of the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP), is associated with tissue aging. In the present study, we report that some quiescent primary oocytes in primordial follicles become senescent in adult mouse ovaries. The senescent primary oocytes share senescence markers characterized in senescent somatic cells. The senescent primary oocytes were observed in young adult mouse ovaries, remained at approximately 15% of the total primary oocytes during ovarian aging from 6 months to 12 months, and accumulated in aged ovaries. Administration of a senolytic drug ABT263 to 3-month-old mice reduced the percentage of senescent primary oocytes and the transcription of the SASP cytokines in the ovary. In addition, led to increased numbers of primordial and total follicles and a higher rate of oocyte maturation and female fertility. Our study provides experimental evidence that primary oocytes, a germline cell type that is arrested in meiosis, become senescent in adult mouse ovaries and that senescent cell clearance reduced primordial follicle loss and mitigated ovarian aging phenotypes.