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Dilimulati K, Yulin Z, Imai FL, Yonezawa N. N-Glycosylation Site in the Middle Region Is Involved in the Sperm-Binding Activity of Bovine Zona Pellucida Glycoproteins ZP3 and ZP4. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1636. [PMID: 38002318 PMCID: PMC10669178 DOI: 10.3390/biom13111636] [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: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Mammalian fertilization is a species-selective event that involves a series of interactions between sperm proteins and the oocyte's zona pellucida (ZP) glycoproteins. Bovine ZP consists of three glycoproteins: bZP2, bZP3, and bZP4. In our previous study, we demonstrated that bovine sperm binds to plastic wells coated with recombinant bZP4 and identified that the N-terminal domain and the middle region of bZP4 are critical for sperm-binding activity. Here, we investigated the sperm-binding site in the middle region (residues 290 to 340) of bZP4, which includes the hinge region. We showed that bovine sperm binds to bZP4's middle region in a species-selective manner. We mapped the function of bZP4's middle region to its N-glycosylation site at Asn-314 using several recombinant mutated proteins. Moreover, we showed that mutations of the N-glycosylation sites at Asn-314 close to the hinge region and Asn-146 of the hinge region of bZP4 and bZP3, respectively, reduced the sperm-binding activity of the complex of the bZP3 (from 32 to 178) and bZP4 (from 136 to 464) fragments. Together, these results suggest that ZP's middle regions of bZP3 and bZP4 form one of the sperm-binding sites of bovine ZP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamila Dilimulati
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Chiba University, Chiba 263-8522, Japan; (K.D.); (F.L.I.)
| | - Zhang Yulin
- Department of Quantum Life Science, Graduate School of Science and Engineering, Chiba University, Chiba 263-8522, Japan;
| | - Fabiana Lica Imai
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Chiba University, Chiba 263-8522, Japan; (K.D.); (F.L.I.)
| | - Naoto Yonezawa
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Chiba University, Chiba 263-8522, Japan; (K.D.); (F.L.I.)
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2
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Dilimulati K, Orita M, Yonahara Y, Imai FL, Yonezawa N. Identification of Sperm-Binding Sites in the N-Terminal Domain of Bovine Egg Coat Glycoprotein ZP4. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23020762. [PMID: 35054946 PMCID: PMC8775842 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23020762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Revised: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The species-selective interaction between sperm and egg at the beginning of mammalian fertilisation is partly mediated by a transparent envelope called the zona pellucida (ZP). The ZP is composed of three or four glycoproteins (ZP1-ZP4). The functions of the three proteins present in mice (ZP1-ZP3) have been extensively studied. However, the biological role of ZP4, which was found in all other mammals studied so far, has remained largely unknown. Previously, by developing a solid support assay system, we showed that ZP4 exhibits sperm-binding activity in bovines and the N-terminal domain of bovine ZP4 (bZP4 ZP-N1 domain) is a sperm-binding region. Here, we show that bovine sperm bind to the bZP4 ZP-N1 domain in a species-selective manner and that N-glycosylation is not required for sperm-binding activity. Moreover, we identified three sites involved in sperm binding (site I: from Gln-41 to Pro-46, site II: from Leu-65 to Ser-68 and site III: from Thr-108 to Ile-123) in the bZP4 ZP-N1 domain using chimeric bovine/porcine and bovine/human ZP4 recombinant proteins. These results provide in vitro experimental evidence for the role of the bZP4 ZP-N1 domain in mediating sperm binding to the ZP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamila Dilimulati
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Chiba University, Chiba 263-8522, Japan; (K.D.); (M.O.); (F.L.I.)
| | - Misaki Orita
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Chiba University, Chiba 263-8522, Japan; (K.D.); (M.O.); (F.L.I.)
| | - Yoshiki Yonahara
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Chiba University, Chiba 263-8522, Japan;
| | - Fabiana Lica Imai
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Chiba University, Chiba 263-8522, Japan; (K.D.); (M.O.); (F.L.I.)
| | - Naoto Yonezawa
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Chiba University, Chiba 263-8522, Japan; (K.D.); (M.O.); (F.L.I.)
- Correspondence:
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3
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Dilimulati K, Orita M, Undram G, Yonezawa N. Sperm-binding regions on bovine egg zona pellucida glycoprotein ZP4 studied in a solid supported form on plastic plate. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0254234. [PMID: 34242308 PMCID: PMC8270413 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0254234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The zona pellucida (ZP) is a transparent envelope that surrounds the mammalian oocyte and mediates species-selective sperm-oocyte interactions. The bovine ZP consists of the glycoproteins ZP2, ZP3, and ZP4. Sperm-binding mechanisms of the bovine ZP are not yet fully elucidated. In a previous report, we established the expression system of bovine ZP glycoproteins using Sf9 insect cells and found that the ZP3/ZP4 heterocomplex inhibits the binding of sperm to the ZP in a competitive inhibition assay, while ZP2, ZP3, ZP4, the ZP2/ZP3 complex, and the ZP2/ZP4 complex do not exhibit this activity. Here, we show that bovine sperm binds to plastic plates coated with ZP4 in the absence of ZP3. We made a series of ZP4 deletion mutants to study the sperm-binding sites. The N-terminal region, Lys-25 to Asp-136, and the middle region, Ser-290 to Lys-340, of ZP4 exhibit sperm-binding activity. These results suggest that among the three components of bovine ZP glycoproteins, ZP4 contains the major potential sperm-binding sites, and the formation of a multivalent complex is necessary for the sperm-binding activity of ZP4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamila Dilimulati
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Misaki Orita
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Ganbat Undram
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Naoto Yonezawa
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
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Izquierdo-Rico MJ, Moros-Nicolás C, Pérez-Crespo M, Laguna-Barraza R, Gutiérrez-Adán A, Veyrunes F, Ballesta J, Laudet V, Chevret P, Avilés M. ZP4 Is Present in Murine Zona Pellucida and Is Not Responsible for the Specific Gamete Interaction. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 8:626679. [PMID: 33537315 PMCID: PMC7848090 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.626679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Mammalian eggs are surrounded by an extracellular matrix called the zona pellucida (ZP). This envelope participates in processes such as acrosome reaction induction, sperm binding, protection of the oviductal embryo, and may be involved in speciation. In eutherian mammals, this coat is formed of three or four glycoproteins (ZP1-ZP4). While Mus musculus has been used as a model to study the ZP for more than 35 years, surprisingly, it is the only eutherian species in which the ZP is formed of three glycoproteins Zp1, Zp2, and Zp3, Zp4 being a pseudogene. Zp4 was lost in the Mus lineage after it diverged from Rattus, although it is not known when precisely this loss occurred. In this work, the status of Zp4 in several murine rodents was tested by phylogenetic, molecular, and proteomic analyses. Additionally, assays of cross in vitro fertilization between three and four ZP rodents were performed to test the effect of the presence of Zp4 in murine ZP and its possible involvement in reproductive isolation. Our results showed that Zp4 pseudogenization is restricted to the subgenus Mus, which diverged around 6 MYA. Heterologous in vitro fertilization assays demonstrate that a ZP formed of four glycoproteins is not a barrier for the spermatozoa of species with a ZP formed of three glycoproteins. This study identifies the existence of several mouse species with four ZPs that can be considered suitable for use as an experimental animal model to understand the structural and functional roles of the four ZP proteins in other species, including human.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mª José Izquierdo-Rico
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
- Institute for Biomedical Research of Murcia (IMIB-Arrixaca), Murcia, Spain
- International Excellence Campus for Higher Education and Research “Campus Mare Nostrum”, Murcia, Spain
| | - Carla Moros-Nicolás
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
- Institute for Biomedical Research of Murcia (IMIB-Arrixaca), Murcia, Spain
- International Excellence Campus for Higher Education and Research “Campus Mare Nostrum”, Murcia, Spain
| | - Míriam Pérez-Crespo
- Department of Animal Reproduction, Instituto Nacional de Investigacion y Tecnologia Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA), Madrid, Spain
| | - Ricardo Laguna-Barraza
- Department of Animal Reproduction, Instituto Nacional de Investigacion y Tecnologia Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA), Madrid, Spain
| | - Alfonso Gutiérrez-Adán
- Department of Animal Reproduction, Instituto Nacional de Investigacion y Tecnologia Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA), Madrid, Spain
| | - Frédéric Veyrunes
- Institut des Sciences de l'Evolution, UMR5554 CNRS/Université Montpellier/IRD/EPHE, Montpellier, France
| | - José Ballesta
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
- Institute for Biomedical Research of Murcia (IMIB-Arrixaca), Murcia, Spain
- International Excellence Campus for Higher Education and Research “Campus Mare Nostrum”, Murcia, Spain
| | - Vincent Laudet
- Marine Eco-Evo-Devo Unit, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology, Okinawa, Japan
| | - Pascale Chevret
- Laboratoire de Biométrie et Biologie Evolutive, UMR5558, CNRS, Université de Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Villeurbanne, France
| | - Manuel Avilés
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
- Institute for Biomedical Research of Murcia (IMIB-Arrixaca), Murcia, Spain
- International Excellence Campus for Higher Education and Research “Campus Mare Nostrum”, Murcia, Spain
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5
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Ligands and Receptors Involved in the Sperm-Zona Pellucida Interactions in Mammals. Cells 2021; 10:cells10010133. [PMID: 33445482 PMCID: PMC7827414 DOI: 10.3390/cells10010133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2020] [Revised: 01/04/2021] [Accepted: 01/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Sperm-zona pellucida (ZP) interaction, involving the binding of sperm surface ligands to complementary carbohydrates of ZP, is the first direct gamete contact event crucial for subsequent gamete fusion and successful fertilization in mammals. It is a complex process mediated by the coordinated engagement of multiple ZP receptors forming high-molecular-weight (HMW) protein complexes at the acrosomal region of the sperm surface. The present article aims to review the current understanding of sperm-ZP binding in the four most studied mammalian models, i.e., murine, porcine, bovine, and human, and summarizes the candidate ZP receptors with established ZP affinity, including their origins and the mechanisms of ZP binding. Further, it compares and contrasts the ZP structure and carbohydrate composition in the aforementioned model organisms. The comprehensive understanding of sperm-ZP interaction mechanisms is critical for the diagnosis of infertility and thus becomes an integral part of assisted reproductive therapies/technologies.
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Fahrenkamp E, Algarra B, Jovine L. Mammalian egg coat modifications and the block to polyspermy. Mol Reprod Dev 2020; 87:326-340. [PMID: 32003503 PMCID: PMC7155028 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2019] [Accepted: 12/16/2019] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Fertilization by more than one sperm causes polyploidy, a condition that is generally lethal to the embryo in the majority of animal species. To prevent this occurrence, eggs have developed a series of mechanisms that block polyspermy at the level of the plasma membrane or their extracellular coat. In this review, we first introduce the mammalian egg coat, the zona pellucida (ZP), and summarize what is currently known about its composition, structure, and biological functions. We then describe how this specialized extracellular matrix is modified by the contents of cortical granules (CG), secretory organelles that are exocytosed by the egg after gamete fusion. This process releases proteases, glycosidases, lectins and zinc onto the ZP, resulting in a series of changes in the properties of the egg coat that are collectively referred to as hardening. By drawing parallels with comparable modifications of the vitelline envelope of nonmammalian eggs, we discuss how CG‐dependent modifications of the ZP are thought to contribute to the block to polyspermy. Moreover, we argue for the importance of obtaining more information on the architecture of the ZP, as well as systematically investigating the many facets of ZP hardening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eileen Fahrenkamp
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition & Center for Innovative Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Blanca Algarra
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition & Center for Innovative Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Luca Jovine
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition & Center for Innovative Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge, Sweden
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7
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Mammalian spermatozoa and cumulus cells bind to a 3D model generated by recombinant zona pellucida protein-coated beads. Sci Rep 2019; 9:17989. [PMID: 31784633 PMCID: PMC6884566 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-54501-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2019] [Accepted: 11/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The egg is a spherical cell encapsulated by the zona pellucida (ZP) which forms a filamentous matrix composed of several glycoproteins that mediate gamete recognition at fertilization. Studies on molecular mechanisms of sperm-egg binding are limited in many mammalian species by the scarcity of eggs, by ethical concerns in harvesting eggs, and by the high cost of producing genetically modified animals. To address these limitations, we have reproduced a three-dimensional (3D) model mimicking the oocyte's shape, by means of magnetic sepharose beads coated with recombinant ZP glycoproteins (BZP) and cumulus cells. Three preparations composed of either ZP2 (C and N-termini; BZP2), ZP3 (BZP3) or ZP4 (BZP4) were obtained and characterized by protein SDS-PAGE, immunoblot and imaging with confocal and electron microscopy. The functionality of the model was validated by adhesion of cumulus cells, the ability of the glycoprotein-beads to support spermatozoa binding and induce acrosome exocytosis. Thus, our findings document that ZP-beads provide a novel 3D tool to investigate the role of specific proteins on egg-sperm interactions becoming a relevant tool as a diagnostic predictor of mammalian sperm function once transferred to the industry.
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Lamas-Toranzo I, Fonseca Balvís N, Querejeta-Fernández A, Izquierdo-Rico MJ, González-Brusi L, Lorenzo PL, García-Rebollar P, Avilés M, Bermejo-Álvarez P. ZP4 confers structural properties to the zona pellucida essential for embryo development. eLife 2019; 8:48904. [PMID: 31635692 PMCID: PMC6805156 DOI: 10.7554/elife.48904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2019] [Accepted: 09/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Zona pellucida (ZP), the extracellular matrix sheltering mammalian oocytes and embryos, is composed by 3 to 4 proteins. The roles of the three proteins present in mice have been elucidated by KO models, but the function of the fourth component (ZP4), present in all other eutherian mammals studied so far, has remained elusive. Herein, we report that ZP4 ablation impairs fertility in female rabbits. Ovulation, fertilization and in vitro development to blastocyst were not affected by ZP4 ablation. However, in vivo development is severely impaired in embryos covered by a ZP4-devoided zona, suggesting a defective ZP protective capacity in the absence of ZP4. ZP4-null ZP was significantly thinner, more permeable, and exhibited a more disorganized and fenestrated structure. The evolutionary conservation of ZP4 in other mammals, including humans, suggests that the structural properties conferred by this protein are required to ensure proper embryo sheltering during in vivo preimplantation development. The egg cells of mammals, called oocytes, are encased in a protective layer called the zona pellucida. This layer is made from proteins called ZP1 to 4. Most studies of the zona pellucida use mice, which do not have ZP4. This means that the research community have limited knowledge of what ZP4 does in humans and other mammals. Scientists can now use a technique called CRISPR to selectively modify the genetics of living things to help us to understand what specific genes and proteins do. The ZP4 protein can be eliminated from rabbit oocytes using CRISPR to help understand its role in egg cell fertilization and development. Lamas-Toranzo et al. examined the effect of losing ZP4 from rabbit oocytes. Without ZP4 the zona pellucida becomes thinner, irregular and more flexible. However, the loss of ZP4 did not affect ovulation (i.e. the release of egg cells from an ovary), fertilization, or the early stages of development of embryos when studied in the laboratory. However, rabbits without ZP4 were much less fertile. Indeed, only one out of 10 female rabbits without ZP4 was able to deliver pups because in most cases the development of embryos in the womb failed. These findings show that ZP4 has a structural role in the zona pellucida. Without ZP4 fertility is reduced. This work lays the ground for further investigation of the role of ZP4. It could also offer new insights into the causes of infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Ana Querejeta-Fernández
- Department of Physical Chemistry and Biomedical Research Center (CINBIO), Universidad de Vigo, Vigo, Spain
| | - María José Izquierdo-Rico
- Cell Biology and Histology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de Murcia and IMIB-Arrixaca, Murcia, Spain
| | - Leopoldo González-Brusi
- Cell Biology and Histology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de Murcia and IMIB-Arrixaca, Murcia, Spain
| | - Pedro L Lorenzo
- Animal Physiology Department, Veterinary Faculty, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Pilar García-Rebollar
- Animal Production Department, ETSI Agrónomos, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Manuel Avilés
- Cell Biology and Histology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de Murcia and IMIB-Arrixaca, Murcia, Spain
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9
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Moros-Nicolás C, Chevret P, Izquierdo-Rico MJ, Holt WV, Esteban-Díaz D, López-Béjar M, Martínez-Nevado E, Nilsson MA, Ballesta J, Avilés M. Composition of marsupial zona pellucida: a molecular and phylogenetic approach. Reprod Fertil Dev 2019; 30:721-733. [PMID: 29162213 DOI: 10.1071/rd16519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2016] [Accepted: 09/20/2017] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The zona pellucida (ZP) is an extracellular matrix that surrounds mammalian oocytes. In eutherians it is formed from three or four proteins (ZP1, ZP2, ZP3, ZP4). In the few marsupials that have been studied, however, only three of these have been characterised (ZP2, ZP3, ZP4). Nevertheless, the composition in marsupials may be more complex, since a duplication of the ZP3 gene was recently described in one species. The aim of this work was to elucidate the ZP composition in marsupials and relate it to the evolution of the ZP gene family. For that, an in silico and molecular analysis was undertaken, focusing on two South American species (gray short-tailed opossum and common opossum) and five Australian species (brushtail possum, koala, Bennett's wallaby, Tammar wallaby and Tasmanian devil). This analysis identified the presence of ZP1 mRNA and mRNA from two or three paralogues of ZP3 in marsupials. Furthermore, evidence for ZP1 and ZP4 pseudogenes in the South American subfamily Didelphinae and for ZP3 pseudogenes in two marsupials is provided. In conclusion, two different composition models are proposed for marsupials: a model with four proteins (ZP1, ZP2 and ZP3 (two copies)) for the South American species and a model with six proteins (ZP1, ZP2, ZP3 (three copies) and ZP4) for the Australasian species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Moros-Nicolás
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Murcia, Campus Mare Nostrum and IMIB, Murcia 30100, Spain
| | - Pascale Chevret
- Laboratoire de Biométrie et Biologie Evolutive, UMR5558, CNRS, Université de Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Villeurbanne 69622, France
| | - María José Izquierdo-Rico
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Murcia, Campus Mare Nostrum and IMIB, Murcia 30100, Spain
| | | | - Daniela Esteban-Díaz
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Murcia, Campus Mare Nostrum and IMIB, Murcia 30100, Spain
| | - Manel López-Béjar
- Department of Animal Health and Anatomy, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona 08193, Spain
| | - Eva Martínez-Nevado
- Veterinary Department, Zoo-Aquarium Madrid, Casa de Campo s/n., Madrid 28011, Spain
| | - Maria A Nilsson
- Senckenberg Biodiversity and Climate Research Centre, Senckenberg Gesellschaft für Naturforschung, Senckenberganlage 25, Frankfurt am Main D-60325, Germany
| | - José Ballesta
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Murcia, Campus Mare Nostrum and IMIB, Murcia 30100, Spain
| | - Manuel Avilés
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Murcia, Campus Mare Nostrum and IMIB, Murcia 30100, Spain
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10
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García-Vázquez FA, Soriano-Úbeda C, Laguna-Barraza R, Izquierdo-Rico MJ, Navarrete FA, Visconti PE, Gutiérrez-Adán A, Coy P. Tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) of paternal origin is necessary for the success of in vitro but not of in vivo fertilisation in the mouse. Reprod Fertil Dev 2019; 31:433-442. [DOI: 10.1071/rd18175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2018] [Accepted: 08/09/2018] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Besides its fibrinolytic function, the plasminogen–plasmin (PLG–PLA) system is also involved in fertilisation, where plasminogen activators bind to plasminogen to produce plasmin, which modulates sperm binding to the zona pellucida. However, controversy exists, depending on the species, concerning the role of the different components of the system. This study focused its attention on the role of the PLG–PLA system on fertilisation in the mouse with special attention to tissue plasminogen activator (tPA). The presence of exogenous plasminogen reduced invitro fertilisation (IVF) rates and this decline was attenuated by the presence of plasmin inhibitors in combination with plasminogen. The incubation of spermatozoa with either oocytes or cumulus cells together with plasminogen did not change the acrosome reaction but reduced the number of spermatozoa attached. When spermatozoa from tPA−/− mice were used, the IVF rate decreased drastically, although the addition of exogenous tPA during gamete co-incubation under invitro conditions increased fertilisation success. Moreover, fertility could not be restored after invivo insemination of tPA−/− spermatozoa in the female ampulla, although tPA−/− males were able to fertilise invivo. This study suggests a regulatory role of the PLG–PLA system during fertilisation in the mouse with possible implications in human reproduction clinics, such as failures in tPA production, which could be partially resolved by the addition of exogenous tPA during IVF treatment.
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11
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Moros-Nicolás C, Leza A, Chevret P, Guillén-Martínez A, González-Brusi L, Boué F, Lopez-Bejar M, Ballesta J, Avilés M, Izquierdo-Rico MJ. Analysis of ZP1 gene reveals differences in zona pellucida composition in carnivores. Reprod Fertil Dev 2018; 30:272-285. [PMID: 28679462 DOI: 10.1071/rd17022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2017] [Accepted: 06/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The zona pellucida (ZP) is an extracellular envelope that surrounds mammalian oocytes. This coat participates in the interaction between gametes, induction of the acrosome reaction, block of polyspermy and protection of the oviductal embryo. Previous studies suggested that carnivore ZP was formed by three glycoproteins (ZP2, ZP3 and ZP4), with ZP1 being a pseudogene. However, a recent study in the cat found that all four proteins were expressed. In the present study, in silico and molecular analyses were performed in several carnivores to clarify the ZP composition in this order of mammals. The in silico analysis demonstrated the presence of the ZP1 gene in five carnivores: cheetah, panda, polar bear, tiger and walrus, whereas in the Antarctic fur seal and the Weddell seal there was evidence of pseudogenisation. Molecular analysis showed the presence of four ZP transcripts in ferret ovaries (ZP1, ZP2, ZP3 and ZP4) and three in fox ovaries (ZP2, ZP3 and ZP4). Analysis of the fox ZP1 gene showed the presence of a stop codon. The results strongly suggest that all four ZP genes are expressed in most carnivores, whereas ZP1 pseudogenisation seems to have independently affected three families (Canidae, Otariidae and Phocidae) of the carnivore tree.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Moros-Nicolás
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Faculty of Medicine, Biomedical Research Institute of Murcia (IMIB-Arrixaca-UMU), University of Murcia, 30100, Murcia, Spain
| | - A Leza
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Faculty of Medicine, Biomedical Research Institute of Murcia (IMIB-Arrixaca-UMU), University of Murcia, 30100, Murcia, Spain
| | - P Chevret
- Laboratoire de Biométrie et Biologie Evolutive, UMR5558, CNRS, Université de Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, 69622, Villeurbanne, France
| | - A Guillén-Martínez
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Faculty of Medicine, Biomedical Research Institute of Murcia (IMIB-Arrixaca-UMU), University of Murcia, 30100, Murcia, Spain
| | - L González-Brusi
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Faculty of Medicine, Biomedical Research Institute of Murcia (IMIB-Arrixaca-UMU), University of Murcia, 30100, Murcia, Spain
| | - F Boué
- ANSES, Nancy Laboratory for Rabies and Wildlife, CS 40009, 54220 Malzéville, France
| | - M Lopez-Bejar
- Department of Animal Health and Anatomy, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193, Barcelona, Spain
| | - J Ballesta
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Faculty of Medicine, Biomedical Research Institute of Murcia (IMIB-Arrixaca-UMU), University of Murcia, 30100, Murcia, Spain
| | - M Avilés
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Faculty of Medicine, Biomedical Research Institute of Murcia (IMIB-Arrixaca-UMU), University of Murcia, 30100, Murcia, Spain
| | - M J Izquierdo-Rico
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Faculty of Medicine, Biomedical Research Institute of Murcia (IMIB-Arrixaca-UMU), University of Murcia, 30100, Murcia, Spain
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12
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Estimating the binding ability of collared peccary ( Pecari tajacu Linnaeus, 1758) sperm using heterologous substrates. Theriogenology 2017; 92:57-62. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2017.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2016] [Revised: 12/19/2016] [Accepted: 01/04/2017] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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13
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Yeste M, Jones C, Amdani SN, Coward K. Oocyte Activation and Fertilisation: Crucial Contributors from the Sperm and Oocyte. Results Probl Cell Differ 2017; 59:213-239. [PMID: 28247051 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-44820-6_8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
This chapter intends to summarise the importance of sperm- and oocyte-derived factors in the processes of sperm-oocyte binding and oocyte activation. First, we describe the initial interaction between sperm and the zona pellucida, with particular regard to acrosome exocytosis. We then describe how sperm and oocyte membranes fuse, with special reference to the discovery of the sperm protein IZUMO1 and its interaction with the oocyte membrane receptor JUNO. We then focus specifically upon oocyte activation, the fundamental process by which the oocyte is alleviated from metaphase II arrest by a sperm-soluble factor. The identity of this sperm factor has been the source of much debate recently, although mounting evidence, from several different laboratories, provides strong support for phospholipase C ζ (PLCζ), a sperm-specific phospholipase. Herein, we discuss the evidence in support of PLCζ and evaluate the potential role of other candidate proteins, such as post-acrosomal WW-binding domain protein (PAWP/WBP2NL). Since the cascade of downstream events triggered by the sperm-borne oocyte activation factor heavily relies upon specialised cellular machinery within the oocyte, we also discuss the critical role of oocyte-borne factors, such as the inositol trisphosphate receptor (IP3R), protein kinase C (PKC), store-operated calcium entry (SOCE) and calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII), during the process of oocyte activation. In order to place the implications of these various factors and processes into a clinical context, we proceed to describe their potential association with oocyte activation failure and discuss how clinical techniques such as the in vitro maturation of oocytes may affect oocyte activation ability. Finally, we contemplate the role of artificial oocyte activating agents in the clinical rescue of oocyte activation deficiency and discuss options for more endogenous alternatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Yeste
- Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, C/ Maria Aurèlia Campany, 69, Campus Montilivi, E-17071, Girona, Spain. .,Nuffield Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Oxford, Level 3, Women's Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Headington, Oxford, UK.
| | - Celine Jones
- Nuffield Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Oxford, Level 3, Women's Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Headington, Oxford, UK
| | - Siti Nornadhirah Amdani
- Nuffield Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Oxford, Level 3, Women's Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Headington, Oxford, UK
| | - Kevin Coward
- Nuffield Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Oxford, Level 3, Women's Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Headington, Oxford, UK
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14
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Nara M, Yonezawa N, Shimada T, Takahashi K, Tanokura M, Yumoto F, Nakagawa H, Ohashi K, Hamano S, Nakano M. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopic Analysis of the Intact Zona Pellucida of the Mammalian Egg: Changes in the Secondary Structure of Bovine Zona Pellucida Proteins During Fertilization. Exp Biol Med (Maywood) 2016; 231:166-71. [PMID: 16446492 DOI: 10.1177/153537020623100206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The zona pellucida is the acellular transparent envelope surrounding the mammalian oocyte. An analysis of the changes in the structures of zona pellucida proteins is essential for understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying the important physiological roles of the zona during fertilization and prelmplantatlon. The hardening of the zona caused by the structural changes during fertilization is generally accepted to be responsible for blocking polyspermy. In this study, we analyzed changes in the secondary structure of the zona during fertilization by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy. The predominance of β-sheet structure in porcine ovarian egg zona proteins in water was ascertained using FTIR spectra. α-Helix structure was also present. The attenuated total reflection (ATR)-FTIR spectrum of intact, unsolubilized porcine zonae pellucidae from ovarian eggs Indicated that the zona proteins in the native zona pellucida also have β-structure as the main constituent. Attenuated total reflectlon-FTIR spectroscopy of intact bovine zona pellucida obtained from ovarian and fertilized eggs at the blastocyst stage revealed that the β-structure content Increased during fertilization. Furthermore, a reduction of the thickness of the zona during fertilization was observed using transmission electron microscopy. Therefore, the change in the zona architecture that causes hardening of the zona during fertilization is accompanied by changes in the secondary structure of the zona proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masayuki Nara
- Laboratory of Chemistry, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Chiba, Japan
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15
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Shabtay O, Breitbart H. CaMKII prevents spontaneous acrosomal exocytosis in sperm through induction of actin polymerization. Dev Biol 2016; 415:64-74. [PMID: 27178669 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2016.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2016] [Revised: 05/08/2016] [Accepted: 05/09/2016] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
In order to interact with the egg and undergo acrosomal exocytosis or the acrosome reaction (AR), mammalian spermatozoa must undergo a series of biochemical changes in the female reproductive tract, collectively called capacitation. We showed that F-actin is formed during sperm capacitation and fast depolymerization occurs prior to the AR. We hypothesized that F-actin protects the sperm from undergoing spontaneous-AR (sAR) which decreases fertilization rate. We show that activation of the actin-severing protein gelsolin induces a significant increase in sAR. Moreover, inhibition of CaMKII or PLD during sperm capacitation, caused an increase in sAR and inhibition of F-actin formation. Spermine, which leads to PLD activation, was able to reverse the effects of CaMKII inhibition on sAR-increase and F-actin-decrease. Furthermore, the increase in sAR and the decrease in F-actin caused by the inactivation of the PLD-pathway, were reversed by activation of CaMKII using H2O2 or by inhibiting protein phosphatase 1 which enhance the phosphorylation and oxidation states of CaMKII. These results indicate that two distinct pathways lead to F-actin formation in the sperm capacitation process which prevents the occurrence of sAR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ortal Shabtay
- The Mina and Everard Goodman Faculty of Life Sciences, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat-Gan 5290002, Israel
| | - Haim Breitbart
- The Mina and Everard Goodman Faculty of Life Sciences, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat-Gan 5290002, Israel.
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16
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Rizo G, Roldán-Olarte M, Miceli DC, Jiménez LE, Álvarez RMS. Structural modifications induced by an in vitro maturation process in zona pellucida glycoproteins of bovine oocytes. A Raman microspectroscopy analysis. RSC Adv 2016. [DOI: 10.1039/c6ra06243a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Raman microspectroscopy is useful for discrimination between immature and in vitro matured bovine oocytes. Modifications in the glycoproteins of the zona pellucida exerted by the maturation methods might influence the process of in vitro production.
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Affiliation(s)
- G. Rizo
- Instituto Superior de Investigaciones Biológicas (INSIBIO)
- CONICET-Universidad Nacional de Tucumán (UNT)
- Instituto de Biología ‘Dr Francisco D. Barbieri’
- Facultad de Bioquímica
- Química y Farmacia
| | - M. Roldán-Olarte
- Instituto Superior de Investigaciones Biológicas (INSIBIO)
- CONICET-Universidad Nacional de Tucumán (UNT)
- Instituto de Biología ‘Dr Francisco D. Barbieri’
- Facultad de Bioquímica
- Química y Farmacia
| | - D. C. Miceli
- Instituto Superior de Investigaciones Biológicas (INSIBIO)
- CONICET-Universidad Nacional de Tucumán (UNT)
- Instituto de Biología ‘Dr Francisco D. Barbieri’
- Facultad de Bioquímica
- Química y Farmacia
| | - L. E. Jiménez
- Instituto de Química del Noroeste Argentino (INQUINOA)
- CONICET-UNT
- Instituto de Química Física
- Facultad de Bioquímica
- Química y Farmacia
| | - R. M. S. Álvarez
- Instituto de Química del Noroeste Argentino (INQUINOA)
- CONICET-UNT
- Instituto de Química Física
- Facultad de Bioquímica
- Química y Farmacia
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17
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The Hinge Region of Bovine Zona Pellucida Glycoprotein ZP3 Is Involved in the Formation of the Sperm-Binding Active ZP3/ZP4 Complex. Biomolecules 2015; 5:3339-53. [PMID: 26610590 PMCID: PMC4693281 DOI: 10.3390/biom5043339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2015] [Revised: 10/31/2015] [Accepted: 11/16/2015] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
The zona pellucida (ZP) surrounds the mammalian oocyte and mediates species-selective sperm-oocyte interactions. Bovine ZP consists of glycoproteins ZP2, ZP3, and ZP4. Neither ZP3 nor ZP4 alone shows inhibitory activity for the binding of sperm to the ZP; however, this activity is seen with the ZP3/ZP4 heterocomplex. Here, we constructed a series of bovine ZP3 mutants to identify the ZP4-binding site on ZP3. Each ZP3 mutant was co-expressed with ZP4 using a baculovirus-Sf9 cell expression system and examined for interaction with ZP4 as well as inhibitory activity for sperm-ZP binding. N-terminal fragment Arg-32 to Arg-160 of ZP3 interacted with ZP4 and inhibited sperm-ZP binding, whereas fragment Arg-32 to Thr-155 showed much weaker interaction with ZP4. Mutation of N-glycosylated Asn-146 to Asp in the N-terminal fragment Arg-32 to Glu-178 of ZP3 did not interrupt the interaction of this fragment with ZP4, but it did reduce the inhibitory activity of the complex for sperm-ZP binding. In contrast, mutation of N-glycosylated Asn-124 to Asp did not significantly reduce the activity. Taken together, these results suggest that one of the ZP4 binding sites exists in the flexible hinge region of ZP3 and that the N-glycosylation in this region is involved in the sperm binding.
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18
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Four glycoproteins are expressed in the cat zona pellucida. Theriogenology 2014; 83:1162-73. [PMID: 25623231 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2014.12.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2014] [Revised: 09/15/2014] [Accepted: 12/13/2014] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The mammalian oocyte is surrounded by a matrix called the zona pellucida (ZP). This envelope participates in processes such as acrosome reaction induction, sperm binding and may be involved in speciation. In cat (Felis catus), this matrix is composed of at least three glycoproteins called ZP2, ZP3, and ZP4. However, recent studies have pointed to the presence of a fourth protein in several mammals (rat, human, hamster or rabbit), meaning that a reevaluation of cat ZP is needed. For this reason, the objective of this research was to analyze the protein composition of cat ZP by means of proteomic analysis. Using ZP from ovaries and oocytes, several peptides corresponding to four proteins were detected, yielding a coverage of 33.17%, 71.50%, 50.23%, and 49.64% for ZP1, ZP2, ZP3, and ZP4, respectively. Moreover, the expression of four genes was confirmed by molecular analysis. Using total RNA isolated from cat ovaries, the complementary deoxyribonucleic acids encoding cat ZP were partially amplified by reverse-transcribed polymerase chain reaction. Furthermore, ZP1 was totally amplified for the first time in this species. As far as we are aware, this is the first study that confirms the presence of four proteins in cat ZP.
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19
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Chiu PCN, Lam KKW, Wong RCW, Yeung WSB. The identity of zona pellucida receptor on spermatozoa: an unresolved issue in developmental biology. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2014; 30:86-95. [PMID: 24747367 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2014.04.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2014] [Revised: 04/04/2014] [Accepted: 04/07/2014] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Mammalian oocytes are surrounded by an acellular zona pellucida (ZP). Fertilization begins when a capacitated spermatozoon binds to the ZP. Defective sperm-ZP interaction is a cause of male infertility and reduced fertilization rates in clinical assisted reproduction treatment. Despite the importance of spermatozoa-ZP binding, the mechanisms and regulation of the interaction are unclear partly due to the failure in the identification of ZP receptor on spermatozoa. Most of the previous studies assumed that the sperm ZP receptor is a single molecular species, and a number of potential candidates had been suggested. Yet none of them can be considered as the sole sperm ZP receptor. Accumulated evidence suggested that the sperm ZP receptor is a dynamic multi-molecular structure requiring coordinated action of different proteins that are assembled into a functional complex during post-testicular maturation and capacitation. The complex components may include carbohydrate-binding, protein-binding and acrosomal matrix proteins which work as a suite to mediate spermatozoa-ZP interaction. This article aims to review the latest insights in the identification of the sperm ZP receptor. Continued investigation of the area will provide considerable understanding of the regulation of fertilization that will be useful for practical application in human contraception and reproductive medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip C N Chiu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, China; Centre of Reproduction, Development and Growth, LKS Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, China
| | - Kevin K W Lam
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, China
| | - Rachel C W Wong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, China
| | - William S B Yeung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, China; Centre of Reproduction, Development and Growth, LKS Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, China.
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20
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Posttranslational modifications of zona pellucida proteins. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2014; 759:111-40. [PMID: 25030762 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-0817-2_6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The zona pellucida (ZP), which surrounds the mammalian oocyte, functions in various aspects of fertilization. The ZP consists of three or four glycoproteins, which are derived from transmembrane proteins that lack the ability to self-assemble. Following posttranslational processing at specific sites, ectodomains of ZP precursor proteins are released from the membrane and begin to form a matrix. Glycosylational modification is thought to be involved in species-selective sperm recognition by ZP proteins. However, in mice, the supramolecular structure of the zona matrix is also important in sperm recognition. One ZP protein, ZP2, is processed at a specific site upon fertilization by ovastacin, which is released from cortical granules inside the oocyte. This phenomenon is involved in the block to polyspermy. The proteolysis of ubiquitinated ZP proteins by a sperm-associated proteasome is involved in penetration of the zona matrix by sperm, at least in the pigs. Thus, the posttranslational modification of ZP proteins is closely tied to ZP formation and the regulation of sperm-oocyte interactions.
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21
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Gupta SK, Bhandari B, Shrestha A, Biswal BK, Palaniappan C, Malhotra SS, Gupta N. Mammalian zona pellucida glycoproteins: structure and function during fertilization. Cell Tissue Res 2013; 349:665-78. [PMID: 22298023 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-011-1319-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2011] [Accepted: 12/21/2011] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Zona pellucida (ZP) is a glycoproteinaceous translucent matrix that surrounds the mammalian oocyte and plays a critical role in the accomplishment of fertilization. In humans, it is composed of 4 glycoproteins designated as ZP1, ZP2, ZP3 and ZP4, whereas mouse ZP is composed of ZP1, ZP2 and ZP3 (Zp4 being a pseudogene). In addition to a variable sequence identity of a given zona protein among various species, human ZP1 and ZP4 are paralogs and mature polypeptide chains share an identity of 47%. Employing either affinity purified native or recombinant human zona proteins, it has been demonstrated that ZP1, ZP3 and ZP4 bind to the capacitated human spermatozoa and induce an acrosome reaction, whereas in mice, ZP3 acts as the putative primary sperm receptor. Human ZP2 only binds to acrosome-reacted spermatozoa and thus may be acting as a secondary sperm receptor. In contrast to O-linked glycans of ZP3 in mice, N-linked glycans of human ZP3 and ZP4 are more relevant for induction of the acrosome reaction. Recent studies suggest that Sialyl-Lewis(x) sequence present on both N- and O-glycans of human ZP play an important role in human sperm-egg binding. There are subtle differences in the downstream signaling events associated with ZP3 versus ZP1/ZP4-mediated induction of the acrosome reaction. For example, ZP3 but not ZP1/ZP4-mediated induction of the acrosome reaction is dependent on the activation of the Gi protein-coupled receptor. Thus, various studies suggest that, in contrast to mice, in humans more than one zona protein binds to spermatozoa and induces an acrosome reaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satish K Gupta
- Reproductive Cell Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Immunology, New Delhi, India.
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22
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Takahashi K, Kikuchi K, Uchida Y, Kanai-Kitayama S, Suzuki R, Sato R, Toma K, Geshi M, Akagi S, Nakano M, Yonezawa N. Binding of Sperm to the Zona Pellucida Mediated by Sperm Carbohydrate-Binding Proteins is not Species-Specific in Vitro between Pigs and Cattle. Biomolecules 2013; 3:85-107. [PMID: 24970158 PMCID: PMC4030887 DOI: 10.3390/biom3010085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2012] [Revised: 01/07/2013] [Accepted: 01/16/2013] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Carbohydrates are candidates for the basis of species-selective interaction of gametes during mammalian fertilization. In this study, we sought to clarify the roles of sugar residues in the species-selective, sperm-oocyte interaction in pigs and cattle. Acrosome-intact porcine and bovine sperm exhibited their strongest binding affinities for β-Gal and α-Man residues, respectively. Porcine-sperm specificity changed from β-Gal to α-Man after the acrosome reaction, while bovine-sperm specificity did not. Binding of acrosome-intact and acrosome-reacted sperm decreased after trypsinization, indicating that the carbohydrate-binding components are proteins. While immature oocytes bound homologous sperm preferentially to heterologous sperm, oocytes matured in vitro bound similar numbers of homologous and heterologous sperm. Lectin staining revealed the aggregation of α-Man residues on the outer surface of the porcine zona during maturation. In both species, zona-free, mature oocytes bound homologous sperm preferentially to heterologous sperm. The lectin-staining patterns of the zona pellucida and zona-free oocytes coincided with the carbohydrate-binding specificities of acrosome-intact and acrosome-reacted sperm, respectively, supporting the involvement of carbohydrates in gamete recognition in pigs and cattle. These results also indicate that sperm-zona pellucida and sperm-oolemma bindings are not strictly species-specific in pigs and cattle, and further suggest that sperm penetration into the zona and/or fusion with oolemma may be species-specific between pigs and cattle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazuya Takahashi
- Graduate School of Science, Chiba University, Chiba 263-8522, Japan.
| | - Kazuhiro Kikuchi
- National Institute of Agrobiological Sciences, Ibaraki 305-8602, Japan.
| | - Yasuomi Uchida
- Graduate School of Science, Chiba University, Chiba 263-8522, Japan.
| | | | - Reiichiro Suzuki
- Graduate School of Science, Chiba University, Chiba 263-8522, Japan.
| | - Reiko Sato
- The Noguchi Institute, Tokyo 173-0003, Japan.
| | | | - Masaya Geshi
- National Institute of Livestock and Grassland Science, Ibaraki 305-0901, Japan.
| | - Satoshi Akagi
- National Institute of Livestock and Grassland Science, Ibaraki 305-0901, Japan.
| | - Minoru Nakano
- Graduate School of Science, Chiba University, Chiba 263-8522, Japan.
| | - Naoto Yonezawa
- Graduate School of Science, Chiba University, Chiba 263-8522, Japan.
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23
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Papi M, Brunelli R, Familiari G, Frassanito MC, Lamberti L, Maulucci G, Monaci M, Pappalettere C, Parasassi T, Relucenti M, Sylla L, Ursini F, De Spirito M. Whole-depth change in bovine zona pellucida biomechanics after fertilization: how relevant in hindering polyspermy? PLoS One 2012; 7:e45696. [PMID: 23049839 PMCID: PMC3458926 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0045696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2012] [Accepted: 08/22/2012] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Polyspermy is a common problem in bovine in vitro fertilization (IVF) and has a still unclear etiology. In this specie, after IVF, despite the lack of a biochemical post-fertilization hardening, the stiffness of the outer ZP layer is significantly increased. Therefore, polyspermy might be related to an incomplete or insufficient stiffening of the ZP. We obtained, by using atomic force spectroscopy in physiological conditions, a complete characterization of the biomechanical changes of the inner and outer ZP layers occurring during oocyte maturation/fertilization and correlated them to the ultrastructural changes observed by transmission electron microscopy using ruthenium red and saponin technique. In both the inner and outer ZP layers, stiffness decreased at maturation while, conversely, increased after fertilization. Contextually, at the nanoscale, during maturation both ZP layers displayed a fine filaments network whose length increased while thickness decreased. After fertilization, filaments partially recovered the immature features, appearing again shorter and thicker. Overall, the observed biomechanical modifications were substantiated by ultrastructural findings in the ZP filament mesh. In fertilized ZP, the calculated force necessary to displace ZP filaments resulted quite similar to that previously reported as generated by bovine sperm flagellum. Therefore, in bovine IVF biomechanical modifications of ZP appear ineffective in hindering sperm transit, highlighting the relevance of additional mechanisms operating in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Massimiliano Papi
- Istituto di Fisica, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Roma, Italy
| | - Roberto Brunelli
- Dipartimento di Scienze Ginecologico-Ostetriche e Scienze Urologiche, Università di Roma Sapienza, Roma, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Familiari
- Dipartimento di Scienze Anatomiche, Istologiche, Medico-Legali e dell’Apparato locomotore, Università di Roma Sapienza, Roma, Italy
| | | | - Luciano Lamberti
- Dipartimento di Ingegneria Meccanica e Gestionale, Politecnico di Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Maulucci
- Istituto di Fisica, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Roma, Italy
| | - Maurizio Monaci
- Dipartimento di Patologia, Diagnostica e Clinica Veterinaria, Università di Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Carmine Pappalettere
- Dipartimento di Ingegneria Meccanica e Gestionale, Politecnico di Bari, Bari, Italy
| | | | - Michela Relucenti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Anatomiche, Istologiche, Medico-Legali e dell’Apparato locomotore, Università di Roma Sapienza, Roma, Italy
| | - Lakamy Sylla
- Dipartimento di Patologia, Diagnostica e Clinica Veterinaria, Università di Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Fulvio Ursini
- Dipartimento di Chimica Biologica, Università di Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Marco De Spirito
- Istituto di Fisica, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Roma, Italy
- Fondazione di Ricerca e Cura Giovanni Paolo II, Fisica Sanitaria, Campobasso, Italy
- * E-mail:
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24
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Stetson I, Izquierdo-Rico MJ, Moros C, Chevret P, Lorenzo PL, Ballesta J, Rebollar PG, Gutiérrez-Gallego R, Avilés M. Rabbit zona pellucida composition: a molecular, proteomic and phylogenetic approach. J Proteomics 2012; 75:5920-35. [PMID: 22842159 DOI: 10.1016/j.jprot.2012.07.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2012] [Revised: 06/29/2012] [Accepted: 07/16/2012] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
The zona pellucida (ZP) participates in sperm-egg interactions during the first steps of fertilization. Recent studies have shown that the ZP matrix of oocytes in several species is composed of four glycoproteins, designated as ZP1, ZP2, ZP3 and ZP4, rather than the three described in mouse, pig and cow. In this study, investigations were carried out to unveil a fourth glycoprotein in the rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) ZP. Using total RNA isolated from rabbit ovaries, the complementary deoxyribonucleic acid (cDNA) encoding rabbit ZP1 was amplified by reverse transcribed polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). The ZP1 cDNA contains an open reading frame of 1825 nucleotides encoding a polypeptide of 608 amino acid residues. The deduced amino acid sequence of rabbit ZP1 showed high identity with other species: 70% identity with human and horse ZP1, and 67% identity with mouse and rat ZP1. At the proteomic level, peptides corresponding to the four proteins were detected by mass spectrometry. In addition, a molecular phylogenetic analysis of ZP1 showed that pseudogenization of this gene has occurred at least four times during the evolution of mammals. The data presented in this manuscript provide evidence, for the first time, that the rabbit ZP is composed of four glycoproteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Stetson
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Faculty of Medicine and Faculty of Nursing, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain
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Monné M, Jovine L. A structural view of egg coat architecture and function in fertilization. Biol Reprod 2011; 85:661-9. [PMID: 21715714 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.111.092098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Species-restricted interaction between gametes at the beginning of fertilization is mediated by the extracellular coat of the egg, a matrix of cross-linked glycoprotein filaments called the zona pellucida (ZP) in mammals and the vitelline envelope in nonmammals. All egg coat subunits contain a conserved protein-protein interaction module-the "ZP domain"-that allows them to polymerize upon dissociation of a C-terminal propeptide containing an external hydrophobic patch (EHP). Recently, the first crystal structures of a ZP domain protein, sperm receptor ZP subunit zona pellucida glycoprotein 3 (ZP3), have been reported, giving a glimpse of the structural organization of the ZP at the atomic level and the molecular basis of gamete recognition in vertebrates. The ZP module is divided in two related immunoglobulin-like domains, ZP-N and ZP-C, that contain characteristic disulfide bond patterns and, in the case of ZP-C, also incorporate the EHP. This segment lies at the interface between the two domains, which are connected by a long loop carrying a conserved O-glycan important for binding to sperm in vitro. The structures explain several apparently contradictory observations by reconciling the variable disulfide bond patterns found in different homologues of ZP3 as well as the multiple ZP3 determinants alternatively involved in gamete interaction. These findings have implications for our understanding of ZP subunit biogenesis; egg coat assembly, architecture, and interaction with sperm; structural rearrangements leading to postfertilization hardening of the ZP and the block to sperm binding; and the evolutionary origin of egg coats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magnus Monné
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition and Center for Biosciences, Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge, Sweden
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Clark GF. The mammalian zona pellucida: a matrix that mediates both gamete binding and immune recognition? Syst Biol Reprod Med 2011; 56:349-64. [PMID: 20662591 DOI: 10.3109/19396360903524812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The crucial cell adhesion events required for mammalian fertilization commence when spermatozoa bind to the specialized extracellular matrix of the oocyte, known as the zona pellucida (ZP). Bound gametes then undergo a signal transduction cascade known as acrosomal exocytosis that enables them to penetrate this matrix and fuse with the oocyte to create a new individual. The ZP is therefore the target of intense investigation in the mouse, pig, bovine, and human models. Major goals in such studies are to define the adhesion molecules, signal transduction pathways, and the molecular basis for the species-restricted binding of gametes. Evidence exists indicating that protein-carbohydrate and to a lesser extent protein-protein interactions play a role in the initial gamete binding. More recent findings in an unusual sperm-somatic cell adhesion system indicate that tri- and tetraantennary N-glycans mediate initial sperm-oocyte binding in both the murine and porcine models, but conflicting data exist. A novel paradigm designated the "domain specific model" will be presented that could explain these inconsistencies. Another potential functional role of the ZP is immune recognition. Both spermatozoa and oocytes lack major histocompatibility (MHC) class I molecules that mediate the recognition of self in the immune system. This absence makes gametes less susceptible to class I restricted cytotoxic T lymphocytes, but more vulnerable to natural killer (NK) cells. Therefore a "fail safe" system for NK cell recognition should exist on both types of gametes. Another issue is that oocytes could begin to express paternal major histocompatibility antigens during the blastocyst stage prior to hatching, and thus mechanisms could also be in place to block the development of maternal adaptive immune responses. An enhanced understanding of these issues could facilitate the development of superior infertility treatments and contraceptive strategies, and define central operating principles of immune recognition in the female reproductive system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gary F Clark
- Division of Reproductive and Perinatal Research, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA.
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Izquierdo-Rico MJ, Gimeno L, Jiménez-Cervantes C, Ballesta J, Avilés M. Biosynthesis of hamster zona pellucida is restricted to the oocyte. Theriogenology 2010; 75:463-72. [PMID: 21074836 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2010.09.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2009] [Revised: 09/13/2010] [Accepted: 09/14/2010] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The zona pellucida (ZP) is an extracellular coat that surrounds the mammalian oocyte and the early embryo until implantation. This coat mediates several critical aspects of fertilization, including species-selective sperm recognition, the blocking of polyspermy and protection of the oocyte and the preimplantation embryo. Depending on the species, the ZP is composed of three to four different glycoproteins encoded by three or four genes. These genes have been cloned and sequenced for different species. However, controversy exists about the cell type specificity of the ZP glycoproteins, for which several models have been proposed. Different groups have reported that ZP is produced only by the oocytes, by the granulosa cells or by both cell types, depending on the species under study. We recently described the expression of four ZP proteins in the hamster ovary. By means of the complete set of the hamster ZP cDNAs, we undertook the study of the origin and expression pattern of the four ZP genes. In the present work, the expression of ZP1, ZP2, ZP3 and ZP4 is carefully analyzed by in situ hybridization (ISH) in hamster ovaries. Our data suggest that the four hamster ZP genes are expressed in a coordinate and oocyte-specific manner during folliculogenesis. Furthermore, this expression is maximal during the first stages of the oocyte development and declines in oocytes from later development stages, particularly within large antral follicles.
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Affiliation(s)
- M J Izquierdo-Rico
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
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Abstract
During mammalian fertilisation, the zona pellucida (ZP) matrix surrounding the oocyte is responsible for the binding of the spermatozoa to the oocyte and induction of the acrosome reaction (AR) in the ZP-bound spermatozoon. The AR is crucial for the penetration of the ZP matrix by spermatozoa. The ZP matrix in mice is composed of three glycoproteins designated ZP1, ZP2 and ZP3, whereas in humans, it is composed of four (ZP1, ZP2, ZP3 and ZP4). ZP3 acts as the putative primary sperm receptor and is responsible for AR induction in mice, whereas in humans (in addition to ZP3), ZP1 and ZP4 also induce the AR. The ability of ZP3 to induce the AR resides in its C-terminal fragment. O-linked glycans are critical for the murine ZP3-mediated AR. However, N-linked glycans of human ZP1, ZP3 and ZP4 have important roles in the induction of the AR. Studies with pharmacological inhibitors showed that the ZP3-induced AR involves the activation of the G(i)-coupled receptor pathway, whereas ZP1- and ZP4-mediated ARs are independent of this pathway. The ZP3-induced AR involves the activation of T-type voltage-operated calcium channels (VOCCs), whereas ZP1- and ZP4-induced ARs involve both T- and L-type VOCCs. To conclude, in mice, ZP3 is primarily responsible for the binding of capacitated spermatozoa to the ZP matrix and induction of the AR, whereas in humans (in addition to ZP3), ZP1 and ZP4 also participate in these stages of fertilisation.
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Abstract
A block to polyspermy is required for successful fertilisation and embryo survival in mammals. A higher incidence of polyspermy is observed during in vitro fertilisation (IVF) compared with the in vivo situation in several species. Two groups of mechanisms have traditionally been proposed as contributing to the block to polyspermy in mammals: oviduct-based mechanisms, avoiding a massive arrival of spermatozoa in the proximity of the oocyte, and egg-based mechanisms, including changes in the membrane and zona pellucida (ZP) in reaction to the fertilising sperm. Additionally, a mechanism has been described recently which involves modifications of the ZP in the oviduct before the oocyte interacts with spermatozoa, termed "pre-fertilisation zona pellucida hardening". This mechanism is mediated by the oviductal-specific glycoprotein (OVGP1) secreted by the oviductal epithelial cells around the time of ovulation, and is reinforced by heparin-like glycosaminoglycans (S-GAGs) present in oviductal fluid. Identification of the molecules contributing to the ZP modifications in the oviduct will improve our knowledge of the mechanisms of sperm-egg interaction and could help to increase the success of IVF systems in domestic animals and humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pilar Coy
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary, University of Murcia, Spain.
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Desantis S, Ventriglia G, Zizza S, De Santis T, Di Summa A, De Metrio G, Dell’Aquila M. Lectin-binding sites in isolated equine cumulus-oocyte complexes: Differential expression of glycosidic residues in complexes recovered with compact or expanded cumulus. Theriogenology 2009; 72:300-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2009.01.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2008] [Revised: 01/26/2009] [Accepted: 01/31/2009] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Mugnier S, Dell'Aquila ME, Pelaez J, Douet C, Ambruosi B, De Santis T, Lacalandra GM, Lebos C, Sizaret PY, Delaleu B, Monget P, Mermillod P, Magistrini M, Meyers SA, Goudet G. New insights into the mechanisms of fertilization: comparison of the fertilization steps, composition, and structure of the zona pellucida between horses and pigs. Biol Reprod 2009; 81:856-70. [PMID: 19587333 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.109.077651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
The mechanism of fertilization remains largely enigmatic in mammals. Most studies exploring the molecular mechanism underlying fertilization have been restricted to a single species, generally the mouse, without a comparative approach. However, the identification of divergences between species could allow us to highlight key components in the mechanism of fertilization. In the pig, in vitro fertilization (IVF) and polyspermy rates are high, and spermatozoa penetrate easily through the zona pellucida (ZP). In contrast, IVF rates are low in the horse, and polyspermy is scarce. Our objective was to develop a comparative strategy between these two divergent models. First, we compared the role of equine and porcine gametes in the following five functions using intraspecific and interspecific IVF: ZP binding, acrosome reaction, penetration through the ZP, gamete fusion, and pronucleus formation. Under in vitro conditions, we showed that the ZP is a determining element in sperm-ZP attachment and penetration, whereas the capacity of the spermatozoa is of less importance. In contrast, the capacity of the spermatozoa is a key component of the acrosome reaction step. Second, we compared the composition and structure of the equine and porcine ZP. We observed differences in the number and localization of the ZP glycoproteins and in the mesh-like structure of the ZP between equine and porcine species. These differences might correlate with the differences in spermatozoal attachment and penetration rates. In conclusion, our comparative approach allows us to identify determining elements in the mechanism of fertilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylvie Mugnier
- Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique, UMR85, Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, Nouzilly, France
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Papi M, Brunelli R, Sylla L, Parasassi T, Monaci M, Maulucci G, Missori M, Arcovito G, Ursini F, De Spirito M. Mechanical properties of zona pellucida hardening. EUROPEAN BIOPHYSICS JOURNAL: EBJ 2009; 39:987-92. [DOI: 10.1007/s00249-009-0468-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2009] [Revised: 04/20/2009] [Accepted: 04/29/2009] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Izquierdo-Rico MJ, Jimenez-Movilla M, Llop E, Perez-Oliva AB, Ballesta J, Gutierrez-Gallego R, Jimenez-Cervantes C, Aviles M. Hamster zona pellucida is formed by four glycoproteins: ZP1, ZP2, ZP3, and ZP4. J Proteome Res 2009; 8:926-41. [PMID: 19159282 DOI: 10.1021/pr800568x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The zona pellucida (ZP) is an extracellular glycoprotein matrix that surrounds all mammalian oocytes. Recent data have shown the presence of four glycoproteins (ZP1, ZP2, ZP3, and ZP4) in the ZP of human and rat rather than the three glycoproteins proposed in the mouse model. In the hamster (Mesocricetus auratus), it was previously described that ZP was composed of three different glycoproteins, called ZP1, ZP2, and ZP3, even though only ZP2 and ZP3 have been cloned thus far. The aim of the study was to determine whether hamster might also express four, rather than three, ZP proteins. The full-length cDNAs encoding hamster ZP glycoproteins 1 and 4 were isolated using rapid amplification cDNA ends (RACE). The cDNA of ZP1 contains an open reading frame of 1851 nucleotides encoding a polypeptide of 616 amino acid residues. The amino acid sequence of ZP1 revealed a high homology with other mammalian species like human (66%), rat (80%), and mouse (80%). The cDNA of ZP4 contains an open reading frame of 1632 nucleotides encoding a polypeptide of 543 amino acid residues. The deduced amino acid sequence of ZP4 revealed high overall homology with rat (82%) and human (78%). Subsequent mass spectrometric analysis of the hamster ZP allowed identification of peptides from all four glycoproteins. The data presented in this study provide evidence, for the first time, that the hamster ZP matrix is composed of four glycoproteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- M J Izquierdo-Rico
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Medicine, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain
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Kanai S, Yonezawa N, Ishii Y, Tanokura M, Nakano M. Recombinant bovine zona pellucida glycoproteins ZP3 and ZP4 coexpressed in Sf9 cells form a sperm-binding active hetero-complex. FEBS J 2007; 274:5390-405. [PMID: 17894824 DOI: 10.1111/j.1742-4658.2007.06065.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
The zona pellucida (ZP) is a transparent envelope that surrounds the mammalian oocyte and mediates species-selective sperm-egg interactions. Porcine and bovine ZPs are composed of the glycoproteins ZP2, ZP3, and ZP4. We previously established an expression system for porcine ZP glycoproteins (ZPGs) using baculovirus in insect Sf9 cells. Here we established a similar method for expression of bovine ZPGs. The recombinant ZPGs were secreted into the medium and purified by metal-chelating column chromatography. A mixture of bovine recombinant ZP3 (rZP3) and rZP4 coexpressed in Sf9 cells exhibited inhibitory activity for bovine sperm-ZP binding similar to that of a native bovine ZPG mixture, whereas neither bovine rZP3 nor rZP4 inhibited binding. An immunoprecipitation assay revealed that the coexpressed rZP3/rZP4 formed a hetero-complex. We examined the functional domain structure of bovine rZP4 by constructing ZP4 mutants lacking the N-terminal domain or lacking both the N-terminal and trefoil domains. When either of these mutant proteins was coexpressed with bovine rZP3, the resulting mixtures exhibited inhibitory activity comparable to that of the bovine rZP3/rZP4 complex. Hetero-complexes of bovine rZP3 and porcine rZP4, or porcine rZP3 and bovine rZP4, also inhibited bovine sperm-ZP binding. Our results demonstrate that the N-terminal and trefoil domains of bovine rZP4 are dispensable for formation of the sperm-binding active bovine rZP3/rZP4 complex and, furthermore, that the molecular interactions between rZP3 and rZP4 are conserved in the bovine and porcine systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saeko Kanai
- Graduate School of Science and Technology, Chiba University, Japan
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35
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Yonezawa N, Kudo K, Terauchi H, Kanai S, Yoda N, Tanokura M, Ito K, Miura KI, Katsumata T, Nakano M. Recombinant Porcine Zona Pellucida Glycoproteins Expressed in Sf9 Cells Bind to Bovine Sperm but Not to Porcine Sperm. J Biol Chem 2005; 280:20189-96. [PMID: 15788399 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m414242200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The zona pellucida, which surrounds the mammalian oocyte, consists of the ZPA, ZPB, and ZPC glycoproteins and plays roles in species-selective sperm-egg interactions via its carbohydrate moieties. In the pig, this activity is conferred by tri- and tetraantennary complex type chains; in cattle, it is conferred by a chain of 5 mannose residues. In this study, porcine zona glycoproteins were expressed as secreted forms, using the baculovirus-Sf9 insect cell system. The sperm binding activities of the recombinant proteins were examined in three different assays. The assays clearly demonstrated that recombinant ZPB bound bovine sperm weakly but did not bind porcine sperm; when recombinant ZPC was also present, bovine sperm binding activity was greatly increased, but porcine sperm still was not bound. The major sugar chains of ZPB were pauci and high mannose type chains that were similar in structure to the major neutral N-linked chain of the bovine zona. In fact, the nonreducing terminal alpha-mannose residues were necessary for the sperm binding activity. These results show that the carbohydrate moieties of zona glycoproteins, but not the polypeptide moieties, play an essential role in species-selective recognition of porcine and bovine sperm. Moreover, Asn to Asp mutations at either of two of the N-glycosylation sites of ZPB, residue 203 or 220, significantly reduced the sperm binding activity of the ZPB/ZPC mixture, whereas a similar mutation at the third N-glycosylation site, Asn-333, had no effect on binding. These results suggest that the N-glycans located in the N-terminal half of the ZP domain of porcine ZPB are involved in sperm-zona binding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naoto Yonezawa
- Graduate School of Science and Technology, Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Chiba University. Japan
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Hinsch E, Groeger S, Oehninger S, Hinsch KD. Localization and functional importance of a conserved zona pellucida 2 protein domain in the human and bovine ovary using monoclonal anti-ZP2 peptide antibodies. Theriogenology 2003; 60:1331-44. [PMID: 14511786 DOI: 10.1016/s0093-691x(03)00169-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
In mammals, gamete recognition and sperm binding to the oocyte are mediated by the zona pellucida (ZP), an acellular coat surrounding the plasma membrane of the oocyte that consists of particular ZP proteins. The ZP2 protein mediates secondary sperm binding to the ZP. Its primary structures are highly conserved as revealed by cDNA cloning. In the present study, we investigated the localization of ZP2 in human and bovine ovaries and oocytes and the influence of monoclonal anti-ZP2 peptide antibodies upon bovine sperm-egg interactions. We generated a monoclonal anti-ZP2 synthetic peptide antibody, mAb ZP2-20, against a sequence that is strongly conserved in the mammalian ZP2 amino acid sequence. Specificity of mAb ZP2-20 was determined by ELISA and immunoblotting, respectively. Our results show that mAb ZP2-20 specifically detected the peptide used as an antigen and reacted with its corresponding protein antigen in human and bovine ovaries. In order to elucidate effects of mAb ZP2-20 upon bovine sperm-ZP binding, we used the competitive hemizona assay (cHZA) and found that the antibodies clearly inhibit sperm binding to the ZP. We conclude that (i). monoclonal antibodies against ZP2 peptides react with ZP proteins present in bovine and human ovaries and can be used as a specific marker for ZP2; and that (ii). mAb ZP2-20 detects a ZP2 epitope that is of functional relevance for sperm-ZP interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elvira Hinsch
- Center of Dermatology and Andrology, Justus Liebig University, Gaffkystrasse 14, Giessen 35385, Germany.
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Yonezawa N, Nakano M. Identification of the carboxyl termini of porcine zona pellucida glycoproteins ZPB and ZPC. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2003; 307:877-82. [PMID: 12878193 DOI: 10.1016/s0006-291x(03)01297-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The extracellular matrix surrounding mammalian oocytes plays important roles in fertilization and is known as the zona pellucida (ZP). The ZP consists of three glycoproteins, ZPA, ZPB, and ZPC, which contain homologous regions known as ZP domains. The ZP domain is also found in many other secretory glycoproteins. Putative transmembrane domains present at the C-termini of ZP glycoprotein precursors are removed as the proteins proceed through the secretory pathway. However, the details of this processing have been unclear. In particular, the precise locations of the C-termini of mammalian zona proteins have not yet been determined. In this study, the C-terminal residues of porcine ZPB and ZPC were identified as Ala-462 and Ser-332, respectively, by mass spectrometry of C-terminal polypeptide fragments of these proteins. These results suggest that ZPB is processed at its furin consensus site, whereas ZPC is processed N-terminal to the furin consensus site. In addition, the analyses of porcine ZPB and ZPC fragments revealed that disulfide bonds within the ZP domains are divided into two groups, suggesting that the ZP domain consists of two subdomains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naoto Yonezawa
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Chiba University, 1-33 Yayoi-cho, Inage-ku, Chiba 263-8522, Japan
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Liberda J, Ryslavá H, Jelínková P, Jonáková V, Tichá M. Affinity chromatography of bull seminal proteins on mannan-Sepharose. J Chromatogr B Analyt Technol Biomed Life Sci 2002; 780:231-9. [PMID: 12401348 DOI: 10.1016/s1570-0232(02)00521-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The interaction of bull seminal plasma proteins and sperm with mannan was investigated using an enzyme-linked binding assay (ELBA). A high mannan-binding activity was found in the protein fraction interacting with heparin. Mannan binding to seminal plasma proteins was inhibited by D-mannose and D-fructose, but not by D-mannose-6-phosphate, D-glucose-6-phosphate, ovalbumin and ovomucoid. Mannan inhibited the binding of bovine zona pellucida glycoproteins both to bull sperm and seminal plasma proteins. Yeast mannan immobilized to divinyl sulfone-activated Sepharose was used for the isolation of mannan-binding proteins. The protein components of this fraction were identified on the basis of relative molecular mass determination and N-terminal amino acid sequencing: RNAase dimer, PDC-109 and a protein homologous to BSP-30K (relative molecular mass 14,500). The isolated proteins were characterized by a high zona pellucida binding activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Liberda
- Department of Biochemistry, Charles University, Albertov 2030, 128 40 Praha 2, Czech Republic
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Ikeda K, Yonezawa N, Naoi K, Katsumata T, Hamano S, Nakano M. Localization of N-linked carbohydrate chains in glycoprotein ZPA of the bovine egg zona pellucida. EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF BIOCHEMISTRY 2002; 269:4257-66. [PMID: 12199704 DOI: 10.1046/j.1432-1033.2002.03111.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The zona pellucida, a transparent envelope surrounding the mammalian oocyte, consists of three glycoproteins, ZPA, ZPB and ZPC, and plays a role in sperm-egg interactions. In bovines, these glycoproteins cannot be separated unless the acidic N-acetyllactosamine regions of the carbohydrate chains are removed by endo-beta-Galactosidase digestion. Endo-beta-Galactosidase-digested ZPB retains stronger sperm-binding activity than ZPC. It is still unclear whether ZPA possesses significant activity. Recently, we reported that bovine sperm binds to Man5GlcNAc2, the neutral N-linked chain in the cow zona proteins. In this study, we investigated the localization of the sperm-ligand active high-mannose-type chain and the acidic complex-type chains in bovine ZPA. Three N-glycopeptides of ZPA, containing an N-glycosylation site at Asn83, Asn191 and Asn527, respectively, were obtained from endo-beta-Galactosidase-digested ZPA. Of these glycosylation sites, only Asn527 is present in the ZP domain common to all the zona proteins. The carbohydrate structures of the N-linked chains obtained from each N-glycopeptide were characterized by two-dimensional sugar mapping analysis, while considering the structures of the N-linked chains of the zona protein mixture reported previously. Acidic complex-type chains were found at all three N-glycosylation sites, while Man5GlcNAc2 was found at Asn83 and Asn191, but there was very little of this sperm-ligand active chain at Asn527 in the ZP domain of ZPA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keiichi Ikeda
- Graduate School of Science and Technology and Department of Chemistry, Chiba University, 1-33 Yayoi-cho, Inage-ku, Chiba-shi, Chiba, Japan 263-8522
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Kim CH, Seo BB, Yamanouchi K, Kuromaru M, Sawasaki T, Hinsch E, Hinsch KD, Naito K, Tachi C, Tojo H. Essential role of ZP molecules in tubal transport of embryos in mice. Mol Reprod Dev 2002; 61:327-34. [PMID: 11835578 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.10098] [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: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Our understandings of the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying tubal transport of embryos are poor. This study describes the essential role of the molecules on the zona pellucida (ZP) in the tubal transport of mouse embryos. The bovine and porcine embryos that were interspecifically transferred to the mouse oviduct were selectively retained in the oviduct and rarely transported to the uterus. Antiserum ZP3-9 against synthetic peptides that are specific for mouse ZP3, significantly interfered with tubal transport of the treated embryos. The treatment of mouse embryos with antiserum ZP2-20 against the synthetic peptides, deduced from the sequences that are conserved in the structure of ZP2 from mouse and human, also inhibited their tubal transport. Among various proteolytic and glycosidic enzymes, treatments with trypsin and beta-glucosidase prior to transfer to the oviduct, significantly interfered with the tubal transport of the enzyme-treated mouse embryos. We hypothesize that species-specific epitopes on the ZP may be recognized by the oviductal cilia and/or the epithelial cells of ducts for tubal transport.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang Hun Kim
- Laboratory of Applied Genetics, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Science, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
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Jovine L, Litscher ES, Wassarman PM. Egg zona pellucida, egg vitelline envelope, and related extracellular glycoproteins. GENE EXPRESSION AT THE BEGINNING OF ANIMAL DEVELOPMENT 2002. [DOI: 10.1016/s1569-1799(02)12023-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
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42
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Yonezawa N, Fukui N, Kuno M, Shinoda M, Goko S, Mitsui S, Nakano M. Molecular cloning of bovine zona pellucida glycoproteins ZPA and ZPB and analysis for sperm-binding component of the zona. EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF BIOCHEMISTRY 2001; 268:3587-94. [PMID: 11422390 DOI: 10.1046/j.1432-1327.2001.02269.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The zona pellucida, a transparent envelope surrounding the mammalian oocyte, comprises three glycoproteins, ZPA, ZPB and ZPC, and plays important roles in fertilization. We have previously reported that apparent relative molecular masses of bovine zona glycoproteins on SDS/PAGE under nonreducing conditions after removal of poly N-acetyllactosamine at the nonreducing portion of sugar chains with endo-beta-galactosidase are 72 000, 58 000 and 45 000 [Noguchi, S., Yonezawa, N., Katsumata, T., Hashizume, K.,Kuwayama, M., Hamano, S., Watanabe, S. & Nakano, M. (1994) Biochim. Biophys. Acta 1201, 7-14]. The N-terminal amino-acid sequences and crossreactivity to antibodies specific to each porcine zona component show that the bovine components correspond to porcine ZPA, ZPB and ZPC, respectively. In this study, we deduced amino-acid sequences of bovine ZPA and ZPB by cDNA cloning and sequencing. Identities in amino-acid sequences between bovine and porcine counterparts were 77% for ZPA and 75% for ZPB, whereas between bovine and murine counterparts identities were 57% for ZPA and 37% for ZPB. The positions of Cys were completely conserved in bovine ZPA and ZPB compared with counterparts of other mammalian species. Bovine ZPA was processed between Ala and Asp on fertilization, suggesting that the consensus motif for the processing is Ala-Asp-Asp/Glu. We purified bovine zona components and examined their sperm-binding activity with an in vitro competition assay and sperm-bead-binding assay. As a result, ZPB showed the strongest sperm-binding activity among the components. ZPC also showed sperm-binding activity and the activity per molecule was about one-sixth that of ZPB according to the result of the sperm-bead-binding assay. We could not determine if ZPA has significant sperm-binding activity, but the activity may be much lower than that of ZPB even if ZPA has significant activity. Thus, ZPB may play a major role in sperm binding in bovine zona.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Yonezawa
- Graduate School of Science and Technology, and Department of Chemistry, Chiba University, Japan
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Amari S, Yonezawa N, Mitsui S, Katsumata T, Hamano S, Kuwayama M, Hashimoto Y, Suzuki A, Takeda Y, Nakano M. Essential role of the nonreducing terminal alpha-mannosyl residues of the N-linked carbohydrate chain of bovine zona pellucida glycoproteins in sperm-egg binding. Mol Reprod Dev 2001; 59:221-6. [PMID: 11389558 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.1026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
It has been proposed that mammalian sperm bind species-specifically to carbohydrate chains of zona pellucida glycoproteins at fertilization. Although the sperm ligand carbohydrate chains have been characterized in mice and pigs, the existence of the ligands of other mammals remains unclear. In order to explore the bovine sperm ligand, two in vitro competition assay methods were applied. As a result, a high-mannose-type carbohydrate chain, Manalpha1-6(Manalpha1-3)Manalpha1-6(Manalpha1-3)Manbeta1-4GlcNAcbeta1-4GlcNAc, which is the major neutral chain in bovine egg zona glycoproteins, was shown to possess bovine sperm ligand activity. When nonreducing terminal alpha-mannosyl residues were eliminated from the zona glycoproteins by alpha-mannosidase digestion, the ligand activity was reduced, indicating that the alpha-mannosyl residues play an essential role in bovine sperm-egg binding. The number of sperm binding to eggs was reduced to about one-half after fertilization. The ligand-active high-mannose-type chain may be buried after fertilization, since its amount remains unchanged. Pretreatment of bovine sperm with the sperm ligand-carbohydrate chain significantly inhibited penetration of the sperm into oocyte and the male pronucleus formation. Thus, a correlation between the sperm ligand activity and in vitro fertilization rate was observed.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Amari
- Graduate School of Science and Technology, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
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Parillo F, Fagioli O, Dall'Aglio C, Verini-Supplizi A. Lectin histochemical detection of sulfoglycans in the zona pellucida of mammalian antral oocytes. Acta Histochem 2000; 102:193-202. [PMID: 10824612 DOI: 10.1078/s0065-1281(04)70028-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Sulphated esters are important to increase effectiveness of specific biological activities of carbohydrates. Biochemical studies revealed the presence of distinct sulphated glycoproteins in mammal zona pellucida (ZP) that bind proacrosin and thus participate in the sperm-egg fusion processes. In the present study, 6 lectin-horseradish peroxidase conjugates (SBA, PNA, RCA-I, GSA-IB4, GSA-II and DBA) were used in combination with desulphation and sialidase digestion to identify sulphocarbohydrates in the terminal and/or subterminal position of oligosaccharide side chains of glycoproteins in the ZP of bovine, ovine, caprine and porcine antral oocytes. In particular, we identified the following terminal sulphoglycans located in the outer layer of the ZP only: SO4-GalNAc in bovine ZP; SO4-Galbeta1,3GalNAc in bovine and ovine ZP; SO4-Galbeta1,4GlcNAc in bovine, ovine and caprine ZP; SO4-alpha-Gal in bovine, caprine and porcine ZP. Subterminal sulphoglycans linked to sialic acid residues were evenly distributed throughout the entire thickness of the ZP: Neu5Ac-SO4-Galbeta1,3GalNAc in bovine and porcine ZP; Neu5Ac-SO4-Galbeta1,4GlcNAc in caprine ZP; Neu5Ac-SO4-alpha-Gal in porcine ZP; Neu5AcSO4-GlcNAc in bovine ZP. The results demonstrate that the chemical composition of the ZP differs among species determining the species-specificity of gamete interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Parillo
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biopatologiche Veterinarie, sezione di Anatomia degli Animali Domestici, Università degli Studi di Perugia, Italy.
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Takasaki S, Mori E, Mori T. Structures of sugar chains included in mammalian zona pellucida glycoproteins and their potential roles in sperm-egg interaction. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA 1999; 1473:206-15. [PMID: 10580140 DOI: 10.1016/s0304-4165(99)00180-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- S Takasaki
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Medical Science, University of Tokyo, 4-6-1 Shirokanedai, Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan.
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Abstract
Effects of bovine plasmin and plasminogen activator recovered from bovine embryo-conditioned medium (bePA) on the polypeptide profile and solubility of bovine zonae pellucidae (ZP) were evaluated. ZP were isolated from bovine ovarian oocytes and incubated at 39 degrees C with 0, 100, or 200 microg/ml plasmin for 0, 24, or 48 hr or bePA with 0 or 100 microg/ml human plasminogen for 0 or 48 hr. ZP were evaluated either by SDS-PAGE or for changes in solubility using a zona pellucida dissolution time (ZPDT) assay. Two prominent polypeptides, molecular weight (MW) 76,000 and 65,000, and two minor polypeptides, MW 23,000 and 22,000, were resolved by SDS-PAGE. No changes occurred in the polypeptide profile for ZP incubated with 0 microg/ml plasmin for 0, 24, or 48 hr, and ZPDT did not differ (P > 0.10). Treatment with 100 or 200 microg/ml plasmin induced reductions in the MW 76,000, 23,000, and 22,000 polypeptides and the appearance of MW 45,000 and <10,000 polypeptides. ZPDT were less (P < 0.05) in 100 and 200 microg/ml compared with 0 microg/ml plasmin. Polypeptide profiles and ZPDT for ZP incubated with bePA were similar (P > 0.10) to ZP incubated with unconditioned medium. Addition of human plasminogen to ZP incubated with bePA reduced the MW 76,000, 23,000, and 22,000 polypeptides, caused the appearance of MW 45,000 and 20,000 polypeptides, and decreased ZPDT (P < 0.05). These results demonstrate that bovine plasmin is capable of proteolytically degrading the bovine ZP and that bePA can indirectly affect the ZP by converting plasminogen to plasmin.
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Affiliation(s)
- M J Cannon
- Department of Animal Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis 97331-6702, USA
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Abstract
Using nonradioactive in situ hybridization (ISH), the mRNA encoding the zona glycoprotein bZPC was localized in bovine ovaries, oocytes, and embryos. In the ovary, the distribution of the mRNA was correlated with the developmental stage of the follicle. Whereas in primordial and primary follicles the mRNA was predominantly seen in the oocyte, it was found in both the oocyte and the follicle cells of secondary and tertiary follicles. In 2-day-old embryos produced by in vitro fertilization (IVF), no mRNA encoding ZPC could be demonstrated. Immunoblotting using monospecific polyclonal antibodies against porcine ZPC revealed a distinct band at a molecular weight of 47 kD in the ovarian cortex of cows, calves, and fetuses as well as in bovine follicle cells. Immunohistochemistry using the ZPC antibody displayed a strong signal in the zona pellucida of bovine oocytes and 2- to 6-day-old embryos as well as in the follicle cells. Our results show that during follicular development bovine ZPC is synthesized by the oocyte of the primary follicle and by both the oocyte and the follicle cells of the secondary and tertiary follicle. After fertilization, the synthesis of the zona protein is finished.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Kölle
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, University of Munich, Germany
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Yonezawa N, Mitsui S, Kudo K, Nakano M. Identification of an N-glycosylated region of pig zona pellucida glycoprotein ZPB that is involved in sperm binding. EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF BIOCHEMISTRY 1997; 248:86-92. [PMID: 9310364 DOI: 10.1111/j.1432-1033.1997.00086.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
ZPB, one of the pig zona pellucida glycoproteins, can be purified after removal of sialylated and/or sulfated N-acetylpolylactosamine from the nonreducing region of its carbohydrate chains by digestion with endo-beta-galactosidase. Among the components produced, only ZPB shows sperm-binding activity after the digestion. Recently, we have shown that N-linked carbohydrate chains of endo-beta-galactosidase-digested ZPB (EbetaG-ZPB) are predominantly involved in sperm binding [Yonezawa, N., Aoki, H., Hatanaka, Y. & Nakano, M. (1995) Eur. J. Biochem. 233, 35-41]. In this study, to define the sperm-binding region in EbetaG-ZPB, glycopeptides were purified from lysyl endopeptidase digests of EbetaG-ZPB and analyzed for sperm-binding activity by an in vitro competition assay. The locations of the glycopeptides were determined from partial amino acid sequences, amino acid and sugar composition analyses, and apparent molecular masses after SDS/PAGE. The N-terminal fragment (amino acid residues 137-247), which contains two N-linked carbohydrate chains, showed a significant inhibition of sperm-egg binding. However, the fragment that had one N-linked carbohydrate chain (residues 325-341) and the fragment that had two or three O-linked carbohydrate chains (residues 248-324) did not inhibit sperm-egg binding. Thus, the two N-linked carbohydrate chains in the N-terminal fragment of EbetaG-ZPB are important for sperm binding of pig zona pellucida.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Yonezawa
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Chiba University, Japan
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Abstract
Despite the economical importance of in vitro gamete technologies in cattle, only little is known about the molecular mechanisms of binding of spermatozoa to the zona pellucida (ZP) of the oocyte. The aim of the present work was to identify proteins from the bovine zona pellucida (bZP) and to investigate which bZP proteins play a role in sperm-egg binding. High resolution 2-dimensional polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis of bZP proteins under reducing conditions showed that the bovine ZP could be separated into 4 glycoprotein spots, provisionally named bZP1, bZP2, bZP3, and bZP4, with different molecular masses and isoelectrical points. The N-terminal amino acid sequence of bZP1, bZP2, and bZP4 could be determined. The N-terminal amino acid sequences of bZP1 and bZP4 were identical and were homologous to that of pZP4. Comparison of our data to that of Noguchi et al., 1994 (Biochim Biophys Acta 1201:7-14) revealed that bZP2 and bZP4 are fragments of bZP1. Immunoblot analysis showed that, respectively, anti-porcine-ZP3alpha and -ZP3beta antibodies recognized 2 distinct regions of the bZP3 spot. Both antibodies inhibited sperm-egg binding in the bovine. We conclude that the bovine ZP consists of 3 proteins that correspond by size, N-terminal amino acid sequence, and antigenic determinants of pZP1, pZP3alpha, and pZP3beta, respectively, that are encoded by the porcine ZPA, ZPB, and ZPC genes (Harris et al., 1994: J Seq Map 4:6331-393), respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- E K Topper
- DLO-Institute for Animal Science and Health (ID-DLO), Department of Reproduction, Lelystad, the Netherlands
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Katsumata T, Noguchi S, Yonezawa N, Tanokura M, Nakano M. Structural characterization of the N-linked carbohydrate chains of the zona pellucida glycoproteins from bovine ovarian and fertilized eggs. EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF BIOCHEMISTRY 1996; 240:448-53. [PMID: 8841411 DOI: 10.1111/j.1432-1033.1996.0448h.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
The N-linked oligosaccharides that were released by hydrazinolysis from glycoproteins of zonae pellucidae of bovine ovarian eggs, were composed of neutral (23%) and acidic (77%) carbohydrate chains; almost all the acidic chains were neutralized by sialidase digestion. Sugar mapping analysis of pyridylaminated N-linked chains by reverse-phase and normal-phase HPLC and 500-MHz 1H-NMR spectroscopy revealed that the major neutral chain is a high-mannose-type oligosaccharide and the acidic chains are di-, tri-, and tetra-antennary, fucosylated complex-type chains that have N-acetyllactosamine repeats in the non-reducing regions. The structures of the neutral chain and the core regions of the acidic chains of N-linked oligosaccharides from the zona proteins of fertilized eggs, which were obtained by the in vitro fertilization method, were essentially the same as those of the ovarian egg zonae. The amount, however, of the acidic chains decreased to 32 mol/100 mol in the fertilized egg zonae, which suggests that a sialidase released from the oocyte during fertilization operates on the zona glycoproteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Katsumata
- Graduate School of Science and Technology, Chiba University, Japan
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