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Cimadomo D, Innocenti F, Taggi M, Saturno G, Campitiello MR, Guido M, Vaiarelli A, Ubaldi FM, Rienzi L. How should the best human embryo in vitro be? Current and future challenges for embryo selection. Minerva Obstet Gynecol 2024; 76:159-173. [PMID: 37326354 DOI: 10.23736/s2724-606x.23.05296-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
In-vitro fertilization (IVF) aims at overcoming the causes of infertility and lead to a healthy live birth. To maximize IVF efficiency, it is critical to identify and transfer the most competent embryo within a cohort produced by a couple during a cycle. Conventional static embryo morphological assessment involves sequential observations under a light microscope at specific timepoints. The introduction of time-lapse technology enhanced morphological evaluation via the continuous monitoring of embryo preimplantation in vitro development, thereby unveiling features otherwise undetectable via multiple static assessments. Although an association exists, blastocyst morphology poorly predicts chromosomal competence. In fact, the only reliable approach currently available to diagnose the embryonic karyotype is trophectoderm biopsy and comprehensive chromosome testing to assess non-mosaic aneuploidies, namely preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidies (PGT-A). Lately, the focus is shifting towards the fine-tuning of non-invasive technologies, such as "omic" analyses of waste products of IVF (e.g., spent culture media) and/or artificial intelligence-powered morphologic/morphodynamic evaluations. This review summarizes the main tools currently available to assess (or predict) embryo developmental, chromosomal, and reproductive competence, their strengths, the limitations, and the most probable future challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danilo Cimadomo
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, GENERA, Clinica Valle Giulia, Rome, Italy -
| | - Federica Innocenti
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, GENERA, Clinica Valle Giulia, Rome, Italy
| | - Marilena Taggi
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, GENERA, Clinica Valle Giulia, Rome, Italy
- Lazzaro Spallanzani Department of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Gaia Saturno
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, GENERA, Clinica Valle Giulia, Rome, Italy
- Lazzaro Spallanzani Department of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Maria R Campitiello
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Physiopathology of Human Reproduction, ASL Salerno, Salerno, Italy
| | - Maurizio Guido
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Alberto Vaiarelli
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, GENERA, Clinica Valle Giulia, Rome, Italy
| | - Filippo M Ubaldi
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, GENERA, Clinica Valle Giulia, Rome, Italy
| | - Laura Rienzi
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, GENERA, Clinica Valle Giulia, Rome, Italy
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, Carlo Bo University of Urbino, Urbino, Italy
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Wang X, Wang L, Xiang W. Mechanisms of ovarian aging in women: a review. J Ovarian Res 2023; 16:67. [PMID: 37024976 PMCID: PMC10080932 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-023-01151-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Ovarian aging is a natural and physiological aging process characterized by loss of quantity and quality of oocyte or follicular pool. As it is generally accepted that women are born with a finite follicle pool that will go through constant decline without renewing, which, together with decreased oocyte quality, makes a severe situation for women who is of advanced age but desperate for a healthy baby. The aim of our review was to investigate mechanisms leading to ovarian aging by discussing both extra- and intra- ovarian factors and to identify genetic characteristics of ovarian aging. The mechanisms were identified as both extra-ovarian alternation of hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis and intra-ovarian alternation of ovary itself, including telomere, mitochondria, oxidative stress, DNA damage, protein homeostasis, aneuploidy, apoptosis and autophagy. Moreover, here we reviewed related Genome-wide association studies (GWAS studies) from 2009 to 2021 and next generation sequencing (NGS) studies of primary ovarian insufficiency (POI) in order to describe genetic characteristics of ovarian aging. It is reasonable to wish more reliable anti-aging interventions for ovarian aging as the exploration of mechanisms and genetics being progressing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangfei Wang
- Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Lingjuan Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Wenpei Xiang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
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Non-Coding RNAs as Biomarkers for Embryo Quality and Pregnancy Outcomes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24065751. [PMID: 36982824 PMCID: PMC10052053 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24065751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite advances in in vitro fertilization (IVF), there is still a lack of non-invasive and reliable biomarkers for selecting embryos with the highest developmental and implantation potential. Recently, small non-coding RNAs (sncRNAs) have been identified in biological fluids, and extracellular sncRNAs are explored as diagnostic biomarkers in the prediction of IVF outcomes. To determine the predictive role of sncRNAs in embryo quality and IVF outcomes, a systematic review and meta-analysis was performed. Articles were retrieved from PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science from 1990 to 31 July 2022. Eighteen studies that met the selection criteria were analyzed. In total, 22 and 47 different sncRNAs were found to be dysregulated in follicular fluid (FF) and embryo spent culture medium (SCM), respectively. MiR-663b, miR-454 and miR-320a in FF and miR-20a in SCM showed consistent dysregulation in two different studies. The meta-analysis indicated the potential predictive performance of sncRNAs as non-invasive biomarkers, with a pooled area under curve (AUC) value of 0.81 (95% CI 0.78, 0.844), a sensitivity of 0.79 (95% CI 0.72, 0.85), a specificity of 0.67 (95% CI 0.52, 0.79) and a diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) of 8 (95% CI 5, 12). Significant heterogeneity was identified among studies in sensitivity (I2 = 46.11%) and specificity (I2 = 89.73%). This study demonstrates that sncRNAs may distinguish embryos with higher developmental and implantation potentials. They can be promising non-invasive biomarkers for embryo selection in ART. However, the significant heterogeneity among studies highlights the demand for prospective multicenter studies with optimized methods and adequate sample sizes in the future.
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Liu C, Wang M, Yao H, Cui M, Gong X, Wang L, Sui C, Zhang H. Inhibition of oocyte maturation by follicular extracellular vesicles of non-hyperandrogenic PCOS patients requiring IVF. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2022; 108:1394-1404. [PMID: 36527699 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgac733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2021] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common diseases that contribute to subfertility. Recent evidence showed that oocytes of women with PCOS matured in vitro away from the follicular fluid presented better potentials, whereas the reason remained unclear. OBJECTIVE To investigate whether follicular extracellular vesicles (EVs) of PCOS patients interfere with the quality of oocytes. METHODS Follicular EVs of women with PCOS (PCOS-EVs) and control women (CTRL-EVs) were isolated and determined using western blotting, nanoparticle tracking analysis, and transmission electron microscopy. The two types of EVs were co-cultured with murine germinal vesicle oocytes, respectively. Fluorescence labeled EVs were used to visualize internalization by oocytes. After co-culture, oocyte maturation rates were calculated. Mitochondria distribution and reactive oxygen species (ROS) level were detected in the different groups. Spindle morphology was evaluated using immunofluorescence. Moreover, the expression of catalase (CAT), glutathione synthetase (GSS), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) was determined in the oocytes. RESULTS Both PCOS-EVs and CTRL-EVs are bilayered vesicles, approximately 100-150 nm in size, and enriched in EV-associating protein markers. EVs were internalized by oocytes within one hour. Oocyte maturation rate decreased significantly in the PCOS-EV group compared with the CTRL-EV group; whereas the abnormal mitochondria distribution rate and abnormal spindle rate were significantly increased in the PCOS-EV group. Moreover, PCOS-EVs increased the ROS level and the expression of CAT, GSS, and SOD in the oocytes. CONCLUSIONS PCOS-EVs interfered with oocyte mitochondria and spindles and inhibited oocyte maturation. Moreover, oxidative stress induced by PCOS-EVs might be a potential cause.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang Liu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology
| | - Meng Wang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology
| | - Haixia Yao
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology
- Shangrao People's Hospital, Shangrao, China
| | - Mengge Cui
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology
| | - Xueqi Gong
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology
| | - Lan Wang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology
| | - Cong Sui
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology
| | - Hanwang Zhang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology
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Shi H, Pan M, Sheng Y, Jia E, Wang Y, Dong J, Tu J, Bai Y, Cai L, Ge Q. Extracellular cell-free RNA profile in human large follicles and small follicles. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:940336. [PMID: 36225318 PMCID: PMC9549077 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.940336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Previous studies have shown that a large number of valuable and functional cell-free RNAs (cfRNAs) were found in follicular fluid. However, the species and characteristics of follicular fluid cfRNAs have not been reported. Furthermore, their implications are still barely understood in the evaluation of follicular fluid from follicles of different sizes, which warrants further studies.Objective: This study investigated the landscape and characteristics of follicular fluid cfRNAs, the source of organization, and the potential for distinguishing between follicles of different sizes.Methods: Twenty-four follicular fluid samples were collected from 20 patients who received in vitro fertilization (n = 9) or ICSI (n = 11), including 16 large follicular fluid and 8 small follicular fluid samples. Also, the cfRNA profile of follicular fluid samples was analyzed by RNA sequencing.Results: This result indicated that the concentration of follicular fluid cfRNAs ranged from 0.78 to 8.76 ng/ml, and fragment length was 20–200 nucleotides. The concentration and fragment length of large follicular fluid and small follicular fluid samples were not significantly different (p > 0.05). The technical replica correlation of follicular fluid samples ranged from 0.3 to 0.9, and the correlation of small follicular fluid samples was remarkably (p < 0.001) lower than that of large follicular fluid samples. Moreover, this study found that cfRNAs of the follicular fluid could be divided into 37 Ensembl RNA biotypes, and a large number of mRNAs, circRNAs, and lncRNAs were observed in the follicular fluid. The number of cfRNAs in large follicular fluid was remarkably (p < 0.05) higher than that of small follicular fluid. Furthermore, the follicular fluid contained a large amount of intact mRNA and splice junctions and a large number of tissue-derived RNAs, which are at a balanced state of supply and elimination in the follicular fluid. KEGG pathway analysis showed that differentially expressed cfRNAs were enriched in several pathways, including thyroid hormone synthesis, the cGMP-PKG signaling pathway, and inflammatory mediator regulation of TRP channels. In addition, we further showed that four cfRNAs (TK2, AHDC1, PHF21A, and TTYH1) serve as a potential indicator to distinguish the follicles of different sizes. The ROC curve shows great potential to predict follicular fluid from follicles of different sizes [area under the curve (AUC) > 0.88].Conclusion: Overall, our study revealed that a large number of cfRNAs could be detected in follicular fluid and could serve as a potential non-invasive biomarker in distinguishing between follicles of different sizes. These results may inform the study of the utility and implementation of cfRNAs in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huajuan Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Min Pan
- School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yuqi Sheng
- State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Erteng Jia
- State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ying Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Juan Dong
- Clinical Center of Reproductive Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jing Tu
- State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yunfei Bai
- State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Lingbo Cai
- Clinical Center of Reproductive Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- *Correspondence: Lingbo Cai, ; Qinyu Ge,
| | - Qinyu Ge
- State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
- *Correspondence: Lingbo Cai, ; Qinyu Ge,
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Melatonin levels and microRNA (miRNA) relative expression profile in the follicular ambient microenvironment in patients undergoing in vitro fertilization process. J Assist Reprod Genet 2020; 38:443-459. [PMID: 33226531 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-020-02010-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Intrafollicular fluid (IFF) melatonin plays a decisive role in maintaining granulosa cells' DNA integrity and protects them against apoptosis. It reduces oxidative stress and improves the oocyte quality with a higher fertilization rate. METHOD This prospective study investigated the antioxidant property of IFF melatonin and its impact on IVF outcome parameters. We also explored the relative expression of five microRNAs (miR-663b, miR-320a, miR-766-3p, miR-132-3p, miR-16-5p) and levels of cell-free DNA (cfDNA) by real-time PCR in unexplained infertile patients. We collected 425 follicular fluid (FF) samples containing mature oocytes from 295 patients undergoing IVF. RESULTS Patients were subgrouped based on IFF melatonin concentration (group A ≤ 30 pg/mL, group B > 70 to ≤ 110 pg/mL, group C > 111 to ≤ 385 pg/mL). Our results showed that patients with ≤ 30 pg/mL IFF melatonin levels have significantly higher oxidative stress markers, cfDNA levels, and lower relative expression of miR-663b, miR-320a, miR-766-3p, miR-132-3p, and miR-16-5p compared to other subgroups (p < 0.001). Similarly, they have a low fertilization rate and a reduced number of high-quality day 3 embryos. CONCLUSION Findings suggest that the therapeutic use of melatonin produces a considerable rise in the number of mature oocytes retrieved, fertilization rate, and good-quality embryo selection. Furthermore, miRNA signature enhances the quality of embryo selection, thus, may allow us to classify them as non-invasive biomarkers to identify good-quality embryos.
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Zhou W, Dimitriadis E. Secreted MicroRNA to Predict Embryo Implantation Outcome: From Research to Clinical Diagnostic Application. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:586510. [PMID: 33072767 PMCID: PMC7537741 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.586510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2020] [Accepted: 08/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Embryo implantation failure is considered a leading cause of infertility and a significant bottleneck for in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment. Confirmed factors that lead to implantation failure involve unhealthy embryos, unreceptive endometrium, and asynchronous development and communication between the two. The quality of embryos is further dependent on sperm parameters, oocyte quality, and early embryo development after fertilization. The extensive involvement of such different factors contributes to the variability of implantation potential across different menstrual cycles. An ideal approach to predict the implantation outcome should not compromise embryo implantation. The use of clinical material, including follicular fluid, cumulus cells, sperm, seminal exosomes, spent blastocyst culture medium, blood, and uterine fluid, that can be collected relatively non-invasively without compromising embryo implantation in a transfer cycle opens new perspectives for the diagnosis of embryo implantation potential. Compositional comparison of these samples between fertile women and women or couples with implantation failure has identified both quantitative and qualitative differences in the expression of microRNAs (miRs) that hold diagnostic potential for implantation failure. Here, we review current findings of secreted miRs that have been identified to potentially be useful in predicting implantation outcome using material that can be collected relatively non-invasively. Developing non-invasive biomarkers of implantation potential would have a major impact on implantation failure and infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Zhou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,Gynaecology Research Centre, The Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Evdokia Dimitriadis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,Gynaecology Research Centre, The Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia
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Qasemi M, Amidi F. Extracellular microRNA profiling in human follicular fluid: new biomarkers in female reproductive potential. J Assist Reprod Genet 2020; 37:1769-1780. [PMID: 32642870 PMCID: PMC7468023 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-020-01860-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2020] [Accepted: 06/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small, about 22 nucleotides, non-coding RNAs which regulate a wide range of gene expression during post-transcriptional stage. They are released into intra- and extracellular microenvironments and play vital roles in different physiological and pathological pathways. Due to easy accessibility, detection of extracellular miRNAs in body fluids, e.g. serum, plasma, cerebrospinal fluid, and follicular fluid, has been explored in recent years. Since miRNAs are stable at unsuitable conditions, scientists have been investigating to use them as biomarkers in different fields of medicines. It goes without saying that experienced biomarkers would be required in reproductive medicine as well. Biomarkers can help clinicians and embryologists to diagnose disorders and assess the embryo quality via molecular pattern which is more reliable than nowadays routine methods. Follicular fluid as a noninvasive fluid in assisted reproductive techniques (ART) has attracted researchers as a rich pool for biomarkers, and miRNAs are not exception. Although miRNA biomarkers in reproduction field are located on their initial stage and there is a long path to move forward, several meticulous studies have been performed and discovered their associations with various conditions. In this regard, we summarize the reported miRNAs in follicular fluid and their correlations with female infertility and ART success rate, while subsequent investigations are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Qasemi
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fardin Amidi
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
- Department of Infertility, Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Salas-Huetos A, James ER, Aston KI, Jenkins TG, Carrell DT, Yeste M. The Expression of miRNAs in Human Ovaries, Oocytes, Extracellular Vesicles, and Early Embryos: A Systematic Review. Cells 2019; 8:cells8121564. [PMID: 31817143 PMCID: PMC6952888 DOI: 10.3390/cells8121564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2019] [Revised: 11/22/2019] [Accepted: 12/03/2019] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The recent discovery of microRNAs (miRNAs) in human reproductive tissues and cells indicates a possible functional role in reproductive function. However, the studies published to date in female reproductive tissues/cells and embryos are inconclusive and sometimes controversial. In order to update the knowledge of this field, the present study aimed to discuss, through a systematic review, the role of miRNAs in female human reproduction and early embryogenesis. We conducted a systematic review of the published literature in MEDLINE and EMBASE databases through June 2018 (plus a complementary search until July 2019), in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines. We have included descriptive and observational studies, in which fertile/infertile women were well-defined. The primary outcome was the miRNA expression in ovaries, oocytes, extracellular vesicles, and embryos. We identified 25,204 articles, of which 28 were selected for qualitative analysis: 18 in ovaries and extracellular vesicles, three in oocytes, and seven in embryos. The present systematic review of descriptive and observational studies demonstrates that aberrant miRNA expression in female reproductive tissues/cells and embryos is related with infertility and embryogenesis errors. The expression of specific miRNAs, particularly in extracellular vesicles, may be used in the future as biomarkers of infertility and prognostic tools of embryo development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Albert Salas-Huetos
- Andrology and IVF Laboratory, Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, USA; (E.R.J.); (K.I.A.); (T.G.J.); (D.T.C.)
- Correspondence: (A.S.-H.); (M.Y.); Tel.: +34-972419514 (M.Y.)
| | - Emma R. James
- Andrology and IVF Laboratory, Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, USA; (E.R.J.); (K.I.A.); (T.G.J.); (D.T.C.)
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, USA
| | - Kenneth I. Aston
- Andrology and IVF Laboratory, Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, USA; (E.R.J.); (K.I.A.); (T.G.J.); (D.T.C.)
| | - Timothy G. Jenkins
- Andrology and IVF Laboratory, Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, USA; (E.R.J.); (K.I.A.); (T.G.J.); (D.T.C.)
| | - Douglas T. Carrell
- Andrology and IVF Laboratory, Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, USA; (E.R.J.); (K.I.A.); (T.G.J.); (D.T.C.)
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, USA
| | - Marc Yeste
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, 17003 Girona, Spain
- Correspondence: (A.S.-H.); (M.Y.); Tel.: +34-972419514 (M.Y.)
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Li X, Zhang W, Fu J, Xu Y, Gu R, Qu R, Li L, Sun Y, Sun X. MicroRNA-451 is downregulated in the follicular fluid of women with endometriosis and influences mouse and human embryonic potential. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2019; 17:96. [PMID: 31744497 PMCID: PMC6862852 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-019-0538-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2019] [Accepted: 11/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous work demonstrated that there are numerous miRNAs in human follicular fluids, some of which are associated with reproductive diseases. In the current study, we sought to determine whether microRNAs (miRNAs) in the follicular fluid (FF) are differentially expressed between women with and without endometriosis and to uncover the association of miRNAs with the oocyte and embryonic development potential. METHODS FF was harvested from 30 women with endometriosis and 30 women without who underwent in vitro fertilization treatment at the University Hospital between February and December 2016. The FF samples were subjected to miRNA profiling and validation via quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction analysis. Mouse/human metaphase-I (MI) oocytes were harvested and micro-injected with an miR-451 inhibitor, and the effects of miR-451 knockdown on Wnt/WNT signalling genes were investigated. RESULTS Oocyte number, fertilization rate, and number of available embryos were decreased significantly in women with endometriosis relative to those without endometriosis. Hsa-miR-451 in FF was downregulated in endometriosis patients relative to control subjects (P < 0.01). Moreover, the proportions of mouse/human MI oocytes that developed into 2-pronuclei (2PN), 2-cell, 8-10-cell and blastocyst-stage embryos were affected by miR-451 knockdown in mouse/human oocytes. Components of the Wnt signalling pathway were aberrantly expressed in the mouse/human oocytes and embryos in the miR-451 inhibitor-injected group. CONCLUSIONS miR-451 was downregulated in FF samples from endometriosis patients and was modestly effective in distinguishing endometriosis patients from non-endometriosis patients. miR-451 downregulation in mouse and human oocytes affected pre-implantation embryogenesis by suppressing the Wnt signalling pathway. This miRNA might serve as a novel biomarker of oocyte and embryo quality in assisted reproductive treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiong Li
- Shanghai Ji Ai Genetics & IVF Institute, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Wenbi Zhang
- Shanghai Ji Ai Genetics & IVF Institute, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Jing Fu
- Shanghai Ji Ai Genetics & IVF Institute, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Yan Xu
- Shanghai Ji Ai Genetics & IVF Institute, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Ruihuan Gu
- Shanghai Ji Ai Genetics & IVF Institute, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Ronggui Qu
- Shanghai Ji Ai Genetics & IVF Institute, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Lu Li
- Shanghai Ji Ai Genetics & IVF Institute, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Yijuan Sun
- Shanghai Ji Ai Genetics & IVF Institute, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Xiaoxi Sun
- Shanghai Ji Ai Genetics & IVF Institute, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200011, China.
- Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200011, China.
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11
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Cimadomo D, Carmelo R, Parrotta EI, Scalise S, Santamaria G, Alviggi E, De Angelis MT, Sarro G, Vaiarelli A, Venturella R, Rienzi L, Zullo F, Ubaldi FM, Cuda G. Similar miRNomic signatures characterize the follicular fluids collected after follicular and luteal phase stimulations in the same ovarian cycle. J Assist Reprod Genet 2019; 37:149-158. [PMID: 31701304 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-019-01607-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2019] [Accepted: 10/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To detect putative differences in the miRNomic profile of follicular fluids collected after follicular-phase-stimulation (FPS-FFs) and paired luteal-phase-stimulation (LPS-FFs) in the same ovarian cycles (DuoStim). METHODS Exploratory study at a private IVF center and University involving FPS-FFs and paired-LPS-FFs collected from 15 reduced ovarian reserve and advanced maternal age women undergoing DuoStim (n = 30 paired samples). The samples were combined in 6 paired pools (5 samples each) and balanced according to maternal age and number of cumulus-oocyte-complexes. Micro-RNAs were isolated and sequenced. Four miRNAs were then selected for further validation on 6 single pairs of FPS-FFs and LPS-FFs by qPCR. RESULTS Forty-three miRNAs were detected in both FPS-FFs and paired-LPS-FFs after sequencing and no statistically significant differences were reported. Thirty-three KEGG pathways were identified as regulated from the detected miRNAs. Four miRNAs (miR-146b, miR-191, miR-320a, and miR-483) were selected for qPCR validation since consistently expressed in our samples and possibly involved in the regulation/establishment of a healthy follicular environment. Again, no significant differences were reported between FPS-FFs and paired-LPS-FFs, also when the analysis was corrected for maternal age and number of cumulus-oocyte-complexes in generalized linear models. CONCLUSIONS These data complement the embryological, chromosomal, and clinical evidence of equivalence between FPS and LPS published to date.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danilo Cimadomo
- GENERA centers for reproductive medicine, Clinica Valle Giulia, Rome, Italy.,GENERA centers for reproductive medicine, Clinica Ruesch, Naples, Italy
| | - Ramona Carmelo
- GENERA centers for reproductive medicine, Clinica Ruesch, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Stefania Scalise
- Università degli Studi Magna Graecia di Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | | | - Erminia Alviggi
- GENERA centers for reproductive medicine, Clinica Ruesch, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Gianmarco Sarro
- Università degli Studi Magna Graecia di Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Alberto Vaiarelli
- GENERA centers for reproductive medicine, Clinica Valle Giulia, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Laura Rienzi
- GENERA centers for reproductive medicine, Clinica Valle Giulia, Rome, Italy.,GENERA centers for reproductive medicine, Clinica Ruesch, Naples, Italy
| | - Fulvio Zullo
- Università degli Studi Magna Graecia di Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | | | - Giovanni Cuda
- Università degli Studi Magna Graecia di Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
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