1
|
Meinecke B, Meinecke-Tillmann S. Lab partners: oocytes, embryos and company. A personal view on aspects of oocyte maturation and the development of monozygotic twins. Anim Reprod 2023; 20:e20230049. [PMID: 37547564 PMCID: PMC10399133 DOI: 10.1590/1984-3143-ar2023-0049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The present review addresses the oocyte and the preimplantation embryo, and is intended to highlight the underlying principle of the "nature versus/and nurture" question. Given the diversity in mammalian oocyte maturation, this review will not be comprehensive but instead will focus on the porcine oocyte. Historically, oogenesis was seen as the development of a passive cell nursed and determined by its somatic compartment. Currently, the advanced analysis of the cross-talk between the maternal environment and the oocyte shows a more balanced relationship: Granulosa cells nurse the oocyte, whereas the latter secretes diffusible factors that regulate proliferation and differentiation of the granulosa cells. Signal molecules of the granulosa cells either prevent the precocious initiation of meiotic maturation or enable oocyte maturation following hormonal stimulation. A similar question emerges in research on monozygotic twins or multiples: In Greek and medieval times, twins were not seen as the result of the common course of nature but were classified as faults. This seems still valid today for the rare and until now mainly unknown genesis of facultative monozygotic twins in mammals. Monozygotic twins are unique subjects for studies of the conceptus-maternal dialogue, the intra-pair similarity and dissimilarity, and the elucidation of the interplay between nature and nurture. In the course of in vivo collections of preimplantation sheep embryos and experiments on embryo splitting and other microsurgical interventions we recorded observations on double blastocysts within a single zona pellucida, double inner cell masses in zona-enclosed blastocysts and double germinal discs in elongating embryos. On the basis of these observations we add some pieces to the puzzle of the post-zygotic genesis of monozygotic twins and on maternal influences on the developing conceptus.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Burkhard Meinecke
- Institut für Reproduktionsbiologie, Tierärztliche Hochschule Hannover, Hanover, Germany
- Ambulatorische und Geburtshilfliche Veterinärklinik, Justus-Liebig-Universität Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Sabine Meinecke-Tillmann
- Institut für Reproduktionsbiologie, Tierärztliche Hochschule Hannover, Hanover, Germany
- Institut für Tierzucht und Haustiergenetik, Justus-Liebig-Universität Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Distinct dynamics of lipid accumulation by porcine cumulus cells during in vitro maturation with follicular fluid of low and high fatty acid contents. Theriogenology 2023; 195:93-102. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2022.10.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Revised: 08/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
|
3
|
Nagashima JB, Hill AM, Songsasen N. In vitro development of mechanically and enzymatically isolated cat ovarian follicles. REPRODUCTION AND FERTILITY 2021; 2:35-46. [PMID: 34734187 PMCID: PMC8562102 DOI: 10.1530/raf-20-0067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer B Nagashima
- Centerfor Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Front Royal, Virginia, USA
| | - Andrea M Hill
- Centerfor Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Front Royal, Virginia, USA
| | - Nucharin Songsasen
- Centerfor Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Front Royal, Virginia, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Pollard CL, Gibb Z, Hawdon A, Swegen A, Grupen CG. Supplementing media with NAD + precursors enhances the in vitro maturation of porcine oocytes. J Reprod Dev 2021; 67:319-326. [PMID: 34408103 PMCID: PMC8568614 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2021-080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
In vitro maturation (IVM) is an important reproductive technology used to produce embryos in vitro. However, the developmental potential of oocytes sourced
for IVM is markedly lower than those matured in vivo. Previously, NAD+-elevating treatments have improved oocyte quality and embryo development in cattle and
mice, suggesting that NAD+ is important during oocyte maturation. The aim of this study was to examine the effects of nicotinic acid (NA), nicotinamide (NAM) and nicotinamide
mononucleotide (NMN) on oocyte maturation and subsequent embryo development. Porcine oocytes from small antral follicles were matured for 44 h in a defined maturation medium supplemented
with NA, NAM and resveratrol or NMN. Mature oocytes were artificially activated and presumptive zygotes cultured for 7 days. Additionally, oocytes were matured without treatment then
cultured for 7 days with NMN. Supplementing the IVM medium with NA improved maturation and blastocyst formation while NAM supplementation improved cleavage rates compared with untreated
controls. Supplementing the IVM or embryo culture media with NMN had no effect on maturation or embryo development. The results show that supplementing the maturation medium with NA and NAM
improved maturation and developmental potential of porcine oocytes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Charley-Lea Pollard
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, NSW 2570, Australia
| | - Zamira Gibb
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, University of Newcastle, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Azelle Hawdon
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, NSW 2570, Australia.,Present: Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Aleona Swegen
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, University of Newcastle, NSW 2308, Australia.,Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Christopher G Grupen
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, NSW 2570, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Kim E, Cai L, Hyun SH. Effects of Stem Cell Factor/c-Kit Signaling on In Vitro Maturation of Porcine Oocytes and Subsequent Developmental Competence After Fertilization. Front Vet Sci 2021; 8:745488. [PMID: 34692812 PMCID: PMC8531509 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.745488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Stem cell factor (SCF), also known as c-Kit ligand, plays an important role in the proliferation of primordial germ cells and the survival of oocytes during follicular development. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of SCF/c-Kit signaling on in vitro maturation (IVM) of porcine oocytes by analyzing nuclear and cytoplasmic maturation, oocyte size, cumulus cell expansion, and developmental competence to the blastocyst stage. Moreover, mRNA expression patterns of porcine cumulus cells and oocytes were evaluated using qRT-PCR. Following 42 h of IVM, 10 and 50 ng/mL SCF-treated groups exhibited significantly (P < 0.05) increased polar body extrusion rates and intracellular glutathione levels compared with the control group. The cumulus expansion index significantly (P < 0.05) increased in all SCF-treated groups compared with the control samples. mRNA levels of the proapoptotic gene Bax and apoptosis-related cysteine peptidase Caspase3 were lower in SCF-treated cumulus cells than in the control group. Notably, the diameter of oocytes after IVM, the mRNA expression of well-known oocyte-secreted factors (GDF9 and BMP15), and an oocyte-specific protein essential for ovulation and oocyte health (YBX2) were significantly (P < 0.05) higher in SCF-treated than in non-treated oocytes. Inhibition of c-Kit during porcine IVM using ACK2, an antagonistic blocker of c-Kit, significantly (P < 0.05) decreased the polar body extrusion rate compared with the control, as well as blastocyst formation rate compared with the 10 ng/mL SCF-treated group. In conclusion, the effect of SCF/c-Kit-mediated signaling during porcine IVM could be ascribed to the reduced expression of apoptosis-related genes and higher expression of oocyte-specific/secreted factors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eunhye Kim
- Laboratory of Veterinary Embryology and Biotechnology, Veterinary Medical Center and College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, South Korea.,Graduate School of Veterinary Biosecurity and Protection, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, South Korea
| | - Lian Cai
- Laboratory of Veterinary Embryology and Biotechnology, Veterinary Medical Center and College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, South Korea.,Graduate School of Veterinary Biosecurity and Protection, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, South Korea
| | - Sang-Hwan Hyun
- Laboratory of Veterinary Embryology and Biotechnology, Veterinary Medical Center and College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, South Korea.,Graduate School of Veterinary Biosecurity and Protection, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, South Korea
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Current JZ, Whitaker BD. Effects of glucuronic acid and N-acetyl-D-glucosamine supplementation on the perivitelline space during the IVM of pig oocytes. Reprod Fertil Dev 2021; 32:941-947. [PMID: 32586424 DOI: 10.1071/rd20109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2020] [Accepted: 05/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The objective of this study was to minimise polyspermic penetration by increasing the perivitelline space (PVS) thickness through supplementation of the hyaluronic acid components glucuronic acid and N-acetyl-d-glucosamine (GlcNAc). Oocytes (n=4690) were supplemented during the first 24h and/or the remainder of maturation (final 16-18h) with 0.01mM glucuronic acid and 0.01mM GlcNAc and then evaluated for PVS thickness, hyaluronic acid, glutathione and glutathione peroxidase concentrations. Fertilised oocytes were evaluated for polyspermic penetration and embryo development. The PVS thickness and amount of hyaluronic acid was significantly (P<0.05) greater in oocytes supplemented with 0.01mM glucuronic acid and 0.01mM GlcNAc during the second part or all of maturation compared with the other treatments. In addition, polyspermic penetration was significantly (P<0.05) less in oocytes supplemented with 0.01mM glucuronic acid and 0.01mM GlcNAc during the second part or all of maturation compared with the other treatments. Supplementing 0.01mM glucuronic acid and GlcNAc during maturation significantly (P<0.05) increased the percentage of cleaved embryos by 48h after IVF and blastocysts formed by 144h after IVF compared those not supplemented. These results indicate that supplementing PVS components during maturation decreases polyspermic penetration by increasing PVS thickness.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J Z Current
- Department of Animal and Pre-veterinary Studies, University of Findlay, 1000 N. Main Street, Findlay, OH 45840, USA
| | - B D Whitaker
- Department of Animal and Pre-veterinary Studies, University of Findlay, 1000 N. Main Street, Findlay, OH 45840, USA; and Corresponding author.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Chen HL, Cheng JY, Yang YF, Li Y, Jiang XH, Yang L, Wu L, Shi M, Liu B, Duan J, Li X, Li QW. Phospholipase C inhibits apoptosis of porcine oocytes cultured in vitro. J Cell Biochem 2020; 121:3547-3559. [DOI: 10.1002/jcb.29636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2019] [Accepted: 12/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Hua Li Chen
- College of Animal Science and TechnologyNorthwest A&F UniversityYangling Shaanxi China
| | - Jian Yong Cheng
- College of Animal Science and TechnologyNorthwest A&F UniversityYangling Shaanxi China
| | - You Fu Yang
- College of Animal Science and TechnologyNorthwest A&F UniversityYangling Shaanxi China
| | - Yuan Li
- College of Animal Science and TechnologyNorthwest A&F UniversityYangling Shaanxi China
| | - Xiao Han Jiang
- College of Animal Science and TechnologyNorthwest A&F UniversityYangling Shaanxi China
| | - Li Yang
- College of Animal Science and TechnologyNorthwest A&F UniversityYangling Shaanxi China
| | - Lin Wu
- College of Animal Science and TechnologyNorthwest A&F UniversityYangling Shaanxi China
| | - Meihong Shi
- College of Animal Science and TechnologyNorthwest A&F UniversityYangling Shaanxi China
| | - Boyang Liu
- College of Animal Science and TechnologyNorthwest A&F UniversityYangling Shaanxi China
| | - Jiaxin Duan
- College of Animal Science and TechnologyNorthwest A&F UniversityYangling Shaanxi China
| | - Xiaoya Li
- College of Animal Science and TechnologyNorthwest A&F UniversityYangling Shaanxi China
| | - Qing Wang Li
- College of Animal Science and TechnologyNorthwest A&F UniversityYangling Shaanxi China
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Lowe JL, Bathgate R, Grupen CG. Effect of carbohydrates on lipid metabolism during porcine oocyte IVM. Reprod Fertil Dev 2019; 31:557-569. [PMID: 31039975 DOI: 10.1071/rd18043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2018] [Accepted: 09/12/2018] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Porcine oocytes contain a large amount of endogenous lipid, which is thought to function as an intracellular source of energy. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of stimulating or inhibiting lipid metabolism using l-carnitine or etomoxir respectively on the IVM of porcine oocytes cultured in media of varying carbohydrate composition. In the presence of pyruvate and lactate, exclusion of glucose inhibited oocyte nuclear and cytoplasmic maturation compared with oocytes matured in media containing low (1.5mM) and high (4.0mM) concentrations of glucose. In the absence of pyruvate and lactate in low-glucose medium only, a greater proportion of l-carnitine-treated oocytes progressed to the MII stage compared with untreated oocytes. The inclusion of pyruvate and lactate significantly altered the distribution of cytoplasmic lipid droplets and elevated the ATP content of oocytes, whereas the l-carnitine treatment did not. Further, the inhibitory effect of etomoxir on nuclear maturation was decreased in high- compared with low-glucose medium. The results indicate that carbohydrate substrates are absolutely necessary for effective porcine oocyte maturation, and that l-carnitine supplementation can only partially compensate for deficiencies in carbohydrate provision.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jenna L Lowe
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, 425 Werombi Road, Camden, NSW 2570, Australia
| | - Roslyn Bathgate
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, 425 Werombi Road, Camden, NSW 2570, Australia
| | - Christopher G Grupen
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, 425 Werombi Road, Camden, NSW 2570, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Pawlak P, Warzych E, Cieslak A, Malyszka N, Maciejewska E, Madeja ZE, Lechniak D. The consequences of porcine IVM medium supplementation with follicular fluid become reflected in embryo quality, yield and gene expression patterns. Sci Rep 2018; 8:15306. [PMID: 30333518 PMCID: PMC6193000 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-33550-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2018] [Accepted: 10/01/2018] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Oocyte and embryo developmental competence are shaped by multiple extrinsic and intrinsic factors. One of the most extensive research areas in the last decade is the regulation of lipid metabolism in oocytes and embryos of different species. We hypothesized that differences in developmental competence of oocytes and embryos between prepubertal and cyclic gilts may arise due to distinct fatty acid profiles in follicular fluid. We found that supplementation of oocyte maturation media with follicular fluid from prepubertal pigs affected quality and development of embryos from prepubertal pigs while embryos of cyclic pigs were not affected. PLIN2, SCD and ACACA transcripts involved in lipid metabolism were upregulated in embryos originating from oocytes of prepubertal pigs matured with autologous follicular fluid. The surface occupied by lipid droplets tend to increase in oocytes matured with follicular fluid from prepubertal pigs regardless oocyte origin. The change into follicular fluid of cyclic pigs increased the efficiency of embryo culture and improved quality, while gene expression was similar to embryos obtained from cyclic gilts. We assume that the follicular fluids of prepubertal and cyclic pigs influenced the quality of oocytes and embryos obtained from prepubertal pigs which are more susceptible to suboptimal in vitro culture conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Piotr Pawlak
- Department of Genetics and Animal Breeding, Poznan University of Life Sciences, Wolynska 33, 60-637, Poznan, Poland.
| | - Ewelina Warzych
- Department of Genetics and Animal Breeding, Poznan University of Life Sciences, Wolynska 33, 60-637, Poznan, Poland
| | - Adam Cieslak
- Department of Animal Nutrition, Poznan University of Life Sciences, Wolynska 33, 60-637, Poznan, Poland
| | - Natalia Malyszka
- Department of Genetics and Animal Breeding, Poznan University of Life Sciences, Wolynska 33, 60-637, Poznan, Poland
| | - Eliza Maciejewska
- Department of Genetics and Animal Breeding, Poznan University of Life Sciences, Wolynska 33, 60-637, Poznan, Poland
| | - Zofia Eliza Madeja
- Department of Genetics and Animal Breeding, Poznan University of Life Sciences, Wolynska 33, 60-637, Poznan, Poland
| | - Dorota Lechniak
- Department of Genetics and Animal Breeding, Poznan University of Life Sciences, Wolynska 33, 60-637, Poznan, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Gethöffer F, Pfarrer C, Siebert U. Histology confirms that macroscopic evaluation of ovaries is a valid method for the assessment of the reproductive status in wild boar. Theriogenology 2018; 113:192-196. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2018.02.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2017] [Revised: 02/12/2018] [Accepted: 02/23/2018] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
|
11
|
Pedersen HS, Callesen H, Løvendahl P, Chen F, Nyengaard JR, Nikolaisen NK, Holm P, Hyttel P. Ultrastructure and mitochondrial numbers in pre- and postpubertal pig oocytes. Reprod Fertil Dev 2017; 28:586-98. [PMID: 25482576 DOI: 10.1071/rd14220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2014] [Accepted: 08/19/2014] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Prepubertal pig oocytes are associated with lower developmental competence. The aim of this experiment was to conduct an exhaustive survey of oocyte ultrastructure and to use a design-unbiased stereological approach to quantify the numerical density and total number of mitochondria in oocytes with different diameters from pre- and postpubertal pigs. The ultrastructure of smaller prepubertal immature oocytes indicated active cells in close contact with cumulus cells. The postpubertal oocytes were more quiescent cell types. The small prepubertal oocytes had a lower total mitochondrial number, but no differences were observed in mitochondrial densities between groups. Mature postpubertal oocytes adhered to the following characteristics: presence of metaphase II, lack of contact between cumulus cells and oocyte, absence of rough endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi complexes, peripheral location of cortical granules and central localisation of mitochondria, vesicles and lipid droplets. Prepubertal oocytes displayed more variation. The ultrastructure of large pre- and postpubertal oocytes was compatible with higher developmental competence, whereas that of smaller prepubertal oocytes could explain their reduced capacity. The higher number of mitochondria in large pre- and postpubertal oocytes could have an influence on oocyte competence, by increasing the pool of mitochondria available for early embryonic development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Henrik Callesen
- Department of Animal Science, Aarhus University, Blichers Allé 20, DK-8830 Tjele, Denmark
| | - Peter Løvendahl
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Aarhus University, Blichers Allé 20, DK-8830 Tjele, Denmark
| | - Fenghua Chen
- Stereology and Electron Microscopy Laboratory, Centre for Stochastic Geometry and Advanced Bioimaging, Aarhus University, Nørrebrogade 44, DK-8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Jens Randel Nyengaard
- Stereology and Electron Microscopy Laboratory, Centre for Stochastic Geometry and Advanced Bioimaging, Aarhus University, Nørrebrogade 44, DK-8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Nanett Kvist Nikolaisen
- Department of Veterinary Clinical and Animal Science, University of Copenhagen, Dyrlægevej 16, DK-1870 Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - Peter Holm
- Department of Veterinary Clinical and Animal Science, University of Copenhagen, Dyrlægevej 16, DK-1870 Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - Poul Hyttel
- Department of Veterinary Clinical and Animal Science, University of Copenhagen, Dyrlægevej 16, DK-1870 Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Lee H, Elahi F, Lee J, Lee ST, Hyun SH, Lee E. Supplement of cilostamide in growth medium improves oocyte maturation and developmental competence of embryos derived from small antral follicles in pigs. Theriogenology 2017; 91:1-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2016.12.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2016] [Revised: 11/09/2016] [Accepted: 12/13/2016] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
|
13
|
Yang M, Hall J, Fan Z, Regouski M, Meng Q, Rutigliano HM, Stott R, Rood KA, Panter KE, Polejaeva IA. Oocytes from small and large follicles exhibit similar development competence following goat cloning despite their differences in meiotic and cytoplasmic maturation. Theriogenology 2016; 86:2302-2311. [PMID: 27650944 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2016.07.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2016] [Revised: 07/19/2016] [Accepted: 07/25/2016] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Reduced developmental competence after IVF has been reported using oocyte derived from small follicles in several species including cattle, sheep, and goats. No information is currently available about the effect of follicle size of the cytoplast donor on in vivo development after somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) in goats. Oocytes collected from large (≥3 mm) and small follicles (<3 mm) were examined for maturation and in vivo developmental competence after SCNT. Significantly greater maturation rate was observed in oocytes derived from large follicles compared with that of small follicles (51.6% and 33.7%, P < 0.05). Greater percent of large follicle oocytes exhibited a low glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase activity at germinal vesicle stage compared with small follicle oocytes (54.9% and 38.7%, P < 0.05). Relative mRNA expression analysis of 48 genes associated with embryonic and fetal development revealed that three genes (MATER, IGF2R, and GRB10) had higher level of expression in metaphase II oocytes from large follicles compared with oocytes from small follicles. Nevertheless, no difference was observed in pregnancy rates (33.3% vs. 47.1%) and birth rates (22.2% vs. 16.7%) after SCNT between the large and small follicle groups). These results indicate that metaphase II cytoplasts from small and large follicles have similar developmental competence when used in goat SCNT.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Min Yang
- Department of Animal, Dairy, and Veterinary Sciences, Utah State University, Logan, Utah, USA
| | - Justin Hall
- Department of Animal, Dairy, and Veterinary Sciences, Utah State University, Logan, Utah, USA
| | - Zhiqiang Fan
- Department of Animal, Dairy, and Veterinary Sciences, Utah State University, Logan, Utah, USA
| | - Misha Regouski
- Department of Animal, Dairy, and Veterinary Sciences, Utah State University, Logan, Utah, USA
| | - Qinggang Meng
- Department of Animal, Dairy, and Veterinary Sciences, Utah State University, Logan, Utah, USA
| | - Heloisa M Rutigliano
- Department of Animal, Dairy, and Veterinary Sciences, Utah State University, Logan, Utah, USA; School of Veterinary Medicine, Utah State University, Logan, Utah, USA
| | - Rusty Stott
- Department of Animal, Dairy, and Veterinary Sciences, Utah State University, Logan, Utah, USA; School of Veterinary Medicine, Utah State University, Logan, Utah, USA
| | - Kerry A Rood
- Department of Animal, Dairy, and Veterinary Sciences, Utah State University, Logan, Utah, USA; School of Veterinary Medicine, Utah State University, Logan, Utah, USA
| | - Kip E Panter
- USDA ARS Poisonous Plant Research Laboratory, Logan, Utah, USA
| | - Irina A Polejaeva
- Department of Animal, Dairy, and Veterinary Sciences, Utah State University, Logan, Utah, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Metabolic and reproductive parameters in prepubertal gilts after omega-3 supplementation in the diet. Anim Reprod Sci 2016; 170:178-83. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2016.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2015] [Revised: 04/15/2016] [Accepted: 05/12/2016] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
|
15
|
Pawlak P, Chabowska A, Malyszka N, Lechniak D. Mitochondria and mitochondrial DNA in porcine oocytes and cumulus cells — A search for developmental competence marker. Mitochondrion 2016; 27:48-55. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mito.2015.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2015] [Revised: 11/30/2015] [Accepted: 12/14/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
|
16
|
The effect of the MC4R gene on boar taint compounds, sexual maturity and behaviour in growing-finishing boars and gilts. Animal 2015; 9:1688-97. [PMID: 26155873 DOI: 10.1017/s1751731115001135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Societal pressure to ban surgical castration of male piglets is rising due to animal welfare concerns, thus other methods to prevent boar taint need to be explored. Genetic selection against boar taint appears to be a long-term sustainable alternative. However, as boar taint is linked to reproductive hormones, it is important to consider possible negative side effects such as delayed sexual maturity or changes in behaviour. We reported earlier that the melanocortin-4 receptor (MC4R) marker can be used to reduce boar taint levels in fat of boars. The objective of this study was to evaluate whether MC4R marker-assisted selection for lower boar taint prevalence affects plasma levels of boar taint compounds and testosterone; sexual maturity; behaviour; skin lesions; and lameness in boars and gilts. Using an intervention study with a 2×2 design, 264 boars and gilts differing on position 893 of the MC4R gene (AA v. GG) were compared. The MC4R polymorphism did not affect the plasma concentration of either androstenone or testosterone at different time points, whereas the concentration of skatole was significantly lower (P=0.003) and the concentration of indole tended to be lower (P=0.074) in GG compared with AA boars. A higher percentage of gilts of the GG genotype were in puberty at slaughter age compared with AA gilts (P<0.001). The age of the boars at sexual maturity (as indicated by the first positive preputial smear test) did not differ between AA and GG boars. In contrast, weight of GG boars at sexual maturity tended to be lower (P=0.065). During the period from 6 weeks of age to slaughter, boars and gilts of the GG genotype showed more playing behaviour (P=0.015) and less passive and feeding behaviour (P=0.003). They showed more skin lesions on their back and caudal area (P=0.022), and tended to show more skin lesions on their head and anterior area (P=0.093) compared with AA animals. In conclusion, the polymorphism in the MC4R gene can be used as a marker without negative effects on reproduction characteristics in boars and gilts. Genetic selection towards a lower prevalence of boar taint will lead to more active pigs with more skin lesions. Management strategies may therefore be necessary to reduce skin lesions in the selected animals.
Collapse
|
17
|
Pedersen HS, Liu Y, Li R, Purup S, Løvendahl P, Holm P, Hyttel P, Callesen H. Selection of pre- versus postpubertal pig oocytes for parthenogenetic activation and somatic cell nuclear transfer. Reprod Fertil Dev 2015; 27:544-50. [DOI: 10.1071/rd13283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2013] [Accepted: 01/10/2014] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Pig oocytes have been used increasingly for in vitro production techniques in recent years. The slaughterhouse-derived oocytes that are often used are mostly of prepubertal origin. The aims of the present study were to compare the developmental competence between pre- and postpubertal pig oocytes, and to develop a simple and practical method for the selection of prepubertal pig oocytes for parthenogenetic activation (PA) and somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) based on oocyte morphology after IVM and oocyte inside zona pellucida (ZP) diameter (‘small’ ≤110 µm; ‘medium’ >110 µm; ‘large’ ≥120 µm). Meiotic competence and blastocyst rates after PA and SCNT of prepubertal oocytes increased with oocyte size, with the large prepubertal oocytes reaching a level similar to postpubertal oocytes after SCNT. Blastocyst cell number was not related to oocyte inside ZP diameter and oocyte donor to the same extent as blastocyst rate. Very low blastocyst rates were obtained after PA of morphologically bad pre- and postpubertal oocytes. In conclusion, measurement of inside ZP diameter combined with morphological selection is useful to remove incompetent oocytes. Further studies are needed to clarify the relative importance of cytoplasmic volume and stage in oocyte growth phase.
Collapse
|
18
|
The effects of season and moderate nutritional restriction on ovarian function and oocyte nuclear maturation in cycling gilts. Theriogenology 2014; 82:1303-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2014.08.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2014] [Revised: 08/20/2014] [Accepted: 08/27/2014] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
|
19
|
Grupen CG. The evolution of porcine embryo in vitro production. Theriogenology 2014; 81:24-37. [PMID: 24274407 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2013.09.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2013] [Revised: 09/14/2013] [Accepted: 09/14/2013] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The in vitro production of porcine embryos has presented numerous challenges to researchers over the past four decades. Some of the problems encountered were specific to porcine gametes and embryos and needed the concerted efforts of many to overcome. Gradually, porcine embryo in vitro production systems became more reliable and acceptable rates of blastocyst formation were achieved. Despite the significant improvements, the problem of polyspermic fertilization has still not been adequately resolved and the embryo in vitro culture conditions are still considered to be suboptimal. Whereas early studies focused on increasing our understanding of the reproductive processes involved, the technology evolved to the point where in vitro-matured oocytes and in vitro-produced embryos could be used as research material for developing associated reproductive technologies, such as SCNT and embryo cryopreservation. Today, the in vitro procedures used to mature oocytes and culture embryos are integral to the production of transgenic pigs by SCNT. This review discusses the major achievements, advances, and knowledge gained from porcine embryo in vitro production studies and highlights the future research perspectives of this important technology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christopher G Grupen
- Faculty of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, Camden, New South Wales, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Oberlender G, Pontelo TP, Miranda JR, Miranda DR, Zangeronimo MG, Silva AC, Menezes TA, Rocha LGP. Morphological and morphometric evaluation of prepubertal gilt ovaries, uterine tubes and uterus at different oestrus cycle stages. PESQUISA VETERINARIA BRASILEIRA 2014. [DOI: 10.1590/s0100-736x2014000100014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Studies are performed in developing techniques/procedures that provide greater reproductive performance in farm animals, including pigs. In this sense, the study of gilts reproductive organs at different oestrus cycle stages for assessing the presence of abnormalities and/or other parameters that may affect the future animal fertility is important. In order to evaluate the morphological, morphometric and histomorphometric features of ovaries, uterus and uterine tubes (UTs) characteristics of prepubertal gilts at different oestrus cycle stages, reproductive tracts from 48 animals immediately after slaughter were obtained. After, the structures were dissected and removed, and the ovaries were used for classification of oestrus cycle stage of each gilt in follicular phase (FP) and luteal phase (FL). Then, morphometric evaluations of ovaries, UTs, uterine horns and uterine body were performed. Besides that, medial segments of UTs and uterus were fixed in Bouin solution, processed and included in paraffin, when histological sections of 5.0 micrometers (µm) were obtained and stained with Hematoxylin and Eosin. Histomorphometric analyzes using image capture system and specific software were performed. Afterwards, data were submitted to Student's t test for assessment the statistical differences (P<0.05) between the two different oestrus cycle stages (FP × LP) and between the placement of reproductive structures (right × left antimer). Among the gilts evaluated, 35 were in the FP and 13 in LP. There was no difference (P>0.05) between morphometric parameters of ovaries, UTs and uterus of gilts in FP and LP. Likewise, in respect to the placement of reproductive structures, both in the oestrus cycle stages, as in the general average, there was no difference (P>0.05). Regarding the histomorphometric variables, gilts classified in FP presented a higher (P<0.05) height of glandular and UT epithelium compared to animals in LP. On the other hand, the diameter of endometrial glands was higher (P<0.05) in gilts at LP compared to FP. Furthermore, gilts in LP presented a higher (P<0.05) proportion of endometrium occupied by glands, whereas animals in FP had a higher (P<0.05) proportion of connective tissue and blood vessels. In conclusion, in prepubertal gilts, the histomorphometric parameters as endometrial glands diameter, the height of glandular epithelium and of UT epithelium and the proportion of endometrium occupied by connective tissue, besides the glands and blood vessels varies through the oestrus cycle, possibly under the influence of ovarian steroids.
Collapse
|
21
|
Moreira F, Corcini C, Mondadori R, Gevehr-Fernandes C, Mendes F, Araújo E, Lucia T. Leptin and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) in oocytes of sows and gilts. Anim Reprod Sci 2013; 139:89-94. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2013.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2012] [Revised: 03/15/2013] [Accepted: 03/21/2013] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
|
22
|
Oberlender G, Murgas LDS, Zangeronimo MG, da Silva AC, Menezes TDA, Pontelo TP, Vieira LA. Role of insulin-like growth factor-I and follicular fluid from ovarian follicles with different diameters on porcine oocyte maturation and fertilization in vitro. Theriogenology 2013; 80:319-27. [PMID: 23683690 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2013.04.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2013] [Revised: 04/15/2013] [Accepted: 04/21/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to determine the effects of insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) (0, 60, 120, 180, and 240 ng/mL) and follicular fluid (FF) derived from 2 to 5 and 6 to 10 mm diameter follicles (SpFFs and LpFFs, respectively) added during in vitro maturation (IVM) of porcine oocytes on nuclear maturation and IVF. Cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) were matured in NCSU-37 medium supplemented with SpFFs or LpFFs and various IGF-I concentrations. The COCs were cultured for 44 hours, and then fertilized in vitro. Maturation and IVF results were recorded 18 hours after insemination. The IVM (%) was higher (P < 0.05) in the COCs matured in LpFFs than with SpFFs when 0 (90.0 ± 6.9 vs. 76.3 ± 10.7) or 60 ng/mL IGF-I (92.0 ± 8.1 vs. 81.8 ± 10.2) was added. In SpFFs media, there was a quadratic relationship (P < 0.01) between IGF-I concentration and IVM (peak results at IGF-I = 129 ng/mL). However, when the COCs were matured with LpFFs, there was a decreasing linear effect between IGF-I concentration and IVM. At all concentrations of IGF-I, the percentage of degenerated oocytes was higher in COCs matured in SpFFs than in LpFFs. Penetration (%) did not differ (P > 0.05) between COCs matured with SpFFs or LpFFs when 60 (66.8 ± 9.4 vs. 72.7 ± 11.3) or 180 ng/mL of IGF-I (75.7 ± 10.4 vs. 73.8 ± 13.2) were used. Monospermy (%) was similar between SpFFs and LpFFs only with addition of 120 ng/mL IGF-I. The IVF performance (%) did not differ between COCs matured with SpFFs or LpFFs when IGF-I concentrations of 120 (28.5 ± 8.8 vs. 38.5 ± 8.3) and 180 ng/mL (24.3 ± 10.2 vs. 30.12 ± 8.2) were used. There was no effect of IGF-I concentration or of FF type on the number of penetrated sperm per oocyte and on male pronuclear formation. For COCs matured with SpFFs, there was a quadratic relationship between IGF-I concentration and penetration, monospermy, and IVF performance (peak results at IGF-I = 179, 122, and 135 ng/mL, respectively). Thus, on the basis of the observed quadratic relationships, we inferred that when using SpFFs, the addition of IGF-I (122-179 ng/mL) to the IVM medium produced results similar to those obtained with LpFFs without adding IGF-I. In conclusion, the addition of IGF-I to the IVM medium supplemented with SpFFs increased maturation and improved IVF results. Alternatively, IGF-I had no effect on IVM or IVF when used with LpFFs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guilherme Oberlender
- Division of Physiology and Pharmacology, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Lavras, University Campus, Lavras, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Pawlak P, Cieslak A, Warzych E, Zejden Z, Szumacher-Strabel M, Molinska-Glura M, Lechniak D. No single way to explain cytoplasmic maturation of oocytes from prepubertal and cyclic gilts. Theriogenology 2012; 78:2020-30. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2012.07.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2012] [Revised: 07/24/2012] [Accepted: 07/27/2012] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
|
24
|
|
25
|
Pawlak P, Pers-Kamczyc E, Renska N, Kubickova S, Lechniak D. Disturbances of nuclear maturation in BCB positive oocytes collected from peri-pubertal gilts. Theriogenology 2011; 75:832-40. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2010.10.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2010] [Revised: 09/30/2010] [Accepted: 10/13/2010] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
|
26
|
Hulinska P, Martecikova S, Jeseta M, Machatkova M. Efficiency of in vitro fertilization is influenced by the meiotic competence of porcine oocytes and time of their maturation. Anim Reprod Sci 2011; 124:112-7. [PMID: 21388757 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2011.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2010] [Revised: 01/05/2011] [Accepted: 02/01/2011] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The effect of meiotic competence of oocytes and time of their maturation on the efficiency of fertilization was studied in pigs. Cycling gilts with synchronized estrous cycles were used as oocyte donors. To obtain oocytes with different meiotic competence, oocytes were recovered separately from small and medium follicles in the early, middle and late luteal or early follicular phase. They were matured for 40 h, 43 h or 47 h and fertilized by spermatozoa of a proven boar. The penetration and monospermy rates, and total efficiency of fertilization were assessed. The same data were related to the follicle size, with or without regard to the phase, and to the maturation time. Regardless of the phase and the time of maturation, the monospermy rate and total efficiency of fertilization were significantly lower for the small follicle-derived oocytes than for the medium follicle-derived oocytes (38.5±10.4% vs 63.1±7.0% and 24.7±6.3% vs 42.5±3.8%). With regard to the phase, in the small follicle-derived oocytes, the monospermy rate increased significantly (P<0.05) from the early luteal to the late luteal phase (from 25.4±2.4% to 46.4±3.9%) and remained unchanged in the early follicular phase. A similar tendency was observed in the total efficiency of fertilization. No differences were found in either of these parameters in medium follicle-derived oocytes in the late luteal and early follicular phase. With regard to the time of maturation, the total efficiency of fertilization was significantly higher (P<0.05) in the small follicle-derived oocytes matured for 47 h than in those matured for 40 h (27.7±7.4% vs. 20.5±6.1%) and in the medium follicle-derived oocytes matured for 40 h as compared with those matured for 47 h (47.1±1.9% vs. 32.7±1.1%). With regard to the phase and the time of maturation, the differences were significant only in the late luteal and early follicular phases. It can be concluded that greater meiotic competence of porcine oocytes positively influences monospermy rate and total efficiency of fertilization process. However adequate time of maturation is an important factor for oocytes with different meiotic competence to improve the IVF procedure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- P Hulinska
- Department of Genetics and Reproduction, Veterinary Research Institute, 621 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
27
|
Kim J, You J, Hyun SH, Lee G, Lim J, Lee E. Developmental competence of morphologically poor oocytes in relation to follicular size and oocyte diameter in the pig. Mol Reprod Dev 2009; 77:330-9. [DOI: 10.1002/mrd.21148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
|
28
|
Roulin A. Melanin-based coloration covaries with ovary size in an age-specific manner in the barn owl. Naturwissenschaften 2009; 96:1177-84. [PMID: 19575175 DOI: 10.1007/s00114-009-0579-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2009] [Revised: 05/18/2009] [Accepted: 05/20/2009] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
While the adaptive function of black eumelanin-based coloration is relatively well known, the function of reddish-brown pheomelanin-based coloration is still unclear. Only a few studies have shown or suggested that the degree of reddish-brownness is associated with predator-prey relationships, reproductive parameters, growth rate and immunity. To gain insight into the physiological correlates of melanin-based coloration, I collected barn owl (Tyto alba) cadavers and examined the covariation between this colour trait and ovary size, an organ that increases in size before reproduction. A relationship is expected because melanin-based coloration often co-varies with sexual activity. The results showed that reddish-brown juveniles had larger ovaries than whiter juveniles particularly in individuals in poor condition and outside the breeding season, while in birds older than 2 years lightly coloured females had larger ovaries than reddish-brown conspecifics. As barn owls become less reddish-brown between the first and second year of age, the present study suggests that reddish-brown pheomelanic and whitish colorations are associated with juvenile- and adult-specific adaptations, respectively.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexandre Roulin
- Department of Ecology and Evolution, Biophore, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland.
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Mlodawska W, Okolski A. Morphological characterization and meiotic competence of oocytes collected from filly ovaries. Theriogenology 2009; 71:1046-53. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2008.11.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2008] [Revised: 11/17/2008] [Accepted: 11/19/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
|
30
|
Gupta MK, Uhm SJ, Lee HT. Sexual maturity and reproductive phase of oocyte donor influence the developmental ability and apoptosis of cloned and parthenogenetic porcine embryos. Anim Reprod Sci 2008; 108:107-21. [PMID: 17869033 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2007.07.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2006] [Revised: 07/20/2007] [Accepted: 07/23/2007] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
This study investigated the influence of the sexual maturity and reproductive phase of oocyte donor on the developmental ability and quality of porcine embryos produced by somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) or parthenogenesis (PA). Blastocyst quality was evaluated in terms of hatching ability, total nuclei number and types of apoptosis. Results revealed that maturation rate was not influenced by the reproductive status of the oocyte donor. However, when subjected to PA or SCNT, embryos derived from sexually mature sow oocytes developed to blastocysts at higher rates and had higher cell number than those derived from immature gilt oocytes (p<0.05). Significant effect of reproductive phase, luteal versus follicular, was also noted with luteal stage oocytes yielding higher (p<0.05) rate of blastocyst formation (PA: 54.3+/-1.3% versus 44.8+/-0.3%; SCNT: 29.4+/-0.2% versus 22.7+/-0.1%). Blastocysts derived from luteal phase oocytes also had higher (p<0.05) hatching ability (PA: 44.2+/-1.1%; SCNT: 39.6+/-4.7%) and cell number (PA: 77.4+/-4.9; SCNT: 54.9+/-2.4) than those derived from follicular phase oocytes (PA: 34.9+/-0.9%, 67.2+/-3.9; SCNT: 34.6+/-2.7%, 47.5+/-2.9). TUNEL assay and Hoechst 33342 staining revealed that percentage of blastocysts showing total apoptosis did not differ among the groups. However, luteal phase oocyte-derived blastocysts had the highest incidence of nuclear fragmentation. Among cloned blastocysts that showed the signs of apoptosis, the highest index of total apoptosis was observed in prepubertal oocyte-derived blastocysts (5.2+/-0.7). Blastocysts derived from luteal phase oocytes showed the lowest TUNEL index (2.0+/-0.5). The present study therefore, indicates that the sexual maturity and reproductive phase of cytoplast donor significantly influences the developmental ability, apoptosis and quality of blastocysts produced by SCNT or PA. Oocytes from sexually mature sows in luteal phase of their reproductive cycle may be better cytoplast recipients for SCNT.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mukesh Kumar Gupta
- Department of Animal Biotechnology, Bio-Organ Research Center, Institute of Biomedical Science and Technology, Konkuk University, 1 Hwayang-dong, Gwangjin-Gu, Seoul 143 701, South Korea
| | | | | |
Collapse
|