1
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Pascua AM, Barbisan G, Nikoloff N, Carranza-Martín AC, Fabra MC, Anchordoquy JP, Balbi M, Giuliodori MJ, Furnus CC, Anchordoquy JM. Effect of estrogen and progesterone on intracellular free zinc and zinc transporter expression in bovine oviduct epithelial cells. Theriogenology 2024; 221:18-24. [PMID: 38521006 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2024.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024]
Abstract
Zinc (Zn) plays essential roles in numerous cellular processes. However, there is limited understanding of Zn homeostasis within the bovine reproductive system. This study investigated the influence of estradiol (E2) and progesterone (P4) on Zn transporter expression and intracellular free Zn levels in bovine oviduct epithelial cells (BOEC). For this purpose, cells were harvested from slaughtered cows and cultured in vitro. Intracellular Zn concentrations were measured using FluoZin-3AM staining, while real-time polymerase chain reaction assessed Zn transporter gene expression and quantification. Overall, our results confirmed the gene expression of all the evaluated Zn transporters (ZIP6, ZIP8, ZIP14, ZnT3, ZnT7 and ZnT9), denoted and the active role of E2 and P4 in intracellular Zn regulation. Our findings suggest an interaction between Zn, E2 and P4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Malen Pascua
- IGEVET - Instituto de Genética Veterinaria "Ing. Fernando N Dulout" (UNLP-CONICET LA PLATA), Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias UNLP, Calles 60 y 118, B1904AMA, La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Gisela Barbisan
- IGEVET - Instituto de Genética Veterinaria "Ing. Fernando N Dulout" (UNLP-CONICET LA PLATA), Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias UNLP, Calles 60 y 118, B1904AMA, La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina; YPF Tecnología (Y-TEC), Av. Del Petróleo S/N entre 129 y 143, CP 1923, Berisso, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Noelia Nikoloff
- IGEVET - Instituto de Genética Veterinaria "Ing. Fernando N Dulout" (UNLP-CONICET LA PLATA), Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias UNLP, Calles 60 y 118, B1904AMA, La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Ana Cristina Carranza-Martín
- IGEVET - Instituto de Genética Veterinaria "Ing. Fernando N Dulout" (UNLP-CONICET LA PLATA), Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias UNLP, Calles 60 y 118, B1904AMA, La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Mariana Carolina Fabra
- IGEVET - Instituto de Genética Veterinaria "Ing. Fernando N Dulout" (UNLP-CONICET LA PLATA), Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias UNLP, Calles 60 y 118, B1904AMA, La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Juan Patricio Anchordoquy
- IGEVET - Instituto de Genética Veterinaria "Ing. Fernando N Dulout" (UNLP-CONICET LA PLATA), Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias UNLP, Calles 60 y 118, B1904AMA, La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Cátedra de Fisiología, FCV-UNLP, Argentina
| | - Marianela Balbi
- IGEVET - Instituto de Genética Veterinaria "Ing. Fernando N Dulout" (UNLP-CONICET LA PLATA), Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias UNLP, Calles 60 y 118, B1904AMA, La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | - Cecilia Cristina Furnus
- IGEVET - Instituto de Genética Veterinaria "Ing. Fernando N Dulout" (UNLP-CONICET LA PLATA), Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias UNLP, Calles 60 y 118, B1904AMA, La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Juan Mateo Anchordoquy
- IGEVET - Instituto de Genética Veterinaria "Ing. Fernando N Dulout" (UNLP-CONICET LA PLATA), Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias UNLP, Calles 60 y 118, B1904AMA, La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Cátedra de Fisiología, FCV-UNLP, Argentina.
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2
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Akizawa H, Lopes EM, Fissore RA. Zn 2+ is essential for Ca 2+ oscillations in mouse eggs. eLife 2023; 12:RP88082. [PMID: 38099643 PMCID: PMC10723796 DOI: 10.7554/elife.88082] [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] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Changes in the intracellular concentration of free calcium (Ca2+) underpin egg activation and initiation of development in animals and plants. In mammals, the Ca2+ release is periodical, known as Ca2+ oscillations, and mediated by the type 1 inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor (IP3R1). Another divalent cation, zinc (Zn2+), increases exponentially during oocyte maturation and is vital for meiotic transitions, arrests, and polyspermy prevention. It is unknown if these pivotal cations interplay during fertilization. Here, using mouse eggs, we showed that basal concentrations of labile Zn2+ are indispensable for sperm-initiated Ca2+ oscillations because Zn2+-deficient conditions induced by cell-permeable chelators abrogated Ca2+ responses evoked by fertilization and other physiological and pharmacological agonists. We also found that chemically or genetically generated eggs with lower levels of labile Zn2+ displayed reduced IP3R1 sensitivity and diminished ER Ca2+ leak despite the stable content of the stores and IP3R1 mass. Resupplying Zn2+ restarted Ca2+ oscillations, but excessive Zn2+ prevented and terminated them, hindering IP3R1 responsiveness. The findings suggest that a window of Zn2+ concentrations is required for Ca2+ responses and IP3R1 function in eggs, ensuring optimal response to fertilization and egg activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroki Akizawa
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Massachusetts AmherstAmherstUnited States
| | - Emily M Lopes
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Massachusetts AmherstAmherstUnited States
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Graduate Program, University of MassachusettsAmherstUnited States
| | - Rafael A Fissore
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Massachusetts AmherstAmherstUnited States
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3
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Gonzalez-Castro RA, Carnevale EM. Phospholipase C Zeta 1 (PLCZ1): The Function and Potential for Fertility Assessment and In Vitro Embryo Production in Cattle and Horses. Vet Sci 2023; 10:698. [PMID: 38133249 PMCID: PMC10747197 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci10120698] [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: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Phospholipase C Zeta 1 (PLCZ1) is considered a major sperm-borne oocyte activation factor. After gamete fusion, PLCZ1 triggers calcium oscillations in the oocyte, resulting in oocyte activation. In assisted fertilization, oocyte activation failure is a major cause of low fertility. Most cases of oocyte activation failures in humans related to male infertility are associated with gene mutations and/or altered PLCZ1. Consequently, PLCZ1 evaluation could be an effective diagnostic marker and predictor of sperm fertilizing potential for in vivo and in vitro embryo production. The characterization of PLCZ1 has been principally investigated in men and mice, with less known about the PLCZ1 impact on assisted reproduction in other species, such as cattle and horses. In horses, sperm PLCZ1 varies among stallions, and sperm populations with high PLCZ1 are associated with cleavage after intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). In contrast, bull sperm is less able to initiate calcium oscillations and undergo nuclear remodeling, resulting in poor cleavage after ICSI. Advantageously, injections of PLCZ1 are able to rescue oocyte failure in mouse oocytes after ICSI, promoting full development and birth. However, further research is needed to optimize PLCZ1 diagnostic tests for consistent association with fertility and to determine whether PLCZ1 as an oocyte-activating treatment is a physiological, efficient, and safe method for improving assisted fertilization in cattle and horses.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Elaine M. Carnevale
- Equine Reproduction Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA;
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4
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Akizawa H, Lopes E, Fissore RA. Zn 2+ is Essential for Ca 2+ Oscillations in Mouse Eggs. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.04.13.536745. [PMID: 37131581 PMCID: PMC10153198 DOI: 10.1101/2023.04.13.536745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Changes in the intracellular concentration of free calcium (Ca2+) underpin egg activation and initiation of development in animals and plants. In mammals, the Ca2+ release is periodical, known as Ca2+ oscillations, and mediated by the type 1 inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor (IP3R1). Another divalent cation, zinc (Zn2+), increases exponentially during oocyte maturation and is vital for meiotic transitions, arrests, and polyspermy prevention. It is unknown if these pivotal cations interplay during fertilization. Here, using mouse eggs, we showed that basal concentrations of labile Zn2+ are indispensable for sperm-initiated Ca2+ oscillations because Zn2+-deficient conditions induced by cell-permeable chelators abrogated Ca2+ responses evoked by fertilization and other physiological and pharmacological agonists. We also found that chemically- or genetically generated eggs with lower levels of labile Zn2+ displayed reduced IP3R1 sensitivity and diminished ER Ca2+ leak despite the stable content of the stores and IP3R1 mass. Resupplying Zn2+ restarted Ca2+ oscillations, but excessive Zn2+ prevented and terminated them, hindering IP3R1 responsiveness. The findings suggest that a window of Zn2+ concentrations is required for Ca2+ responses and IP3R1 function in eggs, ensuring optimal response to fertilization and egg activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroki Akizawa
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Massachusetts Amherst, 661 North Pleasant Street, Amherst, Massachusetts, 01003, United States
| | - Emily Lopes
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Massachusetts Amherst, 661 North Pleasant Street, Amherst, Massachusetts, 01003, United States
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Graduate Program, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Massachusetts, 01003, United States
| | - Rafael A. Fissore
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Massachusetts Amherst, 661 North Pleasant Street, Amherst, Massachusetts, 01003, United States
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5
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Yao Y, Tang Y, Qin H, Meng R, Zhang C, Zhang Y, Yang Y, Qiao P, Liu J, Su J. Zinc supplementation promotes oocyte maturation and subsequent embryonic development in sheep. Theriogenology 2023; 206:161-169. [PMID: 37210940 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.04.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2023] [Revised: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/29/2023] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Zinc plays a crucial role in the growth and reproductive functions of animals. Despite the positive effects of zinc that have been reported in oocytes of cows, pigs, yaks, and other animals, the influence of zinc on sheep is little known. To investigate the effect of zinc on the in vitro maturation of sheep oocytes and subsequent parthenogenesis-activated embryonic development, we added different concentrations of zinc sulfate to the in vitro maturation (IVM) culture medium. The IVM culture medium with zinc improved the maturation of sheep oocytes and the subsequent blastocyst rate after parthenogenesis activation. Notably, it also enhanced the level of glutathione and mitochondrial activity while reducing levels of reactive oxygen species. Thus, zinc addition to the IVM medium improved the quality of oocytes with a positive effect on the subsequent development of oocytes and embryos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yupei Yao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shanxi Province, 712100, PR China
| | - Yujie Tang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shanxi Province, 712100, PR China
| | - Haoqiang Qin
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shanxi Province, 712100, PR China
| | - Ru Meng
- Xining Animal Disease Prevention and Control Center, Xining, Qinghai Province, 810003, PR China
| | - Chengtu Zhang
- Xining Animal Disease Prevention and Control Center, Xining, Qinghai Province, 810003, PR China
| | - Yingbing Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shanxi Province, 712100, PR China
| | - Ying Yang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shanxi Province, 712100, PR China
| | - Peipei Qiao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shanxi Province, 712100, PR China
| | - Jun Liu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shanxi Province, 712100, PR China.
| | - Jianmin Su
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shanxi Province, 712100, PR China.
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6
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The Therapeutic and Diagnostic Potential of Phospholipase C Zeta, Oocyte Activation, and Calcium in Treating Human Infertility. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:ph16030441. [PMID: 36986540 PMCID: PMC10056371 DOI: 10.3390/ph16030441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2023] [Revised: 02/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Oocyte activation, a fundamental event during mammalian fertilisation, is initiated by concerted intracellular patterns of calcium (Ca2+) release, termed Ca2+ oscillations, predominantly driven by testis-specific phospholipase C zeta (PLCζ). Ca2+ exerts a pivotal role in not just regulating oocyte activation and driving fertilisation, but also in influencing the quality of embryogenesis. In humans, a failure of Ca2+ release, or defects in related mechanisms, have been reported to result in infertility. Furthermore, mutations in the PLCζ gene and abnormalities in sperm PLCζ protein and RNA, have been strongly associated with forms of male infertility where oocyte activation is deficient. Concurrently, specific patterns and profiles of PLCζ in human sperm have been linked to parameters of semen quality, suggesting the potential for PLCζ as a powerful target for both therapeutics and diagnostics of human fertility. However, further to PLCζ and given the strong role played by Ca2+ in fertilisation, targets down- and up-stream of this process may also present a significantly similar level of promise. Herein, we systematically summarise recent advancements and controversies in the field to update expanding clinical associations between Ca2+-release, PLCζ, oocyte activation and human fertility. We discuss how such associations may potentially underlie defective embryogenesis and recurrent implantation failure following fertility treatments, alongside potential diagnostic and therapeutic avenues presented by oocyte activation for the diagnosis and treatment of human infertility.
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7
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Cabeza JP, Cámera J, Briski O, Felipe MY, Salamone DF, Gambini A. Preimplantation Developmental Competence of Bovine and Porcine Oocytes Activated by Zinc Chelation. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12243560. [PMID: 36552480 PMCID: PMC9774810 DOI: 10.3390/ani12243560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Revised: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
After sperm-oocyte fusion, intracytoplasmic rises of calcium (Ca) induce the release of zinc (Zn) out of the oocyte (Zn sparks). Both phenomena are known to play an essential role in the oocyte activation process. Our work aimed to explore different protocols for activating bovine and porcine oocytes using the novel zinc chelator 1,10-phenanthroline (PHEN) and to compare developmental rates and quality to bovine IVF and parthenogenetic ionomycin-induced embryos in both species. Different incubation conditions for the zinc chelator were tested, including its combination with ionomycin. Embryo quality was assessed by immunofluorescence of SOX2, SOX17, OCT4, and CDX2 and total cell number at the blastocyst stage. Even though blastocyst development was achieved using a zinc chelator in bovine, bypassing calcium oscillations, developmental rates, and blastocyst quality were compromised compared to embryos generated with sperm-induced or ionomycin calcium rise. On the contrary, zinc chelation is sufficient to trigger oocyte activation in porcine. Additionally, we determined the optimal exposure to PHEN for this species. Zinc chelation and artificial induction of calcium rise combined did not improve developmental competence. Our results contribute to understanding the role of zinc during oocyte activation and preimplantation embryo development across different mammalian species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan P. Cabeza
- Facultad de Agronomía, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires C1417DSE, Argentina
| | - Juan Cámera
- Facultad de Agronomía, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires C1417DSE, Argentina
| | - Olinda Briski
- Facultad de Agronomía, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires C1417DSE, Argentina
- CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Instituto de Investigaciones en Producción Animal (INPA), Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires C1417DSE, Argentina
| | - Minerva Yauri Felipe
- Facultad de Agronomía, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires C1417DSE, Argentina
- CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Instituto de Investigaciones en Producción Animal (INPA), Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires C1417DSE, Argentina
| | - Daniel F. Salamone
- Facultad de Agronomía, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires C1417DSE, Argentina
- CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Instituto de Investigaciones en Producción Animal (INPA), Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires C1417DSE, Argentina
| | - Andrés Gambini
- Facultad de Agronomía, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires C1417DSE, Argentina
- School of Agriculture and Food Sciences, The University of Queensland, Gatton, QLD 4343, Australia
- Correspondence:
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8
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Chen YY, Chen S, Ok K, Duncan FE, O’Halloran TV, Woodruff TK. Zinc dynamics regulate early ovarian follicle development. J Biol Chem 2022; 299:102731. [PMID: 36423685 PMCID: PMC9800340 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2022.102731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 10/19/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Zinc fluctuations regulate key steps in late oocyte and preimplantation embryo development; however, roles for zinc in preceding stages in early ovarian follicle development, when cooperative interactions exist between the oocyte and somatic cells, are unknown. To understand the roles of zinc during early follicle development, we applied single cell X-ray fluorescence microscopy, a radioactive zinc tracer, and a labile zinc probe to measure zinc in individual mouse oocytes and associated somatic cells within early follicles. Here, we report a significant stage-specific increase and compartmental redistribution in oocyte zinc content upon the initiation of early follicle growth. The increase in zinc correlates with the increased expression of specific zinc transporters, including two that are essential in oocyte maturation. While oocytes in follicles exhibit high tolerance to pronounced changes in zinc availability, somatic survival and proliferation are significantly more sensitive to zinc chelation or supplementation. Finally, transcriptomic, proteomic, and zinc loading analyses reveal enrichment of zinc targets in the ubiquitination pathway. Overall, these results demonstrate that distinct cell type-specific zinc regulations are required for follicle growth and indicate that physiological fluctuation in the localization and availability of this inorganic cofactor has fundamental functions in early gamete development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Ying Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Si Chen
- X-ray Science Division, Argonne National Laboratory, Lemont, Illinois, USA
| | - Kiwon Ok
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - Francesca E. Duncan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Thomas V. O’Halloran
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA,Department of Chemistry, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA,Department of Chemistry, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, USA,The Chemistry of Life Processes Institute, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, USA,For correspondence: Thomas V. O’Halloran; Teresa K. Woodruff
| | - Teresa K. Woodruff
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA,For correspondence: Thomas V. O’Halloran; Teresa K. Woodruff
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9
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Lawlor M, Zigo M, Kerns K, Cho IK, Easley IV CA, Sutovsky P. Spermatozoan Metabolism as a Non-Traditional Model for the Study of Huntington’s Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23137163. [PMID: 35806166 PMCID: PMC9266437 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23137163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Revised: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Huntington’s Disease (HD) is a fatal autosomal dominant neurodegenerative disease manifested through motor dysfunction and cognitive deficits. Decreased fertility is also observed in HD animal models and HD male patients, due to altered spermatogenesis and sperm function, thus resulting in reduced fertilization potential. Although some pharmaceuticals are currently utilized to mitigate HD symptoms, an effective treatment that remedies the pathogenesis of the disease is yet to be approved by the FDA. Identification of genes and relevant diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic target pathways including glycolysis and mitochondrial complex-I-dependent respiration may be advantageous for early diagnosis, management, and treatment of the disease. This review addresses the HD pathway in neuronal and sperm metabolism, including relevant gene and protein expression in both neurons and spermatozoa, indicated in the pathogenesis of HD. Furthermore, zinc-containing and zinc-interacting proteins regulate and/or are regulated by zinc ion homeostasis in both neurons and spermatozoa. Therefore, this review also aims to explore the comparative role of zinc in both neuronal and sperm function. Ongoing studies aim to characterize the products of genes implicated in HD pathogenesis that are expressed in both neurons and spermatozoa to facilitate studies of future treatment avenues in HD and HD-related male infertility. The emerging link between zinc homeostasis and the HD pathway could lead to new treatments and diagnostic methods linking genetic sperm defects with somatic comorbidities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meghan Lawlor
- Division of Animal Science, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA; (M.L.); (M.Z.); (K.K.)
| | - Michal Zigo
- Division of Animal Science, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA; (M.L.); (M.Z.); (K.K.)
| | - Karl Kerns
- Division of Animal Science, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA; (M.L.); (M.Z.); (K.K.)
- Department of Animal Science, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA
| | - In Ki Cho
- Department of Environmental Health Science, College of Public Health, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA; (I.K.C.); (C.A.E.IV)
- Regenerative Bioscience Center, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Charles A. Easley IV
- Department of Environmental Health Science, College of Public Health, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA; (I.K.C.); (C.A.E.IV)
- Regenerative Bioscience Center, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Peter Sutovsky
- Division of Animal Science, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA; (M.L.); (M.Z.); (K.K.)
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women’s Health, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-(573)-882-3329
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10
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Zee DZ, MacRenaris KW, O'Halloran TV. Quantitative imaging approaches to understanding biological processing of metal ions. Curr Opin Chem Biol 2022; 69:102152. [PMID: 35561425 PMCID: PMC9329216 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2022.102152] [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: 02/14/2022] [Revised: 03/19/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Faster, more sensitive, and higher resolution quantitative instrumentation are aiding a deeper understanding of how inorganic chemistry regulates key biological processes. Researchers can now image and quantify metals with subcellular resolution, leading to a vast array of new discoveries in organismal development, pathology, and disease. Metals have recently been implicated in several diseases such as Parkinson's, Alzheimers, ischemic stroke, and colorectal cancer that would not be possible without these advancements. In this review, instead of focusing on instrumentation we focus on recent applications of label-free elemental imaging and quantification and how these tools can lead to a broader understanding of metals role in systems biology and human pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Z Zee
- The Chemistry of Life Processes Institute, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Keith W MacRenaris
- The Chemistry of Life Processes Institute, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA; Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Thomas V O'Halloran
- The Chemistry of Life Processes Institute, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA; Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA; Department of Chemistry, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA; Department of Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA; Department of Chemistry, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA; Elemental Health Institute, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA.
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11
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Kashir J, Ganesh D, Jones C, Coward K. OUP accepted manuscript. Hum Reprod Open 2022; 2022:hoac003. [PMID: 35261925 PMCID: PMC8894871 DOI: 10.1093/hropen/hoac003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Revised: 01/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Oocyte activation deficiency (OAD) is attributed to the majority of cases underlying failure of ICSI cycles, the standard treatment for male factor infertility. Oocyte activation encompasses a series of concerted events, triggered by sperm-specific phospholipase C zeta (PLCζ), which elicits increases in free cytoplasmic calcium (Ca2+) in spatially and temporally specific oscillations. Defects in this specific pattern of Ca2+ release are directly attributable to most cases of OAD. Ca2+ release can be clinically mediated via assisted oocyte activation (AOA), a combination of mechanical, electrical and/or chemical stimuli which artificially promote an increase in the levels of intra-cytoplasmic Ca2+. However, concerns regarding safety and efficacy underlie potential risks that must be addressed before such methods can be safely widely used. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE Recent advances in current AOA techniques warrant a review of the safety and efficacy of these practices, to determine the extent to which AOA may be implemented in the clinic. Importantly, the primary challenges to obtaining data on the safety and efficacy of AOA must be determined. Such questions require urgent attention before widespread clinical utilization of such protocols can be advocated. SEARCH METHODS A literature review was performed using databases including PubMed, Web of Science, Medline, etc. using AOA, OAD, calcium ionophores, ICSI, PLCζ, oocyte activation, failed fertilization and fertilization failure as keywords. Relevant articles published until June 2019 were analysed and included in the review, with an emphasis on studies assessing large-scale efficacy and safety. OUTCOMES Contradictory studies on the safety and efficacy of AOA do not yet allow for the establishment of AOA as standard practice in the clinic. Heterogeneity in study methodology, inconsistent sample inclusion criteria, non-standardized outcome assessments, restricted sample size and animal model limitations render AOA strictly experimental. The main scientific concern impeding AOA utilization in the clinic is the non-physiological method of Ca2+ release mediated by most AOA agents, coupled with a lack of holistic understanding regarding the physiological mechanism(s) underlying Ca2+ release at oocyte activation. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The number of studies with clinical relevance using AOA remains significantly low. A much wider range of studies examining outcomes using multiple AOA agents are required. WIDER IMPLICATIONS In addition to addressing the five main challenges of studies assessing AOA safety and efficacy, more standardized, large-scale, multi-centre studies of AOA, as well as long-term follow-up studies of children born from AOA, would provide evidence for establishing AOA as a treatment for infertility. The delivery of an activating agent that can more accurately recapitulate physiological fertilization, such as recombinant PLCζ, is a promising prospect for the future of AOA. Further to PLCζ, many other avenues of physiological oocyte activation also require urgent investigation to assess other potential physiological avenues of AOA. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS D.G. was supported by Stanford University’s Bing Overseas Study Program. J.K. was supported by a Healthcare Research Fellowship Award (HF-14-16) made by Health and Care Research Wales (HCRW), alongside a National Science, Technology, and Innovation plan (NSTIP) project grant (15-MED4186-20) awarded by the King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST). The authors have no competing interests to declare.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Celine Jones
- Nuffield Department of Women’s & Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Level 3, Women’s Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, UK
| | - Kevin Coward
- Correspondence address. Nuffield Department of Women’s & Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Level 3, Women’s Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, OS3 9DU, UK. E-mail: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3577-4041
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12
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Kageyama A, Suyama A, Kinoshita R, Ito J, Kashiwazaki N. Dynamic changes of intracellular zinc ion level during maturation, fertilization, activation, and development in mouse oocytes. Anim Sci J 2022; 93:e13759. [PMID: 35880318 DOI: 10.1111/asj.13759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Revised: 06/12/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Although it is well known that calcium oscillations are required for fertilization in all mammalian species studied to date, recent studies also showed the ejection of zinc into the extracellular milieu in a series of coordinated events, called "zinc spark," during mammalian fertilization. These results led us to the hypothesis that a zinc ion-dependent signal is important for oocyte maturation, fertilization (activation), and further embryonic development. In this study, we evaluated the amounts and localization of intracellular zinc ions during maturation, fertilization, activation, and embryonic development in mouse oocytes. Our results show that abundant zinc ions are present in both immature and mature oocytes. After in vitro fertilization, the amounts of zinc ions were dramatically decreased at the pronuclear (PN) stage. Artificial activation by cycloheximide, SrCl2 , and TPEN also reduced the amounts of zinc ions in the PN stage. On the other hand, PN embryos derived from sperm injection still showed high level of zinc ions. However, the amounts of zinc ions rapidly increased at the blastocysts regardless of activation method. We showed here that the amounts of zinc ions dramatically changed during maturation, fertilization, activation, and development in mouse oocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atsuko Kageyama
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Graduate School of Veterinary Sciences, Azabu University, Sagamihara, Japan
| | - Ayumi Suyama
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Graduate School of Veterinary Sciences, Azabu University, Sagamihara, Japan
| | - Ruka Kinoshita
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Azabu University, Sagamihara, Japan
| | - Junya Ito
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Graduate School of Veterinary Sciences, Azabu University, Sagamihara, Japan.,School of Veterinary Medicine, Azabu University, Sagamihara, Japan.,Center for Human and Animal Symbiosis Science, Azabu University, Sagamihara, Japan
| | - Naomi Kashiwazaki
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Graduate School of Veterinary Sciences, Azabu University, Sagamihara, Japan.,School of Veterinary Medicine, Azabu University, Sagamihara, Japan
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13
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Uh K, Hay A, Chen P, Reese E, Lee K. Design of novel oocyte activation methods: The role of zinc. Biol Reprod 2021; 106:264-273. [PMID: 34935887 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioab235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Revised: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Oocyte activation occurs at the time of fertilization and is a series of cellular events initiated by intracellular Ca2+ increases. Consequently, oocytes are alleviated from their arrested state in meiotic metaphase II (MII), allowing for the completion of meiosis. Oocyte activation is also an essential step for somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) and an important tool to overcome clinical infertility. Traditional artificial activation methods aim to mimic the intracellular Ca2+ changes which occur during fertilization. Recent studies emphasize the importance of cytoplasmic Zn2+ on oocyte maturation and the completion of meiosis, thus suggesting artificial oocyte activation approaches that are centered around the concentration of available Zn2+in oocytes. Depletion of intracellular Zn2+ in oocytes with heavy metal chelators leads to successful oocyte activation in the absence of cellular Ca2+ changes, indicating that successful oocyte activation does not always depends on intracellular Ca2+ increases. Current findings lead to new approaches to artificially activate mammalian oocytes by reducing available Zn2+ contents, and the approaches improve the outcome of oocyte activation when combined with existing Ca2+ based oocyte activation methods. Here, we review the important role of Ca2+ and Zn2+ in mammalian oocyte activation and development of novel oocyte activation approaches based on Zn2+ availability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyungjun Uh
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65201, USA
| | - Alayna Hay
- Department of Animal and Poultry Sciences, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, 24061, USA
| | - Paula Chen
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65201, USA
| | - Emily Reese
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65201, USA
| | - Kiho Lee
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65201, USA
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14
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Chen PR, Redel BK, Kerns KC, Spate LD, Prather RS. Challenges and Considerations during In Vitro Production of Porcine Embryos. Cells 2021; 10:cells10102770. [PMID: 34685749 PMCID: PMC8535139 DOI: 10.3390/cells10102770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2021] [Revised: 10/12/2021] [Accepted: 10/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Genetically modified pigs have become valuable tools for generating advances in animal agriculture and human medicine. Importantly, in vitro production and manipulation of embryos is an essential step in the process of creating porcine models. As the in vitro environment is still suboptimal, it is imperative to examine the porcine embryo culture system from several angles to identify methods for improvement. Understanding metabolic characteristics of porcine embryos and considering comparisons with other mammalian species is useful for optimizing culture media formulations. Furthermore, stressors arising from the environment and maternal or paternal factors must be taken into consideration to produce healthy embryos in vitro. In this review, we progress stepwise through in vitro oocyte maturation, fertilization, and embryo culture in pigs to assess the status of current culture systems and address points where improvements can be made.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula R. Chen
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | | | - Karl C. Kerns
- Department of Animal Science, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA
| | - Lee D. Spate
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
- National Swine Resource and Research Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - Randall S. Prather
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
- National Swine Resource and Research Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
- Correspondence:
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15
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Chen X, Liang W, Wang S, Lv Y, Han Y, Xu D, Jin Y. Evaluation of ubiquitination and sumoylation of acrosin inhibitor during in vitro capacitation of porcine sperm. Anim Biotechnol 2021; 32:646-655. [PMID: 34554078 DOI: 10.1080/10495398.2021.1979568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
The main objective of this study was to investigate the expression of acrosin inhibitor (AI), ubiquitin (Ub), and small ubiquitin-related modifier 1 (SUMO1) proteins during in vitro capacitation of pig sperm. Duroc pig sperm was divided into fresh sperm and capacitation treatment groups. Protein expression was evaluated using computer-assisted sperm analysis (CASA) systems, sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE), western blotting, and immunofluorescence. The results showed that the expression of AI (30 kDa) incapacitated sperm was significantly lower than that in fresh sperm (P < 0.05), and that the levels of ubiquitinated and SUMO1-ylated proteins in capacitated sperm were significantly higher than those in fresh sperm (P < 0.05). Immunofluorescence results showed that AI, Ub, and SUMO1 were located in the acrosome region of the fresh and capacitated sperm heads. After capacitation, the fluorescence intensity of AI and SUMO1 decreased, while that of Ub increased. The protein band at 30 kDa represented the AI-Ub-SUMO1 complex, indicating that this complex was involved in sperm capacitation. Furthermore, SUMO1 increased the stability of AI at 30 kDa, preventing its complete decomposition, while at 46 kDa, in the absence of SUMO1, AI is bound to ubiquitin, and was completely degraded.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Chen
- Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture, Yanbian University, Yanji, Jilin Province, China
| | - Wanfeng Liang
- Department of Animal Medicine, College of Agriculture, Yanbian University, Yanji, Jilin Province, China
| | - Shi Wang
- Jilin Zhongke Biological Engineering Co. Ltd, Jilin, Jilin Province, China
| | - Yanqiu Lv
- Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture, Yanbian University, Yanji, Jilin Province, China
| | - Yue Han
- Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture, Yanbian University, Yanji, Jilin Province, China
| | - Da Xu
- Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture, Yanbian University, Yanji, Jilin Province, China
| | - Yi Jin
- Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture, Yanbian University, Yanji, Jilin Province, China
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16
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Abstract
Mammalian oocytes undergo major changes in zinc content and localization to be fertilized, the most striking being the rapid exocytosis of over 10 billion zinc ions in what are known as zinc sparks. Here, we report that fertilization of amphibian Xenopus laevis eggs also initiates a zinc spark that progresses across the cell surface in coordination with dynamic calcium waves. This zinc exocytosis is accompanied by a newly recognized loss of intracellular manganese. Synchrotron-based X-ray fluorescence and analytical electron microscopy reveal that zinc and manganese are sequestered in a system of cortical granules that are abundant at the animal pole. Through electron-nuclear double-resonance studies, we rule out Mn2+ complexation with phosphate or nitrogenous ligands in intact eggs, but the data are consistent with a carboxylate coordination environment. Our observations suggest that zinc and manganese fluxes are a conserved feature of fertilization in vertebrates and that they function as part of a physiological block to polyspermy.
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17
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Lee HC, Edmonds ME, Duncan FE, O'Halloran TV, Woodruff TK. Zinc exocytosis is sensitive to myosin light chain kinase inhibition in mouse and human eggs. Mol Hum Reprod 2021; 26:228-239. [PMID: 32119740 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaaa017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2019] [Revised: 02/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Zinc dynamics are essential for oocyte meiotic maturation, egg activation, and preimplantation embryo development. During fertilisation and egg activation, the egg releases billions of zinc atoms (Zn2+) in an exocytotic event termed the 'zinc spark'. We hypothesised that this zinc transport and exocytosis is dependent upon the intracellular trafficking of cortical granules (CG) which requires myosin-actin-dependent motors. Treatment of mature mouse and human eggs with ML-7, a myosin light chain kinase inhibitor (MLCK), resulted in an 80% reduction in zinc spark intensity compared to untreated controls when activated with ionomycin. Moreover, CG migration towards the plasma membrane was significantly decreased in ML-7-treated eggs compared with controls when activated parthenogenetically with ionomycin. In sperm-induced fertilisation via intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), ML-7-treated mouse eggs exhibited decreased labile zinc intensity and cortical CG staining. Collectively, these data demonstrate that ML-7 treatment impairs zinc release from both murine and human eggs after activation, demonstrating that zinc exocytosis requires myosin light chain kinase activity. Further, these results provide additional support that zinc is likely stored and released from CGs. These data underscore the importance of intracellular zinc trafficking as a crucial component of egg maturation necessary for egg activation and early embryo development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hoi Chang Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Maxwell E Edmonds
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Francesca E Duncan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA.,Chemistry of Life Processes Institute, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Thomas V O'Halloran
- Chemistry of Life Processes Institute, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA.,Department of Chemistry, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Teresa K Woodruff
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA.,Chemistry of Life Processes Institute, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
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18
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Garner TB, Hester JM, Carothers A, Diaz FJ. Role of zinc in female reproduction. Biol Reprod 2021; 104:976-994. [PMID: 33598687 PMCID: PMC8599883 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioab023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2020] [Revised: 01/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Zinc is a critical component in a number of conserved processes that regulate female germ cell growth, fertility, and pregnancy. During follicle development, a sufficient intracellular concentration of zinc in the oocyte maintains meiotic arrest at prophase I until the germ cell is ready to undergo maturation. An adequate supply of zinc is necessary for the oocyte to form a fertilization-competent egg as dietary zinc deficiency or chelation of zinc disrupts maturation and reduces the oocyte quality. Following sperm fusion to the egg to initiate the acrosomal reaction, a quick release of zinc, known as the zinc spark, induces egg activation in addition to facilitating zona pellucida hardening and reducing sperm motility to prevent polyspermy. Symmetric division, proliferation, and differentiation of the preimplantation embryo rely on zinc availability, both during the oocyte development and post-fertilization. Further, the fetal contribution to the placenta, fetal limb growth, and neural tube development are hindered in females challenged with zinc deficiency during pregnancy. In this review, we discuss the role of zinc in germ cell development, fertilization, and pregnancy with a focus on recent studies in mammalian females. We further detail the fundamental zinc-mediated reproductive processes that have only been explored in non-mammalian species and speculate on the role of zinc in similar mechanisms of female mammals. The evidence collected over the last decade highlights the necessity of zinc for normal fertility and healthy pregnancy outcomes, which suggests zinc supplementation should be considered for reproductive age women at risk of zinc deficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tyler Bruce Garner
- Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, Integrative and Biomedical Physiology Program, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
| | - James Malcolm Hester
- Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, Integrative and Biomedical Physiology Program, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
| | - Allison Carothers
- Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, Integrative and Biomedical Physiology Program, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
| | - Francisco J Diaz
- Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, Integrative and Biomedical Physiology Program, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
- Department of Animal Science, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
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19
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Lee HC, Balough JL, Roth EW, Vaccari S, Duncan FE. A decellularized oocyte-derived scaffold provides a "sperm safe" to preserve mammalian spermatozoa. Andrology 2021; 9:922-932. [PMID: 33565255 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2020] [Revised: 01/14/2021] [Accepted: 02/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although only one spermatozoon is needed to create a zygote, a significant challenge is the storage and recovery of germ cells when sperm counts are extremely low. OBJECTIVES We engineered an oocyte-derived biomaterial-the zona pellucida (ZP)-as a "sperm safe" for storing spermatozoon. The ZP is a glycoprotein matrix that surrounds the mammalian oocyte. MATERIALS AND METHODS We made a hole in the ZPs using a Piezo drill and mechanically separated them from the oocyte cytoplasm. A subset of ZPs were further purified through decellularization. Using a modified ICSI approach, we injected sperm heads into purified ZPs and tested the efficacy of cryopreservation and recovery of spermatozoon as well as function. RESULTS Between 1-6 sperm heads were injected into purified ZPs (average 2.7 ± 1.7 sperm heads/ZP), which were then cryopreserved. Upon thawing, an average of 2.5 ± 1.4 sperm heads/ZP were observed, and in 11 of 12 thawed "sperm safes," we recovered all spermatozoa. Decellularized "sperm safes" maintained their three-dimensional structure and had a denser matrix relative to untreated controls as assessed by scanning and transmitted electron microscopy. The efficacy of "sperm safe" derived spermatozoon was evaluated by ICSI. Spermatozoon stored in either untreated or decellularized "sperm safes" elicited egg activation-associated calcium transients and zinc sparks when injected into eggs. Of the resulting zygotes, >80% of them formed pronuclei irrespective of the sperm source. 26.8 ± 4.6% and 18.1 ± 7.0% of the pre-implantation embryos generated from spermatozoon recovered from untreated or decellularized "sperm safes" developed to the blastocyst stage, respectively. Although this development was lower than that using fresh spermatozoon (59.3 ± 19.3%) or conventionally frozen-thawed spermatozoon (28.4 ± 1.7%), these differences were not significant. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION Purified ZPs represent a natural biomaterial for the efficient preservation and recovery of small sperm numbers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hoi Chang Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Julia L Balough
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Eric W Roth
- NUANCE, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Sergio Vaccari
- Spring Fertility, San Francisco/Silicon Valley, East Bay, CA, USA
| | - Francesca E Duncan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
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20
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McLennan HJ, Sutton-McDowall ML, Heng S, Abell AD, Thompson JG. Time-lapse confocal imaging-induced calcium ion discharge from the cumulus-oocyte complex at the time of cattle oocyte activation. Reprod Fertil Dev 2020; 32:1223-1238. [PMID: 33027608 DOI: 10.1071/rd20143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2020] [Accepted: 09/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Oocyte activation, the dynamic transformation of an oocyte into an embryo, is largely driven by Ca2+ oscillations that vary in duration and amplitude across species. Previous studies have analysed intraoocyte Ca2+ oscillations in the absence of the oocyte's supporting cumulus cells. Therefore, it is unknown whether cumulus cells also produce an ionic signal that reflects fertilisation success. Time-lapse confocal microscopy and image analysis on abattoir-derived cattle cumulus-oocyte complexes coincubated with spermatozoa revealed a distinct discharge of fluorescence from the cumulus vestment. This study demonstrated that this Ca2+ fluorescence discharge was an artefact induced by the imaging procedure independently of oocyte activation success. The fluorescence discharge was a direct result of cumulus cell membrane integrity loss, and future studies should consider the long-term effect of fluorescent labels on cells in time-lapse imaging. However, this study also demonstrated that the distinctive pattern of a coordinated fluorescence discharge was associated with both the presence of spermatozoa and subsequent embryo development to the morula stage, which was affected by Ca2+ chelation and a reduction in the active efflux of the fluorophore. This indicates that the cumulus vestment may have a relationship with oocyte activation at and beyond fertilisation that requires further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanna J McLennan
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Nanoscale BioPhotonics, Australia; and Robinson Research Institute, Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia; and Institute for Photonics and Advanced Sensing, School of Physical Sciences, University of Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia; and Corresponding author.
| | - Melanie L Sutton-McDowall
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Nanoscale BioPhotonics, Australia; and Robinson Research Institute, Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia; and Institute for Photonics and Advanced Sensing, School of Physical Sciences, University of Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
| | - Sabrina Heng
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Nanoscale BioPhotonics, Australia; and Institute for Photonics and Advanced Sensing, School of Physical Sciences, University of Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia; and Department of Chemistry, School of Physical Sciences, University of Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
| | - Andrew D Abell
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Nanoscale BioPhotonics, Australia; and Institute for Photonics and Advanced Sensing, School of Physical Sciences, University of Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia; and Department of Chemistry, School of Physical Sciences, University of Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
| | - Jeremy G Thompson
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Nanoscale BioPhotonics, Australia; and Robinson Research Institute, Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia; and Institute for Photonics and Advanced Sensing, School of Physical Sciences, University of Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
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21
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Converse A, Thomas P. The zinc transporter ZIP9 (Slc39a9) regulates zinc dynamics essential to egg activation in zebrafish. Sci Rep 2020; 10:15673. [PMID: 32973303 PMCID: PMC7518430 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-72515-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2020] [Accepted: 09/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The zinc transporter ZIP9 (SLC39A9) was recently characterized as a membrane androgen receptor in various teleost and mammalian cell models. ZIP9 shows the highest expression in ovaries of teleosts, a tissue in which both androgen signaling and zinc dynamics have significant roles. To examine the role of ZIP9 in ovarian physiology, we generated a ZIP9-mutant zebrafish strain using a CRISPR/Cas9 system. zip9-/- females showed significant reductions in fecundity, embryo viability, and growth of their offspring compared to wildtype (WT) fish. Furthermore, a high proportion of zip9-/- eggs failed to undergo normal chorion elevation during activation. In WT eggs, zinc was detected in cortically-localized vesicles which underwent exocytosis upon activation. zip9-/- eggs showed abnormal cortical vesicle development and had a significantly depressed activation-induced zinc release compared to WT eggs. Moreover, pharmacologically sustained elevation of zinc in WT eggs prior to activation resulted in abnormal chorion elevation similar to that observed in zip9-/- eggs. These results indicate that ZIP9 is essential for proper zinc modulation during zebrafish egg activation and presents the first evidence of zinc modulation during egg activation in a non-mammalian species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aubrey Converse
- Marine Science Institute, The University of Texas at Austin, 750 Channelview Dr., Port Aransas, TX, 78373, USA.
| | - Peter Thomas
- Marine Science Institute, The University of Texas at Austin, 750 Channelview Dr., Port Aransas, TX, 78373, USA
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22
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Nakai M, Ito J, Suyama A, Kageyama A, Tobari Y, Kashiwazaki N. Phospholipase Cζ (PLCζ) versus postacrosomal sheath WW domain-binding protein (PAWP): Which molecule will survive as a sperm factor? Anim Sci J 2020; 91:e13345. [PMID: 32219949 PMCID: PMC7140179 DOI: 10.1111/asj.13345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2019] [Revised: 12/26/2019] [Accepted: 12/27/2019] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
During mammalian fertilization, sperm is fused with the oocyte's membrane, triggering the resumption of meiosis from the metaphase II arrest, the extrusion of the second polar body, and the exocytosis of cortical granules; these events are collectively called 'oocyte activation.' In all species studied to date, the transient rise in the cytosolic level of calcium (in particular, the repeated calcium increases called 'calcium oscillations' in mammals) is required for these events. Researchers have focused on identifying the factor(s) that can induce calcium oscillations during fertilization. Sperm‐specific phospholipase C, i.e., PLC zeta (PLCζ), is a strong candidate of the factor(s), and several research groups using different species obtained evidence that PLCζ is a sperm factor that can induce calcium oscillations during fertilization. However, postacrosomal sheath Tryptophan‐Tryptophan (WW)—domain‐binding protein (PAWP) was recently shown to have a pivotal role in inducing calcium oscillations in some species. In this review, we focus on PLCζ and PAWP as sperm factors, and we discuss this controversy: Which of these two molecules survives as a sperm factor?
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Affiliation(s)
- Michiko Nakai
- Institute of Agrobiological Sciences, National Agriculture and Food Research Organization, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Junya Ito
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine, Azabu University, Sagamihara, Japan.,Graduate School of Veterinary Sciences, Azabu University, Sagamihara, Japan
| | - Ayumi Suyama
- Graduate School of Veterinary Sciences, Azabu University, Sagamihara, Japan
| | - Atsuko Kageyama
- Graduate School of Veterinary Sciences, Azabu University, Sagamihara, Japan
| | - Yasuko Tobari
- Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding, School of Veterinary Medicine, Azabu University, Sagamihara, Japan
| | - Naomi Kashiwazaki
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine, Azabu University, Sagamihara, Japan.,Graduate School of Veterinary Sciences, Azabu University, Sagamihara, Japan
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Hu Q, Duncan FE, Nowakowski AB, Antipova OA, Woodruff TK, O'Halloran TV, Wolfner MF. Zinc Dynamics during Drosophila Oocyte Maturation and Egg Activation. iScience 2020; 23:101275. [PMID: 32615472 PMCID: PMC7330606 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2020.101275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2020] [Revised: 05/30/2020] [Accepted: 06/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Temporal fluctuations in zinc concentration are essential signals, including during oogenesis and early embryogenesis. In mammals, zinc accumulation and release are required for oocyte maturation and egg activation, respectively. Here, we demonstrate that zinc flux occurs in Drosophila oocytes and activated eggs, and that zinc is required for female fertility. Our synchrotron-based X-ray fluorescence microscopy reveals zinc as the most abundant transition metal in Drosophila oocytes. Its levels increase during oocyte maturation, accompanied by the appearance of zinc-enriched intracellular granules in the oocyte, which depend on transporters. Subsequently, in egg activation, which mediates the transition from oocyte to embryo, oocyte zinc levels decrease significantly, as does the number of zinc-enriched granules. This pattern of zinc dynamics in Drosophila oocytes follows a similar trajectory to that in mammals, extending the parallels in female gamete processes between Drosophila and mammals and establishing Drosophila as a model for dissecting reproductive roles of zinc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qinan Hu
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Francesca E Duncan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Andrew B Nowakowski
- The Chemistry of Life Processes Institute, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA; Department of Chemistry, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA
| | - Olga A Antipova
- X-ray Sciences Division, Argonne National Laboratory, Argonne, IL 60439, USA
| | - Teresa K Woodruff
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA; The Chemistry of Life Processes Institute, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA; Department of Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA.
| | - Thomas V O'Halloran
- The Chemistry of Life Processes Institute, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA; Department of Chemistry, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA; Department of Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA.
| | - Mariana F Wolfner
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA.
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24
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Wozniak KL, Bainbridge RE, Summerville DW, Tembo M, Phelps WA, Sauer ML, Wisner BW, Czekalski ME, Pasumarthy S, Hanson ML, Linderman MB, Luu CH, Boehm ME, Sanders SM, Buckley KM, Bain DJ, Nicotra ML, Lee MT, Carlson AE. Zinc protection of fertilized eggs is an ancient feature of sexual reproduction in animals. PLoS Biol 2020; 18:e3000811. [PMID: 32735558 PMCID: PMC7423145 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pbio.3000811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2019] [Revised: 08/12/2020] [Accepted: 07/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
One of the earliest and most prevalent barriers to successful reproduction is polyspermy, or fertilization of an egg by multiple sperm. To prevent these supernumerary fertilizations, eggs have evolved multiple mechanisms. It has recently been proposed that zinc released by mammalian eggs at fertilization may block additional sperm from entering. Here, we demonstrate that eggs from amphibia and teleost fish also release zinc. Using Xenopus laevis as a model, we document that zinc reversibly blocks fertilization. Finally, we demonstrate that extracellular zinc similarly disrupts early embryonic development in eggs from diverse phyla, including Cnidaria, Echinodermata, and Chordata. Our study reveals that a fundamental strategy protecting human eggs from fertilization by multiple sperm may have evolved more than 650 million years ago.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine L. Wozniak
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Rachel E. Bainbridge
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Dominique W. Summerville
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Maiwase Tembo
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Wesley A. Phelps
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Monica L. Sauer
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Bennett W. Wisner
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Madelyn E. Czekalski
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Srikavya Pasumarthy
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Meghan L. Hanson
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Melania B. Linderman
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Catherine H. Luu
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Madison E. Boehm
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Steven M. Sanders
- Department of Surgery and Immunology, Thomas E. Starzl Transplantation Institute, and Center for Evolutionary Biology and Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Katherine M. Buckley
- Department of Biological Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, United States of America
| | - Daniel J. Bain
- Department of Geology and Environmental Science, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Matthew L. Nicotra
- Department of Surgery and Immunology, Thomas E. Starzl Transplantation Institute, and Center for Evolutionary Biology and Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Miler T. Lee
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Anne E. Carlson
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
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25
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Woodruff TK. Lessons from bioengineering the ovarian follicle: a personal perspective. Reproduction 2020; 158:F113-F126. [PMID: 31846436 DOI: 10.1530/rep-19-0190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2019] [Accepted: 07/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The ovarian follicle and its maturation captivated my imagination and inspired my scientific journey - what we know now about this remarkable structure is captured in this invited review. In the past decade, our knowledge of the ovarian follicle expanded dramatically as cross-disciplinary collaborations brought new perspectives to bear, ultimately leading to the development of extragonadal follicles as model systems with significant clinical implications. Follicle maturation in vitro in an 'artificial' ovary became possible by learning what the follicle is fundamentally and autonomously capable of - which turns out to be quite a lot. Progress in understanding and harnessing follicle biology has been aided by engineers and materials scientists who created hardware that enables tissue function for extended periods of time. The EVATAR system supports extracorporeal ovarian function in an engineered environment that mimics the endocrine environment of the reproductive tract. Finally, applying the tools of inorganic chemistry, we discovered that oocytes require zinc to mature over time - a truly new aspect of follicle biology with no antecedent other than the presence of zinc in sperm. Drawing on the tools and ideas from the fields of bioengineering, materials science and chemistry unlocked follicle biology in ways that we could not have known or even predicted. Similarly, how today's basic science discoveries regarding ovarian follicle maturation are translated to improve the experience of tomorrow's patients is yet to be determined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresa K Woodruff
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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26
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McLennan HJ, Saini A, Sylvia GM, Schartner EP, Dunning KR, Purdey MS, Monro TM, Abell AD, Thompson JG. A biophotonic approach to measure pH in small volumes in vitro: Quantifiable differences in metabolic flux around the cumulus-oocyte-complex (COC). JOURNAL OF BIOPHOTONICS 2020; 13:e201960038. [PMID: 31725948 DOI: 10.1002/jbio.201960038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2019] [Revised: 11/03/2019] [Accepted: 11/12/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Unfertilised eggs (oocytes) release chemical biomarkers into the medium surrounding them. This provides an opportunity to monitor cell health and development during assisted reproductive processes if detected in a non-invasive manner. Here we report the measurement of pH using an optical fibre probe, OFP1, in 5 μL drops of culture medium containing single mouse cumulus oocyte complexes (COCs). This allowed for the detection of statistically significant differences in pH between COCs in culture medium with no additives and those incubated with either a chemical (cobalt chloride) or hormonal treatment (follicle stimulating hormone); both of which serve to induce the release of lactic acid into the medium immediately surrounding the COC. Importantly, OFP1 was shown to be cell-safe with no inherent cell toxicity or light-induced phototoxicity indicated by negative DNA damage staining. Pre-measurement photobleaching of the probe reduced fluorescence signal variability, providing improved measurement precision (0.01-0.05 pH units) compared to previous studies. This optical technology presents a promising platform for the measurement of pH and the detection of other extracellular biomarkers to assess cell health during assisted reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanna J McLennan
- ARC Centre of Excellence for Nanoscale BioPhotonics, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Robinson Research Institute, Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Institute for Photonics and Advanced Sensing, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Avishkar Saini
- ARC Centre of Excellence for Nanoscale BioPhotonics, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Robinson Research Institute, Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Institute for Photonics and Advanced Sensing, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Georgina M Sylvia
- ARC Centre of Excellence for Nanoscale BioPhotonics, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Institute for Photonics and Advanced Sensing, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Department of Chemistry, School of Physical Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Erik P Schartner
- ARC Centre of Excellence for Nanoscale BioPhotonics, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Institute for Photonics and Advanced Sensing, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Department of Chemistry, School of Physical Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Kylie R Dunning
- ARC Centre of Excellence for Nanoscale BioPhotonics, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Robinson Research Institute, Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Institute for Photonics and Advanced Sensing, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Malcolm S Purdey
- ARC Centre of Excellence for Nanoscale BioPhotonics, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Tanya M Monro
- ARC Centre of Excellence for Nanoscale BioPhotonics, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Institute for Photonics and Advanced Sensing, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Laser Physics and Photonic Devices Laboratories, School of Engineering, University of South Australia, Mawson Lakes, South Australia, Australia
| | - Andrew D Abell
- ARC Centre of Excellence for Nanoscale BioPhotonics, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Institute for Photonics and Advanced Sensing, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Department of Chemistry, School of Physical Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Jeremy G Thompson
- ARC Centre of Excellence for Nanoscale BioPhotonics, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Robinson Research Institute, Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Institute for Photonics and Advanced Sensing, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
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27
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Pascua AM, Nikoloff N, Carranza AC, Anchordoquy JP, Quintana S, Barbisán G, Díaz S, Anchordoquy JM, Furnus CC. Reproductive hormones influence zinc homeostasis in the bovine cumulus-oocyte complex: Impact on intracellular zinc concentration and transporters gene expression. Theriogenology 2020; 146:48-57. [PMID: 32036060 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.01.054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2019] [Revised: 12/01/2019] [Accepted: 01/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Zinc (Zn) is a vital trace element for the body and its bioavailability influences numerous reproductive events. However, the mechanisms that regulate Zn homeostasis in the cumulus-oocyte complex (COC) are yet to be elucidated. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of estradiol 17-beta (E2), FSH and LH in Zn homeostasis regulation in bovine COC matured in vitro and Zn transporters gene expression. For this purpose, intracellular Zn levels in oocytes and cumulus cells (CC) were assessed using a Zn-specific fluorescent indicator. In addition, gene expression and sequencing of six Zn transporters (Slc39a6, Slc39a8, Slc39a14, Slc30a3, Slc30a7 and Slc30a9) were assessed. Our results demonstrated that the simultaneous presence of E2, FSH, and LH during oocyte maturation altered intracellular zinc levels and transporters expression in both oocytes and CC. Transporter's gene expression was different in oocytes and CC, possibly due to cell-specific changes in Zn levels during maturation. The interaction effects of Zn with hormonal treatments influenced the results. This study emphasizes that Slc39a6 is highly sensitive to hormone induction. Overall, the hormonal modulation of Zn homeostasis in the COC was evidenced. Also, a preponderant role of FSH as a modulator of Zn intracellular levels and transporter gene expression is suggested.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana M Pascua
- IGEVET - Instituto de Genética Veterinaria "Ing. Fernando N Dulout"(UNLP-CONICET LA PLATA), Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias UNLP, calles 60 y 118, B1904AMA La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Noelia Nikoloff
- IGEVET - Instituto de Genética Veterinaria "Ing. Fernando N Dulout"(UNLP-CONICET LA PLATA), Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias UNLP, calles 60 y 118, B1904AMA La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Ana C Carranza
- IGEVET - Instituto de Genética Veterinaria "Ing. Fernando N Dulout"(UNLP-CONICET LA PLATA), Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias UNLP, calles 60 y 118, B1904AMA La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Juan P Anchordoquy
- IGEVET - Instituto de Genética Veterinaria "Ing. Fernando N Dulout"(UNLP-CONICET LA PLATA), Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias UNLP, calles 60 y 118, B1904AMA La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Silvina Quintana
- CIAS - Centro de Investigación en Abejas Sociales, Departamento de Biología, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata, Funes 3350 (7600), Mar del Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Gisela Barbisán
- IGEVET - Instituto de Genética Veterinaria "Ing. Fernando N Dulout"(UNLP-CONICET LA PLATA), Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias UNLP, calles 60 y 118, B1904AMA La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Silvina Díaz
- IGEVET - Instituto de Genética Veterinaria "Ing. Fernando N Dulout"(UNLP-CONICET LA PLATA), Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias UNLP, calles 60 y 118, B1904AMA La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Juan M Anchordoquy
- IGEVET - Instituto de Genética Veterinaria "Ing. Fernando N Dulout"(UNLP-CONICET LA PLATA), Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias UNLP, calles 60 y 118, B1904AMA La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Cecilia C Furnus
- IGEVET - Instituto de Genética Veterinaria "Ing. Fernando N Dulout"(UNLP-CONICET LA PLATA), Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias UNLP, calles 60 y 118, B1904AMA La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Cátedra de Citología, Histología y Embriología "A" Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, calle 60 y 120 s/n, CP 1900, La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
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28
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Trebichalská Z, Holubcová Z. Perfect date-the review of current research into molecular bases of mammalian fertilization. J Assist Reprod Genet 2020; 37:243-256. [PMID: 31909446 PMCID: PMC7056734 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-019-01679-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2019] [Accepted: 12/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Fertilization is a multistep process during which two terminally differentiated haploid cells, an egg and a sperm, combine to produce a totipotent diploid zygote. In the early 1950s, it became possible to fertilize mammalian eggs in vitro and study the sequence of cellular and molecular events leading to embryo development. Despite all the achievements of assisted reproduction in the last four decades, remarkably little is known about the molecular aspects of human conception. Current fertility research in animal models is casting more light on the complexity of the process all our lives start with. This review article provides an update on the investigation of mammalian fertilization and highlights the practical implications of scientific discoveries in the context of human reproduction and reproductive medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zuzana Trebichalská
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, Masaryk University, Kamenice 5, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Zuzana Holubcová
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, Masaryk University, Kamenice 5, Brno, Czech Republic. .,Reprofit International, Clinic of Reproductive Medicine, Brno, Czech Republic.
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