1
|
Abdel Razik M, El-Berry S, El-Nezamy A, Saad A, Abdel Wahab A. Nitric oxide donors increase the pregnancy rate in patients with unexplained infertility undergoing clomiphene citrate stimulation and intrauterine insemination: a randomized controlled pilot study. Gynecol Endocrinol 2017; 33:199-202. [PMID: 27809622 DOI: 10.1080/09513590.2016.1240775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
Abstract
This study evaluated the effects of nitric oxide donor's treatment on the pregnancy rate and uterine blood flow in patients with unexplained infertility undergoing clomiphene citrate stimulation and intrauterine insemination. A total of 120 patients were randomly allocated to a control group who received 100 mg clomiphene citrate daily from day 5 to 9 of cycle plus placebo vaginal tablets, and a study group received clomiphene citrate plus isosorbide mononitrate 10 mg vaginal tablets. Vaginal ultrasound was done before treatment and every other day starting from day 12 of cycle to count mature follicles and ovulation was triggered by IM injection of 10 000 IU hCG when one follicle measured 18 ≥ mm followed by intrauterine insemination after 36 h. The endometrial thickness, uterine arteries resistance and pulsation indices, and endometrial vascular flow and vascular flow indices were measured before treatment and at day of hCG injection. Results were analyzed after one cycle treatment using the Mean ± SD, the Student t test and the Fisher Exact test. Significant result was considered at p values <0.05. The study group had significant higher pregnancy rate/cycle, higher endometrial and lower uterine artery blood flow indices (p < 0.05).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Abdel Razik
- a Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Benha Faculty of Medicine , Benha University , Benha , Egypt
| | - Seham El-Berry
- a Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Benha Faculty of Medicine , Benha University , Benha , Egypt
| | - Ahmed El-Nezamy
- a Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Benha Faculty of Medicine , Benha University , Benha , Egypt
| | - Ahmed Saad
- a Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Benha Faculty of Medicine , Benha University , Benha , Egypt
| | - Ahmed Abdel Wahab
- a Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Benha Faculty of Medicine , Benha University , Benha , Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Hu J, Ma S, Zou S, Li X, Cui P, Weijdegård B, Wu G, Shao R, Billig H, Feng Y. The regulation of nitric oxide synthase isoform expression in mouse and human fallopian tubes: potential insights for ectopic pregnancy. Int J Mol Sci 2014; 16:49-67. [PMID: 25546387 PMCID: PMC4307235 DOI: 10.3390/ijms16010049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2014] [Accepted: 12/17/2014] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Nitric oxide (NO) is highly unstable and has a half-life of seconds in buffer solutions. It is synthesized by NO-synthase (NOS), which has been found to exist in the following three isoforms: neuro nitric oxide synthase (nNOS), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS). NOS activity is localized in the reproductive tracts of many species, although direct evidence for NOS isoforms in the Fallopian tubes of mice is still lacking. In the present study, we investigated the expression and regulation of NOS isoforms in the mouse and human Fallopian tubes during the estrous and menstrual cycles, respectively. We also measured isoform expression in humans with ectopic pregnancy and in mice treated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Our results confirmed the presence of different NOS isoforms in the mouse and human Fallopian tubes during different stages of the estrous and menstrual cycles and showed that iNOS expression increased in the Fallopian tubes of women with ectopic pregnancy and in LPS-treated mice. Elevated iNOS activity might influence ovulation, cilia beats, contractility, and embryo transportation in such a manner as to increase the risk of ectopic pregnancy. This study has provided morphological and molecular evidence that NOS isoforms are present and active in the human and mouse Fallopian tubes and suggests that iNOS might play an important role in both the reproductive cycle and infection-induced ectopic pregnancies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Junting Hu
- Department of Integrative Medicine and Neurobiology, State Key Lab of Medical Neurobiology, Shanghai Medical College and Institute of Acupuncture Research (WHO Collaborating Center for Traditional Medicine), Institute of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China.
| | - Shulan Ma
- Department of Integrative Medicine and Neurobiology, State Key Lab of Medical Neurobiology, Shanghai Medical College and Institute of Acupuncture Research (WHO Collaborating Center for Traditional Medicine), Institute of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China.
| | - Sien Zou
- Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, China.
| | - Xin Li
- Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, China.
| | - Peng Cui
- Department of Integrative Medicine and Neurobiology, State Key Lab of Medical Neurobiology, Shanghai Medical College and Institute of Acupuncture Research (WHO Collaborating Center for Traditional Medicine), Institute of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China.
| | - Birgitta Weijdegård
- Department of Physiology and Endocrinology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, the Sahlgrenska Academy at University of Gothenburg, 40530 Gothenburg, Sweden.
| | - Gencheng Wu
- Department of Integrative Medicine and Neurobiology, State Key Lab of Medical Neurobiology, Shanghai Medical College and Institute of Acupuncture Research (WHO Collaborating Center for Traditional Medicine), Institute of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China.
| | - Ruijin Shao
- Department of Physiology and Endocrinology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, the Sahlgrenska Academy at University of Gothenburg, 40530 Gothenburg, Sweden.
| | - Håkan Billig
- Department of Physiology and Endocrinology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, the Sahlgrenska Academy at University of Gothenburg, 40530 Gothenburg, Sweden.
| | - Yi Feng
- Department of Integrative Medicine and Neurobiology, State Key Lab of Medical Neurobiology, Shanghai Medical College and Institute of Acupuncture Research (WHO Collaborating Center for Traditional Medicine), Institute of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Shao R, Zhang SX, Weijdegård B, Zou S, Egecioglu E, Norström A, Brännström M, Billig H. Nitric oxide synthases and tubal ectopic pregnancies induced by Chlamydia infection: basic and clinical insights. Mol Hum Reprod 2010; 16:907-15. [PMID: 20647263 PMCID: PMC2989829 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaq063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Human ectopic pregnancy (EP) remains a common cause of pregnancy-related first trimester death. Nitric oxide (NO) is synthesized from L-arginine by three NO synthases (NOS) in different tissues, including the Fallopian tube. Studies of knockout mouse models have improved our understanding of the function of NOS isoforms in reproduction, but their roles and specific mechanisms in infection-induced tubal dysfunction have not been fully elucidated. Here, we provide an overview of the expression, regulation and possible function of NOS isoforms in the Fallopian tube, highlighting the effects of infection-induced changes in the tubal cellular microenvironment (imbalance of NO production) on tubal dysfunction and the potential involvement of NOS isoforms in tubal EP after Chlamydia trachomatis genital infection. The non-equivalent regulation of tubal NOS isoforms during the menstrual cycle suggests that endogenous ovarian steroid hormones regulate NOS in an isoform-specific manner. The current literature suggests that infection with C. trachomatis induces an inflammatory response that eventually leads to tubal epithelial destruction and functional impairment, caused by a high NO output mediated by inducible NOS (iNOS). Therefore, tissue-specific therapeutic approaches to suppress iNOS expression may help to prevent ectopic implantation in patients with prior C. trachomatis infection of the Fallopian tube.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ruijin Shao
- Department of Physiology/Endocrinology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy at University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
4
|
Walch K, Kolbus A, Hefler-Frischmuth K. Polymorphisms of the endothelial nitric oxide synthase gene in premenopausal women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Maturitas 2008; 61:256-9. [PMID: 18804337 DOI: 10.1016/j.maturitas.2008.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2008] [Revised: 08/05/2008] [Accepted: 08/06/2008] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To investigate the association of two common genetic polymorphisms of the gene encoding for endothelial nitric oxide synthase (Nos3), the enzyme catalyzing the production of nitric oxide (NO), with occurrence of the polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). METHODS In a prospective case-control study, we analyzed 2 polymorphisms of the Nos3 gene cluster (Nos 3 exon 7 Glu298Asp and 27-base pair repeat in intron 4 of Nos3) in a series of 210 premenopausal Caucasian women with PCOS and 171 healthy controls using pyrosequencing and PCR, respectively. Women completed a detailed questionnaire and underwent a peripheral venous puncture, ultrasonography, and a standardized oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). RESULTS Genotype frequencies were not significantly different among women with PCOS and controls for the exon 7Nos3 and the intron 4Nos3 polymorphism (p=0.3 and 0.2, respectively). CONCLUSIONS In our series, two common polymorphisms of the Nos3 gene cluster were not associated with occurrence of PCOS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katharina Walch
- Elisabeth Vytiska-Binstorfer, Johannes Huber, Konstantin Baumühlner, René Wenzl, Fritz Nagele, Lukas Hefler, Austria.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
5
|
Pallares P, Garcia-Fernandez RA, Criado LM, Letelier CA, Esteban D, Fernandez-Toro JM, Flores JM, Gonzalez-Bulnes A. Disruption of the endothelial nitric oxide synthase gene affects ovulation, fertilization and early embryo survival in a knockout mouse model. Reproduction 2008; 136:573-9. [PMID: 18663015 DOI: 10.1530/rep-08-0272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Two consecutive experiments determined whether disruption of the endothelial nitric oxide synthases (NOS) gene (Nos3) affects ovulation, fertilization, implantation, and embryo development. In the first trial, Nos3-knockout mice (groups Nos3(-/-)) and wild-type mice (groups Nos3(+/+)) showed significant differences in mean number of corpora lutea (9.7+/-1.2 in Nos3(-/-) versus 14.2+/-1.2 in Nos3(+/+); P<0.01), rate of anovulation (48.3+/-7.3% in Nos3(-/-) versus 29.7+/-6.3 in Nos3(+/+); P<0.05), total mean number of recovered oocytes/zygotes (4.0+/-1.1 in Nos3(-/-) versus 10.4+/-1.6 in Nos3(+/+); P<0.01), and non-fertilization rate (50.7 in Nos3(-/-) versus 3.3% in Nos3(+/+); P<0.001). In the second trial, implantation and early pregnancy losses in Nos3-knockout and wild-type dams were detected by real-time ultrasound imaging. The number of embryos reaching implantation was higher in Nos3(+/+) than in Nos3(-/-) mice (7.5+/-0.4 vs 4.0+/-0.4; P<0.005); thereafter, embryo losses were detected between days 8.5 and 13.5, in 62.5% of the Nos3-knockout dams and, at days 10.5 and 11.5, in 16.7% of the control females (P<0.005). Thus, NO and NOS3 deficiencies affect reproductive and developmental features in the Nos3-knockout mouse model.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pilar Pallares
- Fundacion Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares Carlos III (CNIC), Melchor Fernandez Almagro 3, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
6
|
Mamo S, Sargent CA, Affara NA, Tesfaye D, El-Halawany N, Wimmers K, Gilles M, Schellander K, Ponsuksili S. Transcript profiles of some developmentally important genes detected in bovine oocytes and in vitro-produced blastocysts using RNA amplification and cDNA microarrays. Reprod Domest Anim 2007; 41:527-34. [PMID: 17107512 DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0531.2006.00708.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
To study the mRNA transcript profiles of some potential candidate developmental genes during bovine oocyte and blastocyst stages, RNA amplification procedures, cDNA microarray of 82 target genes spotted onto glass slide and real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) were used. Messenger RNAs were isolated from in vitro-produced bovine matured oocytes and blastocysts. Using equal amounts of input mRNAs but different cycles of amplifications, cDNAs were produced and served as template for RNA amplification by the in vitro transcriptions. After amplification, the RNA yields transcribed from cDNAs of different cycles were evaluated both by hybridization on the cDNA microarrays and by using real-time PCR techniques. The analyses indicated best results from lower amplification cycle templates with consistent signals at hybridization. Generally, the RNA yield was directly proportional to the amplification cycle but inversely related with signal consistency at repeated hybridizations. Using the protocols established, equal amounts of amplified RNA from matured oocytes and blastocysts were hybridized to the array. Analyses of replicated hybridizations indicated that 35 transcripts were differentially expressed. Most of these were not described in previous bovine embryo studies. Independent analyses of 23 transcripts with real-time PCR and unamplified RNA confirmed the results of 22 genes. Moreover, the functional analyses showed various roles related to development. Hence, it is possible to conclude that the genes identified here are potential candidates for characterizing developmental competence, and that the methods established can be used for large-scale gene expression analysis with more comprehensive arrays.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S Mamo
- Institute of Animal Breeding Sciences, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
7
|
Worda C, Walch K, Sator M, Eppel W, Tempfer CB, Schneeberger C, Huber JC, Hefler LA. The influence of Nos3 polymorphisms on age at menarche and natural menopause. Maturitas 2004; 49:157-62. [PMID: 15474760 DOI: 10.1016/j.maturitas.2004.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2003] [Revised: 12/09/2003] [Accepted: 01/07/2004] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Deficiency of the gene encoding endothelial nitric oxide synthase, i.e. Nos3, has been reported to be associated with late menarche, reduced ovulation rates, fewer deliveries, and earlier onset of menopause in a mouse model. METHODS We assessed the Glu298Asp and the T-786C polymorphisms of Nos3 in 87 consecutive healthy postmenopausal women by pyro- and capillary-sequencing, respectively. Results were correlated with age at menarche and natural menopause, number of miscarriages and live births, as well as body mass index (BMI) and smoking habits. RESULTS Allelic frequencies of the Glu298Asp polymorphism of Nos3 were 121 (69.5%) and 53 (30.5%) for the wild-type G allele and the mutant T allele, respectively. Forty-one women (47.1%) were homozygote wild-type (G/G), 39 (44.9%) were heterozygote (G/T), and 7 (8.0%) were homozygote mutant (T/T). Allelic frequencies of the T-786C polymorphism of Nos3 were 105 (60.6%) and 69 (39.4%) for the wild-type T allele and the mutant C allele, respectively. Thirty-three women (38.0%) were homozygote wild-type (T/T), 39 (45.1%) were heterozygote (T/C), and 15 (16.9%) were homozygote mutant (C/C). Presence of at least one mutant allele of the Glu298Asp or the T-786C polymorphisms of Nos3 were not associated with age at menarche, natural menopause, and number of miscarriages and deliveries. BMI above 27 kg/m2 and smoking were associated with earlier onset of natural menopause (47.8 years versus 50.2 years (P = 0.01) and 46.8 years versus 49.8 years (p = 0.02)). CONCLUSIONS Our data show that smoking and increased BMI, but not Glu298Asp or the T-786C polymorphisms of Nos3, are associated with an early onset of natural menopause.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christof Worda
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Vienna Medical School, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, A-1090 Vienna, Austria.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
8
|
Tranguch S, Huet-Hudson Y. Decreased viability of nitric oxide synthase double knockout mice. Mol Reprod Dev 2003; 65:175-9. [PMID: 12704728 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.10274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Nitric oxide acts as an important intracellular messenger in a variety of systems, including reproduction. Previous studies have shown the importance of nitric oxide in embryo development. NO is produced from l-arginine by the enzyme, nitric oxide synthase (NOS), which has three isoforms: endothelial (NOS3), neural (NOS1), and inducible (NOS2). We hypothesize that, because of the importance of NOS in development, at least two NOS isoforms are required in order for normal embryo development to occur. Through the generation of NOS3/NOS2, NOS3/NOS1, and NOS2/NOS1 double knockout mice, we found that while litter size remains unchanged, the expected number of generated double knockout mice varies significantly from what would be predicted by Mendelian genetics. Estrous cycles were similar for both DKO and the wild-type mice, and both groups were deemed fertile by their ability to mate with wild-type (CD-1) mice. Together, these results lead us to conclude that the lack of two NOS isoforms leads to a decreased viability in mice because of a developmental problem in the double knockout embryo.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Susanne Tranguch
- Department of Biology, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, 9201 University City Boulevard, Charlotte, NC 28223, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
9
|
Tranguch S, Steuerwald N, Huet-Hudson YM. Nitric oxide synthase production and nitric oxide regulation of preimplantation embryo development. Biol Reprod 2003; 68:1538-44. [PMID: 12606428 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.102.009282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Nitric oxide (NO) production plays an important role in regulating preimplantation embryo development. NO is produced from l-arginine by the enzyme nitric oxide synthase (NOS), which has three isoforms: endothelial (eNOS), neuronal (nNOS), and inducible (iNOS). It has been previously shown that inhibition of NO production by NG-nitro-l-arginine (l-NA) inhibits the development of two-cell embryos to the four-cell stage. However, excess NO also halts embryo development, possibly through the production of free radicals. We hypothesize that multiple NOS isoforms are expressed in order to ensure normal preimplantation embryo development and that, in this process, NO acts through the cGMP pathway. Using reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction, mRNA for all three NOS isoforms was amplified from two-cell, four-cell, morula, and blastocyst embryos. However, blastocyst-stage embryos isolated midmorning on Day 4 of pregnancy expressed only nNOS and eNOS, whereas those isolated midafternoon again expressed all three NOS isoforms. Culture of one-cell embryos in various concentrations of Whitten (positive control), S-nitroso-N-acetylpenicillamine (SNP, a NO donor), l-NA, and/or 8-Br-cGMP demonstrated that NO is acting, at least in part, through cGMP in preimplantation embryo development. In addition, we determined that a critical concentration of NO and cGMP is required for normal embryo development and deviations from this concentration lead to developmental arrest and/or apoptosis of the embryo. This data provides support for a requirement of NO in preimplantation embryo development and one mechanism through which it regulates mitotic division in these embryos.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Susanne Tranguch
- Department of Biology, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, 28223, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
10
|
Hefler LA, Worda C, Huber JC, Tempfer CB. A polymorphism of the Nos3 gene and age at natural menopause. Fertil Steril 2002; 78:1184-6. [PMID: 12477509 DOI: 10.1016/s0015-0282(02)04277-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
To investigate the possible influence of a polymorphism of the Nos3 gene on menarche and onset of menopause in humans. Cohort study.Academic research institution.Ninety-one consecutive Caucasian postmenopausal women. Peripheral venous puncture and a patient questionnaire were administered.A tandem repeat polymorphism in intron 4 of Nos3 was analyzed by polymerase chain reaction amplification. The common B allele was identified on 143 of 182 chromosomes (frequency 0.79). The polymorphic A allele was present on 39 chromosomes (frequency 0.21). The genotype frequencies were as follows: 58.2% (B/B), 40.7% (A/B), and 1.1% (A/A). Age at menarche, number of deliveries, number of miscarriages, and onset of menopause did not differ between genotypes. Smoking and increased body mass index were associated with an earlier onset of natural menopause.In contrast to mouse models, in humans Nos3 does not seem to modulate onset and cessation of menses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lukas A Hefler
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Vienna Medical School, Vienna, Austria.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
11
|
Hefler LA, Ludwig E, Lampe D, Zeillinger R, Leodolter S, Gitsch G, Koelbl H, Tempfer CB. Polymorphisms of the endothelial nitric oxide synthase gene in ovarian cancer. Gynecol Oncol 2002; 86:134-7. [PMID: 12144818 DOI: 10.1006/gyno.2002.6749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The free radical nitric oxide is known to be critically involved in ovarian carcinogenesis by inducing apoptosis and by mediating various cytostatic and cytotoxic effects, but also by promoting growth, invasion, and metastasis. METHODS We investigated two polymorphisms (exon 7 Glu298Asp and a 27-bp repeat in intron 4) of the gene encoding endothelial nitric oxide synthase (Nos3) in 130 patients with ovarian cancer, 26 patients with borderline ovarian cancer, and 133 healthy age-matched Caucasian women using PCR and pyrosequencing, respectively. RESULTS Genotypes and allelic frequencies did not differ between patients with ovarian cancer and controls. Within the ovarian cancer group, however, the presence of at least one mutant allele of intron 4 was associated with advanced tumor stage and positive lymph node involvement, but not with tumor grading. The presence of the mutant allele of exon 7 was not associated with the investigated clinicopathological parameters. No correlation with patients' overall and disease-free survival was ascertained. CONCLUSIONS We are the first to report on Nos3 polymorphisms in ovarian cancer. Allelic variation within intron 4 of Nos3 is associated with an advanced tumor stage and positive lymph node involvement in ovarian cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lukas A Hefler
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Vienna Medical School, Vienna, Austria
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
Gyurko R, Leupen S, Huang PL. Deletion of exon 6 of the neuronal nitric oxide synthase gene in mice results in hypogonadism and infertility. Endocrinology 2002; 143:2767-74. [PMID: 12072412 DOI: 10.1210/endo.143.7.8921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 117] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Nitric oxide (NO) has been recognized as a modulator in reproductive functions, but it is not clear whether NO is required for fertility. The first line of mice deficient in neuronal NO synthase (referred to herein as KN1 mice) reproduce normally. However, residual neuronal NO synthase (nNOS) activity is detected in KN1 mice due to the expression of beta- and gamma-nNOS splice variants. We generated a new line of nNOS knockout mice (KN2) lacking exon 6, which codes for the heme-binding domain of nNOS. KN2 mice are viable, but mated homozygotes do not produce litters, indicating that either one or both sexes are infertile. Male KN2 mice show decreased gonad weights, but sperm counts are normal. KN2 males do not display mating behavior, and consequently do not leave vaginal plugs when housed with wild-type (WT) females. KN2 females show decreased ovary weight, and histology reveals decreased corpus luteum counts. RIAs show that KN2 males have decreased plasma FSH, whereas KN2 females have increased levels of plasma LH and increased hypothalamic GnRH content. Experimental ovarian transplantation suggests that central, rather than ovarian, processes are influenced by nNOS, as KN2 ovaries ovulate at near-normal rates under WT hormonal control, whereas WT ovaries transplanted into KN2 mice have decreased ovulation rates. We observed pyloric stenosis in KN2 mice, but plasma leptin levels are normal, and no ketones are found, indicating that hypogonadism is not a result of malnutrition. We conclude that nNOS is required for normal central hormonal regulation of reproductive function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robert Gyurko
- Cardiovascular Research Center and Reproductive Endocrine Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston 02129, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Hefler LA, Gregg AR. Inducible and endothelial nitric oxide synthase: genetic background affects ovulation in mice. Fertil Steril 2002; 77:147-51. [PMID: 11779605 DOI: 10.1016/s0015-0282(01)02952-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Inducible nitric oxide synthase (NOS) and endothelial NOS are involved in female reproductive physiology. We sought to investigate the influence of the inducible (Nos2) and endothelial (Nos3) NOS genes as a function of genetic background on ovulatory capacity and early embryonic development in a mouse model. DESIGN Observational study of genetically altered mice and their response to a superovulation protocol. SETTING Academic research institution. ANIMALS Wild-type mice and mice deficient for Nos2 or Nos3 were bred to C57BL/6J and 129/Sv genetic backgrounds. INTERVENTION(S) Superovulation protocol, oocyte culture. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Number of oocytes harvested, early embryonic development of zygotes, evaluation of ovarian histology. RESULT(S) The mean number of oocytes was significantly reduced in Nos3 deficient mice on a C57BL/6J background compared with controls. Oocytes deficient for Nos3 on a C57BL/6J background also showed reduced progression to two-cell stage embryos after 24 hours, two-cell stage embryos to blastocyst stage embryos, and survival to 48 hours. Those effects were distinctly absent in mice deficient for Nos3 on a 129/Sv background and in mice deficient for Nos2 on either genetic background. CONCLUSION(S) Our data show that disruption of Nos2 had no effect on ovulation in our mice. The negative effect of Nos3 deficiency on ovulatory capacity and early embryonic development is modulated by genetic background. This suggests a role for strain-specific modifier genes in these processes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lukas A Hefler
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The tissue-bound ovarian renin-angiotensin system (OVRAS) is critically involved in ovulation in humans and rodents. Mice with disruption and overexpression of the angiotensinogen gene (Agt) have been previously generated. We investigated the influence of varying Agt gene expression on the ovulatory capacity and early embryonic development in mice. DESIGN Observational study of genetically altered mice and their response to a superovulation protocol. SETTING Academic research institution. ANIMAL(S) Mice with varying copy numbers of Agt (one copy: n = 48; two copies: n = 51; three copies: n = 20; four copies: n = 24). INTERVENTION(S) Superovulation protocol, oocyte culture. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Number of oocytes harvested, early embryonic development of zygotes, evaluation of ovarian histology, serum estradiol measurements. RESULT(S) The mean number of oocytes harvested was greatest in wild-type mice (two copies of Agt, 39.9 +/- 14) with a reduction of ovulatory capacity in mice overexpressing Agt (three copies [34.8 +/- 11.7] and four copies [31.2 +/- 12.4], P =.026). Mice with one copy of Agt showed a slight decrease of ovulatory capacity compared to wild-type mice (35.8 +/- 15.2, P =.29). Ovarian histology, serum estradiol levels, and early embryonic development were independent of the Agt genotype. CONCLUSION(S) Overexpression of Agt was associated with reduced ovulatory capacity, but with none of the other parameters that were evaluated. These findings support an important role of the ovarian renin-angiotensin system in the process of follicular rupture.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- L A Hefler
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
Chen HW, Jiang WS, Tzeng CR. Nitric oxide as a regulator in preimplantation embryo development and apoptosis. Fertil Steril 2001; 75:1163-71. [PMID: 11384644 DOI: 10.1016/s0015-0282(01)01780-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the mechanisms of nitric oxide (NO) in the development and apoptosis of preimplantation mouse embryos. DESIGN Prospective, controlled study. SETTING Medical college laboratory. SUBJECT(S) Two-cell embryos from outbred ICR mice. INTERVENTION(S) Hyperstimulation protocol, two-cell embryos were collected, then treated with or without an NO synthase inhibitor (L-NAME) or an NO donor (SNP) and combined with a cGMP analogue (8-Br-cGMP) or a selective inhibitor of NO-sensitive soluble guanylyl cyclase (ODQ). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) The development of ICR mouse embryo from two cells to blastocyst stages in vitro. RESULT(S) The development of blastocyst was inhibited by L-NAME in a concentration-dependent manner (0.1-10 microM) and 0.1 microM SNP reversed this effect (80.5% of control). Annexin-V/propidium iodide and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick end-labeling techniques demonstrated that excessive NO (> or =10 microM) might induce apoptosis in the mouse embryos. 8-Br-cGMP reversed the inhibitory effect of L-NAME and rescued the embryo growth. ODQ inhibited the embryo development in a dose-responsive fashion (0.1--100 microM) but had no effect in the NO-induced embryo apoptosis. P53 and Bax were found to be up-regulated during the embryo fragmentation. CONCLUSION(S) These results indicate that the cGMP pathway might be involved in the NO-regulated embryonic development, but not in NO-induced apoptosis, for which P53/Bax pathway might be involved.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- H W Chen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Taipei Medical College, Taipei, Taiwan
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
Hefler LA, Reyes CA, O'Brien WE, Gregg AR. Perinatal development of endothelial nitric oxide synthase-deficient mice. Biol Reprod 2001; 64:666-73. [PMID: 11159371 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod64.2.666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the influence of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) deficiency on fetal growth, perinatal survival, and limb development in a mouse model with a targeted mutagenesis of the Nos3 gene. Wild-type (Nos3+/+) and eNOS-deficient fetuses (Nos3-/-) were evaluated on Gestational Day (E)15 and E17, and newborn pups were observed on Day 1 of life (D1). The average term duration of pregnancy was 19 days. For the evaluation of postnatal development, a breeding scheme consisting of Nos3+/- x Nos3+/- and Nos3-/- x Nos3-/- mice was established, and offspring were observed for 3 wk. Southern blotting was used for genotyping. No significant differences in fetal weight, crown-rump lengths (CRL), and placental weight were seen between Nos3+/+ and Nos3-/- fetuses on E15. By E17, Nos3-/- fetuses showed significantly reduced fetal weights, CRL, and placental weights. This difference in body weight was also seen throughout the whole postnatal period. In pregnancies of Nos3-/- females, the average number of pups alive on D1 was significantly decreased compared to either E15 or E17. Placental histology revealed no abnormalities. On E15, E17, and D1, Nos3(-/-) fetuses demonstrated focal acute hemorrhages in the distal limbs in 0%, 2.6%, and 5.7%, respectively, of all mutant mice studied on the respective days. Bone measurements showed significantly shorter bones in the peripheral digits of hindpaws of Nos3-/- newborns. We conclude mice deficient for eNOS show characteristically abnormal prenatal and postnatal development including fetal growth restriction, reduced survival, and an increased rate of limb abnormalities. The development of this characteristic phenotype of eNOS-deficient mice dates back to the prenatal development during the late third trimester of pregnancy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- L A Hefler
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Hefler LA, Tempfer CB, Moreno RM, O'Brien WE, Gregg AR. Endothelial-derived nitric oxide and angiotensinogen: blood pressure and metabolism during mouse pregnancy. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 2001; 280:R174-82. [PMID: 11124149 DOI: 10.1152/ajpregu.2001.280.1.r174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The regulation of blood pressure during pregnancy involves several biological pathways. Candidate genes implicated in hypertensive diseases during pregnancy include those of the renin-angiotensin system and nitric oxide synthase (NOS). We evaluated blood pressure and metabolic characteristics during pregnancy in mutant mice. These included mice with a null mutation in the endothelial NOS (eNOS) gene (Nos3(-/-)), four copies of the angiotensinogen gene (Agt(2/2)), and mutations in both genes [four copies of Agt and heterozygous deficient for eNOS (Agt(2/2)Nos3(+/-)), four copies of Agt and homozygous deficient for eNOS (Agt(2/2)Nos3(-/-))]. Blood pressure measurements of nulliparous females from mutant strains were compared with two common laboratory strains C57Bl6/J and SV129 throughout their first pregnancy. Serum and urine analysis for the evaluation of renal and liver physiology were measured in the prepregnant state and during the third trimester of pregnancy. Throughout pregnancy blood pressures in all mutant strains were higher compared with controls. Agt(2/2)Nos3(-/-) showed the highest blood pressures and C57Bl6/J the lowest. Control mice, but not mutant mice, showed a second trimester decline in blood pressure. No immediate differences were noted regarding behavioral characteristics, renal or liver function parameters. Mice deficient for eNOS, mice with overexpression of Agt, and mice with mutations in both genes demonstrated higher blood pressure throughout pregnancy. There was no evidence of renal dysfunction, liver dysfunction, or hemolysis among any of the strains studied. We conclude that Nos3 and Agt are important genes in the regulation of blood pressure during pregnancy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- L A Hefler
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|