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Hassaneen ASA, Rawy MS, Yamanokuchi E, Elgendy O, Kawano T, Wakitani S, Kitahara G, Osawa T. Use of platelet lysate for in-vitro embryo production and treatment of repeat breeding in cows. Theriogenology 2023; 210:199-206. [PMID: 37523941 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.07.034] [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: 04/08/2023] [Revised: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2023]
Abstract
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is a biological hemocomponent derived from blood after the complete removal of red blood cells and the partial or complete removal of white blood cells to concentrate platelets in an appropriate volume of plasma. Platelets have important growth factors, cytokines, and active metabolites that improve the endometrial environment and positively affect implantation. This study evaluated the effect of the addition of activated PRP (platelets lysate; PL) on in vitro bovine oocyte maturation and embryonic development and the effect of intrauterine (IU) infusion of autologous PL in repeat breeder (RB) cows. Experiment 1 examined the effects of allogeneic PL, fetal calf serum (FCS), mixed PL + FCS, or platelet-poor plasma (PPP) supplementations to in vitro maturation and development media on in vitro oocyte maturation and embryo development in good- and poor-quality oocytes of Japanese Black cows. Experiment 2 examined the IU infusion of autologous PL, 24 h post-insemination, in 21 RB Holstein-Friesian dairy cows. The cleavage rate of good-quality oocytes was higher in the PL group (85.93 ± 2.50%) than in the PPP group (67.16 ± 3.41%) (P < 0.05), while the cleavage rate of the poor-quality oocytes was higher in the PL alone (76.13 ± 4.04%) and mixed PL + FCS treated (73.59 ± 4.22%) groups than in the PPP group (54.64 ± 2.93%) (P < 0.05). The blastocyst rate of the good-quality oocytes was higher in the PL group (40.97 ± 3.03%) than in the FCS (27.97 ± 3.31%) and PPP (25.33 ± 2.15%) groups (P < 0.05). The blastocyst rate of poor-quality oocytes and the hatching rates of both good and poor-quality oocytes showed no significant differences among all groups. The conception rate in the autologous PL-treated group was 41.67% (5/12), while it was 11.11% (1/9) in the control group. The platelets' count in the pregnant PL-treated cows (n = 5; mean ± SEM, 1.07 ± 0.10 × 109/mL) was higher than in the non-pregnant ones (n = 7; 0.67 ± 0.10 × 109/mL) (P < 0.05). In conclusion, allogeneic PL was effective in stimulating the in vitro oocyte maturation and embryonic development in both good and poor-quality bovine oocytes, and post-insemination IU infusion of autologous PL derived from high platelets' count-PRP would be recommended for the treatment of RB cows.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Saad Ahmed Hassaneen
- Department of Theriogenology, Obstetrics, and Artificial Insemination, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, South Valley University, 83523, Qena, Egypt; Laboratory of Theriogenology, Department of Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki, 889-2192, Japan.
| | - Mohamed Sadawy Rawy
- Laboratory of Theriogenology, Department of Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki, 889-2192, Japan; Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Minia University, Minia, Egypt.
| | - Eigo Yamanokuchi
- Laboratory of Theriogenology, Department of Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki, 889-2192, Japan.
| | - Omnia Elgendy
- Laboratory of Theriogenology, Department of Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki, 889-2192, Japan; Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Benha University, Qalyobia, 13736, Egypt.
| | - Takanori Kawano
- Miyazaki Agricultural Mutual Aid Association, Shintomi, Miyazaki, 889-1406, Japan.
| | - Shoichi Wakitani
- Laboratory of Veterinary Anatomy, Department of Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki, 889-2192, Japan.
| | - Go Kitahara
- Laboratory of Theriogenology, Department of Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki, 889-2192, Japan.
| | - Takeshi Osawa
- Laboratory of Theriogenology, Department of Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki, 889-2192, Japan.
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Lodde V, Luciano AM, Musmeci G, Miclea I, Tessaro I, Aru M, Albertini DF, Franciosi F. A Nuclear and Cytoplasmic Characterization of Bovine Oocytes Reveals That Cysteamine Partially Rescues the Embryo Development in a Model of Low Ovarian Reserve. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11071936. [PMID: 34209664 PMCID: PMC8300191 DOI: 10.3390/ani11071936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2021] [Revised: 06/16/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Women’s reproductive performance starts declining in the mid-30s, and by age 40–45, the possibility of becoming pregnant becomes very small. Reproductive aging is a physiological process of fertility decline characterized by a decrease in quality and stockpile of eggs (also called ovarian reserve) in most mammals. However, young individuals too can show an accelerated reproductive aging that similarly results in a low ovarian reserve and hypofertility. This syndrome, called premature ovarian failure (POF), is becoming a relevant problem due to the general tendency to postpone the first pregnancy. In this study, we used bovine ovaries that were classified in two categories, according to the number of follicles visible on the ovarian surface, and analyzed some parameters of egg maturation. We observed that eggs from the ‘aging-like’ ovaries carry several defects that impair maturation. However, one of the parameters was improved upon supplementation with a scavenger of free radicals, providing a proof of concept that in-depth knowledge of the cellular mechanisms is essential to find solutions to everyday-life problems. Abstract Decreased oocyte quality is a major determinant of age-associated fertility decline. Similarly, individuals affected by early ovarian aging carry low-quality oocytes. Using an established bovine model of early ovarian aging, we investigated key features of ‘quality’ oocyte maturation, associated with the onset of egg aneuploidy and reproductive aging, such as histone modifications, mitochondria distribution and activity, reduced glutathione (GSH) content, and gap junction functionality. Bovine ovaries were classified according to the antral follicle count (AFC), and the retrieved oocytes were processed immediately or matured in vitro. We observed alterations in several cellular processes, suggesting a multifactorial etiology of the reduced oocyte quality. Furthermore, we performed a rescue experiment for one of the parameters considered. By adding cysteamine to the maturation medium, we experimentally increased the free radical scavenger ability of the ‘low competence’ oocytes and obtained a higher embryo development. Our findings show that adopting culture conditions that counteract the free radicals has a positive impact on the quality of ‘compromised’ oocytes. Specifically, cysteamine treatment seems to be a promising option for treating aging-related deficiencies in embryo development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Lodde
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Lab., Dipartimento di Scienze Veterinarie per la Salute la Produzione Animale e la Sicurezza Alimentare ‘Carlo Cantoni’, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133 Milano, Italy; (V.L.); (A.M.L.); (G.M.); (I.T.); (M.A.)
| | - Alberto Maria Luciano
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Lab., Dipartimento di Scienze Veterinarie per la Salute la Produzione Animale e la Sicurezza Alimentare ‘Carlo Cantoni’, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133 Milano, Italy; (V.L.); (A.M.L.); (G.M.); (I.T.); (M.A.)
| | - Giulia Musmeci
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Lab., Dipartimento di Scienze Veterinarie per la Salute la Produzione Animale e la Sicurezza Alimentare ‘Carlo Cantoni’, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133 Milano, Italy; (V.L.); (A.M.L.); (G.M.); (I.T.); (M.A.)
| | - Ileana Miclea
- Faculty of Animal Science and Biotechnologies, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
| | - Irene Tessaro
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Lab., Dipartimento di Scienze Veterinarie per la Salute la Produzione Animale e la Sicurezza Alimentare ‘Carlo Cantoni’, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133 Milano, Italy; (V.L.); (A.M.L.); (G.M.); (I.T.); (M.A.)
| | - Mariella Aru
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Lab., Dipartimento di Scienze Veterinarie per la Salute la Produzione Animale e la Sicurezza Alimentare ‘Carlo Cantoni’, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133 Milano, Italy; (V.L.); (A.M.L.); (G.M.); (I.T.); (M.A.)
| | | | - Federica Franciosi
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Lab., Dipartimento di Scienze Veterinarie per la Salute la Produzione Animale e la Sicurezza Alimentare ‘Carlo Cantoni’, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133 Milano, Italy; (V.L.); (A.M.L.); (G.M.); (I.T.); (M.A.)
- Correspondence:
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Oocyte Selection for In Vitro Embryo Production in Bovine Species: Noninvasive Approaches for New Challenges of Oocyte Competence. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10122196. [PMID: 33255250 PMCID: PMC7760727 DOI: 10.3390/ani10122196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Revised: 11/17/2020] [Accepted: 11/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The efficiency of producing embryos using in vitro technologies in cattle species remains lower when compared to mice, indicating that the proportion of female gametes that fail to develop after in vitro manipulation is considerably large. Considering that the intrinsic quality of the oocyte is one of the main factors affecting embryo production, the precise identification of noninvasive markers that predict oocyte competence is of major interest. The aim of this review was to explore the current literature on different noninvasive markers associated with oocyte quality in the bovine model. Apart from some controversial findings, the presence of cycle-related structures in ovaries, a follicle size between 6 and 10 mm, a large slightly expanded investment without dark areas, large oocyte diameter (>120 microns), dark cytoplasm, and the presence of a round and smooth first polar body have been associated with better embryonic development. In addition, the combination of oocyte and zygote selection, spindle imaging, and the anti-Stokes Raman scattering microscopy together with studies decoding molecular cues in oocyte maturation have the potential to further optimize the identification of oocytes with better developmental competence for in vitro technologies in livestock species. Abstract The efficiency of producing embryos using in vitro technologies in livestock species rarely exceeds the 30–40% threshold, indicating that the proportion of oocytes that fail to develop after in vitro fertilization and culture is considerably large. Considering that the intrinsic quality of the oocyte is one of the main factors affecting blastocyst yield, the precise identification of noninvasive cellular or molecular markers that predict oocyte competence is of major interest to research and practical applications. The aim of this review was to explore the current literature on different noninvasive markers associated with oocyte quality in the bovine model. Apart from some controversial findings, the presence of cycle-related structures in ovaries, a follicle size between 6 and 10 mm, large number of surrounding cumulus cells, slightly expanded investment without dark areas, large oocyte diameter (>120 microns), dark cytoplasm, and the presence of a round and smooth first polar body have been associated with better competence. In addition, the combination of oocyte and zygote selection via brilliant cresyl blue (BCB) test, spindle imaging, and the anti-Stokes Raman scattering microscopy together with studies decoding molecular cues in oocyte maturation have the potential to further optimize the identification of oocytes with better developmental competence for in-vitro-derived technologies in livestock species.
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Implications of miRNA expression pattern in bovine oocytes and follicular fluids for developmental competence. Theriogenology 2020; 145:77-85. [PMID: 32004821 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.01.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2019] [Revised: 12/23/2019] [Accepted: 01/13/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Developmental competence determines the oocyte capacity to support initial embryo growth, but the molecular mechanisms underlying this phenomenon are still ill-defined. Changes in microRNA (miRNA) expression pattern have been described during follicular growth in several species. Therefore, aim of this study was to investigate whether miRNA expression pattern in cow oocyte and follicular fluid (FF) is associated with the acquisition of developmental competence. Samples were collected from ovaries with more than, or fewer than, 10 mid-antral follicles (H- and L-ovaries) because previous studies demonstrated that this parameter is a reliable predictor of oocyte competence. After miRNA deep sequencing and bioinformatic data analysis, we identified 58 miRNAs in FF and 6 in the oocyte that were differentially expressed between H- and L-ovaries. Overall, our results indicate that miRNA levels both in FF and in the ooplasm must remain within specific thresholds and that changes in either direction compromising oocyte competence. Some of the miRNAs found in FF (miR-769, miR-1343, miR-450a, miR-204, miR-1271 and miR-451) where already known to regulate follicle growth and their expression pattern indicate that they are also involved in the acquisition of developmental competence. Some miRNAs were differentially expressed in both compartments but with opposite patterns, suggesting that miRNAs do not flow freely between FF and oocyte. Gene Ontology analysis showed that the predicted gene targets of most differentially expressed miRNAs are part of a few signalling pathways. Regulation of maternal mRNA storage and mitochondrial activity seem to be the processes more functionally relevant in determining oocyte quality. In conclusion, our data identified a few miRNAs in the follicular fluid and in the ooplasm that modulate the oocyte developmental competence. This provides new insights that could help with the management of cattle reproductive efficiency.
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5
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Kafi M, Ashrafi M, Azari M, Jandarroodi B, Abouhamzeh B, Asl AR. Niacin improves maturation and cryo-tolerance of bovine in vitro matured oocytes: An experimental study. Int J Reprod Biomed 2019; 17:621-628. [PMID: 31646256 PMCID: PMC6804331 DOI: 10.18502/ijrm.v17i9.5096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2018] [Revised: 03/06/2019] [Accepted: 05/08/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Nicotinic acid (niacin) is a broad-spectrum lipid-modifying agent that has potent antioxidant properties and reduces the production of lipid peroxidation. Objective The purpose of the present study was to investigate the maturation, embryo development and cryo-tolerance merit, and levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), total oxidant status, and total antioxidant capacity following the supplementation of bovine oocytes maturation medium with different concentrations of niacin. Materials and Methods Immature cumulus-oocyte complexes were cultured in tissue culture medium-199 maturation media supplemented with 0, 100, 200, and 400 µM niacin under a standard in vitro culture condition. After 24 hr of culture, the nuclear maturation rate was assessed. Then, two groups of immature cumulus-oocyte complexes were cultured in TCM-199 either with or without 400 µM niacin and evaluated for embryo development. Also, matured cumulus-oocyte complexes in both groups were frozen using a standard vitrification procedure. After vitrification, oocytes were warmed in two steps and evaluated for embryo development. In addition, the level of total antioxidant capacity, total oxidant status, and MDA were measured. Results The results indicated that although the treatment with 400 µM niacin increased in vitro nuclear maturation (87.6±5.3), it did not improved the embryo development to the blastocyst stage. Higher cleavage and blastocyst rates were observed in vitrified oocytes that were cultured with supplemented 400 µM niacin compared to the control group (without niacin) (53.6±2.7 and 10.6±1.6 vs. 46.2±4.1 and 6.3±2.4, respectively). Also, the addition of 400 μM niacin to the maturation media could decrease MDA levels after maturation. Conclusion Niacin could improve the quality of in vitro embryo production (IVP) embryos and tolerance of bovine oocytes to vitrification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mojtaba Kafi
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine, Shiraz University Shiraz Iran
| | - Mahboobeh Ashrafi
- Department of Basic Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Shiraz University Shiraz Iran
| | - Mehdi Azari
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine, Shiraz University Shiraz Iran
| | - Borhan Jandarroodi
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine, Shiraz University Shiraz Iran
| | - Beheshteh Abouhamzeh
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, AJA University of Medical Sciences Tehran Iran
| | - Arash Rakhshi Asl
- Department of Basic Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Shiraz University Shiraz Iran
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Oocyte maturation, embryo development and gene expression following two different methods of bovine cumulus-oocyte complexes vitrification. Vet Res Commun 2016; 41:49-56. [DOI: 10.1007/s11259-016-9671-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2016] [Accepted: 12/05/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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7
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H. Abd El- A, E. Mahrous U, Z. Kamel S, A. Sabek A. Factors Influencing in vitro Production of Bovine Embryos: A Review. ASIAN JOURNAL OF ANIMAL AND VETERINARY ADVANCES 2016; 11:737-756. [DOI: 10.3923/ajava.2016.737.756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
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8
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Perkel KJ, Tscherner A, Merrill C, Lamarre J, Madan P. The ART of selecting the best embryo: A review of early embryonic mortality and bovine embryo viability assessment methods. Mol Reprod Dev 2015; 82:822-38. [PMID: 26184077 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.22525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2014] [Accepted: 07/10/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Animal reproductive biotechnology is continually evolving. Significant advances have been made in our understanding of early embryonic mortality and embryo development in domestic animals, which has improved the selection and success of in vitro technologies. Yet our knowledge is still relatively limited such that identifying a single embryo with the highest chance of survival and development for transfer remains challenging. While invasive methods such as embryo biopsy can provide useful information regarding the genetic status of the embryos, morphological assessment remains the most common evaluation. A recent shift, however, favors alternative, adjunct approaches for non-invasive assessment of an embryo's viability and developmental potential. Various analytical techniques have facilitated the evaluation of cellular health through the metabolome, the assessment of end products of cellular metabolism, or by analyzing spent media for small RNAs. This review discusses the application of noninvasive approaches for ascertaining the health and viability of in vitro-produced bovine embryos. A comparative analysis of noninvasive techniques for embryo assessment currently being investigated in cattle and humans is also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kayla J Perkel
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Allison Tscherner
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Casandra Merrill
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jonathan Lamarre
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Pavneesh Madan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
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Modina SC, Tessaro I, Lodde V, Franciosi F, Corbani D, Luciano AM. Reductions in the number of mid-sized antral follicles are associated with markers of premature ovarian senescence in dairy cows. Reprod Fertil Dev 2014; 26:235-44. [PMID: 23327793 DOI: 10.1071/rd12295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2012] [Accepted: 11/26/2012] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
High-producing dairy cows are subfertile; however, the mechanisms responsible for the decreased fertility are unknown. The aim of the present study was to test the hypothesis that culled dairy cows (4-8 years old) characterised by 'Lo' ovaries (i.e. those with <10 mid-antral follicles) are affected by premature ovarian senescence. Cows in which both ovaries were 'Lo' ovaries represented 5% of the total population analysed, and exhibited reduced ovarian size (P<0.001) and increased perifollicular stroma (P<0.05) compared with age-matched controls (i.e. cows in which both ovaries had >10 mid-antral follicles; 'Hi' ovaries). The total number of follicles, including healthy and atretic primordial, primary, secondary and small antral follicles, was lower in Lo ovaries (P<0.01). Interestingly, the primordial follicle population in Lo ovaries was lower (P<0.05) than in the control. Finally, the follicular fluid of mid-antral follicles from Lo ovaries had reduced oestradiol and anti-Müllerian hormone levels (P<0.05), but increased progesterone concentrations (P<0.05). Together, these data account for the reduced fertility of cows with Lo ovaries and are in agreement with previous observations that oocytes isolated from Lo ovaries have reduced embryonic developmental competence. Cows with a specific Lo ovary condition may represent a suitable model to address the causes of low fertility in high-yielding dairy cows, as well as the condition of premature ovarian aging in single-ovulating species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia C Modina
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, Department of Health, Animal Sciences and Food Safety, Università degli Studi di Milano, via G. Celoria 10, 20133, Milano, Italy
| | - Irene Tessaro
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, Department of Health, Animal Sciences and Food Safety, Università degli Studi di Milano, via G. Celoria 10, 20133, Milano, Italy
| | - Valentina Lodde
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, Department of Health, Animal Sciences and Food Safety, Università degli Studi di Milano, via G. Celoria 10, 20133, Milano, Italy
| | - Federica Franciosi
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, Department of Health, Animal Sciences and Food Safety, Università degli Studi di Milano, via G. Celoria 10, 20133, Milano, Italy
| | - Davide Corbani
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, Department of Health, Animal Sciences and Food Safety, Università degli Studi di Milano, via G. Celoria 10, 20133, Milano, Italy
| | - Alberto M Luciano
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, Department of Health, Animal Sciences and Food Safety, Università degli Studi di Milano, via G. Celoria 10, 20133, Milano, Italy
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Effect of the stage of estrous cycle on follicular population, oocyte yield and quality, and biochemical composition of serum and follicular fluid in Anatolian water buffalo. Anim Reprod Sci 2013; 137:8-14. [PMID: 23317849 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2012.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2012] [Revised: 12/10/2012] [Accepted: 12/12/2012] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
This study was designed to investigate the effects that the different stages of the estrous cycle had on the number of surface ovarian follicles and oocyte yield and quality of Anatolian water buffalo during peak breeding season. Assessments were made on the basis of ovarian morphology, serum and follicular fluid concentrations of variety of biochemical parameters. Following slaughter, blood samples were collected from each animal. The stage of estrous cycle was classified as either the luteal or follicular phase, and surface ovarian follicles were classified as small, medium, or large. The follicular fluid was aspirated, and oocytes were evaluated microscopically for classification into four categories. No statistical differences (p>0.05) were observed regarding the total number of follicles or quality of oocytes relative to the stage of the estrous cycle. Serum high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and progesterone (P4) concentrations were significantly higher in the luteal phase than in the follicular phase (P<0.05). Significant correlations were observed in the luteal phase between the total number of oocytes and cholesterol (Cho), HDL, sodium (Na), chloride (Cl); A-quality oocytes and Na, Cl, Mg; C-quality oocytes and Cho, HDL, and Mg in follicular fluid. These results offer new information concerning Anatolian water buffalo reproductive physiology, which may be useful for improving oocyte quality in buffalo. This is the first study to describe the number of ovarian follicles, oocyte yield and quality, and a variety of biochemical parameters in the serum and follicular fluid of Anatolian water buffalo during peak breeding season in Turkey.
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Dadashpour Davachi N, Kohram H, Zainoaldini S. Cumulus cell layers as a critical factor in meiotic competence and cumulus expansion of ovine oocytes. Small Rumin Res 2012. [DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2011.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
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12
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Tessaro I, Luciano AM, Franciosi F, Lodde V, Corbani D, Modina SC. The endothelial nitric oxide synthase/nitric oxide system is involved in the defective quality of bovine oocytes from low mid-antral follicle count ovaries. J Anim Sci 2011; 89:2389-96. [PMID: 21421835 DOI: 10.2527/jas.2010-3714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
In a previous survey concerning cows of reproductive age, we demonstrated that oocytes isolated from ovaries with <10 medium antral follicles of 2 to 6 mm in diameter (low ovaries; Lo) show less developmental competence than oocytes collected from ovaries with >10 medium antral follicles (high ovaries; Hi). The aim of the present study was to evaluate whether a defective endothelial nitric oxide synthase/nitric oxide (eNOS/NO) system and vasculature in healthy medium antral follicles is likely to reduce oocyte competence from Lo ovaries. Thus, experiments were conducted to 1) immunolocalize eNOS protein during folliculogenesis; 2) quantify eNOS protein/vasculature in the follicle wall; and 3) verify if NO donor, S-nitroso acetyl penicillamine (SNAP) administration during in vitro maturation affects developmental competence of oocytes isolated from Lo ovaries. Endothelial nitric oxide synthase protein was detected in granulosa and theca cells, as well as in blood vessels from primordial to antral follicles. Quantitative analysis indicated that in medium antral follicles from Lo ovaries, eNOS protein expression and vasculature were reduced (P < 0.05). The addition of SNAP improved blastocyst and hatching rates of oocytes from Lo ovaries, promoting a percentage similar to oocytes from Hi ovaries, and reduced the percentage of apoptotic nuclei in in vitro-produced blastocysts (P < 0.05). Results from our study suggest that in bovine ovaries with small mid antral follicle number, a defective eNOS/NO system is related to a reduced follicle vasculature and may affect oocyte quality, thus inducing a premature decline of fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Tessaro
- Dipartimento di Scienze Animali, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133 Milano, Italy
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13
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Noninvasive bovine oocyte quality assessment: possibilities of a single oocyte culture. Theriogenology 2010; 74:1509-20. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2010.06.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2010] [Revised: 06/21/2010] [Accepted: 06/22/2010] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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14
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A retrospective model of oocyte competence: global mRNA and housekeeping transcripts are not associated with in vitro developmental outcome. ZYGOTE 2009; 17:289-95. [DOI: 10.1017/s0967199409005395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
SummaryOocyte developmental competence depends on maternal stores that support development throughout a transcriptionally silent period during early embryogenesis. Previous attempts to investigate transcripts associated with oocyte competence have relied on prospective models, which are mostly based on morphological criteria. Using a retrospective model, we quantitatively compared mRNA among oocytes with different embryo development competence. A cytoplasm biopsy was removed from in vitro matured oocytes to perform comparative analysis of amounts of global polyadenylated (polyA) mRNA and housekeeping gene transcripts. After parthenogenetic activation of biopsied oocytes, presumptive zygotes were cultured individually in vitro and oocytes were classified according to embryo development: (i) blocked before the 8-cell stage; (ii) blocked between the 8-cell and morulae stages; or (iii) developed to the blastocyst stage. Sham-manipulated controls confirmed that biopsies did not alter development outcome. Total polyA mRNA amounts correlate with oocyte diameter but not with the ability to develop to the 8-cell and blastocyst stages. The last was also confirmed by relative quantification of GAPDH, H2A and Hprt1 transcripts. In conclusion, we describe a novel retrospective model to identify putative markers of development competence in single oocytes and demonstrate that global mRNA amounts at the metaphase II stage do not correlate with embryo development in vitro.
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Gupta MK, Uhm SJ, Lee HT. Sexual maturity and reproductive phase of oocyte donor influence the developmental ability and apoptosis of cloned and parthenogenetic porcine embryos. Anim Reprod Sci 2008; 108:107-21. [PMID: 17869033 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2007.07.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2006] [Revised: 07/20/2007] [Accepted: 07/23/2007] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
This study investigated the influence of the sexual maturity and reproductive phase of oocyte donor on the developmental ability and quality of porcine embryos produced by somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) or parthenogenesis (PA). Blastocyst quality was evaluated in terms of hatching ability, total nuclei number and types of apoptosis. Results revealed that maturation rate was not influenced by the reproductive status of the oocyte donor. However, when subjected to PA or SCNT, embryos derived from sexually mature sow oocytes developed to blastocysts at higher rates and had higher cell number than those derived from immature gilt oocytes (p<0.05). Significant effect of reproductive phase, luteal versus follicular, was also noted with luteal stage oocytes yielding higher (p<0.05) rate of blastocyst formation (PA: 54.3+/-1.3% versus 44.8+/-0.3%; SCNT: 29.4+/-0.2% versus 22.7+/-0.1%). Blastocysts derived from luteal phase oocytes also had higher (p<0.05) hatching ability (PA: 44.2+/-1.1%; SCNT: 39.6+/-4.7%) and cell number (PA: 77.4+/-4.9; SCNT: 54.9+/-2.4) than those derived from follicular phase oocytes (PA: 34.9+/-0.9%, 67.2+/-3.9; SCNT: 34.6+/-2.7%, 47.5+/-2.9). TUNEL assay and Hoechst 33342 staining revealed that percentage of blastocysts showing total apoptosis did not differ among the groups. However, luteal phase oocyte-derived blastocysts had the highest incidence of nuclear fragmentation. Among cloned blastocysts that showed the signs of apoptosis, the highest index of total apoptosis was observed in prepubertal oocyte-derived blastocysts (5.2+/-0.7). Blastocysts derived from luteal phase oocytes showed the lowest TUNEL index (2.0+/-0.5). The present study therefore, indicates that the sexual maturity and reproductive phase of cytoplast donor significantly influences the developmental ability, apoptosis and quality of blastocysts produced by SCNT or PA. Oocytes from sexually mature sows in luteal phase of their reproductive cycle may be better cytoplast recipients for SCNT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mukesh Kumar Gupta
- Department of Animal Biotechnology, Bio-Organ Research Center, Institute of Biomedical Science and Technology, Konkuk University, 1 Hwayang-dong, Gwangjin-Gu, Seoul 143 701, South Korea
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Rahman AMA, Abdullah R, Wan-Khadij W. Recovery and Grading of Goat Oocytes with Special Reference to Laparoscopic
Ovum Pick-up Technique: A Review. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2008. [DOI: 10.3923/biotech.2008.612.622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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17
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Thélie A, Papillier P, Pennetier S, Perreau C, Traverso JM, Uzbekova S, Mermillod P, Joly C, Humblot P, Dalbiès-Tran R. Differential regulation of abundance and deadenylation of maternal transcripts during bovine oocyte maturation in vitro and in vivo. BMC DEVELOPMENTAL BIOLOGY 2007; 7:125. [PMID: 17988387 PMCID: PMC2211488 DOI: 10.1186/1471-213x-7-125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2007] [Accepted: 11/07/2007] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Background In bovine maturing oocytes and cleavage stage embryos, gene expression is mostly controlled at the post-transcriptional level, through degradation and deadenylation/polyadenylation. We have investigated how post transcriptional control of maternal transcripts was affected during in vitro and in vivo maturation, as a model of differential developmental competence. Results Using real time PCR, we have analyzed variation of maternal transcripts, in terms of abundance and polyadenylation, during in vitro or in vivo oocyte maturation and in vitro embryo development. Four genes are characterized here for the first time in bovine: ring finger protein 18 (RNF18) and breast cancer anti-estrogen resistance 4 (BCAR4), whose oocyte preferential expression was not previously reported in any species, as well as Maternal embryonic leucine zipper kinase (MELK) and STELLA. We included three known oocyte marker genes (Maternal antigen that embryos require (MATER), Zygote arrest 1 (ZAR1), NACHT, leucine rich repeat and PYD containing 9 (NALP9)). In addition, we selected transcripts previously identified as differentially regulated during maturation, peroxiredoxin 1 and 2 (PRDX1, PRDX2), inhibitor of DNA binding 2 and 3 (ID2, ID3), cyclin B1 (CCNB1), cell division cycle 2 (CDC2), as well as Aurora A (AURKA). Most transcripts underwent a moderate degradation during maturation. But they displayed sharply contrasted deadenylation patterns that account for variations observed previously by DNA array and correlated with the presence of a putative cytoplasmic polyadenylation element in their 3' untranslated region. Similar variations in abundance and polyadenylation status were observed during in vitro maturation or in vivo maturation, except for PRDX1, that appears as a marker of in vivo maturation. Throughout in vitro development, oocyte restricted transcripts were progressively degraded until the morula stage, except for MELK ; and the corresponding genes remained silent after major embryonic genome activation. Conclusion Altogether, our data emphasize the extent of post-transcriptional regulation during oocyte maturation. They do not evidence a general alteration of this phenomenon after in vitro maturation as compared to in vivo maturation, but indicate that some individual messenger RNA can be affected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aurore Thélie
- INRA, UMR85 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, F-37380 Nouzilly, France.
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18
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Manjunatha BM, Gupta PSP, Ravindra JP, Devaraj M, Ramesh HS, Nandi S. In vitro developmental competence of buffalo oocytes collected at various stages of the estrous cycle. Theriogenology 2007; 68:882-8. [PMID: 17706758 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2007.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2007] [Accepted: 07/01/2007] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
The objective was to determine the in vitro developmental competence of buffalo oocytes collected from abattoir-derived ovaries at various stages of the estrous cycle and follicular status. In Experiment 1, ovaries (n=476 pairs) were collected and divided into the following five groups: (a) ovaries with a corpus hemorragicum and no dominant follicle (CH-NO-DF); (b) ovaries with a mature functional corpus luteum (CL) and a dominant follicle (CL-DF); (c) ovaries with a mature functional CL and no dominant follicle (CL-NO-DF); (d) ovaries with a regressing CL and a dominant follicle (RCL-DF); and (e) ovaries without any luteal structures and only small follicles (ANEST). In Experiment 2, 144 pairs of ovaries with a CL (or regressing CL) and a dominant follicle were collected and follicles were classified as dominant, largest subordinate, and subordinate. In both experiments, the dominant follicle was defined as any follicle >10mm in diameter that exceeded the diameter of all other (subordinate) follicles. Although oocytes were collected from each group of ovaries, only Grades A or B oocytes were used for in vitro embryo production. Cleavage rates were higher (P<0.05) from oocytes collected from ovaries in the CH-NO-DF (59.6%) and CL-NO-DF (59.2%) groups than those collected from CL-DF (52.2%) and ANEST (43.6%) groups. The yield of transferable embryos was higher (P<0.05) from oocytes collected from CH-NO-DF (27.4%) and CL-NO-DF (24.0%) ovaries than from CL-DF (16.2%), RCL-DF (15.4%), and lowest (P<0.05) from ANEST (8.8%). In Experiment 2, oocytes from the dominant follicle had a higher (P<0.05) cleavage rate (65.2 %) and transferable embryo yield (30.2%) than those collected from the largest subordinate and subordinate follicles. In conclusion, oocyte competence depended on the morphofunctional state of ovaries. Oocyte development was maximal in pairs of ovaries with a corpus hemorragicum or CL and no dominant follicle; in paired ovaries with a CL and a dominant follicle, development was maximal in oocytes derived from the dominant follicle.
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Affiliation(s)
- B M Manjunatha
- Veterinary College, Karnataka Veterinary, Animal and Fishery Sciences University, Bangalore 560024, India.
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19
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Hua S, Zhang Y, Li XC, Ma LB, Cao JW, Dai JP, Li R. Effects of Granulosa Cell Mitochondria Transfer on the Early Development of Bovine Embryos In Vitro. CLONING AND STEM CELLS 2007; 9:237-46. [PMID: 17579556 DOI: 10.1089/clo.2006.0020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to determine the effect of exogenous mitochondria obtained from granulosa cells on the development of bovine embryos in vitro. We classified cumulus oocyte complexes (COCs) as good (G)- and poor (P)-quality oocytes based on cytoplasmic appearance and cumulus characteristics, and assessed mtDNA copy numbers in the G and P oocytes with real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The mitochondria were isolated by fractionation and suspended in mitochondria injection buffer (MIB). Part one of the experiment consisted of the following treatments: (1) G-oocytes + sperm, (2) P-oocytes + mitochondria + MIB + sperm, (3) P-oocytes + MIB + sperm, and (4) P-oocytes + sperm. In part 2, oocytes were parthenogenetically activated. The treatments were: (1) G-oocytes, (2) P-oocytes + mitochondria + MIB, (3) P-oocytes + MIB, and (4) P-oocytes alone. The results indicated a significant difference in mtDNA copy number between G (361 113 +/- 147 114) and P (198 293 +/- 174 178) oocytes (p < 0.01). The rates of morula, blastocyst, and hatched blastocysts derived from P-oocytes + mitochondria were similar to those of G-oocytes, but significantly higher than P-oocytes without exogenous mitochondria in both the ICSI and parthenogenetic activation experiments. We found no difference in blastomere numbers between G-oocytes and P-oocytes + mitochondria in either experiment, but blastomere numbers in these two groups were significantly higher than in P-oocyte groups without exogenous mitochondria. These data suggest that mtDNA content is very important for early embryo development. Furthermore, the transfer of mitochondria from the same breed may improve embryo quality during preimplantation development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Song Hua
- Institute of Bio-Engineering, Northwest A & F University, Yangling, Shannxi, People's Republic of China
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20
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Abstract
Natural cycle and in-vitro maturation (IVM) of oocytes are becoming interesting alternatives to classical assisted reproduction technology approaches for patients, especially in those at high risk for ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome or with poor ovarian reserve. More than for their clinical and biological indications, natural cycle and IVM of oocytes can also be considered as good social and economic alternatives to the classical IVF treatment, based on their financial cost-effectiveness with exclusion of expensive medications. To be successful, IVM must entail both nuclear and cytoplasmic maturation, and its maturation and success rates are affected by the number of collected cumulus layers, the degree of atresia and the maturation rate between 24 and 48 h. Endogenous regulation of oocyte maturation is a complex sequence of events regulated by endocrine parameters, oocyte/follicular cross-talk, and intra-oocyte kinase/phosphatase interactions. This complex process requires a better definition of each contributing factor affecting oocyte development and the resulting embryo quality. The clinical aspects of IVM have been documented earlier; the present paper will mainly focus on the biological aspect of oocyte maturation in vitro and the quality of derived embryos.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Ali
- Centre de Fertilité et de Reproduction Fertilys, Laval, Québec, Canada
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21
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BOEDIONO ARIEF, YULNAWATI, SETIADI MOHAMADAGUS. Tingkat Pematangan Inti Oosit Domba dari Ovarium dengan Status Reproduksi dan Medium Maturasi yang Berbeda. HAYATI JOURNAL OF BIOSCIENCES 2006. [DOI: 10.1016/s1978-3019(16)30307-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
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22
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Modina S, Abbate F, Germanà GP, Lauria A, Luciano AM. Beta-catenin localization and timing of early development of bovine embryos obtained from oocytes matured in the presence of follicle stimulating hormone. Anim Reprod Sci 2006; 100:264-79. [PMID: 16956737 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2006.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2006] [Revised: 04/29/2006] [Accepted: 07/20/2006] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
In mammalian species, embryos which grow more rapidly are believed to be more competent and viable than they are slower developing counterparts. Although the most important decrease in development occurs between the zygote and blastocyst stages, there is a growing amount of evidence to suggest that maturation conditions and oocyte quality have a profound influence on the developmental potential of early mammalian embryos. Gene transcripts and polypeptides stored in the oocytes, such as junctional proteins, sustain the initial development of embryos. In the present study we demonstrated a relationship between the timing of the development of in vitro-produced bovine embryos and the distribution and localization of the junctional protein beta-catenin. We further demonstrated that the presence of FSH during IVM supports cleavage and the blastocyst rate, and also has a positive effect on the speed of development, since embryos obtained from oocytes matured with the gonadotropin and observed on days 4, 5 and 6 post-insemination (p.i.) grew faster than those matured in a medium supplemented with BSA. Moreover, the majority of embryos which developed past the 16-cell stage showed a proper distribution of beta-catenin just beneath the membrane surfaces of all blastomeres and an appropriate morphology, as confirmed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis. In conclusion, our data suggest that supplementing FSH during in vitro maturation aids the development of bovine embryos and promotes the correct expression of beta-catenin, increasing the likelihood that embryos will develop to the blastocyst stage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Modina
- Institute of Anatomy of Domestic Animals, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Milan, Via Celoria, 10, 20133 Milano, Italy.
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23
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Luciano AM, Lodde V, Beretta MS, Colleoni S, Lauria A, Modina S. Developmental capability of denuded bovine oocyte in a co-culture system with intact cumulus-oocyte complexes: role of cumulus cells, cyclic adenosine 3',5'-monophosphate, and glutathione. Mol Reprod Dev 2005; 71:389-97. [PMID: 15803456 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.20304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Cumulus oophorus cells have been implicated in the regulation of female gamete development, meiotic maturation, and oocyte-sperm interaction. Nevertheless, the specific role of cumulus cells (CCs) during the final stages of oocyte maturation and fertilization processes still remains unclear. Several studies have been conducted in order to clarify the role of follicular cells using culture systems where denuded oocytes (DOs) were co-cultured with isolated CCs, or in the presence of conditioned medium. However, those attempts were ineffective and the initial oocyte competence to become a blastocyst after fertilization was only partially restored. Aim of the present study was to analyze the effect of the interactions between somatic cells and the female gamete on denuded oocyte developmental capability using a system of culture where CCs were present as dispersed CCs or as intact cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) in co-culture with oocytes freed of CC investment immediately after isolation from the ovary. Moreover, we analyzed the specific role of cyclic adenosine 3'-5' monophosphate (cAMP) and glutathione (GSH) during FSH-stimulated maturation of denuded oocyte co-cultured with intact COCs. Our data confirm that denuded oocyte has a scarce developmental capability, and the presence of dispersed CCs during in vitro maturation (IVM) does not improve their developmental competence. On the contrary, the co-presence of intact COCs during denuded oocyte IVM partially restores their developmental capability. The absence of CCs investment causes a drop of cAMP content in DOs at the beginning of IVM and the addition of a cAMP analog in the culture medium does not restore the initial oocyte developmental competence. The relative GSH content of denuded oocyte matured in presence of intact COCs is consistent with the partial recovery of their developmental capability. However, the complete restoration of a full embryonic developmental potential is achieved only when DOs are co-cultured with intact COCs during both IVM and in vitro fertilization (IVF). Our results suggest that the direct interaction between oocyte and CCs is not essential during IVM and IVF of denuded oocyte. We hypothesize that putative diffusible factor(s), produced by CCs and/or by the crosstalk between oocyte and CCs in the intact complex, could play a key role in the acquisition of developmental competence of the denuded female gamete.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto M Luciano
- Institute of Anatomy of Domestic Animals, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Milan, Italy.
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24
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Lequarre AS, Vigneron C, Ribaucour F, Holm P, Donnay I, Dalbiès-Tran R, Callesen H, Mermillod P. Influence of antral follicle size on oocyte characteristics and embryo development in the bovine. Theriogenology 2005; 63:841-59. [PMID: 15629802 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2004.05.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2004] [Revised: 05/07/2004] [Accepted: 05/12/2004] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
The developmental competence of bovine oocytes isolated from antral follicles of different sizes was assessed in three European laboratories (Belgium, UCL; Denmark, DIAS; France, INRA). Using the same protocol for in vitro production of embryos, the oocytes isolated from follicles with a diameter > or = 6 mm always gave a higher blastocyst rate than oocytes from follicles < 4 mm (UCL: 42% versus 14%, DIAS: 50% versus 35%, INRA: 39% versus 22%; P < 0.05). Blastocyst cell number was not affected by follicle size. Several parameters were investigated for these oocytes. The energy metabolism of cumulus-oocyte-complexes and of denuded oocytes was assessed by the oxygen and pyruvate uptake and by lactate release both at the beginning and the end of the maturation. No effect of follicle size could be detected but lactate release increased after maturation. The global profile of transcripts, the pattern of protein neosynthesis and the kinetics of meiosis resumption were not affected by follicle size. The developmental kinetics of derived embryos was also analysed. Whatever the follicle size, viable embryos had a shorter first and third embryonic cell cycle. Among the viable embryos, the size of the follicle interfered with the fourth cell cycle duration. A higher percentage of blastocysts issued from large follicle presented a short fourth cell cycle (9h) (35% versus 6%; P < 0.05). Beside, blastocysts derived from small follicles had a delayed cavitation and expansion. Thereby, a higher developmental competence for oocytes from follicle > or = 6 mm versus < 4 mm was demonstrated in three laboratories although no differences could be displayed directly at the oocyte level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne-Sophie Lequarre
- Institut des Sciences de la Vie, Unité des Sciences Vétérinaires, Université Catholique de Louvain (UCL), Place Croix du Sud 5 Bte 10, B-1348 Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium.
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25
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Tamassia M, Nuttinck F, May-Panloup P, Reynier P, Heyman Y, Charpigny G, Stojkovic M, Hiendleder S, Renard JP, Chastant-Maillard S. In vitro embryo production efficiency in cattle and its association with oocyte adenosine triphosphate content, quantity of mitochondrial DNA, and mitochondrial DNA haplogroup. Biol Reprod 2004; 71:697-704. [PMID: 15084486 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.103.026104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Mitochondria have a broad range of functions that affect reproduction, and structural as well as quantitative variation in mtDNA has been associated with gamete quality and reproductive success. To investigate the mitochondria effect on in vitro embryo production, we collected oocytes by ultrasound-guided follicular aspiration from donor cows known to differ in the developmental capacity, measured by the blastocyst formation rate, of their oocytes. To evaluate the potential effects of mtDNA and mitochondrial function on oocyte quality, the donor cows' mtDNA control region was sequenced and, after pairwise comparisons of polymorphisms, animals were grouped into two major haplogroups. The number of mtDNA molecules per oocyte was quantified by real-time PCR, and the adenosine triphosphate (ATP) content was measured in each oocyte to identify variations between haplogroups. Overall, ATP stocks in oocytes of the two haplogroups differed significantly (P < 0.05; means +/- SEM) both at the germinal vesicle and metaphase II stages (2.8 +/- 0.06 pmol vs. 2.6 +/- 0.07 pmol and 2.9 +/- 0.1 pmol vs. 2.3 +/- 0.06 pmol, respectively). The proportion of development to blastocyst was significantly different between haplogroups (22.3 +/- 2.1 % vs. 36.7 +/- 2.9 %). The number of mtDNA molecules per oocyte was highly variable (377 327 +/- 14 104, ranging from 2.0 x 10(3) to 1.2 x 10(6)) but not significantly different between the two haplogroups; significant differences were observed between animals without any apparent relationship to blastocyst production. These data suggest that mitochondria and mtDNA haplogroup affect the developmental capacity of bovine oocytes in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Tamassia
- Ecole Vétérinaire d'Alfort, Biologie de la Reproduction, UMR 1198 INRA/ENVA, 94704 Maisons-Alfort, France.
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26
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Machatkova M, Krausova K, Jokesova E, Tomanek M. Developmental competence of bovine oocytes: effects of follicle size and the phase of follicular wave on in vitro embryo production. Theriogenology 2004; 61:329-35. [PMID: 14662132 DOI: 10.1016/s0093-691x(03)00216-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Developmental competence of bovine oocytes collected from follicles of different size categories (in either the growth or the dominant phase of the first follicular wave) was studied, with the aim of improving in vitro embryo production. Estrus and ovulation of 39 cyclic Holstein dairy cows were synchronized by two prostaglandin F2alpha treatments at 11-day intervals and one hCG treatment on the day of onset of estrus (Day 0). Cows with follicles in either the growth (Day 3, n=25) or the dominant phase (Day 7, n=14) were slaughtered, and follicles >5 mm were counted. Three oocyte populations were recovered separately from large (11-15 mm), medium (6-10 mm) and small (2-5 mm) follicles in both follicular phases. All collected cumulus-oocyte complexes (COC), except for markedly atretic oocytes without cumulus cells, were used in experiments. Oocytes were matured, fertilized and cultured by standard methods. There were no significant differences between the growth and the dominant phases for mean numbers of large follicles, usable oocytes and embryos per donor. Generally, those numbers were low, but the development rates of oocytes into blastocysts were high, particularly in the growth phase (60.0%). Mean (+/- S.E.M.) numbers of medium follicles, oocytes and embryos per donor were higher in the growth as compared with the dominant phase; in the usable oocytes and embryos, this difference was significant (9.6 +/- 1.4 and 3.5 +/- 0.6 versus 3.9 +/- 0.6 and 1.1 +/- 0.3; P<0.01). The development rates of oocytes into blastocysts, however, did not differ significantly between the growth and the dominant phases (36.7% versus 27.8%). Mean numbers of usable oocytes and embryos per donor recovered from small follicles in both follicular wave phases were similar. The development rate of oocytes into blastocysts was generally low, but higher (P<0.01) in the growth than in the dominant phase (24.5% versus 11.7%). Comparison between the two phases showed that mean number of all counted follicles and all usable oocytes collected per donor were similar, but the mean number of embryos per donor and the development rate of oocytes into blastocysts were higher in the growth phase than in the dominant phase (8.0 +/- 1.2 versus 3.8 +/- 2.4; P=0.012 and 30.3% versus 14.9%; P<0.01). The interaction between follicle size and the phase of follicular wave affected the efficiency of embryo production. The yield of embryos was primarily influenced by the number of oocytes collected from medium follicles and the developmental competence of oocytes from small follicles. The growth phase was more effective for oocyte collection; the number of oocytes from medium follicles and the developmental competence of oocytes from small follicles decreased in the dominant phase.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Machatkova
- Veterinary Research Institute, Hudcova 70, 621 32 Brno, Czech Republic.
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27
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Luciano AM, Modina S, Vassena R, Milanesi E, Lauria A, Gandolfi F. Role of intracellular cyclic adenosine 3',5'-monophosphate concentration and oocyte-cumulus cells communications on the acquisition of the developmental competence during in vitro maturation of bovine oocyte. Biol Reprod 2003; 70:465-72. [PMID: 14568913 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.103.020644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study was designed to address the physiological role played by cAMP on gap junction (GJ) mediated communications between oocyte and cumulus cells during in vitro maturation. Cyclic AMP was stimulated by different collection and maturation media known to induce different rates of nuclear maturation and developmental competence as well as different levels of cumulus expansion. Cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) were matured for 0, 3, 7, 12, 18, and 24 h in the absence of stimulation or in the presence of serum and gonadotropins (fetal bovine serum+human menopausal gonadotropins [FCS+hMG]) or 0.01 microg/ml of invasive adenylate cyclase (iAC). For each time point, intracellular cAMP concentration ([cAMP]i) was determined either in the whole COC or oocyte after cumulus cell removal. GJ functional status was analyzed by microinjection of Lucifer yellow fluorescent dye in cumulus-enclosed oocytes and by immunohistochemical localization of connexin 43 (Cx43). In the absence of stimulation, [cAMP]i in COC and oocyte was lower than in other groups, and communications declined after 3 h of culture. In the FCS+hMG group, [cAMP]i increased significantly in COC, with a peak between 3 and 7 h that was temporally correlated with the beginning of the cumulus expansion process, which occurred only in this group and with the termination of the communications. COC matured in the presence of iAC showed a moderate increase of [cAMP]i during all of the maturation times as well as a prolongation of oocyte-cumulus cell communications. The immunohistochemical localization of Cx43 confirmed the delay in connexons protein turnover in iAC-treated COCs. Our results show that cumulus expansion and oocyte developmental competence are induced by different levels of cAMP and that its intracellular concentration may affect cell coupling between oocyte and cumulus cells. We hypothesize that the higher developmental competence of COCs matured in the presence of iAC could be achieved through a moderate increase of intracellular cAMP, which in turn determines a prolongation of communications between the two cell types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto M Luciano
- Institute of Anatomy of Domestic Animals, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Milan, Milan, 20133, Italy.
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Sirisathien S, Brackett BG. Influence of postmortem delay in aspiration of oocytes on production of bovine blastocysts in vitro. Vet Rec 2003; 153:334-5. [PMID: 14516119 DOI: 10.1136/vr.153.11.334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- S Sirisathien
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602-7389, USA
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29
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Pocar P, Augustin R, Gandolfi F, Fischer B. Toxic effects of in vitro exposure to p-tert-octylphenol on bovine oocyte maturation and developmental competence. Biol Reprod 2003; 69:462-8. [PMID: 12700204 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.102.010355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Alkylphenolic compounds are a widespread family of xenoestrogens. High concentrations of these substances are present in sewage sludge that is spread on arable land and pasture as fertilizer. Because of their known endocrine system-disrupting activity, alkylphenols represent a potential risk for the reproductive health of farm animals. In this study, the impact of p-tert-octylphenol (OP) on the developmental competence of bovine oocytes was evaluated. Endocrine activity of OP was investigated for its effect on estrogen receptors alpha and beta (ERalpha and ERbeta) and progesterone receptor (PR) mRNA levels. Cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) were exposed during in vitro maturation to serial concentrations of OP (1-0.0001 microg/ml) and were compared with vehicle-treated controls and a group of COCs treated with 17 beta-estradiol (E2). A dose-related decrease in the percentage of oocytes that completed maturation after 24 h and in oocyte fertilization competence was observed at doses of OP as low as 0.01 microg/ml. Groups treated with > or =0.001 microg/ml OP showed impaired embryo development. No adverse effects of E2 were observed. In the E2-treated COCs, ERalpha mRNA was decreased but PR mRNA was upregulated compared with controls. Treatment with 0.001 and 0.0001 microg/ml OP induced a decrease in ERalpha mRNA, but ERbeta and PR mRNA were not affected. Treatment with 0.01 microg/ml OP did not produce changes in the expression of any of the mRNAs studied. OP impairs meiotic progression and developmental competence of bovine oocytes without demonstrating clear estrogen-mimic activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Pocar
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Martin Luther University Halle/Wittenberg, D-06097 Halle (Saale), Germany.
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Vassena R, Adams GP, Mapletoft RJ, Pierson RA, Singh J. Ultrasound image characteristics of ovarian follicles in relation to oocyte competence and follicular status in cattle. Anim Reprod Sci 2003; 76:25-41. [PMID: 12559718 DOI: 10.1016/s0378-4320(02)00234-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Assessment of the quality of the female gamete has become paramount for in vitro procedures. There is a need to identify reliable indicators of oocyte competence and develop a simple, non-invasive method to assess competence. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationships among ultrasonographic attributes of a follicle, its stage of development and the competence of the oocyte that it contains. We tested the hypotheses that follicular echotexture characteristics are related to: (1) the phase of development of the follicle, (2) the presence of the corpus luteum (CL) and/or the dominant follicle in the ovary, and (3) developmental competence of cumulus oocyte complexes (COC) from the same ovary. Crossbred beef cows (n=143), age 4-14 years, were given a luteolytic dose of dinoprost to cause ovulation. Ultrasound-guided ablation of all follicles > or = 4mm was done 8 days later to induce new follicular wave emergence during a luteal phase. Ultrasonographic images of dominant follicles and the three largest subordinate follicles (n=402 follicles; 84 cows) were acquired on Days 2, 3, 5 or 7 of the follicular wave (Day 0: wave emergence), i.e. growing, early-static, late static, and regressing phases of subordinate follicle development, respectively. From a subset of these animals (n=33), ovaries were collected within 30 min of slaughter and COC from subordinate follicles > or = 3mm underwent in vitro maturation, fertilization and culture to the blastocyst stage.Image analysis revealed differences in echotexture between dominant and subordinate follicles among Days 2-7 of the follicular wave. Images of dominant and subordinate follicles at Day 7 of the wave displayed consistently lower grey-scale values (P<0.05) in the peripheral antrum, follicular wall and perifollicular stroma than all other days. Follicle images displayed a consistent pattern of variation in echotexture among follicular phases. Data did not support the hypothesis of a local effect of the CL or dominant follicle on follicular echotexture. Echotexture values of the perifollicular stroma were lower in ovaries that did not produce embryos compared to ovaries that produced embryos. Our results showed that the changes in follicular image attributes are consistent with changes in follicular status. The sensitivity of the technique is not yet sufficient for use in a diagnostic setting, but results provide rationale for further development of image analysis as a tool for evaluating oocyte competence in situ.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Vassena
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, 52 Campus Drive, Saskatoon, Sask., Canada S7N 5B4
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Brevini TAL, Lonergan P, Cillo F, Francisci C, Favetta LA, Fair T, Gandolfi F. Evolution of mRNA polyadenylation between oocyte maturation and first embryonic cleavage in cattle and its relation with developmental competence. Mol Reprod Dev 2002; 63:510-7. [PMID: 12412054 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.10191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
In this study we analyzed the pattern of polyadenylation changes that takes place between the resumption of meiosis and the first cleavage of bovine oocytes. Moreover, we investigated whether the delayed occurrence of the first cleavage division, which characterizes embryos of low developmental competence, is accompanied by an altered polyadenylation pattern of individual transcripts. We determined the polyadenylation status of a group of genes that characterize physiological processes, involved in early differentiation (Oct-4), compaction, and cavitation (beta-actin, plakophilin, connexin-32, connexin-43), energy metabolism (glucose transporter type 1, pyruvate dehydrogenase phosphatase), RNA processing (RNA poly(A) polymerase), and stress (heat shock protein 70). RNA was isolated from pools of 20 oocytes or embryos at the germinal vesicle (GV) stage, at the end of in vitro maturation, at the end of in vitro fertilization, and at the time of the first cleavage. Cleavage was assessed 27, 30, 36, 42 hr post insemination (hpi), and at the latter time the remaining uncleaved oocytes were retained as a group. Between oocyte isolation and first cleavage at 27 hpi (best quality embryos), the poly(A) tail of individual transcripts followed four patterns: no changes (beta-actin, PDP); gradual reduction (Cx-43, Oct-4, Plako); gradual elongation (Cx-32, TPA); reduction followed by elongation (PAP, HSP-70, Glut-1). If the interval between insemination and first cleavage was longer than 27 hpi (progressively lower quality embryos) further changes of polyadenylation were observed, which differed for each gene considered. These data indicated that specific changes in polyadenylation contribute to the modulation of gene expression in bovine embryos at this stage of development. Defective developmental competence is accompanied by abnormal polyadenylation levels of specific maternal mRNAs with synchrony between polyadenylation and cleavage emerging as an apparently important factor.
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Affiliation(s)
- T A L Brevini
- Department of Anatomy of Domestic Animals, University of Milan, via Celoria, 10-20133 Milano, Italy.
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Boni R, Cuomo A, Tosti E. Developmental potential in bovine oocytes is related to cumulus-oocyte complex grade, calcium current activity, and calcium stores. Biol Reprod 2002; 66:836-42. [PMID: 11870093 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod66.3.836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
A morphological classification of the immature cumulus-oocyte complex (COC), which grossly resembled the atresia grade of its follicle source, was used in bovine oocytes to determine 1) the developmental potential by either in vitro fertilization or parthenogenetic activation, 2) the calcium current activity by whole-cell voltage clamp technique, and 3) the intracytoplasmic calcium stores by microfluorimetric evaluation. The COC classification took into account some cumulus and ooplasm features, designated as follows: A) presence of a clear and compact cumulus and translucent ooplasm, B) dark and compact cumulus and dark ooplasm, and C) dark and expanded cumulus and dark ooplasm. We found no difference between in vitro fertilization and parthenogenetically activated oocytes in terms of cleavage rate and blastocyst production. Both protocols indicated a significant variability between the three compared COC categories. The B-COCs showed the highest embryo production efficiency as well as the greatest Ca(2+) current activity, whereas A-COCs showed an opposite pattern. The C-COCs, mostly attributed to atretic and heavily atretic follicles, showed morphological characteristics between those of A- and B-COCs. Stores of Ca(2+) were significantly greater in A-COCs than in B- and C-COCs in the case of immature oocytes, and greater in B-COCs than in C-and A-COCs in the case of in vitro-matured oocytes. These results demonstrate that in the bovine 1) the considered morphological criteria for oocyte classification are related to developmental competence, 2) plasma membrane Ca(2+) current in the immature oocyte is related to developmental potential, and 3) calcium stores are related to morphological quality in immature oocytes and to developmental competence in mature oocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raffaele Boni
- Department of Animal Science, University of Basilicata, 85100 Potenza, Italy.
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Pocar P, Brevini TA, Perazzoli F, Cillo F, Modina S, Gandolfi F. Cellular and molecular mechanisms mediating the effects of polychlorinated biphenyls on oocyte developmental competence in cattle. Mol Reprod Dev 2001; 60:535-41. [PMID: 11746964 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.1118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) can interfere with normal reproductive functions acting as endocrine disruptors. Aroclor-1254 (A-1254), is a pool of more than 60 congeners used for in vitro studies because its composition is representative of PCBs environmental pollution. We previously demonstrated that the exposure of bovine oocytes to A-1254 during in vitro maturation (IVM) was detrimental not only to the maturation process but also induced a significant increase of polyspermy and a reduction of developmental competence. Therefore, we investigated whether A-1254 acts on two processes that occur during IVM and may be related with its negative effects: maternal mRNA polyadenylation and cortical granules (CGs) migration and exocytosis. Bovine cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) were exposed to 0.1 microg/ml of A-1254 during IVM, a level of exposure known to affect oocyte maturation, fertilization, and developmental competence. Oocyte exposure to A-1254 altered the poly(A) tail length of 5 out of 10 genes examined. PCBs effect on mRNA polyadenylation was different depending on the gene considered and resulted either in a shorter or in a longer poly(A) tail. At the end of maturation, Aroclor treated oocytes presented clustered CG in a significantly higher percentage than the control group. In addition, CG exocytosis after 8 hr of fertilization occurred at significantly lower extent in zygotes derived from the exposed group compared to control. Our results indicated that the lower developmental competence of oocytes exposed to PCBs during IVM can be related to the interaction of these contaminants with mechanisms regulating maternal mRNA storage in the ooplasm and normal CGs function.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Pocar
- Department of Anatomy of Domestic Animals, Via Trentacoste, University of Milan, 2-20134 Milan, Italy
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Abdoon AS. Factors affecting follicular population, oocyte yield and quality in camels (Camelus dromedarius) ovary with special reference to maturation time in vitro. Anim Reprod Sci 2001; 66:71-9. [PMID: 11343843 DOI: 10.1016/s0378-4320(01)00078-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Three experiments were conducted to study a series of factors affecting in vitro reproductive parameters in camels. In Experiment 1, the effect of season and presence of a corpus luteum (CL) on ovarian follicular populations, oocyte yield and quality was studied using a total of 252 and 208 ovaries collected during the breeding and non-breeding season, respectively. Small, medium, large and the total number of ovarian follicles, oocyte yield and quality were measured. In Experiment 2, the effect of methods of oocyte retrieval and needle gauge on oocyte yield and quality was evaluated with oocytes recovered using slicing and aspiration with 18-, 19- or 20-gauge needle. Oocytes were evaluated microscopically and classified into three categories. The objective of Experiment 3 was to identify the optimum time for oocyte maturation in the dromedary camel. Oocytes were cultured in CR1aa medium at 38.5 degrees C under 5% CO(2) for 24, 32, 36, 48 and 72h. Maturation was calculated as the percentage of cumulus expansion and oocytes reaching metaphase II (MII). The number of small, medium, large and the total number of ovarian follicles were higher (P<0.01) during the breeding than non-breeding season. The recovery of total number of oocytes and Category I oocytes were also greater (P<0.01) during the breeding season. Ovaries without a CL possessed significantly (P<0.01) more ovarian follicles and more (P<0.05) small and large follicles. The total number of oocytes and Category I oocytes were also greater (P<0.01) in ovaries without CL. Slicing of camel ovaries increased (P<0.01) the yield of oocytes as compared to aspiration. The aspiration of follicles using a 20-gauge needle had greater yields of the total number of oocytes and Category I oocytes than when using 19- (P<0.05) and 18-gauge needle (P<0.01). The culture of camel oocytes for 36h produced higher (P<0.01) percentages of cumulus expansion and oocytes at MII. Increasing culture times up to 48 or 72h increased (P<0.01) the percentage of degenerated oocytes. In conclusion, the growth and development of ovarian follicles in the camel as well as yields of Category I oocyte were greater during the breeding season. Slicing or aspirations using a 20-gauge needle yielded greater numbers of total and Category I oocytes. Finally, maturation of oocytes in CR1aa medium for 36h produced higher percentages of cumulus expansion and oocytes at MII stage.
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Affiliation(s)
- A S Abdoon
- Department of Animal Reproduction and Artificial Insemination, National Research Centre, Dokki, Tahrir Street, 12622, Giza, Egypt.
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Pocar P, Perazzoli F, Luciano AM, Gandolfi F. In vitro reproductive toxicity of polychlorinated biphenyls: effects on oocyte maturation and developmental competence in cattle. Mol Reprod Dev 2001; 58:411-6. [PMID: 11241777 DOI: 10.1002/1098-2795(20010401)58:4<411::aid-mrd8>3.0.co;2-r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are one of the most persistent and widespread group of endocrine disrupting compounds in the ecosystem. High concentrations of these substances are known to be present in sewage sludge from industrial, agricultural, and domestic origin that is spread in increasing amounts on arable land and pasture as fertilizer and is found in water, representing an increasing risk for the reproductive health of farm animals. Objective of this study was to determine the impact of PCBs on maturation and developmental competence of cattle oocytes. Since PCBs are a family of 209 molecules present in the environment as a mixture, Aroclor-1254, a pool of more than 60 congeners, was used in these experiments as its composition is considered to be environmentally relevant. Cumulus-oocytes complexes were exposed during IVM to serial concentrations of Aroclor-1254 (between 1 microg/ml and 0.0001 microg/ml) and compared with control groups. Aroclor decreased the percentage of oocytes that reached metaphase II stage after 24 hr, at doses as low as 0.01 microg/ml. Groups treated with 0.001 microg/ml or above, showed an impaired fertilization rate and a dramatic increase of polyspermy. Moreover, exposure during maturation resulted in a reduced proportion of oocytes that cleaved and developed until blastocyst stage although no differences in embryo cell numbers were observed. The present study indicates that very low PCBs concentrations are sufficient to disrupt bovine oocyte maturation, its fertilization, and developmental competence. These results also provide a set of reference data for the assessment of the risk posed by these substances to animal reproductive health, though further work will be necessary to equate in vitro doses to in vivo exposures.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Pocar
- Department of Anatomy of Domestic Animals, University of Milan, Italy
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Gandolfi TA, Gandolfi F. The maternal legacy to the embryo: cytoplasmic components and their effects on early development. Theriogenology 2001; 55:1255-76. [PMID: 11327683 DOI: 10.1016/s0093-691x(01)00481-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 135] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
RNA molecules and proteins are accumulated in the oocyte cytoplasm during its growth phase and are used to sustain the early phases of embryonic development before embryo DNA transcription begins. This makes the oocyte a very special cell, quite different from somatic cells where RNA and proteins usually undergo a rapid turnover. To enable the storage and timely use of such stored molecules, various mechanisms are effective in the oocyte and are gradually being elucidated. Our understanding of such mechanisms is important for constantly improving therapy for human and animal reproductive disorders as well as for understanding the process of nuclear reprogramming during cloning procedure or stem cell generation. This review focuses on the various aspects of these regulatory processes in an attempt to give an overview of the present knowledge on post-transcriptional and post-translational mechanisms taking place during oocyte maturation and early development. Mechanisms such as cytoplasmic regulation of the poly(A) tail, RNA localization and protein phosphorylation are described in some detail. Because most data are available from lower species these are presented together with appropriate reference to the mammalian oocyte when data are known, or when important differences have been described.
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Affiliation(s)
- T A Gandolfi
- Department of Endocrinology, University of Milan, Italy.
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Luciano AM, Pocar P, Milanesi E, Modina S, Rieger D, Lauria A, Gandolfi F. Effect of different levels of intracellular cAMP on the in vitro maturation of cattle oocytes and their subsequent development following in vitro fertilization. Mol Reprod Dev 1999; 54:86-91. [PMID: 10423303 DOI: 10.1002/(sici)1098-2795(199909)54:1<86::aid-mrd13>3.0.co;2-c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Serum, gonadotrophins, growth factors, and steroid hormones stimulate the in vitro maturation (IVM) of competent oocytes, acting, directly or indirectly, upon the adenylate cyclase pathway to produce the intracellular messenger, cAMP. The intracellular levels of cAMP in cattle cumulus-oocyte complexes (COC) were manipulated by adding to the collection and maturation media invasive adenylate cyclase (iAC), a toxin produced by the bacterium, Bordetella pertussis. High concentrations of iAC (1 or 5 microgram/ml) in the maturation medium inhibited the resumption of meiosis, while low concentrations (0.1 or 0.01 microgram/ml) resulted in high rates of maturation to the MII stage (92.6 +/- 2.5 and 98.5 +/- 1.4% respectively). The same low concentrations of iAC in the maturation medium resulted in rates of development to the blastocyst stage 8 days post insemination (30.1 +/- 4.2 and 45.1 +/- 3.9%, respectively), which were either not different, or significantly better, than those obtained after IVM in medium supplemented only with serum and gonadotrophins (36.1 +/- 2.9%). Finally, the addition of 0.1 microgram/ml iAC and 0.5 mM 3-isobutyl 1-methylxanthine (IBMX) in the collection medium significantly improved the blastocyst rate when IVM was performed in control medium or medium supplemented with 0.01 microgram/ml iAC (31.9 +/- 5.5 vs. 12.1 +/- 1.6 and 45.5 +/- 2.9 vs. 19.1 +/- 2.3% respectively). It is concluded that the maintenance of an optimal intracellular concentration of cAMP before and during IVM ensures a high developmental competence of bovine oocytes matured in medium without serum and hormones. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 54:86-91,1999.
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Affiliation(s)
- A M Luciano
- Department of Anatomy of Domestic Animals, University of Milan, Milano, Italy
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Brevini-Gandolfi TA, Favetta LA, Mauri L, Luciano AM, Cillo F, Gandolfi F. Changes in poly(A) tail length of maternal transcripts during in vitro maturation of bovine oocytes and their relation with developmental competence. Mol Reprod Dev 1999; 52:427-33. [PMID: 10092123 DOI: 10.1002/(sici)1098-2795(199904)52:4<427::aid-mrd12>3.0.co;2-g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Molecules of mRNA are stored in the oocyte cytoplasm in order to be used during the initial phases of embryonic development. The storage takes place during oocyte growth and the extent of poly(A) tail at the 3' end of the transcripts has emerged as an important regulatory element for determining their stability. The objective of the present study was to analyse changes in polyadenylation levels of mRNA transcripts, stored in bovine oocytes, during in vitro maturation and their possible relation with developmental competence. Oocyte developmental competence was predicted on the basis of the morphological appearance of their originating ovary as previously established (Gandolfi et al. 1997a. Theriogenology 48:1153-1160) and were divided into groups H (high competence) and L (low competence). The length of the poly(A) tail of the following genes, beta-actin (beta-Act), connexin 43, glucose transporter type 1, heat shock protein 70, oct-4, plakophilin, pyruvate dehydrogenase phosphatase (PDP), and RNA poly(A) polymerase, was determined at the germinal vesicle (GV) and metaphase II (MII) stage. The results indicated that the poly(A) tail of all genes except for beta-Act and PDP, is shorter after in vitro maturation (IVM) in both groups. Moreover, group L oocytes showed a shorter poly(A) tail than group H oocytes in all genes except for beta-Act and PDP, both at GV and MII stage. We conclude that most of the examined transcripts follow the default deadenylation pattern described during oocyte maturation in other species and that a shorter poly(A) tail is correlated with low developmental competence.
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Abstract
Concerns have developed in regard to problems associated with pregnancies and calves produced after use of cattle blastocysts made in the laboratory for embryo transfer. For both empirical studies and commercial purposes, there is a need for assurance that the product of these biotechnologies results in a normally functioning entity of its kind. Ability to use more genetic material from a donor female and in producing blastocysts needs to be improved to increase the efficiency of utilizing in vitro biotechnologies in animal production agriculture and for biomedical purposes. The role of gametes used as raw materials for laboratory production cattle embryos and adequacy of culture systems in supporting development of embryos are discussed in relation to competency of embryos produced in vitro.
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