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Talibova G, Bilmez Y, Tire B, Ozturk S. The DNA double-strand break repair proteins γH2AX, RAD51, BRCA1, RPA70, KU80, and XRCC4 exhibit follicle-specific expression differences in the postnatal mouse ovaries from early to older ages. J Assist Reprod Genet 2024; 41:2419-2439. [PMID: 39023827 PMCID: PMC11405603 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-024-03189-4] [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: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Ovarian aging is closely related to a decrease in follicular reserve and oocyte quality. The precise molecular mechanisms underlying these reductions have yet to be fully elucidated. Herein, we examine spatiotemporal distribution of key proteins responsible for DNA double-strand break (DSB) repair in ovaries from early to older ages. Functional studies have shown that the γH2AX, RAD51, BRCA1, and RPA70 proteins play indispensable roles in HR-based repair pathway, while the KU80 and XRCC4 proteins are essential for successfully operating cNHEJ pathway. METHODS Female Balb/C mice were divided into five groups as follows: Prepuberty (3 weeks old; n = 6), puberty (7 weeks old; n = 7), postpuberty (18 weeks old; n = 7), early aged (52 weeks old; n = 7), and late aged (60 weeks old; n = 7). The expression of DSB repair proteins, cellular senescence (β-GAL) and apoptosis (cCASP3) markers was evaluated in the ovaries using immunohistochemistry. RESULT β-GAL and cCASP3 levels progressively increased from prepuberty to aged groups (P < 0.05). Notably, γH2AX levels varied in preantral and antral follicles among the groups (P < 0.05). In aged groups, RAD51, BRCA1, KU80, and XRCC4 levels increased (P < 0.05), while RPA70 levels decreased (P < 0.05) compared to the other groups. CONCLUSIONS The observed alterations were primarily attributed to altered expression in oocytes and granulosa cells of the follicles and other ovarian cells. As a result, the findings indicate that these DSB repair proteins may play a role in the repair processes and even other related cellular events in ovarian cells from early to older ages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gunel Talibova
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Akdeniz University School of Medicine, Campus, 07070, Antalya, Turkey
| | - Yesim Bilmez
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Akdeniz University School of Medicine, Campus, 07070, Antalya, Turkey
| | - Betul Tire
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Akdeniz University School of Medicine, Campus, 07070, Antalya, Turkey
| | - Saffet Ozturk
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Akdeniz University School of Medicine, Campus, 07070, Antalya, Turkey.
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Geng J, Lv J, Zhang S, Ma Y, Sun Y, Du H. Kidney-tonifying formula facilitates the development and maturation of mouse preantral follicle in vitro. Am J Transl Res 2024; 16:3413-3426. [PMID: 39114693 PMCID: PMC11301477 DOI: 10.62347/qxtj9043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 07/17/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Kidney-tonifying formulas are frequently used in clinical practices to enhance follicular development and maturation. This research explored the impacts of the Bushen Tiaojing formula (BSTJF) on the development of mouse preantral follicles in vitro and its relationship with granulosa cells and gonadotropins. METHODS Preantral follicles were extracted from mice and cultured with or without serum from rats that were previously treated with or without BSTJF. During cultivation, the follicles were monitored for morphological changes and developmental maturation. Exhausted medium was collected every other day for the measurement of progesterone and estradiol (E2) levels by ELISA. Granulosa cells in in-vitro medium were collected on days 8, 10, and 12 and analyzed for determining the expressions of apoptosis-associated genes (Bax, Bcl-2, and Caspase-3). Propagation and apoptosis rates of collected granulosa cells were measured by CCK-8 assay and flow cytometry. RESULTS Compared with control follicles, follicles cultured with serum from BSTJF-treated rats had a higher survival rate, larger follicle diameter, higher Bcl-2 expression, and lower Bax and Caspase-3 expressions (all P ≤ 0.05). In addition, their granulosa cells presented substantially elevated proliferation (P ≤ 0.05) and a lower rate of apoptosis (P ≤ 0.05) compared with granulosa cells from control follicles. The level of E2 in the culture media of all groups increased slowly in the first 6 days. Subsequently, after formation of the antrum, the levels of E2 and progesterone were enhanced in the medium of follicles cultured with serum from BSTJF-treated rats compared with those in the media of control follicles (all P ≤ 0.05). CONCLUSION Serum from BSTJF-treated rats facilitated the in vitro development and maturation of mouse follicles by increasing the expression of anti-apoptotic gene Bcl-2, reducing the expressions of pro-apoptotic genes Bax and Caspase-3 as well as the apoptosis of granulosa cells, promoting the proliferation of granulosa cells and increasing the secretion of E2 and progesterone in the cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingran Geng
- College of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Hebei University of Chinese MedicineShijiazhuang, Hebei, China
- Hebei Maternity HospitalShijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Jinmeng Lv
- College of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Hebei University of Chinese MedicineShijiazhuang, Hebei, China
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Integrated Traditional and Western Medicine in Osteoarthrosis Research (Preparing), Hebei Province Cangzhou Hospital of Integrated Traditional and Western MedicineCangzhou, Hebei, China
| | - Shuancheng Zhang
- College of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Hebei University of Chinese MedicineShijiazhuang, Hebei, China
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Liver-Kidney PatternsShijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Yucong Ma
- College of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Hebei University of Chinese MedicineShijiazhuang, Hebei, China
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Liver-Kidney PatternsShijiazhuang, Hebei, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine on Reproductive DiseaseShijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Ying Sun
- College of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Hebei University of Chinese MedicineShijiazhuang, Hebei, China
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Liver-Kidney PatternsShijiazhuang, Hebei, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine on Reproductive DiseaseShijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Huilan Du
- College of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Hebei University of Chinese MedicineShijiazhuang, Hebei, China
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Liver-Kidney PatternsShijiazhuang, Hebei, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine on Reproductive DiseaseShijiazhuang, Hebei, China
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Venturas M, Racowsky C, Needleman DJ. Metabolic imaging of human cumulus cells reveals associations with pregnancy and live birth. Hum Reprod 2024; 39:1176-1185. [PMID: 38719791 PMCID: PMC11145010 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deae087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2023] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/04/2024] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Can fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM) detect associations between the metabolic state of cumulus cell (CC) samples and the clinical outcome of the corresponding embryos? SUMMARY ANSWER FLIM can detect significant variations in the metabolism of CC associated with the corresponding embryos that resulted in a clinical pregnancy versus those that did not. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY CC and oocyte metabolic cooperativity are known to be necessary for the acquisition of developmental competence. However, reliable CC biomarkers that reflect oocyte viability and embryo developmental competency have yet to be established. Quantitative measures of CC metabolism could be used to aid in the evaluation of oocyte and embryo quality in ART. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION A prospective observational study was carried out. In total, 223 patients undergoing IVF with either conventional insemination or ICSI at a tertiary care center from February 2018 to May 2020 were included, with no exclusion criteria applied. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS This cohort had a mean maternal age of 36.5 ± 4.4 years and an average oocyte yield of 16.9 (range 1-50). One to four CC clusters from each patient were collected after oocyte retrieval and vitrified. CC metabolic state was assessed using FLIM to measure the autofluorescence of the molecules NAD(P)H and FAD+, which are essential for multiple metabolic pathways. CC clusters were tracked with their corresponding oocytes and associated embryos. Patient age, Day 3 and Day 5/6 embryo morphological grades, and clinical outcomes of embryos with traceable fate were recorded. Nine FLIM quantitative parameters were obtained for each CC cluster. We investigated associations between the FLIM parameters and patient maternal age, embryo morphological rank, ploidy, and clinical outcome, where false discovery rate P-values of <0.05 were considered statistically significant. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE A total of 851 CC clusters from 851 cumulus-oocyte complexes from 223 patients were collected. Of these CC clusters, 623 were imaged using FLIM. None of the measured CC FLIM parameters were correlated with Day 3 morphological rank or ploidy of the corresponding embryos, but FAD+ FLIM parameters were significantly associated with morphological rank of blastocysts. There were significant differences for FAD+ FLIM parameters (FAD+ fraction engaged and short lifetime) from CC clusters linked with embryos resulting in a clinical pregnancy compared with those that did not, as well as for CC clusters associated with embryos that resulted in a live birth compared those that did not. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Our data are based on a relatively low number of traceable embryos from an older patient population. Additionally, we only assessed CCs from 1 to 4 oocytes from each patient. Future work in a younger patient population with a larger number of traceable embryos, as well as measuring the metabolic state of CCs from all oocytes from each patient, would provide a better understanding of the potential utility of this technology for oocyte/embryo selection. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Metabolic imaging via FLIM is able to detect CC metabolic associations with maternal age and detects variations in the metabolism of CCs associated with oocytes leading to embryos that result in a clinical pregnancy and a live birth versus those that do not. Our findings suggest that FLIM of CCs may be used as a new approach to aid in the assessment of oocyte and embryo developmental competence in clinical ART. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) National Institutes of Health grant NIH R01HD092550-03 (to C.R., and D.J.N.). Becker and Hickl GmbH and Boston Electronics sponsored research with the loaning of equipment for FLIM. D.J.N. and C.R. are inventors on patent US20170039415A1. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Venturas
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology and School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Boston IVF-TheEugin Group, Waltham, MA, USA
| | - C Racowsky
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham & Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Hospital Foch, Suresnes, France
| | - D J Needleman
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology and School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Center for Computational Biology, Flatiron Institute, New York, USA
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Pasquariello R, Bogliolo L, Di Filippo F, Leoni GG, Nieddu S, Podda A, Brevini TAL, Gandolfi F. Use of assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) to shorten the generational interval in ruminants: current status and perspectives. Theriogenology 2024; 225:16-32. [PMID: 38788626 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2024.05.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2024] [Revised: 05/18/2024] [Accepted: 05/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
The challenges posed by climate change and increasing world population are stimulating renewed efforts for improving the sustainability of animal production. To meet such challenges, the contribution of genomic selection approaches, in combination with assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs), to spreading and preserving animal genetics is essential. The largest increase in genetic gain can be achieved by shortening the generation interval. This review provides an overview of the current status and progress of advanced ARTs that could be applied to reduce the generation time in both female and male of domestic ruminants. In females, the use of juvenile in vitro embryo transfer (JIVET) enables to generate offspring after the transfer of in vitro produced embryos derived from oocytes of prepubertal genetically superior donors reducing the generational interval and acceleration genetic gain. The current challenge is increasing in vitro embryo production (IVEP) from prepubertal derived oocytes which is still low and variable. The two main factors limiting IVEP success are the intrinsic quality of prepubertal oocytes and the culture systems for in vitro maturation (IVM). In males, advancements in ARTs are providing new strategies to in vitro propagate spermatogonia and differentiate them into mature sperm or even to recapitulate the whole process of spermatogenesis from embryonic stem cells. Moreover, the successful use of immature cells, such as round spermatids, for intracytoplasmic injection (ROSI) and IVEP could allow to complete the entire process in few months. However, these approaches have been successfully applied to human and mouse whereas only a few studies have been published in ruminants and results are still controversial. This is also dependent on the efficiency of ROSI that is limited by the current isolation and selection protocols of round spermatids. In conclusion, the current efforts for improving these reproductive methodologies could lead toward a significant reduction of the generational interval in livestock animals that could have a considerable impact on agriculture sustainability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rolando Pasquariello
- Department of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, University of Milan, Milano, Italy
| | - Luisa Bogliolo
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Francesca Di Filippo
- Department of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, University of Milan, Milano, Italy
| | | | - Stefano Nieddu
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Andrea Podda
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Tiziana A L Brevini
- Laboratory of Biomedical Embryology and Tissue Engineering, Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of Milan, Lodi, Italy
| | - Fulvio Gandolfi
- Department of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, University of Milan, Milano, Italy.
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Del Bianco D, Gentile R, Sallicandro L, Biagini A, Quellari PT, Gliozheni E, Sabbatini P, Ragonese F, Malvasi A, D’Amato A, Baldini GM, Trojano G, Tinelli A, Fioretti B. Electro-Metabolic Coupling of Cumulus-Oocyte Complex. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5349. [PMID: 38791387 PMCID: PMC11120766 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25105349] [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: 03/30/2024] [Revised: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Oocyte-cumulus cell interaction is essential for oocyte maturation and competence. The bidirectional crosstalk network mediated by gap junctions is fundamental for the metabolic cooperation between these cells. As cumulus cells exhibit a more glycolytic phenotype, they can provide metabolic substrates that the oocyte can use to produce ATP via oxidative phosphorylation. The impairment of mitochondrial activity plays a crucial role in ovarian aging and, thus, in fertility, determining the success or failure of assisted reproductive techniques. This review aims to deepen the knowledge about the electro-metabolic coupling of the cumulus-oocyte complex and to hypothesize a putative role of potassium channel modulators in order to improve fertility, promote intracellular Ca2+ influx, and increase the mitochondrial biogenesis and resulting ATP levels in cumulus cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diletta Del Bianco
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnologies, University of Perugia, Via dell’Elce di Sotto 8, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (D.D.B.); (R.G.); (L.S.); (A.B.); (P.T.Q.); (E.G.); (P.S.); (F.R.)
| | - Rosaria Gentile
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnologies, University of Perugia, Via dell’Elce di Sotto 8, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (D.D.B.); (R.G.); (L.S.); (A.B.); (P.T.Q.); (E.G.); (P.S.); (F.R.)
- Laboratorio Interdipartimentale di Fisiopatologia della Riproduzione, Università degli Studi di Perugia, Edificio C, Piano 3 P.zza Lucio Severi, 1, Sant’Andrea delle Fratte, 06132 Perugia, Italy
| | - Luana Sallicandro
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnologies, University of Perugia, Via dell’Elce di Sotto 8, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (D.D.B.); (R.G.); (L.S.); (A.B.); (P.T.Q.); (E.G.); (P.S.); (F.R.)
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Perugia Medical School, University of Perugia, Piazza Lucio Severi 1, 06132 Perugia, Italy
| | - Andrea Biagini
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnologies, University of Perugia, Via dell’Elce di Sotto 8, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (D.D.B.); (R.G.); (L.S.); (A.B.); (P.T.Q.); (E.G.); (P.S.); (F.R.)
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Perugia Medical School, University of Perugia, Piazza Lucio Severi 1, 06132 Perugia, Italy
| | - Paola Tiziana Quellari
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnologies, University of Perugia, Via dell’Elce di Sotto 8, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (D.D.B.); (R.G.); (L.S.); (A.B.); (P.T.Q.); (E.G.); (P.S.); (F.R.)
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Perugia Medical School, University of Perugia, Piazza Lucio Severi 1, 06132 Perugia, Italy
- ASST Grande Ospedale Metropolitano Niguarda, 20162 Milano, Italy
| | - Elko Gliozheni
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnologies, University of Perugia, Via dell’Elce di Sotto 8, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (D.D.B.); (R.G.); (L.S.); (A.B.); (P.T.Q.); (E.G.); (P.S.); (F.R.)
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Perugia Medical School, University of Perugia, Piazza Lucio Severi 1, 06132 Perugia, Italy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tirana, AL1005 Tirana, Albania
| | - Paola Sabbatini
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnologies, University of Perugia, Via dell’Elce di Sotto 8, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (D.D.B.); (R.G.); (L.S.); (A.B.); (P.T.Q.); (E.G.); (P.S.); (F.R.)
| | - Francesco Ragonese
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnologies, University of Perugia, Via dell’Elce di Sotto 8, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (D.D.B.); (R.G.); (L.S.); (A.B.); (P.T.Q.); (E.G.); (P.S.); (F.R.)
- Laboratorio Interdipartimentale di Fisiopatologia della Riproduzione, Università degli Studi di Perugia, Edificio C, Piano 3 P.zza Lucio Severi, 1, Sant’Andrea delle Fratte, 06132 Perugia, Italy
| | - Antonio Malvasi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari, 70121 Bari, Italy;
| | - Antonio D’Amato
- 1st Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Bari, 70121 Bari, Italy;
| | | | - Giuseppe Trojano
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, “Madonna delle Grazie” Hospital ASM, 75100 Matera, Italy;
| | - Andrea Tinelli
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and CERICSAL (CEntro di RIcerca Clinico SALentino), Veris delli Ponti Hospital, Via Giuseppina delli Ponti, 73020 Scorrano, Lecce, Italy
| | - Bernard Fioretti
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnologies, University of Perugia, Via dell’Elce di Sotto 8, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (D.D.B.); (R.G.); (L.S.); (A.B.); (P.T.Q.); (E.G.); (P.S.); (F.R.)
- Laboratorio Interdipartimentale di Fisiopatologia della Riproduzione, Università degli Studi di Perugia, Edificio C, Piano 3 P.zza Lucio Severi, 1, Sant’Andrea delle Fratte, 06132 Perugia, Italy
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Wu JS, Gong S, Zhang M, Ma RJ, Wang HL, Luo MJ, He N, Tan JH. Role and action mechanisms of miR-149 and miR-31 in regulating function of pig cumulus cells and oocytes. Theriogenology 2024; 220:84-95. [PMID: 38490113 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2024.03.006] [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: 01/10/2024] [Revised: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 03/10/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024]
Abstract
Understanding the mechanisms for oocyte maturation and optimizing the protocols for in vitro maturation (IVM) are greatly important for improving developmental potential of IVM oocytes. The miRNAs expressed in cumulus cells (CCs) play important roles in oocyte maturation and may be used as markers for selection of competent oocytes/embryos. Although a recent study from our group identified several new CCs-expressed miRNAs that regulate cumulus expansion (CE) and CC apoptosis (CCA) in mouse oocytes, validation of these findings and further investigation of mechanisms of action in other model species was essential before wider applications. By using both in vitro and in vivo pig oocyte models with significant differences in CE, CCA and developmental potential, the present study validated that miR-149 and miR-31 improved CE and developmental potential while suppressing CCA of pig oocytes. We demonstrated that miR-149 and miR-31 targeted SMAD family member 6 (SMAD6) and transforming growth factor β2 (TGFB2), respectively, in the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) signaling. Furthermore, both miR-149 and miR-31 increased CE and decreased CCA via activating SMAD family member 2 (SMAD2) and increasing the expression of SMAD2 and SMAD family member 4. In conclusion, the present results show that miR-149 and miR-31 improved CE and developmental potential while suppressing CCA of pig oocytes by activating the TGF-β signaling, suggesting that they might be used as markers for pig oocyte quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia-Shun Wu
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an City, 271018, PR China
| | - Shuai Gong
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an City, 271018, PR China
| | - Min Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an City, 271018, PR China
| | - Rui-Jie Ma
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an City, 271018, PR China
| | - Hui-Li Wang
- Institute of Animal Science, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing, 210014, PR China
| | - Ming-Jiu Luo
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an City, 271018, PR China
| | - Nan He
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an City, 271018, PR China.
| | - Jing-He Tan
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an City, 271018, PR China.
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7
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Gabryś J, Gurgul A, Szmatoła T, Kij-Mitka B, Andronowska A, Karnas E, Kucharski M, Wojciechowska-Puchałka J, Kochan J, Bugno-Poniewierska M. Follicular Fluid-Derived Extracellular Vesicles Influence on In Vitro Maturation of Equine Oocyte: Impact on Cumulus Cell Viability, Expansion and Transcriptome. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:3262. [PMID: 38542236 PMCID: PMC10970002 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25063262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Revised: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Cumulus cell (CC) expansion is pivotal for oocyte maturation, during which CCs release factors that initiate paracrine signaling within the follicular fluid (FF). The FF is abundant in extracellular vesicles (EVs) that facilitate intercellular communication. Although bovine and murine EVs can control cumulus expansion, these effects have not been observed in equines. This study aimed to assess the impact of FF-derived EVs (ffEVs) on equine CC expansion, viability, and transcriptome. Cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) that underwent in vitro maturation (IVM) in the presence (200 µg protein/mL) or absence (control) of ffEVs were assessed for cumulus expansion and viability. CCs were isolated after 12 h of IVM, followed by RNA extraction, cDNA library generation, and subsequent transcriptome analysis using next-generation sequencing. Confocal microscopy images illustrated the internalization of labeled ffEVs by CCs. Supplementation with ffEVs significantly enhanced cumulus expansion in both compacted (Cp, p < 0.0001) and expanded (Ex, p < 0.05) COCs, while viability increased in Cp groups (p < 0.01), but decreased in Ex groups (p < 0.05), compared to the controls. Although transcriptome analysis revealed a subtle effect on CC RNA profiles, differentially expressed genes encompassed processes (e.g., MAPK and Wnt signaling) potentially crucial for cumulus properties and, consequently, oocyte maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Gabryś
- Department of Animal Reproduction, Anatomy and Genomics, Faculty of Animal Science, University of Agriculture in Krakow, Mickiewicza 24/28, 30-059 Krakow, Poland; (J.G.); (B.K.-M.); (J.W.-P.); (J.K.); (M.B.-P.)
| | - Artur Gurgul
- Center for Experimental and Innovative Medicine, University of Agriculture in Krakow, Rędzina 1c, 30-248 Krakow, Poland;
| | - Tomasz Szmatoła
- Center for Experimental and Innovative Medicine, University of Agriculture in Krakow, Rędzina 1c, 30-248 Krakow, Poland;
| | - Barbara Kij-Mitka
- Department of Animal Reproduction, Anatomy and Genomics, Faculty of Animal Science, University of Agriculture in Krakow, Mickiewicza 24/28, 30-059 Krakow, Poland; (J.G.); (B.K.-M.); (J.W.-P.); (J.K.); (M.B.-P.)
| | - Aneta Andronowska
- Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Tuwima 10, 10-748 Olsztyn, Poland;
| | - Elżbieta Karnas
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 7, 30-387 Krakow, Poland;
| | - Mirosław Kucharski
- Department of Animal Physiology and Endocrinology, University of Agriculture in Krakow, Mickiewicza 24/28, 30-059 Krakow, Poland;
| | - Joanna Wojciechowska-Puchałka
- Department of Animal Reproduction, Anatomy and Genomics, Faculty of Animal Science, University of Agriculture in Krakow, Mickiewicza 24/28, 30-059 Krakow, Poland; (J.G.); (B.K.-M.); (J.W.-P.); (J.K.); (M.B.-P.)
| | - Joanna Kochan
- Department of Animal Reproduction, Anatomy and Genomics, Faculty of Animal Science, University of Agriculture in Krakow, Mickiewicza 24/28, 30-059 Krakow, Poland; (J.G.); (B.K.-M.); (J.W.-P.); (J.K.); (M.B.-P.)
| | - Monika Bugno-Poniewierska
- Department of Animal Reproduction, Anatomy and Genomics, Faculty of Animal Science, University of Agriculture in Krakow, Mickiewicza 24/28, 30-059 Krakow, Poland; (J.G.); (B.K.-M.); (J.W.-P.); (J.K.); (M.B.-P.)
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Zarezadeh R, Abbasi K, Aboutalebi Vand Beilankouhi E, Navali N, Hakimi P, Fattahi A, Farzadi L. Programmed cell death 4: A novel player in the pathogenesis of polycystic ovary syndrome. Cell Biochem Funct 2024; 42:e3905. [PMID: 38115175 DOI: 10.1002/cbf.3905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a pathological condition recognized by menstrual cycle irregularities, androgen excess, and polycystic ovarian morphology, affecting a significant proportion of women of childbearing age and accounting for the most prevalent cause of anovulatory sterility. In addition, PCOS is frequently accompanied by metabolic and endocrine disturbances such as obesity, dyslipidemia, insulin resistance, and hyperinsulinemia, indicating the multiplicity of mechanisms implicated in the progression of PCOS. However, the exact pathogenesis of PCOS is yet to be elucidated. Programmed cell death 4 (PDCD4) is a ubiquitously expressed protein that contributes to the regulation of various cellular processes, including gene expression, cell cycle progression, proliferation, and apoptosis. Despite some disparities concerning its exact cellular effects, PDCD4 is generally characterized as a protein that inhibits cell cycle progression and proliferation and instead drives the cell into apoptosis. The apoptosis of granulosa cells (GCs) is speculated to take a major part in the occurrence and progression of PCOS by ceasing antral follicle development and compromising oocyte competence. Given the possible involvement of GC apoptosis in the progression of PCOS, as well as the contribution of PDCD4 to the regulation of cell apoptosis and the development of metabolic diseases, the current review aimed to discuss whether or how PDCD4 can play a role in the pathogenesis of PCOS by affecting GC apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reza Zarezadeh
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Department of Biochemistry and Clinical Laboratories, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Khadijeh Abbasi
- Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | | | - Nazli Navali
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Parvin Hakimi
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Amir Fattahi
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Laya Farzadi
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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9
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Haug LM, Wilson RC, Gaustad AH, Jochems R, Kommisrud E, Grindflek E, Alm-Kristiansen AH. Cumulus Cell and Oocyte Gene Expression in Prepubertal Gilts and Sows Identifies Cumulus Cells as a Prime Informative Parameter of Oocyte Quality. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:1484. [PMID: 38132310 PMCID: PMC10740982 DOI: 10.3390/biology12121484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
Cumulus cells (CCs) are pivotal during oocyte development. This study aimed to identify novel marker genes for porcine oocyte quality by examining the expression of selected genes in CCs and oocytes, employing the model of oocytes from prepubertal animals being of reduced quality compared to those from adult animals. Total RNA was extracted either directly after follicle aspiration or after in vitro maturation, followed by RT-qPCR. Immature gilt CCs accumulated BBOX1 transcripts, involved in L-carnitine biosynthesis, to a 14.8-fold higher level (p < 0.05) relative to sows, while for CPT2, participating in fatty acid oxidation, the level was 0.48 (p < 0.05). While showing no differences between gilt and sow CCs after maturation, CPT2 and BBOX1 levels in oocytes were higher in gilts at both time points. The apparent delayed lipid metabolism and reduced accumulation of ALDOA and G6PD transcripts in gilt CCs after maturation, implying downregulation of glycolysis and the pentose phosphate pathway, suggest gilt cumulus-oocyte complexes have inadequate ATP stores and oxidative stress balance compared to sows at the end of maturation. Reduced expression of BBOX1 and higher expression of CPT2 in CCs before maturation and higher expression of G6PD and ALDOA after maturation are new potential markers of oocyte quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Marijke Haug
- Department of Biotechnology, Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences, 2318 Hamar, Norway; (L.M.H.); (R.C.W.); (R.J.); (E.K.)
| | - Robert C. Wilson
- Department of Biotechnology, Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences, 2318 Hamar, Norway; (L.M.H.); (R.C.W.); (R.J.); (E.K.)
| | | | - Reina Jochems
- Department of Biotechnology, Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences, 2318 Hamar, Norway; (L.M.H.); (R.C.W.); (R.J.); (E.K.)
- Norsvin SA, 2317 Hamar, Norway; (A.H.G.); (E.G.)
| | - Elisabeth Kommisrud
- Department of Biotechnology, Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences, 2318 Hamar, Norway; (L.M.H.); (R.C.W.); (R.J.); (E.K.)
| | | | - Anne Hege Alm-Kristiansen
- Department of Biotechnology, Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences, 2318 Hamar, Norway; (L.M.H.); (R.C.W.); (R.J.); (E.K.)
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10
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Liu ZB, Zhang JB, Li SP, Yu WJ, Pei N, Jia HT, Li Z, Lv WF, Wang J, Kim NH, Yuan B, Jiang H. ID3 regulates progesterone synthesis in bovine cumulus cells through modulation of mitochondrial function. Theriogenology 2023; 209:141-150. [PMID: 37393744 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.06.035] [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: 04/06/2023] [Revised: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023]
Abstract
DNA binding inhibitory factor 3 (ID3) has been shown to have a key role in maintaining proliferation and differentiation. It has been suggested that ID3 may also affect mammalian ovarian function. However, the specific roles and mechanisms are unclear. In this study, the expression level of ID3 in cumulus cells (CCs) was inhibited by siRNA, and the downstream regulatory network of ID3 was uncovered by high-throughput sequencing. The effects of ID3 inhibition on mitochondrial function, progesterone synthesis, and oocyte maturation were further explored. The GO and KEGG analysis results showed that after ID3 inhibition, differentially expressed genes, including StAR, CYP11A1, and HSD3B1, were involved in cholesterol-related processes and progesterone-mediated oocyte maturation. Apoptosis in CC was increased, while the phosphorylation level of ERK1/2 was inhibited. During this process, mitochondrial dynamics and function were disrupted. In addition, the first polar body extrusion rate, ATP production and antioxidation capacity were reduced, which suggested that ID3 inhibition led to poor oocyte maturation and quality. The results will provide a new basis for understanding the biological roles of ID3 as well as cumulus cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zi-Bin Liu
- Department of Laboratory Animals, Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Model, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, 130062, People's Republic of China
| | - Jia-Bao Zhang
- Department of Laboratory Animals, Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Model, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, 130062, People's Republic of China
| | - Sheng-Peng Li
- Department of Laboratory Animals, Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Model, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, 130062, People's Republic of China
| | - Wen-Jie Yu
- Department of Laboratory Animals, Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Model, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, 130062, People's Republic of China
| | - Na Pei
- Department of Laboratory Animals, Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Model, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, 130062, People's Republic of China
| | - Hai-Tao Jia
- Department of Laboratory Animals, Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Model, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, 130062, People's Republic of China
| | - Ze Li
- Department of Laboratory Animals, Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Model, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, 130062, People's Republic of China
| | - Wen-Fa Lv
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, Jilin, 130118, People's Republic of China
| | - Jun Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, Jilin, 130118, People's Republic of China
| | - Nam-Hyung Kim
- Department of Laboratory Animals, Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Model, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, 130062, People's Republic of China; Department of Animal Science, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Chungbuk, 28644, Republic of Korea
| | - Bao Yuan
- Department of Laboratory Animals, Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Model, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, 130062, People's Republic of China.
| | - Hao Jiang
- Department of Laboratory Animals, Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Model, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, 130062, People's Republic of China.
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11
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Andrews CJ, Yapura J, Potter MA, McGlade K, Thomas DG. Prolonged glucocorticoid administration affects oocyte morphology in cats (Felis catus) undergoing an ovarian stimulation protocol. Theriogenology 2023; 208:77-87. [PMID: 37302246 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.05.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Revised: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
While captivity-related stress and the associated rise in baseline glucocorticoid (GC) concentrations have been linked to ovarian quiescence in some felid species, no study has examined the effects of elevated GC on oocyte quality. This study examined the effects of exogenous GC administration on the ovarian response and oocyte quality of domestic cats after an ovarian stimulation protocol. Entire mature female cats were divided into treatment (n = 6) and control (n = 6) groups. Cats in the GC treatment (GCT) group were given 1 mg kg-1 oral prednisolone daily from Day 0-45. All cats (n = 12) were given 0.088 mg kg-1 day-1 progesterone orally from Day 0-37, before treatment with 75 IU eCG im to induce follicular growth on Day 40, followed by 50 IU hCG im 80 h later to induce ovulation. Cats were ovariohysterectomised 30 h after the hCG treatment. Blood samples were collected on Days 0, 10, 30 and 40 (prior to eCG treatment), 80 h after eCG treatment, and on Day 45 for cortisol, glucose, prednisolone, oestradiol, and progesterone analysis. Cortisol concentrations did not differ between treatment groups throughout the study. Mean glucose concentrations were higher in the GCT cats (P = 0.004). Prednisolone was undetectable in all samples. Oestradiol and progesterone concentrations confirmed that the eCG treatment stimulated follicular activity and ovulation in all cats. Following ovariohysterectomy, the ovarian responses were graded (1 = excellent, 4 = poor) and oocytes retrieved from the oviducts. Each oocyte was given a total oocyte score (TOS: using an 9-point scale, 8 = best) based on four parameters: oocyte morphology, size, ooplasm uniformity and granularity, and zona pellucida (ZP) thickness and variation. Ovulation was confirmed in all cats, with a mean of 10.5 ± 1.1 ovulations per cat. Ovarian mass, ovarian response, number of ovulations, and oocyte recovery did not differ between groups. Oocyte diameter did not differ between the groups, but the ZP was thinner in the GCT group (3.1 ± 0.3 μm vs. 4.1 ± 0.3 μm, P = 0.03). The TOS was similar between treatment and control cats, but the ooplasm grade was lower (1.5 ± 0.1 vs. 1.9 ± 0.1, P = 0.01) and there was a tendency for ZP grade to be poorer (0.8 ± 0.1 vs. 1.2 ± 0.2; P = 0.08) in the treatment group. In conclusion, the GC treatment resulted in morphological changes to oocytes collected following ovarian stimulation. Whether these changes would affect fertility warrants further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher J Andrews
- Animal Science Group, School of Agriculture and Environment, Massey University, Private Bag 11-222, Palmerston North, 4442, New Zealand.
| | - Jimena Yapura
- School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Private Bag 11-222, Palmerston North, 4442, New Zealand.
| | - Murray A Potter
- Wildlife and Ecology Group, School of Natural Sciences, Massey University, Private Bag 11-222, Palmerston North, 4442, New Zealand.
| | - Kevanne McGlade
- School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Private Bag 11-222, Palmerston North, 4442, New Zealand.
| | - David G Thomas
- Animal Science Group, School of Agriculture and Environment, Massey University, Private Bag 11-222, Palmerston North, 4442, New Zealand.
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Suebthawinkul C, Babayev E, Lee HC, Duncan FE. Morphokinetic parameters of mouse oocyte meiotic maturation and cumulus expansion are not affected by reproductive age or ploidy status. J Assist Reprod Genet 2023; 40:1197-1213. [PMID: 37012451 PMCID: PMC10239409 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-023-02779-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Morphokinetic analysis using a closed time-lapse monitoring system (EmbryoScope + ™) provides quantitative metrics of meiotic progression and cumulus expansion. The goal of this study was to use a physiologic aging mouse model, in which egg aneuploidy levels increase, to determine whether there are age-dependent differences in morphokinetic parameters of oocyte maturation. METHODS Denuded oocytes and intact cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) were isolated from reproductively young and old mice and in vitro matured in the EmbryoScope + ™. Morphokinetic parameters of meiotic progression and cumulus expansion were evaluated, compared between reproductively young and old mice, and correlated with egg ploidy status. RESULTS Oocytes from reproductively old mice were smaller than young counterparts in terms of GV area (446.42 ± 4.15 vs. 416.79 ± 5.24 µm2, p < 0.0001) and oocyte area (4195.71 ± 33.10 vs. 4081.62 ± 41.04 µm2, p < 0.05). In addition, the aneuploidy incidence was higher in eggs with advanced reproductive age (24-27% vs. 8-9%, p < 0.05). There were no differences in the morphokinetic parameters of oocyte maturation between oocytes from reproductively young and old mice with respect to time to germinal vesicle breakdown (GVBD) (1.03 ± 0.03 vs. 1.01 ± 0.04 h), polar body extrusion (PBE) (8.56 ± 0.11 vs. 8.52 ± 0.15 h), duration of meiosis I (7.58 ± 0.10 vs. 7.48 ± 0.11 h), and kinetics of cumulus expansion (0.093 ± 0.002 vs. 0.089 ± 0.003 µm/min). All morphokinetic parameters of oocyte maturation were similar between euploid and aneuploid eggs irrespective of age. CONCLUSION There is no association between age or ploidy and the morphokinetics of mouse oocyte in vitro maturation (IVM). Future studies are needed to evaluate whether there is an association between morphokinetic dynamics of mouse IVM and embryo developmental competence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chanakarn Suebthawinkul
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Elnur Babayev
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Hoi Chang Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Francesca E Duncan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA.
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13
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Makhijani RB, Bartolucci AF, Pru CA, Pru JK, Peluso JJ. Nonerythroid hemoglobin promotes human cumulus cell viability and the developmental capacity of the human oocyte. F&S SCIENCE 2023; 4:121-132. [PMID: 36933864 PMCID: PMC11003276 DOI: 10.1016/j.xfss.2023.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the relationship between the levels of cumulus cell (CC) hemoglobin messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) and the developmental potential of the associated oocyte and whether hemoglobin protects the CCs from oxidative stress-induced apoptosis. DESIGN Laboratory-based study. SETTING University laboratory and university-affiliated in vitro fertilization center. PATIENT(S) Cumulus cells from the oocytes of patients who underwent in vitro fertilization with intracytoplasmic sperm injection with and without preimplantation genetic testing between 2018 and 2020. INTERVENTION(S) Studies on individual and pooled CCs collected at the time of oocyte retrieval or cultured under 20% or 5% O2. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis of individual and pooled patient CC samples were used to monitor the hemoglobin mRNA levels. Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction arrays were used to assess genes that regulate oxidative stress in CCs associated with aneuploid and euploid blastocysts. Studies were conducted to assess the effect of oxidative stress on the rate of apoptosis, level of reactive oxygen species, and gene expression in CCs in vitro. RESULT(S) Compared with CCs associated with arrested and aneuploid blastocysts, the mRNA levels encoding the alpha and beta chains of hemoglobin increased by 2.9- and 2.3-fold in CCs associated with euploid blastocysts, respectively. The mRNA levels encoding the alpha and beta chains of hemoglobin also increased by 3.8- and 4.5-fold in CCs cultured under 5% O2 vs. 20% O2, respectively, and multiple regulators of oxidative stress were overexpressed in cells cultured under 20% O2 compared with those under 5% O2. However, the rate of apoptosis and amount of mitochondrial reactive oxidative species increased by 1.25-fold in CCs cultured under 20% O2 compared with those under 5% O2. Variable amounts of the alpha and beta chains of hemoglobin were also detected within the zona pellucida and oocytes. CONCLUSION(S) Higher levels of nonerythroid hemoglobin in CCs are associated with oocytes that result in euploid blastocysts. Hemoglobin may protect CCs from oxidative stress-induced apoptosis, which may enhance cumulus-oocyte interactions. Moreover, CC-derived hemoglobin may be transferred to the oocytes and protect it from the adverse effects of oxidative stress that occurs in vivo and in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alison F Bartolucci
- Center for Advanced Reproductive Services, Farmington, Connecticut; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut
| | - Cindy A Pru
- Department of Animal Science, Program in Reproductive Biology, University of Wyoming, Laramie, Wyoming
| | - James K Pru
- Department of Animal Science, Program in Reproductive Biology, University of Wyoming, Laramie, Wyoming
| | - John J Peluso
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut; Department of Cell Biology, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut.
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Wang X, Wang L, Xiang W. Mechanisms of ovarian aging in women: a review. J Ovarian Res 2023; 16:67. [PMID: 37024976 PMCID: PMC10080932 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-023-01151-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Ovarian aging is a natural and physiological aging process characterized by loss of quantity and quality of oocyte or follicular pool. As it is generally accepted that women are born with a finite follicle pool that will go through constant decline without renewing, which, together with decreased oocyte quality, makes a severe situation for women who is of advanced age but desperate for a healthy baby. The aim of our review was to investigate mechanisms leading to ovarian aging by discussing both extra- and intra- ovarian factors and to identify genetic characteristics of ovarian aging. The mechanisms were identified as both extra-ovarian alternation of hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis and intra-ovarian alternation of ovary itself, including telomere, mitochondria, oxidative stress, DNA damage, protein homeostasis, aneuploidy, apoptosis and autophagy. Moreover, here we reviewed related Genome-wide association studies (GWAS studies) from 2009 to 2021 and next generation sequencing (NGS) studies of primary ovarian insufficiency (POI) in order to describe genetic characteristics of ovarian aging. It is reasonable to wish more reliable anti-aging interventions for ovarian aging as the exploration of mechanisms and genetics being progressing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangfei Wang
- Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Lingjuan Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Wenpei Xiang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
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15
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Lemseffer Y, Terret ME, Campillo C, Labrune E. Methods for Assessing Oocyte Quality: A Review of Literature. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10092184. [PMID: 36140285 PMCID: PMC9495944 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10092184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2022] [Revised: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The rate of infertility continues to rise in the world for several reasons, including the age of conception and current lifestyle. We list in this paper potential non-invasive and invasive techniques to assess oocyte quality. We searched the database PubMed using the terms “oocytes AND quality AND evaluation”. In the first part, we study the morphological criteria, compartment by compartment, to then focus in a second part on more objective techniques such as genetics, molecular, apoptosis, or human follicular fluid that contain biologically active molecules. The main criteria used to assess oocyte quality are morphological; however, several other techniques have been studied in women to improve oocyte quality assessment, but most of them are invasive and not usable in routine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yassir Lemseffer
- Hospices Civils de Lyon, Service de Médecine de la Reproduction, 59 Bd. Pinel, 69500 Bron, France
- Faculté de Médecine, Université Claude Bernard, Lyon 01, 8 Av. Rockefeller, 69008 Lyon, France
- Correspondence:
| | - Marie-Emilie Terret
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Biology (CIRB), College de France, CNRS, INSERM, Université PSL, 75006 Paris, France
| | - Clément Campillo
- LAMBE, Université d’Évry, CNRS, CEA, Université Paris-Saclay, 91025 Évry-Courcouronnes, France
| | - Elsa Labrune
- Hospices Civils de Lyon, Service de Médecine de la Reproduction, 59 Bd. Pinel, 69500 Bron, France
- Faculté de Médecine, Université Claude Bernard, Lyon 01, 8 Av. Rockefeller, 69008 Lyon, France
- INSERM U1208, Stem Cells and Brain Institute, 69500 Bron, France
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The Molecular Quality and Mitochondrial Activity of Porcine Cumulus-Oocyte Complexes Are Affected by Their Exposure to Three Endocrine-Active Compounds under 3D In Vitro Maturation Conditions. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23094572. [PMID: 35562963 PMCID: PMC9100547 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23094572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Revised: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Thus far, the potential short- and long-term detrimental effects of a variety of environmental chemicals designated as endocrine-active compounds (EACs) have been found to interfere with histo- and anatomo-physiological functions of the reproductive system in humans and wildlife species. For those reasons, this study sought to examine whether selected EACs, which encompass the fungicide vinclozolin (Vnz), the androgenic anabolic steroid nandrolone (Ndn) and the immunosuppressant cyclosporin A (CsA), affect the developmental competence and molecular quality (MQ) of porcine cumulus–oocyte complexes (COCs) subjected to in vitro maturation (IVM) under 3D culture conditions. The COCs underwent 3D-IVM in the presence of Vnz, Ndn or CsA for 48 h. To explore whether the selected EACs induce internucleosomal DNA fragmentation in cumulus cells (CCs), TUNEL-assisted detection of late apoptotic cells was performed. Additionally, for the detailed evaluation of pro- and antiapoptotic pathways in COCs, apoptosis proteome profiler arrays were used. To determine changes in intracellular metabolism in COCs, comprehensive assessments of mitochondrial ultrastructure and activity were carried out. Moreover, the relative abundances (RAs) of mRNAs transcribed from genes that are involved in scavenging reactive oxygen species (ROS), such as SIRT3 and FOXO3, and intramitochondrial bioenergetic balance, such as ATP synthase subunit (ATP5A1), were ascertained. Finally, to investigate the extent of progression of oocyte maturation, the intraooplasmic levels of cAMP and the RAs of mRNA transcripts encoding regulatory and biocatalytic subunits of a heterodimeric meiosis-promoting factor, termed cyclin B1 (CCNB1) and cyclin-dependent kinase 1 (CDC2), were also estimated. The obtained results provide, for the first time, strong evidence that both Vnz and Ndn decrease the developmental competence of oocytes and stimulate apoptosis processes in CCs. The present study is also the first to highlight that Vnz accelerates the maturation process in immature oocytes due to both increased ROS production and the augmented RA of the CCNB1 gene. Furthermore, Vnz was proven to trigger proapoptotic events in CCs by prompting the activity of the FOXO3 transcription factor, which regulates the mitochondrial apoptosis pathway. In turn, Ndn was shown to inhibit oocyte maturation by inducing molecular events that ultimately lead to an increase in the intraooplasmic cAMP concentration. However, due to the simultaneous enhancement of the expression of TNF-β and HSP27 proteins in CCs, Ndn might be responsible for the onset of their neoplastic transformation. Finally, our current investigation is the first to clearly demonstrate that although CsA did not interfere with the nuclear and cytoplasmic maturation of oocytes, by inducing mitophagy in CCs, it disrupted oocyte metabolism, consequently attenuating the parameters related to the MQ of COCs. Summing up, Vnz, Ndn and CsA reduced not only the processes of growth and IVM but also the MQ of porcine COCs, which might make them unsuitable for assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) such as in vitro fertilization by either gamete co-incubation or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) and cloning by somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT).
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Poro-viscoelastic behaviour of the zona pellucida: Impact of three-dimensional modelling on material characterisation. J Mech Behav Biomed Mater 2022; 131:105211. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jmbbm.2022.105211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2021] [Revised: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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18
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Zhao Z, Fan Q, Zhu Q, He R, Li Y, Liu C, Wang J, Liang X. Decreased fatty acids induced granulosa cell apoptosis in patients with diminished ovarian reserve. J Assist Reprod Genet 2022; 39:1105-1114. [PMID: 35347502 PMCID: PMC9107543 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-022-02462-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate whether fatty acid changes in granulosa cells (GCs) underly the pathogenic mechanisms of diminished ovarian reserve (DOR). METHODS GCs were obtained from patients with DOR (n = 70) and normal ovarian reserve (NOR, n = 70). Analysis of fatty acids changes in GCs was then analyzed. RESULTS Patients with DOR had significantly lower levels of antral follicle count and anti-Mullerian hormone and higher levels of follicle-stimulating hormone compared with NOR patients (P < 0.001). The good-quality embryo rate was notably decreased in DOR patients (51.99 vs 39.52%, P < 0.05). A total of 15 significantly decreased fatty acids in GCs from patients with DOR. The ATP levels were markedly lower in DOR patients than in NOR patients (39.07 ± 12.89 vs 23.21 ± 13.69%, P < 0.05). Mitochondrial membrane potential decreased in DOR patients (P < 0.01). In GCs from DOR patients, the β-oxidation genes (HADHA and ACSL) and DNA repair genes (PRKDC and RAD50) were significantly downregulated (P < 0.05). The γH2AX foci/nucleus ratio in DOR patients markedly increased relative to that of NOR patients (0.31 ± 0.03 vs 0.87 ± 0.07, P < 0.001). Meanwhile, the apoptosis rate of GCs was significantly higher in DOR patients (6.43 ± 2.11 vs 48.06 ± 6.72%, P < 0.01). CONCLUSION GC apoptosis resulting from the decrease of fatty acids, and associated with reduced ATP production and DNA damage, may contribute to the pathogenic mechanisms responsible for DOR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongying Zhao
- The First Clinical Medical College of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Qigang Fan
- The First Clinical Medical College of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Qinying Zhu
- The First Clinical Medical College of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Ruifen He
- The First Clinical Medical College of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Yi Li
- The First Clinical Medical College of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Chang Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory for Gynecologic Oncology Gansu Province, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, The First Clinical Medical College of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory for Gynecologic Oncology Gansu Province, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, The First Clinical Medical College of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Xiaolei Liang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory for Gynecologic Oncology Gansu Province, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, The First Clinical Medical College of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China.
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19
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Bulgurcuoglu Kuran S, Altun A, Karamustafaoglu Balci B, Keskin I, Hocaoglu M. Expression of pro-apoptotic and anti-apoptotic proteins in granulosa cells of women with diminished ovarian reserve. J Assist Reprod Genet 2022; 39:765-775. [PMID: 35142968 PMCID: PMC8995233 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-022-02422-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate the expressions of caspase-3 and cytochrome c and heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70) in granulosa cells (GCs) from women with normal ovarian reserve (NOR) and diminished ovarian reserve (DOR) undergoing intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). METHODS GCs were collected from 117 infertile women during oocyte retrieval. Patients were classified into four groups as follows: DOR-COC score of 0, DOR-COC score of I, NOR-COC score of 0, and NOR-COC score of I. The caspase-3, cytochrome c, and Hsp70 analyses were performed immunohistochemically in GCs. The ICSI outcomes were evaluated prospectively. RESULTS The clinical pregnancy and live birth rates were higher in DOR-COC score of I (15, 30.6%; 14, 38.9%) and NOR-COC score of I (19, 38.77%; 19, 52.7%) groups, compared with DOR-COC score of 0 (12, 24.4%; 3, 6.1%) and NOR-COC score of 0 (3, 6.1%; 0%) groups (p = 0.0001; 0.00002), respectively. Caspase-3 and cytochrome c expression levels were higher in DOR-COC score of 0 (23, 65.7%; 25, 71.4%) and NOR-COC score of 0 groups (19, 61.3%; 20, 64.5%), compared with DOR-COC score of I (8, 32%; 9, 36%) and NOR-COC score of I groups (7, 26.9%; 8, 30.8%) (p = 0.00297; p = 0.002), respectively. Lower expression levels of Hsp70 were found in DOR-COC score of 0 (11, 31.4%) and NOR-COC score of 0 groups (10, 32.3%), compared with DOR-COC score of I (16, 64%) and NOR-COC score of I groups (20, 76.9%) (p = 0.001), respectively. Hsp70 expression levels were positively correlated with the number of day 3 good-quality embryo and negatively correlated with estradiol levels in the DOR group. CONCLUSION Our data suggest that COC score of 0 is associated with increased expression levels of apoptotic proteins, decreased expression levels of anti-apoptotic protein, and poor ICSI clinical outcomes in women with and without DOR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sibel Bulgurcuoglu Kuran
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology School of Medicine, IVF Unit, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey TR 34452
| | - Ayse Altun
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical Faculty, Istanbul Medipol University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Burcin Karamustafaoglu Balci
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology School of Medicine, IVF Unit, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey TR 34452
| | - Ilknur Keskin
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical Faculty, Istanbul Medipol University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Meryem Hocaoglu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Goztepe Prof. Dr. Suleyman Yalcin City Hospital Affiliated To Istanbul Medeniyet University, Istanbul, Turkey
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20
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Babayev E, Duncan FE. Age-associated changes in cumulus cells and follicular fluid: the local oocyte microenvironment as a determinant of gamete quality. Biol Reprod 2022; 106:351-365. [PMID: 34982142 PMCID: PMC8862720 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioab241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Revised: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The ovary is the first organ to age in humans with functional decline evident already in women in their early 30s. Reproductive aging is characterized by a decrease in oocyte quantity and quality, which is associated with an increase in infertility, spontaneous abortions, and birth defects. Reproductive aging also has implications for overall health due to decreased endocrinological output. Understanding the mechanisms underlying reproductive aging has significant societal implications as women globally are delaying childbearing and medical interventions have greatly increased the interval between menopause and total lifespan. Age-related changes inherent to the female gamete are well-characterized and include defects in chromosome and mitochondria structure, function, and regulation. More recently, it has been appreciated that the extra-follicular ovarian environment may have important direct or indirect impacts on the developing gamete, and age-dependent changes include increased fibrosis, inflammation, stiffness, and oxidative damage. The cumulus cells and follicular fluid that directly surround the oocyte during its final growth phase within the antral follicle represent additional critical local microenvironments. Here we systematically review the literature and evaluate the studies that investigated the age-related changes in cumulus cells and follicular fluid. Our findings demonstrate unique genetic, epigenetic, transcriptomic, and proteomic changes with associated metabolomic alterations, redox status imbalance, and increased apoptosis in the local oocyte microenvironment. We propose a model of how these changes interact, which may explain the rapid decline in gamete quality with age. We also review the limitations of published studies and highlight future research frontiers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elnur Babayev
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Francesca E Duncan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
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21
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Báez F, López Darriulat R, Rodríguez-Osorio N, Viñoles C. Effect of season on germinal vesicle stage, quality, and subsequent in vitro developmental competence in bovine cumulus-oocyte complexes. J Therm Biol 2022; 103:103171. [PMID: 35027190 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtherbio.2021.103171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2021] [Revised: 12/11/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Although the reproductive performance of grazing cattle is lower in summer compared to winter, the effect of season on oocyte developmental competence has not been thoroughly examined. We measured the effect of season on oocyte chromatin compaction, cumulus cell quality, and embryonic development after in vitro fertilization. Cumulus oocytes-complexes (COCs) were collected from abattoir cows' ovaries during the winter and summer months. First, we evaluated the degree of chromatin compaction in germinal vesicle (GV) oocytes (GV1 through GV3), which is associated with different degrees of developmental competence. Then, we determined the apoptotic index in cumulus cells from immature and in vitro matured COCs. Finally, in vitro matured oocytes were fertilized to determine blastocyst rate and embryo quality. During the summer months, we observed a significantly lower proportion of oocytes reaching the GV3 stage and higher levels of DNA fragmentation in cumulus cell. As a result, blastocyst yield and quality were reduced during the summer months. In conclusion, summer negatively affected oocyte GV stage progression, cumulus cell quality, and embryo development. Increased cumulus cell DNA fragmentation during summer, may partially explain the reduced oocyte maturation capacity, considering the relevance of cumulus-oocyte communication during this stage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco Báez
- Polo de Desarrollo Universitario (PDU) Instituto Superior de la Carne, Centro Universitario Regional Noreste, UdelaR, Ruta 5, km 386, Tacuarembó 45000, Uruguay.
| | - Ramiro López Darriulat
- Polo de Desarrollo Universitario (PDU) Instituto Superior de la Carne, Centro Universitario Regional Noreste, UdelaR, Ruta 5, km 386, Tacuarembó 45000, Uruguay
| | - Nélida Rodríguez-Osorio
- Unidad de Genómica y Bioinformática, Departamento de Ciencias Biológicas, Centro Universitario Regional Litoral Norte, UdelaR, Rivera 1350, Salto 50000, Uruguay
| | - Carolina Viñoles
- PDU Centro de Salud Reproductiva de Rumiantes en Sistemas Agroforestales, Centro Universitario Regional Noreste, UdelaR, Ruta 26, km 408, Cerro Largo 37000, Uruguay
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22
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Lin X, Fu B, Xiong Y, Xu S, Liu J, Zaky MY, Qiu D, Wu H. Folic acid Ameliorates the Declining Quality of Sodium Fluoride-Exposed Mouse Oocytes through the Sirt1/ Sod2 Pathway. Aging Dis 2022; 13:1471-1487. [PMID: 36186127 PMCID: PMC9466976 DOI: 10.14336/ad.2022.0217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Excessive sodium fluoride (NaF) intake interferes with reproductive function in humans and animals; however, strategies to prevent these effects are still underexplored. Here, we showed that in vivo and in vitro supplementation of folic acid (FA) efficaciously improved the quality of NaF-exposed oocytes. FA supplementation not only increased ovulation of oocytes from NaF-treated mice but also enhanced oocyte meiotic competency and fertilization ability by restoring the spindle/chromosome structure. Moreover, FA supplementation could exert a beneficial effect on NaF- exposed oocytes by restoring mitochondrial function, eliminating reactive oxygen species accumulation to suppress apoptosis. We also found that FA supplementation restored the defective phenotypes in oocytes through a Sirt1/Sod2-dependent mechanism. Inhibition of Sirt1 with EX527 abolished the FA-mediated improvement in NaF-exposed oocyte quality. Collectively, our data indicated that FA supplementation is a feasible approach to protect oocytes from NaF-related deterioration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyuan Lin
- School of Life Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing 401331, China.
| | - Beibei Fu
- School of Life Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing 401331, China.
| | - Yan Xiong
- School of Life Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing 401331, China.
| | - Shiyao Xu
- School of Life Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing 401331, China.
| | - Jin Liu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China.
| | - Mohamed Y. Zaky
- Molecular Physiology Division, Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, Egypt.
| | - Dan Qiu
- School of Life Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing 401331, China.
- Center of Space Exploration, Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
- Correspondence should be addressed to: Dr. Haibo Wu, School of Life Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing 401331, China. ; Dr. Dan Qiu, School of Life Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing 401331, China.
| | - Haibo Wu
- School of Life Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing 401331, China.
- Correspondence should be addressed to: Dr. Haibo Wu, School of Life Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing 401331, China. ; Dr. Dan Qiu, School of Life Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing 401331, China.
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23
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Maside C, Sánchez-Ajofrín I, Medina-Chávez D, Alves B, Garde JJ, Soler AJ. Oocyte Morphometric Assessment and Gene Expression Profiling of Oocytes and Cumulus Cells as Biomarkers of Oocyte Competence in Sheep. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11102818. [PMID: 34679840 PMCID: PMC8532595 DOI: 10.3390/ani11102818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2021] [Revised: 09/19/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Oocyte quality is crucial for subsequent embryo development and so it is a major challenge in assisted reproductive technologies. The aim of the present work was to evaluate the morphometric parameters of oocytes (experiment 1) and the relative gene expression of oocytes and cumulus cells (CCs) (experiment 2) as biomarkers of oocyte quality after individually culturing them (one oocyte or embryo/drop). In experiment 1, individually matured oocytes were measured and classified into small, intermediate, and large oocytes after a cluster analysis, based on total diameter (with zona pellucida, ZP), oocyte diameter (without ZP), and ZP thickness. These oocytes were individually fertilized in vitro and cultured. The embryo development was evaluated up to the blastocyst stage. According to the total diameter, oocyte diameter, and ZP thickness, the blastocyst rate decreased in the small oocytes group (3.1 ± 3.1, 14.1 ± 9.4, and 26.7 ± 3.9, respectively) compared to the intermediate (29.4 ± 5.2, 30.5 ± 10.1, and 28.6 ± 9.6, respectively) and large oocytes groups (54.2 ± 13.5, 44.4 ± 3.9, and 67.6 ± 12.4, respectively). In addition, the probability of reaching the blastocyst stage was positively related to the total diameter (p < 0.001), oocyte diameter (p < 0.05), and ZP thickness (p < 0.001). Furthermore, the relative gene expression of BAX, BCL2, GDF9, and GJA1 was lower in oocytes classified as large. In experiment 2, the mRNA transcript relative abundance pattern of genes in CCs was evaluated according to oocyte total diameter and developmental stage reached. CCs from oocytes classified as large and oocytes capable of developing to the blastocyst stage had a lower relative expression of BAX, STAR, and PTGS2, while a higher expression of HAS2 and SDC2 transcript was observed for those oocytes. In conclusion, oocyte morphometric parameters and gene expression analysis in oocytes and CCs provide methods for the identification of the most competent oocytes for assisted reproductive technologies in sheep.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Maside
- SaBio IREC (CSIC-UCLM-JCCM), ETSIAM, Campus Universitario, s/n, 02071 Albacete, Spain; (I.S.-A.); (D.M.-C.); (J.J.G.); (A.J.S.)
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, 17003 Girona, Spain
- Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, 17003 Girona, Spain
- Correspondence:
| | - Irene Sánchez-Ajofrín
- SaBio IREC (CSIC-UCLM-JCCM), ETSIAM, Campus Universitario, s/n, 02071 Albacete, Spain; (I.S.-A.); (D.M.-C.); (J.J.G.); (A.J.S.)
| | - Daniela Medina-Chávez
- SaBio IREC (CSIC-UCLM-JCCM), ETSIAM, Campus Universitario, s/n, 02071 Albacete, Spain; (I.S.-A.); (D.M.-C.); (J.J.G.); (A.J.S.)
| | | | - José Julián Garde
- SaBio IREC (CSIC-UCLM-JCCM), ETSIAM, Campus Universitario, s/n, 02071 Albacete, Spain; (I.S.-A.); (D.M.-C.); (J.J.G.); (A.J.S.)
| | - Ana Josefa Soler
- SaBio IREC (CSIC-UCLM-JCCM), ETSIAM, Campus Universitario, s/n, 02071 Albacete, Spain; (I.S.-A.); (D.M.-C.); (J.J.G.); (A.J.S.)
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24
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Xiao Y, Yuan B, Hu W, Qi J, Jiang H, Sun B, Zhang J, Liang S. Tributyltin Oxide Exposure During in vitro Maturation Disrupts Oocyte Maturation and Subsequent Embryonic Developmental Competence in Pigs. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:683448. [PMID: 34262900 PMCID: PMC8273238 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.683448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Tributyltin oxide (TBTO), an organotin compound, has been demonstrated to have toxic effects on several cell types. Previous research has shown that TBTO impairs mouse denuded oocyte maturation. However, limited information is available on the effects of TBTO exposure on livestock reproductive systems, especially on porcine oocytes in the presence of dense cumulus cells. In the present research, we evaluated the effects of TBTO exposure on porcine oocyte maturation and the possible underlying mechanisms. Porcine cumulus-oocyte complexes were cultured in maturation medium with or without TBTO for 42 h. We found that TBTO exposure during oocyte maturation prevented polar body extrusion, inhibited cumulus expansion and impaired subsequent blastocyst formation after parthenogenetic activation. Further analysis revealed that TBTO exposure not only induced intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation but also caused a loss of mitochondrial membrane potential and reduced intracellular ATP generation. In addition, TBTO exposure impaired porcine oocyte quality by disrupting cellular iron homeostasis. Taken together, these results demonstrate that TBTO exposure impairs the porcine oocyte maturation process by inducing intracellular ROS accumulation, causing mitochondrial dysfunction, and disrupting cellular iron homeostasis, thus decreasing the quality and impairing the subsequent embryonic developmental competence of porcine oocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Xiao
- Department of Animal Sciences, College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Bao Yuan
- Department of Animal Sciences, College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Weiyi Hu
- Department of Animal Sciences, College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Jiajia Qi
- Department of Animal Sciences, College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Hao Jiang
- Department of Animal Sciences, College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Boxing Sun
- Department of Animal Sciences, College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Jiabao Zhang
- Department of Animal Sciences, College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Shuang Liang
- Department of Animal Sciences, College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
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25
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Azizollahi S, Bagheri M, Haghollahi F, Mohammadi SM, Hossein Rashidi B. Clinical and Molecular Effects of GnRH Agonist and Antagonist on The Cumulus Cells in The In Vitro Fertilization Cycle. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF FERTILITY & STERILITY 2021; 15:202-209. [PMID: 34155867 PMCID: PMC8233926 DOI: 10.22074/ijfs.2020.136161.1012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2020] [Accepted: 12/05/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Background: Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) analogues have been extensively utilized in the ovarian stimulation
cycle for suppression of endogenous rapid enhancement of luteinizing hormone (LH surge).
Exclusive properties and functional mechanisms of GnRH analogues in in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycles are clearly described. This study was performed to evaluate clinical and molecular impacts of the GnRH agonist and antagonist protocols in IVF cycles.
For This purpose, gene expression of cumulus cells (CCs) as well as clinical and embryological parameters were evaluated and compared between two groups (GnRH agonistand antagonist) during the IVF cycle.
Materials and Methods: Twenty-one infertile individuals were enrolled in this study. Subjects were
selected from two groups of GnRH agonist(n=10) treated patients and GnRH
antagonist (n=11) treated individuals. The defined clinical embryological parameters were compared between the
two groups. Expression of BAX, BCL-2, SURVIVIN, ALCAM, and VCAN genes were assessed in the CCs of the
participants using the real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique. Results: The mean number of cumulus oocyte complex (COC), percentage of metaphase II (MII) oocytes, grade A
embryo and clinical parameters did not show noticeable differences between the two groups. BAX gene expression in
the CCs of the group treated with GnRH agonist was remarkably higher than those received GnRH antagonist treatment (P<0.001). The mRNA expression of BCL-2 and ALCM genes were considerably greater in the CCs of patients
who underwent antagonist protocol in comparison to the group that received agonist protocol (P<0.001). Conclusion: Despite no considerable difference in the oocyte quality, embryo development, and clinical outcomes between the group treated with GnRH agonist and the one treated with antagonist protocol, the GnRH antagonist protocol
was slightly more favorable. However, further clinical studies using molecular assessments are required to elucidate
this controversial subject.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saeid Azizollahi
- Vali-e-Asr Reproductive Health Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Cell Therapy and Regenerative Medicine Comprehensive Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Maryam Bagheri
- Vali-e-Asr Reproductive Health Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fedyeh Haghollahi
- Vali-e-Asr Reproductive Health Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyyede Momeneh Mohammadi
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran
| | - Batool Hossein Rashidi
- Vali-e-Asr Reproductive Health Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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26
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Bódis J, Sulyok E, Várnagy Á, Prémusz V, Gödöny K, Makai A, Szenczi Á, Varjas T. Expression of mRNAs for pro-and anti-apoptotic factors in granulosa cells and follicular fluid of women undergoing in vitro fertilization. A pilot study. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2021; 21:399. [PMID: 34030662 PMCID: PMC8142473 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-021-03834-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background This observational clinical study evaluated the expression levels and predictive values of some apoptosis-related genes in granulosa cells (GCs) and follicular fluid (FF) of women undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF). Methods GCs and FF were obtained at oocyte retrieval from 31 consecutive patients with heterogeneous infertility diagnosis (age: 34.3 ± 5.8 years, body mass index: 24.02 ± 3.12 kg/m2, duration of infertility: 4.2 ± 2.1 years). mRNA expression of pro-apoptotic (BAX, CASP3, CASP8) and anti-apoptotic (BCL2, AMH, AMHR, FSHR, LHR, CYP19A1) factors was determined by quantitative RT-PCR using ROCHE LightCycler 480. Results No significant difference in GC or FF mRNA expression of pro- and anti-apoptotic factors could be demonstrated between IVF patients with (9 patients) or without (22 patients) clinical pregnancy. Each transcript investigated was detected in FF, but their levels were markedly reduced and independent of those in GCs. The number of retrieved oocytes was positively associated with GC AMHR (r = 0.393, p = 0.029), but the day of embryo transfer was negatively associated with GC LHR (r = − 0.414, p = 0.020) and GC FSHR transcripts (r = − 0.535, p = 0.002). When pregnancy positive group was analysed separately the impact of apoptosis- related gene expressions on some selected measures of IVF success could be observed. Strong positive relationship was found between gene expression levels of pro- and anti-apoptotic factors in GCs. Conclusion Our study provides only marginal evidences for the apoptosis dependence of IVF outcome and suggests that the apoptosis process induces adaptive increases of the anti-apoptotic gene expression to attenuate apoptosis and to protect cell survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- József Bódis
- ELKH-PTE Human Reproduction Scientific Research Group, University of Pécs, Édesanyák u. 17., Pécs, H-7624, Hungary
| | - Endre Sulyok
- Doctoral School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pécs, Vörösmarty u. 4., Pécs, H-7621, Hungary.
| | - Ákos Várnagy
- ELKH-PTE Human Reproduction Scientific Research Group, University of Pécs, Édesanyák u. 17., Pécs, H-7624, Hungary.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical School, University of Pécs, Édesanyák u. 17., Pécs, H-7624, Hungary
| | - Viktória Prémusz
- ELKH-PTE Human Reproduction Scientific Research Group, University of Pécs, Édesanyák u. 17., Pécs, H-7624, Hungary.,Doctoral School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pécs, Vörösmarty u. 4., Pécs, H-7621, Hungary
| | - Krisztina Gödöny
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical School, University of Pécs, Édesanyák u. 17., Pécs, H-7624, Hungary
| | - Alexandra Makai
- Doctoral School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pécs, Vörösmarty u. 4., Pécs, H-7621, Hungary
| | - Ágnes Szenczi
- Department of Public Health Medicine, Medical School, University of Pécs, Szigeti u. 12., Pécs, H-7621, Hungary
| | - Timea Varjas
- Department of Public Health Medicine, Medical School, University of Pécs, Szigeti u. 12., Pécs, H-7621, Hungary
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27
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Fu J, Liu Y, Wang C, Zhang H, Yu B, Wang Y, Zhu H. Persistent follicular granulosa cell senescence and apoptosis induced by methotrexate leading to oocyte dysfunction and aberrant embryo development. Clin Transl Sci 2021; 14:2043-2054. [PMID: 33982403 PMCID: PMC8504813 DOI: 10.1111/cts.13068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2020] [Revised: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 04/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Evidence from clinical cases indicates an association between the low success rate of in vitro fertilization (IVF) and ovarian injury due to previous methotrexate (MTX) administration. Therefore, it is necessary to develop and propose reasonable clinical drug guidelines to improve the quality of oocytes and the development of embryos before pregnancy. In this study, we established a mouse model with previous MTX exposure to validate the effects of MTX on reproductive function in female mice. We observed that MTX administration could result in a decrease in the success rate of fertilization and an aberrant embryonic development in both natural fertilization and IVF, even after completion of five to six ovulation cycles after MTX withdrawal. Further research revealed senescence and apoptosis of follicular granulosa cells (GCs), accompanied by arrested follicle development and aberrant estradiol and anti‐Mullerian hormone levels. Supportive evidence indicated that MTX administration induced senescence and apoptosis of human GCs in vitro, and the effects were consistent with the high levels of p21, p53, and oxidative stress. We further demonstrated that folic acid (FA) could improve oocyte function and embryonic development in vivo and in vitro by protecting GCs against apoptosis and senescence. Based on these findings, we propose the implementation of extended intervals between MTX exposure and conception or IVF and recommend FA as a special dietary supplement during this interval period; however, prospective inquiry in humans is necessary to further understand the relationship between MTX and FA recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingbo Fu
- Department of Cell BiologyNaval Medical University (Second Military Medical University)ShanghaiChina
| | - Yang Liu
- Department of Cell BiologyNaval Medical University (Second Military Medical University)ShanghaiChina
| | - Chen Wang
- Department of Cell BiologyNaval Medical University (Second Military Medical University)ShanghaiChina
| | - Hongxia Zhang
- Department of Cell BiologyNaval Medical University (Second Military Medical University)ShanghaiChina
| | - Bin Yu
- Renji HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Ye Wang
- Department of Cell BiologyNaval Medical University (Second Military Medical University)ShanghaiChina
- Department of UrologyChinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) General HospitalPLA Medical SchoolBeijingChina
- Centre for Reproductive MedicineChanghai HospitalNaval Medical University (Second Military Medical University)ShanghaiChina
| | - Haiying Zhu
- Department of Cell BiologyNaval Medical University (Second Military Medical University)ShanghaiChina
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Tosun SA, Ozkaya E, Aru B, Yanikkaya Demirel G, Cogendez E, Sipahi M. Does LH supplementation in poor responders affect granulosa cells apoptosis rate in ART? A prospective randomised controlled trial. J OBSTET GYNAECOL 2021; 42:133-138. [PMID: 33908815 DOI: 10.1080/01443615.2021.1873921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
The aim was to compare granulosa cell's (GCs) apoptosis rate with (group A) or without (group B) luteinising hormone (LH) supplementation in poor ovarian responders (PORs) during controlled ovarian stimulation (COS). After oocyte retrieval, the follicular fluid was analysed by cytoflowmetry. Primary outcomes were GCs apoptosis rate in terms of viability, early apoptosis, late apoptosis and necrosis. Secondary outcome was clinical pregnancy rate. The viability was 96.7{IQR: 8} and 83.5{IQR: 20} for groups A and B, respectively (p < .001). Late apoptosis rates were significantly lower in group A (median 1.5, {IQR: 3.1}) than group B (median 9.5, {IQR: 20.6}) (p < .001). Median early apoptosis rates were 1.4 {IQR: 2.9} and 5.2 {IQR: 6.5} for group A and B respectively (p = .04). No significant difference was observed in the clinical pregnancy rate. Although LH seems necessary in PORs to decrease late granulosa apoptosis rates, this does not improve clinical pregnancy rates.IMPACT STATEMENTWhat is already known on this subject? LH supplementation during COS has long been an issue in PORs to overcome the rFSH responsiveness due to the LH polymorphism. LH receptors have also been on GCs and their expression increases in preovulatory follicles. GCs apoptosis rates may show the oocyte quality and reproductive potential of oocyte retrieved and the requirement for LH supplementation.What do the results of this study add? The present study shows that LH supplementation during COS for PORs promotes the GC viability and reduces early/late apoptosis rates. Similarly, the number of MII oocytes was significantly higher in the LH regimen group. However, there was no significant difference in terms of clinical pregnancy rates.What are the implications of these findings for clinical practice and/or further research? The oocyte quality parameters such as higher GC viability and lower GC early/late apoptosis rates verify the LH supplementation in PORs during COS. However, the limited size of this study requires further multi-centre research in a larger cohort of patients. Results obtained with a sensitive and validated method will help clinicians to make better decisions in patient care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebnem Alanya Tosun
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Giresun University, Giresun, Turkey
| | - Enis Ozkaya
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Health Sciences University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Basak Aru
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Yeditepe University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | | | - Ebru Cogendez
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Health Sciences University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Mehmet Sipahi
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Giresun University, Giresun, Turkey
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29
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Wu FJ, Wang YW, Luo CW. Human bone morphogenetic protein 8A promotes expansion and prevents apoptosis of cumulus cells in vitro. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2021; 522:111121. [PMID: 33338549 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2020.111121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2020] [Revised: 11/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Cumulus expansion is essential for ovulation and oocyte maturation in mammals. Previous studies suggest that this process requires certain cumulus expansion enabling factors, induced by LH surge, that activate SMAD signaling locally. However, their identities remain uncertain. Using a superovulated rat model, we showed that Bmp8 transcripts were abundant in cumulus cell-oocyte complexes (COCs) and their levels can be further induced during ovulation. By analyzing human COC-related transcriptomic datasets, BMP8 transcripts in cumulus cells were also found to be significantly elevated along with the maturation status and developmental competence of enclosed oocytes. In cultured rat COCs, treatment with recombinant BMP8A protein activated both SMAD1/5/8 and SMAD2/3 pathways; the resulting SMAD2/3 signaling induced COC expansion as well as the expression of COC expansion-related genes, whereas the resulting SMAD2/3 and SMAD1/5/8 activations were both required for protecting expanded cumulus cells from apoptosis. Taken together, our data demonstrated that addition of BMP8 protein in the in vitro rat COC cultures not only promotes cumulus expansion but also sustains survival of expanded cumulus cells via different SMAD downstreams. With these capabilities, BMP8 may have clinical applications to ameliorate the fertilizability and subsequent developmental competence of the enclosed oocytes when doing in vitro COC maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang-Ju Wu
- Department of Life Sciences and Institute of Genome Sciences, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, 112, Taiwan
| | - Ying-Wen Wang
- Department of Life Sciences and Institute of Genome Sciences, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, 112, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Wei Luo
- Department of Life Sciences and Institute of Genome Sciences, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, 112, Taiwan.
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30
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Chen YC, Li JY, Li CJ, Tsui KH, Wang PH, Wen ZH, Lin LT. Luteal Phase Ovarian Stimulation versus Follicular Phase Ovarian Stimulation results in different Human Cumulus cell genes expression: A pilot study. Int J Med Sci 2021; 18:1600-1608. [PMID: 33746576 PMCID: PMC7976567 DOI: 10.7150/ijms.55955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2020] [Accepted: 01/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Luteal-phase ovarian stimulation (LPOS) is an alternative in vitro fertilization (IVF) protocol. However, limited data showed the genes expression of cumulus cells (CCs) in LPOS. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate CC genes expression between LPOS and follicular-phase ovarian stimulation (FPOS) in poor ovarian responders (PORs) undergoing IVF cycles. Methods: This was a prospective non-randomized trial (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03238833). A total of 36 PORs who met the Bologna criteria and underwent IVF cycles were enrolled. Fifteen PORs were allocated to the LPOS group, and 21 PORs were allocated to the FPOS group. The levels of CC genes involved in inflammation (CXCL1, CXCL3, TNF, PTGES), oxidative phosphorylation (NDUFB7, NDUFA4L2, SLC25A27), apoptosis (DAPK3, BCL6B) and metabolism (PCK1, LDHC) were analyzed using real-time quantitative PCR and compared between the two groups. Results: The number of retrieved oocytes, metaphase II oocytes, fertilized oocytes, day-3 embryos and top-quality day-3 embryos, clinical pregnancy rates and live birth rates were similar between the two groups except for significantly high progesterone levels in the LPOS group. The mRNA expression levels of CXCL1 (0.51 vs 1.00, p < 0.001) and PTGES (0.30 vs 1.00, p < 0.01) were significantly lower in the LPOS group than in the FPOS group. The LPOS group had significantly lower mRNA expression of NDUFB7 (0.12 vs 1.00, p < 0.001) and NDUFA4L2 (0.33 vs 1.00, p < 0.01) than the FPOS group. DAPK3 (3.81 vs 1.00, p < 0.05) and BCL6B (2.59 vs 1.00, p < 0.01) mRNA expression was significantly higher in the LPOS group than in the FPOS group. Increased expression of PCK1 (3.13 vs. 1.00, p < 0.001) and decreased expression of LDHC (0.12 vs. 1.00, p < 0.001) were observed in the LPOS group compared to the FPOS group. Conclusions: Our data revealed different CC genes expression involving in inflammation, oxidative phosphorylation, apoptosis and metabolism between LPOS and FPOS in PORs. However, the results are non-conclusive; further large-scale randomized controlled trials are needed to validate the results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Chen Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
| | - Ju-Yueh Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Jung Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
| | - Kuan-Hao Tsui
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Yang-Ming University School of Medicine, Taipei City, Taiwan.,Institute of BioPharmaceutical Sciences, National Sun Yat‑sen University, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
| | - Peng-Hui Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Yang-Ming University School of Medicine, Taipei City, Taiwan.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei City, Taiwan.,Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung City, Taiwan
| | - Zhi-Hong Wen
- Department of Marine Biotechnology and Resources, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
| | - Li-Te Lin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Yang-Ming University School of Medicine, Taipei City, Taiwan.,Institute of BioPharmaceutical Sciences, National Sun Yat‑sen University, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
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31
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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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32
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Lorenzo MS, Maruri A, Cruzans PR, Teplitz GM, Tello MF, Lombardo DM. The antioxidant dimethylthiourea improves IVF efficiency and decreases cumulus cell apoptosis in pigs. Reprod Fertil Dev 2020; 31:1607-1615. [PMID: 31242959 DOI: 10.1071/rd19020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2018] [Accepted: 05/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Abattoir ovaries, which are the main source of oocytes for reproductive biotechnologies, arrive at the laboratory under ischaemic conditions. Reoxygenation generates reactive oxygen species (ROS) in ischaemic tissues, which could affect oocyte quality. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of supplementation of media with dimethylthiourea (DMTU) during the collection and washing of cumulus-oocyte complexes (COC) on ROS levels, COC apoptosis and oocyte nuclear and cytoplasmic maturation. Thus, the collection (TCM-199) and washing (TCM-199 with 10% porcine follicular fluid, sodium pyruvate and antibiotics) media were supplemented with 1 and 10mM DMTU. In the control group, the media were not supplemented with DMTU. Intracellular ROS levels decreased significantly in the DMTU-treated groups (P<0.05). Although no effects on rate of nuclear maturation were observed, DMTU significantly increased sperm penetration rates without increasing polyspermy (P<0.05). The addition of 10mM DMTU to the collection and washing media enhanced IVF efficiency. DMTU did not modify the early or late apoptosis of oocytes. Both concentrations of DMTU significantly increased viability and decreased the apoptosis of cumulus cells (P<0.05). These results suggest that the addition of 1 or 10mM of DMTU to the media during the collection and washing of porcine COCs is useful for decreasing cumulus apoptosis mediated by ROS and for optimising the IVF of porcine oocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- M S Lorenzo
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Godoy Cruz 2290 C1425TQB, Buenos Aires, Argentina; and Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Instituto de Investigación y Tecnología en Reproducción Animal, Cátedra de Histología y Embriología. Chorroarín 280 C1427CWO, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - A Maruri
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Instituto de Investigación y Tecnología en Reproducción Animal, Cátedra de Histología y Embriología. Chorroarín 280 C1427CWO, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - P R Cruzans
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Godoy Cruz 2290 C1425TQB, Buenos Aires, Argentina; and Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Instituto de Investigación y Tecnología en Reproducción Animal, Cátedra de Histología y Embriología. Chorroarín 280 C1427CWO, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - G M Teplitz
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Godoy Cruz 2290 C1425TQB, Buenos Aires, Argentina; and Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Instituto de Investigación y Tecnología en Reproducción Animal, Cátedra de Histología y Embriología. Chorroarín 280 C1427CWO, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - M F Tello
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Instituto de Investigación y Tecnología en Reproducción Animal, Cátedra de Histología y Embriología. Chorroarín 280 C1427CWO, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - D M Lombardo
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Instituto de Investigación y Tecnología en Reproducción Animal, Cátedra de Histología y Embriología. Chorroarín 280 C1427CWO, Buenos Aires, Argentina; and Corresponding author.
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33
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Wang Y, Chen CZ, Fu XH, Liu JB, Peng YX, Wang YJ, Han DX, Zhang Z, Yuan B, Gao Y, Jiang H, Zhang JB. CPEB3 regulates the proliferation and apoptosis of bovine cumulus cells. Anim Sci J 2020; 91:e13416. [PMID: 32648330 DOI: 10.1111/asj.13416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2020] [Revised: 05/11/2020] [Accepted: 05/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Cytoplasmic polyadenylation element-binding protein 3 (CPEB3) is a member of the Cytoplasmic polyadenylation element-binding family, which has been found to regulate the translation of dormant and masked mRNA in Xenopus oocytes and plays potential roles in regulating biological functions in cells and tissues. However, its role in cumulus cells is not clear. In this study, the mRNA expression of CPEB3 in bovine cumulus cells was inhibited with small interfering RNA. Cell cycle progression, proliferation, and apoptosis were measured after inhibition of CPEB3. Subsequently, changes in intracellular Reactive oxygen species content, mitochondrial membrane potential and expansion-related gene expression were examined. The results showed that after CPEB3 inhibition, cumulus cells had an abnormal cell cycle, the numbers of cells in the S and G2/M phases were significantly increased, cell proliferation was increased and apoptosis rates were decreased. These effects were likely due CPEB3 inhibition-induced decreases in intracellular Reactive oxygen species levels; increases in mitochondrial membrane potential; decreases in apoptosis; downregulation of CCNA, CCND, CCNE, CDK2, CDK4, CDK6, p21, and p27 mRNA expression; and upregulation of CCNB, CDK1, HAS2, PTGS2, PTX3, and CEBPB mRNA expression. Therefore, CPEB3 plays potential roles in regulating the biological and physiological functions of bovine cumulus cell.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Wang
- Department of Laboratory Animals, Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Model, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Cheng-Zhen Chen
- Department of Laboratory Animals, Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Model, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Xu-Huang Fu
- Department of Laboratory Animals, Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Model, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Jian-Bo Liu
- Department of Laboratory Animals, Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Model, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Yan-Xia Peng
- Department of Laboratory Animals, Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Model, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Yi-Jie Wang
- Department of Laboratory Animals, Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Model, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Dong-Xu Han
- Department of Laboratory Animals, Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Model, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Zhe Zhang
- Department of Laboratory Animals, Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Model, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Bao Yuan
- Department of Laboratory Animals, Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Model, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Yan Gao
- Department of Laboratory Animals, Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Model, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Hao Jiang
- Department of Laboratory Animals, Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Model, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Jia-Bao Zhang
- Department of Laboratory Animals, Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Model, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
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Teplitz GM, Lorenzo MS, Maruri A, Cruzans PR, Carou MC, Lombardo DM. Coculture of porcine cumulus–oocyte complexes with porcine luteal cells during IVM: effect on oocyte maturation and embryo development. Reprod Fertil Dev 2020; 32:1250-1259. [DOI: 10.1071/rd20117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2020] [Accepted: 09/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Coculture with somatic cells is an alternative to improve suboptimal invitro culture conditions. In pigs, IVF is related to poor male pronuclear formation and high rates of polyspermy. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of a coculture system with porcine luteal cells (PLCs) on the IVM of porcine cumulus–oocyte complexes (COCs). Abattoir-derived ovaries were used to obtain PLCs and COCs. COCs were matured invitro in TCM-199 with or without the addition of human menopausal gonadotrophin (hMG; C+hMG and C-hMG respectively), in coculture with PLCs from passage 1 (PLC-1) and in PLC-1 conditioned medium (CM). In the coculture system, nuclear maturation rates were significantly higher than in the C-hMG and CM groups, but similar to rates in the C+hMG group. In cumulus cells, PLC-1 coculture decreased viability, early apoptosis and necrosis, and increased late apoptosis compared with C+hMG. PLC-1 coculture also decreased reactive oxygen species levels in cumulus cells. After IVF, monospermic penetration and IVF efficiency increased in the PLC-1 group compared with the C+hMG group. After invitro culture, higher blastocysts rates were observed in the PLC-1 group. This is the first report of a coculture system of COCs with PLCs. Our model could be an alternative for the conventional maturation medium plus gonadotrophins because of its lower rates of polyspermic penetration and higher blastocysts rates, key issues in porcine invitro embryo production.
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Faramarzi A, Khalili MA, Jahromi MG. Is there any correlation between apoptotic genes expression in cumulus cells with embryo morphokinetics? Mol Biol Rep 2019; 46:3663-3670. [PMID: 31154602 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-019-04781-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2019] [Accepted: 03/21/2019] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
The aim was to assess the correlation between apoptotic genes of cumulus cells (CCs) with embryo morphokinetics as non invasive methods for embryo selection. Evaluation of cleavage activity among in vitro-fertilized embryos was dependent on determining not only expression profiles of pro- and anti-apoptotic genes in CCs surrounding ovulated oocytes but also morphokinetic parameters such as time of second PB extrusion (tPB2), pronuclei appearance (tPN), pronuclei fading (tPNf), formation of two to eight cells (t2-t8) and cleavage pattern [uneven at two cells stage, cell fusion (Fu) and trichomonas mitoses (TM)]. A total of 269 embryos from 90 intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) cycles were assessed. The data showed that t2 was associated with CCs expression of Bax, Caspase3 Bcl2 and bax/bcl2 (p = 0.000, p = 0.000, p = 0.04, p = 0.00, respectively). Uneven blastomeres embryo associated with Bax and Caspase3 (p = 0.007, p = 0.000 respectively) as well as Fu and TM embryo significantly correlated to CCs expression of Bax, Caspase3 Bcl2 and bax/bcl2 (p = 0.000, p = 0.000, p = 0.00, p = 0.00, respectively) (p = 0.006, p = 0.000, p = 0.009, p = 0.0340, respectively). Embryo morphokinetics and cleavage pattern associated with CCs apoptotic gene expression. It seems that embryo selection by morphokinetics assessment using TLM with conjunction in CCs gene expression can improve ART outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Azita Faramarzi
- Fertility and Infertility Research Center, Health Technology Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran.,Research and Clinical Center for Infertility, Yazd Reproductive Sciences Institute, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Mohammad Ali Khalili
- Research and Clinical Center for Infertility, Yazd Reproductive Sciences Institute, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran. .,Department of Reproductive Biology, School of Medicine, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran.
| | - Masoumeh Golestan Jahromi
- Research and Clinical Center for Infertility, Yazd Reproductive Sciences Institute, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran.,Central Research Laboratory, Jahrom University of Medical Sciences, Jahrom, Iran
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Fan Y, Chang Y, Wei L, Chen J, Li J, Goldsmith S, Silber S, Liang X. Apoptosis of mural granulosa cells is increased in women with diminished ovarian reserve. J Assist Reprod Genet 2019; 36:1225-1235. [PMID: 30980221 PMCID: PMC6602993 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-019-01446-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2019] [Accepted: 03/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To evaluate the relationship between apoptosis of granulosa cells in women with normal ovarian reserve versus diminished ovarian reserve, and relate that to follicular fluid hormones, and to clinical outcomes. Methods A prospective cohort study was initiated between October 2015 and June 2016 involving a total of 164 women undergoing IVF/ICSI cycles at a single IVF center. Mural and cumulus granulosa cells, and follicularfluid were collected during oocyte retrieval. Annexin V-FITC/PI apoptosis staining and flow cytometryanalysis were performed to evaluate apoptosis rate of mural granulosa cells and cumulus cells. Follicularfluid hormones were measured by ECLIA. Laboratory and clinical outcomes were analyzed. Results In mural granulosa cells, early, late and total apoptosis rates were significantly increased in women with diminished ovarian reserve when compare to women with normal ovarian reserve, along with lower AMHand progesterone levels (but higher estradiol levels) in follicular fluid. Early apoptosis rate of cumulus cellswas significantly higher in the non-pregnant group. The apoptosis rate of mural cells was negativelycorrelated with parameters related to ovarian response, oocyte yield, MII egg number, 2pn cleavagenumber, D3 good embryos number, blastocyst formation rate and frozen embryos number. A positivecorrelation was found between mural granulosa cell apoptosis and age. Conclusion A significantly higher apoptosis rate of mural granulosa cells was correlated with worse ovarian response, with fewer egg and embryo numbers in IVF/ICSI, as well as with age. Early apoptosis rate of cumulus cellsmight also have influence on clinical pregnancy. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1007/s10815-019-01446-5) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuting Fan
- Reproductive Medical Center, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, 17th Shou-gou-ling Rd, Guangzhou, 510655, China
| | - Yajie Chang
- Reproductive Medical Center, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, 17th Shou-gou-ling Rd, Guangzhou, 510655, China
| | - Lina Wei
- Reproductive Medical Center, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, 17th Shou-gou-ling Rd, Guangzhou, 510655, China
| | - Jianhui Chen
- Reproductive Medical Center, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, 17th Shou-gou-ling Rd, Guangzhou, 510655, China
| | - Jingjie Li
- Reproductive Medical Center, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, 17th Shou-gou-ling Rd, Guangzhou, 510655, China
| | - Sierra Goldsmith
- Infertility Center of St. Louis, 224 S. Woods Mill Road Suite 730, St. Louis, MO, 63017, USA
| | - Sherman Silber
- Infertility Center of St. Louis, 224 S. Woods Mill Road Suite 730, St. Louis, MO, 63017, USA
| | - Xiaoyan Liang
- Reproductive Medical Center, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, 17th Shou-gou-ling Rd, Guangzhou, 510655, China.
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Li FP, Zhou JL, Guo AW, Liu Y, Zhang F, Xu BH, Liu R, Wang YL, Chen MH, Lin YH, He SW, Liao BQ, Fu XP, Wang HL. Di(n-butyl) phthalate exposure impairs meiotic competence and development of mouse oocyte. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2019; 246:597-607. [PMID: 30605815 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2018.12.077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2018] [Revised: 12/20/2018] [Accepted: 12/23/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Di(n-butyl) phthalate (DBP) is extensively used in industrial applications as plasticizer and stabilizer and its presence in the environment may present health risks for human. Previous studies have demonstrated its mutagenic, teratogenic, and carcinogenic ability. However, its effect on mammalian oocyte maturation remains unknown. In this study, we examined the effect of DBP on oocyte maturation both in vitro and in vivo. Our results showed that DBP could significantly reduce mice oocyte germinal vesicle breakdown (GVBD) and polar body extrusion (PBE) rates. In addition, oocyte cytoskeleton was damaged and cortical granule-free domains (CGFDs) were also disrupted. Finally, DBP induced early apoptosis of oocyte and granulosa cells (GCs). Collectively, these data demonstrate that DBP could reduce meiosis competence and mouse oocyte development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei-Ping Li
- Organ Transplantation Institute, Medical College, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China; College of Life Sciences, Southwest Forestry University, Kunming, Yunnan, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Organ and Tissue Regeneration, Xiamen, Fujian, China; Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, Sichuan Key Laboratory of Conservation Biology for Endangered Wildlife, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Jie-Long Zhou
- College of Life Sciences, Southwest Forestry University, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Ai-Wei Guo
- College of Life Sciences, Southwest Forestry University, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Yu Liu
- Organ Transplantation Institute, Medical College, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China; Medical College, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Fei Zhang
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Organ and Tissue Regeneration, Xiamen, Fujian, China; Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Zhongshan Hospital, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Bai-Hui Xu
- Organ Transplantation Institute, Medical College, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Organ and Tissue Regeneration, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Rui Liu
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Organ and Tissue Regeneration, Xiamen, Fujian, China; Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Zhongshan Hospital, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Ya-Long Wang
- Organ Transplantation Institute, Medical College, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Organ and Tissue Regeneration, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Ming-Huang Chen
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Organ and Tissue Regeneration, Xiamen, Fujian, China; Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Zhongshan Hospital, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Yan-Hong Lin
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Organ and Tissue Regeneration, Xiamen, Fujian, China; Department of Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
| | - Shu-Wen He
- Organ Transplantation Institute, Medical College, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Organ and Tissue Regeneration, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Bao-Qiong Liao
- Organ Transplantation Institute, Medical College, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Organ and Tissue Regeneration, Xiamen, Fujian, China; Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Dongfang Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
| | - Xian-Pei Fu
- Organ Transplantation Institute, Medical College, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Organ and Tissue Regeneration, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Hai-Long Wang
- Organ Transplantation Institute, Medical College, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Organ and Tissue Regeneration, Xiamen, Fujian, China.
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Platz TT, Siersbæk N, Østerdal LP. Ethically Acceptable Compensation for Living Donations of Organs, Tissues, and Cells: An Unexploited Potential? APPLIED HEALTH ECONOMICS AND HEALTH POLICY 2019; 17:1-14. [PMID: 30143995 DOI: 10.1007/s40258-018-0421-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
The number of living donations of human organs, tissues, and cells falls far short of the need. Market-like arrangements to increase donation rates have been proposed, but they are broadly considered unacceptable due to ethical concerns and are therefore not policy relevant in most countries. The purpose of this paper is to explore a different approach to increasing living donations, namely through the use of ethically acceptable compensation of donors. We review the compensation practices in Europe and find a lack of reimbursement of incurred costs and lack of compensation for non-monetary losses, which create disincentives for donation. We draw on a well-known philosophical theory to explain why donors are rarely fully compensated and why many existing proposals to raise donation rates are seen as controversial or even unethical. We present and discuss three categories of compensation with the potential to increase donation rates in an ethically acceptable way.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trine Tornøe Platz
- Department of Economics, Copenhagen Business School, Porcelænshaven 16A, 2000, Frederiksberg, Denmark.
| | - Nikolaj Siersbæk
- Department of Business and Economics, University of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, 5230, Odense, Denmark
| | - Lars Peter Østerdal
- Department of Economics, Copenhagen Business School, Porcelænshaven 16A, 2000, Frederiksberg, Denmark
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Tabibnejad N, Aflatoonian A, Motamedzadeh L, Soleimani M, Sadeghian-Nodoushan F, Talebi AR. Assessing ICSI outcome by combining non-invasive indicators: Early time-lapse morphokinetics and apoptosis in associated cumulus cells among women with the polycystic ovarian syndrome. Mol Reprod Dev 2018; 85:865-874. [PMID: 29995338 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2018] [Accepted: 07/07/2018] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Cumulus cells features and embryo developmental events can be considered as noninvasive indicators for embryo selection and clinical outcomes. A combination of time-lapse morphokinetic parameters and cumulus cell apoptosis in women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) was evaluated for predicting pregnancy outcome. We assessed a total of 547 embryos from 100 intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) cycles. Time-lapse records were interpreted in time to pronuclear fading (tPNf), time to 2 to 8 cells (t2-t8), direct cleavage, reverse cleavage, and also for the presence of multinucleation. Percentages of apoptosis were identified in 100 associated cumulus cell samples using the TDT-mediated dUTP-biotin nick end-labeling assay. The significant decrease of apoptotic cumulus cells was detected in patients with chemical and clinical pregnancies as well as live birth among patients PCOS and in the tubal infertility group (p > 0.05). Furthermore, significantly higher implantation rate and also significantly lower cases of early pregnancy loss were observed in the group of oocytes with less apoptotic cumulus cells. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that tPNf together with cumulus cell apoptosis were independent prognostic factors of chemical pregnancy, clinical pregnancy rate, and live birth. Time-lapse embryo parameters may not reflect the cumulus cell apoptosis rate. However, the rate of apoptotic cumulus cells is significantly associated with ICSI outcome using Day 3 embryo transfer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nasim Tabibnejad
- Reproductive Biology Department, Research and Clinical Center for Infertility, Yazd Reproductive Sciences Institute, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Abbas Aflatoonian
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Research and Clinical Center for Infertility, Yazd Reproductive Sciences Institute, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Leila Motamedzadeh
- Reproductive Biology Department, Research and Clinical Center for Infertility, Yazd Reproductive Sciences Institute, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Mehrdad Soleimani
- Reproductive Biology Department, Research and Clinical Center for Infertility, Yazd Reproductive Sciences Institute, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Sadeghian-Nodoushan
- Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies Department, Medical Nanotechnology & Tissue Engineering Research Center, Yazd Reproductive Sciences Institute, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Ali Reza Talebi
- Andrology Department, Research and Clinical Center for Infertility, Yazd Reproductive Sciences Institute, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
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Almeida CP, Ferreira MC, Silveira CO, Campos JR, Borges IT, Baeta PG, Silva FH, Reis FM, Del Puerto HL. Clinical correlation of apoptosis in human granulosa cells-A review. Cell Biol Int 2018; 42:1276-1281. [DOI: 10.1002/cbin.11036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2018] [Accepted: 07/29/2018] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Camila P. Almeida
- Department of General Pathology; Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte; Minas Gerais Brazil
| | - Márcia C.F. Ferreira
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology; Faculty of Medicine, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte; Minas Gerais Brazil
| | - Camila O. Silveira
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology; Faculty of Medicine, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte; Minas Gerais Brazil
| | - Jacira R. Campos
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology; Faculty of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto; São Paulo Brazil
| | - Isabella T. Borges
- Department of General Pathology; Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte; Minas Gerais Brazil
| | - Pedro G. Baeta
- Department of General Pathology; Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte; Minas Gerais Brazil
| | - Felipe H.S. Silva
- Department of General Pathology; Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte; Minas Gerais Brazil
| | - Fernando M. Reis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology; Faculty of Medicine, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte; Minas Gerais Brazil
| | - Helen L. Del Puerto
- Department of General Pathology; Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte; Minas Gerais Brazil
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Anderson SH, Glassner MJ, Melnikov A, Friedman G, Orynbayeva Z. Respirometric reserve capacity of cumulus cell mitochondria correlates with oocyte maturity. J Assist Reprod Genet 2018; 35:1821-1830. [PMID: 30094760 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-018-1271-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2018] [Accepted: 07/17/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Oocyte competence is critical in success of assisted reproduction. Metabolic signaling between oocyte and cumulus cells within the cumulus-oocyte complex procure oocyte development. This study evaluated the relationship between respirometric activity of cumulus cells and maturity of corresponding oocytes. METHODS In prospective cohort study, 20 women of age 28-42 undergoing IVF procedure were involved. To evaluate oocyte maturity, the cumulus cells from individual oocytes were assessed flow cytometrically by double labeling of cells with mitochondria specific dyes. The respirometric stress analysis using ATPase inhibitor oligomycin was applied to assess mitochondria metabolic abnormalities. RESULTS The cumulus cells from each of 327 oocytes were analyzed. The respirometric index of cumulus cells (O'R) strongly correlates with maternal ovarian reserve, showing to be higher in patients with higher AMH (p < 0.0017). Cumulus cells from immature oocytes had severe mitochondria deficiency, i.e., low O'R, than those from mature oocytes (p < 0.02). No significant difference in respirometric capacity was found between cumulus cells associated with good vs poor-quality embryos. CONCLUSIONS The oocyte maturity is potentially related to the mitochondria activity of cumulus cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharon H Anderson
- Main Line Fertility Center, 825 Old Lancaster Road, Suite 170, Bryn Mawr, PA, 19101, USA. .,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
| | - Michael J Glassner
- Main Line Fertility Center, 825 Old Lancaster Road, Suite 170, Bryn Mawr, PA, 19101, USA.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | | | - Gary Friedman
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Zulfiya Orynbayeva
- Department of Surgery, Drexel University College of Medicine, 245 N 15th Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19102, USA.
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42
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Regan SLP, Knight PG, Yovich JL, Stanger JD, Leung Y, Arfuso F, Almahbobi G, Dharmarajan A. The effect of ovarian reserve and receptor signalling on granulosa cell apoptosis during human follicle development. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2018; 470:219-227. [PMID: 29113831 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2017.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2017] [Revised: 11/02/2017] [Accepted: 11/03/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The poor oocyte quality in older women has previously been linked to the depletion of the ovarian reserve of primordial follicles and an increase in granulosal apoptosis. Granulosa cells were collected from 198 follicles and individually analysed by flow cytometry. In the young IVF patients, the level of apoptosis was inversely proportional to the expression of bone morphogenetic protein (BMPR1B) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) receptors. Conversely, in the older patients this relationship became dysregulated. In the older patients, at the time of preovulatory maturation, the reduced apoptosis reflects the poor mitogenic growth turnover rate of healthy follicles rather than the death rate in an atretic follicle. Restoring an optimum receptor density and down-regulation of receptors may improve oocyte quality and the pregnancy rate in older women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheena L P Regan
- Stem Cell and Cancer Biology Laboratory, School of Biomedical Sciences, Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Curtin University, Perth, Australia.
| | - Phil G Knight
- School of Biological Sciences, Hopkins Building, University of Reading, Whiteknights, Reading RG6 6UB, UK
| | | | | | - Yee Leung
- Western Australian Gynaecologic Cancer Service, King Edward Memorial Hospital for Women, Perth, Australia
| | - Frank Arfuso
- Stem Cell and Cancer Biology Laboratory, School of Biomedical Sciences, Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Curtin University, Perth, Australia
| | - Ghanim Almahbobi
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Curtin University, Perth, Australia
| | - Arun Dharmarajan
- Stem Cell and Cancer Biology Laboratory, School of Biomedical Sciences, Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Curtin University, Perth, Australia
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43
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Da Broi MG, Giorgi VSI, Wang F, Keefe DL, Albertini D, Navarro PA. Influence of follicular fluid and cumulus cells on oocyte quality: clinical implications. J Assist Reprod Genet 2018; 35:735-751. [PMID: 29497954 PMCID: PMC5984887 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-018-1143-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 157] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2017] [Accepted: 02/19/2018] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
An equilibrium needs to be established by the cellular and acellular components of the ovarian follicle if developmental competence is to be acquired by the oocyte. Both cumulus cells (CCs) and follicular fluid (FF) are critical determinants for oocyte quality. Understanding how CCs and FF influence oocyte quality in the presence of deleterious systemic or pelvic conditions may impact clinical decisions in the course of managing infertility. Given that the functional integrities of FF and CCs are susceptible to concurrent pathological conditions, it is important to understand how pathophysiological factors influence natural fertility and the outcomes of pregnancy arising from the use of assisted reproduction technologies (ARTs). Accordingly, this review discusses the roles of CCs and FF in ensuring oocyte competence and present new insights on pathological conditions that may interfere with oocyte quality by altering the intrafollicular environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. G. Da Broi
- Division of Human Reproduction, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, Avenida Bandeirantes, 3900, Ribeirao Preto, SP CEP: 14049-900 Brazil
| | - V. S. I. Giorgi
- Division of Human Reproduction, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, Avenida Bandeirantes, 3900, Ribeirao Preto, SP CEP: 14049-900 Brazil
| | - F. Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, NYU School of Medicine, 180 Varick Street, New York, NY 10014 USA
| | - D. L. Keefe
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, NYU School of Medicine, 180 Varick Street, New York, NY 10014 USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, New York University, Langone Medical Center, New York, NY 10016 USA
| | - D. Albertini
- The Center for Human Reproduction, New York, NY USA
| | - P. A. Navarro
- Division of Human Reproduction, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, Avenida Bandeirantes, 3900, Ribeirao Preto, SP CEP: 14049-900 Brazil
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Tsui KH, Wang PH, Lin LT, Li CJ. DHEA protects mitochondria against dual modes of apoptosis and necroptosis in human granulosa HO23 cells. Reproduction 2018. [PMID: 28624766 DOI: 10.1530/rep-17-0016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Because ovarian granulosa cells are essential for oocyte maturation and development, we validated human granulosa HO23 cells to evaluate the ability of the DHEA to prevent cell death after starvation. The present study was aimed to investigate whether DHEA could protect against starvation-induced apoptosis and necroptosis in human oocyte granulosa HO23 cells. The starvation was induced by treatment of serum-free (SF) medium for 4 h in vitro Starvation-induced mitochondrial depolarization, cytochrome c release and caspase-3 activation were largely prevented by DHEA in HO23 cells. We found that treatment with DHEA can restore starvation-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and mitochondrial membrane potential imbalance. In addition, treatment of DHEA prevents cell death via upregulation of cytochrome c and downregulation of BAX in mitochondria. Most importantly, DHEA is ameliorated to mitochondrial function mediated through the decrease in mitochondrial ROS, maintained mitochondrial morphology, and enhancing the ability of cell proliferation and ROS scavenging. Our present data strongly indicate that DHEA reduces programmed cell death (apoptosis and necroptosis) in granulosa HO23 cells through multiple interactions with the mitochondrion-dependent programmed cell death pathway. Taken together, our data suggest that the presence of DHEA could be beneficial to protect human oocyte granulosa HO23 cells under in vitro culture conditions during various assisted reproductive technology (ART) programs.Free Chinese abstract: A Chinese translation of this abstract is freely available at http://www.reproduction-online.org/content/154/2/101/suppl/DC1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kuan-Hao Tsui
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyKaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan .,Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyNational Yang-Ming University School of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Pharmacy and Master ProgramCollege of Pharmacy and Health Care, Tajen University, Pingtung County, Taiwan
| | - Peng-Hui Wang
- Department of Biological ScienceNational Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,Division of GynecologyDepartment of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyNational Yang-Ming University Hospital, Ilan, Taiwan.,Immunology CenterTaipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Medical ResearchChina Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Li-Te Lin
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyKaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyNational Yang-Ming University School of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Biological ScienceNational Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Jung Li
- Research Assistant CenterShow Chwan Health Memorial Hospital, Changhua, Taiwan
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Humaidan P, Chin W, Rogoff D, D'Hooghe T, Longobardi S, Hubbard J, Schertz J. Efficacy and safety of follitropin alfa/lutropin alfa in ART: a randomized controlled trial in poor ovarian responders. Hum Reprod 2018; 32:544-555. [PMID: 28137754 PMCID: PMC5850777 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dew360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2016] [Accepted: 01/10/2017] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION How does the efficacy and safety of a fixed-ratio combination of recombinant human FSH plus recombinant human LH (follitropin alfa plus lutropin alfa; r-hFSH/r-hLH) compare with that of r-hFSH monotherapy for controlled ovarian stimulation (COS) in patients with poor ovarian response (POR)? SUMMARY ANSWER The primary and secondary efficacy endpoints were comparable between treatment groups and the safety profile of both treatment regimens was favourable. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Although meta-analyses of clinical trials have suggested some beneficial effect on reproductive outcomes with r-hLH supplementation in patients with POR, the definitions of POR were heterogeneous and limit the comparability across studies. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Phase III, single-blind, active-comparator, randomized, parallel-group clinical trial. Patients were followed for a single ART cycle. A total of 939 women were randomized (1:1) to receive either r-hFSH/r-hLH or r-hFSH. Randomization, stratified by study site and participant age, was conducted via an interactive voice response system. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Women classified as having POR, based on criteria incorporating the ESHRE Bologna criteria, were down-regulated with a long GnRH agonist protocol and following successful down-regulation were randomized (1:1) to COS with r-hFSH/r-hLH or r-hFSH alone. The primary efficacy endpoint was the number of oocytes retrieved following COS. Safety endpoints included the incidence of adverse events, including ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS). Post hoc analyses investigated safety outcomes and correlations between live birth and baseline characteristics (age and number of oocytes retrieved in previous ART treatment cycles or serum anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH)). The significance of the treatment effect was tested by generalized linear models (Poisson regression for counts and logistic regression for binary endpoints) adjusting for age and country. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Of 949 subjects achieving down-regulation, 939 were randomized to r-hFSH/r-hLH (n = 477) or r-hFSH (n = 462) and received treatment. Efficacy assessment: In the intention-to-treat (ITT) population, the mean (SD) number of oocytes retrieved (primary endpoint) was 3.3 (2.71) in the r-hFSH/r-hLH group compared with 3.6 (2.82) in the r-hFSH group (between-group difference not statistically significant). The observed difference between treatment groups (r-hFSH/r-hLH and r-hFSH, respectively) for efficacy outcomes decreased over the course of pregnancy (biochemical pregnancy rate: 17.3% versus 23.9%; clinical pregnancy rate: 14.1% versus 16.8%; ongoing pregnancy rate: 11.0% versus 12.4%; and live birth rate: 10.6% versus 11.7%). An interaction (identified post hoc) between baseline characteristics related to POR and treatment effect was noted for live birth, with r-hFSH/r-hLH associated with a higher live birth rate for patients with moderate or severe POR, whereas r-hFSH was associated with a higher live birth rate for those with mild POR. A post hoc logistic regression analysis indicated that the incidence of total pregnancy outcome failure was lower in the r-hFSH/r-hLH group (6.7%) compared with the r-hFSH group (12.4%) with an odds ratio of 0.52 (95% CI 0.33, 0.82; P = 0.005). Safety assessment: The overall proportion of patients with treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) occurring during or after r-hFSH/r-hLH or r-hFSH use (stimulation or post-stimulation phase) was 19.9% and 26.8%, respectively. There was no consistent pattern of TEAEs associated with either treatment. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Despite using inclusion criteria for POR incorporating the ESHRE Bologna criteria, further investigation is needed to determine the impact of the heterogeneity of POR in the Bologna patient population. The observed correlation between baseline clinical characteristics related to POR and live birth rate, as well as the observed differences between groups regarding total pregnancy outcome failure were from post hoc analyses, and the study was not powered for these endpoints. In addition, the attrition rate for pregnancy outcomes in this trial may not reflect general medical practice. Furthermore, as the patient population was predominantly White these results might not be applicable to other ethnicities. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS In the population of women with POR investigated in this study, although the number of oocytes retrieved was similar following stimulation with either a fixed-ratio combination of r-hFSH/r-hLH or r-hFSH monotherapy, post hoc analyses showed that there was a lower rate of total pregnancy outcome failure in patients receiving r-hFSH/r-hLH, in addition to a higher live birth rate in patients with moderate and severe POR. These findings are clinically relevant and require additional investigation. The benefit:risk balance of treatment with either r-hFSH/r-hLH or r-hFSH remains positive. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This study was funded by Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany. P.H. has received honoraria for lectures and unrestricted research grants from Ferring, Merck KGaA and MSD. D.R. is a former employee of EMD Serono, a business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany. J.S., J.H. and W.C. are employees of EMD Serono Research and Development Institute, a business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany. T.D.’H. and S.L. are employees of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02047227; EudraCT Number: 2013-003817-16. TRIAL REGISTRATION DATE ClinicalTrials.gov: 24 January 2014; EudraCT: 19 December 2013. DATE OF FIRST PATIENT'S ENROLMENT 30 January 2014.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Humaidan
- The Fertility Clinic, Skive Regional Hospital, Skive, Denmark.,Faculty of Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - W Chin
- Global Biostatistics and Epidemiology, EMD Serono, Billerica, MA, USA, a business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - D Rogoff
- Global Clinical Development, EMD Serono Research and Development Institute, Billerica, MA, USA, a business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - T D'Hooghe
- Global Medical Affairs Fertility, Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - S Longobardi
- Global Medical Affairs Fertility, Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - J Hubbard
- Global Clinical Development, EMD Serono Research and Development Institute, Billerica, MA, USA, a business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - J Schertz
- Global Clinical Development, EMD Serono Research and Development Institute, Billerica, MA, USA, a business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
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Regan SLP, Knight PG, Yovich JL, Leung Y, Arfuso F, Dharmarajan A. Granulosa Cell Apoptosis in the Ovarian Follicle-A Changing View. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2018; 9:61. [PMID: 29551992 PMCID: PMC5840209 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2018.00061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2017] [Accepted: 02/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent studies challenge the previous view that apoptosis within the granulosa cells of the maturing ovarian follicle is a reflection of aging and consequently a marker for poor quality of the contained oocyte. On the contrary, apoptosis within the granulosa cells is an integral part of normal development and has limited predictive capability regarding oocyte quality or the ensuing pregnancy rate in in vitro fertilization programs. This review article covers our revised understanding of the process of apoptosis within the ovarian follicle, its three phenotypes, the major signaling pathways underlying apoptosis as well as the associated mitochondrial pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheena L. P. Regan
- Stem Cell and Cancer Biology Laboratory, School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
- *Correspondence: Sheena L. P. Regan,
| | - Phil G. Knight
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Reading, Reading, United Kingdom
| | - John L. Yovich
- Stem Cell and Cancer Biology Laboratory, School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
- PIVET Medical Centre, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Yee Leung
- Western Australian Gynaecologic Cancer Service, King Edward Memorial Hospital for Women, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Frank Arfuso
- Stem Cell and Cancer Biology Laboratory, School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Arun Dharmarajan
- Stem Cell and Cancer Biology Laboratory, School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
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Liang S, Nie ZW, Zhao M, Niu YJ, Shin KT, Cui XS. Sodium fluoride exposure exerts toxic effects on porcine oocyte maturation. Sci Rep 2017; 7:17082. [PMID: 29213094 PMCID: PMC5719058 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-17357-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2017] [Accepted: 11/22/2017] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Excessive long-term fluoride intake is associated with several health problems, including infertility. However, limited information is available on the toxic effects of fluoride exposure on the female reproductive system, especially oocyte maturation. In this study, we investigated the toxic effect of sodium fluoride (NaF) exposure on porcine oocyte maturation and its possible underlying mechanisms. Our results showed that NaF exposure during porcine oocyte maturation inhibited cumulus cell expansion and impaired polar body extrusion. Cell cycle analysis showed that NaF exposure blocked meiotic resumption, disturbed spindle dynamics, disrupted chromosome separation, and increased aneuploidy in porcine oocytes. Moreover, NaF exposure disturbed mitochondrial function, triggered DNA damage response, and induced early apoptosis in porcine oocytes. NaF exposure also induced oxidative stress, decreased GSH level, and increased cathepsin B activity in and impaired the further development potential of porcine oocytes, as indicated by a decrease in blastocyst formation rate, increase in apoptosis, and inhibition of cell proliferation. Together, these results indicate that NaF exposure impairs the maturation capacity of porcine oocytes by inhibiting cumulus cell expansion, disturbing cytoskeletal dynamics, and blocking nuclear and cytoplasmic maturation, thus decreasing the quality and affecting the subsequent embryonic development potential of porcine oocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuang Liang
- Department of Animal Science, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Chungbuk, 361-763, Republic of Korea.,Department of Animal Sciences, College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, 130062, China
| | - Zheng-Wen Nie
- Department of Animal Science, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Chungbuk, 361-763, Republic of Korea
| | - Minghui Zhao
- Department of Animal Science, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Chungbuk, 361-763, Republic of Korea
| | - Ying-Jie Niu
- Department of Animal Science, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Chungbuk, 361-763, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyung-Tae Shin
- Department of Animal Science, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Chungbuk, 361-763, Republic of Korea
| | - Xiang-Shun Cui
- Department of Animal Science, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Chungbuk, 361-763, Republic of Korea.
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Susceptibility of human cumulus cells to bisphenol a In vitro. Reprod Toxicol 2017; 74:189-194. [DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2017.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2017] [Revised: 09/19/2017] [Accepted: 09/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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The presence of acylated ghrelin during in vitro maturation of bovine oocytes induces cumulus cell DNA damage and apoptosis, and impairs early embryo development. ZYGOTE 2017; 25:601-611. [PMID: 28929981 DOI: 10.1017/s0967199417000478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of acylated ghrelin supplementation during in vitro maturation (IVM) of bovine oocytes. IVM medium was supplemented with 20, 40 or 60 pM acylated ghrelin concentrations. Cumulus expansion area and oocyte nuclear maturation were studied as maturation parameters. Cumulus-oocyte complexes (COC) were assessed with the comet, apoptosis and viability assays. The in vitro effects of acylated ghrelin on embryo developmental capacity and embryo quality were also evaluated. Results demonstrated that acylated ghrelin did not affect oocyte nuclear maturation and cumulus expansion area. However, it induced cumulus cell (CC) death, apoptosis and DNA damage. The damage increased as a function of the concentration employed. Additionally, the percentages of blastocyst yield, hatching and embryo quality decreased with all acylated ghrelin concentrations tested. Our study highlights the importance of acylated ghrelin in bovine reproduction, suggesting that this metabolic hormone could function as a signal that prevents the progress to reproductive processes.
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Lin LT, Cheng JT, Wang PH, Li CJ, Tsui KH. Dehydroepiandrosterone as a potential agent to slow down ovarian aging. J Obstet Gynaecol Res 2017; 43:1855-1862. [PMID: 28892223 DOI: 10.1111/jog.13456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2017] [Revised: 06/05/2017] [Accepted: 06/30/2017] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
AIM Ovarian aging, which leads to diminished ovarian reserve and decreased oocyte quality, is highly associated with poor reproductive outcomes. It has been suggested that dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) might be able to temporarily slow down the aging process. This study attempted to investigate the clinical benefits of DHEA in older patients and the anti-senescence effect of DHEA on cumulus cells (CC) and human ovarian granulosa cells (HO23 cell line). METHODS This prospective study enrolled 88 patients who underwent in vitro fertilization (IVF), including 30 younger patients (aged ≤ 37 years) and 58 older patients (aged > 37 years). Older patients were assigned to receive DHEA treatment or not prior to the IVF cycle. CC were obtained from all patients after oocyte retrieval and the HO23 granulosa cell line was used for in vitro studies. Senescence-associated β-galactosidase (SA-β-gal) was used as a biomarker of senescence. RESULTS In older patients, following DHEA supplementation, a greater number of transferred embryos and a higher fertilization rate were observed compared with those in patients without DHEA supplementation. However, the clinical pregnancy rate was not significantly increased following DHEA supplementation. Additionally, treatment with DHEA resulted in significantly reduced SA-β-gal staining in both CC and HO23 cells. CONCLUSION DHEA supplementation ameliorated IVF outcomes but without a consequence on pregnancy rate in older patients and decreased SA-β-gal activity in CC and HO23 cells, suggesting that DHEA might be used as a possible intervention to slow down ovarian aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Te Lin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,Department of Biological Science, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Yang-Ming University School of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Jiin-Tsuey Cheng
- Department of Biological Science, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Peng-Hui Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Yang-Ming University School of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan.,Division of Gynecology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Yang-Ming University Hospital, Ilan, Taiwan.,Immunology Center, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Jung Li
- Research Assistant Center, Show Chwan Health Memorial Hospital, Changhua, Taiwan
| | - Kuan-Hao Tsui
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Yang-Ming University School of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Pharmacy and Graduate Institute of Pharmaceutical Technology, Tajen University, Pingtung County, Taiwan
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