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Chow DJX, Tan TCY, Upadhya A, Lim M, Dholakia K, Dunning KR. Viewing early life without labels: optical approaches for imaging the early embryo†. Biol Reprod 2024; 110:1157-1174. [PMID: 38647415 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioae062] [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: 01/28/2024] [Revised: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Embryo quality is an important determinant of successful implantation and a resultant live birth. Current clinical approaches for evaluating embryo quality rely on subjective morphology assessments or an invasive biopsy for genetic testing. However, both approaches can be inherently inaccurate and crucially, fail to improve the live birth rate following the transfer of in vitro produced embryos. Optical imaging offers a potential non-invasive and accurate avenue for assessing embryo viability. Recent advances in various label-free optical imaging approaches have garnered increased interest in the field of reproductive biology due to their ability to rapidly capture images at high resolution, delivering both morphological and molecular information. This burgeoning field holds immense potential for further development, with profound implications for clinical translation. Here, our review aims to: (1) describe the principles of various imaging systems, distinguishing between approaches that capture morphological and molecular information, (2) highlight the recent application of these technologies in the field of reproductive biology, and (3) assess their respective merits and limitations concerning the capacity to evaluate embryo quality. Additionally, the review summarizes challenges in the translation of optical imaging systems into routine clinical practice, providing recommendations for their future development. Finally, we identify suitable imaging approaches for interrogating the mechanisms underpinning successful embryo development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darren J X Chow
- Robinson Research Institute, School of Biomedicine, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
- Institute for Photonics and Advanced Sensing, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
- Centre of Light for Life, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Tiffany C Y Tan
- Robinson Research Institute, School of Biomedicine, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
- Institute for Photonics and Advanced Sensing, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Avinash Upadhya
- Institute for Photonics and Advanced Sensing, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
- Centre of Light for Life, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Megan Lim
- Robinson Research Institute, School of Biomedicine, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
- Institute for Photonics and Advanced Sensing, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
- Centre of Light for Life, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Kishan Dholakia
- Centre of Light for Life, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
- Scottish Universities Physics Alliance, School of Physics and Astronomy, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, United Kingdom
| | - Kylie R Dunning
- Robinson Research Institute, School of Biomedicine, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
- Institute for Photonics and Advanced Sensing, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
- Centre of Light for Life, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
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2
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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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Mangini M, Limatola N, Ferrara MA, Coppola G, Chun JT, De Luca AC, Santella L. Application of Raman spectroscopy to the evaluation of F-actin changes in sea urchin eggs at fertilization. ZYGOTE 2024; 32:38-48. [PMID: 38050697 DOI: 10.1017/s0967199423000552] [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] [Indexed: 12/06/2023]
Abstract
The actin filaments on the surface of echinoderm oocytes and eggs readily undergo massive reorganization during meiotic maturation and fertilization. In sea urchin eggs, the actin cytoskeletal response to the fertilizing sperm is fast enough to accompany Ca2+ signals and to guide sperm's entry into the egg. Although recent work using live cell imaging technology confirmed changes in the actin polymerization status in fertilized eggs, as was previously shown using light and electron microscopy, it failed to provide experimental evidence of F-actin depolymerization a few seconds after insemination, which is concurrent with the sperm-induced Ca2+ release. In the present study, we applied Raman microspectroscopy to tackle this issue by examining the spectral profiles of the egg's subplasmalemmal regions before and after treating the eggs with actin drugs or fertilizing sperm. At both early (15 s) and late (15 min) time points after fertilization, specific peak shifts in the Raman spectra revealed change in the actin structure, and Raman imaging detected the cytoskeletal changes corresponding to the F-actin reorganization visualized with LifeAct-GFP in confocal microscopy. Our observation suggests that the application of Raman spectroscopy, which does not require microinjection of fluorescent probes and exogenous gene expression, may serve as an alternative or even advantageous method in disclosing rapid subtle changes in the subplasmalemmal actin cytoskeleton that are difficult to resolve.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Mangini
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology 'G. Salvatore', Second Unit, National Research Council, 80131Naples, Italy
| | - Nunzia Limatola
- Department of Research Infrastructures for Marine Biological Resources, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, 80121Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Antonietta Ferrara
- Institute of Applied Sciences and Intelligent Systems 'E. Caianiello', Unit of Naples, National Research Council, 80131Naples, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Coppola
- Institute of Applied Sciences and Intelligent Systems 'E. Caianiello', Unit of Naples, National Research Council, 80131Naples, Italy
| | - Jong Tai Chun
- Department of Biology and Evolution of Marine Organisms, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, 80121Naples, Italy
| | - Anna Chiara De Luca
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology 'G. Salvatore', Second Unit, National Research Council, 80131Naples, Italy
| | - Luigia Santella
- Department of Research Infrastructures for Marine Biological Resources, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, 80121Naples, Italy
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Siwakoti B, Lien TS, Lin YY, Pethaperumal S, Hung SC, Sun DS, Cheng CF, Chang HH. The Role of Activating Transcription Factor 3 in Metformin's Alleviation of Gastrointestinal Injury Induced by Restraint Stress in Mice. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:10995. [PMID: 37446172 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241310995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2023] [Revised: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Metformin is one of the most commonly used drugs for type 2 diabetes mellitus. In addition to its anti-diabetic property, evidence suggests more potential applications for metformin, such as antiaging, cellular protection, and anti-inflammation. Studies have reported that metformin activates pathways with anti-inflammatory effects, enhances the integrity of gut epithelial tight junctions, and promotes a healthy gut microbiome. These actions contribute to the protective effect of metformin against gastrointestinal (GI) tract injury. However, whether metformin plays a protective role in psychological-stress-associated GI tract injury remains elusive. We aim to elucidate the potential protective effect of metformin on the GI system and develop an effective intervention strategy to counteract GI injury induced by acute psychological stress. By monitoring the levels of GI-nonabsorbable Evans blue dye in the bloodstream, we assessed the progression of GI injury in live mice. Our findings demonstrate that the administration of metformin effectively mitigated GI leakage caused by psychological stress. The GI protective effect of metformin is more potent when used on wild-type mice than on activating-transcription-factor 3 (ATF3)-deficient (ATF3-/-) mice. As such, metformin-mediated rescue was conducted in an ATF3-dependent manner. In addition, metformin-mediated protection is associated with the induction of stress-induced GI mRNA expressions of the stress-induced genes ATF3 and AMP-activated protein kinase. Furthermore, metformin treatment-mediated protection of CD326+ GI epithelial cells against stress-induced apoptotic cell death was observed in wild-type but not in ATF3-/- mice. These results suggest that metformin plays a protective role in stress-induced GI injury and that ATF3 is an essential regulator for metformin-mediated rescue of stress-induced GI tract injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bijaya Siwakoti
- Department of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Tzu-Chi University, Hualien 97004, Taiwan
| | - Te-Sheng Lien
- Department of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Tzu-Chi University, Hualien 97004, Taiwan
| | - You-Yen Lin
- Department of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Tzu-Chi University, Hualien 97004, Taiwan
| | - Subhashree Pethaperumal
- Department of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Tzu-Chi University, Hualien 97004, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Che Hung
- Institute of Medical Sciences, Tzu-Chi University, Hualien 97004, Taiwan
| | - Der-Shan Sun
- Department of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Tzu-Chi University, Hualien 97004, Taiwan
- Institute of Medical Sciences, Tzu-Chi University, Hualien 97004, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Feng Cheng
- Department of Pediatrics, Taipei Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, Taipei 23142, Taiwan
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taipei 11529, Taiwan
| | - Hsin-Hou Chang
- Department of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Tzu-Chi University, Hualien 97004, Taiwan
- Institute of Medical Sciences, Tzu-Chi University, Hualien 97004, Taiwan
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Dwapanyin GO, Chow DJX, Tan TCY, Dubost NS, Morizet JM, Dunning KR, Dholakia K. Investigation of refractive index dynamics during in vitro embryo development using off-axis digital holographic microscopy. BIOMEDICAL OPTICS EXPRESS 2023; 14:3327-3342. [PMID: 37497510 PMCID: PMC10368053 DOI: 10.1364/boe.492292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Revised: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
Embryo quality is a crucial factor affecting live birth outcomes. However, an accurate diagnostic for embryo quality remains elusive in the in vitro fertilization clinic. Determining physical parameters of the embryo may offer key information for this purpose. Here, we demonstrate that digital holographic microscopy (DHM) can rapidly and non-invasively assess the refractive index of mouse embryos. Murine embryos were cultured in either low- or high-lipid containing media and digital holograms recorded at various stages of development. The phase of the recorded hologram was numerically retrieved, from which the refractive index of the embryo was calculated. We showed that DHM can detect spatio-temporal changes in refractive index during embryo development that are reflective of its lipid content. As accumulation of intracellular lipid is known to compromise embryo health, DHM may prove beneficial in developing an accurate, non-invasive, multimodal diagnostic.
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Affiliation(s)
- George O. Dwapanyin
- SUPA, School of Physics and Astronomy, University of St Andrews, North Haugh, St Andrews, Fife, United Kingdom
| | - Darren J. X. Chow
- Robinson Research Institute, School of Biomedicine, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Nanoscale Biophotonics, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
- Institute for Photonics and Advanced Sensing, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Tiffany C. Y. Tan
- Robinson Research Institute, School of Biomedicine, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Nanoscale Biophotonics, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
- Institute for Photonics and Advanced Sensing, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Nicolas S. Dubost
- SUPA, School of Physics and Astronomy, University of St Andrews, North Haugh, St Andrews, Fife, United Kingdom
| | - Josephine M. Morizet
- SUPA, School of Physics and Astronomy, University of St Andrews, North Haugh, St Andrews, Fife, United Kingdom
| | - Kylie R. Dunning
- Robinson Research Institute, School of Biomedicine, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Nanoscale Biophotonics, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
- Institute for Photonics and Advanced Sensing, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Kishan Dholakia
- SUPA, School of Physics and Astronomy, University of St Andrews, North Haugh, St Andrews, Fife, United Kingdom
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
- Centre of Light for Life, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
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6
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Bisogno S, Gąsior Ł, Ptak GE. Nile Red and BODIPY Staining of Lipid Droplets in Mouse Oocytes and Embryos. Methods Mol Biol 2023; 2566:205-212. [PMID: 36152253 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2675-7_16] [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] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Lipid droplets (LDs) are intracellular structures composed of hydrophobic lipids. Their amount in oocytes and embryos varies among the mammalian species and even among different strains of the same species. Here we describe a method to stain LDs, which can be applied to previously fixed mouse oocytes and embryos. This method is based on fluorescent dyes, Nile red and BODIPY, which allow visualization and quantification of LDs using conventional and confocal fluorescence microscopy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simona Bisogno
- Malopolska Centre of Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
| | - Łukasz Gąsior
- Malopolska Centre of Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
| | - Grażyna E Ptak
- Malopolska Centre of Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland.
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Tan TCY, Dunning KR. Non-invasive assessment of oocyte developmental competence. Reprod Fertil Dev 2022; 35:39-50. [PMID: 36592982 DOI: 10.1071/rd22217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Oocyte quality is a key factor influencing IVF success. The oocyte and surrounding cumulus cells, known collectively as the cumulus oocyte complex (COC), communicate bi-directionally and regulate each other's metabolic function to support oocyte growth and maturation. Many studies have attempted to associate metabolic markers with oocyte quality, including metabolites in follicular fluid or 'spent medium' following maturation, gene expression of cumulus cells and measuring oxygen consumption in medium surrounding COCs. However, these methods fail to provide spatial metabolic information on the separate oocyte and cumulus cell compartments. Optical imaging of the autofluorescent cofactors - reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (phosphate) [NAD(P)H] and flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD) - has been put forward as an approach to generate spatially resolved measurements of metabolism within individual cells of the COC. The optical redox ratio (FAD/[NAD(P)H+FAD]), calculated from these cofactors, can act as an indicator of overall metabolic activity in the oocyte and cumulus cell compartments. Confocal microscopy, fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM) and hyperspectral microscopy may be used for this purpose. This review provides an overview of current optical imaging techniques that capture the inner biochemistry within cells of the COC and discusses the potential for such imaging to assess oocyte developmental competence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiffany C Y Tan
- Robinson Research Institute, School of Biomedicine, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Kylie R Dunning
- Robinson Research Institute, School of Biomedicine, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
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Musson R, Gąsior Ł, Bisogno S, Ptak GE. DNA damage in preimplantation embryos and gametes: specification, clinical relevance and repair strategies. Hum Reprod Update 2022; 28:376-399. [PMID: 35021196 PMCID: PMC9071077 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmab046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Revised: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND DNA damage is a hazard that affects all cells of the body. DNA-damage repair (DDR) mechanisms are in place to repair damage and restore cellular function, as are other damage-induced processes such as apoptosis, autophagy and senescence. The resilience of germ cells and embryos in response to DNA damage is less well studied compared with other cell types. Given that recent studies have described links between embryonic handling techniques and an increased likelihood of disease in post-natal life, an update is needed to summarize the sources of DNA damage in embryos and their capacity to repair it. In addition, numerous recent publications have detailed novel techniques for detecting and repairing DNA damage in embryos. This information is of interest to medical or scientific personnel who wish to obtain undamaged embryos for use in offspring generation by ART. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE This review aims to thoroughly discuss sources of DNA damage in male and female gametes and preimplantation embryos. Special consideration is given to current knowledge and limits in DNA damage detection and screening strategies. Finally, obstacles and future perspectives in clinical diagnosis and treatment (repair) of DNA damaged embryos are discussed. SEARCH METHODS Using PubMed and Google Scholar until May 2021, a comprehensive search for peer-reviewed original English-language articles was carried out using keywords relevant to the topic with no limits placed on time. Keywords included ‘DNA damage repair’, ‘gametes’, ‘sperm’, ‘oocyte’, ‘zygote’, ‘blastocyst’ and ‘embryo’. References from retrieved articles were also used to obtain additional articles. Literature on the sources and consequences of DNA damage on germ cells and embryos was also searched. Additional papers cited by primary references were included. Results from our own studies were included where relevant. OUTCOMES DNA damage in gametes and embryos can differ greatly based on the source and severity. This damage affects the development of the embryo and can lead to long-term health effects on offspring. DDR mechanisms can repair damage to a certain extent, but the factors that play a role in this process are numerous and altogether not well characterized. In this review, we describe the multifactorial origin of DNA damage in male and female gametes and in the embryo, and suggest screening strategies for the selection of healthy gametes and embryos. Furthermore, possible therapeutic solutions to decrease the frequency of DNA damaged gametes and embryos and eventually to repair DNA and increase mitochondrial quality in embryos before their implantation is discussed. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Understanding DNA damage in gametes and embryos is essential for the improvement of techniques that could enhance embryo implantation and pregnancy success. While our knowledge about DNA damage factors and regulatory mechanisms in cells has advanced greatly, the number of feasible practical techniques to avoid or repair damaged embryos remains scarce. Our intention is therefore to focus on strategies to obtain embryos with as little DNA damage as possible, which will impact reproductive biology research with particular significance for reproductive clinicians and embryologists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard Musson
- Malopolska Centre of Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
| | - Łukasz Gąsior
- Malopolska Centre of Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
| | - Simona Bisogno
- Malopolska Centre of Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
| | - Grażyna Ewa Ptak
- Malopolska Centre of Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
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Chuang DJ, Pethaperumal S, Siwakoti B, Chien HJ, Cheng CF, Hung SC, Lien TS, Sun DS, Chang HH. Activating Transcription Factor 3 Protects against Restraint Stress-Induced Gastrointestinal Injury in Mice. Cells 2021; 10:3530. [PMID: 34944038 PMCID: PMC8700235 DOI: 10.3390/cells10123530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2021] [Revised: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 12/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Psychological stress increases the risk of gastrointestinal (GI) tract diseases, which involve bidirectional communication of the GI and nerves systems. Acute stress leads to GI ulcers; however, the mechanism of the native cellular protection pathway, which safeguards tissue integrality and maintains GI homeostasis, remains to be investigated. In a mouse model of this study, restraint stress induced GI leakage, abnormal tight junction protein expression, and cell death of gut epithelial cells. The expression of activating transcription factor 3 (ATF3), a stress-responsive transcription factor, is upregulated in the GI tissues of stressed animals. ATF3-deficient mice displayed an exacerbated phenotype of GI injuries. These results suggested that, in response to stress, ATF3 is part of the native cellular protective pathway in the GI system, which could be a molecular target for managing psychological stress-induced GI tract diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dun-Jie Chuang
- Department of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Tzu-Chi University, Hualien 970, Taiwan; (D.-J.C.); (S.P.); (B.S.); (T.-S.L.); (D.-S.S.)
| | - Subhashree Pethaperumal
- Department of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Tzu-Chi University, Hualien 970, Taiwan; (D.-J.C.); (S.P.); (B.S.); (T.-S.L.); (D.-S.S.)
| | - Bijaya Siwakoti
- Department of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Tzu-Chi University, Hualien 970, Taiwan; (D.-J.C.); (S.P.); (B.S.); (T.-S.L.); (D.-S.S.)
| | - Hung-Jen Chien
- Institute of Biotechnology, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu 300, Taiwan;
| | - Ching-Feng Cheng
- Department of Pediatrics, Taipei Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, New Taipei City 231, Taiwan;
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taipei 115, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Che Hung
- Institute of Medical Sciences, Tzu-Chi University, Hualien 970, Taiwan;
| | - Te-Sheng Lien
- Department of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Tzu-Chi University, Hualien 970, Taiwan; (D.-J.C.); (S.P.); (B.S.); (T.-S.L.); (D.-S.S.)
| | - Der-Shan Sun
- Department of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Tzu-Chi University, Hualien 970, Taiwan; (D.-J.C.); (S.P.); (B.S.); (T.-S.L.); (D.-S.S.)
- Institute of Medical Sciences, Tzu-Chi University, Hualien 970, Taiwan;
| | - Hsin-Hou Chang
- Department of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Tzu-Chi University, Hualien 970, Taiwan; (D.-J.C.); (S.P.); (B.S.); (T.-S.L.); (D.-S.S.)
- Institute of Medical Sciences, Tzu-Chi University, Hualien 970, Taiwan;
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10
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Shewale B, Dubois N. Of form and function: Early cardiac morphogenesis across classical and emerging model systems. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2021; 118:107-118. [PMID: 33994301 PMCID: PMC8434962 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2021.04.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2021] [Revised: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The heart is the earliest organ to develop during embryogenesis and is remarkable in its ability to function efficiently as it is being sculpted. Cardiac heart defects account for a high burden of childhood developmental disorders with many remaining poorly understood mechanistically. Decades of work across a multitude of model organisms has informed our understanding of early cardiac differentiation and morphogenesis and has simultaneously opened new and unanswered questions. Here we have synthesized current knowledge in the field and reviewed recent developments in the realm of imaging, bioengineering and genetic technology and ex vivo cardiac modeling that may be deployed to generate more holistic models of early cardiac morphogenesis, and by extension, new platforms to study congenital heart defects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bhavana Shewale
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Regenerative Biology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA; Mindich Child Health and Development Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA; Black Family Stem Cell Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Nicole Dubois
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Regenerative Biology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA; Mindich Child Health and Development Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA; Black Family Stem Cell Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA.
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11
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Huang CY, Yu WS, Liu GC, Hung SC, Chang JH, Chang JC, Cheng CL, Sun DS, Lin MD, Lin WY, Tzeng YJ, Chang HH. Opportunistic gill infection is associated with TiO2 nanoparticle-induced mortality in zebrafish. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0247859. [PMID: 34283836 PMCID: PMC8291654 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0247859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Accepted: 02/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The large amounts of engineered titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2NPs) that have been manufactured have inevitably been released into the ecosystem. Reports have suggested that TiO2 is a relatively inert material that has low toxicity to animals. However, as various types of NPs increasingly accumulate in the ocean, their effects on aquatic life-forms remain unclear. In this study, a zebrafish model was used to investigate TiO2NP-induced injury and mortality. We found that the treatment dosages of TiO2NP are positively associated with increased motility of zebrafish and the bacterial counts in the water. Notably, gill but not dorsal fin and caudal fin of the zebrafish displayed considerably increased bacterial load. Metagenomic analysis further revealed that gut microflora, such as phyla Proteobacteria, Bacteroidetes, and Actinobacteria, involving more than 95% of total bacteria counts in the NP-injured zebrafish gill samples. These results collectively suggest that opportunistic bacterial infections are associated with TiO2NP-induced mortality in zebrafish. Infections secondary to TiO2NP-induced injury could be a neglected factor determining the detrimental effects of TiO2NPs on wild fish.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiao-Yi Huang
- Department of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Tzu-Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Sheng Yu
- Tzu-Chi Senior High School Affiliated with Tzu-Chi University, Tzu-Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - Geng-Chia Liu
- Tzu-Chi Senior High School Affiliated with Tzu-Chi University, Tzu-Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Che Hung
- Institute of Medical Sciences, Tzu-Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - Jen-Hsiang Chang
- Department and Graduate School of Computer Science, National Pingtung University, Pingtung, Taiwan
| | | | - Chia-Liang Cheng
- Department of Physics, National Dong Hwa University, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - Der-Shan Sun
- Department of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Tzu-Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Der Lin
- Department of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Tzu-Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Ying Lin
- Department of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Tzu-Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - Yin-Jeh Tzeng
- Department of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Tzu-Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - Hsin-Hou Chang
- Department of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Tzu-Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan
- Institute of Medical Sciences, Tzu-Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan
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12
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Lien TS, Chan H, Sun DS, Wu JC, Lin YY, Lin GL, Chang HH. Exposure of Platelets to Dengue Virus and Envelope Protein Domain III Induces Nlrp3 Inflammasome-Dependent Platelet Cell Death and Thrombocytopenia in Mice. Front Immunol 2021; 12:616394. [PMID: 33995345 PMCID: PMC8118162 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.616394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2020] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
In tropical and subtropical regions, mosquito-borne dengue virus (DENV) infections can lead to severe dengue, also known as dengue hemorrhage fever, which causes bleeding, thrombocytopenia, and blood plasma leakage and increases mortality. Although DENV-induced platelet cell death was linked to disease severity, the role of responsible viral factors and the elicitation mechanism of abnormal platelet activation and cell death remain unclear. DENV and virion-surface envelope protein domain III (EIII), a cellular binding moiety of the virus particle, highly increase during the viremia stage. Our previous report suggested that exposure to such viremia EIII levels can lead to cell death of endothelial cells, neutrophils, and megakaryocytes. Here we found that both DENV and EIII could induce abnormal platelet activation and predominantly necrotic cell death pyroptosis. Blockages of EIII-induced platelet signaling using the competitive inhibitor chondroitin sulfate B or selective Nlrp3 inflammasome inhibitors OLT1177 and Z-WHED-FMK markedly ameliorated DENV- and EIII-induced thrombocytopenia, platelet activation, and cell death. These results suggest that EIII could be considered as a virulence factor of DENV, and that Nlrp3 inflammasome is a feasible target for developing therapeutic approaches against dengue-induced platelet defects.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Hsin-Hou Chang
- Department of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Tzu-Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan
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13
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Lien TS, Sun DS, Hung SC, Wu WS, Chang HH. Dengue Virus Envelope Protein Domain III Induces Nlrp3 Inflammasome-Dependent NETosis-Mediated Inflammation in Mice. Front Immunol 2021; 12:618577. [PMID: 33815373 PMCID: PMC8009969 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.618577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2020] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Abnormal immune responses and cytokine storm are involved in the development of severe dengue, a life-threatening disease with high mortality. Dengue virus-induced neutrophil NETosis response is associated with cytokine storm; while the role of viral factors on the elicitation of excessive inflammation mains unclear. Here we found that treatments of dengue virus envelope protein domain III (EIII), cellular binding moiety of virion, is sufficient to induce neutrophil NETosis processes in vitro and in vivo. Challenges of EIII in inflammasome Nlrp3-/- and Casp1-/- mutant mice resulted in less inflammation and NETosis responses, as compared to the wild type controls. Blockages of EIII-neutrophil interaction using cell-binding competitive inhibitor or selective Nlrp3 inflammasome inhibitors OLT1177 and Z-WHED-FMK can suppress EIII-induced NETosis response. These results collectively suggest that Nlrp3 inflammsome is a molecular target for treating dengue-elicited inflammatory pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Te-Sheng Lien
- Department of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Tzu-Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - Der-Shan Sun
- Department of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Tzu-Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan
- Institute of Medical Sciences, Tzu-Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Che Hung
- Institute of Medical Sciences, Tzu-Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Sheng Wu
- Division of General Surgery, Department of Surgery, Hualien Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, Hualien, Taiwan
- School of Medicine, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - Hsin-Hou Chang
- Department of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Tzu-Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan
- Institute of Medical Sciences, Tzu-Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan
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14
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Lien TS, Sun DS, Wu CY, Chang HH. Exposure to Dengue Envelope Protein Domain III Induces Nlrp3 Inflammasome-Dependent Endothelial Dysfunction and Hemorrhage in Mice. Front Immunol 2021; 12:617251. [PMID: 33717109 PMCID: PMC7947687 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.617251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2020] [Accepted: 01/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Typically occurring during secondary dengue virus (DENV) infections, dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) causes abnormal immune responses, as well as endothelial vascular dysfunction, for which the responsible viral factor remains unclear. During peak viremia, the plasma levels of virion-associated envelope protein domain III (EIII) increases to a point at which cell death is sufficiently induced in megakaryocytes in vitro. Thus, EIII may constitute a virulence factor for endothelial damage. In this study, we examined endothelial cell death induced by treatment with DENV and EIII in vitro. Notably, pyroptosis, the major type of endothelial cell death observed, was attenuated through treatment with Nlrp3 inflammasome inhibitors. EIII injection effectively induced endothelial abnormalities, and sequential injection of EIII and DENV-NS1 autoantibodies induced further vascular damage, liver dysfunction, thrombocytopenia, and hemorrhage, which are typical manifestations in DHF. Under the same treatments, pathophysiological changes in the Nlrp3 inflammasome–deficient mice were notably reduced compared with those in the wild-type mice. These results suggest that the Nlrp3 inflammasome constitutes a potential therapeutic target for treating DENV-induced hemorrhage in DHF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Te-Sheng Lien
- Department of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Tzu-Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - Der-Shan Sun
- Department of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Tzu-Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Yeu Wu
- Center for Molecular and Clinical Immunology, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Hsin-Hou Chang
- Department of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Tzu-Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan
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15
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Suppressed humoral immunity is associated with dengue nonstructural protein NS1-elicited anti-death receptor antibody fractions in mice. Sci Rep 2020; 10:6294. [PMID: 32286343 PMCID: PMC7156414 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-62958-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2019] [Accepted: 03/12/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Dengue virus (DENV) infections may cause life-threatening dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF). Suppressed protective immunity was shown in these patients. Although several hypotheses have been formulated, the mechanism of DENV-induced immunosuppression remains unclear. Previously, we found that cross-reactive antibodies against tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) receptor 1 (death receptor 4 [DR4]) were elicited in DHF patients, and that anti-DR4 autoantibody fractions were elicited by nonstructural protein 1 (NS1) immunizations in experimental mice. In this study, we found that anti-DR4 antibodies could suppress B lymphocyte function in vitro and in vivo. Treatment with the anti-DR4 immunoglobulin (Ig) induced caspase-dependent cell death in immortalized B lymphocyte Raji cells in vitro. Anti-DR4 Igs elicited by NS1 and DR4 immunizations markedly suppressed mouse spleen transitional T2 B (IgM+IgD+), bone marrow pre-pro-B (B220+CD43+), pre-B (B220+CD43-), and mature B cell (B220+IgD+) subsets in mice. Furthermore, functional analysis revealed that the pre-elicitation of anti-NS1 and anti-DR4 Ig titers suppressed subsequently neutralizing antibody production by immunization with DENV envelop protein. Our data suggest that the elicitation of anti-DR4 titers through DENV NS1 immunization plays a suppressive role in humoral immunity in mice.
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16
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Wang S, Larina IV, Larin KV. Label-free optical imaging in developmental biology [Invited]. BIOMEDICAL OPTICS EXPRESS 2020; 11:2017-2040. [PMID: 32341864 PMCID: PMC7173889 DOI: 10.1364/boe.381359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2019] [Revised: 01/30/2020] [Accepted: 02/25/2020] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Application of optical imaging in developmental biology marks an exciting frontier in biomedical optics. Optical resolution and imaging depth allow for investigation of growing embryos at subcellular, cellular, and whole organism levels, while the complexity and variety of embryonic processes set multiple challenges stimulating the development of various live dynamic embryonic imaging approaches. Among other optical methods, label-free optical techniques attract an increasing interest as they allow investigation of developmental mechanisms without application of exogenous markers or fluorescent reporters. There has been a boost in development of label-free optical imaging techniques for studying embryonic development in animal models over the last decade, which revealed new information about early development and created new areas for investigation. Here, we review the recent progress in label-free optical embryonic imaging, discuss specific applications, and comment on future developments at the interface of photonics, engineering, and developmental biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shang Wang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Stevens Institute of Technology, 1 Castle Point Terrace, Hoboken, NJ 07030, USA
| | - Irina V. Larina
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Kirill V. Larin
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, 3605 Cullen Boulevard, Houston, TX 77204, USA
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17
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Thioacetamide-induced liver damage and thrombocytopenia is associated with induction of antiplatelet autoantibody in mice. Sci Rep 2019; 9:17497. [PMID: 31767905 PMCID: PMC6877565 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-53977-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2019] [Accepted: 10/30/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Thrombocytopenia is usually associated with liver injury, elevated plasma aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase levels, and high antiplatelet immunoglobulin (Ig) titers, although the mechanism behind these effects remains elusive. Deciphering the mechanism behind acute liver disease–associated thrombocytopenia may help solve difficulties in routine patient care, such as liver biopsy, antiviral therapy, and surgery. To determine whether liver damage is sufficient per se to elicit thrombocytopenia, thioacetamide (TAA)-induced hepatitis rodent models were employed. The analysis results indicated that TAA treatment transiently induced an elevation of antiplatelet antibody titer in both rats and mice. B-cell-deficient (BCD) mice, which have loss of antibody expression, exhibited markedly less thrombocytopenia and liver damage than wild-type controls. Because TAA still induces liver damage in BCD mice, this suggests that antiplatelet Ig is one of the pathogenic factors, which play exacerbating role in the acute phase of TAA-induced hepatitis. TNF-α was differentially regulated in wild-type versus BCD mice during TAA treatment, and anti-TNF treatment drastically ameliorated antiplatelet Ig induction, thrombocytopenia, and liver injury, suggesting that the TNF pathway plays a critical role in the disease progression.
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