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Hao J, Li T, Heinzelmann M, Moussaud-Lamodière E, Lebre F, Krjutškov K, Damdimopoulos A, Arnelo C, Pettersson K, Alfaro-Moreno E, Lindskog C, van Duursen M, Damdimopoulou P. Effects of chemical in vitro activation versus fragmentation on human ovarian tissue and follicle growth in culture. Hum Reprod Open 2024; 2024:hoae028. [PMID: 38803550 PMCID: PMC11128059 DOI: 10.1093/hropen/hoae028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION What is the effect of the chemical in vitro activation (cIVA) protocol compared with fragmentation only (Frag, also known as mechanical IVA) on gene expression, follicle activation and growth in human ovarian tissue in vitro? SUMMARY ANSWER Although histological assessment shows that cIVA significantly increases follicle survival and growth compared to Frag, both protocols stimulate extensive and nearly identical transcriptomic changes in cultured tissue compared to freshly collected ovarian tissue, including marked changes in energy metabolism and inflammatory responses. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Treatments based on cIVA of the phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN)-phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) pathway in ovarian tissue followed by auto-transplantation have been administered to patients with refractory premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) and resulted in live births. However, comparable effects with mere tissue fragmentation have been shown, questioning the added value of chemical stimulation that could potentially activate oncogenic responses. STUDY DESIGN SIZE DURATION Fifty-nine ovarian cortical biopsies were obtained from consenting women undergoing elective caesarean section (C-section). The samples were fragmented for culture studies. Half of the fragments were exposed to bpV (HOpic)+740Y-P (Frag+cIVA group) during the first 24 h of culture, while the other half were cultured with medium only (Frag group). Subsequently, both groups were cultured with medium only for an additional 6 days. Tissue and media samples were collected for histological, transcriptomic, steroid hormone, and cytokine/chemokine analyses at various time points. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS SETTING METHODS Effects on follicles were evaluated by counting and scoring serial sections stained with hematoxylin and eosin before and after the 7-day culture. Follicle function was assessed by quantification of steroids by ultra-performance liquid chromatography tandem-mass spectrometry at different time points. Cytokines and chemokines were measured by multiplex assay. Transcriptomic effects were measured by RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq) of the tissue after the initial 24-h culture. Selected differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were validated by quantitative PCR and immunofluorescence in cultured ovarian tissue as well as in KGN cell (human ovarian granulosa-like tumor cell line) culture experiments. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Compared to the Frag group, the Frag+cIVA group exhibited a significantly higher follicle survival rate, increased numbers of secondary follicles, and larger follicle sizes. Additionally, the tissue in the Frag+cIVA group produced less dehydroepiandrosterone compared to Frag. Cytokine measurement showed a strong inflammatory response at the start of the culture in both groups. The RNA-seq data revealed modest differences between the Frag+cIVA and Frag groups, with only 164 DEGs identified using a relaxed cut-off of false discovery rate (FDR) <0.1. Apart from the expected PI3K-protein kinase B (Akt) pathway, cIVA also regulated pathways related to hypoxia, cytokines, and inflammation. In comparison to freshly collected ovarian tissue, gene expression in general was markedly affected in both the Frag+cIVA and Frag groups, with a total of 3119 and 2900 DEGs identified (FDR < 0.001), respectively. The top enriched gene sets in both groups included several pathways known to modulate follicle growth such as mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR)C1 signaling. Significant changes compared to fresh tissue were also observed in the expression of genes encoding for steroidogenesis enzymes and classical granulosa cell markers in both groups. Intriguingly, we discovered a profound upregulation of genes related to glycolysis and its upstream regulator in both Frag and Frag+cIVA groups, and these changes were further boosted by the cIVA treatment. Cell culture experiments confirmed glycolysis-related genes as direct targets of the cIVA drugs. In conclusion, cIVA enhances follicle growth, as expected, but the mechanisms may be more complex than PI3K-Akt-mTOR alone, and the impact on function and quality of the follicles after the culture period remains an open question. LARGE SCALE DATA Data were deposited in the GEO data base, accession number GSE234765. The code for sequencing analysis can be found in https://github.com/tialiv/IVA_project. LIMITATIONS REASONS FOR CAUTION Similar to the published IVA protocols, the first steps in our study were performed in an in vitro culture model where the ovarian tissue was isolated from the regulation of hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis. Further in vivo experiments will be needed, for example in xeno-transplantation models, to explore the long-term impacts of the discovered effects. The tissue collected from patients undergoing C-section may not be comparable to tissue of patients with POI. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS The general impact of fragmentation and short (24 h) in vitro culture on gene expression in ovarian tissue far exceeded the effects of cIVA. Yet, follicle growth was stimulated by cIVA, which may suggest effects on specific cell populations that may be diluted in bulk RNA-seq. Nevertheless, we confirmed the impact of cIVA on glycolysis using a cell culture model, suggesting impacts on cellular signaling beyond the PI3K pathway. The profound changes in inflammation and glycolysis following fragmentation and culture could contribute to follicle activation and loss in ovarian tissue culture, as well as in clinical applications, such as fertility preservation by ovarian tissue auto-transplantation. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS This study was funded by research grants from European Union's Horizon 2020 Research and Innovation Programme (Project ERIN No. 952516, FREIA No. 825100), Swedish Research Council VR (2020-02132), StratRegen funding from Karolinska Institutet, KI-China Scholarship Council (CSC) Programme and the Natural Science Foundation of Hunan (2022JJ40782). International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory Research was funded by the European Union's H2020 Project Sinfonia (857253) and SbDToolBox (NORTE-01-0145-FEDER-000047), supported by Norte Portugal Regional Operational Programme (NORTE 2020), under the PORTUGAL 2020 Partnership Agreement, through the European Regional Development Fund. No competing interests are declared.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Hao
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, P.R. China
- Department of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Tianyi Li
- Department of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Manuel Heinzelmann
- Department of Environment and Health, Amsterdam Institute for Life and Environment, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Elisabeth Moussaud-Lamodière
- Department of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Filipa Lebre
- Nanosafety Group, International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory, Braga, Portugal
| | - Kaarel Krjutškov
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
- Competence Centre on Health Technologies, Tartu, Estonia
| | | | - Catarina Arnelo
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Karin Pettersson
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Cecilia Lindskog
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Cancer Precision Medicine Research Program, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Majorie van Duursen
- Department of Environment and Health, Amsterdam Institute for Life and Environment, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Pauliina Damdimopoulou
- Department of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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Keckstein P, Dittrich R, Bleisinger N, Hoffmann I, Beckmann MW, Gebhardt A, Schmid B, Keckstein S. Survival and hormone production of isolated mouse follicles in three-dimensional artificial scaffolds after stimulation with bpV(HOpic). Arch Gynecol Obstet 2024; 309:2127-2136. [PMID: 38472502 PMCID: PMC11018681 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-024-07419-z] [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: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE To preserve fertility before gonadotoxic therapy, ovarian tissue can be removed, cryopreserved, and transplanted back again after treatment. An alternative is the artificial ovary, in which the ovarian follicles are extracted from the tissue, which reduces the risk of reimplantation of potentially remaining malignant cells. The PTEN inhibitor bpV(HOpic) has been shown to activate human, bovine and alpacas ovarian follicles, and it is therefore considered a promising substance for developing the artificial ovary. The purpose of this study was to examine the impact of different scaffolds and the vanadate derivative bpV(HOpic) on mice follicle survival and hormone secretion over 10 days. METHODS A comparative analysis was performed, studying the survival rates (SR) of isolated mice follicle in four different groups that differed either in the scaffold (polycaprolactone scaffold versus polyethylene terephthalate membrane) or in the medium-bpV(HOpic) versus control medium. The observation period of the follicles was 10 days. On days 2, 6, and 10, the viability and morphology of the follicles were checked using fluorescence or confocal microscopy. Furthermore, hormone levels of estrogen (pmol/L) and progesterone (nmol/L) were determined. RESULTS When comparing the SR of follicles among the four groups, it was observed that on day 6, the study groups utilizing the polycaprolactone scaffold with bpV(HOpic) in the medium (SR: 0.48 ± 0.18; p = 0.004) or functionalized in the scaffold (SR: 0.50 ± 0.20; p = 0.003) exhibited significantly higher survival rates compared to the group using only the polyethylene terephthalate membrane (SR: 0). On day 10, a significantly higher survival rate was only noted when comparing the polycaprolactone scaffold with bpV(HOpic) in the medium to the polyethylene terephthalate membrane group (SR: 0.38 ± 0.20 versus 0; p = 0.007). Higher levels of progesterone were only significantly associated with better survival rates in the group with the polycaprolactone scaffold functionalized with bpV(HOpic) (p = 0.017). CONCLUSION This study demonstrates that three-dimensional polycaprolactone scaffolds improve the survival rates of isolated mice follicles in comparison with a conventional polyethylene terephthalate membrane. The survival rates slightly improve with added bpV(HOpic). Furthermore, higher rates of progesterone were also partly associated with improved survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip Keckstein
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Erlangen University Hospital, Friedrich-Alexander-University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, Comprehensive Cancer Center ER-EMN, Erlangen, Germany.
| | - Ralf Dittrich
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Erlangen University Hospital, Friedrich-Alexander-University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, Comprehensive Cancer Center ER-EMN, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Nathalie Bleisinger
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Erlangen University Hospital, Friedrich-Alexander-University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, Comprehensive Cancer Center ER-EMN, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Inge Hoffmann
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Erlangen University Hospital, Friedrich-Alexander-University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, Comprehensive Cancer Center ER-EMN, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Matthias W Beckmann
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Erlangen University Hospital, Friedrich-Alexander-University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, Comprehensive Cancer Center ER-EMN, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Albrecht Gebhardt
- Department of Statistics, University of Klagenfurt, Klagenfurt, Austria
| | - Benjamin Schmid
- Optical Imaging Center Erlangen (OICE), University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Simon Keckstein
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, LMU University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
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Li J, Fan H, Liu W, Zhang J, Xiao Y, Peng Y, Yang W, Liu W, He Y, Qin L, Ma X, Li J. Mesenchymal stem cells promote ovarian reconstruction in mice. Stem Cell Res Ther 2024; 15:115. [PMID: 38650029 PMCID: PMC11036642 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-024-03718-z] [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: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Studies have shown that chemotherapy and radiotherapy can cause premature ovarian failure and loss of fertility in female cancer patients. Ovarian cortex cryopreservation is a good choice to preserve female fertility before cancer treatment. Following the remission of the disease, the thawed ovarian tissue can be transplanted back and restore fertility of the patient. However, there is a risk to reintroduce cancer cells in the body and leads to the recurrence of cancer. Given the low success rate of current in vitro culture techniques for obtaining mature oocytes from primordial follicles, an artificial ovary with primordial follicles may be a good way to solve this problem. METHODS In the study, we established an artificial ovary model based on the participation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) to evaluate the effect of MSCs on follicular development and oocyte maturation. P2.5 mouse ovaries were digested into single cell suspensions and mixed with bone marrow derived mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs) at a 1:1 ratio. The reconstituted ovarian model was then generated by using phytohemagglutinin. The phenotype and mechanism studies were explored by follicle counting, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, in vitro maturation (IVM), in vitro fertilization (IVF), real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), and Terminal-deoxynucleotidyl transferase mediated nick end labeling(TUNEL) assay. RESULTS Our study found that the addition of BM-MSCs to the reconstituted ovary can enhance the survival of oocytes and promote the growth and development of follicles. After transplanting the reconstituted ovaries under kidney capsules of the recipient mice, we observed normal folliculogenesis and oocyte maturation. Interestingly, we found that BM-MSCs did not contribute to the formation of follicles in ovarian aggregation, nor did they undergo proliferation during follicle growth. Instead, the cells were found to be located around growing follicles in the reconstituted ovary. When theca cells were labeled with CYP17a1, we found some overlapped staining with green fluorescent protein(GFP)-labeled BM-MSCs. The results suggest that BM-MSCs may participate in directing the differentiation of theca layer in the reconstituted ovary. CONCLUSIONS The presence of BM-MSCs in the artificial ovary was found to promote the survival of ovarian cells, as well as facilitate follicle formation and development. Since the cells didn't proliferate in the reconstituted ovary, this discovery suggests a potential new and safe method for the application of MSCs in clinical fertility preservation by enhancing the success rate of cryo-thawed ovarian tissues after transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiazhao Li
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring health, Nanjing Medical University, 210029, Nanjing, China
- Scientific Research Department, Wannan Medical College, 241002, Wuhu, China
| | - Haonan Fan
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring health, Nanjing Medical University, 210029, Nanjing, China
| | - Wei Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring health, Nanjing Medical University, 210029, Nanjing, China
| | - Jing Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring health, Nanjing Medical University, 210029, Nanjing, China
| | - Yue Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring health, Nanjing Medical University, 210029, Nanjing, China
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 310003, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yue Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring health, Nanjing Medical University, 210029, Nanjing, China
- Pathology Department, Nanjing Kingmed Medical Laboratory Co.,Ltd., 210032, Nanjing, China
| | - Weijie Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring health, Nanjing Medical University, 210029, Nanjing, China
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 310016, Hangzhou, China
| | - Wenwen Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring health, Nanjing Medical University, 210029, Nanjing, China
- Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University (Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital), 21003, Nanjing, China
| | - Yuanlin He
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring health, Nanjing Medical University, 210029, Nanjing, China
| | - Lianju Qin
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Center of Clinical Reproductive Medicine, Jiangsu Province Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 210029, Nanjing, China.
| | - Xiang Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Center of Clinical Reproductive Medicine, Jiangsu Province Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 210029, Nanjing, China.
- Prenatal Diagnosis Department, First Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, 210029, Nanjing, China.
| | - Jing Li
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring health, Nanjing Medical University, 210029, Nanjing, China.
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So W, Abazarikia A, Zelinski MB, Kim SY. Sodium thiosulfate does not protect ovarian reserve from cisplatin-induced gonadotoxicity†. Biol Reprod 2024; 110:772-781. [PMID: 38195246 PMCID: PMC11017129 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioae003] [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: 08/21/2023] [Revised: 12/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Cisplatin, a platinum-containing alkylating agent, is used in the treatment of various tumors owing to its potent antitumor activity. However, it causes permanent and adverse effects, particularly hearing loss and depletion of ovarian reserve. Until recently, there were no clinically available protective agents to mitigate the adverse side effects of cisplatin-induced cytotoxicity. In 2022, sodium thiosulfate (STS) was approved by the Food and Drug Administration for mitigating hearing loss in children and adolescents undergoing cisplatin treatment. Consequently, our investigation aimed to determine if STS could protect ovarian reserve against cisplatin-induced gonadotoxicity. In an ex vivo culture, the cisplatin-only group exhibited a loss of primordial follicles, while post-STS administration after cisplatin exposure effectively protected primordial follicles. However, when post-STS was administrated either 6 or 4 h after cisplatin exposure, it did not confer protection against cisplatin-induced gonadotoxicity in postnatal day 7 or adolescent mouse models. Immunofluorescence assays using γH2AX and cPARP revealed that oocytes within primordial follicles exhibited DNA damage after cisplatin exposure, irrespective of post-STS administration. This underscores the rapid and heightened sensitivity of oocytes to gonadotoxicity. In addition, oocytes demonstrated an increased expression of pCHK2 rather than pERK, suggesting that the pathway leading to oocyte death differs from the pathway observed in the inner ear cell death following cisplatin exposure. These results imply that while the administration of STS after cisplatin is highly beneficial in preventing hearing loss, it does not confer a protective effect on the ovaries in mouse models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wonmi So
- Olson Center for Women’s Health, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Amirhossein Abazarikia
- Olson Center for Women’s Health, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Mary B Zelinski
- Division of Reproductive & Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Beaverton, OR, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - So-Youn Kim
- Olson Center for Women’s Health, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
- Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
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Hirano M, Wada-Hiraike O, Fukui M, Shibata S, Uehara M, Nagumo A, Urata Y, Sone K, Harada M, Koga K, Osuga Y. Ulipristal (UPA) effects on rat ovaries: Unraveling follicle dynamics, ovulation inhibition, and safety implications for prolonged use. Reprod Toxicol 2024; 125:108571. [PMID: 38458359 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2024.108571] [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: 12/13/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/10/2024]
Abstract
Ulipristal (UPA), a selective progesterone receptor modulator, has both agonistic and antagonistic effects on progesterone receptors. UPA suppresses ovulation by inhibiting the luteinizing hormone (LH) surge from the pituitary gland; however, the direct effect of UPA on ovarian tissue remains poorly studied. In the present study, we examined the effects of UPA on the ovaries of rats. Rats were treated for 28 days with UPA, and the effects of UPA on ovarian tissue were examined histologically and the expression of antioxidant genes and cell death markers were also investigated. UPA treatment increased the number of primordial follicles at each treatment group, primordial follicles increased at all dose levels, but the size/magnitude of the effect decreased with the increasing dose. The number of primary and antral follicles tended to increase with increasing UPA levels. Furthermore, the decrease in primary follicle number could be attributed to the exhaustion of follicles, but the examination of proliferation markers, oxidative stress markers, and cell death markers revealed no remarkable toxic effects on ovarian tissues. These results suggest that UPA treatment promotes follicle development at each stage but inhibits ovulation by suppressing the LH surge, resulting in an increase in atretic follicles or unruptured luteinized cysts. These results suggest that UPA may not have both toxic effects on the ovary and a direct local effect on ovarian follicles, but we should be careful about the effects of prolonged UPA treatment in patients with uterine fibroids on their future fecundity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mana Hirano
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate school of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 1138655, Japan; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Teikyo University, Tokyo 1738606, Japan
| | - Osamu Wada-Hiraike
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate school of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 1138655, Japan.
| | | | | | - Mari Uehara
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate school of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 1138655, Japan
| | - Aiko Nagumo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate school of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 1138655, Japan
| | - Yoko Urata
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate school of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 1138655, Japan
| | - Kenbun Sone
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate school of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 1138655, Japan
| | - Miyuki Harada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate school of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 1138655, Japan
| | - Kaori Koga
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate school of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 1138655, Japan
| | - Yutaka Osuga
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate school of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 1138655, Japan
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Zhang T, Tong Y, Zhu R, Liang Y, Zhang J, Hu C, He M, Hu Z, Shen Z, Niu J, Zhang J, Yu Y, Jin B, Lei S, Zeng Z, Wu Y, Cheng Z, Xiao Z, Guo B, Zhao S, Xu G, Pan W, Chen T. HDAC6-dependent deacetylation of NGF dictates its ubiquitination and maintains primordial follicle dormancy. Theranostics 2024; 14:2345-2366. [PMID: 38646645 PMCID: PMC11024860 DOI: 10.7150/thno.95164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Rationale: Primordial follicles are limited in number and cannot be regenerated, dormant primordial follicles cannot be reversed once they enter a growth state. Therefore, the length of the female reproductive lifespan depends on the orderly progression and selective activation of primordial follicles, the mechanism of which remains unclear. Methods: We used human ovarian cortical biopsy specimens, granulosa cells from diminished ovarian reserve (DOR) patients, Hdac6-overexpressing transgenic mouse model, and RNA sequencing to analyze the crucial roles of histone deacetylase 6 (HDAC6) in fertility preservation and primordial follicle activation. Results: In the present study, we found that HDAC6 was highly expressed in most dormant primordial follicles. The HDAC6 expression was reduced accompanying reproductive senescence in human and mouse ovaries. Overexpression of Hdac6 delayed the rate of primordial follicle activation, thereby prolonging the mouse reproductive lifespan. Short-term inhibition of HDAC6 promoted primordial follicle activation and follicular development in humans and mice. Mechanism studies revealed that HDAC6 directly interacted with NGF, reducing acetylation modification of NGF and thereby accelerating its ubiquitination degradation. Consequently, the reduced NGF protein level maintained the dormancy of primordial follicles. Conclusions: The physiological significance of the high expression of HDAC6 in most primordial follicles is to reduce NGF expression and prevent primordial follicle activation to maintain female fertility. Reduced HDAC6 expression increases NGF expression in primordial follicles, activating their development and contributing to reproduction. Our study provides a clinical reference value for fertility preservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tuo Zhang
- Transformation Engineering Research Center of Chronic Disease Diagnosis and Treatment, Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550009, China
- Prenatal Diagnosis Center in Guizhou Province, the Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550009, China
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis & Drug Research on Common Chronic Diseases, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550009, China
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou Province, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550009, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550009, China
- Guizhou Institute of Precision Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550009, China
| | - Yuntong Tong
- Transformation Engineering Research Center of Chronic Disease Diagnosis and Treatment, Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550009, China
| | - Rengguang Zhu
- College of Pharmacy, Guizhou Medical University, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550009, China
| | - Yaoyun Liang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou Province, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550009, China
| | - Jixian Zhang
- Transformation Engineering Research Center of Chronic Disease Diagnosis and Treatment, Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550009, China
| | - Chujiao Hu
- College of Pharmacy, Guizhou Medical University, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550009, China
| | - Meina He
- Transformation Engineering Research Center of Chronic Disease Diagnosis and Treatment, Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550009, China
- Guizhou Institute of Precision Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550009, China
| | - Zhu Hu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou Province, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550009, China
| | - Zhiyi Shen
- Transformation Engineering Research Center of Chronic Disease Diagnosis and Treatment, Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550009, China
| | - Jin Niu
- Prenatal Diagnosis Center in Guizhou Province, the Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550009, China
| | - Jingjing Zhang
- Transformation Engineering Research Center of Chronic Disease Diagnosis and Treatment, Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550009, China
| | - Yuanyuan Yu
- Transformation Engineering Research Center of Chronic Disease Diagnosis and Treatment, Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550009, China
| | - Bangming Jin
- Transformation Engineering Research Center of Chronic Disease Diagnosis and Treatment, Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550009, China
| | - Shan Lei
- Transformation Engineering Research Center of Chronic Disease Diagnosis and Treatment, Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550009, China
| | - Zhirui Zeng
- Transformation Engineering Research Center of Chronic Disease Diagnosis and Treatment, Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550009, China
| | - Yingmin Wu
- Transformation Engineering Research Center of Chronic Disease Diagnosis and Treatment, Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550009, China
| | - Zengmei Cheng
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou Province, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550009, China
| | - Ziwen Xiao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550009, China
| | - Bing Guo
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis & Drug Research on Common Chronic Diseases, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550009, China
| | - Shuyun Zhao
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou Province, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550009, China
| | - Guoqiang Xu
- Transformation Engineering Research Center of Chronic Disease Diagnosis and Treatment, Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550009, China
| | - Wei Pan
- Prenatal Diagnosis Center in Guizhou Province, the Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550009, China
| | - Tengxiang Chen
- Transformation Engineering Research Center of Chronic Disease Diagnosis and Treatment, Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550009, China
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis & Drug Research on Common Chronic Diseases, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550009, China
- Guizhou Institute of Precision Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550009, China
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7
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Deng X, Ning Z, Li L, Cui Z, Du X, Amevor FK, Tian Y, Shu G, Du X, Han X, Zhao X. High expression of miR-22-3p in chicken hierarchical follicles promotes granulosa cell proliferation, steroidogenesis, and lipid metabolism via PTEN/PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 253:127415. [PMID: 37848113 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.127415] [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: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/19/2023]
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of RNA macromolecules that play regulatory roles in follicle development by inhibiting protein translation through binding to the 3'UTR of its target genes. Granulosa cell (GC) proliferation, steroidogenesis, and lipid metabolism have indispensable effect during folliculogenesis. In this study, we found that miR-22-3p was highly expressed in the hierarchical follicles of the chickens, which indicated that it may be involved in follicle development. The results obtained suggested that miR-22-3p promoted proliferation, hormone secretion (progesterone and estrogen), and the content of lipid droplets (LDs) in the chicken primary GC. The results from the bioinformatics analysis, luciferase reporter assay, qRT-PCR, and Western blotting, confirmed that PTEN was directly targeted to miR-22-3p. Subsequently, it was revealed that PTEN inhibited proliferation, hormone secretion, and the content of LDs in GC. Therefore, this study showed that miR-22-3p could activate PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway via targeting PTEN. Taken together, the findings from this study indicated that miR-22-3p was highly expressed in the hierarchical follicles of chickens, which promotes GC proliferation, steroidogenesis, and lipid metabolism by repressing PTEN to activate PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xun Deng
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, PR China; Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal Science and Technology (Institute of Animal Genetics and Breeding), Sichuan Agricultural University, PR China
| | - Zifan Ning
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, PR China; Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal Science and Technology (Institute of Animal Genetics and Breeding), Sichuan Agricultural University, PR China
| | - Liang Li
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Guizhou Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Guiyang, PR China; Guizhou Hongyu Animal Husbandry Technology Development Co., Ltd, Guiyang, PR China
| | - Zhifu Cui
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Southwest University, Chongqing, PR China
| | - Xiaxia Du
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, PR China; Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal Science and Technology (Institute of Animal Genetics and Breeding), Sichuan Agricultural University, PR China
| | - Felix Kwame Amevor
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, PR China; Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal Science and Technology (Institute of Animal Genetics and Breeding), Sichuan Agricultural University, PR China
| | - Yaofu Tian
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, PR China; Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal Science and Technology (Institute of Animal Genetics and Breeding), Sichuan Agricultural University, PR China
| | - Gang Shu
- Department of Basic Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Xiaohui Du
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, PR China; Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal Science and Technology (Institute of Animal Genetics and Breeding), Sichuan Agricultural University, PR China
| | - Xue Han
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Guizhou Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Guiyang, PR China; Guizhou Hongyu Animal Husbandry Technology Development Co., Ltd, Guiyang, PR China.
| | - Xiaoling Zhao
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, PR China; Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal Science and Technology (Institute of Animal Genetics and Breeding), Sichuan Agricultural University, PR China.
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8
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Buigues A, Ramírez-Martin N, Martínez J, Pellicer N, Meseguer M, Pellicer A, Herraiz S. Systemic changes induced by autologous stem cell ovarian transplant in plasma proteome of women with impaired ovarian reserves. Aging (Albany NY) 2023; 15:14553-14573. [PMID: 38149997 PMCID: PMC10781467 DOI: 10.18632/aging.205400] [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: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 12/28/2023]
Abstract
Patients with poor ovarian response (POR) and premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) are challenging to treat, with oocyte donation remaining as the only feasible option to achieve pregnancy in some cases. The Autologous stem cell ovarian transplantation (ASCOT) technique allows follicle development, enabling pregnancies and births of healthy babies in these patients. Previous results suggest that growth factors and cytokines secreted by stem cells are partially responsible for their regenerative properties. Indeed, ASCOT beneficial effects associate with the presence of different bone marrow derived stem cell- secreted factors in plasma. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess whether ASCOT induce any modifications in the plasma proteomic profile of patients with impaired ovarian reserves. Discriminant analysis highlighted clear distinctions between the plasma proteome before (PRE), during stem cell mobilization and collection (APHERESIS) and three months after ASCOT (POST) in patients with POR and POI. Both the stem cell mobilization and ASCOT technique induced statistically significant modifications in the plasma composition, reversing some age-related protein expression changes. In the POR group, functional analysis revealed an enrichment in processes related to the complement cascade, immune system, and platelet degranulation, while in the POI group, enriched processes were also associated with responses to oxygen-containing compounds and growth hormones, and blood vessel maturation. In conclusion, our findings highlight the potential proteins and biological processes that may promote the follicle activation and growth observed after ASCOT. Identifying plasma proteins that regenerate aged or damaged ovaries could lead to more effective, targeted and/or preventive therapies for patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Buigues
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVI Foundation - Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia 46026, Spain
| | - Noelia Ramírez-Martin
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVI Foundation - Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia 46026, Spain
| | - Jessica Martínez
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVI Foundation - Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia 46026, Spain
| | - Nuria Pellicer
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVI Foundation - Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia 46026, Spain
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVIRMA Valencia, Valencia 46015, Spain
| | - Marcos Meseguer
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVI Foundation - Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia 46026, Spain
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVIRMA Valencia, Valencia 46015, Spain
| | - Antonio Pellicer
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVI Foundation - Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia 46026, Spain
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVIRMA Rome, Rome 00197, Italy
| | - Sonia Herraiz
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVI Foundation - Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia 46026, Spain
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9
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Ding X, Lv S, Guo Z, Gong X, Wang C, Zhang X, Meng K. Potential Therapeutic Options for Premature Ovarian Insufficiency: Experimental and Clinical Evidence. Reprod Sci 2023; 30:3428-3442. [PMID: 37460850 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-023-01300-1] [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: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 12/03/2023]
Abstract
Premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) is a condition in which a woman experiences premature decline in ovarian function before the age of 40 years, manifested by menstrual disorders, decreased fertility, and possibly postmenopausal symptoms such as insomnia, hot flashes, and osteoporosis, and is one of the predominant clinical syndromes leading to female infertility. Genetic, immunologic, iatrogenic and other factors, alone or in combination, have been reported to trigger POI, yet the etiology remains unknown in most cases. The main methods currently used clinically to ameliorate menopausal symptoms due to hypoestrogenemia in POI patients are hormone replacement therapy, while the primary methods available to address infertility in POI patients are oocyte donation and cryopreservation techniques, both of which have limitations to some degree. In recent years, researchers have continued to explore more efficient and safe therapies, and have achieved impressive results in preclinical trials. In this article, we will mainly review the three most popular therapies and their related signaling pathways published in the past ten years, with the aim of providing ideas for clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuechun Ding
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Birth Defect Research and Transformation of Shandong Province, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
- College of Second Clinical Medical, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
| | - Shenmin Lv
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Birth Defect Research and Transformation of Shandong Province, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
- College of Second Clinical Medical, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
| | - Zhipeng Guo
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Birth Defect Research and Transformation of Shandong Province, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
- College of Second Clinical Medical, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
| | - Xiaowei Gong
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Birth Defect Research and Transformation of Shandong Province, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
- College of Second Clinical Medical, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
| | - Caiqin Wang
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Birth Defect Research and Transformation of Shandong Province, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
- College of Second Clinical Medical, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
| | - Xiaoyan Zhang
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Birth Defect Research and Transformation of Shandong Province, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
- College of Basic Medicine, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
| | - Kai Meng
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Birth Defect Research and Transformation of Shandong Province, Jining Medical University, Jining, China.
- Lin He's Academician Workstation of New Medicine and Clinical Translation, Jining Medical University, Jining, China.
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10
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Albamonte MI, Vitullo AD. Preservation of fertility in female and male prepubertal patients diagnosed with cancer. J Assist Reprod Genet 2023; 40:2755-2767. [PMID: 37770817 PMCID: PMC10656407 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-023-02945-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Over the past two decades, the importance of fertility preservation has grown not only in the realm of medical and clinical patient care, but also in the field of basic and applied research in human reproduction. With advancements in cancer treatments resulting in higher rates of patient survival, it is crucial to consider the quality of life post-cure. Therefore, fertility preservation must be taken into account prior to antitumor treatments, as it can significantly impact a patient's future fertility. For postpubertal patients, gamete cryopreservation is the most commonly employed preservation strategy. However, for prepubertal patients, the situation is more intricate. Presently, ovarian tissue cryopreservation is the standard practice for prepubertal girls, but further scientific evidence is required in several aspects. Testicular tissue cryopreservation, on the other hand, is still experimental for prepubertal boys. The primary aim of this review is to address the strategies available for possible fertility preservation in prepubertal girls and boys, such as ovarian cryopreservation/transplantation, in vitro follicle culture and meiotic maturation, artificial ovary, transplantation of cryopreserved spermatogonia, and cryopreservation/grafting of immature testicular tissue and testicular organoids.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Itatí Albamonte
- Centro de Estudios Biomédicos Básicos, Aplicados y Desarrollo (CEBBAD), Universidad Maimónides, Hidalgo 775, C1405BCK, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Alfredo D Vitullo
- Centro de Estudios Biomédicos Básicos, Aplicados y Desarrollo (CEBBAD), Universidad Maimónides, Hidalgo 775, C1405BCK, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina.
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11
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Khunmanee S, Yoo J, Lee JR, Lee J, Park H. Thiol-yne click crosslink hyaluronic acid/chitosan hydrogel for three-dimensional in vitro follicle development. Mater Today Bio 2023; 23:100867. [PMID: 38179228 PMCID: PMC10765241 DOI: 10.1016/j.mtbio.2023.100867] [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: 07/11/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024] Open
Abstract
There is a great deal of potential for in vitro follicle growth to provide an alternative approach to fertility preservation. This strategy reduces the possibility of cancer cells re-exposure after transplantation, and it does not require hormone stimulation. Adopting a three-dimensional (3D) culture method helps preserve the architecture of the follicle and promotes the maturity of oocytes. In order to maintain follicle morphology, enhance the quality of mature oocytes, and facilitate meiotic spindle assembly, the current work aimed to develop the 3D in vitro preantral mouse follicle culture method. Thiolated chitosan-co-thiolated hyaluronic (CSHS) hydrogel was designed to evaluate the effects of biomaterials on ovarian follicle development. Isolated follicles from mouse ovaries were randomly divided into alginate (Alg) as a 3D control, thiolated hyaluronic acid (HASH), and CSHS groups. Single follicle was encapsulated in each hydrogel, and performed for 10 days and subsequently ovulated to retrieve mature oocytes on day 11. CSHS hydrogel promoted follicle survival and oocyte viability with maintained spherical morphology of follicle. Matured oocytes with normal appearance of meiotic spindle and chromosome alignment were higher in the CSHS group compared with those in the Alg and HASH groups. Furthermore, CSHS increased expression level of folliculogenesis genes (TGFβ-1, GDF-9) and endocrine-related genes (LHCGR, and FSHR). With various experimental setups and clinical applications, this platform could be applied as an alternative method to in vitro follicle culture with different experimental designs and clinical applications in the long-term period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sureerat Khunmanee
- Department of Integrative Engineering, Chung-Ang University, 221 Heukseok-Dong, Dongjak-Gu, Seoul, 06974, Republic of Korea
| | - Jungyoung Yoo
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, Eulji University, Gyeonggi-do, 13135, Republic of Korea
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam-si, Gyeonggi-do, 13620, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung Ryeol Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam-si, Gyeonggi-do, 13620, Republic of Korea
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Jaewang Lee
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, Eulji University, Gyeonggi-do, 13135, Republic of Korea
| | - Hansoo Park
- Department of Integrative Engineering, Chung-Ang University, 221 Heukseok-Dong, Dongjak-Gu, Seoul, 06974, Republic of Korea
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12
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Martirosyan YO, Silachev DN, Nazarenko TA, Birukova AM, Vishnyakova PA, Sukhikh GT. Stem-Cell-Derived Extracellular Vesicles: Unlocking New Possibilities for Treating Diminished Ovarian Reserve and Premature Ovarian Insufficiency. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:2247. [PMID: 38137848 PMCID: PMC10744991 DOI: 10.3390/life13122247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 11/18/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite advancements in assisted reproductive technology (ART), achieving successful pregnancy rates remains challenging. Diminished ovarian reserve and premature ovarian insufficiency hinder IVF success-about 20% of in vitro fertilization (IVF) patients face a poor prognosis due to a low response, leading to higher cancellations and reduced birth rates. In an attempt to address the issue of premature ovarian insufficiency (POI), we conducted systematic PubMed and Web of Science research, using keywords "stem cells", "extracellular vesicles", "premature ovarian insufficiency", "diminished ovarian reserve" and "exosomes". Amid the complex ovarian dynamics and challenges like POI, stem cell therapy and particularly the use of extracellular vesicles (EVs), a great potential is shown. EVs trigger paracrine mechanisms via microRNAs and bioactive molecules, suppressing apoptosis, stimulating angiogenesis and activating latent regenerative potential. Key microRNAs influence estrogen secretion, proliferation and apoptosis resistance. Extracellular vesicles present a lot of possibilities for treating infertility, and understanding their molecular mechanisms is crucial for maximizing EVs' therapeutic potential in addressing ovarian disorders and promoting reproductive health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yana O. Martirosyan
- V.I. Kulakov National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics Gynecology and Perinatology, Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, 117997 Moscow, Russia; (T.A.N.); (A.M.B.); (P.A.V.); (G.T.S.)
| | - Denis N. Silachev
- V.I. Kulakov National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics Gynecology and Perinatology, Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, 117997 Moscow, Russia; (T.A.N.); (A.M.B.); (P.A.V.); (G.T.S.)
- Department of Functional Biochemistry of Biopolymers, A.N. Belozersky Research Institute of Physico-Chemical Biology, Moscow State University, 119992 Moscow, Russia
| | - Tatiana A. Nazarenko
- V.I. Kulakov National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics Gynecology and Perinatology, Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, 117997 Moscow, Russia; (T.A.N.); (A.M.B.); (P.A.V.); (G.T.S.)
| | - Almina M. Birukova
- V.I. Kulakov National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics Gynecology and Perinatology, Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, 117997 Moscow, Russia; (T.A.N.); (A.M.B.); (P.A.V.); (G.T.S.)
| | - Polina A. Vishnyakova
- V.I. Kulakov National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics Gynecology and Perinatology, Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, 117997 Moscow, Russia; (T.A.N.); (A.M.B.); (P.A.V.); (G.T.S.)
- Research Institute of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia (RUDN University), 117198 Moscow, Russia
| | - Gennadiy T. Sukhikh
- V.I. Kulakov National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics Gynecology and Perinatology, Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, 117997 Moscow, Russia; (T.A.N.); (A.M.B.); (P.A.V.); (G.T.S.)
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13
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Zafardoust S, Kazemnejad S, Fathi-Kazerooni M, Darzi M, Sadeghi MR, Sadeghi Tabar A, Sehat Z. The effects of intraovarian injection of autologous menstrual blood-derived mesenchymal stromal cells on pregnancy outcomes in women with poor ovarian response. Stem Cell Res Ther 2023; 14:332. [PMID: 37968668 PMCID: PMC10647057 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-023-03568-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Assisted reproduction faces a significant obstacle in the form of poor ovarian response (POR) to controlled ovarian stimulation. To address this challenge, mesenchymal stem cell therapy has been proposed as a potential treatment for female infertility and/or restoration of ovarian function in POR women. Our previous research has demonstrated that menstrual blood-derived-mesenchymal stromal cells (MenSCs) injected into the ovaries of women with POR can increase pregnancy rates. The objective of this study was to examine whether MenSC therapy could enhance ovarian reserve parameters and pregnancy outcomes in a larger population of individuals with POR. METHOD This study consisted of 180 infertile individuals with POR who declined oocyte donation. Participants were divided into two groups: those who received bilateral MenSCs intraovarian injection and those who received no intervention. Our primary aim was to compare the rates of spontaneous pregnancy between the two groups, followed by an investigation of any alterations in the ovarian reserve parameters, such as serum FSH, AMH, and AFC levels, as well as the ICSI/IVF outcomes, in both groups of participants. RESULTS The MenSC therapy exhibited a favourable tolerability profile and did not raise any safety concerns. Following the 2-month follow-up period, women who received MenSC treatment demonstrated a significantly higher rate of spontaneous pregnancy (P < 0.005) and an improvement in anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) levels (P = 0.0007) and antral follicle count (AFC) (P < 0.001), whereas the control group demonstrated a considerable decline in these parameters (Both P < 0.001). The MenSC therapy led to a greater number of mature oocytes and embryos among women who underwent ICSI/IVF. Our age subgroup analysis demonstrated a significant difference in the number of spontaneous pregnancies and ICSI/IVF outcomes between the treatment and control groups only among individuals below 40 years of age. CONCLUSION The results of our study indicate that MenSCs treatment may be a viable option for treating women experiencing POR. However, in order to be widely implemented in clinical practice, the clinical effectiveness of MenSCs therapy will need to be established through rigorous prospective randomized clinical trials. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05703308. Registered 01/26/2023, retrospectively registered, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05703308 . IRCT, IRCT20180619040147N4. Registered 08/01/2020.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simin Zafardoust
- Nanobiotechnology Research Center, Avicenna Research Institute, ACECR, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Somaieh Kazemnejad
- Nanobiotechnology Research Center, Avicenna Research Institute, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Maryam Darzi
- Avicenna Fertility Clinic, Avicenna Research Institute, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Sadeghi
- Reproductive Biotechnology Research Center, Avicenna Research Institute, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Sadeghi Tabar
- Monoclonal Antibody Research Center, Avicenna Research Institute, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Sehat
- Avicenna Fertility Clinic, Avicenna Research Institute, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
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14
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Rojas-Guerra G, Dipaz-Berrocal D, Mellisho E. PTEN inhibitor and kit ligand increase in vitro activation and survival of primordial follicles in alpaca. Anat Histol Embryol 2023; 52:1010-1015. [PMID: 37694739 DOI: 10.1111/ahe.12961] [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: 01/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
In mammals, activation of primordial follicles to primary follicle is a progressive and highly regulated process. There is evidence in mice that phosphatase and tensin homologue deleted on Chromosome 10 (PTEN) silencing is an important negative regulator of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K), which initiates activation of dormant follicles. The objective of the study was to evaluate the effect of the addition of PTEN inhibitor (bpV(HOpic)) (10 μM) and/or Kit Ligand (KL) (100 ng/mL) on the in vitro activation and survival of alpaca primordial follicles. Ovarian cortical fragments from 11 adult alpacas were cultured for 24 h in tissue culture medium (α-MEM+ ) supplemented with KL and bpV or the association of both. Subsequently, each sample was processed by classical histology and follicular counting and classification were performed. The results obtained show a reduction (p < 0.05) of primordial follicles in more than 50% in follicular tissue cultured in vitro in α-MEM+ or supplemented with bpV and/or KL versus the control (not cultured). Further, >25% increase in primary follicles in follicular tissue cultured in vitro in α-MEM+ or supplemented with KL and/or bpV versus control. However, the follicular survival rate showed a decrease of 20% in the cultured tissues, except for the α-MEM+ supplemented with KL and bpV. In conclusion, supplementation of bpV (HOpic) (10 μM) and KL (100 ng/mL) increased the activation in vitro of primordial follicles and survival after in vitro culture of alpaca ovarian tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gonzalo Rojas-Guerra
- Histology and Cytology Laboratory, Centro de Investigación en Tecnología de Embriones, Universidad Nacional Agraria La Molina, Lima, Peru
| | - Deysi Dipaz-Berrocal
- Histology and Cytology Laboratory, Centro de Investigación en Tecnología de Embriones, Universidad Nacional Agraria La Molina, Lima, Peru
| | - Edwin Mellisho
- Histology and Cytology Laboratory, Centro de Investigación en Tecnología de Embriones, Universidad Nacional Agraria La Molina, Lima, Peru
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15
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Canosa S, Revelli A, Gennarelli G, Cormio G, Loizzi V, Arezzo F, Petracca EA, Carosso AR, Cimadomo D, Rienzi L, Vaiarelli A, Ubaldi FM, Silvestris E. Innovative Strategies for Fertility Preservation in Female Cancer Survivors: New Hope from Artificial Ovary Construction and Stem Cell-Derived Neo-Folliculogenesis. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:2748. [PMID: 37893822 PMCID: PMC10606281 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11202748] [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: 08/22/2023] [Revised: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent advances in anticancer treatment have significantly improved the survival rate of young females; unfortunately, in about one third of cancer survivors the risk of ovarian insufficiency and infertility is still quite relevant. As the possibility of becoming a mother after recovery from a juvenile cancer is an important part of the quality of life, several procedures to preserve fertility have been developed: ovarian surgical transposition, induction of ovarian quiescence by gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists (GnRH-a) treatment, and oocyte and/or ovarian cortical tissue cryopreservation. Ovarian tissue cryostorage and allografting is a valuable technique that applies even to prepubertal girls; however, some patients cannot benefit from it due to the high risk of reintroducing cancer cells during allograft in cases of ovary-metastasizing neoplasias, such as leukemias or NH lymphomas. Innovative techniques are now under investigation, as in the construction of an artificial ovary made of isolated follicles inserted into an artificial matrix scaffold, and the use of stem cells, including ovarian stem cells (OSCs), to obtain neo-folliculogenesis and the development of fertilizable oocytes from the exhausted ovarian tissue. This review synthesizes and discusses these innovative techniques, which potentially represent interesting strategies in oncofertility programs and a new hope for young female cancer survivors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Canosa
- IVIRMA, Global Research Alliance, LIVET, 10126 Turin, Italy; (A.R.); (G.G.)
| | - Alberto Revelli
- IVIRMA, Global Research Alliance, LIVET, 10126 Turin, Italy; (A.R.); (G.G.)
- Gynecology and Obstetrics 2U, Department of Surgical Sciences, S. Anna Hospital, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - Gianluca Gennarelli
- IVIRMA, Global Research Alliance, LIVET, 10126 Turin, Italy; (A.R.); (G.G.)
- Gynecology and Obstetrics 1U, Physiopathology of Reproduction and IVF Unit, Department of Surgical Sciences, S. Anna Hospital, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy;
| | - Gennaro Cormio
- Gynecologic Oncology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (G.C.); (V.L.); (E.A.P.); (E.S.)
- Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine (DIM), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70121 Bari, Italy
| | - Vera Loizzi
- Gynecologic Oncology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (G.C.); (V.L.); (E.A.P.); (E.S.)
- Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine (DIM), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70121 Bari, Italy
| | - Francesca Arezzo
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Easter Anna Petracca
- Gynecologic Oncology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (G.C.); (V.L.); (E.A.P.); (E.S.)
| | - Andrea Roberto Carosso
- Gynecology and Obstetrics 1U, Physiopathology of Reproduction and IVF Unit, Department of Surgical Sciences, S. Anna Hospital, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy;
| | - Danilo Cimadomo
- IVIRMA, Global Research Alliance, GENERA, Clinica Valle Giulia, 00197 Rome, Italy; (D.C.); (L.R.); (A.V.); (F.M.U.)
| | - Laura Rienzi
- IVIRMA, Global Research Alliance, GENERA, Clinica Valle Giulia, 00197 Rome, Italy; (D.C.); (L.R.); (A.V.); (F.M.U.)
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino “Carlo Bo”, 61029 Urbino, Italy
| | - Alberto Vaiarelli
- IVIRMA, Global Research Alliance, GENERA, Clinica Valle Giulia, 00197 Rome, Italy; (D.C.); (L.R.); (A.V.); (F.M.U.)
| | - Filippo Maria Ubaldi
- IVIRMA, Global Research Alliance, GENERA, Clinica Valle Giulia, 00197 Rome, Italy; (D.C.); (L.R.); (A.V.); (F.M.U.)
| | - Erica Silvestris
- Gynecologic Oncology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (G.C.); (V.L.); (E.A.P.); (E.S.)
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Marchante M, Ramirez-Martin N, Buigues A, Martinez J, Pellicer N, Pellicer A, Herraiz S. Deciphering reproductive aging in women using a NOD/SCID mouse model for distinct physiological ovarian phenotypes. Aging (Albany NY) 2023; 15:10856-10874. [PMID: 37847151 PMCID: PMC10637815 DOI: 10.18632/aging.205086] [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: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023]
Abstract
Female fertility is negatively correlated with age, with noticeable declines in oocyte quantity and quality until menopause. To understand this physiological process and evaluate human approaches for treating age-related infertility, preclinical studies in appropriate animal models are needed. Thus, we aimed to characterize an immunodeficient physiological aging mouse model displaying ovarian characteristics of different stages during women's reproductive life. NOD/SCID mice of different ages (8-, 28-, and 36-40-week-old) were employed to mimic ovarian phenotypes of young, Advanced Maternal Age (AMA), and old women (~18-20-, ~36-38-, and >45-years-old, respectively). Mice were stimulated, mated, and sacrificed to recover oocytes and embryos. Then, ovarian reserve, follicular growth, ovarian stroma, mitochondrial dysfunction, and proteomic profiles were assessed. Age-matched C57BL/6 mice were employed to cross-validate the reproductive outcomes. The quantity and quality of oocytes were decreased in AMA and Old mice. These age-related effects associated spindle and chromosome abnormalities, along with decreased developmental competence to blastocyst stage. Old mice had less follicles, impaired follicle activation and growth, an ovarian stroma inconducive to growth, and increased mitochondrial dysfunctions. Proteomic analysis corroborated these histological findings. Based on that, NOD/SCID mice can be used to model different ovarian aging phenotypes and potentially test human anti-aging treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Marchante
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVI Foundation, Valencia 46026, Spain
- Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, University of Valencia, Valencia 46010, Spain
| | - Noelia Ramirez-Martin
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVI Foundation, Valencia 46026, Spain
- Reproductive Medicine Research Group, Instituto Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia 46026, Spain
| | - Anna Buigues
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVI Foundation, Valencia 46026, Spain
- Reproductive Medicine Research Group, Instituto Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia 46026, Spain
| | - Jessica Martinez
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVI Foundation, Valencia 46026, Spain
- Reproductive Medicine Research Group, Instituto Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia 46026, Spain
| | - Nuria Pellicer
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVI Foundation, Valencia 46026, Spain
- IVIRMA Valencia, Valencia 46015, Spain
| | - Antonio Pellicer
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVI Foundation, Valencia 46026, Spain
- Reproductive Medicine Research Group, Instituto Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia 46026, Spain
- IVIRMA Rome, Rome 00197, Italy
| | - Sonia Herraiz
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVI Foundation, Valencia 46026, Spain
- Reproductive Medicine Research Group, Instituto Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia 46026, Spain
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17
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Telfer EE, Grosbois J, Odey YL, Rosario R, Anderson RA. Making a good egg: human oocyte health, aging, and in vitro development. Physiol Rev 2023; 103:2623-2677. [PMID: 37171807 PMCID: PMC10625843 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00032.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Revised: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Mammalian eggs (oocytes) are formed during fetal life and establish associations with somatic cells to form primordial follicles that create a store of germ cells (the primordial pool). The size of this pool is influenced by key events during the formation of germ cells and by factors that influence the subsequent activation of follicle growth. These regulatory pathways must ensure that the reserve of oocytes within primordial follicles in humans lasts for up to 50 years, yet only approximately 0.1% will ever be ovulated with the rest undergoing degeneration. This review outlines the mechanisms and regulatory pathways that govern the processes of oocyte and follicle formation and later growth, within the ovarian stroma, through to ovulation with particular reference to human oocytes/follicles. In addition, the effects of aging on female reproductive capacity through changes in oocyte number and quality are emphasized, with both the cellular mechanisms and clinical implications discussed. Finally, the details of current developments in culture systems that support all stages of follicle growth to generate mature oocytes in vitro and emerging prospects for making new oocytes from stem cells are outlined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evelyn E Telfer
- Institute of Cell Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Johanne Grosbois
- Institute of Cell Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Yvonne L Odey
- Institute of Cell Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Roseanne Rosario
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, Queens Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Richard A Anderson
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, Queens Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
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18
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Chang CL. Facilitation of Ovarian Response by Mechanical Force-Latest Insight on Fertility Improvement in Women with Poor Ovarian Response or Primary Ovarian Insufficiency. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14751. [PMID: 37834198 PMCID: PMC10573075 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241914751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The decline in fertility in aging women, especially those with poor ovarian response (POR) or primary ovarian insufficiency (POI), is a major concern for modern IVF centers. Fertility treatments have traditionally relied on gonadotropin- and steroid-hormone-based IVF practices, but these methods have limitations, especially for women with aging ovaries. Researchers have been motivated to explore alternative approaches. Ovarian aging is a complicated process, and the deterioration of oocytes, follicular cells, the extracellular matrix (ECM), and the stromal compartment can all contribute to declining fertility. Adjunct interventions that involve the use of hormones, steroids, and cofactors and gamete engineering are two major research areas aimed to improve fertility in aging women. Additionally, mechanical procedures including the In Vitro Activation (IVA) procedure, which combines pharmacological activators and fragmentation of ovarian strips, and the Whole Ovary Laparoscopic Incision (WOLI) procedure that solely relies on mechanical manipulation in vivo have shown promising results in improving follicle growth and fertility in women with POR and POI. Advances in the use of mechanical procedures have brought exciting opportunities to improve fertility outcomes in aging women with POR or POI. While the lack of a comprehensive understanding of the molecular mechanisms that lead to fertility decline in aging women remains a major challenge for further improvement of mechanical-manipulation-based approaches, recent progress has provided a better view of how these procedures promote folliculogenesis in the fibrotic and avascular aging ovaries. In this review, we first provide a brief overview of the potential mechanisms that contribute to ovarian aging in POI and POR patients, followed by a discussion of measures that aim to improve ovarian folliculogenesis in aging women. At last, we discuss the likely mechanisms that contribute to the outcomes of IVA and WOLI procedures and potential future directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chia Lin Chang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital Linkou Medical Center, Chang Gung University, Guishan, Taoyuan 33305, Taiwan
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19
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Albamonte MI, Calabró LY, Albamonte MS, Vitullo AD. FOXO3 and PTEN expression in the ovary of girls with extra-gonadal cancer with or without chemotherapy treatment prior to cryopreservation. BMC Womens Health 2023; 23:509. [PMID: 37737182 PMCID: PMC10515424 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-023-02648-x] [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: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND FOXO3/pFOXO3 and PTEN expression is known to regulate the dormancy/activation of ovarian primordial follicles. How chemotherapy could influence the expression of FOXO3 and PTEN in pre- and post-menarcheal girls with extra-gonadal cancer remains unexplored. METHODS Ovarian samples were collected from 27 girls suffering from extra-gonadal cancer. Of these, 8 patients had received chemotherapy before the time of sample collection. Ovarian tissue collected at the time of surgery was fixed in 10% formaldehyde for FOXO3/pFOXO3 and PTEN immunohistochemistry or immunofluorescence, or stored at -80 °C for Western blot, or preserved in RNA later for RT-PCR. RESULTS PTEN was detected in a limited number of primordial follicle-enclosed oocytes in approximately fifty percent of the patients, regardless of whether they had received anti-cancer treatment or not. However, there was a significant decrease in PTEN detection in patients who underwent chemotherapy treatment prior to the retrieval of the sample. Both primordial follicle-enclosed oocytes that expressed FOXO3 and those that did not were identified in patients who were treated with chemotherapy and those who were not. FOXO3-positive primordial follicles exhibited either nuclear FOXO3 localization or cytoplasmic pFOXO3 localization. Furthermore, transitional primordial follicles that expressed nuclear FOXO3 and cytoplasmic pFOXO3 were also observed. Primary follicle-enclosed oocytes displayed cytoplasmic pFOXO3 localization, whereas in more advanced stages of folliculogenesis, the expression moved to the somatic stratum. No significant statistical differences were identified in the detection of FOXO3 and pFOXO3 in patients who had or had not received chemotherapy prior to sample collection. CONCLUSION Primordial follicles expressing and not expressing FOXO3 were equally present in both the ovaries of patients who underwent chemotherapy and those who did not. The expression of FOXO3 remained unaltered in response to chemotherapy treatment. Notably, the detection of PTEN was significantly reduced in the treated patients, thereby warranting in-depth investigation, given the limited sample size examined in the present study.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Itatí Albamonte
- Centro de Estudios Biomédicos Básicos, Aplicados y Desarrollo -CEBBAD, Universidad Maimónides, Hidalgo 775, C1405BCK, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Lara Y Calabró
- Centro de Estudios Biomédicos Básicos, Aplicados y Desarrollo -CEBBAD, Universidad Maimónides, Hidalgo 775, C1405BCK, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Mirta S Albamonte
- Centro de Estudios Biomédicos Básicos, Aplicados y Desarrollo -CEBBAD, Universidad Maimónides, Hidalgo 775, C1405BCK, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Alfredo D Vitullo
- Centro de Estudios Biomédicos Básicos, Aplicados y Desarrollo -CEBBAD, Universidad Maimónides, Hidalgo 775, C1405BCK, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
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20
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Lopez J, Hohensee G, Liang J, Sela M, Johnson J, Kallen AN. The Aging Ovary and the Tales Learned Since Fetal Development. Sex Dev 2023; 17:156-168. [PMID: 37598664 PMCID: PMC10841896 DOI: 10.1159/000532072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND While the term "aging" implies a process typically associated with later life, the consequences of ovarian aging are evident by the time a woman reaches her forties, and sometimes earlier. This is due to a gradual decline in the quantity and quality of oocytes which occurs over a woman's reproductive lifespan. Indeed, the reproductive potential of the ovary is established even before birth, as the proper formation and assembly of the ovarian germ cell population during fetal life determines the lifetime endowment of oocytes and follicles. In the ovary, sophisticated molecular processes have been identified that regulate the timing of ovarian aging and these are critical to ensuring follicular maintenance. SUMMARY The mechanisms thought to contribute to overall aging have been summarized under the term the "hallmarks of aging" and include such processes as DNA damage, mitochondrial dysfunction, telomere attrition, genomic instability, and stem cell exhaustion, among others. Similarly, in the ovary, molecular processes have been identified that regulate the timing of ovarian aging and these are critical to ensuring follicular maintenance. In this review, we outline critical processes involved in ovarian aging, highlight major achievements for treatment of ovarian aging, and discuss ongoing questions and areas of debate. KEY MESSAGES Ovarian aging is recognized as what may be a complex process in which age, genetics, environment, and many other factors contribute to the size and depletion of the follicle pool. The putative hallmarks of reproductive aging outlined herein include a diversity of plausible processes contributing to the depletion of the ovarian reserve. More research is needed to clarify if and to what extent these putative regulators do in fact govern follicle and oocyte behavior, and how these signals might be integrated in order to control the overall pattern of ovarian aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesus Lopez
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Gabe Hohensee
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Jing Liang
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Meirav Sela
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Joshua Johnson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Amanda N. Kallen
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
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Wang X, Zhou S, Wu Z, Liu R, Ran Z, Liao J, Shi H, Wang F, Chen J, Liu G, Liang A, Yang L, Zhang S, Li X, He C. The FSH-mTOR-CNP signaling axis initiates follicular antrum formation by regulating tight junction, ion pumps, and aquaporins. J Biol Chem 2023; 299:105015. [PMID: 37414146 PMCID: PMC10424218 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2023.105015] [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: 03/30/2023] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The initial formation of the follicular antrum (iFFA) serves as a dividing line between gonadotropin-independent and gonadotropin-dependent folliculogenesis, enabling the follicle to sensitively respond to gonadotropins for its further development. However, the mechanism underlying iFFA remains elusive. Herein, we reported that iFFA is characterized by enhanced fluid absorption, energy consumption, secretion, and proliferation and shares a regulatory mechanism with blastula cavity formation. By use of bioinformatics analysis, follicular culture, RNA interference, and other techniques, we further demonstrated that the tight junction, ion pumps, and aquaporins are essential for follicular fluid accumulation during iFFA, as a deficiency of any one of these negatively impacts fluid accumulation and antrum formation. The intraovarian mammalian target of rapamycin-C-type natriuretic peptide pathway, activated by follicle-stimulating hormone, initiated iFFA by activating tight junction, ion pumps, and aquaporins. Building on this, we promoted iFFA by transiently activating mammalian target of rapamycin in cultured follicles and significantly increased oocyte yield. These findings represent a significant advancement in iFFA research, further enhancing our understanding of folliculogenesis in mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaodong Wang
- National Center for International Research on Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction/Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Sciences and Technology/Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Shanshan Zhou
- National Center for International Research on Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction/Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Sciences and Technology/Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Zian Wu
- National Center for International Research on Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction/Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Sciences and Technology/Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Ruiyan Liu
- National Center for International Research on Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction/Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Sciences and Technology/Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Zaohong Ran
- National Center for International Research on Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction/Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Sciences and Technology/Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Jianning Liao
- National Center for International Research on Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction/Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Sciences and Technology/Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Hongru Shi
- National Center for International Research on Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction/Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Sciences and Technology/Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Feng Wang
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Cancer Biology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, USA
| | - Jianguo Chen
- National Center for International Research on Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction/Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Sciences and Technology/Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Guoshi Liu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Aixin Liang
- National Center for International Research on Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction/Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Sciences and Technology/Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Liguo Yang
- National Center for International Research on Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction/Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Sciences and Technology/Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Shujun Zhang
- National Center for International Research on Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction/Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Sciences and Technology/Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiang Li
- National Center for International Research on Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction/Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Sciences and Technology/Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Changjiu He
- National Center for International Research on Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction/Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Sciences and Technology/Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China.
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Wang Y, Pattarawat P, Zhang J, Kim E, Zhang D, Fang M, Jannaman EA, Yuan Y, Chatterjee S, Kim JYJ, Scott GI, Zhang Q, Xiao S. Effects of Cyanobacterial Harmful Algal Bloom Toxin Microcystin-LR on Gonadotropin-Dependent Ovarian Follicle Maturation and Ovulation in Mice. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2023; 131:67010. [PMID: 37342990 PMCID: PMC10284350 DOI: 10.1289/ehp12034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Revised: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cyanobacterial harmful algal blooms (CyanoHABs) originate from the excessive growth or bloom of cyanobacteria often referred to as blue-green algae. They have been on the rise globally in both marine and freshwaters in recently years with increasing frequency and severity owing to the rising temperature associated with climate change and increasing anthropogenic eutrophication from agricultural runoff and urbanization. Humans are at a great risk of exposure to toxins released from CyanoHABs through drinking water, food, and recreational activities, making CyanoHAB toxins a new class of contaminants of emerging concern. OBJECTIVES We investigated the toxic effects and mechanisms of microcystin-LR (MC-LR), the most prevalent CyanoHAB toxin, on the ovary and associated reproductive functions. METHODS Mouse models with either chronic daily oral or acute intraperitoneal exposure, an engineered three-dimensional ovarian follicle culture system, and human primary ovarian granulosa cells were tested with MC-LR of various dose levels. Single-follicle RNA sequencing, reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, western blotting, immunohistochemistry (IHC), and benchmark dose modeling were used to examine the effects of MC-LR on follicle maturation, hormone secretion, ovulation, and luteinization. RESULTS Mice exposed long term to low-dose MC-LR did not exhibit any differences in the kinetics of folliculogenesis, but they had significantly fewer corpora lutea compared with control mice. Superovulation models further showed that mice exposed to MC-LR during the follicle maturation window had significantly fewer ovulated oocytes. IHC results revealed ovarian distribution of MC-LR, and mice exposed to MC-LR had significantly lower expression of key follicle maturation mediators. Mechanistically, in both murine and human granulosa cells exposed to MC-LR, there was reduced protein phosphatase 1 (PP1) activity, disrupted PP1-mediated PI3K/AKT/FOXO1 signaling, and less expression of follicle maturation-related genes. DISCUSSION Using both in vivo and in vitro murine and human model systems, we provide data suggesting that environmentally relevant exposure to the CyanoHAB toxin MC-LR interfered with gonadotropin-dependent follicle maturation and ovulation. We conclude that MC-LR may pose a nonnegligible risk to women's reproductive health by heightening the probability of irregular menstrual cycles and infertility related to ovulatory disorders. https://doi.org/10.1289/EHP12034.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingzheng Wang
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
- National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences Center for Oceans and Human Health and Climate Change Interactions at the University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
- Center for Environmental Exposures and Disease, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Pawat Pattarawat
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Jiyang Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Eunchong Kim
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Delong Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Mingzhu Fang
- New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, Trenton, New Jersey, USA
| | | | - Ye Yuan
- Colorado Center for Reproductive Medicine, Lone Tree, Colorado, USA
| | - Saurabh Chatterjee
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, California, USA
- Division of Infectious Disease, Department of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, California, USA
| | - Ji-Yong Julie Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Geoffrey I. Scott
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
- National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences Center for Oceans and Human Health and Climate Change Interactions at the University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
| | - Qiang Zhang
- Gangarosa Department of Environmental Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Shuo Xiao
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
- National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences Center for Oceans and Human Health and Climate Change Interactions at the University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
- Center for Environmental Exposures and Disease, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
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23
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Wu GMJ, Chen ACH, Yeung WSB, Lee YL. Current progress on in vitro differentiation of ovarian follicles from pluripotent stem cells. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1166351. [PMID: 37325555 PMCID: PMC10267358 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1166351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Mammalian female reproduction requires a functional ovary. Competence of the ovary is determined by the quality of its basic unit-ovarian follicles. A normal follicle consists of an oocyte enclosed within ovarian follicular cells. In humans and mice, the ovarian follicles are formed at the foetal and the early neonatal stage respectively, and their renewal at the adult stage is controversial. Extensive research emerges recently to produce ovarian follicles in-vitro from different species. Previous reports demonstrated the differentiation of mouse and human pluripotent stem cells into germline cells, termed primordial germ cell-like cells (PGCLCs). The germ cell-specific gene expressions and epigenetic features including global DNA demethylation and histone modifications of the pluripotent stem cells-derived PGCLCs were extensively characterized. The PGCLCs hold potential for forming ovarian follicles or organoids upon cocultured with ovarian somatic cells. Intriguingly, the oocytes isolated from the organoids could be fertilized in-vitro. Based on the knowledge of in-vivo derived pre-granulosa cells, the generation of these cells from pluripotent stem cells termed foetal ovarian somatic cell-like cells was also reported recently. Despite successful in-vitro folliculogenesis from pluripotent stem cells, the efficiency remains low, mainly due to the lack of information on the interaction between PGCLCs and pre-granulosa cells. The establishment of in-vitro pluripotent stem cell-based models paves the way for understanding the critical signalling pathways and molecules during folliculogenesis. This article aims to review the developmental events during in-vivo follicular development and discuss the current progress of generation of PGCLCs, pre-granulosa and theca cells in-vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Genie Min Ju Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Clinical Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Andy Chun Hang Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Clinical Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Reproductive Medicine Center, The University of Hong Kong—Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
- Centre for Translational Stem Cell Biology, The Hong Kong Science and Technology Park, Hong Kong, China
| | - William Shu Biu Yeung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Clinical Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Reproductive Medicine Center, The University of Hong Kong—Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
- Centre for Translational Stem Cell Biology, The Hong Kong Science and Technology Park, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yin Lau Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Clinical Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Reproductive Medicine Center, The University of Hong Kong—Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
- Centre for Translational Stem Cell Biology, The Hong Kong Science and Technology Park, Hong Kong, China
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Su C, Zhang R, Zhang X, Lv M, Liu X, Ao K, Hao J, Mu YL. Dingkun Pill modulate ovarian function in chemotherapy-induced premature ovarian insufficiency mice by regulating PTEN/PI3K/AKT/FOXO3a signaling pathway. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2023:116703. [PMID: 37257704 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.116703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Revised: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Dingkun Pill (DKP) is a traditional Chinese medicine that has been shown to have beneficial effects on reproductive function. However, the specific mechanism underlying its effect on POI is not well understood. AIM OF THE STUDY To investigate the effect of different doses of Dingkun Pill on ovarian function in cyclophosphamide (CTX)-induced premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) mice and to explore its molecular mechanism through PTEN/PI3K/AKT/FOXO3a signaling pathway. This study will provide valuable insights into the potential clinical application of Dingkun Pill for the treatment of POI. MATERIALS AND METHODS Fifty female ICR mice were randomly divided into normal control (NC) group, model control (MC) group, and Dingkun Pill low, medium, high dose (DKP-L, M, H) groups. Mice were injected with CTX to construct the POI model. Mice in the DKP-L, M, and H groups were given 0.9 g/kg, 1.8 g/kg, and 3.6 g/kg of Dingkun Pill suspension for 21 days, respectively. Mice in the NC and MC groups were given the same amount of normal saline by gavage. Changes in body weight, estrous cycle and gonadal index were observed in each group of mice. Serum levels of FSH, LH, E2 and AMH were detected by ELISA. Hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining observed the changes of ovarian pathological morphology and follicle counts at all levels. qRT-PCR was used to measure the levels of the PTEN and FOXO3a genes in ovarian tissue. The expression of PTEN/PI3K/AKT/FOXO3a signaling pathway related proteins were detected by Western-blot and immunohistochemistry(IHC). RESULTS In POI mice, Dingkun Pill increased body weight, promoted the recovery of estrous cycle, increased ovarian index, and improved pathological morphology of the ovaries. The FSH level decreased in the medium dose group (P < 0.05), the LH level reduced significantly in the medium and high dose groups (P < 0.01), and the E2 level in the high dose group increased (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in AMH levels across all dose groups. The number of growing follicles improved at all levels in the low and medium dose groups, but declined significantly in the high dose group. However, the number of corpus luteum increased significantly in the high dose group (P < 0.001), and the atretic follicles in the three dose groups decreased. Results from qRT-PCR, Western-blot and IHC showed that the moderate dose of Dingkun Pill suppressed the levels of the p-PI3K and p-AKT proteins by upregulating the expression of PTEN in the ovarian tissues of POI mice, thereby inhibiting the expression of the key protein p-FOXO3a. However, the inhibitory effect of the higher dose may be less than that of the lower and intermediate dose groups. CONCLUSIONS The Dingkun Pill modulated hormonal levels, promoted follicle growth and induced ovulation in mice with CTX-induced POI, with better results in the low and moderate dose groups. Its mechanism may be related to the regulation of the PTEN/PI3K/AKT/FOXO3a signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chan Su
- Department of Gynecology, Provincial Hospital, Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, 250098, China; The Second Clinical Medical College of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, 250013, China
| | - Ruihong Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Experimental Teratology, Ministry of Education, Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China
| | - Xiujuan Zhang
- Department of Gynecology, Provincial Hospital, Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, 250098, China
| | - Mengxiao Lv
- Department of Gynecology, Provincial Hospital, Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, 250098, China
| | - Xiang Liu
- The Second Clinical Medical College of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, 250013, China
| | - Kai Ao
- The Second Clinical Medical College of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, 250013, China
| | - Jing Hao
- Key Laboratory of Experimental Teratology, Ministry of Education, Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China.
| | - Yu-Lan Mu
- Department of Gynecology, Provincial Hospital, Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, 250098, China.
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25
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Hu B, Wang R, Wu D, Long R, Ruan J, Jin L, Ma D, Sun C, Liao S. Prospects for fertility preservation: the ovarian organ function reconstruction techniques for oogenesis, growth and maturation in vitro. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1177443. [PMID: 37250136 PMCID: PMC10213246 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1177443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Today, fertility preservation is receiving more attention than ever. Cryopreservation, which preserves ovarian tissue to preserve fertility in young women and reduce the risk of infertility, is currently the most widely practiced. Transplantation, however, is less feasible for women with blood-borne leukemia or cancers with a high risk of ovarian metastasis because of the risk of cancer recurrence. In addition to cryopreservation and re-implantation of embryos, in vitro ovarian organ reconstruction techniques have been considered as an alternative strategy for fertility preservation. In vitro culture of oocytes in vitro Culture, female germ cells induction from pluripotent stem cells (PSC) in vitro, artificial ovary construction, and ovaria-related organoids construction have provided new solutions for fertility preservation, which will therefore maximize the potential for all patients undergoing fertility preservation. In this review, we discussed and thought about the latest ovarian organ function reconstruction techniques in vitro to provide new ideas for future ovarian disease research and fertility preservation of patients with cancer and premature ovarian failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bai Hu
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cancer Biology Research Center (Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education), Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Renjie Wang
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cancer Biology Research Center (Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education), Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Di Wu
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cancer Biology Research Center (Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education), Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Rui Long
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cancer Biology Research Center (Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education), Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jinghan Ruan
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cancer Biology Research Center (Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education), Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Lei Jin
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Ding Ma
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cancer Biology Research Center (Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education), Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Chaoyang Sun
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cancer Biology Research Center (Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education), Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Shujie Liao
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cancer Biology Research Center (Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education), Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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26
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Xiu Z, Tang S, Kong P, Yan M, Tong X, Liu X, Liang X, Li R, Duan Y. The effect and mechanism of Zigui-Yichong-Fang on improving ovarian reserve in premature ovarian insufficiency by activating SIRT1/Foxo3a pathway. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 314:116608. [PMID: 37150421 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.116608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Revised: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Zigui-Yichong-Fang (ZGYCF) is a traditional Chinese medicine prescription for the treatment of infertility. It is clinically used to regulate the hormone level of patients, improve ovarian reserve function and increase pregnancy rate. However, the exact mechanism of action is not yet clear. AIMS OF THE STUDY This study aims to explore the potential impact of ZGYCF on POI and its mechanism. MATERIALS AND METHODS Ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS) was used to identify the main compounds of ZGYCF. After confirming the therapeutic effect of ZGYCF on cyclophosphamide-induced POI mice, RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) analysis was carried out to explore the mechanism. Then, the effects of ZGYCF on SIRT1 deacetylated Foxo3a and apoptosis were verified from multiple perspectives by serum hormone level, mRNA validation, histomorphology and protein expression, acetylation modification and other experiments. RESULTS ZGYCF can improve the morphological changes of ovarian tissue in POI model mice, reduce the damage of primordial follicles and other follicles at all stages, and protect ovarian reserve. The results of transcriptome sequencing showed that the genes expression of PI3K signal and apoptosis signal pathway were increased in POI model mice; ZGYCF can up-regulate the expression of SIRT1 gene and the expression of estradiol, apoptosis inhibition and other signal pathway genes. In addition, ZGYCF can reduce follicular damage and ovarian cell apoptosis in POI model mice through activating the deacetylation of Foxo3a by SIRT1, and improve ovarian reserve function. CONCLUSIONS ZGYCF may improve ovarian reserve function of CTX-induced POI mice by activating SIRT1-mediated deacetylation of Foxo3a, and play a role in the treatment of POI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zi Xiu
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Liver-Kidney Patterns, Institute of Integrative Medicine, College of Integrative Medicine, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, 050200, China
| | - Siling Tang
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Liver-Kidney Patterns, Institute of Integrative Medicine, College of Integrative Medicine, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, 050200, China
| | - Peng Kong
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Basic Medicine, Key Laboratory of Medical Biotechnology of Hebei Province, Key Laboratory of Neural and Vascular Biology of Ministry of Education, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, China
| | - Mengxuan Yan
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Liver-Kidney Patterns, Institute of Integrative Medicine, College of Integrative Medicine, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, 050200, China
| | - Xue Tong
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Liver-Kidney Patterns, Institute of Integrative Medicine, College of Integrative Medicine, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, 050200, China
| | - Xueping Liu
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Liver-Kidney Patterns, Institute of Integrative Medicine, College of Integrative Medicine, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, 050200, China
| | - Xiao Liang
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Liver-Kidney Patterns, Institute of Integrative Medicine, College of Integrative Medicine, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, 050200, China
| | - Rongxia Li
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Liver-Kidney Patterns, Institute of Integrative Medicine, College of Integrative Medicine, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, 050200, China
| | - Yancang Duan
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Liver-Kidney Patterns, Institute of Integrative Medicine, College of Integrative Medicine, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, 050200, China.
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27
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Dalman A, Adib S, Amorim CA, Pirjani R, Totonchi M, Valojerdi MR. Co-culture of human cryopreserved fragmented ovarian tissue with theca progenitor cells derived from theca stem cells. J Assist Reprod Genet 2023:10.1007/s10815-023-02799-8. [PMID: 37079226 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-023-02799-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 04/21/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Despite the significant advances in the in vitro development of human primordial follicles, it is still a challenging approach with great potential for improvements. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the effect of a feeder layer of human theca progenitor cells (hTPCs) on the development of primordial follicles embedded in human ovarian tissue. METHODS Fragments of frozen-thawed ovarian tissue were activated using the vanadate-derivative dipotassium bisperoxo (5-hydroxy-pyridine-2-carboxylic) oxovanadate (V) and kit ligand for 24 h. Then, the specimens were divided into the co-culture and mono-culture groups and were cultured with and without a hTPC feeder layer for 6 days, respectively. Afterward, the follicles were counted and classified, and the hormone levels and expression levels of apoptosis- and folliculogenesis-related genes were assessed. RESULTS Both culture groups showed significant follicle growth (P < 0.05). However, the co-culture group had a significantly higher number of growing follicles compared to the other group (P < 0.05). Moreover, the expression levels of ZP1, ZP2, ZP3, BMP-7, AMH, and GDF9 were significantly higher in the co-culture group compared to the other group (P < 0.05), while the expression levels of P53 and CASP3 were significantly lower (P < 0.05). Also, the concentrations of estradiol, progesterone, testosterone, and androstenedione were significantly higher in the co-culture group compared to the other group (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION The present study results provided novel evidence on the direct role of hTPCs in the growth and development of human primordial follicles. However, there is a need for future studies to illustrate the underlying mechanisms. Schematic summary of the results. According to our results, the expression of ZP1, ZP2, ZP3, and GDF9 in the oocytes, AMH in the granulosa cells, and BMP4 in the theca cells of the co-culture group were significantly higher than those of the mono-culture and non-culture groups, while the expression of apoptotic genes (BAX, CASP3, and P53) was significantly lower. Moreover, the co-culture group showed significantly increased levels of estradiol, progesterone, testosterone, and androstenedione in its culture media compared to the mono-culture groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Azam Dalman
- Department of Embryology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Banihashem Avenue, Resalat Highway, PO Box 19395- 4644, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Samane Adib
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Anatomical Sciences & Cognitive Neuroscience, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Christiani A Amorim
- Pôle de Recherche en Physiopathologie de la Reproduction, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale Et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Avenue Hippocrate 55, Bte. B1.55.03, 1200, Bruxelles, Belgique
| | - Reihaneh Pirjani
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Arash Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehdi Totonchi
- Department of Genetics, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mojtaba Rezazadeh Valojerdi
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Jalal-Ale-Ahmad Street, P.O.Box:14115-111, Tehran, Iran.
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Pellicer N, Cozzolino M, Diaz-García C, Galliano D, Cobo A, Pellicer A, Herraiz S. Ovarian rescue in women with premature ovarian insufficiency: facts and fiction. Reprod Biomed Online 2023; 46:543-565. [PMID: 36710157 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2022.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Revised: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 12/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The ovary has a comparatively short functional lifespan compared with other organs, and genetic and pathological injuries can further shorten its functional life. Thus, preserving ovarian function should be considered in the context of women with threats to ovarian reserve, such as ageing, premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) and diminished ovarian reserve (DOR). Indeed, one-third of women with POI retain resting follicles that can be reactivated to produce competent oocytes, as proved by the in-vitro activation of dormant follicles. This paper discusses mechanisms and clinical data relating to new therapeutic strategies using ovarian fragmentation, stem cells or platelet-rich plasma to regain ovarian function in women of older age (>38 years) or with POI or DOR. Follicle reactivation techniques show promising experimental outcomes and have been successful in some cases, when POI is established or DOR diagnosed; however, there is scarce clinical evidence to warrant their widespread clinical use. Beyond these contexts, also discussed is how new insights into the biological mechanisms governing follicular dynamics and oocyte competence may play a role in reversing ovarian damage, as no technique modifies oocyte quality. Additional studies should focus on increasing follicle number and quality. Finally, there is a small but important subgroup of women lacking residual follicles and requiring oocyte generation from stem cells.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - César Diaz-García
- IVI London, EGA Institute for Women's Health, UCL, London, UK; IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
| | | | - Ana Cobo
- IVI RMA Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Antonio Pellicer
- IVI RMA Rome, Rome, Italy; IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
| | - Sonia Herraiz
- IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain.
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29
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Does Pten have an impact on oogenesis of PCOS mouse models? ZYGOTE 2023; 31:97-100. [PMID: 36533329 DOI: 10.1017/s0967199422000661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex disorder in which the aetiology is still not explained very well. The PI3K/PTEN (phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/phosphatase and tensin homolog deleted on chromosome 10) pathway is an important pathway that is involved in many mechanisms, including proliferation, growth and motility. PTEN plays a role in granulosa cell proliferation and regulates the differentiation process. The aim of this study was to investigate the expression levels of Pten and Pik3ca in PCOS mouse models with and without any treatment procedures. Three groups of mouse models, PCOS, a PCOS group with clomiphene citrate treatment, and a PCOS group with the combination of clomiphene citrate, metformin and pioglitazone treatment, were established. Ovarian tissues, which were obtained from these groups and a control group with no PCOS, were embedded in paraffin and RNA was extracted. cDNA was synthesized and real-time PCR was conducted to evaluate the expression levels of Pten and Pik3ca. The results of this study showed that both Pten and Pik3ca genes were expressed in the ovarian tissues from the mouse models. Although one-way analysis of variance results showed that Pten was expressed significantly differently in the samples, individual Student's t-tests did not show any significantly different expression levels in each group. This study is important as it shows the expression patterns of two genes in PCOS mouse models with different treatment strategies, including clomiphene citrate, metformin and pioglitazone. The results of this study formed the basis of research studies and investigations into different genes within the PTEN pathway, as well as other pathways that are under investigation.
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Marchante M, Buigues A, Ramirez-Martin N, Martinez J, Pellicer N, Pellicer A, Herraiz S. Single intraovarian dose of stem cell- and platelet-secreted factors mitigates age-related ovarian infertility in a murine model. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2023; 228:561.e1-561.e17. [PMID: 36706857 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2023.01.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Systemic administration of soluble factors from bone marrow-derived stem cells combined with activated platelet-rich plasma (SC-PRP) restored ovarian function, mediated through paracrine signaling, in murine models of chemotherapy-induced ovarian damage and human tissue from poor responder patients. However, the effects against age-related infertility and the efficacy of local administration have not been evaluated yet. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to assess whether a single intraovarian dose of stem cells combined with activated platelet-rich plasma can recover ovarian function, oocyte quality, and developmental competence in older mice. STUDY DESIGN The effects of stem cells combined with activated platelet-rich plasma against age-related infertility were assessed following controlled ovarian stimulation in an aging murine model reproducing 3 physiological stages of women's reproductive life, namely young, advanced maternal age, and menopausal (n=12 animals per group). Female mice were randomized to receive a single intraovarian injection (10 μL/ovary) of either saline, activated platelet-rich plasma, or stem cells combined with activated platelet-rich plasma. Seven days later, the mice were stimulated, naturally mated, and sacrificed to harvest their ovaries for histologic assessment and molecular analysis and their oviducts to evaluate oocyte maturation and to assess early embryo development. RESULTS A single intraovarian injection of stem cells combined with activated platelet-rich plasma promoted follicle activation and development in young, advanced maternal age, and old mice. Furthermore, stem cells combined with activated platelet-rich plasma rescued fertility in older mice by enhancing the quantity and quality of ovulated mature oocytes and supporting early embryo development to the blastocyst stage in all the evaluated ages. These fertility outcomes were positively associated with mitochondrial quality, treatment-increased mitochondrial DNA copy numbers, and reduced oxidative damage and apoptosis. Finally, the effects observed by histologic analysis were supported at the proteomic level. Functional proteomic analyses revealed molecular mechanisms involved in oocyte maturation and quality, mitochondrial function, and recovery of the ovarian stroma. CONCLUSION Bone marrow-derived stem cells combined with activated platelet-rich plasma is a promising treatment with the potential to improve the reproductive outcomes of women with age-related infertility, exceeding the restorative effects of platelet-rich plasma alone. Although further research in human ovarian samples is still required, the autologous nature of stem cell factors collected by noninvasive mobilization, their combination with platelet-rich plasma, and the local administration route suggest that stem cells combined with activated platelet-rich plasma treatment could be a potentially effective and safe application for future clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Marchante
- IVI Foundation, Valencia, Spain; Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Anna Buigues
- IVI Foundation, Valencia, Spain; Reproductive Medicine Research Group, Instituto Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS la Fe), Valencia, Spain
| | - Noelia Ramirez-Martin
- IVI Foundation, Valencia, Spain; Reproductive Medicine Research Group, Instituto Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS la Fe), Valencia, Spain
| | - Jessica Martinez
- IVI Foundation, Valencia, Spain; Reproductive Medicine Research Group, Instituto Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS la Fe), Valencia, Spain
| | - Nuria Pellicer
- Reproductive Medicine Research Group, Instituto Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS la Fe), Valencia, Spain
| | - Antonio Pellicer
- Reproductive Medicine Research Group, Instituto Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS la Fe), Valencia, Spain; IVI-RMA Valencia, Valencia, Spain; IVI-RMA Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Sonia Herraiz
- IVI Foundation, Valencia, Spain; Reproductive Medicine Research Group, Instituto Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS la Fe), Valencia, Spain.
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Fiorentino G, Cimadomo D, Innocenti F, Soscia D, Vaiarelli A, Ubaldi FM, Gennarelli G, Garagna S, Rienzi L, Zuccotti M. Biomechanical forces and signals operating in the ovary during folliculogenesis and their dysregulation: implications for fertility. Hum Reprod Update 2023; 29:1-23. [PMID: 35856663 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmac031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2020] [Revised: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Folliculogenesis occurs in the highly dynamic environment of the ovary. Follicle cyclic recruitment, neo-angiogenesis, spatial displacement, follicle atresia and ovulation stand out as major events resulting from the interplay between mechanical forces and molecular signals. Morphological and functional changes to the growing follicle and to the surrounding tissue are required to produce oocytes capable of supporting preimplantation development to the blastocyst stage. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE This review will summarize the ovarian morphological and functional context that contributes to follicle recruitment, growth and ovulation, as well as to the acquisition of oocyte developmental competence. We will describe the changes occurring during folliculogenesis to the ovarian extracellular matrix (ECM) and to the vasculature, their influence on the mechanical properties of the ovarian tissue, and, in turn, their influence on the regulation of signal transduction. Also, we will outline how their dysregulation might be associated with pathologies such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis or premature ovarian insufficiency (POI). Finally, for each of these three pathologies, we will highlight therapeutic strategies attempting to correct the altered biomechanical context in order to restore fertility. SEARCH METHODS For each area discussed, a systematic bibliographical search was performed, without temporal limits, using PubMed Central, Web of Science and Scopus search engines employing the keywords extracellular matrix, mechanobiology, biomechanics, vasculature, angiogenesis or signalling pathway in combination with: ovary, oogenesis, oocyte, folliculogenesis, ovarian follicle, theca, granulosa, cumulus, follicular fluid, corpus luteum, meiosis, oocyte developmental competence, preimplantation, polycystic ovary syndrome, premature ovarian insufficiency or endometriosis. OUTCOMES Through search engines queries, we yielded a total of 37 368 papers that were further selected based on our focus on mammals and, specifically, on rodents, bovine, equine, ovine, primates and human, and also were trimmed around each specific topic of the review. After the elimination of duplicates, this selection process resulted in 628 papers, of which 287 were cited in the manuscript. Among these, 89.2% were published in the past 22 years, while the remaining 8.0%, 2.4% or 0.3% were published during the 1990s, 1980s or before, respectively. During folliculogenesis, changes occur to the ovarian ECM composition and organization that, together with vasculature modelling around the growing follicle, are aimed to sustain its recruitment and growth, and the maturation of the enclosed oocyte. These events define the scenario in which mechanical forces are key to the regulation of cascades of molecular signals. Alterations to this context determine impaired folliculogenesis and decreased oocyte developmental potential, as observed in pathological conditions which are causes of infertility, such as PCOS, endometriosis or POI. WIDER IMPLICATIONS The knowledge of these mechanisms and the rules that govern them lay a sound basis to explain how follicles recruitment and growth are modulated, and stimulate insights to develop, in clinical practice, strategies to improve follicular recruitment and oocyte competence, particularly for pathologies like PCOS, endometriosis and POI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Fiorentino
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology, Department of Biology and Biotechnology "Lazzaro Spallanzani", University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy.,Center for Health Technologies, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | | | | | - Daria Soscia
- Clinica Valle Giulia, GeneraLife IVF, Rome, Italy
| | | | | | - Gianluca Gennarelli
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Physiopathology of Reproduction and IVF Unit, Department of Surgical Sciences, Sant'Anna Hospital, University of Torino, Turin, Italy.,Livet, GeneraLife IVF, Turin, Italy
| | - Silvia Garagna
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology, Department of Biology and Biotechnology "Lazzaro Spallanzani", University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy.,Center for Health Technologies, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Laura Rienzi
- Clinica Valle Giulia, GeneraLife IVF, Rome, Italy.,Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino "Carlo Bo", Urbino, Italy
| | - Maurizio Zuccotti
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology, Department of Biology and Biotechnology "Lazzaro Spallanzani", University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy.,Center for Health Technologies, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
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Zhang T, He M, Zhang J, Tong Y, Chen T, Wang C, Pan W, Xiao Z. Mechanisms of primordial follicle activation and new pregnancy opportunity for premature ovarian failure patients. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1113684. [PMID: 36926197 PMCID: PMC10011087 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1113684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Primordial follicles are the starting point of follicular development and the basic functional unit of female reproduction. Primordial follicles are formed around birth, and most of the primordial follicles then enter a dormant state. Since primordial follicles are limited in number and can't be renewed, dormant primordial follicles cannot be reversed once they enter the growing state. Thus, the orderly occurrence of primordial follicles selective activation directly affects the rate of follicle consumption and thus determines the length of female reproductive lifespan. Studies have found that appropriately inhibiting the activation rate of primordial follicles can effectively slow down the rate of follicle consumption, maintain fertility and delay ovarian aging. Based on the known mechanisms of primordial follicle activation, primordial follicle in vitro activation (IVA) technique has been clinically developed. IVA can help patients with premature ovarian failure, middle-aged infertile women, or infertile women due to gynecological surgery treatment to solve infertility problems. The study of the mechanism of selective activation of primordial follicles can contribute to the development of more efficient and safe IVA techniques. In this paper, recent mechanisms of primordial follicle activation and its clinical application are reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tuo Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China.,Transformation Engineering Research Center of Chronic Disease Diagnosis and Treatment, Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China.,Prenatal Diagnosis Center in Guizhou Province, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China.,College of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China.,Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis and Drug Research on Common Chronic Diseases, Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China.,Guizhou Institute of Precision Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Meina He
- College of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China.,Guizhou Institute of Precision Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Jingjing Zhang
- Transformation Engineering Research Center of Chronic Disease Diagnosis and Treatment, Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
| | - Yuntong Tong
- Transformation Engineering Research Center of Chronic Disease Diagnosis and Treatment, Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
| | - Tengxiang Chen
- Transformation Engineering Research Center of Chronic Disease Diagnosis and Treatment, Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China.,College of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China.,Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis and Drug Research on Common Chronic Diseases, Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China.,Guizhou Institute of Precision Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Chao Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Pan
- Prenatal Diagnosis Center in Guizhou Province, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Ziwen Xiao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
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Intraovarian condensed platelet cytokines for infertility and menopause-Mirage or miracle? Biochimie 2023; 204:41-47. [PMID: 36075561 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2022.08.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Revised: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 08/31/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
On a therapeutic landscape unchanged since the 1980's, oocyte donation with IVF still stands as the solitary medical answer to diminished reserve and premature ovarian insufficiency. In 2016, intraovarian platelet-rich plasma (PRP) crossed the horizon as a hopeful reply to these intertwined problems. The once remote mirage of platelet cytokine effects on gene regulation or telomere stabilization has been brought into sharper focus, with current work clarifying how PRP corrects oxidative stress, rectifies tissue hypoxia, downregulates apoptosis, and enhances cellular metabolism. Not yet ready for routine use, this innovative treatment has already offered at least one point of early consensus: How intraovarian PRP results should be classified-Patients are either responders or non-responders. From this it is intriguing that no published PRP protocol has ever reported a supranormal ovarian rebound or hyperstimulation effect. This might be explained by baseline age-related ovarian conditions prevalent among poor responders, but since dysregulated or malignant transformations are also missing in other tissue contexts following autologous PRP treatment, the contribution of some platelet product which intrinsically delimits regenerative action cannot be discounted. Here we summarize results with recent experimental and clinical platelet research, framing those most likely to help advance reproductive endocrinology practice.
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Wang Y, Zhang J, Liang J, Jia L, Niu S, Cheng K, Yang C, Lu Z, Mu L, Yang X, Zhang Y, Zhang H. In vivo promotion of primordial follicle activation by stem cell factor treatment in mice with premature ovarian insufficiency and advanced age. Mol Hum Reprod 2022; 29:6881085. [PMID: 36477300 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaac041] [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: 07/11/2022] [Revised: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Dormant primordial follicles (PFs) are the most abundant reproductive resource in mammalian ovaries. With advances in the mechanism of study of the regulation of PF activation, PFs have been used to improve fertility in clinical practice. As a central controlling element of follicle activation signaling, the pre-granulosa cell-secreted stem cell factor (SCF; also known as KIT ligand, KITL), which initiates the growth of dormant oocytes, is an ideal natural activator that stimulates follicle activation. However, no systematic study has been conducted to identify the activating effect of SCF in vivo and in vitro. In this study, by combining an in vitro whole ovary culture system and several mouse models, we provide a series of experimental evidence that SCF is an efficient activator for improving PF activation in mouse ovaries. Our in vitro study showed that SCF increased phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) signaling and PF activation ratio in neonatal ovaries. In vivo ovarian non-invasive topical administrations of SCF to the ovaries efficiently improved follicle activation and development, oocyte retrieval ratio and fertility in inducible premature ovarian insufficiency mouse models and aged mice. Our study suggests that SCF is an efficient growth factor that can be applied to improve PF activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yibo Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Jiawei Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Precision Nutrition and Food Quality, Department of Nutrition and Health (Institute of Nutrition and Health), China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Jing Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Longzhong Jia
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Shudong Niu
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Kaixin Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Chen Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Zining Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Lu Mu
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Xuebing Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Hua Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
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Mechanistic insights into HuR inhibitor MS-444 arresting embryonic development revealed by low-input RNA-seq and STORM. Cell Biol Toxicol 2022; 38:1175-1197. [PMID: 36085230 DOI: 10.1007/s10565-022-09757-7] [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: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
With improvements in the survival rate of patients with cancer, fertility maintenance has become a major concern in terms of cancer treatment for women of reproductive age. Thus, it is important to examine the impact on fertility of anticancer drugs that are used clinically or are undergoing trials. The HuR small-molecule inhibitor MS-444 has been used in many cancer treatment studies, but its reproductive toxicity in females is unknown. Here, we reported that MS-444 blocked the nucleocytoplasmic transport of Agbl2 mRNA by inhibiting HuR dimerization, resulting in the developmental arrest of 2-cell stage embryos in mouse. Combining analysis of low-input RNA-seq for MS-444-treated 2-cell embryos and mapping binding sites of RNA-binding protein, Agbl2 was predicted to be the target gene of MS-444. For further confirmation, RNAi experiment in wild-type zygotes showed that Agbl2 knockdown reduced the proportion of embryos successfully developed to the blastocyst stage: from 71% in controls to 23%. Furthermore, RNA-FISH and luciferase reporter analyses showed that MS-444 blocked the nucleocytoplasmic transport of Agbl2 mRNA and reduced its stability by inhibiting HuR dimerization. In addition, optimized stochastic optical reconstruction microscopy (STORM) imaging showed that MS-444 significantly reduced the HuR dimerization, and HuR mainly existed in cluster form in 2-cell stage embryos. In conclusion, this study provides clinical guidance for maintaining fertility during the treatment of cancer with MS-444 in women of reproductive age. And also, our research provides guidance for the application of STORM in nanometer scale studies of embryonic cells. HuR inhibitor MS-444 arrested embryonic development at 2-cell stage. Low-input RNA-seq revealed that Agbl2 was the target gene of MS-444. MS-444 blocked the nucleocytoplasmic transport of Agbl2 mRNA by inhibiting HuR dimerization and reduced the stability of Agbl2 mRNA. STORM with our optimized protocol showed that HuR tended to form elliptical and dense clusters in 2-cell stage embryos.
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Gonfloni S, Jodice C, Gustavino B, Valentini E. DNA Damage Stress Response and Follicle Activation: Signaling Routes of Mammalian Ovarian Reserve. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232214379. [PMID: 36430860 PMCID: PMC9693393 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232214379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Chemotherapy regimens and radiotherapy are common strategies to fight cancer. In women, these therapies may cause side effects such as premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) and infertility. Clinical strategies to protect the ovarian reserve from the lethal effect of cancer therapies needs better understanding of the mechanisms underlying iatrogenic loss of follicle reserve. Recent reports demonstrate a critical role for p53 and CHK2 in the oocyte response to different DNA stressors, which are commonly used to treat cancer. Here we review the molecular mechanisms underlying the DNA damage stress response (DDR) and discuss crosstalk between DDR and signaling pathways implicated in primordial follicle activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefania Gonfloni
- Department of Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Della Ricerca Scientifica, 00133 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Carla Jodice
- Department of Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Della Ricerca Scientifica, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Bianca Gustavino
- Department of Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Della Ricerca Scientifica, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Elvia Valentini
- Department of Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Della Ricerca Scientifica, 00133 Rome, Italy
- PhD Program in Cellular and Molecular Biology, 00133 Rome, Italy
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An Update on In Vitro Folliculogenesis: A New Technique for Post-Cancer Fertility. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10092217. [PMID: 36140316 PMCID: PMC9496077 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10092217] [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: 07/20/2022] [Revised: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Obtaining in vitro mature oocytes from ovarian tissue to preserve women’s fertility is still a challenge. At present, there is a therapeutic deadlock for girls and women who need emergency fertility preservation in case of a high risk of ovary invasion by malignant cells. In such a case, ovarian tissue cannot be engrafted; an alternative could be in vitro folliculogenesis. Methods: This review focuses on the progress of in vitro folliculogenesis in humans. PubMed and Embase databases were used to search for original English-language articles. Results: The first phase of in vitro folliculogenesis is carried out in the original ovarian tissue. The addition of one (or more) initiation activator(s) is not essential but allows better yields and the use of a 3D culture system at this stage provides no added value. The second stage requires a mechanical and/or enzymatic isolation of the secondary follicles. The use of an activator and/or a 3D culture system is then necessary. Conclusion: The current results are promising but there is still a long way to go. Obtaining live births in large animals is an essential step in validating this in vitro folliculogenesis technique.
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38
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Wei X, Zheng L, Tian Y, Wang H, Su Y, Feng G, Wang C, Lu Z. Tyrosine phosphatase SHP2 in ovarian granulosa cells balances follicular development by inhibiting PI3K/AKT signaling. J Mol Cell Biol 2022; 14:6674768. [PMID: 36002018 PMCID: PMC9764209 DOI: 10.1093/jmcb/mjac048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 05/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
In mammals, the growth and maturation of oocytes within growing follicles largely depends on ovarian granulosa cells (GCs) in response to gonadotropin stimulation. Many signals have been shown to regulate GC proliferation and apoptosis. However, whether the tyrosine phosphatase SHP2 is involved remains unclear. In this study, we identified the crucial roles of SHP2 in modulating GC proliferation and apoptosis. The production of both mature oocytes and pups was increased in mice with Shp2 specifically deleted in ovarian GCs via Fshr-Cre. Shp2 deletion simultaneously promoted GC proliferation and inhibited GC apoptosis. Furthermore, Shp2 deficiency promoted, while Shp2 overexpression inhibited, the proliferation of cultured primary mouse ovarian GCs and the human ovarian granulosa-like tumor cell line KGN in vitro. Shp2 deficiency promoted follicule-stimulating hormone (FSH)-activated phosphorylation of AKT in vivo. SHP2 deficiency reversed the inhibitory effect of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) on AKT activation in KGN cells. H2O2 treatment promoted the interaction between SHP2 and the p85 subunit of PI3K in KGN cells. Therefore, SHP2 in GCs may act as a negative modulator to balance follicular development by suppressing PI3K/AKT signaling. The novel function of SHP2 in modulating proliferation and apoptosis of GCs provides a potential therapeutic target for the clinical treatment of follicle developmental dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoli Wei
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, China
| | - Lanping Zheng
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, China
| | - Yingpu Tian
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, China
| | - Haibin Wang
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Medical College of Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Youqiang Su
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Gensheng Feng
- Department of Pathology, Division of Biological Sciences, University of California at San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Chao Wang
- Correspondence to: Chao Wang, E-mail:
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Barberino RS, Macedo TJS, Lins TLBG, Menezes VG, Silva RLS, Monte APO, Palheta RC, Smitz JEJ, Matos MHT. Immunolocalization of melatonin receptor type 1 in the sheep ovary and involvement of the PI3K/Akt/FOXO3a signaling pathway in the effects of melatonin on survival and in vitro activation of primordial follicles. Mol Reprod Dev 2022; 89:485-497. [PMID: 35943024 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Revised: 07/05/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
This study characterized the expression of melatonin receptor type 1 (MT1 ) protein in sheep ovaries, evaluated melatonin effects on primordial follicle survival and development after in vitro culture of ovarian tissue and verified the possible involvement of the phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase/protein kinase B/forkhead box O3a (PI3K/Akt/FOXO3a) pathway in the melatonin actions. Ovine ovarian fragments were cultured in α-modified minimum essential medium alone (α-MEM+ ) or supplemented with 100, 500, or 1000 pg/ml melatonin for 7 days. PI3K inhibition was performed through pretreatment of ovarian fragments with LY294002. Thereafter, immunohistochemistry was performed to evaluate the expression of cleaved caspase-3, Akt, phosphorylated-Akt, and phosphorylated-FOXO3a (p-FOXO3a). The immunohistochemical localization of the MT1 receptor protein was documented in sheep preantral and antral follicles. After in vitro culture, 100 pg/ml melatonin showed higher follicular survival and activation than α-MEM+ and other melatonin concentrations. After PI3K inhibition, there was an increase in cleaved caspase-3-positive follicles, and a decrease in the primordial follicle activation, Akt phosphorylation, and nuclear exclusion of p-FOXO3a. In conclusion, MT1 receptor protein is present in the sheep ovary. Furthermore, 100 pg/ml melatonin maintains survival and stimulates activation of primordial follicles through the PI3K/Akt/FOXO3a signaling pathway after in vitro culture of sheep ovarian tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ricássio S Barberino
- Nucleus of Biotechnology Applied to Ovarian Follicle Development, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of São Francisco Valley - UNIVASF, Petrolina, Brazil
| | - Taís J S Macedo
- Nucleus of Biotechnology Applied to Ovarian Follicle Development, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of São Francisco Valley - UNIVASF, Petrolina, Brazil
| | - Thae Lanne B G Lins
- Nucleus of Biotechnology Applied to Ovarian Follicle Development, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of São Francisco Valley - UNIVASF, Petrolina, Brazil
| | - Vanúzia G Menezes
- Nucleus of Biotechnology Applied to Ovarian Follicle Development, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of São Francisco Valley - UNIVASF, Petrolina, Brazil
| | - Regina L S Silva
- Nucleus of Biotechnology Applied to Ovarian Follicle Development, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of São Francisco Valley - UNIVASF, Petrolina, Brazil
| | - Alane P O Monte
- Nucleus of Biotechnology Applied to Ovarian Follicle Development, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of São Francisco Valley - UNIVASF, Petrolina, Brazil
| | - Raimundo C Palheta
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pharmacology, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of São Francisco Valley - UNIVASF, Petrolina, Brazil
| | - Johan E J Smitz
- Follicle Biology Laboratory, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Free University Brussels - VUB, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Maria Helena T Matos
- Nucleus of Biotechnology Applied to Ovarian Follicle Development, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of São Francisco Valley - UNIVASF, Petrolina, Brazil
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Yang S, Liu Z, Wu S, Zou L, Cao Y, Xu H, Huang J, Tian Q, Wu F, Li P, Peng S, Shuai C. Meiosis resumption in human primordial germ cells from induced pluripotent stem cells by in vitro activation and reconstruction of ovarian nests. Stem Cell Res Ther 2022; 13:339. [PMID: 35883163 PMCID: PMC9327357 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-022-03019-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The differentiation of human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) into oocytes, which involves the transformation from mitosis to meiosis, has been a hotspot of biological research for many years and represents a desirable experimental model and potential strategy for treating infertility. At present, studies have shown that most cells stagnate in the oogonium stage after differentiation into primordial germ cells (PGCs) from human iPSCs. Methods iPSCs carrying a SYCP3-mkate2 knock-in reporter were generated by the CRISPR/Cas9 strategy to monitor meiosis status during induced differentiation from iPSCs into oocytes. These induced PGCs/oogonia were activated by small molecules from the Wnt signaling pathway and then cocultured with reconstructed human ovarian nests in vivo for further development. Results First, human PGCs and oogonia were efficiently induced from iPSCs. Second, induced dormant PGCs resumed meiosis and then differentiated into primary oocytes through the in vitro activation of the Wnt signaling pathway. Finally, a new coculture system involving the reconstruction of ovarian nests in vitro could facilitate the differentiation of oocytes. Conclusions Human PGCs/oogonia induced from iPSCs can be activated and used to resume meiosis by molecules of the Wnt signaling pathway. The coculture of activated PGCs and reconstruction of ovarian nests facilitated differentiation into primary oocytes and the generation of haploid human oocytes in vivo. These findings established a new strategy for germline competence in primary oocytes and provided a keystone for human gametogenesis in vitro and in vivo. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13287-022-03019-3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheng Yang
- The Reproduction Medical Center, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518001, Guangdong, People's Republic of China. .,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shenzhen University General Hospital, Shenzhen, 518053, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China.
| | - Zhen Liu
- The Reproduction Medical Center, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518001, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Shengda Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shenzhen University General Hospital, Shenzhen, 518053, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China.,Institute of Additive Manufacturing, Jiangxi University of Science and Technology, Nanchang, 330013, People's Republic of China
| | - Lang Zou
- The Reproduction Medical Center, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518001, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Yanpei Cao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shenzhen University General Hospital, Shenzhen, 518053, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Hongjia Xu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shenzhen University General Hospital, Shenzhen, 518053, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Jingfeng Huang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shenzhen University General Hospital, Shenzhen, 518053, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Qingyan Tian
- The Reproduction Medical Center, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518001, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Fanggui Wu
- The Reproduction Medical Center, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518001, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Panpan Li
- The Reproduction Medical Center, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518001, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Shuping Peng
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis, The Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410078, People's Republic of China.
| | - Cijun Shuai
- Institute of Additive Manufacturing, Jiangxi University of Science and Technology, Nanchang, 330013, People's Republic of China. .,State Key Laboratory of High-Performance Complex Manufacturing, Central South University, Changsha, 410083, People's Republic of China.
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Li B, Wang W, Huang Y, Han L, Li J, Zheng N, Wu Z, Zhang X, Li X, Deng L, Lin M, Chen X, Zhang M. Lithium treatment promotes the activation of primordial follicles through PI3K/Akt signaling. Biol Reprod 2022; 107:1059-1071. [PMID: 35871551 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2021] [Revised: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
In mammals, dormant primordial follicles represent the ovarian reserve throughout reproductive life. In vitro activation of dormant primordial follicles has been used to treat patients with premature ovarian insufficiency (POI). However, there remains a lack of effective strategies to stimulate follicle activation in vivo. In this study, we used an in vitro ovarian culture system and intraperitoneal injection to study the effect of lithium treatment on primordial follicle activation. Lithium increased the number of growing follicles in cultured mouse ovaries and promoted pre-granulosa cell proliferation. Furthermore, lithium significantly increased the levels of phosphorylated protein kinase B (Akt) and the number of oocytes with forkhead Box O3a (FOXO3a) nuclear export. Inhibition of the phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase (PI3K)/Akt pathway by LY294002 reversed lithium-promoted mouse primordial follicle activation. These results suggest that lithium promotes mouse primordial follicle activation by the PI3K/Akt signaling. Lithium also promoted primordial follicle activation and increased the levels of p-Akt in mouse ovaries in vivo and in human ovarian tissue cultured in vitro. Taken together, lithium promotes primordial follicle activation in mice and humans by the PI3K/Akt signaling. Lithium might be a potential oral drug for treating infertility in POI patients with residual dormant primordial follicles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Biao Li
- State Key Laboratory for Agrobiotechnology , College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193 , China
- Division of Cell , Developmental and Integrative Biology, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006 , China
| | - Weiyong Wang
- Division of Cell , Developmental and Integrative Biology, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006 , China
| | - Yingying Huang
- Division of Cell , Developmental and Integrative Biology, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006 , China
| | - Lincheng Han
- Division of Cell , Developmental and Integrative Biology, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006 , China
| | - Jia Li
- State Key Laboratory for Agrobiotechnology , College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193 , China
- Division of Cell , Developmental and Integrative Biology, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006 , China
| | - Nana Zheng
- State Key Laboratory for Agrobiotechnology , College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193 , China
- Division of Cell , Developmental and Integrative Biology, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006 , China
| | - Zhanying Wu
- State Key Laboratory for Agrobiotechnology , College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193 , China
- Division of Cell , Developmental and Integrative Biology, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006 , China
| | - Xiaodan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Agrobiotechnology , College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193 , China
- Division of Cell , Developmental and Integrative Biology, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006 , China
| | - Xuelan Li
- The Center for Reproductive Medicine , Shunde Hospital, Southern Medical University (The First People's Hospital of Shunde), Foshan 528300, Guangdong , China
| | - Ling Deng
- The Center for Reproductive Medicine , Shunde Hospital, Southern Medical University (The First People's Hospital of Shunde), Foshan 528300, Guangdong , China
| | - Min Lin
- The Center for Reproductive Medicine , Shunde Hospital, Southern Medical University (The First People's Hospital of Shunde), Foshan 528300, Guangdong , China
| | - Xin Chen
- The Center for Reproductive Medicine , Shunde Hospital, Southern Medical University (The First People's Hospital of Shunde), Foshan 528300, Guangdong , China
| | - Meijia Zhang
- Division of Cell , Developmental and Integrative Biology, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006 , China
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Zhao Y, Zhang Y, Liu D, Feng H, Wang X, Su J, Yao Y, Ng EHY, Yeung WSB, Li RHW, Rodriguez-Wallberg KA, Liu K. Identification of curcumin as a novel potential drug for promoting the development of small ovarian follicles for infertility treatment. PNAS NEXUS 2022; 1:pgac108. [PMID: 36741430 PMCID: PMC9896916 DOI: 10.1093/pnasnexus/pgac108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 07/02/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
In-vitro fertilization is an effective treatment for various causes of infertility. However, management of women with poor ovarian response or premature ovarian insufficiency remains challenging because these women have underdeveloped small ovarian follicles that do not respond to hormone treatment. In-vitro activation of small follicles has been developed but its efficiency has much room for improvement. In the current study, we provide several lines of evidence showing that curcumin, an FDA-approved traditional medicine, can specifically promote the development of mouse ovarian follicles from the primary to secondary stage, which greatly potentiates these small follicles for subsequent in-vivo development into antral follicles that can be ovulated. Mechanistically, we show that curcumin promotes the proliferation and differentiation of granulosa cells and the growth of oocytes by activating the phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase (PI3K) signaling pathway. Most importantly, we show that in-vitro treatment of human ovarian tissues with curcumin can promote the in-vivo survival and development of small human ovarian follicles, showing that curcumin can be used as a potential drug to increase the success rate of in-vitro activation of small human follicles. We thus identify curcumin as a novel potential drug for promoting the development of small human ovarian follicles for infertility treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Zhao
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Center of Assisted Reproduction and Embryology, The University of Hong Kong—Shenzhen Hospital, Haiyuan First Road 1, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518053, China,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
| | - Yihui Zhang
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Center of Assisted Reproduction and Embryology, The University of Hong Kong—Shenzhen Hospital, Haiyuan First Road 1, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518053, China,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
| | - Dongteng Liu
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Center of Assisted Reproduction and Embryology, The University of Hong Kong—Shenzhen Hospital, Haiyuan First Road 1, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518053, China,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
| | - Haiwei Feng
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Center of Assisted Reproduction and Embryology, The University of Hong Kong—Shenzhen Hospital, Haiyuan First Road 1, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518053, China
| | - Xiaohui Wang
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Center of Assisted Reproduction and Embryology, The University of Hong Kong—Shenzhen Hospital, Haiyuan First Road 1, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518053, China
| | - Jiajun Su
- Department of Anatomical Pathology, The University of Hong Kong—Shenzhen Hospital, Haiyuan First Road 1, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518053, China
| | - Yuanqing Yao
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Center of Assisted Reproduction and Embryology, The University of Hong Kong—Shenzhen Hospital, Haiyuan First Road 1, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518053, China
| | - Ernest H Y Ng
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Center of Assisted Reproduction and Embryology, The University of Hong Kong—Shenzhen Hospital, Haiyuan First Road 1, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518053, China,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
| | - William S B Yeung
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Center of Assisted Reproduction and Embryology, The University of Hong Kong—Shenzhen Hospital, Haiyuan First Road 1, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518053, China,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
| | - Raymond H W Li
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Center of Assisted Reproduction and Embryology, The University of Hong Kong—Shenzhen Hospital, Haiyuan First Road 1, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518053, China,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
| | | | - Kui Liu
- To whom correspondence should be addressed:
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Sezginer P, Elmas C, Yıldız F. The effect of controlled ovarian hyperstimulation on ovarian reserve via PTEN pathway. REPRODUCTION AND FERTILITY 2022; 3:187-197. [PMID: 35972314 PMCID: PMC9513659 DOI: 10.1530/raf-21-0075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract This study was carried out to investigate whether repeated controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH) affects ovarian reserve. For this reason, we aimed to show possible changes in the expression of PTEN and FOXO3, which are involved in preserving the over-reserve, after applying the COH protocol methods. For this purpose, 18 young Wistar albino female rats (8 weeks old) were randomly assigned as group 1 (control), group 2, and group 3 as 6 subjects in each group. Experimental groups were treated with 10 IU/0.1 mL pregnant mare's serum gonadotropin and a COH protocol consisting of 10 IU/0.1 mL human chorionic gonadotropin injection after 48 h. This procedure was applied three and five times to group 2 and group 3, respectively. For the control groups, the same procedures were performed with 0.1 mL of 0.9% sodium chloride solution. At the end of the experiment, the ovarium tissues were placed in a 10% neutral formaldehyde solution for light microscopic examinations. In histological sections stained with hematoxylin and eosin, the number of ovarian follicles was determined using the physical dissector method. However, the expression of PTEN, FOXO3, and LH-R molecules was evaluated by immunohistochemical methods. As a result of our study, it was concluded that COH administration reduces the expression levels of PTEN and FOXO3 proteins and LH-R, which are among the essential components of the PIK3 intracellular signaling pathway and also increased the levels of hormones such as follicle-stimulating hormone, estradiol, and luteinizing hormone, which are over-reserve markers, and causes adverse effects on the histological structure, oocyte morphology, and number of ovaries. Lay summary Today, approximately 10-15% of couples experience fertility problems. However, assisted reproductive techniques help people with fertility problems to get pregnant. The main purpose of these techniques is to put the sperm and egg together outside the woman's body where the eggs are fertilized and then to return the fertilized eggs (embryos) to the womb. During a woman's menstrual cycle, several hormones influence the growth of the eggs. This process can be mimicked by using various medications. Medication is given to increase the number of eggs that develop. However, this method is not the same as normal ovulation. Therefore, in our study, we wanted to examine the effect that developing multiple follicles has on the number and quality of eggs remaining for the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Perihan Sezginer
- Department of Medical Laboratory Techniques, Alanya Alaaddin Keykubat University, Health Services Vocational School, Alanya, Turkey
| | - Cigdem Elmas
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Gazi University, Faculty of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Fatma Yıldız
- Department of Medical Laboratory Techniques, Alanya Alaaddin Keykubat University, Health Services Vocational School, Alanya, Turkey
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Let-7a mimic transfection reduces chemotherapy-induced damage in a mouse ovarian transplantation model. Sci Rep 2022; 12:10863. [PMID: 35760952 PMCID: PMC9237019 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-14926-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Pharmacological approaches offer a non-invasive and promising option for fertility preservation in young female cancer patients undergoing gonadotoxic therapy. The GnRH-agonists are the only clinically available drugs in this indication, but their use and mechanisms of protection are still controversial. Recently, we have investigated new targeted drugs based on microRNA (miRNA) replacement therapy, and have identified the let-7a miRNA as candidate for fertility preservation strategies. Here, the effect of let-7a replacement during chemotherapy exposure on follicular growth and oocyte maturation capacity was investigated using a mouse ovarian-kidney transplantation model. Newborn mouse ovaries were cultured under different conditions; control, chemotherapy exposure (4-hydroperoxycyclophosphamide, 4-HC), and co-treatment with 4-HC and let-7a mimic transfection (4-HC + let-7a). The ovaries were then transplanted under the kidney capsule of recipient mice and follicular growth, survival, and oocyte in vitro maturation were assessed after 3 weeks. The results showed that the follicular pool was highest in the control group but higher in the 4-HC + let-7a group than the 4-HC group. DNA-damage/apoptosis ratios were higher in all 4-HC-exposed groups compared to control but were reduced in the 4-HC + let-7a group. In addition, the post-transplantation oocyte in vitro maturation rate was higher in the 4-HC + let-7a group compared to the 4-HC group, suggesting better oocyte quality. These results provide new information regarding the beneficial effects of let-7a replacement against chemotherapy-induced ovarian damage and open new perspectives for future in vivo applications.
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Wang L, Mei Q, Xie Q, Li H, Su P, Zhang L, Li K, Ma D, Chen G, Li J, Xiang W. A comparative study of Mesenchymal Stem Cells transplantation approach to antagonize age-associated ovarian hypofunction with consideration of safety and efficiency. J Adv Res 2022; 38:245-259. [PMID: 35572405 PMCID: PMC9091735 DOI: 10.1016/j.jare.2021.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2021] [Revised: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 09/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem cells transplantation (MSCs’) to the ovaries of POF patients could lead to effective clinical outcomes. Assessment of MSCs’ effect for single transplantation was performed using 3 transplantation methods. MSCs into ovaries by ovarian local injection was determined as the most effective route. This technique exerted marked effect on antagonizing age-associated ovarian hypofunction. Histopathological data showed that no neoplasms and obvious prosoplasia were found after MSCs transplantation.
Introduction The transplantation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in patients with premature ovarian failure (POF) could lead to clinical improvement. The transplantation to the ovaries among other transplantation methods have been reported in various animal models, however, there is little evidence regarding the optimal method, including the clinical safety and the efficiency for the treatment of age associated ovarian hypofunction. Objectives To establish the most effective transplantation route of MSCs, explore the resistance to therapy, its safety and role in the natural aging process of the ovaries. Methods Highly purified MSCs were injected intraperitoneally, directly into the ovaries or tail-intravenously in mice animal model. The ovarian function, quantity and quality of oocytes, cell viability/apoptosis, were evaluated, applying chemiluminescence analysis (CLIA), western blotting, immunofluorescence staining, transmission electron microscope (TEM), TdT mediated dUTP Nick End Labeling (TUNEL) assay and other techniques. The organ tumorigenicity was also evaluated by long-term observation and histopathological examination. The efficiency of MSCs was further verified in non-human primates by the most effective transplantation route. Results The 32nd week was ultimately determined as the time point of MSCs transplantation. Our results showed that the intra-ovarian injection was the best transplantation method with a more conspicuous effect. With deeper investigations, we found that the transplanted MSCs showed an effective influence on the follicular number, promoted follicle maturation and inhibited cell apoptosis, which was further verified in non-human primates. In addition, the long-term observation and the histopathological examinations ruled out neoplasms or obvious prosoplasia after MSCs transplantation. Conclusion MSCs transplantation by intra-ovarian injection could within a month exert the most conspicuous anti-age-associated ovarian hypofunction effects, which may improve the quantity and quality of oocytes by changing the mitochondrial structure, regulating mitochondrial function and attenuating cell apoptosis to increase the storage of the follicle pool without a remarkable potential of tumorigenicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingjuan Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Qiaojuan Mei
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Center of Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Qin Xie
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Huiying Li
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Center of Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Ping Su
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Center of Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Ling Zhang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Center of Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Kezhen Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Ding Ma
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Gang Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
- Corresponding authors.
| | - Jing Li
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- Corresponding authors.
| | - Wenpei Xiang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Center of Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
- Corresponding authors.
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Maher JY, Islam MS, Yin O, Brennan J, Gough E, Driggers P, Segars J. The role of Hippo pathway signaling and A-kinase anchoring protein 13 in primordial follicle activation and inhibition. F&S SCIENCE 2022; 3:118-129. [PMID: 35560009 PMCID: PMC11096729 DOI: 10.1016/j.xfss.2022.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Revised: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine whether the mechanotransduction and pharmacomanipulation of A-kinase anchoring protein 13 (AKAP13) altered Hippo signaling pathway transcription and growth factors in granulosa cells. Primary ovarian insufficiency is the depletion or dysfunction of primordial ovarian follicles. In vitro activation of ovarian tissue in patients with primary ovarian insufficiency alters the Hippo and phosphatase and tensin homolog/phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B/forkhead box O3 pathways. A-kinase anchoring protein 13 is found in granulosa cells and may regulate the Hippo pathway via F-actin polymerization resulting in altered nuclear yes-associated protein (YAP)/transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif coactivators and Tea domain family (TEAD) transcription factors. DESIGN Laboratory studies. SETTING Translational science laboratory. PATIENT(S) None. INTERVENTION(S) COV434 cells, derived from a primary human granulosa tumor cell line, were studied under different cell density and well stiffness conditions. Cells were transfected with a TEAD-luciferase (TEAD-luc) reporter as well as expression constructs for AKAP13 or AKAP13 mutants and then treated with AKAP13 activators, inhibitors, and follicle-stimulating hormone. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) TEAD gene activation or inhibition was measured by TEAD-luciferase assays. The messenger ribonucleic acid levels of Hippo pathway signaling molecules, including connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), baculoviral inhibitors of apoptosis repeat-containing 5, Ankyrin repeat domain-containing protein 1, YAP1, and TEAD1, were measured by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. Protein expressions for AKAP13, CTGF, YAP1, and TEAD1 were measured using Western blot. RESULT(S) Increased TEAD-luciferase activity and expression of markers for cellular growth were associated with decreased cell density, increased well stiffness, and AKAP13 activator (A02) treatment. Additionally, decreased TEAD-luc activity and expression of markers for cellular growth were associated with AKAP13 inhibitor (A13) treatment, including a reduced expression of the BIRC5 and ANKRD1 (YAP-responsive genes) transcript levels and CTGF protein levels. There were no changes in TEAD-luc with follicle-stimulating hormone treatment, supporting Hippo pathway involvement in the gonadotropin-independent portion of folliculogenesis. CONCLUSION(S) These findings suggest that AKAP13 mediates Hippo-regulated changes in granulosa cell growth via mechanotransduction and pharmacomanipulation. The AKAP13 regulation of the Hippo pathway may represent a potential target for regulation of follicle activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacqueline Yano Maher
- Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland; Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland; Children's National Medical Center, Washington, D.C..
| | | | - Ophelia Yin
- David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California
| | | | - Ethan Gough
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Paul Driggers
- Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - James Segars
- Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
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Fibroblast growth factor-2 promotes in vitro activation of cat primordial follicles. ZYGOTE 2022; 30:730-734. [PMID: 35416145 DOI: 10.1017/s0967199421000964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
This study evaluated the effect of fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF-2) on the morphology, primordial follicle activation and growth after in vitro culture of domestic cat ovarian tissue. Ovaries (n = 12) from prepubertal domestic cats were collected and fragmented. One fragment was fixed for histological analysis (fresh control). The remaining fragments were incubated in control medium alone or with 10, 50 or 100 ng/ml FGF-2 for 7 days. After in vitro culture, the following endpoints were analyzed: morphology, activation by counting primordial and developing follicles, and growth (follicle and oocyte diameters). Treatment with 100 ng/ml FGF-2 maintained (P > 0.05) the percentage of normal follicles similar to fresh control. Follicle survival was greater (P < 0.05) after culture in 100 ng/ml FGF-2 than in 50 ng/ml FGF-2. The percentage of primordial follicles decreased (P < 0.05) and the percentage of developing follicles increased (P < 0.05) in all treatments compared with fresh tissue. The proportion of developing follicles increased (P < 0.05) in tissues incubated with 100 ng/ml FGF-2 compared with control medium and other FGF-2 concentrations. Furthermore, culture in 10 or 100 ng/ml FGF-2 resulted in increased (P < 0.05) follicle and oocyte diameters compared with fresh tissues and MEM+. In conclusion, FGF-2 at 100 ng/ml maintains follicle survival and promotes the in vitro activation and growth of cat primordial follicles.
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Díaz-García C, Herraiz S, Pamplona L, Subirá J, Soriano MJ, Simon C, Seli E, Pellicer A. Follicular activation in women previously diagnosed with poor ovarian response: a randomized, controlled trial. Fertil Steril 2022; 117:747-755. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2021.12.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Revised: 12/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
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Dri M, Klinger FG, De Felici M. The ovarian reserve as target of insulin/IGF and ROS in metabolic disorder-dependent ovarian dysfunctions. REPRODUCTION AND FERTILITY 2022; 2:R103-R112. [PMID: 35118400 PMCID: PMC8801032 DOI: 10.1530/raf-21-0038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
It is known for a long time that metabolic disorders can cause ovarian dysfunctions and affect a woman’s fertility either by direct targeting follicular cells and/or the oocytes or by indirect interference with the pituitary-hypothalamic axis, resulting in dysfunctional oogenesis. Such disorders may also influence the efficiency of the embryo implantation and the quality of the embryo with permanent effects on the fertility and health of the offspring. Thanks to the expanding knowledge on the molecular mechanisms governing oogenesis and folliculogenesis in mammals, we are beginning to understand how such disorders can negatively affect this process and consequently fertility in women. In the present review, we point out and discuss how the disturbance of insulin/IGF-dependent signalling and increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) level in the ovary typically associated to metabolic disorders such as type II diabetes and obesity can dysregulate the dynamics of the ovarian reserve and/or impair the survival and competence of the oocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Dri
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Massimo De Felici
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
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Ghezelayagh Z, Khoshdel-Rad N, Ebrahimi B. Human ovarian tissue in-vitro culture: primordial follicle activation as a new strategy for female fertility preservation. Cytotechnology 2022; 74:1-15. [PMID: 35185282 PMCID: PMC8816997 DOI: 10.1007/s10616-021-00510-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Cryopreservation and transplantation of ovarian tissue is the only fertility preservation option used for prepubertal girls and women who don't have a chance for embryo or oocyte vitrification. For women with aggressive cancer, hormone-responsive malignancies, autoimmune diseases, etc. ovary transplantation cannot be performed so an alternative technology called in-vitro follicle activation is thinkable. In this method, dormant primordial follicles are activated from the resting primordial pool by in-vitro culture and enter their growth phase. Different in-vitro culture media and supplements in addition to various culturing methods have been conducted for activating these dormant follicles. Furthermore, several signaling pathways such as Hippo, phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase, and mTOR influence follicle activation. Therefore, the addition of different activators of these signaling pathways can beneficially regulate this culture system. This review summarizes the findings on different aspects of human ovarian tissue culture strategies for in-vitro follicular activation, their medium, and different factors involved in this activation. Afterward, signaling pathways important for follicle activation and their clinical applications towards improving activation in culture are also reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeinab Ghezelayagh
- Department of Embryology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Developmental Biology, Faculty of Basic Sciences and Advanced Technologies in Biology, University of Science and Culture, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Niloofar Khoshdel-Rad
- Department of Developmental Biology, Faculty of Basic Sciences and Advanced Technologies in Biology, University of Science and Culture, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Stem Cell and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Bita Ebrahimi
- Department of Embryology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
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