1
|
Dilimulati K, Yulin Z, Imai FL, Yonezawa N. N-Glycosylation Site in the Middle Region Is Involved in the Sperm-Binding Activity of Bovine Zona Pellucida Glycoproteins ZP3 and ZP4. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1636. [PMID: 38002318 PMCID: PMC10669178 DOI: 10.3390/biom13111636] [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: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Mammalian fertilization is a species-selective event that involves a series of interactions between sperm proteins and the oocyte's zona pellucida (ZP) glycoproteins. Bovine ZP consists of three glycoproteins: bZP2, bZP3, and bZP4. In our previous study, we demonstrated that bovine sperm binds to plastic wells coated with recombinant bZP4 and identified that the N-terminal domain and the middle region of bZP4 are critical for sperm-binding activity. Here, we investigated the sperm-binding site in the middle region (residues 290 to 340) of bZP4, which includes the hinge region. We showed that bovine sperm binds to bZP4's middle region in a species-selective manner. We mapped the function of bZP4's middle region to its N-glycosylation site at Asn-314 using several recombinant mutated proteins. Moreover, we showed that mutations of the N-glycosylation sites at Asn-314 close to the hinge region and Asn-146 of the hinge region of bZP4 and bZP3, respectively, reduced the sperm-binding activity of the complex of the bZP3 (from 32 to 178) and bZP4 (from 136 to 464) fragments. Together, these results suggest that ZP's middle regions of bZP3 and bZP4 form one of the sperm-binding sites of bovine ZP.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kamila Dilimulati
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Chiba University, Chiba 263-8522, Japan; (K.D.); (F.L.I.)
| | - Zhang Yulin
- Department of Quantum Life Science, Graduate School of Science and Engineering, Chiba University, Chiba 263-8522, Japan;
| | - Fabiana Lica Imai
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Chiba University, Chiba 263-8522, Japan; (K.D.); (F.L.I.)
| | - Naoto Yonezawa
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Chiba University, Chiba 263-8522, Japan; (K.D.); (F.L.I.)
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Dilimulati K, Orita M, Yonahara Y, Imai FL, Yonezawa N. Identification of Sperm-Binding Sites in the N-Terminal Domain of Bovine Egg Coat Glycoprotein ZP4. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23020762. [PMID: 35054946 PMCID: PMC8775842 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23020762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Revised: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The species-selective interaction between sperm and egg at the beginning of mammalian fertilisation is partly mediated by a transparent envelope called the zona pellucida (ZP). The ZP is composed of three or four glycoproteins (ZP1-ZP4). The functions of the three proteins present in mice (ZP1-ZP3) have been extensively studied. However, the biological role of ZP4, which was found in all other mammals studied so far, has remained largely unknown. Previously, by developing a solid support assay system, we showed that ZP4 exhibits sperm-binding activity in bovines and the N-terminal domain of bovine ZP4 (bZP4 ZP-N1 domain) is a sperm-binding region. Here, we show that bovine sperm bind to the bZP4 ZP-N1 domain in a species-selective manner and that N-glycosylation is not required for sperm-binding activity. Moreover, we identified three sites involved in sperm binding (site I: from Gln-41 to Pro-46, site II: from Leu-65 to Ser-68 and site III: from Thr-108 to Ile-123) in the bZP4 ZP-N1 domain using chimeric bovine/porcine and bovine/human ZP4 recombinant proteins. These results provide in vitro experimental evidence for the role of the bZP4 ZP-N1 domain in mediating sperm binding to the ZP.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kamila Dilimulati
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Chiba University, Chiba 263-8522, Japan; (K.D.); (M.O.); (F.L.I.)
| | - Misaki Orita
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Chiba University, Chiba 263-8522, Japan; (K.D.); (M.O.); (F.L.I.)
| | - Yoshiki Yonahara
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Chiba University, Chiba 263-8522, Japan;
| | - Fabiana Lica Imai
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Chiba University, Chiba 263-8522, Japan; (K.D.); (M.O.); (F.L.I.)
| | - Naoto Yonezawa
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Chiba University, Chiba 263-8522, Japan; (K.D.); (M.O.); (F.L.I.)
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Dilimulati K, Orita M, Undram G, Yonezawa N. Sperm-binding regions on bovine egg zona pellucida glycoprotein ZP4 studied in a solid supported form on plastic plate. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0254234. [PMID: 34242308 PMCID: PMC8270413 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0254234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The zona pellucida (ZP) is a transparent envelope that surrounds the mammalian oocyte and mediates species-selective sperm-oocyte interactions. The bovine ZP consists of the glycoproteins ZP2, ZP3, and ZP4. Sperm-binding mechanisms of the bovine ZP are not yet fully elucidated. In a previous report, we established the expression system of bovine ZP glycoproteins using Sf9 insect cells and found that the ZP3/ZP4 heterocomplex inhibits the binding of sperm to the ZP in a competitive inhibition assay, while ZP2, ZP3, ZP4, the ZP2/ZP3 complex, and the ZP2/ZP4 complex do not exhibit this activity. Here, we show that bovine sperm binds to plastic plates coated with ZP4 in the absence of ZP3. We made a series of ZP4 deletion mutants to study the sperm-binding sites. The N-terminal region, Lys-25 to Asp-136, and the middle region, Ser-290 to Lys-340, of ZP4 exhibit sperm-binding activity. These results suggest that among the three components of bovine ZP glycoproteins, ZP4 contains the major potential sperm-binding sites, and the formation of a multivalent complex is necessary for the sperm-binding activity of ZP4.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kamila Dilimulati
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Misaki Orita
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Ganbat Undram
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Naoto Yonezawa
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Zeng MH, Wang Y, Huang HL, Quan RP, Yang JT, Guo D, Sun Y, Lv C, Li TY, Wang L, Tan HJ, Long PP, Deng HW, Xiao HM. Zp4 is completely dispensable for fertility in female rats†. Biol Reprod 2021; 104:1282-1291. [PMID: 33709118 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioab047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2020] [Revised: 11/13/2020] [Accepted: 03/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Zona pellucida (ZP), which is composed of at most four extracellular glycoproteins (ZP1, ZP2, ZP3, and ZP4) in mammals, shelters the oocytes and is vital in female fertility. Several studies have identified the indispensable roles of ZP1-3 in maintaining normal female fertility. However, the understanding of ZP4 is still very poor because only one study on ZP4-associated infertility performed in rabbits has been reported up to date. Here we investigated the function of mammalian Zp4 by creating a knockout (KO) rat strain (Zp4-/- rat) using CRISPR-Cas9-mediated DNA-editing method. The influence of Zp4 KO on ZP morphology and some pivotal processes of reproduction, including oogenesis, ovulation, fertilization, and pup production, were studied using periodic acid-Schiff's staining, superovulation, in vitro fertilization, and natural mating. The ZP morphology in Zp4-/- rats was normal, and none of these pivotal processes was affected. This study renewed the knowledge of mammalian Zp4 by suggesting that Zp4 was completely dispensable for female fertility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ming-Hua Zeng
- Institute of Reproductive & Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Center of Reproductive Health,School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Yan Wang
- Institute of Reproductive & Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Center of Reproductive Health,School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Hua-Lin Huang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Ru-Ping Quan
- Institute of Reproductive & Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Center of Reproductive Health,School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jun-Ting Yang
- Institute of Reproductive & Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Center of Reproductive Health,School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Dan Guo
- Institute of Reproductive & Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Center of Reproductive Health,School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Ying Sun
- Institute of Reproductive & Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Center of Reproductive Health,School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Chao Lv
- Changsha Reproductive Medicine Hospital, Changsha, China
| | - Tian-Ying Li
- Institute of Reproductive & Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Center of Reproductive Health,School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Le Wang
- Institute of Reproductive & Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Center of Reproductive Health,School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Hang-Jin Tan
- Institute of Reproductive & Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Center of Reproductive Health,School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Pan-Pan Long
- Institute of Reproductive & Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Center of Reproductive Health,School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Hong-Wen Deng
- Center for Bioinformatics and Genomics, Department of Global Biostatistics and Data Science, School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA.,Center of System Biology and Data Information, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Hong-Mei Xiao
- Institute of Reproductive & Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Center of Reproductive Health,School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Moya AC, Acuña F, Díaz Andrade MC, Barbeito CG, Galíndez EJ. Glycan expression as a tool for a deeper understanding of a reproductive gland in a skate of economic importance. JOURNAL OF FISH BIOLOGY 2021; 98:537-547. [PMID: 33094844 DOI: 10.1111/jfb.14597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Revised: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 10/21/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Atlantoraja platana is an oviparous skate endemic to the south-west Atlantic Ocean, and is one of the skate species most exploited by local industrial bottom trawl fisheries. Oviparous elasmobranchs encapsulate their eggs in complex egg cases produced by the oviductal gland (OG). This organ is exclusively present in these fishes and comprises four distinct zones: club, baffle, papillary and terminal. The relative size and structural complexity of these zones correlate with mode of reproduction. Glycans are known to play major roles in reproduction so their distribution in each zone of the OG could explain the functional multiplicity of the gland in skates, but this topic has not been previously investigated. In this study, morphological, histochemical and lectin-histochemical analysis revealed various novel aspects of A. platana's OG. The club, papillary and terminal zones positively stained for periodic acid Schiff's reagent (PAS) and Alcian Blue (AB), indicating the presence of neutral and acid mucopolysaccharides. However, the buffle zone was negative for PAS and AB stains, but was positive for all the lectins used. Each zone of the OG had a characteristic pattern of glycan expression. Finally, we confirmed the presence of sperm but not sperm storage. This is the first lectin-histochemical study of the OG in chondrichtyan fish and it has proven to be an important tool to understand some of the mechanisms of fertility and reproductive success in economic important species such as A. platana.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ana Carolina Moya
- Laboratorio de Citología, Histología y Embriología Animal, DBByF, UNS, Bahía Blanca, Argentina
- INBIOSUR (CONICET-UNS), Bahía Blanca, Argentina
| | - Francisco Acuña
- Laboratorio de Histología y Embriología Descriptiva, Experimental y Comparada, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, La Plata, Argentina
- CONICET, CCT-La Plata, La Plata, Argentina
| | - María Constanza Díaz Andrade
- Laboratorio de Citología, Histología y Embriología Animal, DBByF, UNS, Bahía Blanca, Argentina
- INBIOSUR (CONICET-UNS), Bahía Blanca, Argentina
| | - Claudio Gustavo Barbeito
- Laboratorio de Histología y Embriología Descriptiva, Experimental y Comparada, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, La Plata, Argentina
- CONICET, CCT-La Plata, La Plata, Argentina
| | - Elena Juana Galíndez
- Laboratorio de Citología, Histología y Embriología Animal, DBByF, UNS, Bahía Blanca, Argentina
- INBIOSUR (CONICET-UNS), Bahía Blanca, Argentina
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Ligands and Receptors Involved in the Sperm-Zona Pellucida Interactions in Mammals. Cells 2021; 10:cells10010133. [PMID: 33445482 PMCID: PMC7827414 DOI: 10.3390/cells10010133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2020] [Revised: 01/04/2021] [Accepted: 01/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Sperm-zona pellucida (ZP) interaction, involving the binding of sperm surface ligands to complementary carbohydrates of ZP, is the first direct gamete contact event crucial for subsequent gamete fusion and successful fertilization in mammals. It is a complex process mediated by the coordinated engagement of multiple ZP receptors forming high-molecular-weight (HMW) protein complexes at the acrosomal region of the sperm surface. The present article aims to review the current understanding of sperm-ZP binding in the four most studied mammalian models, i.e., murine, porcine, bovine, and human, and summarizes the candidate ZP receptors with established ZP affinity, including their origins and the mechanisms of ZP binding. Further, it compares and contrasts the ZP structure and carbohydrate composition in the aforementioned model organisms. The comprehensive understanding of sperm-ZP interaction mechanisms is critical for the diagnosis of infertility and thus becomes an integral part of assisted reproductive therapies/technologies.
Collapse
|
7
|
Mammalian spermatozoa and cumulus cells bind to a 3D model generated by recombinant zona pellucida protein-coated beads. Sci Rep 2019; 9:17989. [PMID: 31784633 PMCID: PMC6884566 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-54501-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2019] [Accepted: 11/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The egg is a spherical cell encapsulated by the zona pellucida (ZP) which forms a filamentous matrix composed of several glycoproteins that mediate gamete recognition at fertilization. Studies on molecular mechanisms of sperm-egg binding are limited in many mammalian species by the scarcity of eggs, by ethical concerns in harvesting eggs, and by the high cost of producing genetically modified animals. To address these limitations, we have reproduced a three-dimensional (3D) model mimicking the oocyte's shape, by means of magnetic sepharose beads coated with recombinant ZP glycoproteins (BZP) and cumulus cells. Three preparations composed of either ZP2 (C and N-termini; BZP2), ZP3 (BZP3) or ZP4 (BZP4) were obtained and characterized by protein SDS-PAGE, immunoblot and imaging with confocal and electron microscopy. The functionality of the model was validated by adhesion of cumulus cells, the ability of the glycoprotein-beads to support spermatozoa binding and induce acrosome exocytosis. Thus, our findings document that ZP-beads provide a novel 3D tool to investigate the role of specific proteins on egg-sperm interactions becoming a relevant tool as a diagnostic predictor of mammalian sperm function once transferred to the industry.
Collapse
|
8
|
Acuña F, Tano de la Hoz MF, Díaz AO, Portiansky EL, Barbeito CG, Flamini MA. Histochemistry of the zona pellucida of the ovary of a species with natural polyovulation: Lagostomus maximus
(Rodentia, Hystricomorpha, Chinchillidae). Reprod Domest Anim 2018; 54:207-215. [DOI: 10.1111/rda.13333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2018] [Accepted: 08/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Francisco Acuña
- Laboratorio de Histología y Embriología Descriptiva, Experimental y Comparada, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias; Universidad Nacional de La Plata (LHYEDEYC, FCV-UNLP); La Plata Argentina
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET); Buenos Aires Argentina
| | - María F. Tano de la Hoz
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET); Buenos Aires Argentina
- Instituto de Investigaciones Marinas y Costeras, Departamento de Biología, Facultad de Ciencias Naturales y Exactas; Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (IIMyC, FCEyN-UNMDP-CONICET); Mar del Plata Argentina
| | - Alcira O. Díaz
- Instituto de Investigaciones Marinas y Costeras, Departamento de Biología, Facultad de Ciencias Naturales y Exactas; Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (IIMyC, FCEyN-UNMDP-CONICET); Mar del Plata Argentina
| | - Enrique L. Portiansky
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET); Buenos Aires Argentina
- Laboratorio de Análisis de Imágenes, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias; Universidad Nacional de La Plata (LAI, FCV-UNLP); La Plata Argentina
| | - Claudio G. Barbeito
- Laboratorio de Histología y Embriología Descriptiva, Experimental y Comparada, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias; Universidad Nacional de La Plata (LHYEDEYC, FCV-UNLP); La Plata Argentina
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET); Buenos Aires Argentina
| | - Mirta A. Flamini
- Laboratorio de Histología y Embriología Descriptiva, Experimental y Comparada, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias; Universidad Nacional de La Plata (LHYEDEYC, FCV-UNLP); La Plata Argentina
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
The Hinge Region of Bovine Zona Pellucida Glycoprotein ZP3 Is Involved in the Formation of the Sperm-Binding Active ZP3/ZP4 Complex. Biomolecules 2015; 5:3339-53. [PMID: 26610590 PMCID: PMC4693281 DOI: 10.3390/biom5043339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2015] [Revised: 10/31/2015] [Accepted: 11/16/2015] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
The zona pellucida (ZP) surrounds the mammalian oocyte and mediates species-selective sperm-oocyte interactions. Bovine ZP consists of glycoproteins ZP2, ZP3, and ZP4. Neither ZP3 nor ZP4 alone shows inhibitory activity for the binding of sperm to the ZP; however, this activity is seen with the ZP3/ZP4 heterocomplex. Here, we constructed a series of bovine ZP3 mutants to identify the ZP4-binding site on ZP3. Each ZP3 mutant was co-expressed with ZP4 using a baculovirus-Sf9 cell expression system and examined for interaction with ZP4 as well as inhibitory activity for sperm-ZP binding. N-terminal fragment Arg-32 to Arg-160 of ZP3 interacted with ZP4 and inhibited sperm-ZP binding, whereas fragment Arg-32 to Thr-155 showed much weaker interaction with ZP4. Mutation of N-glycosylated Asn-146 to Asp in the N-terminal fragment Arg-32 to Glu-178 of ZP3 did not interrupt the interaction of this fragment with ZP4, but it did reduce the inhibitory activity of the complex for sperm-ZP binding. In contrast, mutation of N-glycosylated Asn-124 to Asp did not significantly reduce the activity. Taken together, these results suggest that one of the ZP4 binding sites exists in the flexible hinge region of ZP3 and that the N-glycosylation in this region is involved in the sperm binding.
Collapse
|
10
|
A role for carbohydrate recognition in mammalian sperm-egg binding. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2014; 450:1195-203. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2014.06.051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2014] [Accepted: 06/11/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
|
11
|
Chiu PCN, Lam KKW, Wong RCW, Yeung WSB. The identity of zona pellucida receptor on spermatozoa: an unresolved issue in developmental biology. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2014; 30:86-95. [PMID: 24747367 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2014.04.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2014] [Revised: 04/04/2014] [Accepted: 04/07/2014] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Mammalian oocytes are surrounded by an acellular zona pellucida (ZP). Fertilization begins when a capacitated spermatozoon binds to the ZP. Defective sperm-ZP interaction is a cause of male infertility and reduced fertilization rates in clinical assisted reproduction treatment. Despite the importance of spermatozoa-ZP binding, the mechanisms and regulation of the interaction are unclear partly due to the failure in the identification of ZP receptor on spermatozoa. Most of the previous studies assumed that the sperm ZP receptor is a single molecular species, and a number of potential candidates had been suggested. Yet none of them can be considered as the sole sperm ZP receptor. Accumulated evidence suggested that the sperm ZP receptor is a dynamic multi-molecular structure requiring coordinated action of different proteins that are assembled into a functional complex during post-testicular maturation and capacitation. The complex components may include carbohydrate-binding, protein-binding and acrosomal matrix proteins which work as a suite to mediate spermatozoa-ZP interaction. This article aims to review the latest insights in the identification of the sperm ZP receptor. Continued investigation of the area will provide considerable understanding of the regulation of fertilization that will be useful for practical application in human contraception and reproductive medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Philip C N Chiu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, China; Centre of Reproduction, Development and Growth, LKS Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, China
| | - Kevin K W Lam
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, China
| | - Rachel C W Wong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, China
| | - William S B Yeung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, China; Centre of Reproduction, Development and Growth, LKS Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, China.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Posttranslational modifications of zona pellucida proteins. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2014; 759:111-40. [PMID: 25030762 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-0817-2_6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The zona pellucida (ZP), which surrounds the mammalian oocyte, functions in various aspects of fertilization. The ZP consists of three or four glycoproteins, which are derived from transmembrane proteins that lack the ability to self-assemble. Following posttranslational processing at specific sites, ectodomains of ZP precursor proteins are released from the membrane and begin to form a matrix. Glycosylational modification is thought to be involved in species-selective sperm recognition by ZP proteins. However, in mice, the supramolecular structure of the zona matrix is also important in sperm recognition. One ZP protein, ZP2, is processed at a specific site upon fertilization by ovastacin, which is released from cortical granules inside the oocyte. This phenomenon is involved in the block to polyspermy. The proteolysis of ubiquitinated ZP proteins by a sperm-associated proteasome is involved in penetration of the zona matrix by sperm, at least in the pigs. Thus, the posttranslational modification of ZP proteins is closely tied to ZP formation and the regulation of sperm-oocyte interactions.
Collapse
|
13
|
Gupta N, Chakrabarti K, Prakash K, Wadhwa N, Gupta T, Gupta SK. Immunogenicity and Contraceptive Efficacy ofEscherichia coli-Expressed Recombinant Porcine Zona Pellucida Proteins. Am J Reprod Immunol 2013; 70:139-52. [DOI: 10.1111/aji.12095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2012] [Accepted: 01/19/2013] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Neha Gupta
- Reproductive Cell Biology Laboratory; National Institute of Immunology; New Delhi; India
| | - Kausiki Chakrabarti
- Reproductive Cell Biology Laboratory; National Institute of Immunology; New Delhi; India
| | - Krishna Prakash
- Reproductive Cell Biology Laboratory; National Institute of Immunology; New Delhi; India
| | - Neerja Wadhwa
- Embryo Biotechnology Laboratory; National Institute of Immunology; New Delhi; India
| | - Tripti Gupta
- Reproductive Cell Biology Laboratory; National Institute of Immunology; New Delhi; India
| | - Satish K. Gupta
- Reproductive Cell Biology Laboratory; National Institute of Immunology; New Delhi; India
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Takahashi K, Kikuchi K, Uchida Y, Kanai-Kitayama S, Suzuki R, Sato R, Toma K, Geshi M, Akagi S, Nakano M, Yonezawa N. Binding of Sperm to the Zona Pellucida Mediated by Sperm Carbohydrate-Binding Proteins is not Species-Specific in Vitro between Pigs and Cattle. Biomolecules 2013; 3:85-107. [PMID: 24970158 PMCID: PMC4030887 DOI: 10.3390/biom3010085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2012] [Revised: 01/07/2013] [Accepted: 01/16/2013] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Carbohydrates are candidates for the basis of species-selective interaction of gametes during mammalian fertilization. In this study, we sought to clarify the roles of sugar residues in the species-selective, sperm-oocyte interaction in pigs and cattle. Acrosome-intact porcine and bovine sperm exhibited their strongest binding affinities for β-Gal and α-Man residues, respectively. Porcine-sperm specificity changed from β-Gal to α-Man after the acrosome reaction, while bovine-sperm specificity did not. Binding of acrosome-intact and acrosome-reacted sperm decreased after trypsinization, indicating that the carbohydrate-binding components are proteins. While immature oocytes bound homologous sperm preferentially to heterologous sperm, oocytes matured in vitro bound similar numbers of homologous and heterologous sperm. Lectin staining revealed the aggregation of α-Man residues on the outer surface of the porcine zona during maturation. In both species, zona-free, mature oocytes bound homologous sperm preferentially to heterologous sperm. The lectin-staining patterns of the zona pellucida and zona-free oocytes coincided with the carbohydrate-binding specificities of acrosome-intact and acrosome-reacted sperm, respectively, supporting the involvement of carbohydrates in gamete recognition in pigs and cattle. These results also indicate that sperm-zona pellucida and sperm-oolemma bindings are not strictly species-specific in pigs and cattle, and further suggest that sperm penetration into the zona and/or fusion with oolemma may be species-specific between pigs and cattle.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kazuya Takahashi
- Graduate School of Science, Chiba University, Chiba 263-8522, Japan.
| | - Kazuhiro Kikuchi
- National Institute of Agrobiological Sciences, Ibaraki 305-8602, Japan.
| | - Yasuomi Uchida
- Graduate School of Science, Chiba University, Chiba 263-8522, Japan.
| | | | - Reiichiro Suzuki
- Graduate School of Science, Chiba University, Chiba 263-8522, Japan.
| | - Reiko Sato
- The Noguchi Institute, Tokyo 173-0003, Japan.
| | | | - Masaya Geshi
- National Institute of Livestock and Grassland Science, Ibaraki 305-0901, Japan.
| | - Satoshi Akagi
- National Institute of Livestock and Grassland Science, Ibaraki 305-0901, Japan.
| | - Minoru Nakano
- Graduate School of Science, Chiba University, Chiba 263-8522, Japan.
| | - Naoto Yonezawa
- Graduate School of Science, Chiba University, Chiba 263-8522, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Mori E, Fukuda H, Imajoh-Ohmi S, Mori T, Takasaki S. Purification of N-acetyllactosamine-binding activity from the porcine sperm membrane: possible involvement of an ADAM complex in the carbohydrate-binding activity of sperm. J Reprod Dev 2011; 58:117-25. [PMID: 22052010 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.11-108n] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Although the importance of carbohydrate recognition by sperm during egg zona pellucida binding has been widely reported, the sperm molecular species that recognize the carbohydrates are poorly characterized. Our previous cytochemical study indicated that two kinds of carbohydrate-binding proteins are expressed on porcine sperm heads-one recognizes N-acetyllactosamine (Galβ1-4GlcNAc-), and the other recognizes the Lewis X structure (Galβ1-4(Fucα1-3)GlcNAc-). For this report, we used proteomic techniques to characterize the sperm proteins that bind N-acetyllactosamine. Porcine sperm plasma membrane was solubilized with a detergent solution and subjected to sequential chromatography with dextran sulfate agarose, affinity, and hydroxyapatite, and the binding activities in the eluates were monitored by a solid-phase binding assay. The tryptic peptides of two proteins most likely associated with the binding activities were subjected to tandem mass spectrometry sequencing. A subsequent database search identified one of the two proteins as predicted disintegrin and metalloprotease domain-containing protein 20-like (XP_003128672). The other protein was identified as disintegrin and metalloprotease domain-containing protein 5 (AB613817) by database searches for homologous amino acid sequences, cDNA cloning, nucleotide sequencing and nucleotide database searches. Furthermore, two-dimensional blue native/SDS-PAGE demonstrated that they formed a variety of non-covalent complexes. Therefore, these ADAM complexes probably are responsible for the N-acetyllactosamine-binding activity. An affinity-purified fraction containing these ADAM complexes showed zona pellucida-binding activity, though the activity was relatively weak, and the presence of another zona pellucida-binding protein that probably works in concert with these ADAM complexes was suggested. Immunofluorescence testing suggested that ADAM20-like was localized on the anterior part of the sperm plasma membrane.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Etsuko Mori
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Medical Science, University of Tokyo, Tokyo 108-8639, Japan.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
Porcine zona pellucida glycoprotein ZP4 is responsible for the sperm-binding activity of the ZP3/ZP4 complex. ZYGOTE 2011; 20:389-97. [PMID: 22008510 DOI: 10.1017/s0967199411000608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
The zona pellucida (ZP) is a transparent envelope that surrounds the mammalian oocyte and mediates species-selective sperm-egg interactions. Porcine and bovine ZPs consist of glycoproteins ZP2, ZP3, and ZP4. In both pig and bovine a heterocomplex consisting of ZP3 and ZP4 binds to sperm, however it is not clarified whether ZP3 or ZP4 in the complex is responsible for the sperm binding. Previously, we have established a baculovirus-Sf9 cell expression system for porcine ZP glycoproteins. A mixture of recombinant ZP3 (rZP3) and rZP4 displayed sperm-binding activity toward bovine sperm but not porcine sperm, probably due to differences in carbohydrate structure between the native and recombinant ZP glycoproteins. In this study, a mixture of porcine rZP3 and native ZP4 (nZP4) inhibited the binding of porcine sperm to the ZP. In contrast, a mixture of porcine nZP3 and rZP4 did not inhibit the binding of porcine sperm, although the mixture inhibited the binding of bovine sperm. The porcine rZP3/nZP4 mixture bound to the acrosomal region of porcine sperm, in a manner similar to that of the nZP3/nZP4 mixture. nZP3 was precipitated with rZP4, and nZP4 was precipitated with rZP3 by utilising the N-terminal tags on the recombinant proteins. These results indicated that nZP4, but not rZP4, is necessary for binding activity of porcine ZP3/ZP4 complex towards porcine sperm and further suggested that the carbohydrate structures of ZP4 in the porcine ZP3/ZP4 complex are responsible for porcine sperm-binding activity of the complex.
Collapse
|
17
|
Clark GF. The mammalian zona pellucida: a matrix that mediates both gamete binding and immune recognition? Syst Biol Reprod Med 2011; 56:349-64. [PMID: 20662591 DOI: 10.3109/19396360903524812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The crucial cell adhesion events required for mammalian fertilization commence when spermatozoa bind to the specialized extracellular matrix of the oocyte, known as the zona pellucida (ZP). Bound gametes then undergo a signal transduction cascade known as acrosomal exocytosis that enables them to penetrate this matrix and fuse with the oocyte to create a new individual. The ZP is therefore the target of intense investigation in the mouse, pig, bovine, and human models. Major goals in such studies are to define the adhesion molecules, signal transduction pathways, and the molecular basis for the species-restricted binding of gametes. Evidence exists indicating that protein-carbohydrate and to a lesser extent protein-protein interactions play a role in the initial gamete binding. More recent findings in an unusual sperm-somatic cell adhesion system indicate that tri- and tetraantennary N-glycans mediate initial sperm-oocyte binding in both the murine and porcine models, but conflicting data exist. A novel paradigm designated the "domain specific model" will be presented that could explain these inconsistencies. Another potential functional role of the ZP is immune recognition. Both spermatozoa and oocytes lack major histocompatibility (MHC) class I molecules that mediate the recognition of self in the immune system. This absence makes gametes less susceptible to class I restricted cytotoxic T lymphocytes, but more vulnerable to natural killer (NK) cells. Therefore a "fail safe" system for NK cell recognition should exist on both types of gametes. Another issue is that oocytes could begin to express paternal major histocompatibility antigens during the blastocyst stage prior to hatching, and thus mechanisms could also be in place to block the development of maternal adaptive immune responses. An enhanced understanding of these issues could facilitate the development of superior infertility treatments and contraceptive strategies, and define central operating principles of immune recognition in the female reproductive system.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gary F Clark
- Division of Reproductive and Perinatal Research, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Harvey DJ. Analysis of carbohydrates and glycoconjugates by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry: an update for the period 2005-2006. MASS SPECTROMETRY REVIEWS 2011; 30:1-100. [PMID: 20222147 DOI: 10.1002/mas.20265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
This review is the fourth update of the original review, published in 1999, on the application of MALDI mass spectrometry to the analysis of carbohydrates and glycoconjugates and brings coverage of the literature to the end of 2006. The review covers fundamental studies, fragmentation of carbohydrate ions, method developments, and applications of the technique to the analysis of different types of carbohydrate. Specific compound classes that are covered include carbohydrate polymers from plants, N- and O-linked glycans from glycoproteins, glycated proteins, glycolipids from bacteria, glycosides, and various other natural products. There is a short section on the use of MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry for the study of enzymes involved in glycan processing, a section on industrial processes, particularly the development of biopharmaceuticals and a section on the use of MALDI-MS to monitor products of chemical synthesis of carbohydrates. Large carbohydrate-protein complexes and glycodendrimers are highlighted in this final section.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David J Harvey
- Department of Biochemistry, Oxford Glycobiology Institute, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3QU, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Ganguly A, Bansal P, Gupta T, Gupta SK. 'ZP domain' of human zona pellucida glycoprotein-1 binds to human spermatozoa and induces acrosomal exocytosis. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2010; 8:110. [PMID: 20831819 PMCID: PMC2944174 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-8-110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2010] [Accepted: 09/11/2010] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The human egg coat, zona pellucida (ZP), is composed of four glycoproteins designated as zona pellucida glycoprotein-1 (ZP1), -2 (ZP2), -3 (ZP3) and -4 (ZP4) respectively. The zona proteins possess the archetypal 'ZP domain', a signature domain comprised of approximately 260 amino acid (aa) residues. In the present manuscript, attempts have been made to delineate the functional significance of the 'ZP domain' module of human ZP1, corresponding to 273-551 aa fragment of human ZP1. METHODS Baculovirus-expressed, nickel-nitrilotriacetic acid affinity chromatography purified 'ZP domain' of human ZP1 was employed to assess its capability to bind and subsequently induce acrosomal exocytosis in capacitated human spermatozoa using tetramethyl rhodamine isothiocyanate conjugated Pisum sativum Agglutinin in absence or presence of various pharmacological inhibitors. Binding characteristics of ZP1 'ZP domain' were assessed employing fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC) labelled recombinant protein. RESULTS SDS-PAGE and immunoblot characterization of the purified recombinant protein (both from cell lysate as well as culture supernatant) revealed a doublet ranging from ~35-40 kDa. FITC- labelled 'ZP domain' of ZP1 binds primarily to the acrosomal cap of the capacitated human spermatozoa. A dose dependent increase in acrosomal exocytosis was observed when capacitated sperm were incubated with recombinant 'ZP domain' of human ZP1. The acrosome reaction mediated by recombinant protein was independent of Gi protein-coupled receptor pathway, required extra cellular calcium and involved both T- and L-type voltage operated calcium channels. CONCLUSIONS Results described in the present study suggest that the 'ZP domain' module of human ZP1 has functional activity and may have a role during fertilization in humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anasua Ganguly
- Reproductive Cell Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Immunology, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi-110 067, India
| | - Pankaj Bansal
- Reproductive Cell Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Immunology, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi-110 067, India
| | - Tripti Gupta
- Reproductive Cell Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Immunology, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi-110 067, India
| | - Satish K Gupta
- Reproductive Cell Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Immunology, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi-110 067, India
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Wassarman PM, Litscher ES. The multifunctional zona pellucida and mammalian fertilization. J Reprod Immunol 2009; 83:45-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2009.06.259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2008] [Revised: 04/10/2009] [Accepted: 06/26/2009] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
|
21
|
Litscher ES, Williams Z, Wassarman PM. Zona pellucida glycoprotein ZP3 and fertilization in mammals. Mol Reprod Dev 2009; 76:933-41. [DOI: 10.1002/mrd.21046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
|
22
|
SAKAGUCHI Y, IWATA H, KUWAYAMA T, MONJI Y. Effect of N-Acetyl-D-Glucosamine on Bovine Sperm-Oocyte Interactions. J Reprod Dev 2009; 55:676-84. [DOI: 10.1262/jrd.09-59h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
|
23
|
Chiu PC, Wong BS, Chung MK, Lam KK, Pang RT, Lee KF, Sumitro S, Gupta S, Yeung WS. Effects of Native Human Zona Pellucida Glycoproteins 3 and 4 on Acrosome Reaction and Zona Pellucida Binding of Human Spermatozoa. Biol Reprod 2008; 79:869-77. [DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.108.069344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
|
24
|
Kanai S, Kitayama T, Yonezawa N, Sawano Y, Tanokura M, Nakano M. Disulfide linkage patterns of pig zona pellucida glycoproteins ZP3 and ZP4. Mol Reprod Dev 2008; 75:847-56. [DOI: 10.1002/mrd.20836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
|
25
|
Kanai S, Yonezawa N, Ishii Y, Tanokura M, Nakano M. Recombinant bovine zona pellucida glycoproteins ZP3 and ZP4 coexpressed in Sf9 cells form a sperm-binding active hetero-complex. FEBS J 2007; 274:5390-405. [PMID: 17894824 DOI: 10.1111/j.1742-4658.2007.06065.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
The zona pellucida (ZP) is a transparent envelope that surrounds the mammalian oocyte and mediates species-selective sperm-egg interactions. Porcine and bovine ZPs are composed of the glycoproteins ZP2, ZP3, and ZP4. We previously established an expression system for porcine ZP glycoproteins (ZPGs) using baculovirus in insect Sf9 cells. Here we established a similar method for expression of bovine ZPGs. The recombinant ZPGs were secreted into the medium and purified by metal-chelating column chromatography. A mixture of bovine recombinant ZP3 (rZP3) and rZP4 coexpressed in Sf9 cells exhibited inhibitory activity for bovine sperm-ZP binding similar to that of a native bovine ZPG mixture, whereas neither bovine rZP3 nor rZP4 inhibited binding. An immunoprecipitation assay revealed that the coexpressed rZP3/rZP4 formed a hetero-complex. We examined the functional domain structure of bovine rZP4 by constructing ZP4 mutants lacking the N-terminal domain or lacking both the N-terminal and trefoil domains. When either of these mutant proteins was coexpressed with bovine rZP3, the resulting mixtures exhibited inhibitory activity comparable to that of the bovine rZP3/rZP4 complex. Hetero-complexes of bovine rZP3 and porcine rZP4, or porcine rZP3 and bovine rZP4, also inhibited bovine sperm-ZP binding. Our results demonstrate that the N-terminal and trefoil domains of bovine rZP4 are dispensable for formation of the sperm-binding active bovine rZP3/rZP4 complex and, furthermore, that the molecular interactions between rZP3 and rZP4 are conserved in the bovine and porcine systems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Saeko Kanai
- Graduate School of Science and Technology, Chiba University, Japan
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
26
|
Xu L, Shi SQ, Yang Y, Peng JP. Immunogenicity of four complementary deoxyribonucleic acid fragments from rabbit zona pellucida 3 and their effects on fertility. Fertil Steril 2007; 87:381-90. [PMID: 17113087 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2006.06.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2006] [Revised: 06/05/2006] [Accepted: 06/05/2006] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the exact region in different exons of rabbit zona pellucida (ZP)3 involved in recognition and binding between sperm and the ZP. DESIGN Prospective study of a female immunocontraceptive. SETTING State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences. ANIMAL(S) BALB/C mice. INTERVENTION(S) Immunization recombinant vaccines. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Oocyte immunofluorescence and immunohistochemistry. RESULT(S) The immunogenicity and effects on fertility of these four fragments we used were different. Except for the ZP domain, the other three fragments of rabbit ZP3 may be useful as antigen to elicit antibodies. Antiserum was specific and obvious. The fertility of mice after immunization decreased slightly compared with the control. CONCLUSION(S) The most effective fragment that is associated with the sperm binding was from sequences contained in exons 5-8 or oligosaccharide linked to this region. Exons 5-8 or oligosaccharide linked to this region may exist outside of the ZP matrix and be safe for use as the antigen. The ZP domain may be not related to the recognition and binding.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Li Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
27
|
Hardy CM, Beaton S, Hinds LA. Immunocontraception in mice using repeated, multi-antigen peptides: immunization with purified recombinant antigens. Mol Reprod Dev 2007; 75:126-35. [PMID: 17474093 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.20745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Two immunocontraceptive antigens (AgE and AgF) were constructed that included different combinations of highly species-specific peptides from the mouse reproductive antigens SP56, ZP3, ZP2, and ZP1 in the form of multi-antigen peptides (MAPs). Both AgE and AgF contained three tandem repeats each of ZP2 and ZP3 peptide epitopes and a single copy of a ZP1 peptide sequence all of which had previously been demonstrated to individually have immunodominant or contraceptive effects. In addition, AgF contained a single contraceptive peptide derived from SP56, the putative ZP3 receptor protein on sperm. The antigens were expressed and affinity purified as recombinant repeated multi-antigen (polyepitope) peptides using an Escherichia coli maltose binding protein (MBP) expression system. Female BALB/c mice actively immunized with these antigens in Freund's adjuvants produced variable serum antibody responses to the component peptides. Fertility rates for animals immunized with AgE (40%) and AgF (20%) were significantly reduced compared to MBP immunized mice (90%), but the reduction in fertility did not correlate with peptide-specific serum antibody levels. Ovaries from all immunized mice appeared histologically normal with no evidence of oophoritis. These results demonstrate that high levels of immunocontraception can be achieved in mice, without apparent side-effects, using species-specific immunogens that include repeated peptides from proteins involved in fertilization.
Collapse
|
28
|
Velásquez JG, Canovas S, Barajas P, Marcos J, Jiménez-Movilla M, Gallego RG, Ballesta J, Avilés M, Coy P. Role of sialic acid in bovine sperm–zona pellucida binding. Mol Reprod Dev 2007; 74:617-28. [PMID: 17044044 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.20619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Sperm binding activity has been detected in zona pellucida (ZP) glycoproteins and it is generally accepted that this activity resides in the carbohydrate moieties. In the present study we aim to identify some of the specific carbohydrate molecules involved in the bovine sperm-ZP interaction. We performed sperm binding competition assays, in vitro fecundation (IVF) in combination with different lectins, antibodies and neuraminidase digestion, and chemical and cytochemical analysis of the bovine ZP. Both MAA lectin recognising alpha-2,3-linked sialic acid and neuraminidase from Salmonella typhimurium with catalytic activity for alpha-2,3-linked sialic acid, demonstrated a high inhibitory effect on the sperm-ZP binding and oocyte penetration. These results suggest that bovine sperm-ZP binding is mediated by alpha-2,3-linked sialic acid. Experiments with trisaccharides (sialyllactose, 3'-sialyllactosamine and 6'-sialyllactosamine) and glycoproteins (fetuin and asialofetuin) corroborated this and suggest that at least the sequence Neu5Ac(alpha2-3)Gal(beta1-4)GlcNAc is involved in the sperm-ZP interaction. Moreover, these results indicate the presence of a sperm plasma membrane specific protein for the sialic acid. Chemical analysis revealed that bovine ZP glycoproteins contain mainly Neu5Ac (84.5%) and Neu5GC (15.5%). These two types of sialic acid residues are probably linked to Galbeta1,4GlcNAc and GalNAc by alpha-2,3- and alpha-2,6-linkages, respectively, as demonstrated by lectin cytochemical analysis. The use of a neuraminidase inhibitor resulted in an increased number of spermatozoa bound to the ZP and penetrating the oocyte. From this last result we hypothesize that a neuraminidase from cortical granules would probably participate in the block to polyspermy by removing sialic acid from the ZP.
Collapse
|
29
|
Caballero-Campo P, Chirinos M, Fan XJ, González-González ME, Galicia-Chavarría M, Larrea F, Gerton GL. Biological Effects of Recombinant Human Zona Pellucida Proteins on Sperm Function1. Biol Reprod 2006; 74:760-8. [PMID: 16407501 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.105.047522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
The initial interaction between gametes takes place at the level of the sperm surface and the zona pellucida (ZP), the extracellular matrix of the egg in mammals. Successful fertilization requires the proper molecular recognition of the ZP by the sperm. Recently, human ZP was demonstrated to be composed of four proteins: ZP1, ZP2, ZP3, and ZP4. The goals of this study were to determine the effects of recombinant human ZP2, ZP3, and ZP4 on human sperm acrosomal exocytosis and sperm motility. Exposure of sperm to ZP proteins, alone or in combination, promoted acrosomal exocytosis in a time-dependent manner. This effect occurred in parallel with a considerable decrease in progressive motility, coincident with an increase in nonprogressive sperm motility. An analysis of kinetic parameters of ZP-treated sperm demonstrated that a characteristic motility pattern could be defined by values of curvilinear velocity > 63.9 mum/s and linearity <or= 15.5%. A strong correlation between curvilinear velocity and the amplitude of lateral head displacement was also observed. The incidence of sperm having these particular kinetic parameters increased after exposure to ZP proteins. These studies of two processes involved in sperm penetration through the ZP confirm that zona glycoproteins promote acrosomal exocytosis and now establish an additional role for these components as modifiers of sperm motility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pedro Caballero-Campo
- Center for Research on Reproduction and Women's Health, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104-6080, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
30
|
Chalabi S, Panico M, Sutton-Smith M, Haslam SM, Patankar MS, Lattanzio FA, Morris HR, Clark GF, Dell A. Differential O-Glycosylation of a Conserved Domain Expressed in Murine and Human ZP3†. Biochemistry 2006; 45:637-47. [PMID: 16401092 DOI: 10.1021/bi0512804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Murine sperm initiate fertilization by binding to the zona pellucida (mZP), the specialized extracellular matrix of their homologous eggs. O-Glycans occupying two highly conserved vicinal glycosylation sites (Ser-332 and Ser-334) on the mZP glycoprotein designated mZP3 were previously implicated in this interaction. However, recent biophysical analyses confirm that neither site is occupied, implying that an alternate O-glycosylation domain may be operational in native mZP3. Since human ZP3 (huZP3) can substitute for mZP3 in rescue mice to mediate sperm binding, the site specificity of O-glycosylation in both native mZP3 and huZP3 was analyzed using ultrasensitive mass spectrometric techniques. Two O-glycosylation sites in native mZP3, one at Thr-155 and the other within the glycopeptide at positions 161-168 (ATVSSEEK), are conserved in huZP3 derived from transgenic mice. Thus, there is a specific O-glycosylation domain within native mZP3 expressing two closely spaced O-glycans that is very well conserved in an evolutionarily related glycoprotein. In native mZP3, core 2 O-glycans predominate at both sites. However, in huZP3 derived from rescue mice, the O-glycans associated with Thr-156 (analogous to Thr-155 in mZP3) are exclusively core 1 and related Tn sequences, whereas core 2 O-glycans predominate at the other conserved site. This unique restriction of O-glycan expression suggests that sequence differences in the conserved O-glycosylation domains of mZP3 and huZP3 affect the ability of core 2 N-acetylglucosaminyltransferase(s) to extend the core 1 sequence. However, this difference in O-glycosylation at Thr-156 does not affect the fertility or the sperm binding phenotype of eggs derived from female huZP3 rescue mice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sara Chalabi
- Division of Molecular Biosciences, Imperial College London, London SW7 2AZ, UK
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|