1
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Bahmanpour S, Moasses Z, Zarei-Fard N. Comparative effects of retinoic acid, granulosa cells conditioned medium or forskolin in combination with granulosa cell co-culturing on mouse germ cell differentiation. Mol Biol Rep 2023; 50:631-640. [PMID: 36371553 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-022-07920-1] [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: 06/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Devising of an appropriate in vitro culture method for germ cells differentiation in the presence of soluble factors has attracted considerable attention, which results will provide new insight into reproductive biology. In this study, we compared the effects of forskolin, retinoic acid (RA) or granulosa cell-conditioned medium in the presence or absence of granulosa cell co-culturing on germ cell differentiation from embryonic stem cells (ESCs). METHODS AND RESULTS Embryonic stem cells were differentiated using embryoid bodies (EBs) for 5 days, and then EB-derived cells were co-cultured with or without adult mouse granulosa cells using monolayer protocol and treated with 50 µM forskolin, 1 µM RA and 50% granulosa cell-conditioned medium for 4 days. Granulosa cell-conditioned medium significantly increased the levels of Scp3, Rec8, Mvh and Gdf9 expression in the granulosa cell co-culture method compared to untreated cells. A significant elevation of Stra8, Rec8 and Mvh was observed after treatment with RA in the absence of granulosa cells and there was no significant increase in the levels of expression of germ cell-specific genes after treatment with forskolin compared to control. Furthermore, forskolin and RA significantly increased viability and proliferation of germ-like cells, compared with granulosa cell-conditioned medium. CONCLUSIONS Our study revealed that granulosa cell-conditioned medium and RA effectively can induce germ cell differentiation from ESCs, however combined application of granulosa cell-conditioned medium and co-culturing with granulosa cells had synergic effect on germ cell development in vitro as optimized protocol.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soghra Bahmanpour
- Laboratory for stem cell research, Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Zia Moasses
- Laboratory for stem cell research, Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Nehleh Zarei-Fard
- Laboratory for stem cell research, Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran. .,Histomorphometry and Stereology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
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2
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Zhu Z, Xu W, Liu L. Ovarian aging: mechanisms and intervention strategies. MEDICAL REVIEW (BERLIN, GERMANY) 2022; 2:590-610. [PMID: 37724254 PMCID: PMC10471094 DOI: 10.1515/mr-2022-0031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 09/20/2023]
Abstract
Ovarian reserve is essential for fertility and influences healthy aging in women. Advanced maternal age correlates with the progressive loss of both the quantity and quality of oocytes. The molecular mechanisms and various contributing factors underlying ovarian aging have been uncovered. In this review, we highlight some of critical factors that impact oocyte quantity and quality during aging. Germ cell and follicle reserve at birth determines reproductive lifespan and timing the menopause in female mammals. Accelerated diminishing ovarian reserve leads to premature ovarian aging or insufficiency. Poor oocyte quality with increasing age could result from chromosomal cohesion deterioration and misaligned chromosomes, telomere shortening, DNA damage and associated genetic mutations, oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction and epigenetic alteration. We also discuss the intervention strategies to delay ovarian aging. Both the efficacy of senotherapies by antioxidants against reproductive aging and mitochondrial therapy are discussed. Functional oocytes and ovarioids could be rejuvenated from pluripotent stem cells or somatic cells. We propose directions for future interventions. As couples increasingly begin delaying parenthood in life worldwide, understanding the molecular mechanisms during female reproductive aging and potential intervention strategies could benefit women in making earlier choices about their reproductive health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengmao Zhu
- Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin, China
- Department of Genetics and Cell Biology, College of Life Science, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Wanxue Xu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Lin Liu
- Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin, China
- Department of Genetics and Cell Biology, College of Life Science, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Union Medical Center, Institute of Translational Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
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3
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Dong MH, Kim YY, Ku SY. Identification of Stem Cell-Like Cells in the Ovary. Tissue Eng Regen Med 2022; 19:675-685. [PMID: 35119648 PMCID: PMC9294092 DOI: 10.1007/s13770-021-00424-2] [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: 11/01/2021] [Revised: 12/12/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Understanding the function of stem cells and cellular microenvironments in in vitro oogenesis, including ovarian folliculogenesis, is crucial for reproductive biology. Because mammalian females cannot generate oocytes after birth, the number of oocyte decreases with the progression of reproductive age. Meanwhile, there is an emerging need for the neogenesis of female germ cells to treat the increasing infertility-related issues in cancer survivors. The concept of oocytes neogenesis came from the promising results of stem cells in reproductive medicine. The stem cells that generate oocytes are defined as stem cell-like cells in the ovary (OSCs). Several recent studies have focused on the origin, isolation, and characteristic of OSCs and the differentiation of OSCs into oocytes, ovarian follicles and granulosa cells. Hence, in this review, we focus on the experimental trends in OSC research and discuss the methods of OSC isolation. We further summarized the characteristics of OSCs and discuss the markers used to identify OSCs differentiated from various cell sources. We believe that this review will be beneficial for advancing the research and clinical applications of OSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myung Hoon Dong
- grid.31501.360000 0004 0470 5905Department of Premedicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, 103 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 03080 Korea
| | - Yoon Young Kim
- grid.412484.f0000 0001 0302 820XDepartment of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Hospital, 101 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 03080, Korea ,grid.31501.360000 0004 0470 5905Institute of Reproductive Medicine and Population, Medical Research Center, Seoul National University, 71 Ihwajang-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 03080 Korea
| | - Seung-Yup Ku
- grid.412484.f0000 0001 0302 820XDepartment of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Hospital, 101 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 03080, Korea ,grid.31501.360000 0004 0470 5905Institute of Reproductive Medicine and Population, Medical Research Center, Seoul National University, 71 Ihwajang-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 03080 Korea
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4
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Wang H, Liu L, Liu C, Wang L, Chen J, Wang H, Heng D, Zeng M, Liu C, Zhou Z, Ye X, Wan Y, Li H, Liu L. Induction of meiosis by embryonic gonadal somatic cells differentiated from pluripotent stem cells. Stem Cell Res Ther 2021; 12:607. [PMID: 34930450 PMCID: PMC8686525 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-021-02672-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Depletion of oocytes leads to ovarian aging-associated infertility, endocrine disruption and related diseases. Excitingly, unlimited oocytes can be generated by differentiation of primordial germ cell like cells (PGCLCs) from pluripotent stem cells. Nevertheless, development of oocytes and follicles from PGCLCs relies on developmentally matched gonadal somatic cells, only available from E12.5 embryos in mice. It is therefore imperative to achieve an in vitro source of E12.5 gonadal somatic cells. Methods We explored to identify small molecules, which can induce female embryonic stem cells (ESCs) into gonadal somatic cell like cells. Results Using RNA-sequencing, we identified signaling pathways highly upregulated in E12.5_gonadal somatic cells (E12.5_GSCs). Through searching for the activators of these pathways, we identified small-molecule compounds Vitamin C (Vc) and AM580 in combination (V580) for inducing differentiation of female embryonic stem cells (ESCs) into E12.5_GSC-like cells (E12.5_GSCLCs). After V580 treatment for 6 days and sorted by a surface marker CD63, the cell population yielded a transcriptome profile similar to that of E12.5_GSCs, which promoted meiosis progression and folliculogenesis of primordial germ cells. This approach will contribute to the study of germ cell and follicle development and oocyte production and have implications in potentially treating female infertility. Conclusion ESCs can be induced into embryonic gonadal somatic cell like cells by small molecules. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13287-021-02672-4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haiying Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China.,Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, College of Life Sciences; The Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials Ministry of Education, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Linlin Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China.,Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, College of Life Sciences; The Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials Ministry of Education, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Chang Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China.,Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, College of Life Sciences; The Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials Ministry of Education, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Lingling Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China.,Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, College of Life Sciences; The Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials Ministry of Education, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Jiyu Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China.,Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, College of Life Sciences; The Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials Ministry of Education, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Huasong Wang
- Department of Cell Biology, College of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Dai Heng
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China.,Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, College of Life Sciences; The Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials Ministry of Education, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Ming Zeng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chun Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China.,Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, College of Life Sciences; The Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials Ministry of Education, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Zhongcheng Zhou
- Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510655, China
| | - Xiaoying Ye
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China.,Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, College of Life Sciences; The Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials Ministry of Education, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Yajuan Wan
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Huiyu Li
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China.,Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, College of Life Sciences; The Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials Ministry of Education, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Lin Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China. .,Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, College of Life Sciences; The Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials Ministry of Education, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China. .,The Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, 94 Weijin Road, Tianjin, 300071, China.
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5
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Generation of developmentally competent oocytes and fertile mice from parthenogenetic embryonic stem cells. Protein Cell 2021; 12:947-964. [PMID: 34845589 PMCID: PMC8674391 DOI: 10.1007/s13238-021-00865-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Parthenogenetic embryos, created by activation and diploidization of oocytes, arrest at mid-gestation for defective paternal imprints, which impair placental development. Also, viable offspring has not been obtained without genetic manipulation from parthenogenetic embryonic stem cells (pESCs) derived from parthenogenetic embryos, presumably attributable to their aberrant imprinting. We show that an unlimited number of oocytes can be derived from pESCs and produce healthy offspring. Moreover, normal expression of imprinted genes is found in the germ cells and the mice. pESCs exhibited imprinting consistent with exclusively maternal lineage, and higher X-chromosome activation compared to female ESCs derived from the same mouse genetic background. pESCs differentiated into primordial germ cell-like cells (PGCLCs) and formed oocytes following in vivo transplantation into kidney capsule that produced fertile pups and reconstituted ovarian endocrine function. The transcriptome and methylation of imprinted and X-linked genes in pESC-PGCLCs closely resembled those of in vivo produced PGCs, consistent with efficient reprogramming of methylation and genomic imprinting. These results demonstrate that amplification of germ cells through parthenogenesis faithfully maintains maternal imprinting, offering a promising route for deriving functional oocytes and having potential in rebuilding ovarian endocrine function.
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6
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Watanabe R, Sasaki S, Kimura N. Activation of autophagy in early neonatal mice increases primordial follicle number and improves lifelong fertility†. Biol Reprod 2021; 102:399-411. [PMID: 31566206 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioz179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2019] [Revised: 08/21/2019] [Accepted: 09/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The number of stockpiled primordial follicles is thought to be responsible for the fate of female fertility and reproductive lifetime. We previously reported that starvation in nonsuckling early neonatal mice increases the number of primordial follicles with concomitant autophagy activation, suggesting that autophagy may accelerate the formation of primordial follicles. In this study, we attempted to upregulate the numbers of primordial follicles by administering an autophagy inducer and evaluated the progress of primordial follicle formation and their fertility during the life of the mice. To induce autophagy, mice were intraperitoneally injected with the Tat-beclin1 D-11 peptide (0.02 mg/g body weight) at 6-54 h or 60-84 h after birth. In animals that received Tat-beclin 1 D-11 by 54 h after birth, the primordial follicle numbers were significantly increased compared with the control group at 60 h. The ratio of expressed LC3-II/LC3-I proteins was also significantly greater. The numbers of littermates from pregnant females that had been treated with Tat-beclin 1 D-11 were maintained at remarkably greater levels until 10 months old. These results were supported by an abundance of primordial follicles at even 13-15 months old.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ren Watanabe
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Yamagata University, Tsuruoka, Japan.,Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS) Research Fellowships for Young Scientists, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Sho Sasaki
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Yamagata University, Tsuruoka, Japan
| | - Naoko Kimura
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Yamagata University, Tsuruoka, Japan
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7
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Heng D, Sheng X, Tian C, Li J, Liu L, Gou M, Liu L. Mtor inhibition by INK128 extends functions of the ovary reconstituted from germline stem cells in aging and premature aging mice. Aging Cell 2021; 20:e13304. [PMID: 33448083 PMCID: PMC7884035 DOI: 10.1111/acel.13304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2020] [Revised: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Stem cell transplantation has been generally considered as promising therapeutics in preserving or recovering functions of lost, damaged, or aging tissues. Transplantation of primordial germ cells (PGCs) or oogonia stem cells (OSCs) can reconstitute ovarian functions that yet sustain for only short period of time, limiting potential application of stem cells in preservation of fertility and endocrine function. Here, we show that mTOR inhibition by INK128 extends the follicular and endocrine functions of the reconstituted ovaries in aging and premature aging mice following transplantation of PGCs/OSCs. Follicular development and endocrine functions of the reconstituted ovaries by transplanting PGCs into kidney capsule of the recipient mice were maintained by INK128 treatment for more than 12 weeks, in contrast to the controls for only about 4 weeks without receiving the mTOR inhibitors. Comparatively, rapamycin also can prolong the ovarian functions but for limited time. Furthermore, our data reveal that INK128 promotes mitochondrial function in addition to its known function in suppression of immune response and inflammation. Taken together, germline stem cell transplantation in combination with mTOR inhibition by INK128 improves and extends the reconstituted ovarian and endocrine functions in reproductive aging and premature aging mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dai Heng
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical BiologyNankai UniversityTianjinChina
- Department of Cell Biology and GeneticsCollege of Life SciencesNankai UniversityTianjinChina
| | - Xiaoyan Sheng
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical BiologyNankai UniversityTianjinChina
- Department of Cell Biology and GeneticsCollege of Life SciencesNankai UniversityTianjinChina
- Animal Resources CenterNankai UniversityTianjinChina
| | - Chenglei Tian
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical BiologyNankai UniversityTianjinChina
- Department of Cell Biology and GeneticsCollege of Life SciencesNankai UniversityTianjinChina
| | - Jie Li
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical BiologyNankai UniversityTianjinChina
- Department of Cell Biology and GeneticsCollege of Life SciencesNankai UniversityTianjinChina
| | - Linlin Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical BiologyNankai UniversityTianjinChina
- Department of Cell Biology and GeneticsCollege of Life SciencesNankai UniversityTianjinChina
| | - Mo Gou
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical BiologyNankai UniversityTianjinChina
- Department of Cell Biology and GeneticsCollege of Life SciencesNankai UniversityTianjinChina
| | - Lin Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical BiologyNankai UniversityTianjinChina
- Department of Cell Biology and GeneticsCollege of Life SciencesNankai UniversityTianjinChina
- Animal Resources CenterNankai UniversityTianjinChina
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8
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Functional Oocytes Derived from Granulosa Cells. Cell Rep 2020; 29:4256-4267.e9. [PMID: 31875537 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2019.11.080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2019] [Revised: 10/09/2019] [Accepted: 11/19/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The generation of genomically stable and functional oocytes has great potential for preserving fertility and restoring ovarian function. It remains elusive whether functional oocytes can be generated from adult female somatic cells through reprogramming to germline-competent pluripotent stem cells (gPSCs) by chemical treatment alone. Here, we show that somatic granulosa cells isolated from adult mouse ovaries can be robustly induced to generate gPSCs by a purely chemical approach, with additional Rock inhibition and critical reprogramming facilitated by crotonic sodium or acid. These gPSCs acquired high germline competency and could consistently be directed to differentiate into primordial-germ-cell-like cells and form functional oocytes that produce fertile mice. Moreover, gPSCs promoted by crotonylation and the derived germ cells exhibited longer telomeres and high genomic stability like PGCs in vivo, providing additional evidence supporting the safety and effectiveness of chemical induction, which is particularly important for germ cells in genetic inheritance.
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9
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Parvari S, Yazdekhasti H, Rajabi Z, Gerayeli Malek V, Rastegar T, Abbasi M. Differentiation of Mouse Ovarian Stem Cells Toward Oocyte-Like Structure by Coculture with Granulosa Cells. Cell Reprogram 2017; 18:419-428. [PMID: 27906587 DOI: 10.1089/cell.2016.0013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
An increasing body of evidence has confirmed existence and function of ovarian stem cells (OSCs). In this study, a novel approach on differentiation of OSCs into oocyte-like cells (OLCs) has been addressed. Recently, different methods have been recruited to isolate and describe aspects of OSCs, but newer and more convenient strategies in isolation are still growing. Herein, a morphology-based method was used to isolate OSCs. Cell suspension of mouse neonatal ovaries was cultured and formed colonies were harvested mechanically and cultivated on mouse embryonic fibroblasts. For differentiation induction, colonies transferred on inactive granulosa cells. Results showed that cells in colonies were positive for alkaline phosphatase activity and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) confirmed the pluripotency characteristics of cells. Immunofluorescence revealed a positive signal for OCT4, DAZL, MVH, and SSEA1 in colonies as well. Results of RT-PCR and immunofluorescence confirmed that some OLCs were generated within the germ stem cell (GSCs) colonies. The applicability of morphological selection for isolation of GSCs was verified. This method is easier and more economic than other techniques. Our results demonstrate that granulosa cells were effective in inducing the differentiation of OSCs into OLCs through direct cell-to-cell contacts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soraya Parvari
- 1 Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Alborz University of Medical Sciences , Karaj, Iran
| | - Hossein Yazdekhasti
- 2 Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences , Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Rajabi
- 2 Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences , Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Tayebeh Rastegar
- 2 Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences , Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehdi Abbasi
- 2 Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences , Tehran, Iran
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10
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Wang C, Zhou B, Xia G. Mechanisms controlling germline cyst breakdown and primordial follicle formation. Cell Mol Life Sci 2017; 74:2547-2566. [PMID: 28197668 PMCID: PMC11107689 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-017-2480-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2016] [Revised: 01/20/2017] [Accepted: 01/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
In fetal females, oogonia proliferate immediately after sex determination. The progress of mitosis in oogonia proceeds so rapidly that the incompletely divided cytoplasm of the sister cells forms cysts. The oogonia will then initiate meiosis and arrest at the diplotene stage of meiosis I, becoming oocytes. Within each germline cyst, oocytes with Balbiani bodies will survive after cyst breakdown (CBD). After CBD, each oocyte is enclosed by pre-granulosa cells to form a primordial follicle (PF). Notably, the PF pool formed perinatally will be the sole lifelong oocyte source of a female. Thus, elucidating the mechanisms of CBD and PF formation is not only meaningful for solving mysteries related to ovarian development but also contributes to the preservation of reproduction. However, the mechanisms that regulate these phenomena are largely unknown. This review summarizes the progress of cellular and molecular research on these processes in mice and humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Agro-Biotechnology, College of Biological Science, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Bo Zhou
- State Key Laboratory for Agro-Biotechnology, College of Biological Science, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Guoliang Xia
- State Key Laboratory for Agro-Biotechnology, College of Biological Science, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China.
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11
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Zeng M, Sheng X, Keefe DL, Liu L. Reconstitution of ovarian function following transplantation of primordial germ cells. Sci Rep 2017; 7:1427. [PMID: 28469243 PMCID: PMC5431110 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-01648-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2017] [Accepted: 03/31/2017] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Ovarian aging occurs earlier than somatic aging. We tested the hypothesis that ovarian functions could be artificially reconstructed by transplantation of primordial germ cells (PGCs). We compared various methods for transplantation of PGCs aggregated with gonadal somatic cells and showed that reconstituted ovaries exhibited folliculogenesis after transplantation of PGCs-aggregates into either kidney capsule or ovarian bursa. Neo-oogenesis occurred early after transplantation, as evidenced by the presence of prophase I meiocytes displaying homologous pairing. Moreover, endocrine function was recovered in ovariectomized recipients, including elevated levels of AMH and estradiol. Interestingly, folliculogenesis in the reconstituted ovaries failed to sustain past four weeks. Regardless of transplantation method, follicles diminished after 45 days, accompanied by increased apoptosis, and were undetectable after two months. Meanwhile, no replicative PGCs or prophase I meiocytes could be found. Together, transplantation of PGCs can effectively reconstitute ovarian functions but for limited time. These data suggest that PGCs do not undergo self-renewal but rapidly enter meiosis following transplantation. Global activation of primordial follicles in artificial ovaries can result in further rapid loss of germ cells. Methods for maintaining self-renewal and expansion in vivo of PGCs and controlling follicle activation will be essential for continuing maintenance of the functional reconstructed ovaries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming Zeng
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Xiaoyan Sheng
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - David L Keefe
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York, NY, 10016, USA
| | - Lin Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China.
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12
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Matsubara K. Mouse Mesonephros in Fetus Period is Necessary for Differentiation of Primordial Germ Cells in Ectopic Kidney Capsule. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL SCIENCES 2016. [DOI: 10.3923/jms.2016.49.55] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
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13
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Abstract
Current knowledge on gonadal development and sex determination is the product of many decades of research involving a variety of scientific methods from different biological disciplines such as histology, genetics, biochemistry, and molecular biology. The earliest embryological investigations, followed by the invention of microscopy and staining methods, were based on histological examinations. The most robust development of histological staining techniques occurred in the second half of the nineteenth century and resulted in structural descriptions of gonadogenesis. These first studies on gonadal development were conducted on domesticated animals; however, currently the mouse is the most extensively studied species. The next key point in the study of gonadogenesis was the advancement of methods allowing for the in vitro culture of fetal gonads. For instance, this led to the description of the origin of cell lines forming the gonads. Protein detection using antibodies and immunolabeling methods and the use of reporter genes were also invaluable for developmental studies, enabling the visualization of the formation of gonadal structure. Recently, genetic and molecular biology techniques, especially gene expression analysis, have revolutionized studies on gonadogenesis and have provided insight into the molecular mechanisms that govern this process. The successive invention of new methods is reflected in the progress of research on gonadal development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafal P Piprek
- Department of Comparative Anatomy, Institute of Zoology, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 9, 30-387, Kraków, Poland.
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14
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Jorgensen JS. Defining the neighborhoods that escort the oocyte through its early life events and into a functional follicle. Mol Reprod Dev 2013; 80:960-76. [PMID: 24105719 PMCID: PMC3980676 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.22232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2013] [Accepted: 08/15/2013] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
The ovary functions to chaperone the most precious cargo for female individuals, the oocyte, thereby allowing the passage of genetic material to subsequent generations. Within the ovary, single oocytes are surrounded by a legion of granulosa cells inside each follicle. These two cell types depend upon one another to support follicle formation and oocyte survival. The infrastructure and events that work together to ultimately form these functional follicles within the ovary are unprecedented, given that the oocyte originates as a cell like all other neighboring cells within the embryo prior to gastrulation. This review discusses the journey of the germ cell in the context of the developing female mouse embryo, with a focus on specific signaling events and cell-cell interactions that escort the primordial germ cell as it is specified into the germ cell fate, migrates through the hindgut into the gonad, differentiates into an oocyte, and culminates upon formation of the primordial and then primary follicle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joan S Jorgensen
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin
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Qiao J, Wang ZB, Feng HL, Miao YL, Wang Q, Yu Y, Wei YC, Yan J, Wang WH, Shen W, Sun SC, Schatten H, Sun QY. The root of reduced fertility in aged women and possible therapentic options: current status and future perspects. Mol Aspects Med 2013; 38:54-85. [PMID: 23796757 DOI: 10.1016/j.mam.2013.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2013] [Accepted: 06/06/2013] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
It is well known that maternal ageing not only causes increased spontaneous abortion and reduced fertility, but it is also a high genetic disease risk. Although assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) have been widely used to treat infertility, the overall success is still low. The main reasons for age-related changes include reduced follicle number, compromised oocyte quality especially aneuploidy, altered reproductive endocrinology, and increased reproductive tract defect. Various approaches for improving or treating infertility in aged women including controlled ovarian hyperstimulation with intrauterine insemination (IUI), IVF/ICSI-ET, ovarian reserve testing, preimplantation genetic diagnosis and screening (PGD/PGS), oocyte selection and donation, oocyte and ovary tissue cryopreservation before ageing, miscarriage prevention, and caloric restriction are summarized in this review. Future potential reproductive techniques for infertile older women including oocyte and zygote micromanipulations, derivation of oocytes from germ stem cells, ES cells, and iPS cells, as well as through bone marrow transplantation are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Qiao
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhen-Bo Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, People's Republic of China
| | - Huai-Liang Feng
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, and Obstetrics and Gynecology, New York Hospital Queens, Weill Medical College of Cornell University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Yi-Liang Miao
- Reproductive Medicine Group, Laboratory of Reproductive and Developmental Toxicology, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Qiang Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine, 660 South Euclid Ave., St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Yang Yu
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, People's Republic of China
| | - Yan-Chang Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, People's Republic of China
| | - Jie Yan
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei-Hua Wang
- Houston Fertility Institute, Tomball Regional Hospital, Tomball, TX 77375, USA
| | - Wei Shen
- Laboratory of Germ Cell Biology, Department of Animal Science, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, People's Republic of China
| | - Shao-Chen Sun
- Department of Animal Science, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, People's Republic of China
| | - Heide Schatten
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - Qing-Yuan Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, People's Republic of China.
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Woods DC, White YAR, Niikura Y, Kiatpongsan S, Lee HJ, Tilly JL. Embryonic stem cell-derived granulosa cells participate in ovarian follicle formation in vitro and in vivo. Reprod Sci 2013; 20:524-35. [PMID: 23536570 DOI: 10.1177/1933719113483017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Differentiating embryonic stem cells (ESCs) can form ovarian follicle-like structures in vitro, consisting of an oocyte-like cell surrounded by somatic cells capable of steroidogenesis. Using a dual-fluorescence reporter system in which mouse ESCs express green fluorescent protein (GFP) under the control of a germ cell-specific Pou5f1 gene promoter and red fluorescent protein (Discosoma sp red [DsRed]) driven by the granulosa cell-specific Forkhead box L2 (Foxl2) gene promoter, we first confirmed in vitro formation of follicle-like structures containing GFP-positive cells surrounded by DsRed-positive cells. Isolated DsRed-positive cells specified from ECSs exhibited a gene expression profile consistent with granulosa cells, as revealed by the detection of messenger RNAs (mRNAs) for Foxl2, follistatin (Fst), anti-Müllerian hormone (Amh), and follicle-stimulating hormone receptor (Fshr) as well as by production of both progesterone and estradiol. In addition, treatment of isolated DsRed-expressing cells with follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) significantly increased estradiol production over basal levels, confirming the presence of functional FSH receptors in these cells. Last, ESC-derived DsRed-positive cells injected into neonatal mouse ovaries became incorporated within the granulosa cell layer of immature follicles. These studies demonstrate that Foxl2-expressing ovarian somatic cells derived in vitro from differentiating ESCs express granulosa cell markers, actively associate with germ cells in vitro, synthesize steroids, respond to FSH, and participate in folliculogenesis in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dori C Woods
- Vincent Center for Reproductive Biology, MGH Vincent Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
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17
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Woods DC, White YAR, Niikura Y, Kiatpongsan S, Lee HJ, Tilly JL. Embryonic stem cell-derived granulosa cells participate in ovarian follicle formation in vitro and in vivo. Reprod Sci 2013; 20:7-15. [PMID: 23536570 DOI: 10.1177/1933719112462632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Differentiating embryonic stem cells (ESCs) can form ovarian follicle-like structures in vitro, consisting of an oocyte-like cell surrounded by somatic cells capable of steroidogenesis. Using a dual-fluorescence reporter system in which mouse ESCs express green fluorescent protein (GFP) under the control of a germ cell-specific Pou5f1 gene promoter and red fluorescent protein (Discosoma sp red [DsRed]) driven by the granulosa cell-specific Forkhead box L2 (Foxl2) gene promoter, we first confirmed in vitro formation of follicle-like structures containing GFP-positive cells surrounded by DsRed-positive cells. Isolated DsRed-positive cells specified from ECSs exhibited a gene expression profile consistent with granulosa cells, as revealed by the detection of messenger RNAs (mRNAs) for Foxl2, follistatin (Fst), anti-Müllerian hormone (Amh), and follicle-stimulating hormone receptor (Fshr) as well as by production of both progesterone and estradiol. In addition, treatment of isolated DsRed-expressing cells with follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) significantly increased estradiol production over basal levels, confirming the presence of functional FSH receptors in these cells. Last, ESC-derived DsRed-positive cells injected into neonatal mouse ovaries became incorporated within the granulosa cell layer of immature follicles. These studies demonstrate that Foxl2-expressing ovarian somatic cells derived in vitro from differentiating ESCs express granulosa cell markers, actively associate with germ cells in vitro, synthesize steroids, respond to FSH, and participate in folliculogenesis in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dori C Woods
- Vincent Center for Reproductive Biology, MGH Vincent Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
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18
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Chen B, Zhang L, Tang J, Feng X, Feng Y, Liang G, Wang L, Feng Y, Li L, De Felici M, Shi Q, Shen W. Recovery of functional oocytes from cultured premeiotic germ cells after kidney capsule transplantation. Stem Cells Dev 2012; 22:567-80. [PMID: 22978409 DOI: 10.1089/scd.2012.0436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The efficiency of in vitro culture systems for a premeiotic female germ cell is still low, mostly because of our incomplete understanding of the mechanisms controlling oogenesis and the obvious difficulties in reproducing the complex in vivo environment of such a process under in vitro conditions. Here we explored the possibility of recovering the developmental potential of mouse oocytes generated in vitro from premeiotic germ cells by transplantation under a kidney capsule of adult animals. To this aim, mouse embryonic ovaries of 12.5 days postcoitum cultured in vitro in a serum-free medium for 7 or 14 days, were transplanted beneath the kidney capsule of immunodeficient mice and analyzed after 21 (7+21 group) or 14 days (14+14 group). Cultured ovaries before transplantation showed delayed oocyte meiotic progression and follicle development. Interestingly, grafted ovaries of both groups, especially those of the 7+21 group, seemed able to restore the reproductive cycle of recipients. While the almost complete absence of primordial follicles was observed in grafted ovaries, oocytes from these ovaries showed transcript levels of genes associated to oocyte maturation similar to control. Moreover, the developmental stage of follicles and oocytes of the 7+21 group ovaries were comparable to that of 21 days post partum in vivo ovaries, whereas significant developmental delay were found in the 14+14 group ovaries. Nevertheless, oocytes retrieved from transplanted ovaries of both groups matured (around 80%) and were fertilized in vitro (around 20%-45%). Two-cell embryos from the fertilized oocytes developed to hatching blastocysts (about 50%) or gave rise to healthy live offspring (from 6% to 10%) when transplanted in a host mother. In conclusion, our results indicate that premeiotic female germ cells cultured in vitro up to primordial/primary follicle stages preserve their capability to complete oogenesis and can be fertilized and generate live pups after transplantation into a suitable in vivo environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Chen
- Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Germplasm Enhancement in Universities of Shandong, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
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19
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Notarianni E. Reinterpretation of evidence advanced for neo-oogenesis in mammals, in terms of a finite oocyte reserve. J Ovarian Res 2011; 4:1. [PMID: 21211009 PMCID: PMC3024995 DOI: 10.1186/1757-2215-4-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2010] [Accepted: 01/06/2011] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The central tenet of ovarian biology, that the oocyte reserve in adult female mammals is finite, has been challenged over recent years by proponents of neo-oogenesis, who claim that germline stem cells exist in the ovarian surface epithelium or the bone marrow. Currently opinion is divided over these claims, and further scrutiny of the evidence advanced in support of the neo-oogenesis hypothesis is warranted - especially in view of the enormous implications for female fertility and health. This article contributes arguments against the hypothesis, providing alternative explanations for key observations, based on published data. Specifically, DNA synthesis in germ cells in the postnatal mouse ovary is attributed to mitochondrial genome replication, and to DNA repair in oocytes lagging in meiotic progression. Lines purported to consist of germline stem cells are identified as ovarian epithelium or as oogonia, from which cultures have been derived previously. Effects of ovotoxic treatments are found to negate claims for the existence of germline stem cells. And arguments are presented for the misidentification of ovarian somatic cells as de novo oocytes. These clarifications, if correct, undermine the concept that germline stem cells supplement the oocyte quota in the postnatal ovary; and instead comply with the theory of a fixed, unregenerated reserve. It is proposed that acceptance of the neo-oogenesis hypothesis is erroneous, and may effectively impede research in areas of ovarian biology. To illustrate, a novel explanation that is consistent with orthodox theory is provided for the observed restoration of fertility in chemotherapy-treated female mice following bone marrow transplantation, otherwise interpreted by proponents of neo-oogenesis as involving stimulation of endogenous germline stem cells. Instead, it is proposed that the chemotherapeutic regimens induce autoimmunity to ovarian antigens, and that the haematopoietic chimaerism produced by bone marrow transplantation circumvents activation of an autoreactive response, thereby rescuing ovarian function. The suggested mechanism draws from animal models of autoimmune ovarian disease, which implicate dysregulation of T cell regulatory function; and from a surmised role for follicular apoptosis in the provision of ovarian autoantigens, to sustain self-tolerance during homeostasis. This interpretation has direct implications for fertility preservation in women undergoing chemotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Notarianni
- Department of Biological & Biomedical Sciences, Durham University, South Road, Durham DH1 3LE, UK.
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21
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Intact fetal ovarian cord formation promotes mouse oocyte survival and development. BMC DEVELOPMENTAL BIOLOGY 2010; 10:2. [PMID: 20064216 PMCID: PMC2830955 DOI: 10.1186/1471-213x-10-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2009] [Accepted: 01/08/2010] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Female reproductive potential, or the ability to propagate life, is limited in mammals with the majority of oocytes lost before birth. In mice, surviving perinatal oocytes are enclosed in ovarian follicles for subsequent oocyte development and function in the adult. Before birth, fetal germ cells of both sexes develop in clusters, or germline cysts, in the undifferentiated gonad. Upon sex determination of the fetal gonad, germ cell cysts become organized into testicular or ovarian cord-like structures and begin to interact with gonadal somatic cells. Although germline cysts and testicular cords are required for spermatogenesis, the role of cyst and ovarian cord formation in mammalian oocyte development and female fertility has not been determined. RESULTS Here, we examine whether intact fetal ovarian germ and somatic cell cord structures are required for oocyte development using mouse gonad re-aggregation and transplantation to disrupt gonadal organization. We observed that germ cells from disrupted female gonad prior to embryonic day e13.5 completed prophase I of meiosis but did not survive following transplantation. Furthermore, re-aggregated ovaries from e13.5 to e15.5 developed with a reduced number of oocytes. Oocyte loss occurred before follicle formation and was associated with an absence of ovarian cord structure and ovary disorganization. However, disrupted ovaries from e16.5 or later were resistant to the re-aggregation impairment and supported robust oocyte survival and development in follicles. CONCLUSIONS Thus, we demonstrate a critical window of oocyte development from e13.5 to e16.5 in the intact fetal mouse ovary, corresponding to the establishment of ovarian cord structure, which promotes oocyte interaction with neighboring ovarian somatic granulosa cells before birth and imparts oocytes with competence to survive and develop in follicles. Because germline cyst and ovarian cord structures are conserved in the human fetal ovary, the identification of genetic components and molecular mechanisms of pre-follicle stage germ and somatic cell structures may be important for understanding human female infertility. In addition, this work provides a foundation for development of a robust fetal ovarian niche and transplantation based system to direct stem cell-derived oocyte differentiation as a potential therapeutic strategy for the treatment of infertility.
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Effect of insulin on oogenesis from mouse fetal germ cells in a serum-free 3D culture system. Reprod Biomed Online 2010; 20:11-25. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2009.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2009] [Revised: 04/01/2009] [Accepted: 10/07/2009] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Nicholas CR, Haston KM, Grewall AK, Longacre TA, Reijo Pera RA. Transplantation directs oocyte maturation from embryonic stem cells and provides a therapeutic strategy for female infertility. Hum Mol Genet 2009; 18:4376-89. [PMID: 19696121 PMCID: PMC2766296 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddp393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Ten to 15% of couples are infertile, with the most common causes being linked to the production of few or no oocytes or sperm. Yet, our understanding of human germ cell development is poor, at least in part due to the inaccessibility of early stages to genetic and developmental studies. Embryonic stem cells (ESCs) provide an in vitro system to study oocyte development and potentially treat female infertility. However, most studies of ESC differentiation to oocytes have not documented fundamental properties of endogenous development, making it difficult to determine the physiologic relevance of differentiated germ cells. Here, we sought to establish fundamental parameters of oocyte development during ESC differentiation to explore suitability for basic developmental genetic applications using the mouse as a model prior to translating to the human system. We demonstrate a timeline of definitive germ cell differentiation from ESCs in vitro that initially parallels endogenous oocyte development in vivo by single-cell expression profiling and analysis of functional milestones including responsiveness to defined maturation media, shared genetic requirement of Dazl, and entry into meiosis. However, ESC-derived oocyte maturation ultimately fails in vitro. To overcome this obstacle, we transplant ESC-derived oocytes into an ovarian niche to direct their functional maturation and, thereby, present rigorous evidence of oocyte physiologic relevance and a potential therapeutic strategy for infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cory R Nicholas
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA 94304, USA
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Yang W, Wei W, Shi C, Zhu J, Ying W, Shen Y, Ye X, Fang L, Duo S, Che J, Shen H, Ding S, Deng H. Pluripotin combined with leukemia inhibitory factor greatly promotes the derivation of embryonic stem cell lines from refractory strains. Stem Cells 2009; 27:383-9. [PMID: 19056907 DOI: 10.1634/stemcells.2008-0974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Most mouse embryonic stem (ES) cells are derived from a 129 or C57BL/6 background, whereas the derivation efficiency of ES cells is extremely low on certain refractory types of background for which ES cells are highly desired. Here we report an optimized, highly efficient protocol by combining pluripotin, a small molecule, and leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) for the derivation of mouse ES cells. With this method, we successfully isolated ES cell lines from five strains of mice, with an efficiency of 57% for NOD-scid, 63% for SCID beige, 80% for CD-1, and 100% for two F1 strains from C57BL/6xCD-1. By tracking the Oct4-positive cells in the Oct4-green fluorescent protein embryos in the process of ES cell isolation, we found that pluripotin combined with LIF improved the efficiency of ES cell isolation by selectively maintaining the Oct4-positive cells in the outgrowth. To our knowledge, this is the first report of ES cells being efficiently derived from immunodeficient mice on refractory backgrounds (NOD-scid on a NOD background and SCID beige on a BALB/c background).
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Affiliation(s)
- Weifeng Yang
- Laboratory of Stem Cell and Generative Biology, College of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
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Dong H, Li L, Song Z, Tang J, Xu B, Zhai X, Sun L, Zhang P, Li Z, Pan Q, Shi Q, Shen W. Premeiotic fetal murine germ cells cultured in vitro form typical oocyte-like cells but do not progress through meiosis. Theriogenology 2009; 72:219-31. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2009.02.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2008] [Revised: 02/24/2009] [Accepted: 02/25/2009] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Nicholas CR, Chavez SL, Baker VL, Reijo Pera RA. Instructing an embryonic stem cell-derived oocyte fate: lessons from endogenous oogenesis. Endocr Rev 2009; 30:264-83. [PMID: 19366753 PMCID: PMC2726843 DOI: 10.1210/er.2008-0034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Female reproductive potential is limited in the majority of species due to oocyte depletion. Because functional human oocytes are restricted in number and accessibility, a robust system to differentiate oocytes from stem cells would enable a thorough investigation of the genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors affecting human oocyte development. Also, the differentiation of functional oocytes from stem cells may permit the success of human somatic cell nuclear transfer for reprogramming studies and for the production of patient-specific embryonic stem cells (ESCs). Thus, ESC-derived oocytes could ultimately help to restore fertility in women. Here, we review endogenous and ESC-derived oocyte development, and we discuss the potential and challenges for differentiating functional oocytes from ESCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cory R Nicholas
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, California 94304, USA.
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