1
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Trapphoff T, Dieterle S. Cryopreservation of Ovarian and Testicular Tissue and the Influence on Epigenetic Pattern. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11061. [PMID: 37446239 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241311061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Revised: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/02/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Ovarian tissue cryopreservation (OTC) or testicular tissue cryopreservation (TTC) are effective and often the only options for fertility preservation in female or male patients due to oncological, medical, or social aspects. While TTC and resumption of spermatogenesis, either in vivo or in vitro, has still be considered an experimental approach in humans, OTC and autotransplantation has been applied increasingly to preserve fertility, with more than 200 live births worldwide. However, the cryopreservation of reproductive cells followed by the resumption of gametogenesis, either in vivo or in vitro, may interfere with sensitive and highly regulated cellular processes. In particular, the epigenetic profile, which includes not just reversible modifications of the DNA itself but also post-translational histone modifications, small non-coding RNAs, gene expression and availability, and storage of related proteins or transcripts, have to be considered in this context. Due to complex reprogramming and maintenance mechanisms of the epigenome in germ cells, growing embryos, and offspring, OTC and TTC are carried out at very critical moments early in the life cycle. Given this background, the safety of OTC and TTC, taking into account the epigenetic profile, has to be clarified. Cryopreservation of mature germ cells (including metaphase II oocytes and mature spermatozoa collected via ejaculation or more invasively after testicular biopsy) or embryos has been used successfully for many years in medically assisted reproduction (MAR). However, tissue freezing followed by in vitro or in vivo gametogenesis has become more attractive in the past, while few human studies have analysed the epigenetic effects, with most data deriving from animal studies. In this review, we highlight the potential influence of the cryopreservation of immature germ cells and subsequent in vivo or in vitro growth and differentiation on the epigenetic profile (including DNA methylation, post-translational histone modifications, and the abundance and availability of relevant transcripts and proteins) in humans and animals.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Stefan Dieterle
- Dortmund Fertility Centre, 44135 Dortmund, Germany
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Witten/Herdecke University, 44135 Dortmund, Germany
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2
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Tian C, Shen L, Gong C, Cao Y, Shi Q, Zhao G. Microencapsulation and nanowarming enables vitrification cryopreservation of mouse preantral follicles. Nat Commun 2022; 13:7515. [PMID: 36522314 PMCID: PMC9755531 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-34549-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Preantral follicles are often used as models for cryopreservation and in vitro culture due to their easy availability. As a promising approach for mammalian fertility preservation, vitrification of preantral follicles requires high concentrations of highly toxic penetrating cryoprotective agents (up to 6 M). Here, we accomplish low-concentration-penetrating cryoprotective agent (1.5 M) vitrification of mouse preantral follicles encapsulated in hydrogel by nanowarming. We find that compared with conventional water bath warming, the viability of preantral follicles is increased by 33%. Moreover, the cavity formation rate of preantral follicles after in vitro culture is comparable to the control group without vitrification. Furthermore, the percentage of MII oocytes developed from the vitrified follicles, and the birth rate of offspring following in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer are also similar to the control group. Our results provide a step towards nontoxic vitrification by utilizing the synergistic cryoprotection effect of microencapsulation and nanowarming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Conghui Tian
- grid.59053.3a0000000121679639Department of Electronic Engineering and Information Science, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Lingxiao Shen
- grid.59053.3a0000000121679639Department of Electronic Engineering and Information Science, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Chenjia Gong
- grid.59053.3a0000000121679639Division of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Science at Microscale, the CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, CAS center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Collaborative Innovation Center of Genetics and Development, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Yunxia Cao
- grid.412679.f0000 0004 1771 3402Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China ,grid.186775.a0000 0000 9490 772XNHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract (Anhui Medical University), Anhui Provincial Engineering Research Center of Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, Hefei, China
| | - Qinghua Shi
- grid.59053.3a0000000121679639Division of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Science at Microscale, the CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, CAS center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Collaborative Innovation Center of Genetics and Development, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Gang Zhao
- grid.59053.3a0000000121679639Department of Electronic Engineering and Information Science, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
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Targeted Methylation Profiling of Single Laser-Capture Microdissected Post-Mortem Brain Cells by Adapted Limiting Dilution Bisulfite Pyrosequencing (LDBSP). Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232415571. [PMID: 36555213 PMCID: PMC9779089 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232415571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
A reoccurring issue in neuroepigenomic studies, especially in the context of neurodegenerative disease, is the use of (heterogeneous) bulk tissue, which generates noise during epigenetic profiling. A workable solution to this issue is to quantify epigenetic patterns in individually isolated neuronal cells using laser capture microdissection (LCM). For this purpose, we established a novel approach for targeted DNA methylation profiling of individual genes that relies on a combination of LCM and limiting dilution bisulfite pyrosequencing (LDBSP). Using this approach, we determined cytosine-phosphate-guanine (CpG) methylation rates of single alleles derived from 50 neurons that were isolated from unfixed post-mortem brain tissue. In the present manuscript, we describe the general workflow and, as a showcase, demonstrate how targeted methylation analysis of various genes, in this case, RHBDF2, OXT, TNXB, DNAJB13, PGLYRP1, C3, and LMX1B, can be performed simultaneously. By doing so, we describe an adapted data analysis pipeline for LDBSP, allowing one to include and correct CpG methylation rates derived from multi-allele reactions. In addition, we show that the efficiency of LDBSP on DNA derived from LCM neurons is similar to the efficiency obtained in previously published studies using this technique on other cell types. Overall, the method described here provides the user with a more accurate estimation of the DNA methylation status of each target gene in the analyzed cell pools, thereby adding further validity to this approach.
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Chen H, Zhang L, Meng L, Liang L, Zhang C. Advantages of vitrification preservation in assisted reproduction and potential influences on imprinted genes. Clin Epigenetics 2022; 14:141. [PMID: 36324168 PMCID: PMC9632035 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-022-01355-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryopreservation has important application in assisted reproductive technology (ART). The vitrification technique has been widely used in the cryopreservation of oocytes and embryos, as a large number of clinical results and experimental studies have shown that vitrification can achieve a higher cell survival rate and preimplantation development rate and better pregnancy outcomes. Ovarian tissue vitrification is an alternative method to slow freezing that causes comparatively less damage to the original follicular DNA. At present, sperm preservation mainly adopts slow freezing or rapid freezing (LN2 vapor method), although the vitrification method can achieve higher sperm motility after warming. However, due to the use of high-concentration cryoprotectants and ultra-rapid cooling, vitrification may cause strong stress to gametes, embryos and tissue cells, resulting in potentially adverse effects. Imprinted genes are regulated by epigenetic modifications, including DNA methylation, and show single allele expression. Their accurate regulation and correct expression are very important for the placenta, fetal development and offspring health. Considering that genome imprinting is very sensitive to changes in the external environment, we comprehensively summarized the effect of cryopreservation—especially the vitrification method in ART—on imprinted genes. Animal studies have found that the vitrification of oocytes and embryos can have a significant impact on some imprinted genes and DNA methylation, but the few studies in humans have reported almost no influence, which need to be further explored. This review provides useful information for the safety assessment and further optimization of the current cryopreservation techniques in ART.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huanhuan Chen
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Henan Provincial People's Hospital of Henan University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.,Henan Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproductive Bioengineering, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, China
| | - Lei Zhang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Henan Provincial People's Hospital of Henan University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.,Henan Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproductive Bioengineering, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, China
| | - Li Meng
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Henan Provincial People's Hospital of Henan University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.,Henan Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproductive Bioengineering, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, China
| | - Linlin Liang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Henan Provincial People's Hospital of Henan University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China. .,Henan Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproductive Bioengineering, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, China.
| | - Cuilian Zhang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Henan Provincial People's Hospital of Henan University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China. .,Henan Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproductive Bioengineering, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, China.
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Zhang P, Yang S, Zhang H, Hao H, Du W, Wang J, Hao T, Zhu H, Umer S, Zhao X. Vitrification of bovine germinal vesicle oocytes significantly decreased the methylation level of their in vitro derived MII oocytes. Reprod Fertil Dev 2022; 34:889-903. [PMID: 35927063 DOI: 10.1071/rd22130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT The vitrification of oocytes is important for the conservation of animals, and the effect of vitrification on methylation patterns of bovine oocytes remains unclear. AIMS This article aims to investigate the effect of vitrification on the DNA methylation patterns on vitrified GV oocytes and their in vitro derived MII oocytes. METHODS 5-MeC staining and single-cell whole genome bisulphite sequencing (SC-WGBS) were utilised to analyse fresh GV oocytes (F_GV group), MII oocytes (F_MII group), vitrified GV oocytes (V_GV group) and their in vitro derived MII oocytes (V_MII group). KEY RESULTS Results of both 5-MeC staining and SC-WGBS showed that no significant difference was found between the F_GV group and the V_GV group, while the methylation level of the V_MII group was significantly lower than that of the F_MII group. Moreover, supplementation of 2μM resveratrol (Res) in IVM medium significantly improved maturation and development ability of vitrified GV oocytes by restoring their DNA methylation levels. CONCLUSION In conclusion, vitrification of bovine GV oocytes significantly decreased the DNA methylation level of their in vitro derived MII oocytes, and 2μM Res improved their development ability by restoring DNA methylation level. IMPLICATIONS Our results provide an efficient approach to improve the maturation and fertilisation ability of vitrified GV oocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peipei Zhang
- Institute of Animal Sciences (IAS), Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), No. 2 Yuanmingyuan Western Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Sha Yang
- Institute of Animal Sciences (IAS), Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), No. 2 Yuanmingyuan Western Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Hang Zhang
- Institute of Animal Sciences (IAS), Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), No. 2 Yuanmingyuan Western Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Haisheng Hao
- Institute of Animal Sciences (IAS), Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), No. 2 Yuanmingyuan Western Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Weihua Du
- Institute of Animal Sciences (IAS), Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), No. 2 Yuanmingyuan Western Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Jingjing Wang
- Institute of Animal Sciences (IAS), Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), No. 2 Yuanmingyuan Western Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Tong Hao
- Institute of Animal Sciences (IAS), Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), No. 2 Yuanmingyuan Western Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Huabin Zhu
- Institute of Animal Sciences (IAS), Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), No. 2 Yuanmingyuan Western Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Saqib Umer
- Institute of Animal Sciences (IAS), Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), No. 2 Yuanmingyuan Western Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Xueming Zhao
- Institute of Animal Sciences (IAS), Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), No. 2 Yuanmingyuan Western Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100193, China
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The Effect of Freezing Twice during Assisted Reproductive Technology on Perinatal and Neonatal Outcomes. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 2022:5623462. [PMID: 35419457 PMCID: PMC9001107 DOI: 10.1155/2022/5623462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2021] [Revised: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Objective The aim of this paper was to investigate whether two freeze-thaw cycles before embryo transfer may affect perinatal and neonatal outcomes. Materials and Methods A total of 8,028 frozen-thawed embryo transfer patients who became pregnant between March 2013 and September 2019 were included. The patients were divided into two groups: the oocyte cryopreservation (OC) group (N = 96) and the control group (N = 7932). Propensity score matching (PSM) was used to adjust the baseline characteristics of the two groups at a proportion of 1 : 4. There were 96 patients in the OC group and 369 patients in the control group after PSM. The pregnancy-related complications and neonatal conditions after delivery of the two groups were compared. Results The OC group had a higher stillbirth rate (3.1% vs. 0.3%, P = 0.029) than the control group after PSM. Moreover, a slightly higher pregnancy defect rate was found in the OC group. There was no significant difference in the rates of diabetes mellitus, hypertension during pregnancy, cesarean section, multiple births, low birth weight (LBW), or premature birth defects between the two groups. Conclusions Our findings demonstrate that performing frozen-thawed embryo transfer (FET) with cryopreserved oocytes was associated with a higher rate of stillbirth than FET with fresh oocytes. The incidences of diabetes, gestational hypertension, cesarean section, multiple births, LBW, premature birth, and birth defects of the two groups were not significantly different.
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Liang R, Fang F, Li S, Chen X, Zhang X, Lu Q. Is there any effect on imprinted genes H19, PEG3, and SNRPN during AOA? Open Med (Wars) 2022; 17:174-184. [PMID: 35071778 PMCID: PMC8760930 DOI: 10.1515/med-2022-0410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2021] [Revised: 09/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Assisted oocyte activation (AOA) has been proposed as an effective technique to overcome the problem of impaired fertilization after intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) but the safety of AOA remains a concern. We aimed to investigate if AOA induces imprinting effects on embryos. We used 13 cleavage embryos, nine blastocysts, and eight placentas from 15 patients. The subjects were divided into six groups by tissue type and with or without AOA. The methylation levels of imprinted genes (H19, paternally expressed gene [PEG3] and small nuclear ribonucleoprotein polypeptide N [SNRPN]) were tested by pyrosequencing. We observed different methylation levels among cleavage embryos. The variability was much more remarkable between cleavage embryos than blastocysts and placenta tissues. The methylation levels were especially higher in SNRPN and lower in the H19 gene in AOA embryos than those without AOA. No significant difference was found either among blastocysts or among placenta tissues regardless of AOA. The methylation levels of the three genes in blastocysts were very similar to those in the placenta. Compared to conventional ICSI, AOA changed imprinting methylation rates at H19 and SNRPN in cleavage embryos but not in the blastocyst stage and placenta. We recommend that blastocyst transfer should be considered for patients undergoing AOA during in vitro fertilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rong Liang
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University People’s Hospital , Beijing , 100044 , China
| | - Fang Fang
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University People’s Hospital , Beijing , 100044 , China
| | - Sen Li
- Reproductive Medical Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Hospital of Guangdong Province , Guangzhou , 510317 , China
| | - Xi Chen
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University People’s Hospital , Beijing , 100044 , China
| | - Xiaohong Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University People’s Hospital , Beijing , 100044 , China
| | - Qun Lu
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University People’s Hospital , Beijing , 100044 , China
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Wang Y, Russo DD, Pattarawat P, Zhang Q, Zelinski MB, Shalek AK, Goods BA, Xiao S. Vitrification preserves murine ovarian follicular cell transcriptome in a 3D encapsulated in vitro follicle growth system. Biol Reprod 2021; 105:1378-1380. [PMID: 34591115 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioab185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Vitrification is a method for long-term biological sample cryopreservation without causing intra- and extra-cellular ice formation. We recently established a novel closed vitrification system to cryopreserve mouse ovarian follicles. Using the 3D alginate hydrogel encapsulated in vitro follicle growth (eIVFG) method, we demonstrated that compared to freshly-harvested follicles, vitrified follicles had normal follicle and oocyte reproductive outcomes. However, it is unknown whether vitrification preserves molecular signatures of folliculogenesis, which is the primary research focus in this study. Six fresh and six vitrified antral follicles grown from eIVFG were collected on day 8 for the whole single-follicle RNA sequencing. Principal component analysis (PCA) and Pearson's correlation analysis revealed that vitrified follicles had similar transcriptomic profiles to fresh follicles. There were 35 differentially expressed genes between vitrified and fresh follicles, however, none of those genes have been shown to be critical to folliculogenesis and oogenesis. Meanwhile, gene ontology (GO) and KEGG pathway analysis revealed that no GO terms or signaling pathways were significantly enriched. Furthermore, the expression of genes essential for the gonadotropin-dependent folliculogenesis and oogenesis were comparable between vitrified and fresh follicles. Taken together, these results demonstrate that vitrification preserves follicular cell transcriptome and molecular signatures of gonadotropin-dependent folliculogenesis in the eIVFG system, providing a robust model for fertility preservation, conservation of endangered species, and also establishing a high-content ovarian follicle biobank for studying ovarian biology and female reproductive toxicology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingzheng Wang
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute (EOHSI), Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854.,Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208
| | - Daniela D Russo
- Institute for Medical Engineering & Science, Department of Chemistry, and Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139.,Broad Institute, Harvard University & Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139.,The Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02139
| | - Pawat Pattarawat
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute (EOHSI), Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854
| | - Qiang Zhang
- Gangarosa Department of Environmental Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322
| | - Mary B Zelinski
- Division of Reproductive & Developmental Science, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Beaverton, OR 97006.,Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239
| | - Alex K Shalek
- Institute for Medical Engineering & Science, Department of Chemistry, and Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139.,Broad Institute, Harvard University & Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139.,The Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02139
| | - Brittany A Goods
- Thayer School of Engineering, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH 03755
| | - Shuo Xiao
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute (EOHSI), Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854
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Herta AC, Akin N, Billooye K, Saucedo-Cuevas L, Lolicato F, Segers I, Anckaert E, Smitz J. Reversing complete mechanical transzonal projections disruption during mouse in vitro follicle culture with unaltered oocyte competence†. Biol Reprod 2021; 104:1373-1385. [PMID: 33709109 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioab045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2020] [Revised: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In vitro oocyte growth is widely studied as an alternative fertility preservation approach. Several animal models are used to generate extensive information on this complex process regulated by the constant and dynamic interaction between the oocyte and its somatic compartment throughout follicle growth and maturation. A two-dimensional attachment mouse secondary follicle culture system was used to assess the oocyte's capacity to overcome disconnection from its somatic companions at different developmental stages for final competence acquisition. To test this, complete mechanical denudation of oocytes from preantral (PA) and early antral (EA) follicles was performed. Established endpoints were the oocyte's potential to reconnect with somatic cells and the impact of connectivity disruption on mature oocyte quality. This study proves that oocytes from PA and EA cultured mouse follicles can overcome complete denudation, restoring likely functional transzonal projections with no significant differences in meiotic and developmental competence compared with those from intact cultured follicles. These novel findings constitute good premises for developing successful strategies to rescue human oocyte competence in the context of in vitro culture approaches such as nonhuman chorionic gonadotropin triggered in vitro maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anamaria-Cristina Herta
- Follicle Biology Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Nazli Akin
- Follicle Biology Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Katy Billooye
- Follicle Biology Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Laura Saucedo-Cuevas
- Follicle Biology Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Francesca Lolicato
- Follicle Biology Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Ingrid Segers
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Ellen Anckaert
- Follicle Biology Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Johan Smitz
- Follicle Biology Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
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Choi SR, Lee J, Seo YJ, Kong HS, Kim M, Jin E, Lee JR, Lee JH. Molecular basis of ice-binding and cryopreservation activities of type III antifreeze proteins. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2021; 19:897-909. [PMID: 33598104 PMCID: PMC7851773 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2021.01.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2020] [Revised: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The QAE2ACT and SP ACT mutants showed full TH and IRI activities. Active AFPs effectively preserved intact follicle and prevented DSB damage. Active AFPs exhibited unique structural feature in the first 310 helix of the IBS. Unique structure of the IBS determines TH, IRI, and cryopreservation activities.
Antifreeze proteins (AFPs) can inhibit the freezing of body fluid at subzero temperatures to promote the survival of various organisms living in polar regions. Type III AFPs are categorized into three subgroups, QAE1, QAE2, and SP isoforms, based on differences in their isoelectric points. We determined the thermal hysteresis (TH), ice recrystallization inhibition (IRI), and cryopreservation activity of three isoforms of the notched-fin eelpout AFP and their mutant constructs and characterized their structural and dynamic features using NMR. The QAE1 isoform is the most active among the three classes of III AFP isoforms, and the mutants of inactive QAE2 and SP isoforms, QAE2ACT and SPACT, displayed the full TH and IRI activities with resepect to QAE1 isoform. Cryopreservation studies using mouse ovarian tissue revealed that the QAE1 isoform and the active mutants, QAE2ACT and SPACT, more effectively preserved intact follicle morphology and prevented DNA double-strand break damage more efficiently than the inactive isoforms. It was also found that all active AFPs, QAE1, QAE2ACT, and SPACT, formed unique H-bonds with the first 310 helix, an interaction that plays an important role in the formation of anchored clathrate water networks for efficient binding to the primary prism and pyramidal planes of ice crystals, which was disrupted in the inactive isoforms. Our studies provide valuable insights into the molecular mechanism of the TH and IRI activity, as well as the cryopreservation efficiency, of type III AFPs.
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Key Words
- AFP, Antifreeze protein
- Antifreeze protein
- CPA, cryoprotective agent
- Cryopreservation
- D-PBS, Dulbecco’s phosphate-buffered saline
- DMSO, dimethyl sulfoxide
- DSB, double-strand break
- EG, ethylene glycol
- H-bond, hydrogen bond
- IBP, ice-binding protein
- IBS, ice-binding surface
- IRI, ice recrystallization inhibition
- Ice crystallization inhibition
- NMR
- OT, ovarian tissue
- QAE, quaternary-amino-ethyl
- RT, room temperature
- SP, sulfopropyl
- TH, thermal hysteresis
- TUNEL, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labelling
- Thermal hysteresis
- nfeAFP, notched-fin eelpout AFP
- wt, wild-type
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Affiliation(s)
- Seo-Ree Choi
- Department of Chemistry and Research Institute of Natural Science, Gyeongsang National University, Gyeongnam 52828, Republic of Korea
| | - Jaewang Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Gyeonggi 13620, Republic of Korea.,Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, Eulji University, Gyeonggi 13135, Republic of Korea
| | - Yeo-Jin Seo
- Department of Chemistry and Research Institute of Natural Science, Gyeongsang National University, Gyeongnam 52828, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun Sun Kong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Gyeonggi 13620, Republic of Korea
| | - Minjae Kim
- Department of Life Science, Hanyang University, Seoul 04763, Republic of Korea
| | - EonSeon Jin
- Department of Life Science, Hanyang University, Seoul 04763, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung Ryeol Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Gyeonggi 13620, Republic of Korea.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Joon-Hwa Lee
- Department of Chemistry and Research Institute of Natural Science, Gyeongsang National University, Gyeongnam 52828, Republic of Korea
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Zheng X, Liu J, Liu Z, Wang J. Bio-inspired Ice-controlling Materials for Cryopreservation of Cells and Tissues. ACTA CHIMICA SINICA 2021. [DOI: 10.6023/a21020043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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12
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Bus A, Szymanska K, Pintelon I, Leroy JLMR, Leybaert L, Bols PEJ. Preservation of connexin 43 and transzonal projections in isolated bovine pre-antral follicles before and following vitrification. J Assist Reprod Genet 2020; 38:479-492. [PMID: 33159276 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-020-01993-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Gap junctions and transzonal projections play a crucial role in intercellular communication between different follicular components and are necessary for follicle development. We aimed to demonstrate gap junction protein connexin 43 (Cx43) and transzonal projections (TZPs) in viable, category 1, isolated bovine pre-antral follicles (PAFs) during short-term culture and after vitrification and warming. METHODS This study involved four experimental groups: fresh control, 2-day culture, 4-day culture, and vitrified secondary PAFs. Isolated PAFs were vitrified using a simple and efficient cryopreservation method by means of mini cell strainers. RESULTS Cx43 and TZPs were detected in pre-antral follicles of all stages, as well as in every experimental group. The group fresh follicles showed a higher percentage of follicles that were positive for Cx43 (91.7%) than the follicles that were vitrified (77.4%). All follicles that were cultured for 2 days were Cx43-positive (100%). Follicles cultured for 4 days (65.8%) (P = 0.002) showed the lowest percentage of follicles that were Cx43-positive. The percentages of the presence or (partial) absence of the TZP network were shown to be very heterogeneous between follicles in different treatment groups. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest the maintenance of communication between the oocyte and the somatic companion cells after vitrification and warming. The varying percentages of the expression of the TZP network within groups suggests that it will be of interest to investigate whether this is truly due to variability in TZP integrity and follicle quality or due to methodological limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anniek Bus
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical, Biomedical and Veterinary Sciences, Laboratory of Veterinary Physiology and Biochemistry, Gamete Research Centre, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, U building, 2610, Wilrijk, Belgium.
| | - Katarzyna Szymanska
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, 310 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT, 06510, USA.,Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Department of Basic and Applied Medical Sciences (BAMS), Physiology group, Ghent University, C. Heymanslaan 10, B-9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Isabel Pintelon
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical, Biomedical and Veterinary Sciences, Laboratory of Cell Biology and Histology, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, T building, 2610, Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Jo L M R Leroy
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical, Biomedical and Veterinary Sciences, Laboratory of Veterinary Physiology and Biochemistry, Gamete Research Centre, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, U building, 2610, Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Luc Leybaert
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Department of Basic and Applied Medical Sciences (BAMS), Physiology group, Ghent University, C. Heymanslaan 10, B-9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Peter E J Bols
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical, Biomedical and Veterinary Sciences, Laboratory of Veterinary Physiology and Biochemistry, Gamete Research Centre, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, U building, 2610, Wilrijk, Belgium
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13
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Rajabzadeh A, Jahanpeyma F, Talebi A, Moradi F, Hamidieh AA, Eimani H. Fibrin Scaffold Incorporating Platelet Lysate Enhance Follicle Survival and Angiogenesis in Cryopreserved Preantral Follicle Transplantation. Galen Med J 2020; 9:e1558. [PMID: 34466553 PMCID: PMC8344035 DOI: 10.31661/gmj.v9i0.1558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2019] [Revised: 05/10/2019] [Accepted: 06/15/2019] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Transplantation of cryopreserved follicles can be regarded as a promising strategy for preserving fertility in cancer patients under chemotherapy and radiotherapy by reducing the risk of cancer recurrence. The present study aimed to evaluate whether fibrin hydrogel supplemented with platelet lysate (PL) could be applied to enhance follicular survival, growth, and angiogenesis in cryopreserved preantral follicle grafts. Materials and Methods: Preantral follicles were extracted from 15 four-week-old NMRI mice, cryopreserved by cryotop method, and encapsulated in fibrin-platelet lysate for subsequent heterotopic (subcutaneous) auto-transplantation into the neck. Transplants were assessed in three groups including fresh follicles in fibrin-15%PL, cryopreserved follicles in fibrin-15%PL, and cryopreserved follicles in fibrin-0% PL. Two weeks after transplantation, histological, and immunohistochemistry (CD31) analysis were applied to evaluate follicle morphology, survival rate, and vascular formation, respectively. Results: Based on the results, fibrin-15% PL significantly increased neovascularization and survival rate (SR) both in cryopreserved (SR=66.96%) and fresh follicle (SR=90.8%) grafts, compared to PL-less fibrin cryopreserved transplants (SR=28.46%). The grafts supplemented with PL included a significantly higher percentage of preantral and antral follicles. Also, no significant difference was observed in the percentage of preantral follicles between cryopreserved and fresh grafts of fibrin-15% PL. However, a significantly lower (P=0.03) percentage of follicles (23.37%) increased to the antral stage in cryopreserved grafts of fibrin-15%PL, compared to fresh grafts (35.01%). Conclusion: The findings demonstrated that fibrin-PL matrix could be a promising strategy to improve cryopreserved follicle transplantation and preserve fertility in cancer patients at the risk of ovarian failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alireza Rajabzadeh
- Department of Tissue Engineering and Applied Cell Science, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Jahanpeyma
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Talebi
- School of Medicine, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran
| | - Faezeh Moradi
- Department of Tissue Engineering, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amir Ali Hamidieh
- Pediatric Stem Cell Transplant Department, Children’s Medical center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hussein Eimani
- Department of Embryology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
- Correspondence to: Hussein Eimani, Department of Embryology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran Telephone Number: +989123063192 Email Address:
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14
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Huo Y, Yan ZQ, Yuan P, Qin M, Kuo Y, Li R, Yan LY, Feng HL, Qiao J. Single-cell DNA methylation sequencing reveals epigenetic alterations in mouse oocytes superovulated with different dosages of gonadotropins. Clin Epigenetics 2020; 12:75. [PMID: 32487258 PMCID: PMC7268365 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-020-00866-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2019] [Accepted: 05/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epigenetic abnormalities caused by superovulation have recently attracted increasing attention. Superovulation with exogenous hormones may prevent oocytes from establishing an appropriate epigenetic state, and this effect may extend to the methylation programming in preimplantation embryos, as de novo DNA methylation is a function of developmental stage of follicles and oocyte size. Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and human menopausal gonadotropin (hMG) are common gonadotropins used for superovulation, and appropriate concentrations of these gonadotropins might be necessary. However, no systematic study on the effects of DNA methylation alterations in oocytes associated with superovulation with different dosages of FSH/hMG at the single-cell level has yet been reported. In the current study, different dosages of FSH/hMG combined with human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) were used in female mice to generate experimental groups, while naturally matured oocytes and oocytes superovulated with only hCG were respectively used as controls. Single-cell level DNA methylation sequencing was carried out on all these matured oocytes. RESULTS In this study, we revealed that the genome-wide methylation pattern and CG methylation level of the maternal imprinting control regions of all mature oocytes were globally conserved and stable. However, methylation alterations associated with superovulation were found at a specific set of loci, and the differentially methylated regions (DMRs) mainly occurred in regions other than promoters. Furthermore, some of the annotated genes in the DMRs were involved in biological processes such as glucose metabolism, nervous system development, cell cycle, cell proliferation, and embryo implantation and were altered in all dosages of FSH/hMG group (for example, Gfod2 and SYF2). Other genes were impaired only after high gonadotropin dosages (for instance, Sox17 and Phactr4). CONCLUSIONS In conclusion, the current study addressed the effects of superovulation on DNA methylation from the perspective of different dosages of gonadotropins at the single-cell level. We found that the genome-wide DNA methylation landscape was globally preserved irrespective of superovulation or of the kind and dosage of gonadotropins used, whereas the methylation alterations associated with superovulation occurred at a specific set of loci. These observed effects reflect that superovulation recruits oocytes that would not normally be ovulated or that have not undergone complete epigenetic maturation. Our results provide an important reference for the safety assessment of superovulation with different dosages of gonadotropins. However, it should be noted that this study has some limitations, as the sample number and library coverage of analyzed oocytes were relatively low. Future studies with larger sample sizes and high-coverage libraries that examine the effects of superovulation on embryo development and offspring health as well as the underlying mechanisms are still needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Huo
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, No. 49 North HuaYuan Road, Hai Dian District, Beijing, 100191, China.,Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, No. 49 North HuaYuan Road, Hai Dian District, Beijing, 100191, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproduction, No. 49 North HuaYuan Road, Hai Dian District, Beijing, 100191, China.,Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, No. 38 XueYuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Zhi Qiang Yan
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, No. 49 North HuaYuan Road, Hai Dian District, Beijing, 100191, China.,Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, No. 49 North HuaYuan Road, Hai Dian District, Beijing, 100191, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproduction, No. 49 North HuaYuan Road, Hai Dian District, Beijing, 100191, China.,Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Peng Yuan
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, No. 49 North HuaYuan Road, Hai Dian District, Beijing, 100191, China.,Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, No. 49 North HuaYuan Road, Hai Dian District, Beijing, 100191, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproduction, No. 49 North HuaYuan Road, Hai Dian District, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Meng Qin
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, No. 49 North HuaYuan Road, Hai Dian District, Beijing, 100191, China.,Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, No. 49 North HuaYuan Road, Hai Dian District, Beijing, 100191, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproduction, No. 49 North HuaYuan Road, Hai Dian District, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Ying Kuo
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, No. 49 North HuaYuan Road, Hai Dian District, Beijing, 100191, China.,Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, No. 49 North HuaYuan Road, Hai Dian District, Beijing, 100191, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproduction, No. 49 North HuaYuan Road, Hai Dian District, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Rong Li
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, No. 49 North HuaYuan Road, Hai Dian District, Beijing, 100191, China.,Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, No. 49 North HuaYuan Road, Hai Dian District, Beijing, 100191, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproduction, No. 49 North HuaYuan Road, Hai Dian District, Beijing, 100191, China.,National Clinical Research Center of Obstetrics and Gynecology, No. 49 North HuaYuan Road, Hai Dian District, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Li Ying Yan
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, No. 49 North HuaYuan Road, Hai Dian District, Beijing, 100191, China.,Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, No. 49 North HuaYuan Road, Hai Dian District, Beijing, 100191, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproduction, No. 49 North HuaYuan Road, Hai Dian District, Beijing, 100191, China.,National Clinical Research Center of Obstetrics and Gynecology, No. 49 North HuaYuan Road, Hai Dian District, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Huai Liang Feng
- The New York Fertility Center, New York Hospital Queens, Weill Medical College of Cornell University, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Jie Qiao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, No. 49 North HuaYuan Road, Hai Dian District, Beijing, 100191, China. .,Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, No. 49 North HuaYuan Road, Hai Dian District, Beijing, 100191, China. .,Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproduction, No. 49 North HuaYuan Road, Hai Dian District, Beijing, 100191, China. .,Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, No. 38 XueYuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100191, China. .,National Clinical Research Center of Obstetrics and Gynecology, No. 49 North HuaYuan Road, Hai Dian District, Beijing, 100191, China.
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15
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Wang Y, Xu J, Stanley JE, Xu M, Brooks BW, Scott GI, Chatterjee S, Zhang Q, Zelinski MB, Xiao S. A closed vitrification system enables a murine ovarian follicle bank for high-throughput ovotoxicity screening, which identifies endocrine disrupting activity of microcystins. Reprod Toxicol 2020; 93:118-130. [PMID: 32017985 PMCID: PMC7138742 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2020.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2019] [Revised: 01/27/2020] [Accepted: 01/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Increasing evidence reveals that a broad spectrum of environmental chemicals and pharmaceutical compounds cause female ovarian toxicity (ovotoxicity). The current gold standard of ovotoxicity testing largely relies on whole laboratory animals, but in vivo models are time consuming, costly, and present animal welfare concerns. We previously demonstrated that the 3D encapsulated in vitro follicle growth (eIVFG) is a robust in vitro model for ovotoxicity testing. However, the follicle preparation process is complex and highly dependent on technical skills. Here, we aimed to use vitrification method to cryopreserve murine immature follicles for a high-content eIVFG, chemical exposure, and ovotoxicity screening. Results indicated that a closed vitrification system combined with optimized vitrification protocols preserved mouse follicle viability and functionality and vitrified follicles exhibited comparable follicle and oocyte reproductive outcomes to freshly harvested follicles during eIVFG, including follicle survival and development, ovarian steroidogenesis, and oocyte maturation and ovulation. Moreover, vitrified follicles consistently responded to ovotoxic chemical, doxorubicin (DOX). We further used vitrified follicles to test the response of microcystins (MCs), an emerging category of environmental contaminants produced by cyanobacteria associated with harmful algal blooms (HABs), and found that different congeners of MCs exhibited differential ovotoxicities. In summary, our study demonstrates that vitrification enables a long-term-storage and ready-to-use ovarian follicle bank for high-throughput ovotoxicity screening, which identifies endocrine disrupting effects of MCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingzheng Wang
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208, USA; NIEHS Center for Oceans and Human Health and Climate Change Interactions (OHHC(2)I) at the University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208, USA
| | - Jingshan Xu
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208, USA; NIEHS Center for Oceans and Human Health and Climate Change Interactions (OHHC(2)I) at the University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208, USA
| | - Jessica E Stanley
- Division of Reproductive & Developmental Science, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Beaverton, OR 97006, USA
| | - Murong Xu
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208, USA
| | - Bryan W Brooks
- NIEHS Center for Oceans and Human Health and Climate Change Interactions (OHHC(2)I) at the University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208, USA; Department of Environmental Science, Center for Reservoir and Aquatic Systems Research, Institute of Biomedical Studies, Baylor University, Waco, TX 76798, USA
| | - Geoffrey I Scott
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208, USA; NIEHS Center for Oceans and Human Health and Climate Change Interactions (OHHC(2)I) at the University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208, USA
| | - Saurabh Chatterjee
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208, USA; NIEHS Center for Oceans and Human Health and Climate Change Interactions (OHHC(2)I) at the University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208, USA
| | - Qiang Zhang
- Department of Environmental Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Mary B Zelinski
- Division of Reproductive & Developmental Science, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Beaverton, OR 97006, USA; Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA
| | - Shuo Xiao
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208, USA; NIEHS Center for Oceans and Human Health and Climate Change Interactions (OHHC(2)I) at the University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208, USA.
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16
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Grosbois J, Vermeersch M, Devos M, Clarke HJ, Demeestere I. Ultrastructure and intercellular contact-mediated communication in cultured human early stage follicles exposed to mTORC1 inhibitor. Mol Hum Reprod 2019; 25:706-716. [DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaz053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2019] [Revised: 08/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
The reproductive lifespan of a woman is determined by the gradual recruitment of quiescent follicles into the growing pool. In humans, ovarian tissue removal from its in vivo environment induces spontaneous activation of resting follicles. Similarly, pharmacological activation of the PI3K/Akt pathway leads to accelerated follicle recruitment, but has been associated with follicular damage. Recent findings demonstrate that everolimus (EVE), an mTORC1 inhibitor, limits primordial follicle activation. However, its potential benefit regarding growing follicle integrity remains unexplored. Ovarian cortical fragments were exposed to ± EVE for 24 h and cultured for an additional 5 days. After 0, 1 and 6 days of culture, fragments were either processed for ultrastructural analysis or subjected to follicular isolation for gene expression and immunofluorescence assessments. Data from transmission electron microscopy showed that growing follicles displayed similar ultrastructural features irrespective of the conditions and maintained close contacts between germinal and stromal compartments. Establishment of intra-follicular communication was confirmed by detection of a gap junction component, Cx43, in both groups throughout culture, whereas transzonal projections, which physically link granulosa cells to oocyte, formed later in EVE-treated follicles. Importantly, levels of GJA1 mRNA, encoding for the Cx43 protein, significantly increased from Day 0 to Day 1 in the EVE group, but not in the control group. Given that EVE-treated follicles were smaller than controls, these findings suggest that EVE might facilitate the establishment of appropriate intercellular communications without impairing follicle ultrastructure. Therefore, mTORC1 inhibitors might represent an attractive tool to delay the culture-induced primordial follicle activation while maintaining follicles in a functionally integrated state.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Grosbois
- Research Laboratory in Human Reproduction, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - M Vermeersch
- Center for Microscopy and Molecular Imaging (CMMI), Université Libre de Bruxelles, Gosselies, Belgium
| | - M Devos
- Research Laboratory in Human Reproduction, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - H J Clarke
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Biology, and Experimental Medicine, McGill University, McGill University Health Centre Research Institute, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - I Demeestere
- Research Laboratory in Human Reproduction, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Erasme Hospital, Brussels, Belgium
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17
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Barbato V, Gualtieri R, Capriglione T, Pallotta MM, Braun S, Di Nardo M, Costanzo V, Ferraro R, Catapano G, Talevi R. Slush nitrogen vitrification of human ovarian tissue does not alter gene expression and improves follicle health and progression in long-term in vitro culture. Fertil Steril 2019; 110:1356-1366. [PMID: 30503135 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2018.08.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2018] [Revised: 08/08/2018] [Accepted: 08/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To study whether slush nitrogen (SN) vs. liquid nitrogen (LN) vitrification affects human ovarian tissue gene expression and preserves follicle health during extended in vitro culture. DESIGN Randomized experimental study. SETTING University research laboratory. PATIENT(S) Ovarian biopsies collected by laparoscopic surgery from patients with benign gynaecologic conditions. INTERVENTION(S) None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Ovarian strips were vitrified with LN or SN, warmed, and analyzed before or after culture for 9 days (d9) in gas-permeable dishes. Expression of genes involved in stress and toxicity pathways was analyzed in fresh and warmed strips by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) array and quantitative real-time-PCR. Fresh and vitrified/warmed strips were analyzed for follicle quality, progression, and viability before or after culture. RESULT(S) The SN vitrification preserved follicle quality better than LN (% grade 1 follicles: fresh control, 54.2; LN, 29.3; SN, 48.8). Quantitative reverse transcription-PCR demonstrated a noticeable up-regulation of 13 genes in LN samples (range, 10-35) and a markedly lower up-regulation of only 5 genes (range, 3.6-7.8) in SN samples. Long-term in vitro culture evidenced worse follicle quality and viability in LN samples than in both fresh and SN samples (% grade 1 follicle: fresh d0, 51.5; fresh d9, 41; LN d9, 16.4; SN d9, 55) and a highly significant reduction of primordial follicles and a concomitant increase of primary and secondary follicles in all samples. Follicle growth to the secondary stage was significantly higher in vitrified tissue than in fresh tissue, being better in SN than in LN vitrified tissue. CONCLUSION(S) Follicle quality, gene expression, viability, and progression are better preserved after SN vitrification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincenza Barbato
- Dipartimento di Biologia, Università di Napoli "Federico II", Complesso Universitario di Monte S Angelo, Napoli, Italy
| | - Roberto Gualtieri
- Dipartimento di Biologia, Università di Napoli "Federico II", Complesso Universitario di Monte S Angelo, Napoli, Italy
| | - Teresa Capriglione
- Dipartimento di Biologia, Università di Napoli "Federico II", Complesso Universitario di Monte S Angelo, Napoli, Italy
| | - Maria Michela Pallotta
- Dipartimento di Biologia, Università di Napoli "Federico II", Complesso Universitario di Monte S Angelo, Napoli, Italy
| | - Sabrina Braun
- Dipartimento di Biologia, Università di Napoli "Federico II", Complesso Universitario di Monte S Angelo, Napoli, Italy
| | - Maddalena Di Nardo
- Dipartimento di Biologia, Università di Napoli "Federico II", Complesso Universitario di Monte S Angelo, Napoli, Italy
| | - Valentina Costanzo
- Dipartimento di Biologia, Università di Napoli "Federico II", Complesso Universitario di Monte S Angelo, Napoli, Italy
| | | | - Gerardo Catapano
- Dipartimento di Ingegneria Meccanica, Energetica e Gestionale, Università della Calabria, Rende (CS), Italia
| | - Riccardo Talevi
- Dipartimento di Biologia, Università di Napoli "Federico II", Complesso Universitario di Monte S Angelo, Napoli, Italy.
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18
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Turathum B, Roytrakul S, Changsangfa C, Sroyraya M, Tanasawet S, Kitiyanant Y, Saikhun K. Missing and overexpressing proteins in domestic cat oocytes following vitrification and in vitro maturation as revealed by proteomic analysis. Biol Res 2018; 51:27. [PMID: 30124164 PMCID: PMC6100730 DOI: 10.1186/s40659-018-0176-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2018] [Accepted: 08/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The domestic cat serves as an animal model for assisted reproductive studies of endangered felid species. To date, there are no data on the protein alterations following cryopreservation of oocytes in felid family. Methods Immature (germinal vesicle) domestic cat oocytes were vitrified in the vitrification solution containing 35% ethylene glycol, 20% DMSO and 0.5 mM sucrose. The vitrified-warmed oocytes were matured (metaphase II) in vitro and subjected to proteomic analysis using 1DE SDS-PAGE prefractionation combined with LC–MS/MS. Results A total of 1712 proteins were identified in in vitro matured oocytes. Of the 1712 proteins, 1454 proteins were found in both groups, whereas, 258 proteins were differentially expressed between control and vitrified-warmed groups. In vitrified-warmed oocytes, the missing proteins were membrane and nuclear proteins; whereas, apoptosis and DNA repair proteins were overrepresented. Conclusions The identified missing and overexpressed proteins in vitrified-warmed oocytes represent potential markers of cryoinjuries and the developmental pathways of oocytes. The findings of differential expressed proteins may contribute to effective ways of proteome analysis of oocyte/embryo quality in order to assess safety of cryopreservation in felid species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bongkoch Turathum
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10400, Thailand
| | - Sittiruk Roytrakul
- National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, National Science and Technology Development Agency, Pathumthani, 12121, Thailand
| | - Chinarat Changsangfa
- Institute of Molecular Biosciences, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, 73170, Thailand
| | - Morakot Sroyraya
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10400, Thailand
| | - Supita Tanasawet
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Science, Prince of Songkla University, Hat Yai, 90110, Thailand
| | - Yindee Kitiyanant
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10400, Thailand
| | - Kulnasan Saikhun
- Institute of Molecular Biosciences, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, 73170, Thailand.
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19
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Lee J, Kim EJ, Kong HS, Youm HW, Kim SK, Lee JR, Suh CS, Kim SH. Establishment of an improved vitrification protocol by combinations of vitrification medium for isolated mouse ovarian follicles. Theriogenology 2018; 121:97-103. [PMID: 30144737 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2018.07.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2018] [Revised: 07/11/2018] [Accepted: 07/23/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
In vitro follicle growth (IVFG) is an emerging alternative option for fertility preservation in women instead of ovarian tissue cryopreservation and transplantation. To widen the application of this technique, follicle cryopreservation should be established prior to clinical use. In the present study, we tried to determine the optimal vitrification protocol of mouse ovarian follicle for in vitro culture and oocyte maturation by comparing four different compositions of cryoprotective agents (CPA). Secondary follicles were mechanically isolated from 2-week-old BDF-1 mice and randomly assigned to fresh control and four different groups by the composition of CPAs (ES, EDS, EFS and EPS groups; E: ethylene glycol, D: dimethyl sulfoxide, S: sucrose, F: ficoll, P: 1,2-propanediol (PROH)). After vitrification and warming procedures, the follicles were cultured in vitro for 10 days and then treated with human chorionic gonadotropin and epidermal growth factor to induce oocyte maturation. Fourteen to 16 h later, oocyte maturation and quality were assessed. Follicle viability was evaluated by Calcein-AM/ethidium homodimer-1 staining immediately after warming, and their survival and diameters were measured during follicle culture periods. Antral cavity formation was observed at the end of the culture period (on the 10th day of culture). Following oocyte maturation, its maturational ability and meiotic spindle formation were assessed to evaluate their competence. There was no significant difference in viability after warming among the vitrification groups. From the 8th day of culture, the survival rate of ES and EDS were significantly higher than those of other vitrification groups (EPS and EFS). The follicle diameter was largest in the fresh-control group from the 6th day, while smallest in the EFS with statistical significance. On the 10th day of culture, the antral-cavity formation rate of EDS was comparable to that of the fresh control group. However, the oocyte maturation was significantly decreased in all four vitrification groups when compared with control group; especially, the EFS showed a more marked reduction in the oocyte maturation. There were no significant differences in meiotic spindle formation among all of those groups. Our results suggest that EDS combination for mouse follicle vitrification are the most effective vitrification protocols for mouse follicle and evaluated by an in vitro culture and oocyte maturation after warming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaewang Lee
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Sciences, Eulji University, Seongnam, South Korea; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, South Korea
| | - Eun Jung Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, South Korea; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Hyun Sun Kong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, South Korea; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Hye Won Youm
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, South Korea
| | - Seul Ki Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, South Korea; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jung Ryeol Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, South Korea; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea.
| | - Chang Suk Suh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Seok Hyun Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, South Korea
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20
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Comparison of the Oocyte Quality Derived from Two-Dimensional Follicle Culture Methods and Developmental Competence of In Vitro Grown and Matured Oocytes. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2018; 2018:7907092. [PMID: 29850567 PMCID: PMC5904821 DOI: 10.1155/2018/7907092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2017] [Revised: 01/30/2018] [Accepted: 02/28/2018] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
In vitro follicle growth (IVFG) is an emerging fertility preservation technique, which can obtain fertilizable oocytes from an in vitro culture system in female. This study aimed to compare efficiency of the most widely used two-dimensional follicle culture methods [with or without oil layer (O+ or O- group)]. Preantral follicles were isolated from mice and randomly assigned. Follicles were cultured for 10 days and cumulus-oocyte complexes harvested 16-18 hours after hCG treatment. Follicle and oocyte growth, hormones in spent medium, meiotic spindle localization, expression of reactive oxygen species (ROS), mitochondrial activity, and gene expression were evaluated. In follicle growth, survival, pseudoantral cavity formation, ovulation, and oocyte maturation were also significantly higher in O+ group than O- group. Hormone production was significantly higher in follicles cultured in O+ than O-. There were no significant differences in mRNA expression related to development. On the other hand, the level of ROS was increased while the mitochondrial activity of in vitro grown matured oocyte was less than in vivo matured oocytes. In conclusion, follicle culture with O+ group appears to be superior to the culture in O- group in terms of follicle growth, development, oocyte growth, maturation, and microorganelles in oocyte.
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21
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Kong HS, Kim EJ, Youm HW, Kim SK, Lee JR, Suh CS, Kim SH. Improvement in Ovarian Tissue Quality with Supplementation of Antifreeze Protein during Warming of Vitrified Mouse Ovarian Tissue. Yonsei Med J 2018; 59:331-336. [PMID: 29436204 PMCID: PMC5823838 DOI: 10.3349/ymj.2018.59.2.331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2017] [Revised: 10/29/2017] [Accepted: 11/12/2017] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Ice easily recrystallizes during warming after vitrification, and antifreeze protein (AFP) can inhibit the re-crystallization. However, no study has evaluated the effect of AFP treatment only thereon during warming. This study sought to compare AFP treatment protocols: a conventional protocol with AFP treatment during vitrification and first-step warming and a new protocol with AFP treatment during the first-step warming only. According to the protocols, 10 mg/mL of LeIBP (a type of AFP) was used. Five-week-old B6D2F1 mouse ovaries were randomly divided into a vitrified-warmed control and two experimental groups, one treated with the conventional AFP treatment protocol (LeIBP-all) and the other with the new AFP treatment protocol (LeIBP-w). For evaluation, ratios of ovarian follicle integrity, apoptosis, and DNA double-strand (DDS) damage/repairing were analyzed. The LeIBP-treated groups showed significantly higher intact follicle ratios than the control, and the results were similar between the LeIBP-treated groups. Apoptotic follicle ratios were significantly lower in both LeIBP-treated groups than the control, and the results were not significantly different between the LeIBP-treated groups. With regard to DDS damage/repairing follicle ratio, significantly lower ratios were recorded in both LeIBP-treated groups, compared to the control, and the results were similar between the LeIBP-treated groups. This study demonstrated that both protocols with LeIBP had a beneficial effect on maintaining follicle integrity and preventing follicle apoptosis and DDS damage. Moreover, the new protocol showed similar results to the conventional protocol. This new protocol could optimize the mouse ovary vitrification-warming procedure using AFP, while minimizing the treatment steps.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyun Sun Kong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, Korea
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Eun Jung Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, Korea
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hye Won Youm
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, Korea
| | - Seul Ki Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, Korea
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jung Ryeol Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, Korea
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.
| | - Chang Suk Suh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Seok Hyun Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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22
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Khalili MA, Shahedi A, Ashourzadeh S, Nottola SA, Macchiarelli G, Palmerini MG. Vitrification of human immature oocytes before and after in vitro maturation: a review. J Assist Reprod Genet 2017; 34:1413-1426. [PMID: 28822010 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-017-1005-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2017] [Accepted: 07/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The use of immature oocytes subjected to in vitro maturation (IVM) opens interesting perspectives for fertility preservation where ovarian reserves are damaged by pathologies or therapies, as in PCO/PCOS and cancer patients. Human oocyte cryopreservation may offer some advantages compared to embryo freezing, such as fertility preservation in women at risk of losing fertility due to oncological treatment or chronic disease, egg donation and postponing childbirth. It also eliminates religious and/or other ethical, legal, and moral concerns of embryo freezing. In addition, a successful oocyte cryopreservation program could eliminate the need for donor and recipient menstrual cycle synchronization. Recent advances in vitrification technology have markedly improved the oocyte survival rate after warming, with fertilization and implantation rates comparable with those of fresh oocytes. Healthy live births can be achieved from the combination of IVM and vitrification, even if vitrification of in vivo matured oocytes is still more effective. Recently, attention is given to highlight whether vitrification procedures are more successful when performed before or after IVM, on immature GV-stage oocytes, or on in vitro matured MII-stage oocytes. In this review, we emphasize that, even if there are no differences in survival rates between oocytes vitrified prior to or post-IVM, reduced maturation rates of immature oocytes vitrified prior to IVM can be, at least in part, explained by underlying ultrastructural and biomolecular alterations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Ali Khalili
- Research and Clinical Center for Infertility, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran.,Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Abbas Shahedi
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Sareh Ashourzadeh
- Research and Clinical Center for Infertility, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran.,Afzalipour Clinical Center for Infertility, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Stefania Annarita Nottola
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic Medicine and Orthopaedics, University of Rome La Sapienza, Rome, Italy
| | - Guido Macchiarelli
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Maria Grazia Palmerini
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy.
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Jiang Z, Wang Y, Lin J, Xu J, Ding G, Huang H. Genetic and epigenetic risks of assisted reproduction. Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol 2017; 44:90-104. [PMID: 28844405 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2017.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2017] [Revised: 07/22/2017] [Accepted: 07/26/2017] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Assisted reproductive technology (ART) is used primarily for infertility treatments to achieve pregnancy and involves procedures such as in vitro fertilization (IVF), intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), and cryopreservation. Moreover, preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) of ART is used in couples for genetic reasons. In ART treatments, gametes and zygotes are exposed to a series of non-physiological processes and culture media. Although the majority of children born with this treatment are healthy, some concerns remain regarding the safety of this technology. Animal studies and follow-up studies of ART-borne children suggested that ART was associated with an increased incidence of genetic, physical, or developmental abnormalities, although there are also observations that contradict these findings. As IVF, ICSI, frozen-thawed embryo transfer, and PGD manipulate gametes and embryo at a time that is important for reprogramming, they may affect epigenetic stability, leading to gamete/embryo origins of adult diseases. In fact, ART offspring have been reported to have an increased risk of gamete/embryo origins of adult diseases, such as early-onset diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and so on. In this review, we will discuss evidence related to genetic, especially epigenetic, risks of assisted reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziru Jiang
- The International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yinyu Wang
- The International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jing Lin
- The International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jingjing Xu
- The International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Guolian Ding
- The International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China; Institute of Embryo-Fetal Original Adult Disease, Shanghai Key Laboratory for Reproductive Medicine, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hefeng Huang
- The International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China; Institute of Embryo-Fetal Original Adult Disease, Shanghai Key Laboratory for Reproductive Medicine, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.
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24
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Velker BAM, Denomme MM, Krafty RT, Mann MRW. Maintenance of Mest imprinted methylation in blastocyst-stage mouse embryos is less stable than other imprinted loci following superovulation or embryo culture. ENVIRONMENTAL EPIGENETICS 2017; 3:dvx015. [PMID: 29492315 PMCID: PMC5804554 DOI: 10.1093/eep/dvx015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2017] [Revised: 06/07/2017] [Accepted: 07/19/2017] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Assisted reproductive technologies are fertility treatments used by subfertile couples to conceive their biological child. Although generally considered safe, these pregnancies have been linked to genomic imprinting disorders, including Beckwith-Wiedemann and Silver-Russell Syndromes. Silver-Russell Syndrome is a growth disorder characterized by pre- and post-natal growth retardation. The Mest imprinted domain is one candidate region on chromosome 7 implicated in Silver-Russell Syndrome. We have previously shown that maintenance of imprinted methylation was disrupted by superovulation or embryo culture during pre-implantation mouse development. For superovulation, this disruption did not originate in oogenesis as a methylation acquisition defect. However, in comparison to other genes, Mest exhibits late methylation acquisition kinetics, possibly making Mest more vulnerable to perturbation by environmental insult. In this study, we present a comprehensive evaluation of the effects of superovulation and in vitro culture on genomic imprinting at the Mest gene. Superovulation resulted in disruption of imprinted methylation at the maternal Mest allele in blastocysts with an equal frequency of embryos having methylation errors following low or high hormone treatment. This disruption was not due to a failure of imprinted methylation acquisition at Mest in oocytes. For cultured embryos, both the Fast and Slow culture groups experienced a significant loss of maternal Mest methylation compared to in vivo-derived controls. This loss of methylation was independent of development rates in culture. These results indicate that Mest is more susceptible to imprinted methylation maintenance errors compared to other imprinted genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brenna A. M. Velker
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Western Ontario, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, London, ON, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Western Ontario, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, London, ON, Canada
- Children’s Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada
| | - Michelle M. Denomme
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Western Ontario, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, London, ON, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Western Ontario, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, London, ON, Canada
- Children’s Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada
- Fertility Laboratories Of Colorado, 10290 Ridgegate Circle, Lonetree, CO 80124 USA
| | - Robert T. Krafty
- Department of Biostatistics, Graduate School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Mellissa R. W. Mann
- Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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25
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Guzel Y, Oktem O. Understanding follicle growth in vitro: Are we getting closer to obtaining mature oocytes from in vitro-grown follicles in human? Mol Reprod Dev 2017; 84:544-559. [PMID: 28452156 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.22822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2017] [Revised: 03/06/2017] [Accepted: 04/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Obtaining and fertilizing mature oocytes from immature follicles that were grown outside the body has conceptually attracted scientists for centuries, with initial attempts first documented in the 19th century. Significant progress has been made since then, due in part to a better understanding of folliculogenesis and improved techniques of in vitro follicle growth. Indeed, in vitro growth is now considered a reasonable approach to preserve or restore fertility when immature follicles and their oocytes need to be grown and matured outside the body. Certain patients would benefit from in vitro follicle growth, particularly those who carry a risk of cancer re-seeding after grafting of frozen-thawed ovarian tissue or who are at the risk of premature ovarian failure due to several intrinsic ovarian defects and genetic mutations that lead to accelerated follicle atresia and early exhaustion of the ovarian reserve. This review provides an update on the current status of in vitro growth of preantral human follicles, from initial efforts to the most recent achievements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yilmaz Guzel
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Istanbul Aydin University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ozgur Oktem
- Division Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Koc University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey.,Women's Health Center, Assisted Reproduction Unit, American Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
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26
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Anckaert E, Fair T. DNA methylation reprogramming during oogenesis and interference by reproductive technologies: Studies in mouse and bovine models. Reprod Fertil Dev 2017; 27:739-54. [PMID: 25976160 DOI: 10.1071/rd14333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2014] [Accepted: 04/01/2015] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) to overcome fertility problems has continued to increase since the birth of the first baby conceived by ART over 30 years ago. Similarly, embryo transfer is widely used as a mechanism to advance genetic gain in livestock. Despite repeated optimisation of ART treatments, pre- and postnatal outcomes remain compromised. Epigenetic mechanisms play a fundamental role in successful gametogenesis and development. The best studied of these is DNA methylation; the appropriate establishment of DNA methylation patterns in gametes and early embryos is essential for healthy development. Superovulation studies in the mouse indicate that specific ARTs are associated with normal imprinting establishment in oocytes, but abnormal imprinting maintenance in embryos. A similar limited impact of ART on oocytes has been reported in cattle, whereas the majority of embryo-focused studies have used cloned embryos, which do exhibit aberrant DNA methylation. The present review discusses the impact of ART on oocyte and embryo DNA methylation with regard to data available from mouse and bovine models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen Anckaert
- Follicle Biology Laboratory and Center for Reproductive Medicine, UZ Brussel, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 101, Brussels 1090, Belgium
| | - Trudee Fair
- School of Agriculture and Food Sciences, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
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27
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Faustino LR, Carvalho AA, Silva CMG, Rossetto R, Lopes CAP, van Tilburg MF, Carneiro PBM, Báo SN, Moura AAA, Bordignon V, Figueiredo JR, Rodrigues APR. Assessment of DNA damage in goat preantral follicles after vitrification of the ovarian cortex. Reprod Fertil Dev 2017; 27:440-8. [PMID: 25481978 DOI: 10.1071/rd13164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2013] [Accepted: 11/23/2013] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Effective methods for gamete preservation should have low impact on DNA integrity. The present study investigated the effects of vitrification of goat ovarian tissues on the occurrence of DNA fragmentation and DNA double-stand breaks using the terminal deoxyribonucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP-digoxigenin nick end-labelling (TUNEL) assay and detection of phosphorylated histone H2AX (γH2AX), respectively. Goat ovaries were collected at a local abattoir and 12 tissue fragments were prepared from each ovarian pair. Tissue fragments were used as fresh control samples or were cultured in vitro, vitrified or vitrified and cultured. Vitrification was performed using the Ovarian Tissue Cryosystem. Fragments from all groups (control and treatments) were processed for histology, transmission electron microscopy, TUNEL assay and immunofluorescence. Compared with fresh control samples, a lower percentage of morphologically normal follicles was detected in the vitrification followed by culture treatment group (P<0.05). Normal follicular ultrastructure was observed in all groups. Immunofluorescence revealed the presence of γH2AX foci in few oocytes and ovarian stromal cells. TUNEL-positive follicles were found in samples without significant differences among groups (P>0.05). In conclusion, the vitrification protocol used in the present study did not increase DNA damage in preantral follicles enclosed in goat ovarian tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luciana R Faustino
- Laboratory of Manipulation of Oocytes and Preantral Follicles (LAMOFOPA), Faculty of Veterinary, State University of Ceará, Av. Paranjana, 1700, Campus do Itaperi, Fortaleza, CE 60740-930, Brazil
| | - Adeline A Carvalho
- Laboratory of Manipulation of Oocytes and Preantral Follicles (LAMOFOPA), Faculty of Veterinary, State University of Ceará, Av. Paranjana, 1700, Campus do Itaperi, Fortaleza, CE 60740-930, Brazil
| | - Cleidson M G Silva
- Laboratory of Manipulation of Oocytes and Preantral Follicles (LAMOFOPA), Faculty of Veterinary, State University of Ceará, Av. Paranjana, 1700, Campus do Itaperi, Fortaleza, CE 60740-930, Brazil
| | - Rafael Rossetto
- Laboratory of Manipulation of Oocytes and Preantral Follicles (LAMOFOPA), Faculty of Veterinary, State University of Ceará, Av. Paranjana, 1700, Campus do Itaperi, Fortaleza, CE 60740-930, Brazil
| | - Cláudio A P Lopes
- Laboratory of Manipulation of Oocytes and Preantral Follicles (LAMOFOPA), Faculty of Veterinary, State University of Ceará, Av. Paranjana, 1700, Campus do Itaperi, Fortaleza, CE 60740-930, Brazil
| | - Maurício F van Tilburg
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Department of Animal Science, Federal University of Ceará, Av. Mister Hull, s/n Campus do Pici, Fortaleza, CE 60021-970, Brazil
| | - Pedro B M Carneiro
- Institute of Marine Science (LABOMAR), Federal University of Ceará, Av. Abolição, 3207, Meireles, Fortaleza, CE 60165-081, Brazil
| | - Sônia N Báo
- Laboratory of Electron Microscopy, Department of Cell Biology, University of Brasilia, Campus Darcy Ribeiro, Asa Norte, Brasília, DF 70919-970, Brazil
| | - Arlindo A A Moura
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Department of Animal Science, Federal University of Ceará, Av. Mister Hull, s/n Campus do Pici, Fortaleza, CE 60021-970, Brazil
| | - Vilceu Bordignon
- Department of Animal Science, McGill University, 21,111 Lakeshore Road, Ste. Anne de Bellevue, Quebec, H9X 3V9, Canada
| | - José R Figueiredo
- Laboratory of Manipulation of Oocytes and Preantral Follicles (LAMOFOPA), Faculty of Veterinary, State University of Ceará, Av. Paranjana, 1700, Campus do Itaperi, Fortaleza, CE 60740-930, Brazil
| | - Ana Paula R Rodrigues
- Laboratory of Manipulation of Oocytes and Preantral Follicles (LAMOFOPA), Faculty of Veterinary, State University of Ceará, Av. Paranjana, 1700, Campus do Itaperi, Fortaleza, CE 60740-930, Brazil
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28
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Young F, Drummond J, Akers E, Bartle L, Kennedy D, Asaduzzaman M. Effects of ovarian disaggregation on adult murine follicle yield and viability. Reprod Fertil Dev 2017; 29:2400-2410. [DOI: 10.1071/rd16398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2016] [Accepted: 04/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Follicles are isolated from ovaries for numerous reasons, including IVM, but adult murine yields are <2 follicles mg−1. The aim of the present study was to optimise ovarian disaggregation and develop methods applicable to the rapid screening of follicle viability. Ovaries from adult mice (n = 7) were halved and disaggregated mechanically, or by using collagenase IV (Col-IV; 590 U mL−1) or animal origin-free collagenase IV (AOF) at 590 or 1180 U mL−1. Isolated follicles were stained with 4′,6′-diamidino-2-phenylindole (DAPI; nuclei), chloromethyl-X-rosamine (CMXRos; mitochondria) or fluorescein isothiocyanate-conjugated anti-α-tubulin antibody. Follicle diameters and staining were measured and analysed using ImageJ, and data analysed using GraphPad Prism. Col-IV disaggregation yielded the highest number of follicles (17 ± 10 follicles mg−1 ovarian tissue). All disaggregation methods released more secondary follicles (86 ± 20 per ovary; P < 0.05) than any other size cohort. Mechanical and Col-IV disaggregation yielded similar numbers of morphologically intact follicles, whereas AOF disaggregation caused more damage (P < 0.01). As the morphological disruption increased, DAPI and CMXRos staining decreased (P < 0.05), and tubulin localisation became more heterogeneous. Col-IV disaggregation gave the best yield of morphologically intact follicles containing viable granulosa cells. In conclusion, we improved adult murine follicle yields and applied molecular markers to assess follicle morphology, cellular cytoskeleton and mitochondrial function.
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29
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Demond H, Trapphoff T, Dankert D, Heiligentag M, Grümmer R, Horsthemke B, Eichenlaub-Ritter U. Preovulatory Aging In Vivo and In Vitro Affects Maturation Rates, Abundance of Selected Proteins, Histone Methylation Pattern and Spindle Integrity in Murine Oocytes. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0162722. [PMID: 27611906 PMCID: PMC5017692 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0162722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2016] [Accepted: 08/26/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Delayed ovulation and delayed fertilization can lead to reduced developmental competence of the oocyte. In contrast to the consequences of postovulatory aging of the oocyte, hardly anything is known about the molecular processes occurring during oocyte maturation if ovulation is delayed (preovulatory aging). We investigated several aspects of oocyte maturation in two models of preovulatory aging: an in vitro follicle culture and an in vivo mouse model in which ovulation was postponed using the GnRH antagonist cetrorelix. Both models showed significantly reduced oocyte maturation rates after aging. Furthermore, in vitro preovulatory aging deregulated the protein abundance of the maternal effect genes Smarca4 and Nlrp5, decreased the levels of histone H3K9 trimethylation and caused major deterioration of chromosome alignment and spindle conformation. Protein abundance of YBX2, an important regulator of mRNA stability, storage and recruitment in the oocyte, was not affected by in vitro aging. In contrast, in vivo preovulatory aging led to reduction in Ybx2 transcript and YBX2 protein abundance. Taken together, preovulatory aging seems to affect various processes in the oocyte, which could explain the low maturation rates and the previously described failures in fertilization and embryonic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Demond
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Tom Trapphoff
- Institute of Gene Technology/Microbiology, University of Bielefeld, Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Deborah Dankert
- Institute of Anatomy, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Martyna Heiligentag
- Institute of Gene Technology/Microbiology, University of Bielefeld, Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Ruth Grümmer
- Institute of Anatomy, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Bernhard Horsthemke
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
- * E-mail:
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Trapphoff T, Heiligentag M, Simon J, Staubach N, Seidel T, Otte K, Fröhlich T, Arnold GJ, Eichenlaub-Ritter U. Improved cryotolerance and developmental potential of in vitro and in vivo matured mouse oocytes by supplementing with a glutathione donor prior to vitrification. Mol Hum Reprod 2016; 22:867-881. [PMID: 27604460 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaw059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2016] [Revised: 08/22/2016] [Accepted: 09/05/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Can supplementation of media with a glutathione (GSH) donor, glutathione ethyl ester (GEE), prior to vitrification protect the mouse oocyte from oxidative damage and critical changes in redox homeostasis, and thereby improve cryotolerance? SUMMARY ANSWER GEE supplementation supported redox regulation, rapid recovery of spindle and chromosome alignment after vitrification/warming and improved preimplantation development of mouse metaphase II (MII) oocytes. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Cryopreservation may affect mitochondrial functionality, induce oxidative stress, and thereby affect spindle integrity, chromosome segregation and the quality of mammalian oocytes. GEE is a membrane permeable GSH donor that promoted fertilization and early embryonic development of macaque and bovine oocytes after IVM. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Two experimental groups consisted of (i) denuded mouse germinal vesicle (GV) oocytes that were matured in vitro in the presence or absence of 1 mM GEE (IVM group 1) and (ii) in vivo ovulated (IVO) MII oocytes that were isolated from the ampullae and exposed to 1 mM GEE for 1 h prior to vitrification (IVO group 2). Recovery of oocytes from both groups was followed after CryoTop vitrification/warming for up to 2 h and parthenogenetic activation. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Reactive oxygen species (ROS), spindle morphology and chromosome alignment were analyzed by confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) and polarization microscopy in control and GEE-supplemented MII oocytes. The relative overall intra-oocyte GSH content was assessed by analysis of monochlorobimane (MBC)-GSH adduct fluorescence in IVM MII oocytes. The GSH-dependent intra-mitochondrial redox potential (EmGSH) of IVM MII oocytes was determined after microinjection with specific mRNA at the GV stage to express a redox-sensitive probe within mitochondria (mito-Grx1-roGFP2). The absolute negative redox capacity (in millivolts) was determined by analysis of fluorescence of the oxidized versus the reduced form of sensor by CLSM and quantification according to Nernst equation. Proteome analysis was performed by quantitative 2D saturation gel electrophoresis (2D DIGE). Since microinjection and expression of redox sensor mRNA required removal of cumulus cells, and IVM of denuded mouse oocytes in group 1 induces zona hardening, the development to blastocysts was not assessed after IVF but instead after parthenogenetic activation of vitrified/warmed MII oocytes from both experimental groups. MAIN RESULTS AND ROLE OF CHANCE IVM of denuded mouse oocytes in the presence of 1 mM GEE significantly increased intra-oocyte GSH content. ROS was not increased by CryoTop vitrification but was significantly lower in the IVM GEE group compared to IVM without GEE before vitrification and after recovery from vitrification/warming (P < 0.001). Vitrification alone significantly increased the GSH-dependent intra-mitochondrial redox capacity after warming (EmGSH, P < 0.001) in IVM oocytes, presumably by diffusion/uptake of cytoplasmic GSH into mitochondria. The presence of 1 mM GEE during IVM increased the redox capacity before vitrification and there was no further increase after vitrification/warming. None of the reproducibly detected 1492 spots of 2D DIGE separated proteins were significantly altered by vitrification or GEE supplementation. However, IVM of denuded oocytes significantly affected spindle integrity and chromosome alignment right after warming from vitrification (0 h) in group 1 and spindle integrity in group 2 (P < 0.05). GEE improved recovery in IVM group as numbers of oocytes with unaligned chromosomes and aberrant spindles was not significantly increased compared to unvitrified controls. The supplementation with GEE for 1 h before vitrification also supported more rapid recovery of spindle birefringence. GEE improved significantly development to the 2-cell stage for MII oocytes that were activated directly after vitrification/warming in both experimental groups, and also the blastocyst rate in the IVO GEE-supplemented group compared to the controls (P < 0.05). LARGE SCALE DATA None LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION: The studies were carried out in a mouse model, in IVM denuded rather than cumulus-enclosed oocytes, and in activated rather than IVF MII oocytes. Whether the increased GSH-dependent intra-mitochondrial redox capacity also improves male pronuclear formation needs to be studied further experimentally. The influence of GEE supplementation requires also further examination and optimization in human oocytes before it can be considered for clinical ART. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Although GEE supplementation did not alter the proteome at MII, the GSH donor may support cellular homeostasis and redox regulation and, thus, increase developmental competence. While human MII oocyte vitrification is an established procedure, GEE might be particularly beneficial for oocytes that suffer from oxidative stress and reduced redox capacity (e.g. aged oocytes) or possess low GSH due to a reduced supply of GSH from cumulus. It might also be of relevance for immature human oocytes that develop without cumulus to MII in vitro (e.g. in ICSI cycles) for ART. STUDY FUNDING AND COMPETING INTERESTS The study has been supported by the German Research Foundation (DFG FOR 1041; EI 199/3-2). There are no conflict of interests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tom Trapphoff
- Institute of Gene Technology/Microbiology, University of Bielefeld, 33501 Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Martyna Heiligentag
- Institute of Gene Technology/Microbiology, University of Bielefeld, 33501 Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Jenny Simon
- Institute of Gene Technology/Microbiology, University of Bielefeld, 33501 Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Nora Staubach
- Institute of Gene Technology/Microbiology, University of Bielefeld, 33501 Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Thorsten Seidel
- Dynamic Cell Imaging, Faculty of Biology, University of Bielefeld, 33501 Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Kathrin Otte
- Laboratory for Functional Genome Analysis (LAFUGA), Gene Center, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany
| | - Thomas Fröhlich
- Laboratory for Functional Genome Analysis (LAFUGA), Gene Center, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany
| | - Georg J Arnold
- Laboratory for Functional Genome Analysis (LAFUGA), Gene Center, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany
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Abdi S, Salehnia M, Hosseinkhani S. Quality of Oocytes Derived from Vitrified Ovarian Follicles Cultured in Two- and Three-Dimensional Culture System in the Presence and Absence of Kit Ligand. Biopreserv Biobank 2016; 14:279-88. [DOI: 10.1089/bio.2015.0069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Shabnam Abdi
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mojdeh Salehnia
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saman Hosseinkhani
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
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Hajj NE, Kuhtz J, Haaf T. Limiting Dilution Bisulfite Pyrosequencing®: A Method for Methylation Analysis of Individual DNA Molecules in a Single or a Few Cells. Methods Mol Biol 2016; 1315:221-39. [PMID: 26103903 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-2715-9_17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Bisulfite-based methods for DNA methylation analysis of small amounts of DNA from a limited number of cells are technologically challenging. Degradation of genomic DNA by bisulfite treatment, contamination with foreign DNA, and biases in the amplification of individual DNA molecules can generate results, which are not representative of the starting sample. Limiting dilution (LD) bisulfite Pyrosequencing(®) (BSP) is a relatively simple technique to circumvent these problems. The bisulfite-treated DNA of a single or a few cells is diluted to an extent, that only a single DNA target molecule is present in the reaction. Then each individual DNA molecule in the starting sample is separately amplified and analyzed by Pyrosequencing. This allows the detection of rare alleles that are easily masked when pools of DNA target molecules are analyzed. Amplicons containing a heterozygous single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) allow one to delineate the parental origin of the recovered molecules in addition to their methylation status. The number of cells (DNA target molecules) in the starting sample determines the dilution level and the number of reactions that have to be performed. LD-BSP allows methylation analysis of small cell pools (i.e., 5-10 microdissected cells) and even individual cells. The primers and PCR conditions described here have been successfully employed to analyze the methylation status of up to eight target genes in individual 2-16 cell embryos, germinal vesicle (GV) oocytes, and haploid sperms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nady El Hajj
- Institute of Human Genetics, Julius-Maximilians University Würzburg, Würzburg, 97074, Germany
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Saenz-de-Juano MD, Billooye K, Smitz J, Anckaert E. The loss of imprinted DNA methylation in mouse blastocysts is inflicted to a similar extent by in vitro follicle culture and ovulation induction. Mol Hum Reprod 2016; 22:427-41. [PMID: 26908643 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaw013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2015] [Accepted: 01/29/2016] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY HYPOTHESIS Does in vitro follicle culture (IFC) have an effect on maintenance of imprinted DNA methylation in preimplantation mouse embryos? STUDY FINDING We report similar alterations in the methylation pattern of H19 imprinted maternally expressed transcript (H19), small nuclear ribonucleoprotein polypeptide N (Snrpn) and mesoderm specific transcript (Mest) imprinted genes in mouse blastocysts obtained after ovulation induction and IFC. Furthermore, we observed no differences in the gene expression of maternal effect proteins related with imprinting maintenance between superovulated in vivo grown or IFC oocytes. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Assisted reproductive technology is associated with adverse post-natal outcomes such as increased risk of premature birth, altered birthweight, congenital anomalies and genomic imprinting syndromes in human and in animal models. Previous studies have shown that ovulation induction allowed normal imprinting establishment in mouse oocytes, but interfered with imprinting maintenance during preimplantation . Normal imprinting establishment was also observed in mouse oocytes derived from a standardized IFC from the early pre-antral follicle stage. STUDY DESIGN, SAMPLES/MATERIALS, METHODS The methylation profiles of differentially methylated regions (DMRs) of three key imprinted genes (H19, Snrpn and Mest) were compared at hatched blastocyst stage between embryos obtained from IFC or superovulated oocytes, each subjected to IVF and preimplantation in vitro culture (IVC); in non-manipulated in vivo produced late blastocyst (control) and in in vivo produced 2-cell embryos that were in vitro cultured until the hatched blastocyst stage (to assess the effect of IVC). Two different mice strains (Mus musculus C57BL/6J X CBA/Ca and Mus musculus B6 (CAST7)) were used to discriminate between maternal and paternal alleles of imprinted genes. Additionally, a limiting-dilution bisulfite-sequencing technique was carried out on individual embryos in order to avoid amplification bias. To assess whether IFC and ovulation induction differentially affect the mRNA expression of imprinting maintenance genes in the oocyte, a comparison of DNA methyltransferase 1 (Dnmt1o), methyl-CpG binding domain protein 3 (MBD3) and developmental pluripotency-associated 3 (Dppa3) was performed by qPCR between in vivo and in vitro grown oocytes at the germinal vesicle and metaphase II (MII) stage. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Results showed a loss of global imprinted DNA methylation in all in vitro manipulated embryos, due to an increase in the amount of abnormal alleles (<50% methylated). Importantly, there were no differences in blastocysts obtained from IFC and ovulation induction. Moreover, similar mRNA expression levels for Dnmt1o, MBD3 and Dppa3 genes were observed in IFC and stimulated oocytes. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The methylation analysis was restricted to a number of well-selected imprinted genes. Future studies need to determine whether ovulation induction and IFC affect maternal effect factors at the protein level. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS In vitro maturation of oocytes (IVM) is a patient-friendly alternative to conventional ovarian stimulation in PCOS patients. IFC is an emerging technology in human oncofertility. The results of this study show for the first time that in vitro oocyte culture induces no additional epigenetic alterations compared with conventional ovulation induction, at least for imprinted genes at the hatched blastocyst stage. The mouse IFC system can be used to test the sensitivity of the oocyte during its growth and maturation to several nutritional, metabolic and hormonal conditions possibly linked to epigenetic alterations. LARGE SCALE DATA N/A. STUDY FUNDING AND COMPETING INTERESTS This study received funding by Strategic Research Programs-Groeiers (OZR/2014/97), IWT/TBM/110680 and by UZ Brussel Fonds Willy Gepts (WFWG 2013). There is no conflict of interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- M D Saenz-de-Juano
- Follicle Biology Laboratory, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 101, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - K Billooye
- Follicle Biology Laboratory, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 101, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - J Smitz
- Follicle Biology Laboratory, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 101, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - E Anckaert
- Follicle Biology Laboratory, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 101, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
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Trapphoff T, Heiligentag M, Dankert D, Demond H, Deutsch D, Fröhlich T, Arnold GJ, Grümmer R, Horsthemke B, Eichenlaub-Ritter U. Postovulatory aging affects dynamics of mRNA, expression and localization of maternal effect proteins, spindle integrity and pericentromeric proteins in mouse oocytes. Hum Reprod 2016; 31:133-49. [PMID: 26577303 PMCID: PMC5853592 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dev279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2015] [Revised: 10/06/2015] [Accepted: 10/13/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Is the postovulatory aging-dependent differential decrease of mRNAs and polyadenylation of mRNAs coded by maternal effect genes associated with altered abundance and distribution of maternal effect and RNA-binding proteins (MSY2)? SUMMARY ANSWER Postovulatory aging results in differential reduction in abundance of maternal effect proteins, loss of RNA-binding proteins from specific cytoplasmic domains and critical alterations of pericentromeric proteins without globally affecting protein abundance. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Oocyte postovulatory aging is associated with differential alteration in polyadenylation and reduction in abundance of mRNAs coded by selected maternal effect genes. RNA-binding and -processing proteins are involved in storage, polyadenylation and degradation of mRNAs thus regulating stage-specific recruitment of maternal mRNAs, while chromosomal proteins that are stage-specifically expressed at pericentromeres, contribute to control of chromosome segregation and regulation of gene expression in the zygote. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Germinal vesicle (GV) and metaphase II (MII) oocytes from sexually mature C57B1/6J female mice were investigated. Denuded in vivo or in vitro matured MII oocytes were postovulatory aged and analyzed by semiquantitative confocal microscopy for abundance and localization of polyadenylated RNAs, proteins of maternal effect genes (transcription activator BRG1 also known as ATP-dependent helicase SWI/SNF related, matrix associated, actin dependent regulator of chromatin, subfamily a, member 4 (SMARCA4) and NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain containing 5 (NLRP5) also known as MATER), RNA-binding proteins (MSY2 also known as germ cell-specific Y-box-binding protein, YBX2), and post-transcriptionally modified histones (trimethylated histone H3K9 and acetylated histone H4K12), as well as pericentromeric ATRX (alpha thalassemia/mental retardation syndrome X-linked, also termed ATP-dependent helicase ATRX or X-linked nuclear protein (XNP)). For proteome analysis five replicates of 30 mouse oocytes were analyzed by selected reaction monitoring (SRM). MATERIAL AND METHODS GV and MII oocytes were obtained from large antral follicles or ampullae of sexually mature mice, respectively. Denuded MII oocytes were aged for 24 h post ovulation. For analysis of distribution and abundance of polyadenylated RNAs fixed oocytes were in situ hybridized to Cy5 labeled oligo(dT)20 nucleotides. Absolute quantification of protein concentration per oocyte of selected proteins was done by SRM proteome analysis. Relative abundance of ATRX was assessed by confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) of whole mount formaldehyde fixed oocytes or after removal of zona and spreading. MSY2 protein distribution and abundance was studied in MII oocytes prior to, during and after exposure to nocodazole, or after aging for 2 h in presence of H2O2 or for 24 h in presence of a glutathione donor, glutathione ethylester (GEE). MAIN RESULTS AND ROLE OF CHANCE The significant reduction in abundance of proteins (P < 0.001) translated from maternal mRNAs was independent of polyadenylation status, while their protein localization was not significantly changed by aging. Most of other proteins quantified by SRM analysis did not significantly change in abundance upon aging except MSY2 and GTSF1. MSY2 was enriched in the subcortical RNP domain (SCRD) and in the spindle chromosome complex (SCC) in a distinct pattern, right and left to the chromosomes. There was a significant loss of MSY2 from the SCRD (P < 0.001) and the spindle after postovulatory aging. Microtubule de- and repolymerization caused reversible loss of MSY2 spindle-association whereas H2O2 stress did not significantly decrease MSY2 abundance. Aging in presence of GEE decreased significantly (P < 0.05) the aging-related overall and cytoplasmic loss of MSY2. Postovulatory aging increased significantly spindle abnormalities, unaligned chromosomes, and abundance of acetylated histone H4K12, and decreased pericentromeric trimethylated histone H3K9 (all P < 0.001). Spreading revealed a highly significant increase in pericentromeric ATRX (P < 0.001) upon ageing. Thus, the significantly reduced abundance of MSY2 protein, especially at the SCRD and the spindle may disturb the spatial control and timely recruitment, deadenylation and degradation of developmentally important RNAs. An autonomous program of degradation appears to exist which transiently and specifically induces the loss and displacement of transcripts and specific maternal proteins independent of fertilization in aging oocytes and thereby can critically affect chromosome segregation and gene expression in the embryo after fertilization. LIMITATION, REASONS FOR CAUTION We used the mouse oocyte to study processes associated with postovulatory aging, which may not entirely reflect processes in aging human oocytes. However, increases in spindle abnormalities, unaligned chromosomes and H4K12 acetylated histones, as well as in mRNA abundance and polyadenylation have been observed also in aged human oocytes suggesting conserved processes in aging. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Postovulatory aging precociously induces alterations in expression and epigenetic modifications of chromatin by ATRX and in histone pattern in MII oocytes that normally occur after fertilization, possibly contributing to disturbances in the oocyte-to-embryo transition (OET) and the zygotic gene activation (ZGA). These observations in mouse oocytes are also relevant to explain disturbances and reduced developmental potential of aged human oocytes and caution to prevent oocyte aging in vivo and in vitro. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS The study has been supported by the German Research Foundation (DFG) (EI 199/7-1 | GR 1138/12-1 | HO 949/21-1 and FOR 1041). There is no competing interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Trapphoff
- Institute of Gene Technology/Microbiology, University of Bielefeld, Bielefeld, Germany
| | - M Heiligentag
- Institute of Gene Technology/Microbiology, University of Bielefeld, Bielefeld, Germany
| | - D Dankert
- Institute of Anatomy, University Hospital, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - H Demond
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Hospital, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - D Deutsch
- Laboratory for Functional Genome Analysis, Gene Center, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - T Fröhlich
- Laboratory for Functional Genome Analysis, Gene Center, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - G J Arnold
- Laboratory for Functional Genome Analysis, Gene Center, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - R Grümmer
- Institute of Anatomy, University Hospital, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - B Horsthemke
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Hospital, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - U Eichenlaub-Ritter
- Institute of Gene Technology/Microbiology, University of Bielefeld, Bielefeld, Germany
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Oocyte maturation and expression pattern of follicular genes during in-vitro culture of vitrified mouse pre-antral follicles. Gene Expr Patterns 2016; 20:63-70. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gep.2015.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2015] [Revised: 12/01/2015] [Accepted: 12/11/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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Ghosh J, Mainigi M, Coutifaris C, Sapienza C. Outlier DNA methylation levels as an indicator of environmental exposure and risk of undesirable birth outcome. Hum Mol Genet 2015; 25:123-9. [PMID: 26566672 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddv458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2015] [Accepted: 11/04/2015] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
We have identified a novel molecular phenotype that defines a subgroup of newborns who have highly disrupted epigenomes. We profiled DNA methylation in cord blood of 114 children selected from the lowest and highest quintiles of the birth weight distribution (irrespective of their mode of conception) at 96 CpG sites in genes we have found previously to be related to birth weight or growth and metabolism. We identified those individuals in each group who differed from the mean of the distribution by the greatest magnitude at each site and for the largest number of sites. Such 'outlier' individuals differ substantially from the rest of the group in having highly disrupted methylation levels at many CpG sites. We find that children from the lowest quintile of the birth weight distribution have a significantly greater number of disrupted CpGs than children from the highest quintile of the birth weight distribution. Among children from the lowest quintile of the birth weight distribution, 'outlier' individuals are significantly more common among children conceived in vitro than children conceived in vivo. These observations are novel and potentially important because they associate a molecular phenotype (multiple and large DNA methylation differences) in normal somatic tissues (cord blood) with both a prenatal exposure (conception in vitro) and a clinically important outcome (low birth weight). These observations suggest that some individuals are more susceptible to environmentally mediated epigenetic alterations than others.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jayashri Ghosh
- Fels Institute for Cancer Research and Molecular Biology
| | - Monica Mainigi
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19119, USA
| | - Christos Coutifaris
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19119, USA
| | - Carmen Sapienza
- Fels Institute for Cancer Research and Molecular Biology, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA and
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Lunardi FO, Chaves RN, de Lima LF, Araújo VR, Brito IR, Souza CEA, Donato MAM, Peixoto CA, Dinnyes A, Campello CC, de Figueiredo JR, Rodrigues APR. Vitrified sheep isolated secondary follicles are able to grow and form antrum after a short period of in vitro culture. Cell Tissue Res 2015; 362:241-51. [DOI: 10.1007/s00441-015-2181-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2014] [Accepted: 03/25/2015] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Bonakdar E, Edriss MA, Bakhtari A, Jafarpour F, Asgari V, Hosseini SM, Boroujeni NS, Hajian M, Rahmani HR, Nasr-Esfahani MH. A physiological, rather than a superovulated, post-implantation environment can attenuate the compromising effect of assisted reproductive techniques on gene expression in developing mice embryos. Mol Reprod Dev 2015; 82:191-206. [PMID: 25728573 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.22461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2014] [Accepted: 01/12/2015] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Assisted reproductive techniques (ARTs) may perturb the pre-/peri-conception microenvironments, which subsequently threaten the health of offspring. This study aimed to investigate the effects of superovulation, vitrification, in vitro culture, and embryo transfer on the expression of epigenetic modulators, imprinted genes, and pluripotency markers in expanded blastocysts and Day-9.5 (D9.5) concepti. Results revealed that 53.4% (8/15) and 86.7% (13/15) of genes in the fetus and placenta, respectively, have similar patterns of transcription in all D9.5 concepti, despite the perturbed mRNA expression observed at the blastocyst stage for each embryo-production technique. These observations indicate a counterbalancing of the abnormal expression pattern analyzed at the blastocyst stage during post-implantation development, particularly when the uterus of a naturally synchronized foster mother is employed. Superovulation resulted in the most abnormal expression patterns compared to other treatment groups, although these same blastocysts were able to develop in a synchronized uterus. Thus, superovulation creates a hormonal environment that negatively affected gene expression and impairs fetal growth more adversely during post-implantation development than other ART protocols, such as in vitro culture, vitrification, or embryo transfer-although each did contribute negatively to the implantation and development process. Together, these results may have implications for treating infertility in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Bonakdar
- Department of Animal Sciences, College of Agriculture, Isfahan University of Technology, Isfahan, Iran
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Ganji R, Nabiuni M, Faraji R. Development of mouse preantral follicle after in vitro culture in a medium containing melatonin. CELL JOURNAL 2015; 16:546-53. [PMID: 25685745 PMCID: PMC4297493 DOI: 10.22074/cellj.2015.499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2013] [Accepted: 12/01/2013] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Objective Improvements in cancer treatment have allowed more young women to survive. However, many cancer patients suffer from ovarian failure. Cryopreservation is one
of the solutions for fertility restoration in these patients. The cryopreservation of isolated
follicles is a more attractive approach in the long term. Many endocrine and paracrine
factors can stimulate the granulosa cells of preantral follicles to proliferate. Melatonin acts
as direct free radical scavenger and indirect antioxidant. In this study, we investigated the
direct effects of melatonin on follicle development and oocyte maturation by exposing in
vitro cultured mouse vitrified-warmed ovarian follicles to melatonin.
Materials and Methods In an experimental study, preantral follicles with diameter of
150-180 µm were isolated from prepubertal mouse ovaries. Follicles were vitrified and
thawed using cryolock method. They were then cultured individually for 7 days in droplets
supplemented with 0, 10 and 100 pM melatonin, while ovulation was induced using epidermal growth factor (EGF) and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). The survival rate of
follicles and nuclear maturation of ovulated oocytes were determined.
Results At the end of culture, significant increases in follicle survival (p<0.001) and in diameter (p<0.05) were noticed in 10 pM melatonin group compared to control group. In the 100
pM group, survival rate was not affected by melatonin. It was revealed that after induction of
ovulation, total number of metaphase II oocytes in treatment groups were not influenced by
melatonin (p>0.05).
Conclusion Culture of mouse vitrified-warmed preantral follicles in a medium supplemented with 10 pM melatonin increased the number of surviving follicles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roya Ganji
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Kharazmi University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Nabiuni
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Kharazmi University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Roya Faraji
- Reproductive Health Research Center, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Guilan, Iran
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The impact of assisted reproductive technologies on genomic imprinting and imprinting disorders. Curr Opin Obstet Gynecol 2015; 26:210-21. [PMID: 24752003 DOI: 10.1097/gco.0000000000000071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Genomic imprinting refers to preferential allele-specific gene expression. DNA methylation-based molecular mechanisms regulate establishment and maintenance of parental imprints during early embryo development and gametogenesis. Because of the coincident timing, a potential association between assisted reproductive technology (ART) procedures and imprinting defects has been investigated in various studies. In this review, we provide an overview of genomic imprinting and present a summary of the relevant clinical data. RECENT FINDINGS ART procedures affect DNA methylation pattern, parental imprinting status, and imprinted gene expression in the mouse embryo. In humans, several case series suggested an association between ART and imprinting disorders, with a three-fold to six-fold higher prevalence of ART use among children born with Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome compared to the general population. However, more recent studies failed to support these findings and could not demonstrate an association between imprinting disorders and ARTs, independent of subfertility. SUMMARY ART procedures may affect methylation status of imprinted regions in the DNA, leading to imprinting disorders. Although the low prevalence of imprinting disorders makes it challenging to perform conclusive clinical trials, further studies in large registries are required to determine the real impact of ARTs on their occurrence.
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Pliushch G, Schneider E, Schneider T, El Hajj N, Rösner S, Strowitzki T, Haaf T. In vitro maturation of oocytes is not associated with altered deoxyribonucleic acid methylation patterns in children from in vitro fertilization or intracytoplasmic sperm injection. Fertil Steril 2015; 103:720-7.e1. [PMID: 25572872 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2014.12.096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2014] [Revised: 12/08/2014] [Accepted: 12/08/2014] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To study the possible transmission, to the next generation, of epigenetic defects associated with in vitro maturation (IVM) of human oocytes. DESIGN Case-control study using epigenetic data. SETTING Two collaborating university departments. PATIENT(S) Eleven IVM newborns and 19 controls, conceived by conventional assisted reproduction. INTERVENTION(S) Chorionic villus and cord-blood sampling. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Using bisulfite pyrosequencing, we have measured average methylation levels of 6 imprinted (LIT1, MEG, MEST, NESPas, PEG3, and SNRPN), 5 tumor-suppressor (APC, ATM, BRCA1, RAD51C, and TP53), 2 pluripotency (NANOG and OCT4), and 2 metabolic (LEP and NR3C1) genes, as well as 2 repetitive elements (ALU and LINE1) in 2 tissues of IVM and control neonates. Using deep bisulfite sequencing, we have determined methylation patterns of many individual DNA molecules to detect rare RAD51C epimutations (allele methylation errors). RESULT(S) No statistically significant impact was found of IVM on chorionic villus and cord-blood DNA methylation at the studied developmentally important genes and interspersed repeats. The RAD51C epimutation rate was low (0.5% ± 0.1%) in all analyzed samples. CONCLUSION(S) IVM-induced epigenetic changes in offspring, if any, are relatively small in magnitude and/or infrequent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Galyna Pliushch
- Institute of Human Genetics, Julius Maximilians University, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Eberhard Schneider
- Institute of Human Genetics, Julius Maximilians University, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Tamara Schneider
- Institute of Human Genetics, Julius Maximilians University, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Nady El Hajj
- Institute of Human Genetics, Julius Maximilians University, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Sabine Rösner
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Women's Hospital, Ruprecht Karls University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Thomas Strowitzki
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Women's Hospital, Ruprecht Karls University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Thomas Haaf
- Institute of Human Genetics, Julius Maximilians University, Wuerzburg, Germany.
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Effect of oocyte vitrification on deoxyribonucleic acid methylation of H19, Peg3, and Snrpn differentially methylated regions in mouse blastocysts. Fertil Steril 2014; 102:1183-1190.e3. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2014.06.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2014] [Revised: 06/21/2014] [Accepted: 06/23/2014] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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Dankert D, Demond H, Trapphoff T, Heiligentag M, Rademacher K, Eichenlaub-Ritter U, Horsthemke B, Grümmer R. Pre- and postovulatory aging of murine oocytes affect the transcript level and poly(A) tail length of maternal effect genes. PLoS One 2014; 9:e108907. [PMID: 25271735 PMCID: PMC4182777 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0108907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2014] [Accepted: 08/27/2014] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Maternal effect genes code for oocyte proteins that are important for early embryogenesis. Transcription in oocytes does not take place from the onset of meiotic progression until zygotic genome activation. During this period, protein levels are regulated posttranscriptionally, for example by poly(A) tail length. Posttranscriptional regulation may be impaired in preovulatory and postovulatory aged oocytes, caused by delayed ovulation or delayed fertilization, respectively, and may lead to developmental defects. We investigated transcript levels and poly(A) tail length of ten maternal effect genes in in vivo- and in vitro- (follicle culture) grown oocytes after pre- and postovulatory aging. Quantitative RT-PCR was performed using random hexamer-primed cDNA to determine total transcript levels and oligo(dT)16-primed cDNA to analyze poly(A) tail length. Transcript levels of in vivo preovulatory-aged oocytes remained stable except for decreases in Brg1 and Tet3. Most genes investigated showed a tendency towards increased poly(A) content. Polyadenylation of in vitro preovulatory-aged oocytes was also increased, along with transcript level declines of Trim28, Nlrp2, Nlrp14 and Zar1. In contrast to preovulatory aging, postovulatory aging of in vivo- and in vitro-grown oocytes led to a shortening of poly(A) tails. Postovulatory aging of in vivo-grown oocytes resulted in deadenylation of Nlrp5 after 12 h, and deadenylation of 4 further genes (Tet3, Trim28, Dnmt1, Oct4) after 24 h. Similarly, transcripts of in vitro-grown oocytes were deadenylated after 12 h of postovulatory aging (Tet3, Trim28, Zfp57, Dnmt1, Nlrp5, Zar1). This impact of aging on poly(A) tail length may affect the timed translation of maternal effect gene transcripts and thereby contribute to developmental defects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debora Dankert
- Institute of Anatomy, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Hannah Demond
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Tom Trapphoff
- Institute of Gene Technology/Microbiology, University of Bielefeld, Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Martyna Heiligentag
- Institute of Gene Technology/Microbiology, University of Bielefeld, Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Katrin Rademacher
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | | | - Bernhard Horsthemke
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Ruth Grümmer
- Institute of Anatomy, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
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Klocke S, Bündgen N, Köster F, Eichenlaub-Ritter U, Griesinger G. Slow-freezing versus vitrification for human ovarian tissue cryopreservation. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2014; 291:419-26. [PMID: 25115279 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-014-3390-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2014] [Accepted: 07/21/2014] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Ovarian tissue can be cryopreserved prior to chemotherapy using either the slow-freezing or the vitrification method; however, the data on the equality of the procedures are still conflicting. In this study, a comparison of the cryo-damage of human ovarian tissue induced by either vitrification or slow-freezing was performed. METHODS Ovarian tissue from 23 pre-menopausal patients was cryopreserved with either slow-freezing or vitrification. After thawing/warming, the tissue was histologically and immunohistochemically analyzed and cultured in vitro. During tissue culture the estradiol release was assessed. RESULTS No significant difference was found in the proportion of high-quality follicles after thawing/warming in the slow-freezing and vitrification group, respectively (72.7 versus 66.7 %, p = 0.733). Estradiol secretion by the ovarian tissue was similar between groups during 18 days in vitro culture (area-under-the-curve 5,411 versus 13,102, p = 0.11). Addition of Sphingosine-1-Phosphate or Activin A to the culture medium did not alter estradiol release in both groups. The proportion of Activated Caspase-3 or 'Proliferating-Cell-Nuclear-Antigen' positive follicles at the end of the culture period was similar between slow-freezing and vitrification. CONCLUSION(S) Slow-freezing and vitrification result in similar morphological integrity after cryopreservation, a similar estradiol release in culture, and similar rates of follicular proliferation and apoptosis after culture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silke Klocke
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University Clinic of Schleswig-Holstein, Ratzeburger Allee 160, 23538, Lübeck, Germany,
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Cryopreservation of mammalian oocytes and embryos: current problems and future perspectives. SCIENCE CHINA-LIFE SCIENCES 2014; 57:903-14. [DOI: 10.1007/s11427-014-4689-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2013] [Accepted: 02/03/2014] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
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Klocke S, Tappehorn C, Griesinger G. Effects of supra-zero storage on human ovarian cortex prior to vitrification–warming. Reprod Biomed Online 2014; 29:251-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2014.03.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2013] [Revised: 03/26/2014] [Accepted: 03/26/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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Sudhakaran S, Uppangala S, Salian SR, Honguntikar SD, Nair R, Kalthur G, Adiga SK. Oocytes recovered after ovarian tissue slow freezing have impaired H2AX phosphorylation and functional competence. Reprod Fertil Dev 2014; 27:1242-8. [PMID: 25023890 DOI: 10.1071/rd14048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2014] [Accepted: 05/08/2014] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
It has been shown that oocytes isolated from ovarian tissue cryopreservation acquire DNA damage during the process of freeze-thawing. Using a mouse model, here we have investigated the functional competence and phosphorylation of H2AX (γ-H2AX) in germinal vesicle (GV) and parthenogenetically activated oocytes derived from conventional ovarian tissue slow freezing and vitrification techniques. The number of GV-stage oocytes with γ-H2AX foci was not significantly different between the slow-freezing and vitrification groups. Although the in vitro maturation (IVM) potential of GV oocytes in the slow-freezing group showed a significant delay (P<0.0001) in the process of germinal vesicle breakdown, no difference in the maturation rate was observed between the two protocols. Nevertheless, parthenogenetic activation of IVM oocytes using strontium chloride showed a significantly lower activation rate in the slow-freezing group compared with the vitrification (P<0.05) and control (P<0.01) groups. Importantly, H2AX phosphorylation was significantly perturbed in the slow-freezing group in comparison to the control (P<0.05). Therefore, we conclude that impaired sensing of DNA strand breaks and repair processes are associated with the reduced functional competence of the oocytes recovered from the slow-freezing group, which may have a significant impact on the reproductive outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sam Sudhakaran
- Division of Clinical Embryology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal University, Manipal-576 104, India
| | - Shubhashree Uppangala
- Division of Clinical Embryology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal University, Manipal-576 104, India
| | - Sujith Raj Salian
- Division of Clinical Embryology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal University, Manipal-576 104, India
| | - Sachin D Honguntikar
- Division of Clinical Embryology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal University, Manipal-576 104, India
| | - Ramya Nair
- Division of Clinical Embryology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal University, Manipal-576 104, India
| | - Guruprasad Kalthur
- Division of Clinical Embryology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal University, Manipal-576 104, India
| | - Satish Kumar Adiga
- Division of Clinical Embryology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal University, Manipal-576 104, India
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Kuhtz J, Romero S, De Vos M, Smitz J, Haaf T, Anckaert E. Human in vitro oocyte maturation is not associated with increased imprinting error rates at LIT1, SNRPN, PEG3 and GTL2. Hum Reprod 2014; 29:1995-2005. [PMID: 24963167 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deu155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Does in vitro maturation (IVM) of cumulus-enclosed germinal vesicle (GV) stage oocytes retrieved from small antral follicles in minimally stimulated cycles without an ovulatory hCG dose induce imprinting errors at LIT1, SNRPN, PEG3 and GTL2 in human oocytes? SUMMARY ANSWER There is no significant increase in imprinting mutations at LIT1, SNRPN, PEG3 and GTL2 after IVM of cumulus-enclosed GV oocytes from small antral follicles in minimally stimulated cycles without hCG priming. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Animal models have generally demonstrated correct methylation imprint establishment for in vitro grown and matured oocytes. For human IVM, well-designed studies allowing conclusions on imprint establishment are currently not available. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Immature oocyte-cumulus complexes from 2 to 9 mm follicles were retrieved in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) subjects in minimally stimulated cycles without hCG priming and matured in vitro. In vivo grown oocytes were retrieved after conventional ovarian stimulation for IVF/ICSI or after ovulation induction. Imprinting error rates at three maternally methylated (LIT1, SNRPN and PEG3) and one paternally methylated (GTL2) imprinted genes were compared in 71 in vitro and 38 in vivo matured oocytes. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS The limiting dilution bisulfite sequencing technique was applied, allowing increased sensitivity based on multiplex PCR for the imprinted genes and the inclusion of non-imprinted marker genes for cumulus cell DNA contamination. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE In vitro as well as in vivo matured oocytes showed only a few abnormal alleles, consistent with epimutations. The abnormalities were more frequent in immature than in mature oocytes for both groups, although no significant difference was reached. There was no statistically significant increase in imprinting errors in IVM oocytes. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION This single cell methylation analysis was restricted to a number of well-selected imprinted genes. Genome-wide methylation analysis of single human oocytes is currently not possible. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS IVM is a patient-friendly alternative to conventional ovarian stimulation in PCOS patients and is associated with reduced gonadotrophin costs and avoidance of OHSS. The results of this study show for the first time that optimized human IVM procedures have no significant effects on the establishment of maternal DNA methylation patterns at LIT1, SNRPN, PEG3 and GTL2. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS This study was supported by research funds from Agentschap voor Innovatie door Wetenschap en Technologie (IWT-TBM 110680), Wetenschappelijk Fonds Willy Gepts (WFWG 2011) and German Research Foundation (HA 1374/12-2). There are no competing interests.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Kuhtz
- Institute of Human Genetics, University of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg 97074, Germany
| | - S Romero
- Follicle Biology Laboratory and Center for Reproductive Medicine, UZ Brussel, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 101, Brussels 1090, Belgium
| | - M De Vos
- Follicle Biology Laboratory and Center for Reproductive Medicine, UZ Brussel, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 101, Brussels 1090, Belgium
| | - J Smitz
- Follicle Biology Laboratory and Center for Reproductive Medicine, UZ Brussel, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 101, Brussels 1090, Belgium
| | - T Haaf
- Institute of Human Genetics, University of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg 97074, Germany
| | - E Anckaert
- Follicle Biology Laboratory and Center for Reproductive Medicine, UZ Brussel, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 101, Brussels 1090, Belgium
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Mathias FJ, D'Souza F, Uppangala S, Salian SR, Kalthur G, Adiga SK. Ovarian tissue vitrification is more efficient than slow freezing in protecting oocyte and granulosa cell DNA integrity. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2014; 60:317-22. [PMID: 24896655 DOI: 10.3109/19396368.2014.923542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Ovarian tissue cryopreservation is the primary treatment modality currently available to women at risk of losing their ovarian function due to cytotoxic therapy. However, the impact of these techniques on the oocyte DNA integrity is not elucidated. Here we have investigated the effect of vitrification and conventional slow freezing of eight week old Swiss albino mouse ovarian tissues on the oocyte and granulosa cell DNA integrity using the comet assay. The intracellular levels of reactive oxygen species in oocytes was measured by 2',7'-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate fluorescence. The cryopreservation of ovarian tissue by the slow freezing technique resulted in a significantly higher level of DNA fragmentation in oocytes in comparison to vitrification (p < 0.05) whereas DNA fragmentation in granulosa cells was significantly higher than the control (p < 0.01). Further, reactive oxygen species were significantly elevated in oocytes derived from slow freezing when compared to vitrification (p < 0.05). Therefore, we conclude that the ovarian tissue slow freeze-thawing makes the oocyte and granulosa cells more vulnerable to DNA damage whereas vitrification appears to be a safer method than slow freezing for ovarian tissue cryopreservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Freya Jothsna Mathias
- Division of Clinical Embryology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal University , Manipal , India
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Hirao Y, Somfai T, Naruse K. In vitro growth and maturation of vitrified-warmed bovine oocytes collected from early antral follicles. J Reprod Dev 2014; 60:68-72. [PMID: 24126072 PMCID: PMC3963295 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2013-089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryopreservation of growing oocytes enriches the choice of timing and location of
artificial embryo production. However, completion of oocyte growth after warming is
crucial when using such cryopreserved oocytes. Our research objective was to develop a
sequential system that incorporates cryopreservation of growing bovine oocytes and their
subsequent in vitro growth. Oocyte-granulosa cell complexes with a mean
oocyte diameter of approximately 100 µm were vitrified-warmed and then cultured for 14
days. The percentage of surviving oocytes following cryopreservation and 14-day culture
was approximately 80%. More than half of the surviving oocytes were capable of maturing to
metaphase II after in vitro maturation; the rate was comparable to that
of control oocytes grown in vitro without cryopreservation. Taken
together, the combined protocols for vitrification-warming of growing oocytes and
subsequent in vitro growth can produce oocytes capable of undergoing
meiotic maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuji Hirao
- NARO Institute of Livestock and Grassland Science, Ibaraki 305-0901, Japan
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