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Longo M, Greco E, Listorti I, Varricchio MT, Litwicka K, Arrivi C, Mencacci C, Greco P. Telomerase activity, telomere length, and the euploidy rate of human embryos. Gynecol Endocrinol 2024; 40:2373742. [PMID: 38946430 DOI: 10.1080/09513590.2024.2373742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Telomeres maintain chromosome stability, while telomerase counteracts their progressive shortening. Telomere length varies between cell types, with leukocyte telomere length (LTL) decreasing with age. Reduced telomerase activity has been linked to reproductive issues in females, such as low pregnancy rates and premature ovarian failure, with recent studies indicating correlations between telomere length in granulosa cells and IVF outcomes. OBJECTIVES The study aims to explore the relationship between telomere length, telomerase activity, and euploid blastocyst rate in infertile women undergoing IVF/ICSI PGT-A cycles. METHODS This prospective study involves 108 patients undergoing controlled ovarian stimulation and PGT-A. Telomere length and telomerase activity were measured in peripheral mononuclear cells and granulosa cells (GC), respectively. RESULTS The telomere repeat copy number to single gene copy number ratio (T/S) results respectively 0.6 ± 0.8 in leukocytes and 0.7 ± 0.9 in GC. An inverse relationship was found between LTL and the patient's age (p < .01). A higher aneuploid rate was noticed in patients with short LTL, with no differences in ovarian reserve markers (p = .15), number of oocytes retrieved (p = .33), and number of MII (p = 0.42). No significant association was noticed between telomere length in GC and patients' age (p = 0.95), in ovarian reserve markers (p = 0.32), number of oocytes retrieved (p = .58), number of MII (p = .74) and aneuploidy rate (p = .65). CONCLUSION LTL shows a significant inverse correlation with patient age and higher aneuploidy rates. Telomere length in GCs does not correlate with patient age or reproductive outcomes, indicating differential telomere dynamics between leukocytes and granulosa cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Longo
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences of the Mother, Children and Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Ermanno Greco
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Casa di Cura Privata Villa Mafalda, Rome, Italy
- Department of Obstetrician and Gynecology, Saint Camillus International University of Health and Medical Sciences (Unicamillus), Rome, Italy
| | - Ilaria Listorti
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Casa di Cura Privata Villa Mafalda, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Katerina Litwicka
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Casa di Cura Privata Villa Mafalda, Rome, Italy
| | - Cristiana Arrivi
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Casa di Cura Privata Villa Mafalda, Rome, Italy
| | - Cecilia Mencacci
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Casa di Cura Privata Villa Mafalda, Rome, Italy
| | - Pierfrancesco Greco
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Casa di Cura Privata Villa Mafalda, Rome, Italy
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Lyu W, Li DF, Li SY, Hu H, Zhou JY, Wang L. Gut microbiota modulation: a narrative review on a novel strategy for prevention and alleviation of ovarian aging. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2024:1-13. [PMID: 38835159 DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2024.2361306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2024]
Abstract
The global rise in life expectancy corresponds with a delay in childbearing age among women. Ovaries, seen as the chronometers of female physiological aging, demonstrate features of sped up aging, evidenced by the steady decline in both the quality and quantity of ovarian follicles from birth. The multifaceted pathogenesis of ovarian aging has kindled intensive research interest from the biomedical and pharmaceutical sectors. Novel studies underscore the integral roles of gut microbiota in follicular development, lipid metabolism, and hormonal regulation, forging a nexus with ovarian aging. In this review, we outline the role of gut microbiota in ovarian function (follicular development, oocyte maturation, and ovulation), compile and present gut microbiota alterations associated with age-related ovarian aging. We also discuss potential strategies for alleviating ovarian aging from the perspective of gut microbiota, such as fecal microbiota transplantation and probiotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Lyu
- Clinical Medical Research Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Army Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - De-Feng Li
- Clinical Medical Research Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Army Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Shu-Ying Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Army Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Hua Hu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Army Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jian-Yun Zhou
- Clinical Medical Research Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Army Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ling Wang
- Clinical Medical Research Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Army Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
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3
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Fragkiadaki P, Kouvidi E, Angelaki A, Nikolopoulou D, Vakonaki E, Tsatsakis A. Evaluation of telomere length and telomerase activity on predicting in vitro fertilization treatment outcomes. J Assist Reprod Genet 2024; 41:1463-1473. [PMID: 38695985 PMCID: PMC11224194 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-024-03117-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024] Open
Abstract
The current article is a literature review aiming to provide an overview of the existing knowledge on the association between telomere length and telomerase activity and in vitro fertilization. Recently, telomeres have been used as an effective biomarker to determine biological age, which may differ from chronological age due to genetic, lifestyle, and environmental factors. Cellular senescence, along with other exogenous and mainly environmental factors, can enhance telomere wear, further shortening their ends and may also affect reproductive aging. IVF is a common fertility treatment caused by female reasons (age, ovulation disorders, damaged or blocked fallopian tubes, endometriosis), male reasons (low sperm quantity or quality), or unexplained infertility. A growing number of studies have proposed a relationship between telomere length and telomerase activity and IVF success and have suggested their use as candidate biomarkers for IVF outcome. Nevertheless, additional studies are necessary to be conducted, in order to clarify the possible implication of telomeres in IVF and to evaluate their possible role as valuable predictors of IVF result.
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Affiliation(s)
- Persefoni Fragkiadaki
- Laboratory of Toxicology and Forensic Sciences, Medical School, University of Crete, Voutes, 71003, Heraklion, Greece
- Lifeplus S.A., Science &Technological Park of Crete, C Building, Vassilika Vouton, 70013, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Elisavet Kouvidi
- Lifeplus S.A., Science &Technological Park of Crete, C Building, Vassilika Vouton, 70013, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
- Phenotypos Lab, Katehaki 40A, 115 25, Athens, Greece
| | - Anna Angelaki
- Laboratory of Toxicology and Forensic Sciences, Medical School, University of Crete, Voutes, 71003, Heraklion, Greece
| | - Dimitra Nikolopoulou
- Laboratory of Toxicology and Forensic Sciences, Medical School, University of Crete, Voutes, 71003, Heraklion, Greece
- Lifeplus S.A., Science &Technological Park of Crete, C Building, Vassilika Vouton, 70013, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Elena Vakonaki
- Laboratory of Toxicology and Forensic Sciences, Medical School, University of Crete, Voutes, 71003, Heraklion, Greece
- Lifeplus S.A., Science &Technological Park of Crete, C Building, Vassilika Vouton, 70013, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Aristidis Tsatsakis
- Laboratory of Toxicology and Forensic Sciences, Medical School, University of Crete, Voutes, 71003, Heraklion, Greece.
- Lifeplus S.A., Science &Technological Park of Crete, C Building, Vassilika Vouton, 70013, Heraklion, Crete, Greece.
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4
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Ju W, Zhao Y, Yu Y, Zhao S, Xiang S, Lian F. Mechanisms of mitochondrial dysfunction in ovarian aging and potential interventions. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1361289. [PMID: 38694941 PMCID: PMC11061492 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1361289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Mitochondria plays an essential role in regulating cellular metabolic homeostasis, proliferation/differentiation, and cell death. Mitochondrial dysfunction is implicated in many age-related pathologies. Evidence supports that the dysfunction of mitochondria and the decline of mitochondrial DNA copy number negatively affect ovarian aging. However, the mechanism of ovarian aging is still unclear. Treatment methods, including antioxidant applications, mitochondrial transplantation, emerging biomaterials, and advanced technologies, are being used to improve mitochondrial function and restore oocyte quality. This article reviews key evidence and research updates on mitochondrial damage in the pathogenesis of ovarian aging, emphasizing that mitochondrial damage may accelerate and lead to cellular senescence and ovarian aging, as well as exploring potential methods for using mitochondrial mechanisms to slow down aging and improve oocyte quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenhan Ju
- The First Clinical Medical College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Yuewen Zhao
- CReATe Fertility Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Yi Yu
- Department of Reproduction and Genetics, Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Shuai Zhao
- The First Clinical Medical College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Shan Xiang
- The First Clinical Medical College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Fang Lian
- Department of Reproduction and Genetics, Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
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Córdova-Oriz I, Polonio AM, Cuadrado-Torroglosa I, Chico-Sordo L, Medrano M, García-Velasco JA, Varela E. Chromosome ends and the theory of marginotomy: implications for reproduction. Biogerontology 2024; 25:227-248. [PMID: 37943366 DOI: 10.1007/s10522-023-10071-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023]
Abstract
Telomeres are the protective structures located at the ends of linear chromosomes. They were first described in the 1930s, but their biology remained unexplored until the early 70s, when Alexey M. Olovnikov, a theoretical biologist, suggested that telomeres cannot be fully copied during DNA replication. He proposed a theory that linked this phenomenon with the limit of cell proliferation capacity and the "duration of life" (theory of marginotomy), and suggested a potential of telomere lenghthening for the prevention of aging (anti-marginotomy). The impact of proliferative telomere shortening on life expectancy was later confirmed. In humans, telomere shortening is counteracted by telomerase, an enzyme that is undetectable in most adult somatic cells, but present in cancer cells and adult and embryonic stem and germ cells. Although telomere length dynamics are different in male and female gametes during gametogenesis, telomere lengths are reset at the blastocyst stage, setting the initial length of the species. The role of the telomere pathway in reproduction has been explored for years, mainly because of increased infertility resulting from delayed childbearing. Short telomere length in ovarian somatic cells is associated to decreased fertility and higher aneuploidy rates in embryos. Consequently, there is a growing interest in telomere lengthening strategies, aimed at improving fertility. It has also been observed that lifestyle factors can affect telomere length and improve fertility outcomes. In this review, we discuss the implications of telomere theory in fertility, especially in oocytes, spermatozoa, and embryos, as well as therapies to enhance reproductive success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Córdova-Oriz
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
| | - Alba M Polonio
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
| | - Isabel Cuadrado-Torroglosa
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
| | - Lucía Chico-Sordo
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
| | - Marta Medrano
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
| | - Juan A García-Velasco
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVIRMA Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Medical Specialties and Public Health, Edificio Departamental II, Rey Juan Carlos University, Av. de Atenas, s/n, 28922, Alcorcón, Madrid, Spain
| | - Elisa Varela
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain.
- Department of Medical Specialties and Public Health, Edificio Departamental II, Rey Juan Carlos University, Av. de Atenas, s/n, 28922, Alcorcón, Madrid, Spain.
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Ma JW, Xiong ZY, Cai XC, Li X, Ren SY, An SQ, Zhang ZY, Zhang YZ. Ningxin-Tongyu-Zishen formula alleviates the senescence of granulosa cells on D-galactose-induced premature ovarian insufficiency mice. Aging (Albany NY) 2024; 16:4541-4562. [PMID: 38428403 PMCID: PMC10968698 DOI: 10.18632/aging.205607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
Ningxin-Tongyu-Zishen formula (NTZF) is a clinical experience formula for the treatment of premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), and the potential mechanism is unknown. For in vivo experiments, POI mouse models (C57BL/6 mice), were constructed by subcutaneous injection of D-galactose (D-gal, 200 mg/kg). After treatment of NTZF (10.14, 20.27, 40.54 g/kg;) or estradiol valerate (0.15 mg/kg), ovarian function, oxidative stress (OS) and protein expression of Sirt1/p53 were evaluated. For in vitro experiments, H2O2 (200 μM) was used to treat KGN to construct ovarian granulosa cells (OGCs) cell senescence model. Pretreatment with NTZF (1.06 mg/mL) or p53 inhibitor (Pifithrin-α, 1 μM) was performed before induction of senescence, and further evaluated the cell senescence, OS, mRNA and protein expression of Sirt1/p53. In vivo, NTZF improved ovarian function, alleviated OS and Sirt1/p53 signaling abnormalities in POI mice. In vitro experiments showed that NTZF reduced the level of OS and alleviated the senescence of H2O2-induced KGN. In addition, NTZF activated the protein expression of Sirt1, inhibited the mRNA transcription and protein expression of p53 and p21. Alleviating OGCs senescence and protecting ovarian function through Sirt1/p53 is one of the potential mechanisms of NTZF in the treatment of POI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia-Wen Ma
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zeng-Yan Xiong
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xing-Chu Cai
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiang Li
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shi-Yan Ren
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shuai-Qi An
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zai-Yang Zhang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yi-Zhou Zhang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
- Zhejiang Famous Chinese Medicine Clinic, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
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7
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Ferreira AF, Soares M, Almeida-Santos T, Ramalho-Santos J, Sousa AP. Aging and oocyte competence: A molecular cell perspective. WIREs Mech Dis 2023; 15:e1613. [PMID: 37248206 DOI: 10.1002/wsbm.1613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Revised: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Follicular microenvironment is paramount in the acquisition of oocyte competence, which is dependent on two interconnected and interdependent processes: nuclear and cytoplasmic maturation. Extensive research conducted in human and model systems has provided evidence that those processes are disturbed with female aging. In fact, advanced maternal age (AMA) is associated with a lower chance of pregnancy and live birth, explained by the age-related decline in oocyte quality/competence. This decline has largely been attributed to mitochondria, essential for oocyte maturation, fertilization, and embryo development; with mitochondrial dysfunction leading to oxidative stress, responsible for nuclear and mitochondrial damage, suboptimal intracellular energy levels, calcium disturbance, and meiotic spindle alterations, that may result in oocyte aneuploidy. Nuclear-related mechanisms that justify increased oocyte aneuploidy include deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) damage, loss of chromosomal cohesion, spindle assembly checkpoint dysfunction, meiotic recombination errors, and telomere attrition. On the other hand, age-dependent cytoplasmic maturation failure is related to mitochondrial dysfunction, altered mitochondrial biogenesis, altered mitochondrial morphology, distribution, activity, and dynamics, dysmorphic smooth endoplasmic reticulum and calcium disturbance, and alterations in the cytoskeleton. Furthermore, reproductive somatic cells also experience the effects of aging, including mitochondrial dysfunction and DNA damage, compromising the crosstalk between granulosa/cumulus cells and oocytes, also affected by a loss of gap junctions. Old oocytes seem therefore to mature in an altered microenvironment, with changes in metabolites, ribonucleic acid (RNA), proteins, and lipids. Overall, understanding the mechanisms implicated in the loss of oocyte quality will allow the establishment of emerging biomarkers and potential therapeutic anti-aging strategies. This article is categorized under: Reproductive System Diseases > Molecular and Cellular Physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Filipa Ferreira
- Reproductive Medicine Unit, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- Faculty of Medicine, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Maria Soares
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- PhD Programme in Experimental Biology and Biomedicine (PDBEB), Institute for Interdisciplinary Research (IIIUC), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Teresa Almeida-Santos
- Reproductive Medicine Unit, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- Faculty of Medicine, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - João Ramalho-Santos
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- Department of Life Sciences, Calçada Martim de Freitas, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ana Paula Sousa
- Reproductive Medicine Unit, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
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Lopez J, Hohensee G, Liang J, Sela M, Johnson J, Kallen AN. The Aging Ovary and the Tales Learned Since Fetal Development. Sex Dev 2023; 17:156-168. [PMID: 37598664 PMCID: PMC10841896 DOI: 10.1159/000532072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND While the term "aging" implies a process typically associated with later life, the consequences of ovarian aging are evident by the time a woman reaches her forties, and sometimes earlier. This is due to a gradual decline in the quantity and quality of oocytes which occurs over a woman's reproductive lifespan. Indeed, the reproductive potential of the ovary is established even before birth, as the proper formation and assembly of the ovarian germ cell population during fetal life determines the lifetime endowment of oocytes and follicles. In the ovary, sophisticated molecular processes have been identified that regulate the timing of ovarian aging and these are critical to ensuring follicular maintenance. SUMMARY The mechanisms thought to contribute to overall aging have been summarized under the term the "hallmarks of aging" and include such processes as DNA damage, mitochondrial dysfunction, telomere attrition, genomic instability, and stem cell exhaustion, among others. Similarly, in the ovary, molecular processes have been identified that regulate the timing of ovarian aging and these are critical to ensuring follicular maintenance. In this review, we outline critical processes involved in ovarian aging, highlight major achievements for treatment of ovarian aging, and discuss ongoing questions and areas of debate. KEY MESSAGES Ovarian aging is recognized as what may be a complex process in which age, genetics, environment, and many other factors contribute to the size and depletion of the follicle pool. The putative hallmarks of reproductive aging outlined herein include a diversity of plausible processes contributing to the depletion of the ovarian reserve. More research is needed to clarify if and to what extent these putative regulators do in fact govern follicle and oocyte behavior, and how these signals might be integrated in order to control the overall pattern of ovarian aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesus Lopez
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Gabe Hohensee
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Jing Liang
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Meirav Sela
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Joshua Johnson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Amanda N. Kallen
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
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Córdova-Oriz I, Kohls G, Iglesias C, Polonio AM, Chico-Sordo L, Toribio M, Meseguer M, Varela E, Pellicer A, García-Velasco JA. A Randomized Controlled Intervention Trial with Danazol to Improve Telomeric and Fertility Parameters in Women with Diminished Ovarian Reserve: A Pilot Study. WOMEN'S HEALTH REPORTS (NEW ROCHELLE, N.Y.) 2023; 4:305-318. [PMID: 37476605 PMCID: PMC10354732 DOI: 10.1089/whr.2023.0013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
Background Most women who are treated at in vitro fertilization (IVF) clinics have trouble conceiving due to ovarian failure (OF), which seems to be associated to short telomeres and reduced or absent telomerase activity in their granulosa cells. Indeed, telomere pathways are involved in organ dysfunction. However, sexual steroids can stimulate the expression of the telomerase gene and have been successfully used to prevent telomere attrition. Thus, a strategy to improve IVF outcomes in women with OF could be telomerase reactivation using sexual steroids. Methods We conducted a double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Patients with diminished ovarian reserve were randomized to Danazol or placebo for 3 months. We included patients with normal ovarian reserve in the study as untreated controls. Patients and controls underwent several ovarian stimulations (OSs). Telomere and IVF parameters were assessed. Results We found that the mean telomere length in blood and the percentage of short and long telomeres were similar throughout the 3 months of treatment with Danazol. Remarkably, while the number of cells with one telomeric repeat-containing RNA (TERRA) focus decreased (p = 0.04) after the first month of Danazol treatment, the number of cells with 2 to 4 TERRA foci increased (p = 0.02). Regarding fertility, no differences were found in the antral follicle count. Interestingly, in OS performed after the trial, all Danazol-treated patients had a better MII oocyte rate compared to OS performed before the pilot study.EudraCT number: 2018-004400-19. Conclusions Danazol treatment seemed to affect telomere maintenance, since both the number of TERRA foci and the ratio of MII oocytes changed. However, further research is needed to confirm these results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Córdova-Oriz
- The Health Research Institute La Fe (IIS La Fe), IVI Foundation, Valencia, Spain
| | | | | | - Alba M. Polonio
- The Health Research Institute La Fe (IIS La Fe), IVI Foundation, Valencia, Spain
| | - Lucía Chico-Sordo
- The Health Research Institute La Fe (IIS La Fe), IVI Foundation, Valencia, Spain
| | | | - Marcos Meseguer
- The Health Research Institute La Fe (IIS La Fe), IVI Foundation, Valencia, Spain
- Laboratory of In Vitro Fertilization, IVIRMA Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Elisa Varela
- The Health Research Institute La Fe (IIS La Fe), IVI Foundation, Valencia, Spain
- Department of Medical Specialties and Public Health, Rey Juan Carlos University, Madrid, Spain
| | - Antonio Pellicer
- The Health Research Institute La Fe (IIS La Fe), IVI Foundation, Valencia, Spain
- School of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
- IVIRMA Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Juan A. García-Velasco
- The Health Research Institute La Fe (IIS La Fe), IVI Foundation, Valencia, Spain
- IVIRMA Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Medical Specialties and Public Health, Rey Juan Carlos University, Madrid, Spain
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10
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Polonio AM, Medrano M, Chico-Sordo L, Córdova-Oriz I, Cozzolino M, Montans J, Herraiz S, Seli E, Pellicer A, García-Velasco JA, Varela E. Impaired telomere pathway and fertility in Senescence-Accelerated Mice Prone 8 females with reproductive senescence. Aging (Albany NY) 2023; 15:4600-4624. [PMID: 37338562 DOI: 10.18632/aging.204731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2023]
Abstract
Ovarian aging is the main cause of infertility and telomere attrition is common to both aging and fertility disorders. Senescence-Accelerated Mouse Prone 8 (SAMP8) model has shortened lifespan and premature infertility, reflecting signs of reproductive senescence described in middle-aged women. Thus, our objective was to study SAMP8 female fertility and the telomere pathway at the point of reproductive senescence. The lifespan of SAMP8 and control mice was monitored. Telomere length (TL) was measured by in situ hybridization in blood and ovary. Telomerase activity (TA) was analyzed by telomere-repeat amplification protocol, and telomerase expression, by real-time quantitative PCR in ovaries from 7-month-old SAMP8 and controls. Ovarian follicles at different stages of maturation were evaluated by immunohistochemistry. Reproductive outcomes were analyzed after ovarian stimulation. Unpaired t-test or Mann-Whitney test were used to calculate p-values, depending on the variable distribution. Long-rank test was used to compare survival curves and Fisher's exact test was used in contingency tables. Median lifespan of SAMP8 females was reduced compared to SAMP8 males (p = 0.0138) and control females (p < 0.0001). In blood, 7-month-old SAMP8 females presented lower mean TL compared to age-matched controls (p = 0.041). Accordingly, the accumulation of short telomeres was higher in 7-month-old SAMP8 females (p = 0.0202). Ovarian TA was lower in 7-month-old SAMP8 females compared to controls. Similarly, telomerase expression was lower in the ovaries of 7-month-old SAMP8 females (p = 0.04). Globally, mean TL in ovaries and granulosa cells (GCs) were similar. However, the percentage of long telomeres in ovaries (p = 0.004) and GCs (p = 0.004) from 7-month-old SAMP8 females was lower compared to controls. In early-antral and antral follicles, mean TL of SAMP8 GCs was lower than in age-matched controls (p = 0.0156 for early-antral and p = 0.0037 for antral follicles). Middle-aged SAMP8 showed similar numbers of follicles than controls, although recovered oocytes after ovarian stimulation were lower (p = 0.0068). Fertilization rate in oocytes from SAMP8 was not impaired, but SAMP8 mice produced significantly more morphologically abnormal embryos than controls (27.03% in SAMP8 vs. 1.22% in controls; p < 0.001). Our findings suggest telomere dysfunction in SAMP8 females, at the time of reproductive senescence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alba M Polonio
- IVI Foundation, The Health Research Institute La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
| | - Marta Medrano
- IVI Foundation, The Health Research Institute La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
| | - Lucía Chico-Sordo
- IVI Foundation, The Health Research Institute La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
| | - Isabel Córdova-Oriz
- IVI Foundation, The Health Research Institute La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
| | | | | | - Sonia Herraiz
- IVI Foundation, The Health Research Institute La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
| | - Emre Seli
- IVIRMA New Jersey, Basking Ridge, NJ 07920, USA
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Heaven, CT 06510, USA
| | - Antonio Pellicer
- IVIRMA Rome, Rome, Italy
- Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Juan A García-Velasco
- IVI Foundation, The Health Research Institute La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
- IVIRMA Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Rey Juan Carlos University, Madrid, Spain
| | - Elisa Varela
- IVI Foundation, The Health Research Institute La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Rey Juan Carlos University, Madrid, Spain
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11
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Wu Y, Zhou S, Zhao A, Mi Y, Zhang C. Protective effect of rutin on ferroptosis-induced oxidative stress in aging laying hens through Nrf2/HO-1 signaling. Cell Biol Int 2023; 47:598-611. [PMID: 36378583 DOI: 10.1002/cbin.11960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Oxidative stress is a major cause of ovarian aging and follicular atresia. There is growing evidence that showed potential roles of rutin in antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, antitumor, antibacterial and antioxidant, although it is yet unclear what the underlying mechanism is. Here, we looked into the potential effects of rutin on oxidative stress in the prehierarchical small white follicles (SWFs) from 580-day-old (D580) laying chickens. According to the findings, aging D580 layer ferroptosis was much higher than it was for laying hens during the peak period (280-day-old, D280). In both naturally aged and d-gal-induced chicken SWFs, rutin treatment concurrently boosted cell proliferation and prevented apoptosis. In addition, rutin inhibited the increased ferroptosis in aging hens. Meanwhile, rutin markedly suppressed the elevated ferroptosis and descending antioxidant capacity of D280-culture-SWFs from chicken elicited by d-gal. Rutin's activation of the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway hastened the SWFs' verbal battle with oxidative damage and reduced ferroptosis. Furthermore, activation of the ferroptosis signal increased the oxidative damage in SWFs. In conclusion, rutin alleviated oxidative stress that was induced by ferroptosis in aging chicken SWFs through Nrf2/HO-1 pathway. These findings point to a novel mechanism by which rutin protects SWFs from oxidative stress by suppressing ferroptosis, which is presumably a fresh approach to slowing ovarian aging in laying hens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yangyang Wu
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shuo Zhou
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - An Zhao
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yuling Mi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Caiqiao Zhang
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
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12
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Zhu Z, Xu W, Liu L. Ovarian aging: mechanisms and intervention strategies. MEDICAL REVIEW (BERLIN, GERMANY) 2022; 2:590-610. [PMID: 37724254 PMCID: PMC10471094 DOI: 10.1515/mr-2022-0031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 09/20/2023]
Abstract
Ovarian reserve is essential for fertility and influences healthy aging in women. Advanced maternal age correlates with the progressive loss of both the quantity and quality of oocytes. The molecular mechanisms and various contributing factors underlying ovarian aging have been uncovered. In this review, we highlight some of critical factors that impact oocyte quantity and quality during aging. Germ cell and follicle reserve at birth determines reproductive lifespan and timing the menopause in female mammals. Accelerated diminishing ovarian reserve leads to premature ovarian aging or insufficiency. Poor oocyte quality with increasing age could result from chromosomal cohesion deterioration and misaligned chromosomes, telomere shortening, DNA damage and associated genetic mutations, oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction and epigenetic alteration. We also discuss the intervention strategies to delay ovarian aging. Both the efficacy of senotherapies by antioxidants against reproductive aging and mitochondrial therapy are discussed. Functional oocytes and ovarioids could be rejuvenated from pluripotent stem cells or somatic cells. We propose directions for future interventions. As couples increasingly begin delaying parenthood in life worldwide, understanding the molecular mechanisms during female reproductive aging and potential intervention strategies could benefit women in making earlier choices about their reproductive health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengmao Zhu
- Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin, China
- Department of Genetics and Cell Biology, College of Life Science, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Wanxue Xu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Lin Liu
- Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin, China
- Department of Genetics and Cell Biology, College of Life Science, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Union Medical Center, Institute of Translational Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
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13
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Yan F, Zhao Q, Li Y, Zheng Z, Kong X, Shu C, Liu Y, Shi Y. The role of oxidative stress in ovarian aging: a review. J Ovarian Res 2022; 15:100. [PMID: 36050696 PMCID: PMC9434839 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-022-01032-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 08/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Ovarian aging refers to the process by which ovarian function declines until eventual failure. The pathogenesis of ovarian aging is complex and diverse; oxidative stress (OS) is considered to be a key factor. This review focuses on the fact that OS status accelerates the ovarian aging process by promoting apoptosis, inflammation, mitochondrial damage, telomere shortening and biomacromolecular damage. Current evidence suggests that aging, smoking, high-sugar diets, pressure, superovulation, chemotherapeutic agents and industrial pollutants can be factors that accelerate ovarian aging by exacerbating OS status. In addition, we review the role of nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), Sirtuin (Sirt), mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), protein kinase B (AKT), Forkhead box O (FoxO) and Klotho signaling pathways during the process of ovarian aging. We also explore the role of antioxidant therapies such as melatonin, vitamins, stem cell therapies, antioxidant monomers and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), and investigate the roles of these supplements with respect to the reduction of OS and the improvement of ovarian function. This review provides a rationale for antioxidant therapy to improve ovarian aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei Yan
- Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Qi Zhao
- Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Ying Li
- Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhibo Zheng
- Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Xinliang Kong
- Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Chang Shu
- Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yanfeng Liu
- Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People's Republic of China.
| | - Yun Shi
- Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People's Republic of China.
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14
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Yu TN, Cheng EH, Tsai HN, Lin PY, Chen CH, Huang CC, Lee TH, Lee MS. Assessment of Telomere Length and Mitochondrial DNA Copy Number in Granulosa Cells as Predictors of Aneuploidy Rate in Young Patients. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11071824. [PMID: 35407431 PMCID: PMC9000104 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11071824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2022] [Revised: 03/13/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: To identify the correlation among female age, cellular aging markers, and aneuploidy rate in in vitro fertilization (IVF) and the preimplantation genetic test for aneuploidy (PGT-A) cycles. Methods: This is a prospective cohort study recruiting 110 infertile women between August 2017 and July 2018. They were divided into young-age (<38 years, n = 60) and advanced-age (≥38 years, n = 50) groups. Peripheral leukocytes were assessed, and the granulosa cells were pooled during oocyte pickup. Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) copy number and telomere length (TL) were measured using real-time polymerase chain reaction. PGT-A was performed on the NGS platform. Results: mtDNA copy number and TL were positively correlated in both leukocytes (rho = 0.477, p < 0.001) and granulosa cells (rho = 0.361, p < 0.001), but the two parameters in leukocytes were not correlated with those in granulosa cells. In the young-age group, TL in the granulosa cells was the only factor correlated with the aneuploidy rate (rho = −0.283, p = 0.044), whereas in the advanced-age group, age was the main factor (rho = 0.358, p = 0.018). Conclusions: TL in the granulosa cells was negatively correlated with the aneuploidy rate in the young-age group, supporting the application of PGT-A in younger women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tzu-Ning Yu
- Institute of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung 40201, Taiwan;
- Division of Infertility, Lee Women’s Hospital, Taichung 40652, Taiwan; (E.-H.C.); (H.-N.T.); (P.-Y.L.); (C.-H.C.); (C.-C.H.)
| | - En-Hui Cheng
- Division of Infertility, Lee Women’s Hospital, Taichung 40652, Taiwan; (E.-H.C.); (H.-N.T.); (P.-Y.L.); (C.-H.C.); (C.-C.H.)
| | - Han-Ni Tsai
- Division of Infertility, Lee Women’s Hospital, Taichung 40652, Taiwan; (E.-H.C.); (H.-N.T.); (P.-Y.L.); (C.-H.C.); (C.-C.H.)
| | - Pin-Yao Lin
- Division of Infertility, Lee Women’s Hospital, Taichung 40652, Taiwan; (E.-H.C.); (H.-N.T.); (P.-Y.L.); (C.-H.C.); (C.-C.H.)
| | - Chien-Hong Chen
- Division of Infertility, Lee Women’s Hospital, Taichung 40652, Taiwan; (E.-H.C.); (H.-N.T.); (P.-Y.L.); (C.-H.C.); (C.-C.H.)
| | - Chun-Chia Huang
- Division of Infertility, Lee Women’s Hospital, Taichung 40652, Taiwan; (E.-H.C.); (H.-N.T.); (P.-Y.L.); (C.-H.C.); (C.-C.H.)
| | - Tsung-Hsien Lee
- Institute of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung 40201, Taiwan;
- Division of Infertility, Lee Women’s Hospital, Taichung 40652, Taiwan; (E.-H.C.); (H.-N.T.); (P.-Y.L.); (C.-H.C.); (C.-C.H.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung 40201, Taiwan
- Correspondence: (T.-H.L.); (M.-S.L.)
| | - Maw-Sheng Lee
- Institute of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung 40201, Taiwan;
- Division of Infertility, Lee Women’s Hospital, Taichung 40652, Taiwan; (E.-H.C.); (H.-N.T.); (P.-Y.L.); (C.-H.C.); (C.-C.H.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung 40201, Taiwan
- Correspondence: (T.-H.L.); (M.-S.L.)
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15
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Li Piani L, Reschini M, Somigliana E, Ferrari S, Busnelli A, Viganò P, Favero C, Albetti B, Hoxha M, Bollati V. Peripheral mitochondrial DNA, telomere length and DNA methylation as predictors of live birth in in vitro fertilization cycles. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0261591. [PMID: 35073322 PMCID: PMC8786209 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0261591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate whether telomere length (TL), mitochondrial-DNA (mt-DNA) or epigenetic age estimators based on DNA methylation (DNAm) pattern could be considered reliable predictors of in-vitro-fertilization (IVF) success in terms of live birth rate. DESIGN Prospective cohort study. SETTING Infertility Unit of the Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico. PATIENTS 181 women aged 37-39 years who underwent IVF at a single-centre between January 2017 and December 2018. INTERVENTIONS On the day of recruitment, blood samples were collected, and genomic DNA was isolated from white blood cells. TL, mt-DNA and DNAm assessment was performed using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). Biological age (DNAm age) was computed as the algorithm based on methylation pattern of five genes. Epigenetic age acceleration was estimated from the residuals of the linear model of epigenetic age regressed on chronological age. Long Interspersed Nuclear Elements (LINE)-1 methylation pattern was used as a surrogate for global DNA methylation. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES This study investigated whether peripheral TL, mt-DNA and DNAm could predict live birth in IVF cycles. RESULTS TL, mt-DNA and LINE-1 methylation were not associated with IVF success. Conversely, DNAm age resulted significantly lower in women who had a live birth compared to women who did not (36.1 ± 4.2 and 37.3 ± 3.3 years, respectively, p = 0.04). For DNAm age, odds ratio (OR) for live birth per year of age was 0.90 (95%CI: 0.82-0.99, p = 0.036) after adjusting for FSH and antral follicle count (AFC) and 0.90 (95%CI: 0.82-0.99, p = 0.028) after adjusting also for number of oocytes retrieved. A significant association also emerged for epigenetic age acceleration after adjustments (OR = 0.91, 95%CI: 0.83-1.00, p = 0.048). CONCLUSION DNAm age is associated with IVF success but the magnitude of this association is insufficient to claim a clinical use. However, our findings are promising and warrant further investigation. Assessment of biological age using different epigenetic clocks or focusing on different tissues may reveal new predictors of IVF success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Letizia Li Piani
- Dept of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
- Infertility Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Marco Reschini
- Infertility Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Edgardo Somigliana
- Dept of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
- Infertility Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Stefania Ferrari
- Infertility Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Andrea Busnelli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Milan, Italy
- Division of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Fertility Center, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Paola Viganò
- Infertility Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Chiara Favero
- Dept of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Benedetta Albetti
- Dept of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Mirjam Hoxha
- Dept of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Valentina Bollati
- Dept of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
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16
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Anifandis G, Samara M, Simopoulou M, Messini CI, Chatzimeletiou K, Thodou E, Daponte A, Georgiou I. Insights into the Role of Telomeres in Human Embryological Parameters. Opinions Regarding IVF. J Dev Biol 2021; 9:jdb9040049. [PMID: 34842724 PMCID: PMC8628962 DOI: 10.3390/jdb9040049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Revised: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Telomeres promote genome integrity by protecting chromosome ends from the activation of the DNA damage response and protecting chromosomes from the loss of coding sequences due to the end replication problem. Telomere length (TL) is progressively shortened as age progresses, thus resulting in cellular senescence. Therefore, TL is in strong adverse linear correlation with aging. Mounting evidence supports the notion that telomeres and male/female infertility are in a close relationship, posing the biology of telomeres as a hot topic in the era of human-assisted reproduction. Specifically, the length of sperm telomeres is gradually increasing as men get older, while the telomere length of the oocytes seems not to follow similar patterns with that of sperm. Nonetheless, the telomere length of the embryos during the cleavage stages seems to have a paternal origin, but the telomere length can be further extended by telomerase activity during the blastocyst stage. The latter has been proposed as a new molecular biomarker with strong predictive value regarding male infertility. As far as the role of telomeres in assisted reproduction, the data is limited but the length of telomeres in both gametes seems to be affected mainly by the cause of infertility rather than the assisted reproductive therapy (ART) procedure itself. The present review aims to shed more light into the role of telomeres in human embryological parameters, including gametes and embryos and also presents opinions regarding the association between telomeres and in vitro fertilization (IVF).
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Affiliation(s)
- George Anifandis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, 41222 Larisa, Greece; (C.I.M.); (A.D.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Maria Samara
- Department of Anatomical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, 41222 Larisa, Greece; (M.S.); (E.T.)
| | - Mara Simopoulou
- Laboratory of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece;
| | - Christina I. Messini
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, 41222 Larisa, Greece; (C.I.M.); (A.D.)
| | - Katerina Chatzimeletiou
- Unit for Human Reproduction, 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, Aristotelian University of Thessaloniki, 56403 Thessaloniki, Greece;
| | - Eleni Thodou
- Department of Anatomical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, 41222 Larisa, Greece; (M.S.); (E.T.)
| | - Alexandros Daponte
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, 41222 Larisa, Greece; (C.I.M.); (A.D.)
| | - Ioannis Georgiou
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece;
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Idiopathic early ovarian aging: is there a relation with premenopausal accelerated biological aging in young women with diminished response to ART? J Assist Reprod Genet 2021; 38:3027-3038. [PMID: 34599460 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-021-02326-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate whether young women with idiopathic early ovarian aging, as defined by producing fewer oocytes than expected for a given age over multiple in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycles, have changes in telomere length and epigenetic age indicating accelerated biological aging (i.e., increased risk of morbidity and mortality). METHODS A prospective cohort study was conducted at two Danish public fertility clinics. A total of 55 young women (≤ 37 years) with at least two IVF cycles with ≤ 5 harvested oocytes despite sufficient stimulation with follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) were included in the early ovarian aging group. As controls, 52 young women (≤ 37 years) with normal ovarian function, defined by at least eight harvested oocytes, were included. Relative telomere length (rTL) and epigenetic age acceleration (AgeAccel) were measured in white blood cells as markers of premenopausal accelerated biological aging. RESULTS rTL was comparable with a mean of 0.46 (± SD 0.12) in the early ovarian aging group and 0.47 (0.14) in the normal ovarian aging group. The AgeAccel of the early ovarian aging group was, insignificantly, 0.5 years older, but this difference disappeared when adjusting for chronological age. Sub-analysis using Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) as selection criterion for the two groups did not change the results. CONCLUSION We did not find any indications of accelerated aging in whole blood from young women with idiopathic early ovarian aging. Further investigations in a similar cohort of premenopausal women or other tissues are needed to fully elucidate the potential relationship between premenopausal accelerated biological aging and early ovarian aging.
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The Role of Noncoding RNA in the Pathophysiology and Treatment of Premature Ovarian Insufficiency. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22179336. [PMID: 34502244 PMCID: PMC8430788 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22179336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2021] [Revised: 08/22/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) is defined as a loss of ovarian function before the age of 40 years, with a prevalence rate estimated at approximately 1%. It causes infertility and is related to serious long-term health consequences, including reduced life expectancy, increased cardiovascular risk, decreased bone mineral density and neurological disorders. There is currently no effective therapy for POI that is widely available in clinical practice; therefore, the treatment of patients with POI is based on hormone replacement therapy. One of the recent advances in the understanding of the pathophysiology of POI has been the role of microRNAs (miRNAs) and other noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) in the disease. Moreover, intensive research on human folliculogenesis and reproductive biology has led to the development of novel promising therapeutic strategies with the use of exosomal miRNAs derived from mesenchymal stem cells to restore ovarian function in POI patients. This narrative review focuses on the new studies concerning the role of ncRNAs in the pathogenesis of POI, together with their potential as biomarkers of the disease and targets for therapy.
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Ovarian Telomerase and Female Fertility. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9070842. [PMID: 34356906 PMCID: PMC8301802 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9070842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2021] [Revised: 07/08/2021] [Accepted: 07/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Women's fertility is characterized both quantitatively and qualitatively mainly by the pool of ovarian follicles. Monthly, gonadotropins cause an intense multiplication of granulosa cells surrounding the oocyte. This step of follicular development requires a high proliferation ability for these cells. Telomere length plays a crucial role in the mitotic index of human cells. Hence, disrupting telomere homeostasis could directly affect women's fertility. Strongly expressed in ovaries, telomerase is the most effective factor to limit telomeric attrition and preserve ovarian reserve. Considering these facts, two situations of infertility could be correlated with the length of telomeres and ovarian telomerase activity: PolyCystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), which is associated with a high density of small antral follicles, and Premature Ovarian Failure (POF), which is associated with a premature decrease in ovarian reserve. Several authors have studied this topic, expecting to find long telomeres and strong telomerase activity in PCOS and short telomeres and low telomerase activity in POF patients. Although the results of these studies are contradictory, telomere length and the ovarian telomerase impact in women's fertility disorders appear obvious. In this context, our research perspectives aimed to explore the stimulation of ovarian telomerase to limit the decrease in the follicular pool while avoiding an increase in cancer risk.
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Li CJ, Lin LT, Tsai HW, Chern CU, Wen ZH, Wang PH, Tsui KH. The Molecular Regulation in the Pathophysiology in Ovarian Aging. Aging Dis 2021; 12:934-949. [PMID: 34094652 PMCID: PMC8139203 DOI: 10.14336/ad.2020.1113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2020] [Accepted: 11/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The female reproductive system is of great significance to women’s health. Aging of the female reproductive system occurs approximately 10 years prior to the natural age-associated functional decline of other organ systems. With an increase in life expectancy worldwide, reproductive aging has gradually become a key health issue among women. Therefore, an adequate understanding of the causes and molecular mechanisms of ovarian aging is essential towards the inhibition of age-related diseases and the promotion of health and longevity in women. In general, women begin to experience a decline in ovarian function around the age of 35 years, which is mainly manifested as a decrease in the number of ovarian follicles and the quality of oocytes. Studies have revealed the occurrence of mitochondrial dysfunction, reduced DNA repair, epigenetic changes, and metabolic alterations in the cells within the ovaries as age increases. In the present work, we reviewed the possible factors of aging-induced ovarian insufficiency based on its clinical diagnosis and performed an in-depth investigation of the relevant molecular mechanisms and potential targets to provide novel approaches for the effective improvement of ovarian function in older women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chia-Jung Li
- 1Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,2Institute of BioPharmaceutical sciences, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Li-Te Lin
- 1Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,2Institute of BioPharmaceutical sciences, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,3Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, National Yang-Ming University School of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hsiao-Wen Tsai
- 1Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,2Institute of BioPharmaceutical sciences, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Chyi-Uei Chern
- 1Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Zhi-Hong Wen
- 4Department of Marine Biotechnology and Resources, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Peng-Hui Wang
- 3Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, National Yang-Ming University School of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan.,5Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,6Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan.,7Female Cancer Foundation, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Kuan-Hao Tsui
- 1Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,2Institute of BioPharmaceutical sciences, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,3Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, National Yang-Ming University School of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan.,8Department of Pharmacy and Master Program, College of Pharmacy and Health Care, Tajen University, Pingtung County, Taiwan
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21
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LncRNA ZNF674-AS1 regulates granulosa cell glycolysis and proliferation by interacting with ALDOA. Cell Death Discov 2021; 7:107. [PMID: 33993190 PMCID: PMC8124069 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-021-00493-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Revised: 03/27/2021] [Accepted: 04/24/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Granulosa cell (GC) is a critical somatic component of ovarian follicles to support oocyte development, while the regulatory role of long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) in GCs is largely unknown. Here, we identified a down-regulated lncRNA ZNF674-AS1 in GCs from patients with biochemical premature ovarian insufficiency (bPOI), and its expression correlates with serum levels of clinical ovarian reserve indicators. Functional experiments showed that ZNF674-AS1 is induced by energy stress, and regulates the proliferation and glycolysis of GCs, which possibly leads to follicular dysfunction. Mechanistically, low-expressed ZNF674-AS1 reduced the enzymatic activity of aldolase A (ALDOA), concomitant with promoting the association between ALDOA and v-ATPase to activate the lysosome localized AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). These findings identified a new lncRNA–ALDOA complex through which ZNF674-AS1 exerts its functions, expanding the understanding of epigenetic regulation of GCs function and POI pathogenesis.
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22
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Yao G, Kong Y, Yang G, Kong D, Xu Y, He J, Xu Z, Bai Y, Fan H, He Q, Sun Y. Lnc-GULP1-2:1 affects granulosa cell proliferation by regulating COL3A1 expression and localization. J Ovarian Res 2021; 14:16. [PMID: 33472700 PMCID: PMC7816396 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-021-00769-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2020] [Accepted: 01/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Backgrounds Long non-coding RNA is a novel group of non-protein coding transcripts over 200 nt in length. Recent studies have found that they are widely involved in many pathological and physiological processes. In our previous study, we found that lnc-GULP1–2:1 was significantly down-regulated in the ovarian cortical tissue of patients with primary ovarian insufficiency and predicted that lnc-GULP1–2:1 has a regulatory effect on COL3A1. Results In this study, we found that lnc-GULP1–2:1 was mainly localized in the cytoplasm of luteinized granulosa cells. The expression of lnc-GULP1–2:1 was lower in patients with diminished ovarian reserve but substantially elevated in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome. Overexpression of lnc-GULP1–2:1 in KGN cells significantly inhibited cell proliferation, likely through cell cycle related genes CCND2 and p16. Moreover, lnc-GULP1–2:1 expression was positively correlated with the level of COL3A in luteinized granulosa cells from patients with different ovarian functions as well as in multiple cell lines. Overexpression of lnc-GULP1–2:1 in KGN cells promoted the expression of COL3A1 and its translocation into the nucleus. Consistently, silencing COL3A1 in KGN cells also significantly inhibited cell proliferation. Conclusions Lnc-GULP1–2:1 affects the proliferation of granulosa cells by regulating the expression and localization of COL3A1 protein, and may participate in the regulation of ovarian follicle development. This study will provide new insight into molecular mechanisms underlying ovarian follicular development, which will help generate novel diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for diseases related to ovarian follicular development disorders. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13048-021-00769-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guidong Yao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China. .,Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China.
| | - Yue Kong
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Guang Yang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Deqi Kong
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Yijiang Xu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Jiahuan He
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Ziwen Xu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Yucheng Bai
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Huiying Fan
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Qina He
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Yingpu Sun
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China. .,Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China.
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23
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Yang L, Chen Y, Liu Y, Xing Y, Miao C, Zhao Y, Chang X, Zhang Q. The Role of Oxidative Stress and Natural Antioxidants in Ovarian Aging. Front Pharmacol 2021; 11:617843. [PMID: 33569007 PMCID: PMC7869110 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.617843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The ovarian system comprises vital organs in females and is of great significance for the maintenance of reproductive potential and endocrine stability. Although complex pathogenesis undoubtedly contributes to ovarian aging, increasing attention is being paid to the extensive influence of oxidative stress. However, the role of oxidative stress in ovarian aging is yet to be fully elucidated. Exploring oxidative stress-related processes might be a promising strategy against ovarian aging. In this review, compelling evidence is shown that oxidative stress plays a role in the etiology of ovarian aging and promotes the development of other ovarian aging-related etiologies, including telomere shortening, mitochondrial dysfunction, apoptosis, and inflammation. In addition, some natural antioxidants such as quercetin, resveratrol, and curcumin have a protective role in the ovaries through multiple mechanisms. These findings raise the prospect of oxidative stress modulator-natural antioxidants as therapeutic interventions for delaying ovarian aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liuqing Yang
- Guangxing Hospital Affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yun Chen
- Guangxing Hospital Affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yan Liu
- The 2nd Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yu Xing
- Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
- Dongfang Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Chenyun Miao
- Guangxing Hospital Affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Ying Zhao
- Guangxing Hospital Affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiangwei Chang
- College of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Qin Zhang
- Guangxing Hospital Affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
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24
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Sun X, Zhang Y, Hu Y, An J, Li L, Wang Y, Zhang X. Decreased expression of m 6A demethylase FTO in ovarian aging. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2020; 303:1363-1369. [PMID: 33221958 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-020-05895-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE N6-methyladenosine (m6A) and demethylase fat mass and obesity-associated protein (FTO) were reported to be associated with oocyte development and maturation. But the relationship between FTO and ovarian aging was still unclear. This study was aimed at investigating the FTO expression level and the m6A content during ovarian aging. METHODS The expression level of FTO and the content of m6A RNA methylation in human follicular fluid (FF), granulosa cells (GCs) and mouse ovary from different age groups were studied by ELISA, WB, qRT-PCR, IHC and m6A Colorimetric. RESULTS Human FF ELISA quantified that the level of FTO protein decreased with age (P = 0.025). QRT-PCR results showed that the relative expression of FTO in human GCs was lower in the elderly group than in the young group (P = 0.012). FTO mRNA and protein expression levels were lower in the ovary of 32-week-old mice than in 3- and 8-week-old mice (P < 0.05). Immunohistochemistry showed FTO was relatively decreased in 32-week-old mice (P < 0.05). The m6A content in total RNA from old human GCs and ovary from 32-week-old mice was significantly higher compared with the younger ones. CONCLUSIONS In human FF, GCs and mouse ovary, the expression of FTO decreased while the content of m6A increased with aging. However, the inner mechanism still needs further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyan Sun
- The First School of Clinical Medicine of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China.,The Reproductive Medicine Special Hospital of the First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, China
| | - Yigan Zhang
- The First School of Clinical Medicine of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Yuping Hu
- The First School of Clinical Medicine of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China.,The Reproductive Medicine Special Hospital of the First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, China
| | - Junxia An
- The First School of Clinical Medicine of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China.,The Reproductive Medicine Special Hospital of the First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, China
| | - Lifei Li
- The First School of Clinical Medicine of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China.,The Reproductive Medicine Special Hospital of the First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, China
| | - Yiqing Wang
- The Reproductive Medicine Special Hospital of the First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, China.,Gansu Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Embryology, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Xuehong Zhang
- The Reproductive Medicine Special Hospital of the First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, China. .,Gansu Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Embryology, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China.
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25
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lncRNA GCAT1 is involved in premature ovarian insufficiency by regulating p27 translation in GCs via competitive binding to PTBP1. MOLECULAR THERAPY-NUCLEIC ACIDS 2020; 23:132-141. [PMID: 33335798 PMCID: PMC7733005 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2020.10.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 10/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Dysfunction of granulosa cells (GCs) leading to follicle atresia has been extensively studied as a major cause of premature ovarian insufficiency (POI), but the regulatory role of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in this process is still poorly understood. Here, we show that the lncRNA LINC02690 or GCAT1 (granulosa cell-associated transcript 1) is downregulated in GCs from patients with biochemical POI (bPOI), and we show a significant correlation between downregulated GCAT1 and serum levels of follicle-stimulating hormone and anti-Müllerian hormone. Downregulation of GCAT1 inhibited G1/S cell cycle progression and thus inhibited the proliferation of GCs. Mechanistically, we show that GCAT1 competes with cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor 1B (CDKN1B) mRNA for polypyrimidine tract-binding protein 1 (PTBP1) binding, and thus decreased GCAT1 might promote PTBP1 binding to CDKN1B mRNA and thereby initiate CDKN1B protein (p27) translation. Together, our results suggest that downregulation of GCAT1 under conditions of bPOI inhibits the proliferation of GCs through PTBP1-dependent p27 regulation, thus suggesting a novel form of lncRNA-mediated epigenetic regulation of GC function that contributes to the pathogenesis of POI.
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26
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Protsenko E, Rehkopf D, Prather AA, Epel E, Lin J. Are long telomeres better than short? Relative contributions of genetically predicted telomere length to neoplastic and non-neoplastic disease risk and population health burden. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0240185. [PMID: 33031470 PMCID: PMC7544094 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0240185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 09/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Mendelian Randomization (MR) studies exploiting single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) predictive of leukocyte telomere length (LTL) have suggested that shorter genetically determined telomere length (gTL) is associated with increased risks of degenerative diseases, including cardiovascular and Alzheimer’s diseases, while longer gTL is associated with increased cancer risks. These varying directions of disease risk have long begged the question: when it comes to telomeres, is it better to be long or short? We propose to operationalize and answer this question by considering the relative impact of long gTL vs. short gTL on disease incidence and burden in a population. Methods and findings We used odds ratios (OR) of disease associated with gTL from a recently published MR meta-analysis to approximate the relative contributions of gTL to the incidence and burden of neoplastic and non-neoplastic disease in a European population. We obtained incidence data of the 9 cancers associated with long gTL and 4 non-neoplastic diseases associated with short gTL from the Institute of Health Metrics (IHME). Incidence rates of individual cancers from SEER, a database of United States cancer records, were used to weight the ORs in order to align with the available IHME data. These data were used to estimate the excess incidences due to long vs. short gTL, expressed as per 100,000 persons per standard deviation (SD) change in gTL. To estimate the population disease burden, we used the Disability Adjusted Life Years (DALY) metric from the IHME, a measure of overall disease burden that accounts for both mortality and morbidity, and similarly calculated the excess DALY associated with long vs. short gTL. Results Our analysis shows that, despite the markedly larger ORs of neoplastic disease, the large incidence of degenerative diseases causes the excess incidence attributable to gTL to balance that of neoplastic diseases. Long gTL is associated with an excess incidence of 94.04 cases/100,000 persons/SD (45.49–168.84, 95%CI) from the 9 cancer, while short gTL is associated with an excess incidence of 121.49 cases/100,000 persons/SD (48.40–228.58, 95%CI) from the 4 non-neoplastic diseases. When considering disease burden using the DALY metric, long gTL is associated with an excess 1255.25 DALYs/100,000 persons/SD (662.71–2163.83, 95%CI) due to the 9 cancers, while short gTL is associated with an excess 1007.75 DALYs/100,000 persons/SD (411.63–1847.34, 95%CI) due to 4 non-neoplastic diseases. Conclusions Our results show that genetically determined long and short telomere length are associated with disease risk and burden of approximately equal magnitude. These results provide quantitative estimates of the relative impact of genetically-predicted short vs. long TL in a human population, and provide evidence in support of the cancer-aging paradox, wherein human telomere length is balanced by opposing evolutionary forces acting to minimize both neoplastic and non-neoplastic diseases. Importantly, our results indicate that odds ratios alone can be misleading in different clinical scenarios, and disease risk should be assessed from both an individual and population level in order to draw appropriate conclusions about the risk factor’s role in human health.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - David Rehkopf
- Stanford Department of Primary Care and Population Health, Stanford, CA, United States of America
| | - Aric A. Prather
- UCSF Department of Psychiatry, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
| | - Elissa Epel
- UCSF Department of Psychiatry, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
| | - Jue Lin
- UCSF Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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27
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Impact of Ovarian Aging in Reproduction: From Telomeres and Mice Models to Ovarian Rejuvenation. THE YALE JOURNAL OF BIOLOGY AND MEDICINE 2020; 93:561-569. [PMID: 33005120 PMCID: PMC7513441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
The trend in our society to delay procreation increases the difficulty to conceive spontaneously. Thus, there is a growing need to use assisted reproduction technologies (ART) to form a family. With advanced maternal age, ovaries not only produce a lower number of oocytes after ovarian stimulation but also a lower quality-mainly aneuploidies-requiring further complex analysis to avoid complications during implantation and pregnancy. Although there are different options to have a child at advanced maternal age (like donor eggs), this is not the preferred choice for most patients. Unless women had cryopreserved their eggs at a younger age, reproductive medicine should try to optimize their opportunities to become pregnant with their own oocytes, when chances of success are reasonable. Aging has many causes, but telomere attrition is ultimately one of the main pathways involved in this process. Several reports link telomere biology and reproduction, but the molecular reasons for the rapid loss of ovarian function at middle age are still elusive. This review will focus on the knowledge acquired during the last years about ovarian aging and disease, both in mouse models of reproductive senescence and in humans with ovarian failure, and the implication of telomeres in this process. In addition, the review will discuss recent results on ovarian rejuvenation, achieved with stem cell therapies that are currently under study, or ovarian reactivation by tissue fragmentation and the attempts to generate oocytes in vitro.
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28
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Fattet AJ, Toupance S, Thornton SN, Monnin N, Guéant JL, Benetos A, Koscinski I. Telomere length in granulosa cells and leukocytes: a potential marker of female fertility? A systematic review of the literature. J Ovarian Res 2020; 13:96. [PMID: 32825843 PMCID: PMC7442985 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-020-00702-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2020] [Accepted: 08/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
In the context of a continuously increased delay of motherhood and of an increase of the incidence of premature ovarian failure, it is of the greatest interest to dispose of a predictive marker of the duration of the fertility window. Unfortunately, current available markers of women’s fertility (hormonal rates or echography count of small follicles) have a poor predictive value of premature ovarian failure. In the last ten years, some studies have suggested that telomere length may be correlated with premature ovarian failure, but the results of these studies are contradictory. In accordance with guidelines from Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA), this systematic review of the literature selected studies evaluating telomere length or telomerase activity in granulosa cells and/or in leukocytes as a premature ovarian failure marker. Five publications (252 premature ovarian failure patients) were included in this review of experimental evidence. Two of them studied telomere length and/or telomerase activity in granulosa cells and 4 in leukocytes in women with premature ovarian failure. For each study, authors determined if there was a positive or a negative correlation between telomeric parameters and premature ovarian failure. 3 studies (178 premature ovarian failure patients) found shorter telomere length in granulosa cells and/or leukocytes and/or lower telomerase activity in premature ovarian failure patients. 2 studies (74 premature ovarian failure patients) presented contradictory results about the correlation of leucocyte telomere length with premature ovarian failure. Shorter telomeres and diminished telomerase activity in granulosa cells appear to be associated with ovarian insufficiency. However, the number of studies and of subjects within are low and the methodology questionable. The confirmation of these results is essential with more subjects, better defined populations and more adapted methodology, in order to consider telomere length in granulosa cells and/or in leucocytes as an early and reliable marker for the decline of ovarian function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne-Julie Fattet
- Laboratory of Biology of Reproduction-CECOS Lorraine, University Hospital of Nancy, 10 rue du Dr Heydenreich, 54000, Nancy, France
| | - Simon Toupance
- Université de Lorraine, Inserm, DCAC, F-54000, Nancy, France
| | | | - Nicolas Monnin
- Centre AMP Majorelle-Laboratory ATOUTBIO, 95, rue Ambroise Paré, 54000, Nancy, France
| | | | | | - Isabelle Koscinski
- Laboratory of Biology of Reproduction-CECOS Lorraine, University Hospital of Nancy, 10 rue du Dr Heydenreich, 54000, Nancy, France. .,Université de Lorraine, Inserm, NGERE, F-54000, Nancy, France.
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29
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Liu P, Zhang X, Hu J, Cui L, Zhao S, Jiao X, Qin Y. Dysregulated cytokine profile associated with biochemical premature ovarian insufficiency. Am J Reprod Immunol 2020; 84:e13292. [PMID: 32564444 PMCID: PMC7539985 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2020] [Revised: 06/04/2020] [Accepted: 06/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Problem Premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) imposes great challenge on female reproduction. Whether immune disturbance in ovarian environment was implicated in POI remains unclear. We aimed to characterize the cytokine profile in follicular fluid (FF) and paired serum in patients with biochemical POI (bPOI). Method of study Multiplex immunoassay containing 45 cytokines was performed for individual FF and paired serum samples from 35 bPOI patients and 37 matched controls. Cytokine profiles were compared between the two groups and cytokines correlated to ovarian reserve, and the rates of day‐3 good‐quality embryos were further analyzed. Results In FF, significantly elevated level of chemokines MIP‐1α (P = .043), CXCL8 (P = .024), IP‐10 (P = .041), and eotaxin‐1 (P = .015) as well as growth factors VEGF‐D (P = .047), BDNF (P = .043), LIF (P = .002), and bFGF (P = .046) was found in bPOI patients compared to controls. Yet RANTES manifested an opposite trend with reduced levels among bPOI patients (P = .006). All these chemokines and growth factors in FF were significantly correlated with ovarian reserve (P < .05). In paired serum, cytokine signature was not likely accordant with that in FF between two groups, except for increased IP‐10 (P = .032) in bPOI patients and its significant correlation to FSH and AFC (P < .05). Among all differentially expressed cytokines, RANTES in FF was correlated with the rate of day‐3 good‐quality embryos (P = .035). Conclusion Altered cytokine profile characterized by increased chemokines and growth factors was associated with early stage of POI, which may fuel the progression of the disease or even play a crucial role in the development of ovarian insufficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peihao Liu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,Shandong Provincial Clinical Medicine Research Center for Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Xiruo Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,Shandong Provincial Clinical Medicine Research Center for Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Jingmei Hu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,Shandong Provincial Clinical Medicine Research Center for Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Linlin Cui
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,Shandong Provincial Clinical Medicine Research Center for Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Shidou Zhao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,Shandong Provincial Clinical Medicine Research Center for Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Xue Jiao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,Shandong Provincial Clinical Medicine Research Center for Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Yingying Qin
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,Shandong Provincial Clinical Medicine Research Center for Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan, China
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30
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Hong SH, Hong YS, Jeong K, Chung H, Lee H, Sung YA. Relationship between the characteristic traits of polycystic ovary syndrome and susceptibility genes. Sci Rep 2020; 10:10479. [PMID: 32591571 PMCID: PMC7320020 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-66633-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2019] [Accepted: 04/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a highly complex disorder influenced by genetic and environmental factors. Previous genome-wide association studies (GWAS) on Han Chinese, Korean, and European populations identified multiple PCOS-susceptible loci; however, only a few studies reported the association of susceptibility genes with disease phenotypic traits. This cross-sectional study aimed to investigate the association between PCOS susceptibility genes from GWAS and disease-related clinical features. A total of 1,810 reproductive-aged women were recruited, including 927 control women and 883 women with PCOS, diagnosed based on the European Society for Human Reproduction and Embryology criteria. Genomic DNA was extracted and genotyped, and a Bonferroni test was performed to determine the association between 12 independent SNPs and the clinical features of PCOS. In women with PCOS, rs11031006, nearest to FSHB, was significantly associated with free testosterone (P = 1.94 × 10-3) and luteinizing hormone (P = 1.96 × 10-3) levels. The menstruation number per year, ovarian follicular number, ovarian volume, and insulin sensitivity index were not associated with any SNP. In the control group, no SNPs were associated with any PCOS traits. Collectively, our results suggest that FSHB may play an important role in the development and progression of PCOS.
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Affiliation(s)
- So-Hyeon Hong
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Young Sun Hong
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Ewha Womans University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Kyungah Jeong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ewha Womans University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Hyewon Chung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ewha Womans University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Hyejin Lee
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Ewha Womans University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea.
| | - Yeon-Ah Sung
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Ewha Womans University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea.
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31
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Polonio AM, García-Velasco JA, Herraiz S. Stem Cell Paracrine Signaling for Treatment of Premature Ovarian Insufficiency. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2020; 11:626322. [PMID: 33716956 PMCID: PMC7943922 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2020.626322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2020] [Accepted: 12/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Premature ovarian insufficiency is a common disorder affecting young women and represents the worst-case ovarian scenario due to the substantial impact on the reproductive lifespan of these patients. Due to the complexity of this condition, which is not fully understood, non-effective treatments have yet been established for these patients. Different experimental approaches are being explored and strategies based on stem cells deserve special attention. The regenerative and immunomodulatory properties of stem cells have been successfully tested in different tissues, including ovary. Numerous works point out to the efficacy of stem cells in POI treatment, and a wide range of clinical trials have been developed in order to prove safety and effectiveness of stem cells therapy-in diminished ovarian reserve and POI women. The main purpose of this review is to describe the state of the art of the treatment of POI involving stem cells, especially those that use mobilization of stem cells or paracrine signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alba M. Polonio
- IVI Foundation, Insituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain
- *Correspondence: Alba M. Polonio,
| | - Juan A. García-Velasco
- IVI Foundation, Insituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain
- IVI RMA, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Rey Juan Carlos University, Madrid, Spain
| | - Sonia Herraiz
- IVI Foundation, Insituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain
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32
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DNA methylation-based age prediction and telomere length in white blood cells and cumulus cells of infertile women with normal or poor response to ovarian stimulation. Aging (Albany NY) 2019; 10:3761-3773. [PMID: 30530921 PMCID: PMC6326671 DOI: 10.18632/aging.101670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2018] [Accepted: 11/15/2018] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
An algorithm assessing the methylation levels of 353 informative CpG sites in the human genome permits accurate prediction of the chronologic age of a subject. Interestingly, when there is discrepancy between the predicted age and chronologic age (age acceleration or "AgeAccel"), patients are at risk for morbidity and mortality. Identification of infertile patients at risk for accelerated reproductive senescence may permit preventative action. This study aimed to assess the accuracy of the "epigenetic clock" concept in reproductive age women undergoing fertility treatment by applying the age prediction algorithm in peripheral (white blood cells [WBCs]) and follicular somatic cells (cumulus cells [CCs]), and to identify whether women with premature reproductive aging (diminished ovarian reserve) were at risk of AgeAccel in their age prediction. Results indicated that the epigenetic algorithm accurately predicts age when applied to WBCs but not to CCs. The age prediction of CCs was substantially younger than chronologic age regardless of the patient's age or response to stimulation. In addition, telomeres of CCs were significantly longer than that of WBCs. Our findings suggest that CCs do not demonstrate changes in methylome-predicted age or telomere-length in association with increasing female age or ovarian response to stimulation.
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33
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Vasilopoulos E, Fragkiadaki P, Kalliora C, Fragou D, Docea AO, Vakonaki E, Tsoukalas D, Calina D, Buga AM, Georgiadis G, Mamoulakis C, Makrigiannakis A, Spandidos DA, Tsatsakis A. The association of female and male infertility with telomere length (Review). Int J Mol Med 2019; 44:375-389. [PMID: 31173155 PMCID: PMC6605974 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2019.4225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2019] [Accepted: 05/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Telomere length (TL) has long been associated with aging, as telomeres serve as protective caps of chromosomes, and are thus deeply involved in the preservation of genome integrity and are vital to cellular functions. Traditionally, a strong link connects aging and infertility in both sexes, with an earlier onset in females. Over the past decade, telomeres have attracted increasing attention due to the role they play in fertility. In this review, we investigated the potential positive or negative association between relative TL and different factors of female and male infertility. A systematic search of the PubMed database was conducted. Out of the 206 studies identified, 45 were reviewed as they fulfilled the criteria of validity and relevance. Following an analysis and a comparison of the study outcomes, several clear trends were observed. The majority of female infertility factors were associated with a shorter TL, with the exception of endometriosis, premature ovarian failure and clear cell carcinoma that were associated with a longer TL and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which revealed conflicting results among several studies, leading to ambiguous conclusions. Male infertility factors were associated with a shorter TL. Although this review can provide an outline of general trends in the association of TL with infertility factors, further epidemiological and original research studies are required to focus on investigating the basis of these varying lengths of telomeres.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Persefoni Fragkiadaki
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Medical School, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece
| | - Charikleia Kalliora
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Domniki Fragou
- Laboratory of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Anca Oana Docea
- Department of Toxicology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - Elena Vakonaki
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Medical School, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece
| | - Dimitris Tsoukalas
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Medical School, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece
| | - Daniela Calina
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - Ana Maria Buga
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - George Georgiadis
- Department of Urology, University General Hospital of Heraklion, Medical School, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece
| | - Charalampos Mamoulakis
- Department of Urology, University General Hospital of Heraklion, Medical School, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece
| | - Antonios Makrigiannakis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University General Hospital of Heraklion, Medical School, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece
| | - Demetrios A Spandidos
- Laboratory of Clinical Virology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece
| | - Aristidis Tsatsakis
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Medical School, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece
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34
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Zhang J, Chen Q, Du D, Wu T, Wen J, Wu M, Zhang Y, Yan W, Zhou S, Li Y, Jin Y, Luo A, Wang S. Can ovarian aging be delayed by pharmacological strategies? Aging (Albany NY) 2019; 11:817-832. [PMID: 30674710 PMCID: PMC6366956 DOI: 10.18632/aging.101784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2018] [Accepted: 01/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Aging has been regarded as a treatable condition, and delaying aging could prevent some diseases. Ovarian aging, a special type of organ senescence, is the earliest-aging organ, as ovaries exhibit an accelerated rate of aging with characteristics of gradual declines in ovarian follicle quantity and quality since birth, compared to other organs. Ovarian aging is considered as the pacemaker of female body aging, which drives the aging of multiple organs of the body. Hence, anti-ovarian aging has become a research topic broadly interesting to both biomedical scientists and pharmaceutical industry. A marked progress has been made in exploration of possible anti-ovarian agents or approaches, such as calorie restriction mimetics, antioxidants, autophagy inducers etc., over the past years. This review is attempted to discuss recent advances in the area of anti-ovarian aging pharmacology and to offer new insights into our better understanding of molecular mechanisms underlying ovarian aging, which might be informative for future prevention and treatment of ovarian aging and its related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinjin Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Qian Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Dingfu Du
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Tong Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Jingyi Wen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Meng Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Wei Yan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Su Zhou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Yan Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Yan Jin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Aiyue Luo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Shixuan Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
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35
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Dang Y, Wang X, Hao Y, Zhang X, Zhao S, Ma J, Qin Y, Chen ZJ. MicroRNA-379-5p is associate with biochemical premature ovarian insufficiency through PARP1 and XRCC6. Cell Death Dis 2018; 9:106. [PMID: 29367615 PMCID: PMC5833760 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-017-0163-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2017] [Revised: 11/13/2017] [Accepted: 11/16/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) imposes great challenges on women’s fertility and lifelong health. POI is highly heterogeneous and encompasses occult, biochemical, and overt stages. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are negative regulators of gene expression, whose roles in physiology and diseases like cancers and neurological disorders have been recognized, but little is known about the miRNAs profile and functional relevance in biochemical POI (bPOI). In this study, the expression of miRNAs and mRNAs in granulosa cells (GCs) of bPOI women was determined by two microarrays, respectively. MiR-379-5p, PARP1, and XRCC6 were differentially expressed in GCs of bPOI as revealed by microarrays. Subsequently, functional studies demonstrated that miR-379-5p overexpression inhibited granulosa cell proliferation and attenuated DNA repair efficiency. Furthermore, both PARP1 and XRCC6 showed lower levels in GCs from patients with bPOI and were identified as executives of miR-379-5p. Therefore, our data first uncovered potentially pathogenic miR-379-5p and two novel targets PARP1 and XRCC6 in bPOI, which corroborated the significance of DNA repair for POI, and brought up an epigenetic explanation for the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujie Dang
- Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200001, China.,Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, 250021, China.,National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Jinan, 250001, China.,The Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Jinan, 250001, China.,Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, 250001, China
| | - Xiaoyan Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, 250021, China.,National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Jinan, 250001, China.,The Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Jinan, 250001, China.,Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, 250001, China
| | - Yajing Hao
- Key Laboratory of RNA Biology, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Noncoding RNA, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Xinyue Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, 250021, China.,National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Jinan, 250001, China.,The Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Jinan, 250001, China.,Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, 250001, China
| | - Shidou Zhao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, 250021, China.,National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Jinan, 250001, China.,The Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Jinan, 250001, China.,Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, 250001, China
| | - Jinlong Ma
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, 250021, China.,National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Jinan, 250001, China.,The Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Jinan, 250001, China.,Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, 250001, China
| | - Yingying Qin
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, 250021, China. .,National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Jinan, 250001, China. .,The Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Jinan, 250001, China. .,Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, 250001, China.
| | - Zi-Jiang Chen
- Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200001, China. .,Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, 250021, China. .,National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Jinan, 250001, China. .,The Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Jinan, 250001, China. .,Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, 250001, China. .,Center for Reproductive Medicine, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200135, China. .,Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, 200135, China.
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36
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Torra-Massana M, Barragán M, Bellu E, Oliva R, Rodríguez A, Vassena R. Sperm telomere length in donor samples is not related to ICSI outcome. J Assist Reprod Genet 2018; 35:649-657. [PMID: 29335812 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-017-1104-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2017] [Accepted: 12/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Variations in sperm telomere length (STL) have been associated with altered sperm parameters, poor embryo quality, and lower pregnancy rates, but for normozoospermic men, STL relevance in IVF/ICSI is still uncertain. Moreover, in all studies reported so far, each man's STL was linked to the corresponding female partner characteristics. Here, we study STL in sperm donor samples, each used for up to 12 women, in order to isolate and determine the relationship between STL and reproductive outcomes. METHODS Relative STL was determined by qPCR in 60 samples used in a total of 676 ICSI cycles. Univariable and multivariable statistical analyses were used to study the STL effect on fertilization rate; embryo morphology; biochemical, clinical, and ongoing pregnancy rates; and live birth (LB) rates. RESULTS The average STL value was 4.5 (relative units; SD 1.9; range 2.4-14.2). Locally weighted scatterplot smoothing regression and the rho-Spearman test did not reveal significant correlations between STL and the outcomes analyzed. STL was not different between cycles resulting or not in pregnancy and LB (Mann-Whitney U test, p > 0.05). No significant effect of STL on reproductive outcomes was found, with the OR for each unit increase in STL (95% CI) of 0.94 (0.86-1-04), 0.99 (0.9-1.09), 0.98 (0.89-1.09), and 0.93 (0.8-1.06) for biochemical, clinical, and ongoing pregnancy and LB, respectively. The multilevel analysis confirmed that the effect of STL on fertilization; biochemical, clinical, and ongoing pregnancy; and LB was not significant (p > 0.05). CONCLUSION After addressing STL independently from female variables, results show that STL measurement is not useful to predict reproductive outcomes in ICSI cycles using donor semen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Torra-Massana
- Clínica EUGIN, Travessera de les Corts 322, 08029, Barcelona, Spain.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Emanuela Bellu
- Clínica EUGIN, Travessera de les Corts 322, 08029, Barcelona, Spain.,Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Rafael Oliva
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Faculty of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Amelia Rodríguez
- Clínica EUGIN, Travessera de les Corts 322, 08029, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Rita Vassena
- Clínica EUGIN, Travessera de les Corts 322, 08029, Barcelona, Spain.
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