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Ma J, Liu L, Yang H, Wan Y, Zhang Y, Wang F. Melatonin regulates the antioxidant capacity of sheep granulosa cells through a novel uORF-Nrf2aa mediated Nrf2/KEAP1 pathway. Life Sci 2024; 349:122693. [PMID: 38710277 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2024.122693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 04/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
Ovarian dysfunction stands as a prevalent contributor to female infertility, with its etiology intertwined with genetic, autoimmune, and environmental factors. Within the ovarian follicles, granulosa cells (GCs) represent the predominant cell population. Alterations in GCs, notably oxidative stress (OS) and the consequential surge in reactive oxygen species (ROS), play pivotal roles in the orchestration of ovarian function. Nrf2aa, a newly identified upstream open reading frame (uORF), is situated within the 5' untranslated region (5'UTR) of sheep Nrf2 mRNA and is regulated by melatonin, a crucial intrafollicular antioxidant. In this study, we have noted that Nrf2aa has the capacity to encode a peptide and exerts a negative regulatory effect on the translation efficiency (TE) of the Nrf2 CDs region. Further in vitro experiments, we observed that interfering with Nrf2aa can enhance the cellular functionality of GCs under 3-np-induced oxidative stress, while overexpressing Nrf2aa has the opposite effect. Furthermore, overexpression of Nrf2aa counteracts the rescuing effect of melatonin on the cellular functions of GCs under oxidative stress conditions, including estrogen secretion, proliferation, apoptosis, and many more. Finally, we confirmed that Nrf2aa, by regulating the expression of key proteins in the Nrf2/KEAP1 signaling pathway, further modulates the antioxidant levels in GCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianyu Ma
- Institute of Sheep and Goat Science, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Liang Liu
- Institute of Sheep and Goat Science, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Hua Yang
- Institute of Sheep and Goat Science, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yongjie Wan
- Institute of Sheep and Goat Science, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yanli Zhang
- Institute of Sheep and Goat Science, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Feng Wang
- Institute of Sheep and Goat Science, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China.
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Venturas M, Racowsky C, Needleman DJ. Metabolic imaging of human cumulus cells reveals associations with pregnancy and live birth. Hum Reprod 2024; 39:1176-1185. [PMID: 38719791 PMCID: PMC11145010 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deae087] [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: 12/12/2023] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/04/2024] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Can fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM) detect associations between the metabolic state of cumulus cell (CC) samples and the clinical outcome of the corresponding embryos? SUMMARY ANSWER FLIM can detect significant variations in the metabolism of CC associated with the corresponding embryos that resulted in a clinical pregnancy versus those that did not. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY CC and oocyte metabolic cooperativity are known to be necessary for the acquisition of developmental competence. However, reliable CC biomarkers that reflect oocyte viability and embryo developmental competency have yet to be established. Quantitative measures of CC metabolism could be used to aid in the evaluation of oocyte and embryo quality in ART. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION A prospective observational study was carried out. In total, 223 patients undergoing IVF with either conventional insemination or ICSI at a tertiary care center from February 2018 to May 2020 were included, with no exclusion criteria applied. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS This cohort had a mean maternal age of 36.5 ± 4.4 years and an average oocyte yield of 16.9 (range 1-50). One to four CC clusters from each patient were collected after oocyte retrieval and vitrified. CC metabolic state was assessed using FLIM to measure the autofluorescence of the molecules NAD(P)H and FAD+, which are essential for multiple metabolic pathways. CC clusters were tracked with their corresponding oocytes and associated embryos. Patient age, Day 3 and Day 5/6 embryo morphological grades, and clinical outcomes of embryos with traceable fate were recorded. Nine FLIM quantitative parameters were obtained for each CC cluster. We investigated associations between the FLIM parameters and patient maternal age, embryo morphological rank, ploidy, and clinical outcome, where false discovery rate P-values of <0.05 were considered statistically significant. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE A total of 851 CC clusters from 851 cumulus-oocyte complexes from 223 patients were collected. Of these CC clusters, 623 were imaged using FLIM. None of the measured CC FLIM parameters were correlated with Day 3 morphological rank or ploidy of the corresponding embryos, but FAD+ FLIM parameters were significantly associated with morphological rank of blastocysts. There were significant differences for FAD+ FLIM parameters (FAD+ fraction engaged and short lifetime) from CC clusters linked with embryos resulting in a clinical pregnancy compared with those that did not, as well as for CC clusters associated with embryos that resulted in a live birth compared those that did not. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Our data are based on a relatively low number of traceable embryos from an older patient population. Additionally, we only assessed CCs from 1 to 4 oocytes from each patient. Future work in a younger patient population with a larger number of traceable embryos, as well as measuring the metabolic state of CCs from all oocytes from each patient, would provide a better understanding of the potential utility of this technology for oocyte/embryo selection. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Metabolic imaging via FLIM is able to detect CC metabolic associations with maternal age and detects variations in the metabolism of CCs associated with oocytes leading to embryos that result in a clinical pregnancy and a live birth versus those that do not. Our findings suggest that FLIM of CCs may be used as a new approach to aid in the assessment of oocyte and embryo developmental competence in clinical ART. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) National Institutes of Health grant NIH R01HD092550-03 (to C.R., and D.J.N.). Becker and Hickl GmbH and Boston Electronics sponsored research with the loaning of equipment for FLIM. D.J.N. and C.R. are inventors on patent US20170039415A1. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Venturas
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology and School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Boston IVF-TheEugin Group, Waltham, MA, USA
| | - C Racowsky
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham & Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Hospital Foch, Suresnes, France
| | - D J Needleman
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology and School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Center for Computational Biology, Flatiron Institute, New York, USA
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Chaney HL, Current JZ, Zhang M, Nist VA, Nicewarner BM, Yao J. Characterization of agouti-signaling protein (ASIP) in the bovine ovary and throughout early embryogenesis. Cells Dev 2024:203930. [PMID: 38815807 DOI: 10.1016/j.cdev.2024.203930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 05/14/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
The oocyte expresses certain genes during folliculogenesis to regulate the acquisition of oocyte competence. Oocyte competence, or oocyte quality, is directly related to the ability of the oocyte to result in a successful pregnancy following fertilization. Presently, approximately 40 % of bovine embryos will develop to the blastocyst stage in vitro. Characterization of factors regulating these processes is crucial to improve the efficiency of bovine in vitro embryo production. We demonstrated that the secreted protein, agouti-signaling protein (ASIP) is highly abundant in the bovine oocyte and aimed to characterize its spatiotemporal expression profile in the ovary and throughout early embryonic development. In addition to oocyte expression, ASIP was detected in granulosa, cumulus, and theca cells isolated from antral follicles. Both gene expression data and immunofluorescent staining indicated ASIP declines with oocyte maturation which may indicate a potential role for ASIP in the attainment of oocyte competence. Microinjection of zygotes using small interfering RNA targeting ASIP led to a 16 % reduction in the rate of development to the blastocyst stage. Additionally, we examined potential ASIP signaling mechanisms through which ASIP may function to establish oocyte developmental competence. The expression of melanocortin receptor 3 and 4 and the coreceptor attractin was detected in the oocyte and follicular cells. The addition of cortisol during in vitro maturation was found to increase significantly oocyte ASIP levels. In conclusion, these results suggest a functional role for ASIP in promoting oocyte maturation and subsequent embryonic development, potentially through signaling mechanisms involving cortisol.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather L Chaney
- Davis College of Agriculture, Natural Resources and Design, Division of Animal and Nutritional Sciences, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Jaelyn Z Current
- Davis College of Agriculture, Natural Resources and Design, Division of Animal and Nutritional Sciences, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Mingxiang Zhang
- Davis College of Agriculture, Natural Resources and Design, Division of Animal and Nutritional Sciences, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Victoria A Nist
- Davis College of Agriculture, Natural Resources and Design, Division of Animal and Nutritional Sciences, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Brady M Nicewarner
- Davis College of Agriculture, Natural Resources and Design, Division of Animal and Nutritional Sciences, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Jianbo Yao
- Davis College of Agriculture, Natural Resources and Design, Division of Animal and Nutritional Sciences, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA.
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Jia Y, Liu Y, Wang P, Liu Z, Zhang R, Chu M, Zhao A. NTRK2 Promotes Sheep Granulosa Cells Proliferation and Reproductive Hormone Secretion and Activates the PI3K/AKT Pathway. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:1465. [PMID: 38791682 PMCID: PMC11117346 DOI: 10.3390/ani14101465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2024] [Revised: 05/04/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Neurotrophin receptor B (NTRK2), also named TRKB, belongs to the neurotrophic factor family. Previous studies have shown that NTRK2 is associated with high fertility in mammals. However, the molecular mechanism and regulatory pathway of this neurotrophic factor remain unclear. In this study, NTRK2 overexpression and NTRK2-siRNA were constructed to detect the effects of NTRK2 on the proliferation and hormone secretion of the ovarian granulosa cells (GCs) of sheep. We successfully isolated follicular phase granulosa cells in vitro from the ovaries of sheep in simultaneous estrus, and the immunofluorescence results confirmed that NTRK2 was expressed in the collected cells. Subsequently, the effect of NTRK2 on the proliferation of sheep granulosa cells was examined via cell transfection experiments. The results showed that the expression of CDK4 and CyclinD2 was significantly increased after NTRK2 overexpression, while the opposite trend was observed after the inhibition of NTRK2 expression (p < 0.05). The EdU and CCK-8 assays showed that the proliferation rate of sheep GCs was significantly increased after NTRK2 overexpression, while the opposite trend was observed after the inhibition of NTRK2 expression (p < 0.05). Moreover, NTRK2 significantly increased the expression of steroidogenesis-related genes, including steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (STAR) and hydroxy-δ-5-steroid dehydrogenase (HSD3B1), and cytochrome P450 family 19 subfamily A member 1 (CYP19A1). The ELISA results showed that the secretion levels of E2 and P4 significantly increased after NTRK2 overexpression, while the opposite trend was observed after the inhibition of NTRK2 expression (p < 0.05). Previous studies had confirmed that NTRK2 gene belongs to the PI3K-AKT signaling pathway and participates in the signaling of this pathway. This was demonstrated by protein-protein interaction analysis and NTRK2 belongs to the PI3K-AKT pathway. The modification of PI3K and AKT, markers of the PI3K-AKT pathway, via phosphorylation was increased after NTRK2 overexpression in the sheep GCs, while the opposite trend was observed after the inhibition of NTRK2 expression (p < 0.05). Overall, these results suggest that the NTRK2 gene regulates the proliferation of GCs and the secretion of steroid hormones in sheep, and that it influences the phosphorylation level of the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. These findings provided a theoretical basis and new perspectives for exploring the regulation of NTRK2 gene in the development of ovine follicles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuhang Jia
- College of Animal Science and Technology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang Agriculture and Forestry University, Hangzhou 311300, China;
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), Beijing 100193, China; (Y.L.); (P.W.); (Z.L.); (R.Z.)
| | - Yufang Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), Beijing 100193, China; (Y.L.); (P.W.); (Z.L.); (R.Z.)
| | - Peng Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), Beijing 100193, China; (Y.L.); (P.W.); (Z.L.); (R.Z.)
| | - Ziyi Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), Beijing 100193, China; (Y.L.); (P.W.); (Z.L.); (R.Z.)
| | - Runan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), Beijing 100193, China; (Y.L.); (P.W.); (Z.L.); (R.Z.)
| | - Mingxing Chu
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), Beijing 100193, China; (Y.L.); (P.W.); (Z.L.); (R.Z.)
| | - Ayong Zhao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang Agriculture and Forestry University, Hangzhou 311300, China;
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Jitngamsujarit S, Salang L, Saengboonmee C, Sorin S, Thithuan K, Pongsritasana T, Sukkasame S. Advancing Age May Decrease Mitochondrial Activity in Cumulus Cells. J Clin Med 2024; 13:2800. [PMID: 38792342 PMCID: PMC11122456 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13102800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2024] [Revised: 05/04/2024] [Accepted: 05/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: The goal of this study was to compare mitochondrial activity in cumulus cells (CCs) between young and advancing-aged women, the factors that affect mitochondrial activity, and their association with blastocyst quality. Materials and methods: This prospective study included 80 infertile women who underwent ICSI between May and October 2023. Participants were divided into two groups: older and younger than 38. The oocyte mitochondrial activity from CCs was evaluated using MitoTracker, and the mean fluorescence intensity (MFI) was also evaluated. Results: The univariate and multivariate analyses revealed a significant difference in the MFI between the woman ≥ 38 age group and the lower age group (162.68 ± 79.87 vs. 228.39 ± 121.38; p-value = 0.005; 95%CI 19.97, 111.45). The factors that affected the MFI were women ≥ 38 years of age (p-value = 0.005; 95%CI -111.45, -19.91), total gonadotropin dosages (p-value = 0.006; 95%CI -0.08, 0.01), and gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist (GnRHa) triggering (p-value = 0.006; 95%CI 36.46, 210.06). However, only women aged ≥38 years remained statistically significant after a multivariable regression analysis (p-value = 0.014; 95%CI -121.00, -14.30). In addition, only male age (mean age ± SD = 38.26 ± 5.13) was associated with high blastocyst quality in univariate and mixed multivariate analyses (OR 0.91; 95%CI 0.56, 3.04). The chemical pregnancy rate was not significantly different between the two age groups (34.5% vs. 56.7%; p-value = 0.162; 95%CI 0.2, 1.30). Conclusion: Advancing age decreased mitochondrial activity in CCs but did not affect blastocyst quality. By contrast, male age may be a predictor of high-grade blastocyst quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suwichaya Jitngamsujarit
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand; (S.J.); (T.P.); (S.S.)
| | - Lingling Salang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand; (S.J.); (T.P.); (S.S.)
| | - Charupong Saengboonmee
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand; (C.S.); (S.S.); (K.T.)
| | - Supannika Sorin
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand; (C.S.); (S.S.); (K.T.)
| | - Kanyarat Thithuan
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand; (C.S.); (S.S.); (K.T.)
| | - Thanida Pongsritasana
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand; (S.J.); (T.P.); (S.S.)
| | - Sineenart Sukkasame
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand; (S.J.); (T.P.); (S.S.)
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Chen Y, Ma G, Gai Y, Yang Q, Liu X, de Avila JM, Mao S, Zhu M, Du M. AMPK Suppression Due to Obesity Drives Oocyte mtDNA Heteroplasmy via ATF5-POLG Axis. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2307480. [PMID: 38499990 PMCID: PMC11132083 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202307480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
Due to the exclusive maternal transmission, oocyte mitochondrial dysfunction reduces fertility rates, affects embryonic development, and programs offspring to metabolic diseases. However, mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) are vulnerable to mutations during oocyte maturation, leading to mitochondrial nucleotide variations (mtSNVs) within a single oocyte, referring to mtDNA heteroplasmy. Obesity (OB) accounts for more than 40% of women at the reproductive age in the USA, but little is known about impacts of OB on mtSNVs in mature oocytes. It is found that OB reduces mtDNA content and increases mtSNVs in mature oocytes, which impairs mitochondrial energetic functions and oocyte quality. In mature oocytes, OB suppresses AMPK activity, aligned with an increased binding affinity of the ATF5-POLG protein complex to mutated mtDNA D-loop and protein-coding regions. Similarly, AMPK knockout increases the binding affinity of ATF5-POLG proteins to mutated mtDNA, leading to the replication of heteroplasmic mtDNA and impairing oocyte quality. Consistently, AMPK activation blocks the detrimental impacts of OB by preventing ATF5-POLG protein recruitment, improving oocyte maturation and mitochondrial energetics. Overall, the data uncover key features of AMPK activation in suppressing mtSNVs, and improving mitochondrial biogenesis and oocyte maturation in obese females.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanting Chen
- National Center for Internatinal Research on Animal Gut NutritionJingsu Key Laboratory of Gastrointestinal Nutrition and Animal HealthCollege of Animal Science and TechnologyNanjing Agricultural UniversityNanjing210095China
- Nutrigenomics and Growth Biology LaboratoryDepartment of Animal SciencesWashington State UniversityPullmanWA99164USA
| | - Guiling Ma
- National Center for Internatinal Research on Animal Gut NutritionJingsu Key Laboratory of Gastrointestinal Nutrition and Animal HealthCollege of Animal Science and TechnologyNanjing Agricultural UniversityNanjing210095China
- Nutrigenomics and Growth Biology LaboratoryDepartment of Animal SciencesWashington State UniversityPullmanWA99164USA
| | - Yang Gai
- National Center for Internatinal Research on Animal Gut NutritionJingsu Key Laboratory of Gastrointestinal Nutrition and Animal HealthCollege of Animal Science and TechnologyNanjing Agricultural UniversityNanjing210095China
| | - Qiyuan Yang
- Department of MolecularCell and Cancer BiologyUniversity of Massachusetts Chan Medical SchoolWorcesterMA01655USA
| | - Xiangdong Liu
- Nutrigenomics and Growth Biology LaboratoryDepartment of Animal SciencesWashington State UniversityPullmanWA99164USA
- Department of Cancer biologyDana‐Farber Cancer InstituteHarvard Medical SchoolBostonMA02215USA
| | - Jeanene M. de Avila
- Nutrigenomics and Growth Biology LaboratoryDepartment of Animal SciencesWashington State UniversityPullmanWA99164USA
| | - Shengyong Mao
- National Center for Internatinal Research on Animal Gut NutritionJingsu Key Laboratory of Gastrointestinal Nutrition and Animal HealthCollege of Animal Science and TechnologyNanjing Agricultural UniversityNanjing210095China
| | - Mei‐Jun Zhu
- School of Food SciencesWashington State UniversityPullmanWA99164USA
| | - Min Du
- Nutrigenomics and Growth Biology LaboratoryDepartment of Animal SciencesWashington State UniversityPullmanWA99164USA
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Jiao Y, Bei C, Wang Y, Liao A, Guo J, Li X, Jiang T, Liu X, Chen Y, Cong P, He Z. Bone morphogenetic protein 15 gene disruption affects the in vitro maturation of porcine oocytes by impairing spindle assembly and organelle function. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 267:131417. [PMID: 38582457 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.131417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2024] [Revised: 04/03/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/08/2024]
Abstract
Bone morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP15) plays a crucial role in the porcine follicular development. However, its exact functions in the in vitro maturation (IVM) of porcine oocytes remain largely unknown. Here, through cytoplasmic injection of a preassembled crRNA-tracrRNA-Cas9 ribonucleoprotein complex, we achieved BMP15 disruption in approximately 54 % of the cultured porcine oocytes. Editing BMP15 impaired the IVM of porcine oocytes, as indicated by the significantly increased abnormal spindle assembly and reduced first polar body (PB1) extrusion. The editing also impaired cytoplasmic maturation of porcine oocytes, as reflected by reduced abundant of Golgi apparatus and impaired functions of mitochondria. The impaired IVM of porcine oocytes by editing BMP15 possibly was associated with the attenuated SMAD1/5 and EGFR-ERK1/2 signaling in the cumulus granulosa cells (CGCs) and the inhibited MOS/ERK1/2 signaling in oocytes. The attenuated MOS/ERK1/2 signaling may contribute to the inactivation of maturation promoting factor (MPF) and the increased abnormal spindle assembly, leading to reduced PB1 extrusion. It also may contribute to reduced Golgi apparatus formation, and impaired functions of mitochondria. These findings expand our understanding of the regulatory role of BMP15 in the IVM of porcine oocytes and provide a basis for manipulation of porcine reproductive performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yafei Jiao
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510275, China
| | - Chang Bei
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510275, China
| | - Yixian Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510275, China
| | - Alian Liao
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510275, China
| | - Jinming Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510275, China
| | - Xinran Li
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510275, China
| | - Tiantuan Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510275, China
| | - Xiaohong Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510275, China
| | - Yaosheng Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510275, China
| | - Peiqing Cong
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510275, China; Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510642, China.
| | - Zuyong He
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510275, China.
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Wu T, Huang J, Li Y, Guo Y, Wang H, Zhang Y. Prenatal acetaminophen exposure and the developing ovary: Time, dose, and course consequences for fetal mice. Food Chem Toxicol 2024; 189:114679. [PMID: 38657942 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2024.114679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2023] [Revised: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Acetaminophen is an emerging endocrine disrupting chemical and has been detected in various natural matrices. Numerous studies have documented developmental toxicity associated with prenatal acetaminophen exposure (PAcE). In this study, we established a PAcE Kunming mouse model at different time (middle pregnancy and third trimester), doses (low, middle, high) and courses (single or multi-) to systematically investigate their effects on fetal ovarian development. The findings indicated PAcE affected ovarian development, reduced fetal ovarian oocyte number and inhibited cell proliferation. A reduction in mRNA expression was observed for genes associated with oocyte markers (NOBOX and Figlα), follicular development markers (BMP15 and GDF9), and pre-granulosa cell steroid synthase (SF1 and StAR). Notably, exposure in middle pregnancy, high dose, multi-course resulted in the most pronounced inhibition of oocyte development; exposure in third trimester, high dose and multi-course led to the most pronounced inhibition of follicular development; and in third trimester, low dose and single course, the inhibition of pre-granulosa cell function was most pronounced. Mechanistic investigations revealed that PAcE had the most pronounced suppression of the ovarian Notch signaling pathway. Overall, PAcE caused fetal ovarian multicellular toxicity and inhibited follicular development with time, dose and course differences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiancheng Wu
- Department of Obstetrics, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Jing Huang
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology and HN Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China; Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Developmentally Originated Disease, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Yating Li
- Department of Obstetrics, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Yu Guo
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China; Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Developmentally Originated Disease, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Hui Wang
- Department of Obstetrics, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China; Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China; Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Developmentally Originated Disease, Wuhan, 430071, China.
| | - Yuanzhen Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China; Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Developmentally Originated Disease, Wuhan, 430071, China; Clinical Research Center for Prenatal Diagnosis and Birth Health of Hubei Province, Wuhan, 430071, China; Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Science and Birth Health of Wuhan, Wuhan, 430071, China.
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Duan Y, Cai B, Guo J, Wang C, Mai Q, Xu Y, Zeng Y, Shi Y, Wang B, Ding C, Chen M, Zhou C, Xu Y. GDF9 His209GlnfsTer6/S428T and GDF9 Q321X/S428T bi-allelic variants caused female subfertility with defective follicle enlargement. Cell Commun Signal 2024; 22:235. [PMID: 38643161 PMCID: PMC11031944 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-024-01616-8] [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: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/22/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Antral follicles consist of an oocyte cumulus complex surrounding by somatic cells, including mural granulosa cells as the inner layer and theca cells as the outsider layer. The communications between oocytes and granulosa cells have been extensively explored in in vitro studies, however, the role of oocyte-derived factor GDF9 on in vivo antral follicle development remains elusive due to lack of an appropriate animal model. Clinically, the phenotype of GDF9 variants needs to be determined. METHODS Whole-exome sequencing (WES) was performed on two unrelated infertile women characterized by an early rise of estradiol level and defect in follicle enlargement. Besides, WES data on 1,039 women undergoing ART treatment were collected. A Gdf9Q308X/S415T mouse model was generated based on the variant found in one of the patients. RESULTS Two probands with bi-allelic GDF9 variants (GDF9His209GlnfsTer6/S428T, GDF9Q321X/S428T) and eight GDF9S428T heterozygotes with normal ovarian response were identified. In vitro experiments confirmed that these variants caused reduction of GDF9 secretion, and/or alleviation in BMP15 binding. Gdf9Q308X/S415T mouse model was constructed, which recapitulated the phenotypes in probands with abnormal estrogen secretion and defected follicle enlargement. Further experiments in mouse model showed an earlier expression of STAR in small antral follicles and decreased proliferative capacity in large antral follicles. In addition, RNA sequencing of granulosa cells revealed the transcriptomic profiles related to defective follicle enlargement in the Gdf9Q308X/S415T group. One of the downregulated genes, P4HA2 (a collagen related gene), was found to be stimulated by GDF9 protein, which partly explained the phenotype of defective follicle enlargement. CONCLUSIONS GDF9 bi-allelic variants contributed to the defect in antral follicle development. Oocyte itself participated in the regulation of follicle development through GDF9 paracrine effect, highlighting the essential role of oocyte-derived factors on ovarian response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuwei Duan
- Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Center for Reproductive Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
- Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for obstetrical and gynecological diseases, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
| | - Bing Cai
- Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Center for Reproductive Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
- Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for obstetrical and gynecological diseases, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
| | - Jing Guo
- Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Center for Reproductive Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
- Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for obstetrical and gynecological diseases, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
| | - Chen Wang
- Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Center for Reproductive Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
- Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for obstetrical and gynecological diseases, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
| | - Qingyun Mai
- Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Center for Reproductive Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
- Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for obstetrical and gynecological diseases, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
| | - Yan Xu
- Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Center for Reproductive Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
- Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for obstetrical and gynecological diseases, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
| | - Yang Zeng
- Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Center for Reproductive Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
- Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for obstetrical and gynecological diseases, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
| | - Yue Shi
- Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Center for Reproductive Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
- Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for obstetrical and gynecological diseases, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
| | - Boyan Wang
- Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Center for Reproductive Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
- Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for obstetrical and gynecological diseases, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
| | - Chenhui Ding
- Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Center for Reproductive Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
- Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for obstetrical and gynecological diseases, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
| | - Minghui Chen
- Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Center for Reproductive Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
- Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for obstetrical and gynecological diseases, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
| | - Canquan Zhou
- Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Center for Reproductive Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
- Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for obstetrical and gynecological diseases, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
| | - Yanwen Xu
- Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Center for Reproductive Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China.
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China.
- Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for obstetrical and gynecological diseases, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China.
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10
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Ferrer-Roda M, Izquierdo D, Gil A, Oliveira MEF, Paramio MT. Oocyte Competence of Prepubertal Sheep and Goat Oocytes: An Assessment of Large-Scale Chromatin Configuration and Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Expression in Oocytes and Cumulus Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4474. [PMID: 38674059 PMCID: PMC11049957 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25084474] [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: 03/13/2024] [Revised: 04/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The oocyte competence of prepubertal females is lower compared to that of adults, mainly because they originate from small follicles. In adult females, the germinal vesicle (GV) and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) have been associated with oocyte competence. This study aimed to analyze GV chromatin configuration and EGFR expression in prepubertal goat and sheep oocytes obtained from small (<3 mm) and large (≥3 mm) follicles and compare them with those from adults. GV chromatin was classified from diffuse to condensed as GV1, GVn, and GVc for goats and NSN, SN, and SNE for sheep. EGFR was quantified in cumulus cells (CCs) by Western blotting and in oocytes by immunofluorescence. Oocytes from prepubertal large follicles and adults exhibited highly condensed chromatin in goats (71% and 69% in GVc, respectively) and sheep (59% and 75% in SNE, respectively). In both species, EGFR expression in CCs and oocytes was higher in prepubertal large follicles than in small ones. In adult females, EGFR expression in oocytes was higher than in prepubertal large follicles. In conclusion, GV configuration and EGFR expression in CCs and oocytes were higher in the large than small follicles of prepubertal females.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mònica Ferrer-Roda
- Department of Animal and Food Science, Veterinary Faculty, Autonomous University of Barcelona, 08193 Barcelona, Spain; (M.F.-R.); (D.I.); (A.G.); (M.E.F.O.)
| | - Dolors Izquierdo
- Department of Animal and Food Science, Veterinary Faculty, Autonomous University of Barcelona, 08193 Barcelona, Spain; (M.F.-R.); (D.I.); (A.G.); (M.E.F.O.)
| | - Ana Gil
- Department of Animal and Food Science, Veterinary Faculty, Autonomous University of Barcelona, 08193 Barcelona, Spain; (M.F.-R.); (D.I.); (A.G.); (M.E.F.O.)
| | - Maria Emilia Franco Oliveira
- Department of Animal and Food Science, Veterinary Faculty, Autonomous University of Barcelona, 08193 Barcelona, Spain; (M.F.-R.); (D.I.); (A.G.); (M.E.F.O.)
- School of Agricultural and Veterinarian Sciences, São Paulo State University, São Paulo 14884-900, Brazil
| | - Maria-Teresa Paramio
- Department of Animal and Food Science, Veterinary Faculty, Autonomous University of Barcelona, 08193 Barcelona, Spain; (M.F.-R.); (D.I.); (A.G.); (M.E.F.O.)
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11
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Tang Y, Lu S, Wei J, Xu R, Zhang H, Wei Q, Han B, Gao Y, Zhao X, Peng S, Pan M, Ma B. Growth differentiation factor 9 regulates the expression of estrogen receptors via Smad2/3 signaling in goat cumulus cells. Theriogenology 2024; 219:65-74. [PMID: 38402699 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2024.02.021] [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: 10/09/2023] [Revised: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
Both oocyte secretory factors (OSFs) and estrogen are essential for the development and function of mammalian ovarian follicles, playing synergistic role in regulating oocyte growth. OSFs can significantly affect the biological processes regulated by estrogen in cumulus cells (CCs). It is a scientific question worth investigating whether oocyte secretory factors can influence the expression of estrogen receptors in CCs. In our study, we observed a significant increase in the mRNA and protein expressions of estrogen receptor β (Esr2/ERβ) and G-protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER) in cumulus cells of goat cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) cultured in vitro for 6 h. Furthermore, the addition of 10 ng/mL growth-differentiation factor 9 (GDF9) and 5 ng/mL bone morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP15) to the culture medium of goat COCs resulted in a significant increase in the expressions of ERβ and GPER in cumulus cells. To explore the mechanism further, we performed micromanipulation to remove oocyte contents and co-cultured the oocytectomized complexes (OOXs) with denuded oocytes (DOs) or GDF9/BMP15. The expressions of ERβ and GPER in the co-culture groups were significantly higher than those in the OOXs group, but there was no difference compared to the COCs group. Mechanistically, we found that SB431542 (inhibitor of GDF9 bioactivity), but not LDN193189 (inhibitor of BMP15 bioactivity), abolished the upregulation of ERβ and GPER in cumulus cells and the activation of Smad2/3 signaling. In conclusion, our results demonstrate that the oocyte secretory factor GDF9 promotes the activation of Smad2/3 signaling in cumulus cells during goat COCs culture in vitro, and the phosphorylation of Smad2/3 induces the expression of estrogen receptors ERβ and GPER in cumulus cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaju Tang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, PR China
| | - Sihai Lu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, PR China
| | - Juncai Wei
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, PR China
| | - Rui Xu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, PR China
| | - Hui Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, PR China
| | - Qiang Wei
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, PR China
| | - Bin Han
- Yulin Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Service Center, Yulin, 719000, Shaanxi, PR China
| | - Yan Gao
- Yulin Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Service Center, Yulin, 719000, Shaanxi, PR China
| | - Xiaoe Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, PR China
| | - Sha Peng
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, PR China
| | - Menghao Pan
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, PR China
| | - Baohua Ma
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, PR China.
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12
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Nahar A, Becker J, Pasquariello R, Herrick J, Rogers H, Zhang M, Schoolcraft W, Krisher RL, Yuan Y. FGF2, LIF, and IGF-1 supplementation improves mouse oocyte in vitro maturation via increased glucose metabolism†. Biol Reprod 2024; 110:672-683. [PMID: 38263524 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioae014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 01/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Chemically defined oocyte maturation media supplemented with FGF2, LIF, and IGF-1 (FLI medium) enabled significantly improved oocyte quality in multiple farm animals, yet the molecular mechanisms behind such benefits were poorly defined. Here, we first demonstrated that FLI medium enhanced mouse oocyte quality assessed by blastocyst formation after in vitro fertilization and implantation and fetal development after embryo transfer. We then analyzed the glucose concentrations in the spent media; reactive oxygen species concentrations; mitochondrial membrane potential; spindle morphology in oocytes; and the abundance of transcripts of endothelial growth factor-like factors, cumulus expansion factors, and glucose metabolism-related genes in cumulus cells. We found that FLI medium enabled increased glucose metabolism through glycolysis, pentose phosphate pathway, and hexosamine biosynthetic pathway, as well as more active endothelial growth factor-like factor expressions in cumulus cells, resulting in improved cumulus cell expansion, decreased spindle abnormality, and overall improvement in oocyte quality. In addition, the activities of MAPK1/3, PI3K/AKT, JAK/STAT3, and mTOR signaling pathways in cumulus cells were assessed by the phosphorylation of MAPK1/3, AKT, STAT3, and mTOR downstream target RPS6KB1. We demonstrated that FLI medium promoted activations of all these signaling pathways at multiple different time points during in vitro maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asrafun Nahar
- Colorado Center for Reproductive Medicine, Lone Tree, CO, USA
| | - John Becker
- Colorado Center for Reproductive Medicine, Lone Tree, CO, USA
| | - Rolando Pasquariello
- Colorado Center for Reproductive Medicine, Lone Tree, CO, USA
- Department of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Jason Herrick
- Colorado Center for Reproductive Medicine, Lone Tree, CO, USA
- Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Heather Rogers
- Colorado Center for Reproductive Medicine, Lone Tree, CO, USA
| | - Mingxiang Zhang
- Colorado Center for Reproductive Medicine, Lone Tree, CO, USA
| | | | - Rebecca L Krisher
- Colorado Center for Reproductive Medicine, Lone Tree, CO, USA
- Genus Plc, DeForest, WI, USA
| | - Ye Yuan
- Colorado Center for Reproductive Medicine, Lone Tree, CO, USA
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13
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Vitale F, Cacciottola L, Camboni A, Houeis L, Donnez J, Dolmans MM. Assessing the effect of adipose-tissue-derived stem cell conditioned medium on follicles and stromal cells in bovine ovarian tissue culture. Reprod Biomed Online 2024; 49:103938. [PMID: 38759499 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2024.103938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Does adipose-tissue-derived stem cell conditioned medium (ASC-CM) supplementation enhance follicle and stromal cell outcomes in vitro? DESIGN Bovine ovaries (n = 8) were sectioned and cultured in vitro for 8 days in two different groups: (i) standard culture (OT Ctrl D8); and (ii) culture with ASC-CM supplementation (OT + CM D8). Half of the culture medium was replaced every other day, and stored to measure the production of oestradiol. Follicle classification was established using haematoxylin and eosin staining. Follicle and stromal cell DNA fragmentation was assessed by TUNEL assays, while growth differentiation factor-9 (GDF-9) staining served as a marker of follicle quality. Additionally, three factors, namely vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), interleukin 6 (IL-6) and transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1), were evaluated in ASC-CM in order to appraise the potential underlying mechanisms of action of ASC. RESULTS The OT + CM D8 group showed a significantly higher proportion of secondary follicles (P = 0.02) compared with the OT Ctrl D8 group. The OT + CM D8 group also demonstrated significantly lower percentages of TUNEL-positive follicles (P = 0.014) and stromal cells (P = 0.001) compared with the OT Ctrl D8 group. Furthermore, follicles in the OT + CM D8 group exhibited a significant increase (P = 0.002) in expression of GDF-9 compared with those in the OT Ctrl D8 group, and oestradiol production was significantly higher (P = 0.04) in the OT + CM D8 group. All studied factors were found to be present in ASC-CM. VEGF and IL-6 were the most widely expressed factors, while TGF-β1 showed the lowest expression. CONCLUSIONS Addition of ASC-CM to culture medium enhances follicle survival, development and oestradiol production, and promotes the viability of stromal cells. VEGF, IL-6 and TGF-β1 could be paracrine mediators underlying the beneficial effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco Vitale
- Gynaecology Research Unit, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Luciana Cacciottola
- Gynaecology Research Unit, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Alessandra Camboni
- Gynaecology Research Unit, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium; Pathology Department, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Lara Houeis
- Gynaecology Research Unit, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Jacques Donnez
- Société de Recherche pour l'Infertilité, Brussels, Belgium; Professor Em, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Marie-Madeleine Dolmans
- Gynaecology Research Unit, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium; Gynaecology Department, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium.
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14
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Hu R, Huang Y, Geng Y, Liu Z, Li F, Zhang Z, Ma W, Song K, Dong H, Song Y, Zhang M. Jiawei Buzhong Yiqi decoction ameliorates polycystic ovary syndrome via oocyte-granulosa cell communication. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 323:117654. [PMID: 38158097 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.117654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Jiawei Buzhong Yiqi Decoction (JWBZYQ), from records of FuqingzhuNvke, is a classical formula for treating obese women related infertility. JWBZYQ has been shown to be effective in treating polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in both clinical studies and practical practice, with the pharmacological mechanism remaining unknown. AIM OF THE STUDY To explore the potential therapeutic effects and mechanistic insights of JWBZYQ in PCOS. MATERIALS AND METHODS An overweight PCOS rat model was established via testosterone propionate (TP) injection and 45% high-fat diet (HFD). Then they were categorized into five distinct groups: Control group, Model group, low-dose of JWBZYQ (JWBZYQ1) group, high-dose of JWBZYQ (JWBZYQ2) group, and metformin (Met) group. Body weight, estrous cycle, and sex hormone levels were observed. Hematoxylin-Eosin staining was employed to investigate the histological characteristics of the ovaries. To identify the pathways that changed significantly, transcriptome analysis was performed. The protein and mRNA levels of key molecules in ovarian zona pellucida (ZP) organization, transzonal projections (TZPs) assembly, steroid hormone receptors, and steroidogenesis were assessed using phalloidin staining, immunohistochemistry, Western blot, and polymerase chain reaction. RESULTS RNA-seq analysis demonstrated that regulation of hormone secretion, cilium assembly, cell projection assembly, and ZP production may all have crucial impact on the etiology of PCOS and therapeutic effect of JWBZYQ. In particular, PCOS rats exhibited elevated expressions of ZP1-3, which can be reversed by JWBZYQ2 particularly. Simultaneously, TZPs assembly was totally disrupted in PCOS rats, evidenced by the phalloidin staining, upregulated calcium-/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II beta (CaMKIIβ), and deficient p-CaMKIIβ, myosin X (MYO10), proline-rich tyrosine kinase 2 (PTK2), and Fascin. Nonetheless, JWBZYQ or metformin treatment revived the disturbance, repairing the oocyte-granulosa cell communication, regulating steroidogenesis in PCOS rats. In this way, JWBZYQ and metformin exerted remarkable effects in alleviating altered ovarian morphology and function in PCOS rats, with JWBZYQ2 revealing the best effect. CONCLUSIONS JWBZYQ restored the altered ovarian morphology and function by regulating the oocyte-granulosa cell communication, which was related with ZP organization and TZPs assembly in the ovary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Runan Hu
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
| | - Yanjing Huang
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
| | - Yuli Geng
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
| | - Zhuo Liu
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
| | - Fan Li
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
| | - Zhuo Zhang
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
| | - Wenwen Ma
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
| | - Kunkun Song
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
| | - Haoxu Dong
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
| | - Yufan Song
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
| | - Mingmin Zhang
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
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15
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Gokyer D, Akinboro S, Zhou LT, Kleinhans A, Laronda MM, Duncan FE, Riley JK, Goldman KN, Babayev E. The oocyte microenvironment is altered in adolescents compared to oocyte donors. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.04.04.588118. [PMID: 38617323 PMCID: PMC11014529 DOI: 10.1101/2024.04.04.588118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
Study question Are the molecular signatures of cumulus cells (CCs) and follicular fluid (FF) of adolescents undergoing fertility preservation differ from that of reproductively adult oocyte donors? Summary answer The microenvironment immediately surrounding the oocyte, including the CCs and FF, is altered in adolescents undergoing fertility preservation compared to oocyte donors. What is known already Adolescents experience a period of subfecundity following menarche. Recent evidence suggests that this may be at least partially due to increased oocyte aneuploidy. Reproductive juvenescence in mammals is associated with suboptimal oocyte quality. Study design size duration This was a prospective cohort study. Adolescents (10-19 years old, N=23) and oocyte donors (22-30 years old, N=31) undergoing ovarian stimulation and oocyte retrieval at the Northwestern Fertility and Reproductive Medicine Center between November 1, 2020 and May 1, 2023 were enrolled in this study. Participants/materials setting methods Patient demographics, ovarian stimulation, and oocyte retrieval outcomes were collected for all participants. The transcriptome of CCs associated with mature oocytes was compared between adolescents (10-19 years old, n=19), and oocyte donors (22-30 years old, n=19) using bulk RNA-sequencing. FF cytokine profiles (10-19 years old, n=18 vs. 25-30 years old, n=16) were compared using cytokine arrays. Main results and the role of chance RNA-seq analysis revealed 581 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in cumulus cells of adolescents relative to oocyte donors, with 361 genes downregulated and 220 upregulated. Genes enriched in pathways involved in cell cycle and cell division (e.g., GO:1903047, p= 3.5 × 10-43; GO:0051983, p= 4.1 × 10-30; GO:0000281, p= 7.7 × 10-15; GO:0044839, p= 5.3 × 10-13) were significantly downregulated, while genes enriched in several pathways involved in cellular and vesicle organization (e.g., GO:0010256, p= 1.2 × 10-8; GO:0051129, p= 6.8 × 10-7; GO:0016050, p= 7.4 × 10-7; GO:0051640, p= 8.1 × 10-7) were upregulated in CCs of adolescents compared to oocyte donors. The levels of 9 cytokines were significantly increased in FF of adolescents compared to oocyte donors: IL-1 alpha (2-fold), IL-1 beta (1.7-fold), I-309 (2-fold), IL-15 (1.6-fold), TARC (1.9-fold), TPO (2.1-fold), IGFBP-4 (2-fold), IL-12-p40 (1.7-fold) and ENA-78 (1.4-fold). Interestingly, 7 of these cytokines have known pro-inflammatory roles. Importantly, neither the CC transcriptomes or FF cytokine profiles were different in adolescents with or without cancer. Large scale data Original high-throughput sequencing data will be deposited in Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) before publication, and the GEO accession number will be provided here. Limitations reasons for caution This study aims to gain insights into the associated gamete quality by studying the immediate oocyte microenvironment. The direct study of oocytes is more challenging due to sample scarcity, as they are cryopreserved for future use, but will provide a more accurate assessment of oocyte reproductive potential. Wider implications of the findings Understanding the underpinnings of altered immediate oocyte microenvironment of adolescent patients may provide insights into the reproductive potential of the associated gametes in the younger end of the age spectrum. This has implications for the fertility preservation cycles for very young patients. Study funding/competing interests This project was supported by Friends of Prentice organization SP0061324 (M.M.L and E.B.), Gesualdo Family Foundation (Research Scholar: M.M.L.), and NIH/NICHD K12 HD050121 (E.B.). The authors have declared that no conflict of interest exists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dilan Gokyer
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, 60611
| | - Sophia Akinboro
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, 60611
- Weinberg College of Arts and Sciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, 60208
| | - Luhan T. Zhou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, 60611
| | - Anna Kleinhans
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Northwestern Medicine Center for Fertility and Reproductive Medicine, Chicago, IL, 60611
| | - Monica M. Laronda
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, 60611
- Department of Pediatrics, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, 60611
- Stanley Manne Children’s Research Institute, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60611
| | - Francesca E. Duncan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, 60611
| | - Joan K. Riley
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, 60611
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Northwestern Medicine Center for Fertility and Reproductive Medicine, Chicago, IL, 60611
| | - Kara N. Goldman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, 60611
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Northwestern Medicine Center for Fertility and Reproductive Medicine, Chicago, IL, 60611
| | - Elnur Babayev
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, 60611
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Northwestern Medicine Center for Fertility and Reproductive Medicine, Chicago, IL, 60611
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Ren P, Tong X, Li J, Jiang H, Liu S, Li X, Lai M, Yang W, Rong Y, Zhang Y, Jin J, Ma Y, Pan W, Fan HY, Zhang S, Zhang YL. CRL4 DCAF13 E3 ubiquitin ligase targets MeCP2 for degradation to prevent DNA hypermethylation and ensure normal transcription in growing oocytes. Cell Mol Life Sci 2024; 81:165. [PMID: 38578457 PMCID: PMC10997554 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-024-05185-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
The DNA methylation is gradually acquired during oogenesis, a process sustained by successful follicle development. However, the functional roles of methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MeCP2), an epigenetic regulator displaying specifical binding with methylated DNA, remains unknown in oogenesis. In this study, we found MeCP2 protein was highly expressed in primordial and primary follicle, but was almost undetectable in secondary follicles. However, in aged ovary, MeCP2 protein is significantly increased in both oocyte and granulosa cells. Overexpression of MeCP2 in growing oocyte caused transcription dysregulation, DNA hypermethylation, and genome instability, ultimately leading to follicle growth arrest and apoptosis. MeCP2 is targeted by DCAF13, a substrate recognition adaptor of the Cullin 4-RING (CRL4) E3 ligase, and polyubiquitinated for degradation in both cells and oocytes. Dcaf13-null oocyte exhibited an accumulation of MeCP2 protein, and the partial rescue of follicle growth arrest induced by Dcaf13 deletion was observed following MeCP2 knockdown. The RNA-seq results revealed that large amounts of genes were regulated by the DCAF13-MeCP2 axis in growing oocytes. Our study demonstrated that CRL4DCAF13 E3 ubiquitin ligase targets MeCP2 for degradation to ensure normal DNA methylome and transcription in growing oocytes. Moreover, in aged ovarian follicles, deceased DCAF13 and DDB1 protein were observed, indicating a potential novel mechanism that regulates ovary aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peipei Ren
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310016, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiaomei Tong
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310016, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Junjian Li
- College of Life and Environmental Science, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Huifang Jiang
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310016, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Siya Liu
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310016, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiang Li
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310016, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Mengru Lai
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310016, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Weijie Yang
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310016, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yan Rong
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310016, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yingyi Zhang
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310016, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jiamin Jin
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310016, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yerong Ma
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310016, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Weiwei Pan
- Department of Cell Biology, College of Medicine, Jiaxing University, Jiaxing, 314001, China
| | - Heng-Yu Fan
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
- Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Songying Zhang
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310016, China.
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Yin-Li Zhang
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310016, China.
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China.
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Wilson CA, Batzel P, Postlethwait JH. Direct male development in chromosomally ZZ zebrafish. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1362228. [PMID: 38529407 PMCID: PMC10961373 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1362228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024] Open
Abstract
The genetics of sex determination varies across taxa, sometimes even within a species. Major domesticated strains of zebrafish (Danio rerio), including AB and TU, lack a strong genetic sex determining locus, but strains more recently derived from nature, like Nadia (NA), possess a ZZ male/ZW female chromosomal sex-determination system. AB fish pass through a juvenile ovary stage, forming oocytes that survive in fish that become females but die in fish that become males. To understand mechanisms of gonad development in NA zebrafish, we studied histology and single cell transcriptomics in developing ZZ and ZW fish. ZW fish developed oocytes by 22 days post-fertilization (dpf) but ZZ fish directly formed testes, avoiding a juvenile ovary phase. Gonads of some ZW and WW fish, however, developed oocytes that died as the gonad became a testis, mimicking AB fish, suggesting that the gynogenetically derived AB strain is chromosomally WW. Single-cell RNA-seq of 19dpf gonads showed similar cell types in ZZ and ZW fish, including germ cells, precursors of gonadal support cells, steroidogenic cells, interstitial/stromal cells, and immune cells, consistent with a bipotential juvenile gonad. In contrast, scRNA-seq of 30dpf gonads revealed that cells in ZZ gonads had transcriptomes characteristic of testicular Sertoli, Leydig, and germ cells while ZW gonads had granulosa cells, theca cells, and developing oocytes. Hematopoietic and vascular cells were similar in both sex genotypes. These results show that juvenile NA zebrafish initially develop a bipotential gonad; that a factor on the NA W chromosome, or fewer than two Z chromosomes, is essential to initiate oocyte development; and without the W factor, or with two Z doses, NA gonads develop directly into testes without passing through the juvenile ovary stage. Sex determination in AB and TU strains mimics NA ZW and WW zebrafish, suggesting loss of the Z chromosome during domestication. Genetic analysis of the NA strain will facilitate our understanding of the evolution of sex determination mechanisms.
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Faizal AM, Elias MH, Jin NM, Abu MA, Syafruddin SE, Zainuddin AA, Suzuki N, Karim AKA. Unravelling the role of HAS2, GREM1, and PTGS2 gene expression in cumulus cells: implications for human oocyte development competency - a systematic review and integrated bioinformatic analysis. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1274376. [PMID: 38524634 PMCID: PMC10957552 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1274376] [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: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
The leading indicator for successful outcomes in in-vitro fertilization (IVF) is the quality of gametes in oocytes and sperm. Thus, advanced research aims to highlight the parameter in assessing these qualities - DNA fragmentation in sperm and oocyte development capacity (ODC) via evaluation of microenvironments involving its maturation process. Regarding oocytes, most evidence reveals the role of cumulus cells as non-invasive methods in assessing their development competency, mainly via gene expression evaluation. Our review aims to consolidate the evidence of GDF-9 derivatives, the HAS2, GREM1, and PTGS2 gene expression in cumulus cells used as ODC markers in relevant publications and tailored to current IVF outcomes. In addition to that, we also added the bioinformatic analysis in our review to strengthen the evidence aiming for a better understanding of the pathways and cluster of the genes of interest - HAS2, GREM1, and PTGS2 in cumulus cell level. Otherwise, the current non-invasive method can be used in exploring various causes of infertility that may affect these gene expressions at the cumulus cell level. Nevertheless, this method can also be used in assessing the ODC in various cohorts of women or as an improvement of markers following targeted tools or procedures by evaluating the advancement of these gene expressions following the targeted intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad Mohd Faizal
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, National University of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Marjanu Hikmah Elias
- Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia, Nilai, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia
| | - Norazilah Mat Jin
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Jalan Hospital, Sungai Buloh, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Muhammad Azrai Abu
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, National University of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | | | - Ani Amelia Zainuddin
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, National University of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Nao Suzuki
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, St Marianna School of Medicine, Kawasaki, Japan
| | - Abdul Kadir Abdul Karim
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, National University of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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19
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Mehdizadeh A, Soleimani M, Amjadi F, Sene AA, Sheikhha MH, Dehghani A, Ashourzadeh S, Aali BS, Dabiri S, Zandieh Z. Implication of Novel BMP15 and GDF9 Variants in Unexpected Poor Ovarian Response. Reprod Sci 2024; 31:840-850. [PMID: 37848645 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-023-01370-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/19/2023]
Abstract
Unexpected poor ovarian response (UPOR) occurs when nine or fewer oocytes are retrieved from a young patient with normal ovarian reserve. Bone morphogenetic protein15 (BMP15) and growth differentiation factor 9 (GDF9) are two oocyte-specific factors with pivotal role in folliculogenesis. The aim of this study was to assess the relation between BMP15 and GDF9 variants with UPOR. Hundred women aged ≤ 39 with AMH ≥ 1.27 IU/ml participated as UPOR and normal ovarian responders (NOR) based on their oocyte number. Each group consisted of 50 patients. After genomic DNA extraction, the entire exonic regions of BMP15 and GDF9 were amplified and examined by direct sequencing. Western blotting was performed to determine the expression levels of BMP15 and GDF9 in follicular fluid. Additionally, in silico analysis was applied to predict the effect of discovered mutations. From four novel variants of BMP15 and GDF9 genes, silent mutations (c.744 T > C) and (c.99G > A) occurred in both groups, whereas missense variants: c.967-968insA and c.296A > G were found exclusively in UPORs. The latter variants caused reduction in protein expression. Moreover, the mutant allele (T) in a GDF9 polymorphism (C447T) found to be more in NOR individuals (58% NOR vs. 37% UPOR (OR = 2.3, CI 1.32-4.11, p = 0.004).The novel missense mutations which were predicted as damaging, along with other mutations that happened in UPORs might result in ovarian resistance to stimulation. The mutant allele (T) in C447T polymorphism has a protective effect. It can be concluded that there is an association between BMP15 and GDF9 variants and follicular development and ovarian response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anahita Mehdizadeh
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mansoureh Soleimani
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemehsadat Amjadi
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Shahid Akbarabadi Clinical Research Development Unit (ShACRDU), Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Azadeh Akbari Sene
- Shahid Akbarabadi Clinical Research Development Unit (ShACRDU), Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hassan Sheikhha
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Ali Dehghani
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sareh Ashourzadeh
- Afzalipour Clinical Center for Infertility, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Bibi Shahnaz Aali
- FRANZCOG Rockingham Peel Group, South Metropolitan Health Service, Murdoch, Australia
| | - Shahriar Dabiri
- Faculty of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Zahra Zandieh
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
- Shahid Akbarabadi Clinical Research Development Unit (ShACRDU), Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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20
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Weaver AC, Kind KL, Kelly JM, Herde P, van Wettere WHJ. Effect of split weaning on follicle development and oocyte quality in multiparous sows. Anim Reprod Sci 2024; 262:107434. [PMID: 38368653 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2024.107434] [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: 10/07/2023] [Revised: 02/11/2024] [Accepted: 02/11/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
Increasing piglet weaning age while maintaining the reproductive efficiency of the breeding herd depends on being able to stimulate sows to ovulate during lactation without reducing subsequent pregnancy rates and litter sizes. Embryo survival is affected by the quality of the oocytes shed at ovulation, and oocyte quality is profoundly impacted by the follicular environment in which the oocyte matures. This study determined the effect of reducing suckled litter size from 11 to 7 piglets on day 18 of lactation on the ovarian follicular environment and oocyte developmental competence at day 21 of lactation. Thirty-nine, Large White X Landrace sows (parity 3.2 ± 0.2; mean ± SEM; range 2-6) had their litter size either maintained at 11 piglets (control); or reduced to seven piglets on day 18 of lactation (split wean (SW)). Sows were slaughtered on day 21 of lactation and ovaries were collected for analysis of follicular fluid composition and in vitro blastocyst development rates. There was no effect of split weaning on fertilisation rate and development to blastocyst stage; however, a greater proportion of blastocysts from control sows were classified as early blastocyst stage. Furthermore, follicular fluid concentrations of oestradiol were higher in SW sows. Together, these results indicate split weaning prior to mating in lactation alters the ovarian follicular environment and while blastocyst development rates were unaffected, embryos from control sows may be of poorer quality as indicated by a delay in development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice C Weaver
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy Campus, Roseworthy, SA 5371, Australia.
| | - Karen L Kind
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy Campus, Roseworthy, SA 5371, Australia; Robinson Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
| | - Jennifer M Kelly
- South Australian Research and Development Institute, Turretfield Research Centre, Rosedale, SA 5350 Australia
| | - Paul Herde
- South Australian Research and Development Institute, Pig and Poultry Production Institute, University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, SA 5371, Australia
| | - William He J van Wettere
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy Campus, Roseworthy, SA 5371, Australia
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21
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Richani D, Poljak A, Wang B, Mahbub SB, Biazik J, Campbell JM, Habibalahi A, Stocker WA, Marinova MB, Nixon B, Bustamante S, Skerrett-Byrne D, Harrison CA, Goldys E, Gilchrist RB. Oocyte and cumulus cell cooperativity and metabolic plasticity under the direction of oocyte paracrine factors. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2024; 326:E366-E381. [PMID: 38197792 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00148.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024]
Abstract
Mammalian oocytes develop and mature in a mutually dependent relationship with surrounding cumulus cells. The oocyte actively regulates cumulus cell differentiation and function by secreting soluble paracrine oocyte-secreted factors (OSFs). We characterized the molecular mechanisms by which two model OSFs, cumulin and BMP15, regulate oocyte maturation and cumulus-oocyte cooperativity. Exposure to these OSFs during mouse oocyte maturation in vitro altered the proteomic and multispectral autofluorescence profiles of both the oocyte and cumulus cells. In oocytes, cumulin significantly upregulated proteins involved in nuclear function. In cumulus cells, both OSFs elicited marked upregulation of a variety of metabolic processes (mostly anabolic), including lipid, nucleotide, and carbohydrate metabolism, whereas mitochondrial metabolic processes were downregulated. The mitochondrial changes were validated by functional assays confirming altered mitochondrial morphology, respiration, and content while maintaining ATP homeostasis. Collectively, these data demonstrate that cumulin and BMP15 remodel cumulus cell metabolism, instructing them to upregulate their anabolic metabolic processes, while routine cellular functions are minimized in the oocyte during maturation, in preparation for ensuing embryonic development.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Oocyte-secreted factors (OSFs) promote oocyte and cumulus cell cooperativity by altering the molecular composition of both cell types. OSFs downregulate protein catabolic processes and upregulate processes associated with DNA binding, translation, and ribosome assembly in oocytes. In cumulus cells, OSFs alter mitochondrial number, morphology, and function, and enhance metabolic plasticity by upregulating anabolic pathways. Hence, the oocyte via OSFs, instructs cumulus cells to increase metabolic processes on its behalf, thereby subduing oocyte metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dulama Richani
- Fertility & Research Centre, Discipline of Women's Health, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Anne Poljak
- Bioanalytical Mass Spectrometry Facility, Mark Wainwright Analytical Centre, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Baily Wang
- Fertility & Research Centre, Discipline of Women's Health, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Saabah B Mahbub
- ARC Centre of Excellence Centre for Nanoscale Biophotonics, Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Joanna Biazik
- Electron Microscope Unit, Mark Wainwright Analytical Centre, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jared M Campbell
- ARC Centre of Excellence Centre for Nanoscale Biophotonics, Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Abbas Habibalahi
- ARC Centre of Excellence Centre for Nanoscale Biophotonics, Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - William A Stocker
- Department of Physiology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Maria B Marinova
- Fertility & Research Centre, Discipline of Women's Health, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Brett Nixon
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, College of Engineering, Science and Environment, The University of Newcastle, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Sonia Bustamante
- Bioanalytical Mass Spectrometry Facility, Mark Wainwright Analytical Centre, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - David Skerrett-Byrne
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, College of Engineering, Science and Environment, The University of Newcastle, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Craig A Harrison
- Department of Physiology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ewa Goldys
- Electron Microscope Unit, Mark Wainwright Analytical Centre, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Robert B Gilchrist
- Fertility & Research Centre, Discipline of Women's Health, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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22
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Xu Y, Zhou Z, Zhang G, Yang Z, Shi Y, Jiang Z, Liu Y, Chen H, Huang H, Zhang Y, Pan J. Metabolome implies increased fatty acid utilization and histone methylation in the follicles from hyperandrogenic PCOS women. J Nutr Biochem 2024; 125:109548. [PMID: 38104867 DOI: 10.1016/j.jnutbio.2023.109548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
Well-balanced metabolism is essential for the high-quality of oocytes, and metabolic fluctuations of follicular microenvironment potentially encourage functional changes in follicle cells, ultimately impacting the developmental potential of oocytes. Here, the global metabolomic profiles of follicular fluid from PCOS women with ovarian hyperandrogenism and nonhyperandrogenism were depicted by untargeted metabolome and transcriptome. In parallel, functional methods were employed to evaluate the possible impact of dysregulated metabolites on oocyte and embryo development. Our findings demonstrated that PCOS women exhibited distinct metabolic features in follicles, such as the increase in fatty acid utilization and the downregulation in amino acid metabolism. And intrafollicular androgen levels were positively correlated with contents of multiple fatty acids, suggesting androgen as one of the contributing factors to the metabolic abnormalities in PCOS follicles. Moreover, we further demonstrated that elevated levels of α-linolenic acid and H3K27me3 could hinder oocyte maturation, fertilization, and early embryo development. Hopefully, our data serve as a broad resource on the metabolic abnormalities of PCOS follicles, and advances in the relevant knowledge will allow the identification of biomarkers that predict the progression of PCOS and its poor pregnancy outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Xu
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Institute of Reproduction and Development, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Development, Shanghai, China; Research Units of Embryo Original Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No. 2019RU056), Shanghai, China
| | - Zhiyang Zhou
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Institute of Reproduction and Development, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Development, Shanghai, China; Research Units of Embryo Original Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No. 2019RU056), Shanghai, China
| | - Gaochen Zhang
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Institute of Reproduction and Development, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Development, Shanghai, China; Research Units of Embryo Original Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No. 2019RU056), Shanghai, China
| | - Zuwei Yang
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Institute of Reproduction and Development, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Development, Shanghai, China; Research Units of Embryo Original Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No. 2019RU056), Shanghai, China; The International Peace Maternal and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yan Shi
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Institute of Reproduction and Development, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Development, Shanghai, China; Research Units of Embryo Original Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No. 2019RU056), Shanghai, China
| | - Zhaoying Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Ministry of Education), Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Ye Liu
- The International Peace Maternal and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Huixi Chen
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Development, Shanghai, China; Research Units of Embryo Original Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No. 2019RU056), Shanghai, China; The International Peace Maternal and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hefeng Huang
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Institute of Reproduction and Development, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Development, Shanghai, China; Research Units of Embryo Original Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No. 2019RU056), Shanghai, China; The International Peace Maternal and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Ministry of Education), Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Yu Zhang
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Institute of Reproduction and Development, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Development, Shanghai, China; Research Units of Embryo Original Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No. 2019RU056), Shanghai, China.
| | - Jiexue Pan
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Institute of Reproduction and Development, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Development, Shanghai, China; Research Units of Embryo Original Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No. 2019RU056), Shanghai, China; The International Peace Maternal and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Ministry of Education), Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.
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Younis JS, Yakovi S, Perlitz Y, Izhaki I. Proof of concept use of progesterone/estradiol ratio to investigate late follicular progesterone in women with low number of preovulatory follicles. Minerva Endocrinol (Torino) 2024; 49:25-32. [PMID: 33792234 DOI: 10.23736/s2724-6507.21.03328-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of this study was to investigate late follicular progesterone (P) serum levels in women with a low number of preovulatory follicles in the assisted reproductive technologies (ART) setting. METHODS Fifty-five consecutive women having four or fewer preovulatory follicles of >14 mm on the day of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) administration were prospectively evaluated. Spearman correlation tests were performed between serum estradiol (E2) level, serum P level, P/E2 ratio, number of preovulatory follicles, oocytes and embryos. Women enrolled were further divided into two groups in accordance with the P/E2 ratio on the day of hCG administration and compared. RESULTS Serum E2 level correlated positively with P serum level (rs=0.36, P<0.01), number of mature follicles (rs=0.50, P<0.01) and number of oocytes retrieved (rs=0.36, P<0.05), whereas negatively with P/E2 ratio (rs=- 0.68, P<0.01). Likewise, number of preovulatory follicles correlated positively with E2 level (rs=0.50, P<0.01), P level (rs=0.27, P<0.05) and number of oocytes retrieved (rs=0.33, P<0.05), while it correlated negatively with P/E2 ratio (rs=-0.33, P<0.05). Furthermore, women with P/E2 ratio >1 on the day of hCG administration received considerably higher total follicular stimulating hormone (FSH) dosage and achieved significantly lower number of oocytes and embryos as compared to controls. CONCLUSIONS The reverse relationship between number of preovulatory follicles and P/E2 ratio implies that P rise is not only the result of increased steroidogenic activity, but other oocyte-follicle disrupted mechanisms seem to be involved. An exaggerated FSH stimulation appears to disrupt further these mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johnny S Younis
- Unit of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baruch-Padeh Medical Center, Poriya, Israel -
- Azrieili Faculty of Medicine, University of Bar-Ilan, Safed, Israel -
| | - Shiran Yakovi
- Unit of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baruch-Padeh Medical Center, Poriya, Israel
| | - Yuri Perlitz
- Unit of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baruch-Padeh Medical Center, Poriya, Israel
- Azrieili Faculty of Medicine, University of Bar-Ilan, Safed, Israel
| | - Ido Izhaki
- Department of Evolutionary and Environmental Biology, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
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Ju W, Zhao S, Wu H, Yu Y, Li Y, Liu D, Lian F, Xiang S. miR-6881-3p contributes to diminished ovarian reserve by regulating granulosa cell apoptosis by targeting SMAD4. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2024; 22:17. [PMID: 38297261 PMCID: PMC10832098 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-024-01189-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In our previous investigation, we revealed a significant increase in the expression of microRNA-6881-3p (miR-6881-3p) in follicular fluid granulosa cells (GCs) from women with diminished ovarian reserve (DOR) compared to those with normal ovarian reserve (NOR). However, the role of miR-6881-3p in the development of DOR remains poorly understood. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to elucidate the involvement of miR-6881-3p in the regulation of granulosa cells (GCs) function and the pathogenesis of DOR. MATERIALS AND METHODS Initially, we assessed the expression levels of miR-6881-3p in GCs obtained from human follicular fluid in both NOR and DOR cases and explored the correlation between miR-6881-3p expression and clinical outcomes in assisted reproduction technology (ART). Bioinformatic predictions and dual-luciferase reporter assays were employed to identify the target gene of miR-6881-3p. Manipulation of miR-6881-3p expression was achieved through the transfection of KGN cells with miR-6881-3p mimics, inhibitor, and miRNA negative control (NC). Following transfection, we assessed granulosa cell apoptosis and cell cycle progression via flow cytometry and quantified target gene expression through quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and Western blot (WB) analysis. Finally, we examined the correlation between target gene expression levels in GCs from NOR and DOR patients and their association with ART outcomes. RESULTS Our findings revealed elevated miR-6881-3p levels in GCs from DOR patients, which negatively correlated with ovarian reserve function and ART outcomes. We identified a direct binding interaction between miR-6881-3p and the 3'-untranslated region of the SMAD4. Transfection with miR-6881-3p mimics induced apoptosis in KGN cell. Furthermore, miR-6881-3p expression negatively correlated with both mRNA and protein levels of the SMAD4. The mRNA and protein levels of SMAD4 were notably reduced in GCs from DOR patients, and SMAD4 mRNA expression positively correlated with ART outcomes. In addition, the mRNA levels of FSHR, CYP11A1 were notably reduced after transfection with miR-6881-3p mimics in KGN cell, while LHCGR notably increased. The mRNA and protein levels of FSHR, CYP11A1 were notably reduced in GCs from DOR patients, while LHCGR notably increased. CONCLUSION This study underscores the role of miR-6881-3p in directly targeting SMAD4 mRNA, subsequently diminishing granulosa cell viability and promoting apoptosis, and may affect steroid hormone regulation and gonadotropin signal reception in GCs. These findings contribute to our understanding of the pathogenesis of DOR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenhan Ju
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Shuai Zhao
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Haicui Wu
- Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Yi Yu
- Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Yuan Li
- Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Danqi Liu
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Fang Lian
- Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China.
| | - Shan Xiang
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China.
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Leal GR, Oliveira TDA, de Paula Guimarães MP, Correia LFL, Vasconcelos EM, Souza-Fabjan JMG. Lipid modulation during IVM increases the metabolism and improves the cryosurvival of cat oocytes. Theriogenology 2024; 214:33-42. [PMID: 37839095 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2023] [Revised: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023]
Abstract
This study investigated the time course of lipid accumulation during IVM and assessed the role of lipid modulators added during IVM on lipid content, nuclear maturation, oxidative stress, mitochondrial activity, gene expression, and cryosurvival of cat oocytes. First, the lipid content of immature COCs was compared to those subjected to different IVM duration times (24, 28, and 32 h). Then, the lipid content was investigated after the use of different lipid modulators [conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), forskolin (FSK), l-carnitine (LC)]. Subsequently, both the CONTROL group and MIX 18 (CLA+FSK+LC) were compared regarding nuclear maturation, mitochondrial activity, reactive oxygen 19 species (ROS), and glutathione (GSH) levels, to the expression of SDHA, GDF9, BMP15, ZAR-1, 20 PRDX1, SIRT1, and SIRT3 genes (normalized by ACTB and YWHAZ genes); and to vitrification and 21 post-warming viability assessment. When not using any lipid modulator, an increase (P < 0.05) in lipid content could be observed after 28 h of IVM. The MIX group showed the greatest (P < 0.05) reduction in oocyte lipid content after 28 h of IVM. No difference (P > 0.05) was observed in the MII rate in the CONTROL (45%) and MIX (41%) groups and in mitochondrial activity ((1.00 ± 0.35 A U vs 1.19 ± 0.14 A U). Although ROS and GSH levels were higher (P < 0.05) in MIX than in CONTROL, the redox balance (ROS/GSH) was greater (P < 0.05) in the latter (C:1.00 ± 0.20b vs M:0.26 ± 0.06 a A.U). The GDF9, HSP70, PRDX1, and SIRT1 transcripts were downregulated (P < 0.05) in MIX-oocytes, compared to the CONTROL. After vitrification, MIX (74%) presented a higher (P < 0.05) viability compared to control (53%). In conclusion, MIX can reduce the total lipid content and improve viability after cryopreservation, however, it seems to affect the oocyte metabolism in a way that still needs to be better understood in the cat biological model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela Ramos Leal
- Universidade Federal Fluminense (UFF), Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Vital Brazil Filho St., 64, 24230-340, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
| | - Thais de Almeida Oliveira
- Universidade Federal Fluminense (UFF), Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Vital Brazil Filho St., 64, 24230-340, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Mariana Pedrosa de Paula Guimarães
- Universidade Federal Fluminense (UFF), Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Vital Brazil Filho St., 64, 24230-340, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Lucas Francisco Leodido Correia
- Universidade Federal Fluminense (UFF), Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Vital Brazil Filho St., 64, 24230-340, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Erlandia Márcia Vasconcelos
- Universidade Federal Fluminense (UFF), Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Vital Brazil Filho St., 64, 24230-340, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Joanna Maria Gonçalves Souza-Fabjan
- Universidade Federal Fluminense (UFF), Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Vital Brazil Filho St., 64, 24230-340, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
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Pollard CL. Can Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NAD +) and Sirtuins Be Harnessed to Improve Mare Fertility? Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:193. [PMID: 38254361 PMCID: PMC10812544 DOI: 10.3390/ani14020193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Revised: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Years of sire and dam selection based on their pedigree and athletic performance has resulted in a reduction in the reproductive capability of horses. Mare age is considered a major barrier to equine reproduction largely due to an increase in the age at which mares are typically bred following the end of their racing career. Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) and its involvement in the activation of Sirtuins in fertility are an emerging field of study, with the role of NAD+ in oocyte maturation and embryo development becoming increasingly apparent. While assisted reproductive technologies in equine breeding programs are in their infancy compared to other livestock species such as cattle, there is much more to be learnt, from oocyte maturation to early embryo development and beyond in the mare, which are difficult to study given the complexities associated with mare fertility research. This review examines what is already known about the role of NAD+ and Sirtuins in fertility and discusses how NAD+-elevating agents may be used to activate Sirtuin proteins to improve equine breeding and embryo production programs both in vivo and in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charley-Lea Pollard
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Camden, NSW 2570, Australia
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27
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Ersahin A, Celik O, Gungor ND, Celik N, Melil S, Yardim M, Dalkilic S, Ersahin C, Dogukargin E, Celik S, Akkoc RF. Long pentraxin 3 and vitamin D receptor mRNA expression pattern of cumulus granulosa cells isolated from PCOS oocytes at different stages of nuclear maturation. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2024; 22:6. [PMID: 38167474 PMCID: PMC10759607 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-023-01176-5] [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: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A fine-tuned pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory balance in the follicular unit is essential for cumulus expansion and successful ovulation. While the long pentraxin 3 (PTX3) gene is required for the expansion of cumulus cells (CCs), ovulation, resumption of meiosis and fertilization, the vitamin D receptor gene (VDR-X2) is required for intra-follicle redox balance. This study was planned to determine the expression pattern of VDR-X2 and PTX3 mRNA in CCs isolated from germinal vesicle (GV), metaphase I (MI), and metaphase II (MII) oocytes of PCOS patients with ovulatory dysfunction. METHODS The relative expression of CC-PTX3 and CC-VDR-X2 mRNA were evaluated using qRT-PCR in a total of 79 CC samples collected from individual cumulus-oocyte complex of 40 infertile patients (20 PCOS and 20 non-PCOS normal responders) who underwent ovarian stimulation with the GnRH antagonist protocol. RESULTS Relative PTX3 mRNA expressions of CCMI-control and CCMII-control showed 3- and 9-fold significant upregulation compared to CCGV-control, respectively. The relative PTX3 mRNA expression of CCMII-control increased approximately three fold compared to CCMI-control. Compared to CCGV-pcos, a 3-fold increase was noted in the relative PTX3 mRNA expression of CCMI-pcos and an approximately 4-fold increase in the PTX3 mRNA expression of CCMII-pcos. Relative PTX3 mRNA expression values of CCMII-pcos and CCMI-pcos were similar. A 6-fold upregulation of relative PTX3 mRNA and a 4-fold upregulation of VDR-X2 mRNA were detected in CCMII-control compared to CCMII-pcos. CC-VDR-X2 expression patterns of the PCOS and control groups overlapped with the CC-PTX3 pattern. Fertilization rates of the PCOS group exhibiting failed transcript expression were similar to normal responders. CONCLUSION The fact that relative CC-PTX3 and CC-VDR mRNA expression does not increase during the transition from MI to MII stage in PCOS as in normal responders suggests that PTX3 and VDR expression may be defective in cumulus cells of PCOS patients with ovulatory dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aynur Ersahin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Bahcesehir University Goztepe Medicalpark Hospital, Istanbul, 34732, Turkey
| | - Onder Celik
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Private Clinic, Usak, 64000, Turkey.
| | - Nur D Gungor
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Bahcesehir University Goztepe Medicalpark Hospital, Istanbul, 34732, Turkey
| | - Nilufer Celik
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Behcet Uz Children's Hospital, Izmir, 35210, Turkey
| | - Sureyya Melil
- Göztepe Medicalpark Hospital IVF-Unit, Istanbul, 34732, Turkey
| | - Meltem Yardim
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Yerkoy State Hospital, Yozgat, 66900, Turkey
| | - Semih Dalkilic
- Faculty of Science, Department of Biology, Molecular Biology and Genetics Program, Firat University, Elazig, Turkey
| | - Cenk Ersahin
- Bahcesehir University School of Medicine, Istanbul, 34732, Turkey
| | - Ece Dogukargin
- Bahcesehir University School of Medicine, Istanbul, 34732, Turkey
| | - Sudenaz Celik
- Medical Faculty, Sofia University "St. Kliment Ohridski", Sofia, 1407, Bulgaria
| | - Ramazan F Akkoc
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Firat University, Elazig, 34060, Turkey
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28
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Oktay KH, Marin L. Comparison of orthotopic and heterotopic autologous ovarian tissue transplantation outcomes. Fertil Steril 2024; 121:72-79. [PMID: 37839723 PMCID: PMC11073798 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2023.10.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2023] [Revised: 09/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare the outcomes of orthotopic and heterotopic ovarian tissue transplantation (OTT) techniques. DESIGN Mixed prospective-retrospective cohort study. SETTING Academic hospital. PATIENTS A total of 14 recipients of autologous OTT. INTERVENTIONS Of the 14 women, 12 who received orthotopic (n = 6) or heterotopic (n = 6) transplants met the inclusion criteria. All orthotopic transplants and one heterotopic ovarian tissue transplant were performed laparoscopically. Although 5 of the 6 remaining heterotopic transplants were performed subcutaneously under local anesthesia or intravenous sedation, one was performed with robotic assistance. With the exception of one recipient who solely desired restoration of endocrine function, all underwent oocyte retrieval either to cryopreserve oocytes and embryos before the graft function ceased or because they could not otherwise conceive (hysterectomy, radiation damage, and heterotopic transplant). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Primary outcome measures were graft function and longevity, and the number of embryos generated per retrieval. RESULTS The mean age at ovarian tissue harvesting and transplantation was lower in patients with orthotopic vs. heterotopic transplants, although the proportion of transplanted ovarian cortex was lower in heterotopic transplant cases. All grafts restored ovarian endocrine function. Fertilization rates, the number of embryos generated per retrieval, and the mean number of nonarrested embryos were significantly lower in heterotopic OTT. However, time to function and graft longevity were similar between the groups. Although 4 of the 6 women conceived and delivered 7 children among orthotopic ovarian tissue recipients, one recipient had 3 spontaneous live births after heterotopic OTT, presumably because of the induction of function in the remaining menopausal ovary. CONCLUSIONS It appears that orthotopic OTT results in higher gamete and embryo quality. However, the endocrine function restoration rate and longevity are similar between the 2 approaches. When feasible, orthotopic OTT should be preferred for those who intend to conceive, although a less invasive heterotopic OTT can be performed for those who primarily desire ovarian endocrine function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kutluk H Oktay
- Laboratory of Molecular Reproduction and Fertility Preservation, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut; Innovation Fertility Preservation and IVF, New York, New York.
| | - Loris Marin
- Laboratory of Molecular Reproduction and Fertility Preservation, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut; Department of Women's and Children's Health, University of Padua, Padua, Province of Padua, Italy
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29
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He Y, Yin R. The reproductive and transgenerational toxicity of microplastics and nanoplastics: A threat to mammalian fertility in both sexes. J Appl Toxicol 2024; 44:66-85. [PMID: 37382358 DOI: 10.1002/jat.4510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Revised: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) are extensively distributed in the environment. However, a comprehensive review and in-depth discussion on the effects of MPs and NPs to reproductive capacity and transgenerational toxicity on mammals, especially on humans, is lacked. It is suggested that microplastics and nanoplastics could accumulate in mammalian reproductive organs and exert toxic effects on the reproductive system for both sexes. For males, the damage of microplastics consists of abnormal testicular and sperm structure, decreased sperm vitality, and endocrine disruption, which were caused by oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis of testicular cells, autophagy, abnormal cytoskeleton, and abnormal hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular axis. For females, the damage of microplastics includes abnormal ovary and uterus structure and endocrine disruption, which were caused by oxidative stress, inflammation, granulosa cell apoptosis, hypothalamic-pituitary-ovary axis abnormalities, and tissue fibrosis. For transgenerational toxicity, premature mortality existed in the rodent offspring after maternal exposure to microplastics. Among the surviving offspring, metabolic disorders, reproductive dysfunction, immune, neurodevelopmental, and cognitive disorders were detected, and these events directly correlated with transgenerational translocation of MPs and NPs. Studies on human-derived cells or organoids demonstrated that transgenerational toxicity studies for both sexes are yet in the phase of exploring suitable experimental models, and more detailed research on the threat of MPs and NPs to human fertility is still urgently needed. Further studies will help assess the MPs and NPs threat to public fertility and reproductive health risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuchong He
- Queen Mary School, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China
- The Key Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology and Pathology of Jiangxi Provincial, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Ruocheng Yin
- Queen Mary School, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China
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30
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Esbert M, García C, Cutts G, Lara-Molina E, Garrido N, Ballestros A, Scott RT, Seli E, Wells D. Oocyte rescue in-vitro maturation does not adversely affect chromosome segregation during the first meiotic division. Reprod Biomed Online 2024; 48:103379. [PMID: 37919136 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2023.103379] [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: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Does rescue in-vitro maturation (IVM) in the presence or absence of cumulus cells, affect the progress of meiosis I, compared with oocytes that mature in vivo? DESIGN This prospective study was conducted in a university-affiliated fertility centre. Ninety-five young oocyte donors (mean age 25.57 ± 4.47) with a normal karyotype and no known fertility problems were included. A total of 390 oocytes (116 mature metaphase II [MII] and 274 immature oocytes) were analysed. The immature oocytes underwent rescue IVM in the presence of cumulus cells (CC; IVM+CC; n = 137) or without them (IVM-CC; n = 137), and IVM rate was calculated. Chromosome copy number analysis using next-generation sequencing (NGS) was performed on all rescue IVM oocytes reaching MII as well as those that were mature at the time of initial denudation (in-vivo-matured oocytes [IVO]). RESULTS Maturation rates were similar in IVM+CC and IVM-CC oocytes (62.8 versus 71.5%, P = 0.16). Conclusive cytogenetic results were obtained from 65 MII oocytes from the IVM+CC group, 87 from the IVM-CC group, and 99 from the IVO group. Oocyte euploidy rates for the three groups were similar, at 75.4%, 83.9% and 80.8%, respectively (P = 0.42). CONCLUSIONS The results suggest that culture of germinal vesicle and metaphase I oocytes in the presence of cumulus cells does not improve rates of IVM. In general, the process of rescue IVM does not appear to alter the frequency of oocytes with a normal chromosome copy number.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marga Esbert
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVI Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Cristina García
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVI Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | | | - Nicolás Garrido
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | | | - Richard T Scott
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, RMA New Jersey, NJ, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Emre Seli
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, RMA New Jersey, NJ, USA; Department of obstetrics, gynecology and reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Dagan Wells
- Juno Genetics, Oxford Science Park, Oxford, UK; Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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Wilson CA, Batzel P, Postlethwait JH. Direct Male Development in Chromosomally ZZ Zebrafish. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.12.27.573483. [PMID: 38234788 PMCID: PMC10793451 DOI: 10.1101/2023.12.27.573483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
The genetics of sex determination varies across taxa, sometimes even within a species. Major domesticated strains of zebrafish ( Danio rerio ), including AB and TU, lack a strong genetic sex determining locus, but strains more recently derived from nature, like Nadia (NA), possess a ZZ male/ZW female chromosomal sex-determination system. AB strain fish pass through a juvenile ovary stage, forming oocytes that survive in fish that become females but die in fish that become males. To understand mechanisms of gonad development in NA zebrafish, we studied histology and single cell transcriptomics in developing ZZ and ZW fish. ZW fish developed oocytes by 22 days post-fertilization (dpf) but ZZ fish directly formed testes, avoiding a juvenile ovary phase. Gonads of some ZW and WW fish, however, developed oocytes that died as the gonad became a testis, mimicking AB fish, suggesting that the gynogenetically derived AB strain is chromosomally WW. Single-cell RNA-seq of 19dpf gonads showed similar cell types in ZZ and ZW fish, including germ cells, precursors of gonadal support cells, steroidogenic cells, interstitial/stromal cells, and immune cells, consistent with a bipotential juvenile gonad. In contrast, scRNA-seq of 30dpf gonads revealed that cells in ZZ gonads had transcriptomes characteristic of testicular Sertoli, Leydig, and germ cells while ZW gonads had granulosa cells, theca cells, and developing oocytes. Hematopoietic and vascular cells were similar in both sex genotypes. These results show that juvenile NA zebrafish initially develop a bipotential gonad; that a factor on the NA W chromosome or fewer than two Z chromosomes is essential to initiate oocyte development; and without the W factor or with two Z doses, NA gonads develop directly into testes without passing through the juvenile ovary stage. Sex determination in AB and TU strains mimics NA ZW and WW zebrafish, suggesting loss of the Z chromosome during domestication. Genetic analysis of the NA strain will facilitate our understanding of the evolution of sex determination mechanisms.
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McKinley E, Speckhart SL, Keane JA, Oliver MA, Rhoads ML, Edwards JL, Biase FH, Ealy AD. Influences of Supplementing Selective Members of the Interleukin-6 Cytokine Family on Bovine Oocyte Competency. Animals (Basel) 2023; 14:44. [PMID: 38200775 PMCID: PMC10778514 DOI: 10.3390/ani14010044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
This work explored whether supplementing selective members of the interleukin-6 (IL6) cytokine family during in vitro bovine oocyte maturation affects maturation success, cumulus-oocyte complex (COC) gene expression, fertilization success, and embryo development potential. Human recombinant proteins for IL6, IL11, and leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) were supplemented to COCs during the maturation period, then fertilization and embryo culture commenced without further cytokine supplementation. The first study determined that none of these cytokines influenced the rate that oocytes achieved arrest at meiosis II. The second study identified that LIF and IL11 supplementation increases AREG transcript abundance. Supplementation with IL6 supplementation did not affect AREG abundance but reduced HAS2 transcript abundance. Several other transcriptional markers of oocyte competency were not affected by any of the cytokines. The third study determined that supplementing these cytokines during maturation did not influence fertilization success, but either LIF or IL11 supplementation increased blastocyst development. No effect of IL6 supplementation on subsequent blastocyst development was detected. The fourth experiment explored whether each cytokine treatment affects the post-thaw survivability of cryopreserved IVP blastocysts. None of the cytokines supplemented during oocyte maturation produced any positive effects on post-thaw blastocyst re-expansion and hatching. In conclusion, these outcomes implicate IL11 and LIF as potentially useful supplements for improving bovine oocyte competency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Endya McKinley
- School of Animal Sciences, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA; (E.M.); (S.L.S.); (J.A.K.); (M.A.O.); (M.L.R.); (F.H.B.)
| | - Savannah L. Speckhart
- School of Animal Sciences, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA; (E.M.); (S.L.S.); (J.A.K.); (M.A.O.); (M.L.R.); (F.H.B.)
| | - Jessica A. Keane
- School of Animal Sciences, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA; (E.M.); (S.L.S.); (J.A.K.); (M.A.O.); (M.L.R.); (F.H.B.)
| | - Mary A. Oliver
- School of Animal Sciences, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA; (E.M.); (S.L.S.); (J.A.K.); (M.A.O.); (M.L.R.); (F.H.B.)
| | - Michelle L. Rhoads
- School of Animal Sciences, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA; (E.M.); (S.L.S.); (J.A.K.); (M.A.O.); (M.L.R.); (F.H.B.)
| | - J. Lannett Edwards
- Department of Animal Science, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA;
| | - Fernando H. Biase
- School of Animal Sciences, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA; (E.M.); (S.L.S.); (J.A.K.); (M.A.O.); (M.L.R.); (F.H.B.)
| | - Alan D. Ealy
- School of Animal Sciences, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA; (E.M.); (S.L.S.); (J.A.K.); (M.A.O.); (M.L.R.); (F.H.B.)
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Swinerd GW, Alhussini AA, Sczelecki S, Heath D, Mueller TD, McNatty KP, Pitman JL. Molecular forms of BMP15 and GDF9 in mammalian species that differ in litter size. Sci Rep 2023; 13:22428. [PMID: 38104237 PMCID: PMC10725505 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-49852-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Bone morphogenetic protein (BMP15) and growth differentiation factor (GDF9) are critical for ovarian follicular development and fertility and are associated with litter size in mammals. These proteins initially exist as pre-pro-mature proteins, that are subsequently cleaved into biologically active forms. Thus, the molecular forms of GDF9 and BMP15 may provide the key to understanding the differences in litter size determination in mammals. Herein, we compared GDF9 and BMP15 forms in mammals with high (pigs) and low to moderate (sheep) and low (red deer) ovulation-rate. In all species, oocyte lysates and secretions contained both promature and mature forms of BMP15 and GDF9. Whilst promature and mature GDF9 levels were similar between species, deer produced more BMP15 and exhibited, together with sheep, a higher promature:mature BMP15 ratio. N-linked glycosylation was prominant in proregion and mature GDF9 and in proregion BMP15 of pigs, and present in proregion GDF9 of sheep. There was no evidence of secreted native homo- or hetero-dimers although a GDF9 dimer in red deer oocyte lysate was detected. In summary, GDF9 appeared to be equally important in all species regardless of litter size, whilst BMP15 levels were highest in strict monovulatory species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gene W Swinerd
- School of Biological Sciences, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Abdulaziz A Alhussini
- School of Biological Sciences, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Sarah Sczelecki
- School of Biological Sciences, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Derek Heath
- School of Biological Sciences, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Thomas D Mueller
- Department of Plant Physiology and Biophysics, Julius-Von-Sachs Institute of the University Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Kenneth P McNatty
- School of Biological Sciences, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Janet L Pitman
- School of Biological Sciences, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand.
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Liu J, Zhang J, Zheng Y, Zhao G, Jiang H, Yuan B. miR-302d Targeting of CDKN1A Regulates DNA Damage and Steroid Hormone Secretion in Bovine Cumulus Cells. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:2195. [PMID: 38137018 PMCID: PMC10743266 DOI: 10.3390/genes14122195] [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: 11/08/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: DNA damage in cumulus cells hinders oocyte maturation and affects steroid hormone secretion. It is crucial to identify the key factors that regulate cellular DNA damage and steroid hormone secretion. (2) Methods: Treatment of bovine cumulus cells with bleomycin to induce DNA damage. The effects of DNA damage on cell biology were determined by detecting changes in DNA damage degree, cell cycle, viability, apoptosis, and steroid hormones. It was verified that mir-302d targeted regulation of CDKN1A expression, and then affected DNA damage and steroid hormone secretion in cumulus cells. (3) Results: Bleomycin induced increased DNA damage, decreased G1-phase cells, increased S-phase cells, inhibited proliferation, promoted apoptosis, affected E2 and P4 secretion, increased CDKN1A expression, and decreased miR-302d expression. Knockdown of CDKN1A reduced DNA damage, increased G1-phase cells, decreased G2-phase cells, promoted proliferation, inhibited apoptosis, increased E2 and P4 secretion, and increased the expression of BRCA1, MRE11, ATM, CDK1, CDK2, CCNE2, STAR, CYP11A1, and HSD3B1. The expression of RAD51, CCND1, p53, and FAS was decreased. Overexpression of CDKN1A resulted in the opposite results. miR-302d targets CDKN1A expression to regulate DNA damage and then affects the cell cycle, proliferation, apoptosis, steroid hormone secretion, and the expression of related genes. (4) Conclusions: miR-302d and CDKN1A were candidate molecular markers for the diagnosis of DNA damage in bovine cumulus cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianbo Liu
- Department of Laboratory Animals, College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China; (J.L.); (J.Z.); (G.Z.); (H.J.)
- Experimental Testing Center, Jilin Agricultural Science and Technology University, Jilin 132101, China
| | - Jiabao Zhang
- Department of Laboratory Animals, College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China; (J.L.); (J.Z.); (G.Z.); (H.J.)
| | - Yi Zheng
- Department of Laboratory Animals, College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China; (J.L.); (J.Z.); (G.Z.); (H.J.)
| | - Guokun Zhao
- Department of Laboratory Animals, College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China; (J.L.); (J.Z.); (G.Z.); (H.J.)
| | - Hao Jiang
- Department of Laboratory Animals, College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China; (J.L.); (J.Z.); (G.Z.); (H.J.)
| | - Bao Yuan
- Department of Laboratory Animals, College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China; (J.L.); (J.Z.); (G.Z.); (H.J.)
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Herta AC, von Mengden L, Akin N, Billooye K, Coucke W, Cava-Cami B, Klamt F, Smitz J, Anckaert E. Glucose and redox metabolism in meiotically blocked in vitro grown mouse antral follicles. J Assist Reprod Genet 2023; 40:2851-2863. [PMID: 37776437 PMCID: PMC10656403 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-023-02940-7] [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: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/02/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Glucose and redox metabolism characterization in mouse antral follicles with meiotically blocked oocytes, after in vitro follicle culture (IFC) from the early secondary stage. METHODS Following IFC (10 days), oocytes, corresponding cumulus (CC), and granulosa cells (GC) were collected from antral follicles: (i) on day 9-immature, germinal vesicle (GV) stage; (ii) on day 10, after hCG/EGF stimulation-mature, metaphase II (MII) stage and meiotically blocked (MB) immature GV stage. The metabolic profiles of all samples (GV, MII, and MB) were compared by measuring changes in metabolites involved in glycolysis, tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle, pentose phosphate pathway (PPP), and redox activity via enzymatic spectrophotometric assays in each cell type. RESULTS Within MB follicles, GCs drive higher levels of glycolysis and lactic acid fermentation (LAF) while oocytes exert more PPP activity. MB-oocytes had significantly larger diameters compared to day 9 GVs. MB follicles revealed limited metabolic changes in the somatic compartment compared to their GV counterparts (before stimulation). MB-CCs showed increased aconitase and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase activities with lower malate levels comparted to GV-CCs. MB and MII in vitro grown follicles displayed comparable metabolic profiles, suggesting culture induces metabolic exhaustion regardless of the maturation stage. CONCLUSIONS Current results suggest that in addition to impaired nuclear maturation, metabolic disruption is present in MB follicles. MB follicles either compensate with high levels of TCA cycle and PPP activities in CCs, or are unable to drive proper levels of aerobic metabolism, which might be due to the current culture conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anamaria-Cristina Herta
- Follicle Biology Laboratory (FOBI), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) Jette Campus, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090, Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Lucia von Mengden
- Laboratory of Cellular Biochemistry, Department of Biochemistry, ICBS, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), (RS), Porto Alegre, 90035003, Brazil
| | - Nazli Akin
- Follicle Biology Laboratory (FOBI), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) Jette Campus, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Katy Billooye
- Follicle Biology Laboratory (FOBI), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) Jette Campus, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Wim Coucke
- Freelance statistician, Brugstraat 107, 3001, Heverlee, Belgium
| | - Berta Cava-Cami
- Follicle Biology Laboratory (FOBI), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) Jette Campus, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Fábio Klamt
- Laboratory of Cellular Biochemistry, Department of Biochemistry, ICBS, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), (RS), Porto Alegre, 90035003, Brazil
| | - Johan Smitz
- Follicle Biology Laboratory (FOBI), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) Jette Campus, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Ellen Anckaert
- Follicle Biology Laboratory (FOBI), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) Jette Campus, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090, Brussels, Belgium
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Liang Y, Xu ML, Gao X, Wang Y, Zhang LN, Li YC, Guo Q. Resveratrol improves ovarian state by inhibiting apoptosis of granulosa cells. Gynecol Endocrinol 2023; 39:2181652. [PMID: 36824010 DOI: 10.1080/09513590.2023.2181652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM Among the natural polyphenolic compounds, resveratrol (RES) is known for reducing the effects of declining reproductive power through resisting senility, anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory, while the molecular mechanism of RES in human ovaries is unclear. We aimed to evaluate the most likely mechanisms of RES against apoptosis induced by H2O2 in human ovary granulosa cells. METHODS Ovarian granulosa cells from infertile women (≤35 years old) were collected. Those patients defined as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), poor ovarian responder (POR) and Endometriosis were excluded. Then they were randomly divided into control group, model group and the treatment group. Cellular apoptosis was analyzed by flow cytometer method. The related protein and mRNA expressions were detected by western blot and RT-PCR. RESULTS Apoptosis rates of the treatment group containing RES with concentrations of 1 μM and 10 μM were significantly decreased (p < 0.001). Western blot results demonstrated that the proteins levels of transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), Bax and Caspase 9 were decreased, and Bcl-2 was increased under RES treatment, while the protein levels of Caspase 8, Caspase 3, growth differentiation factor 9 (GDF9) and bone morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP15) expressed no significant difference. The results by RT-PCR of follicle and ovarian development related mRNA factors were consistent with that of western blot assay. CONCLUSION In conclusion, the present study provides the evidence that RES may affects apoptotic factors to protect human ovarian state.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Liang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The Fourth Hospital of Shijiazhuang, (Affiliated Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Hebei Medical University), Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Mei-Ling Xu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The Fourth Hospital of Shijiazhuang, (Affiliated Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Hebei Medical University), Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Xing Gao
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The Fourth Hospital of Shijiazhuang, (Affiliated Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Hebei Medical University), Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Yan Wang
- North China University of Science and Technology Affiliated Hospital, Tangshan, Hebei, China
| | - Li-Nan Zhang
- Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, Hebei Medicine University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Ya-Cong Li
- Hebei Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Qing Guo
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The Fourth Hospital of Shijiazhuang, (Affiliated Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Hebei Medical University), Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
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37
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Krysta-Matter AE, Riepsamen AH, Lien S, Wong WYT, Richani D, Kilani S, Harrison CA, Mallitt KA, Ledger WL, Robertson DM, Gilchrist RB. Application of specific ELISAs for BMP15 and GDF9 to cumulus cell extracts from infertile women. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2023; 578:112049. [PMID: 37666445 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2023.112049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Revised: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023]
Abstract
Bone morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP15) and growth differentiation factor 9 (GDF9) are oocyte-specific paracrine factors which regulate ovarian cumulus cell (CC) functions. This study aimed to investigate if BMP15 and GDF9 bound to CCs can be characterized, quantified, and show an association with IVF outcomes in infertile women. BMP15 and GDF9 ELISAs were validated and applied to discarded CC extracts. Pooled CCs from individual patients were collected from 120 (cohort 1; BMP15 only) and 81 infertility patients (cohort 2; BMP15 and GDF9) undergoing superovulation. BMP15 and GDF9 levels expressed per CC DNA were correlated with maternal age, clinical and embryology data. Total BMP15 and GDF9 were highly correlated with each other (r = 0.9, p < 0.001). The GDF9:BMP15 ratio was unrelated to oocyte number or age. BMP15/CC DNA and GDF9/CC DNA were unaffected by the type of superovulation and were not related to oocyte/embryo outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- A E Krysta-Matter
- Fertility & Research Centre, Discipline of Women's Health, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, New South Wales, 2052, Australia; IVF Australia, Virtus Health, Alexandria, New South Wales, 2035, Australia
| | - A H Riepsamen
- Fertility & Research Centre, Discipline of Women's Health, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, New South Wales, 2052, Australia
| | - S Lien
- Fertility & Research Centre, Discipline of Women's Health, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, New South Wales, 2052, Australia
| | - W Y T Wong
- Fertility & Research Centre, Discipline of Women's Health, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, New South Wales, 2052, Australia
| | - D Richani
- Fertility & Research Centre, Discipline of Women's Health, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, New South Wales, 2052, Australia
| | - S Kilani
- Fertility & Research Centre, Discipline of Women's Health, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, New South Wales, 2052, Australia; IVF Australia, Virtus Health, Alexandria, New South Wales, 2035, Australia
| | - C A Harrison
- Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Victoria, 3800, Australia
| | - K A Mallitt
- Fertility & Research Centre, Discipline of Women's Health, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, New South Wales, 2052, Australia; Centre for Big Data Research in Health, University of New South Wales Sydney, New South Wales, 2052, Australia
| | - W L Ledger
- Fertility & Research Centre, Discipline of Women's Health, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, New South Wales, 2052, Australia; IVF Australia, Virtus Health, Alexandria, New South Wales, 2035, Australia
| | - D M Robertson
- Fertility & Research Centre, Discipline of Women's Health, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, New South Wales, 2052, Australia
| | - R B Gilchrist
- Fertility & Research Centre, Discipline of Women's Health, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, New South Wales, 2052, Australia.
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Shi Y, Guo Y, Zhou J, Cui G, Cheng J, Wu Y, Zhao Y, Fang L, Han X, Yang Y, Sun Y. A spatiotemporal gene expression and cell atlases of the developing rat ovary. Cell Prolif 2023; 56:e13516. [PMID: 37309718 PMCID: PMC10693188 DOI: 10.1111/cpr.13516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Revised: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Normal ovarian development is necessary for the production of healthy oocytes. However, the characteristics of oocytes development at different stages and the regulatory relationship between oocytes and somatic cells remain to be fully explained. Here, we combined scRNA-seq and spatial transcriptomic sequencing to profile the transcriptomic atlas of developing ovarian of the rat. We identified four components from developing granulosa cells including cumulus, primitive, mural, and luteal cells, and constructed their differential transcriptional regulatory networks. Several novel growth signals from oocytes to cumulus cells were identified, such as JAG1-NOTCH2 and FGF9-FGFR2. Moreover, we observed three cumulus sequential phases during follicle development determined by the key transcriptional factors in each cumulus phase (Bckaf1, Gata6, Cebpb, etc.), as well as the potential pinpointed roles of macrophages in luteal regression. Altogether, the single-cell spatial transcriptomic profile of the ovary provides not only a new research dimension for temporal and spatial analysis of ovary development, but also valuable data resources and a research basis for in-depth excavation of the mechanisms of mammalian ovary development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Shi
- Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, Center for Reproductive MedicineThe First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou UniversityZhengzhouChina
- Academy of medical sciencesZhengzhou UniversityZhengzhouChina
| | - Yanjie Guo
- Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, Center for Reproductive MedicineThe First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou UniversityZhengzhouChina
| | - Jiayi Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Genomic and Precision Medicine, Collaborative Innovation Center of Genetics and Development, College of Future Technology, Beijing Institute of GenomicsChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- China National Center for BioinformationBeijingChina
- University of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Guanshen Cui
- Key Laboratory of Genomic and Precision Medicine, Collaborative Innovation Center of Genetics and Development, College of Future Technology, Beijing Institute of GenomicsChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- China National Center for BioinformationBeijingChina
| | - Jung‐Chien Cheng
- Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, Center for Reproductive MedicineThe First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou UniversityZhengzhouChina
| | - Ying Wu
- Key Laboratory of Genomic and Precision Medicine, Collaborative Innovation Center of Genetics and Development, College of Future Technology, Beijing Institute of GenomicsChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- China National Center for BioinformationBeijingChina
- University of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Yong‐Liang Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Genomic and Precision Medicine, Collaborative Innovation Center of Genetics and Development, College of Future Technology, Beijing Institute of GenomicsChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- China National Center for BioinformationBeijingChina
- University of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Lanlan Fang
- Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, Center for Reproductive MedicineThe First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou UniversityZhengzhouChina
| | - Xiao Han
- Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, Center for Reproductive MedicineThe First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou UniversityZhengzhouChina
- Key Laboratory of Genomic and Precision Medicine, Collaborative Innovation Center of Genetics and Development, College of Future Technology, Beijing Institute of GenomicsChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- China National Center for BioinformationBeijingChina
| | - Yun‐Gui Yang
- Key Laboratory of Genomic and Precision Medicine, Collaborative Innovation Center of Genetics and Development, College of Future Technology, Beijing Institute of GenomicsChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- China National Center for BioinformationBeijingChina
- University of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- Institute of Stem Cell and RegenerationChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Yingpu Sun
- Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, Center for Reproductive MedicineThe First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou UniversityZhengzhouChina
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Hu Y, Zhang R, Zhang S, Ji Y, Zhou Q, Leng L, Meng F, Gong F, Lu G, Lin G, Hu L. Transcriptomic profiles reveal the characteristics of oocytes and cumulus cells at GV, MI, and MII in follicles before ovulation. J Ovarian Res 2023; 16:225. [PMID: 37993893 PMCID: PMC10664256 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-023-01291-2] [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: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The oocyte and its surrounding cumulus cells (CCs) exist as an inseparable entity. The maturation of the oocyte relies on communication between the oocyte and the surrounding CCs. However, oocyte evaluation is primarily based on morphological parameters currently, which offer limited insight into the quality and competence of the oocyte. Here, we conducted transcriptomic profiling of oocytes and their CCs from 47 patients undergoing preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A). We aimed to investigate the molecular events occurring between oocytes and CCs at different stages of oocyte maturation (germinal vesicle [GV], metaphase I [MI], and metaphase II [MII]). Our goal is to provide new insights into in vitro oocyte maturation (IVM). RESULTS Our findings indicate that oocyte maturation is a complex and dynamic process and that MI oocytes can be further classified into two distinct subtypes: GV-like-MI oocytes and MII-like-MI oocytes. Human oocytes and cumulus cells at three different stages of maturation were analyzed using RNA-seq, which revealed unique transcriptional machinery, stage-specific genes and pathways, and transcription factor networks that displayed developmental stage-specific expression patterns. We have also identified that both lipid and cholesterol metabolism in cumulus cells is active during the late stage of oocyte maturation. Lipids may serve as a more efficient energy source for oocytes and even embryogenesis. CONCLUSIONS Overall, our study provides a relatively comprehensive overview of the transcriptional characteristics and potential interactions between human oocytes and cumulus cells at various stages of maturation before ovulation. This study may offer novel perspectives on IVM and provide a reliable reference data set for understanding the transcriptional regulation of follicular maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yena Hu
- Institute of Reproductive and Stems Cell Engineering, NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Xiangya Road 88#, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Ran Zhang
- Institute of Reproductive and Stems Cell Engineering, NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Xiangya Road 88#, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Shuoping Zhang
- Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-XIANGYA, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
| | - Yaxing Ji
- Institute of Reproductive and Stems Cell Engineering, NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Xiangya Road 88#, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Qinwei Zhou
- Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-XIANGYA, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
| | - Lizhi Leng
- Institute of Reproductive and Stems Cell Engineering, NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Xiangya Road 88#, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
- Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-XIANGYA, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
- Hunan International Scientific and Technological Cooperation Base of Development and Carcinogenesis, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
| | - Fei Meng
- Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-XIANGYA, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
| | - Fei Gong
- Institute of Reproductive and Stems Cell Engineering, NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Xiangya Road 88#, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
- Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-XIANGYA, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
| | - Guangxiu Lu
- Institute of Reproductive and Stems Cell Engineering, NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Xiangya Road 88#, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
- Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-XIANGYA, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
- National Engineering and Research Center of Human Stem Cells, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
| | - Ge Lin
- Institute of Reproductive and Stems Cell Engineering, NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Xiangya Road 88#, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China.
- Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-XIANGYA, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China.
- Hunan International Scientific and Technological Cooperation Base of Development and Carcinogenesis, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China.
- National Engineering and Research Center of Human Stem Cells, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China.
| | - Liang Hu
- Institute of Reproductive and Stems Cell Engineering, NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Xiangya Road 88#, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China.
- Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-XIANGYA, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China.
- Hunan International Scientific and Technological Cooperation Base of Development and Carcinogenesis, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China.
- Hunan Normal University School of Medicine, ChangshaHunan, 410013, China.
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Das M, Son WY. In vitro maturation (IVM) of human immature oocytes: is it still relevant? Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2023; 21:110. [PMID: 37993914 PMCID: PMC10664544 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-023-01162-x] [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: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023] Open
Abstract
In vitro maturation (IVM) of human immature oocytes has been shown to be a viable option for patients at risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), those seeking urgent fertility preservation and in circumstances where controlled ovarian stimulation is not feasible. Moreover, IVM techniques can be combined with ovarian tissue cryobanking to increase the chances of conception in cancer survivors. The clinical applications of IVM in the field of reproductive medicine are rapidly expanding and the technique is now classified as non-experimental. In contrast to conventional IVF (in vitro fertilization), IVM offers several advantages, such as reduced gonadotropin stimulation, minimal risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), reduced treatment times and lower costs. However, the technical expertise involved in performing IVM and its lower success rates compared to traditional IVF cycles, still pose significant challenges. Despite recent advances, such as innovative biphasic IVM systems, IVM is still an evolving technique and research is ongoing to refine protocols and identify techniques to improve its efficiency and effectiveness. A comprehensive understanding of the distinct mechanisms of oocyte maturation is crucial for obtaining more viable oocytes through in vitro methods, which will in turn lead to significantly improved success rates. In this review, the present state of human IVM programs and future research directions will be discussed, aiming to promote a better understanding of IVM and identify potential strategies to improve the overall efficiency and success rates of IVM programs, which will in turn lead to better clinical outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mausumi Das
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Queen Charlotte and Hammersmith Hospitals, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
- Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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Shu C, Yu Y, Xiaopan Chen, Guo J, Zhou Y, Wu D, Yang T, Fan Y, Huang Q, Shu J. Three-dimensional architecture of granulosa cell derived from oocyte cumulus complex, revealed by FIB-SEM. J Ovarian Res 2023; 16:213. [PMID: 37946316 PMCID: PMC10633969 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-023-01298-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The oocyte cumulus complex is mainly composed of an oocyte, the perivitelline space, zona pellucida and numerous granulosa cells. The cumulus granulosa cells (cGCs) provide a particularly important microenvironment for oocyte development, regulating its growth, maturation and meiosis. In this study, we studied the internal structures and cell-to-cell connections of mouse cGCs using focused ion beam scanning electron microscopy (FIB-SEM). We reconstructed three-dimensional models to display characteristic connections between the oocyte and cGCs, and to illustrate various main organelles in cGCs together with their interaction relationship. A special form of cilium identified in granulosa cell was never reported in previous literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chongyi Shu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, China
| | - Yiqi Yu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiaopan Chen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, China
- Department of Genetic and Genomic Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, (Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, China
| | - Jiansheng Guo
- School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Yier Zhou
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, China
| | - Dandan Wu
- Department of Obstetrics, Zhejiang Hospital, Hangzhou, 310012, China
| | - Tianyun Yang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, China
| | - Yuhang Fan
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, China
| | - Qiongxiao Huang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, China.
| | - Jing Shu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, China.
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Braga DPAF, Setti A, Morishima C, Provenza RR, Iaconelli A, Borges E. The effect of sperm DNA fragmentation on ICSI outcomes depending on oocyte quality. Andrology 2023; 11:1682-1693. [PMID: 37004191 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Revised: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sperm deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) fragmentation is commonly encountered in spermatozoa, and the oocyte assumes responsibility for repairing sperm DNA fragmentation during the oocyte-embryo transition. OBJECTIVES This study aimed to investigate whether the effect of sperm DNA fragmentation on intracytoplasmic sperm injection outcomes depends on the incidence of oocyte dimorphisms. MATERIALS AND METHODS For the present cohort, 2942 fertilized oocytes from 525 patients submitted to intracytoplasmic sperm injection cycles were assessed. The present study was conducted in a private in vitro fertilization center affiliated to a university from June 2016 to July 2019. Semen samples were divided into the following two groups depending on the sperm DNA fragmentation index: a low fragmentation index group (<30% sperm DNA fragmentation, n = 1468) and a high fragmentation index group (≥30% sperm DNA fragmentation, n = 486). In addition, mature oocytes were examined before sperm injection, and intracytoplasmic and extracytoplasmic defects were recorded. The effect of the sperm DNA fragmentation index on laboratory and clinical intracytoplasmic sperm injection outcomes (depending on the presence of oocyte defects) was evaluated. RESULTS Significant increases in the rates of fertilization, high-quality embryo, implantation, and pregnancy were noted for cycles with <30% sperm DNA fragmentation than cycles with ≥30% sperm DNA fragmentation (regardless of the presence of oocyte dimorphisms). The presence of dimorphisms significantly impacted laboratory and clinical outcomes. The lowest fertilization and high-quality embryo rates were observed when a high sperm DNA fragmentation index was associated with the presence of dark cytoplasm, vacuoles, resistant membrane, and non-resistant membrane. The lowest implantation and pregnancy rates were observed when a high sperm DNA fragmentation index was associated with the presence of vacuoles, defective perivitelline space, and fragmented polar body. The effect of sperm DNA fragmentation on miscarriage rates was significantly influenced by the presence of centrally located cytoplasmic granulation, a defective perivitelline space and non-resistant membrane. CONCLUSION A high sperm DNA fragmentation index increases the likelihood of miscarriage in intracytoplasmic sperm injection cycles, an effect that may potentially be magnified by the presence of oocyte dysmorphisms.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Christina Morishima
- Instituto Sapientiae-Centro de Estudos e Pesquisa em Reprodução Assistida, Sao Paulo, Brazil
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Torkzadeh T, Asadi Z, Jafari Atrabi M, Eivazkhani F, Khodadi M, Hajiaghalou S, Akbarinejad V, Fathi R. Optimisation of hormonal treatment to improve follicular development in one-day-old mice ovaries cultured under in vitro condition. Reprod Fertil Dev 2023; 35:733-749. [PMID: 37995332 DOI: 10.1071/rd23027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT Base medium containing knock-out serum replacement (KSR) has been found to support formation and maintenance of follicles in one-day-old mice ovaries, but has not been shown to properly support activation and growth of primordial follicles. AIMS The present study was conducted to tailor the hormonal content of base medium containing KSR to enhance development of primordial follicles in neonatal ovaries. METHODS One-day-old mice ovaries were initially cultured with base medium for four days, and then, different hormonal treatments were added to the culture media and the culture was proceeded for four additional days until day eight. Ovaries were collected for histological and molecular assessments on days four and eight. KEY RESULTS In experiment I, the main and interactive effects of FSH and testosterone were investigated and FSH promoted activation of primordial follicles and development of primary and preantral follicles, and upregulated genes of phosphoinositide 3-kinase (Pi3k ), KIT ligand (Kitl ), growth differentiation factor 9 (Gdf9 ) and follicle stimulating hormone receptor (Fshr ) (P Bmp15 ), Connexin-43 (Cx43 ) and luteinising hormone and choriogonadotropin receptor (Lhcgr ) (P P Lhcgr (P P >0.05). CONCLUSIONS Supplementation of culture medium containing KSR with gonadotropins, particularly hMG, could improve follicular growth and expression of factors regulating follicular development. IMPLICATIONS This study was a step forward in formulating an optimal medium for development of follicles in cultured one-day-old mice ovaries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tahoura Torkzadeh
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Asadi
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran; and Department of Oncology Science, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73014, USA
| | - Mohammad Jafari Atrabi
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Medical Center, Georg August University, Göttingen, Germany; and Platform Degenerative Diseases, German Primate Center, Leibniz Institute for Primate Research (DPZ), Göttingen, Germany
| | - Farideh Eivazkhani
- Department of Embryology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Khodadi
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Samira Hajiaghalou
- Department of Embryology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Vahid Akbarinejad
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Rouhollah Fathi
- Department of Embryology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
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Hu Y, Zhao S, Liu Z, Kang T, Hsueh AJ, Li J. Gonacin: A germ cell-derived hormone with glucogenic, orexigenic, and gonadal activities. iScience 2023; 26:108065. [PMID: 37860761 PMCID: PMC10582579 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.108065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Revised: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Fish require abundant nutrients to generate a large number of eggs for spawning. Based on the evolutionary conservation of human FBN2 and its C-terminal placensin-like sequences in fish, we identified a peptide hormone gonacin (GONAdal Cell placensIN) and found its high expression in early-stage germ cells in the ovary and testis of zebrafish. We demonstrated that gonacin is essential for food intake, glucose release, and ovarian development in zebrafish. Similar expression patterns and functions of gonacin were also demonstrated in rainbow trout. Gonacin represents the first hormone secreted by germ cells with endocrine functions in vertebrates, bridging the energy homeostasis and reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yixuan Hu
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest Normal University, Lanzhou 730070, China
| | - Shengyou Zhao
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest Normal University, Lanzhou 730070, China
| | - Zhiquan Liu
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest Normal University, Lanzhou 730070, China
| | - Tao Kang
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest Normal University, Lanzhou 730070, China
| | - Aaron J.W. Hsueh
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest Normal University, Lanzhou 730070, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Jianzhen Li
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest Normal University, Lanzhou 730070, China
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Liu SL, Zuo HY, Zhao BW, Guo JN, Liu WB, Lei WL, Li YY, Ouyang YC, Hou Y, Han ZM, Wang WZ, Sun QY, Wang ZB. A heterozygous ZP2 mutation causes zona pellucida defects and female infertility in mouse and human. iScience 2023; 26:107828. [PMID: 37736051 PMCID: PMC10509300 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.107828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023] Open
Abstract
The zona pellucida (ZP) is an extracellular glycoprotein matrix surrounding mammalian oocytes. Recently, numerous mutations in genes encoding ZP proteins have been shown to be possibly related to oocyte abnormality and female infertility; few reports have confirmed the functions of these mutations in living animal models. Here, we identified a novel heterozygous missense mutation (NM_001376231.1:c.1616C>T, p.Thr539Met) in ZP2 from a primary infertile female. We showed that the mutation reduced ZP2 expression and impeded ZP2 secretion in cell lines. Furthermore, we constructed the mouse model with the mutation (Zp2T541M) using CRISPR-Cas9. Zp2WT/T541M female mice had normal fertility though generated oocytes with the thin ZP, whereas Zp2T541M female mice were completely infertile due to degeneration of oocytes without ZP. Additionally, ZP deletion impaired folliculogenesis and caused female infertility in Zp2T541M mice. Our study not only expands the spectrum of ZP2 mutation sites but also, more importantly, increases the understanding of pathogenic mechanisms of ZP2 mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sai-Li Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 101408, China
| | - Hai-Yang Zuo
- The Six Medical Center of Chinese People’s Liberation Army General Hospital, Beijing 100048, China
| | - Bing-Wang Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 101408, China
| | - Jia-Ni Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 101408, China
| | - Wen-Bo Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Wen-Long Lei
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Yuan-Yuan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Ying-Chun Ouyang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Yi Hou
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Zhi-Ming Han
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 101408, China
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Wei-Zhou Wang
- The Six Medical Center of Chinese People’s Liberation Army General Hospital, Beijing 100048, China
| | - Qing-Yuan Sun
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Metabolic Diseases and Reproductive Health, Guangdong-Hong Kong Metabolism & Reproduction Joint Laboratory, Reproductive Medicine Center, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou 510317, China
| | - Zhen-Bo Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 101408, China
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing 100101, China
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Akin N, Ates G, von Mengden L, Herta AC, Meriggioli C, Billooye K, Stocker WA, Ghesquiere B, Harrison CA, Cools W, Klamt F, Massie A, Smitz J, Anckaert E. Effects of lactate, super-GDF9, and low oxygen tension during bi-phasic in vitro maturation on the bioenergetic profiles of mouse cumulus-oocyte complex†. Biol Reprod 2023; 109:432-449. [PMID: 37531262 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioad085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2023] [Revised: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023] Open
Abstract
In vitro maturation (IVM) is an alternative assisted reproductive technology with reduced hormone-related side effects and treatment burden compared to conventional IVF. Capacitation (CAPA)-IVM is a bi-phasic IVM system with improved clinical outcomes compared to standard monophasic IVM. Yet, CAPA-IVM efficiency compared to conventional IVF is still suboptimal in terms of producing utilizable blastocysts. Previously, we have shown that CAPA-IVM leads to a precocious increase in cumulus cell (CC) glycolytic activity during cytoplasmic maturation. In the current study, considering the fundamental importance of CCs for oocyte maturation and cumulus-oocyte complex (COC) microenvironment, we further analyzed the bioenergetic profiles of maturing CAPA-IVM COCs. Through a multi-step approach, we (i) explored mitochondrial function of the in vivo and CAPA-IVM matured COCs through real-time metabolic analysis with Seahorse analyzer, and to improve COC metabolism (ii) supplemented the culture media with lactate and/or super-GDF9 (an engineered form of growth differentiation factor 9) and (iii) reduced culture oxygen tension. Our results indicated that the pre-IVM step is delicate and prone to culture-related disruptions. Lactate and/or super-GDF9 supplementations failed to eliminate pre-IVM-induced stress on COC glucose metabolism and mitochondrial respiration. However, when performing pre-IVM culture under 5% oxygen tension, CAPA-IVM COCs showed similar bioenergetic profiles compared to in vivo matured counterparts. This is the first study providing real-time metabolic analysis of the COCs from a bi-phasic IVM system. The currently used analytical approach provides the quantitative measures and the rational basis to further improve IVM culture requirements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nazli Akin
- Follicle Biology Laboratory (FOBI), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Gamze Ates
- Laboratory of Neuro-Aging and Viro-Immunotherapy, Center for Neurosciences (C4N), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Lucia von Mengden
- Laboratory of Cellular Biochemistry, Department of Biochemistry, ICBS, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | | | - Cecilia Meriggioli
- Follicle Biology Laboratory (FOBI), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Katy Billooye
- Follicle Biology Laboratory (FOBI), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - William A Stocker
- Department of Physiology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Brecht Ghesquiere
- Research Group Reproduction and Genetics, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Craig A Harrison
- Department of Physiology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Wilfried Cools
- Support for Quantitative and Qualitative Research (SQUARE) Core Facility, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Fabio Klamt
- Laboratory of Cellular Biochemistry, Department of Biochemistry, ICBS, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Ann Massie
- Laboratory of Neuro-Aging and Viro-Immunotherapy, Center for Neurosciences (C4N), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Johan Smitz
- Follicle Biology Laboratory (FOBI), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Ellen Anckaert
- Follicle Biology Laboratory (FOBI), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
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Telfer EE, Grosbois J, Odey YL, Rosario R, Anderson RA. Making a good egg: human oocyte health, aging, and in vitro development. Physiol Rev 2023; 103:2623-2677. [PMID: 37171807 PMCID: PMC10625843 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00032.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Revised: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Mammalian eggs (oocytes) are formed during fetal life and establish associations with somatic cells to form primordial follicles that create a store of germ cells (the primordial pool). The size of this pool is influenced by key events during the formation of germ cells and by factors that influence the subsequent activation of follicle growth. These regulatory pathways must ensure that the reserve of oocytes within primordial follicles in humans lasts for up to 50 years, yet only approximately 0.1% will ever be ovulated with the rest undergoing degeneration. This review outlines the mechanisms and regulatory pathways that govern the processes of oocyte and follicle formation and later growth, within the ovarian stroma, through to ovulation with particular reference to human oocytes/follicles. In addition, the effects of aging on female reproductive capacity through changes in oocyte number and quality are emphasized, with both the cellular mechanisms and clinical implications discussed. Finally, the details of current developments in culture systems that support all stages of follicle growth to generate mature oocytes in vitro and emerging prospects for making new oocytes from stem cells are outlined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evelyn E Telfer
- Institute of Cell Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Johanne Grosbois
- Institute of Cell Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Yvonne L Odey
- Institute of Cell Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Roseanne Rosario
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, Queens Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Richard A Anderson
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, Queens Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
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Piau TB, de Queiroz Rodrigues A, Paulini F. Insulin-like growth factor (IGF) performance in ovarian function and applications in reproductive biotechnologies. Growth Horm IGF Res 2023; 72-73:101561. [PMID: 38070331 DOI: 10.1016/j.ghir.2023.101561] [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: 08/02/2023] [Revised: 11/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023]
Abstract
The role of the insulin-like growth factor (IGF) system has attracted close attention. The activity of IGF binding proteins (IGFBPs) within the ovary has not been fully elucidated to date. These proteins bind to IGF with an equal, or greater, affinity than to the IGF1 receptor, thus being in the main position to regulate IGF signalling, in addition to extending the half-life of IGFs within the bloodstream and promoting IGF storage in specific tissue niches. IGF1 has an important part in cell proliferation, differentiation and apoptosis. Considering the importance of IGFs in oocyte maturation, this review sought to elucidate aspects including: IGF production mechanisms; constituent members of their family and their respective functions; the role that these factors play during folliculogenesis, together with their functions during oocyte maturation and apoptosis, and their performance during luteal development. This review also explores the role of IGFs in biotechnological applications, focusing specifically on animal genetic gain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tathyana Benetis Piau
- University of Brasília, Institute of Biological Sciences, Department of Physiological Sciences, Brasília, DF 70910-900, Brazil
| | - Aline de Queiroz Rodrigues
- University of Brasília, Institute of Biological Sciences, Department of Physiological Sciences, Brasília, DF 70910-900, Brazil
| | - Fernanda Paulini
- University of Brasília, Institute of Biological Sciences, Department of Physiological Sciences, Brasília, DF 70910-900, Brazil.
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Sciorio R, Cariati F, Fleming S, Alviggi C. Exploring the Impact of Controlled Ovarian Stimulation and Non-Invasive Oocyte Assessment in ART Treatments. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:1989. [PMID: 37895371 PMCID: PMC10608727 DOI: 10.3390/life13101989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Revised: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Invasive and noninvasive features are normally applied to select developmentally competent oocytes and embryos that can increase the take-home baby rates in assisted reproductive technology. The noninvasive approach mainly applied to determine oocyte and embryo competence has been, since the early days of IVF, the morphological evaluation of the mature cumulus-oocyte complex at the time of pickup, first polar body, zona pellucida thickness, perivitelline space and cytoplasm appearance. Morphological evaluation of oocyte quality is one of the options used to predict successful fertilization, early embryo development, uterine implantation and the capacity of an embryo to generate a healthy pregnancy to term. Thus, this paper aims to provide an analytical revision of the current literature relating to the correlation between ovarian stimulation procedures and oocyte/embryo quality. In detail, several aspects of oocyte quality such as morphological features, oocyte competence and its surrounding environment will be discussed. In addition, the main noninvasive features as well as novel approaches to biomechanical parameters of oocytes that might be correlated with the competence of embryos to produce a healthy pregnancy and live birth will be illustrated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romualdo Sciorio
- Fertility Medicine and Gynaecological Endocrinology Unit, Department Woman-Mother-Child, Lausanne University Hospital, CHUV, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Federica Cariati
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, Via Pansini 5, 80131 Napoli, Italy;
| | - Steven Fleming
- Discipline of Anatomy & Histology, School of Medical Sciences, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia;
| | - Carlo Alviggi
- Fertility Unit, Maternal-Child Department, AOU Policlinico Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy;
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
- Endocrinology and Experimental Oncology Institute (IEOS), National Research Council, 80131 Naples, Italy
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Lu X, Lv X, Dong X, Li Y, Turathum B, Liu S, Wang X, Shi H, Liu Y. Increased serine synthesis in cumulus cells of young infertile women with diminished ovarian reserve. Hum Reprod 2023; 38:1723-1732. [PMID: 37533289 PMCID: PMC10477940 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dead155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2022] [Revised: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION What are the differences in gene expression of cumulus cells (CCs) between young women with diminished ovarian reserve (DOR) and those of similar age with normal ovarian reserve (NOR)? SUMMARY ANSWER Gene expression and metabolome profiling analysis demonstrate that the de novo serine synthesis pathway (SSP) is increased in the CCs of young women with DOR. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY The incidence of DOR has risen, tending to present at younger ages. Its mechanisms and aetiologies are still poorly understood. Abnormal metabolism is present in luteinized CCs of patients with DOR. Previous studies have revealed that mitochondrial dysfunction and impaired oxidative phosphorylation in CCs are related to DOR in women of advanced age. The pathogenic mechanisms likely differ between young women with DOR and cases associated with advanced maternal age. Several studies have examined amino acid metabolism in the follicle, with a focus on embryo development, but less information is available about CCs. The physiological significance of de novo serine synthesis in follicles and oocytes remains largely unknown. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION CC samples were obtained from 107 young infertile women (age <38 years) undergoing ICSI, from July 2017 to June 2019, including 54 patients with DOR and 53 patients with NOR. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Oocyte development data were analysed retrospectively. Comprehensive genome-wide transcriptomics of CCs was performed. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analyses were performed to categorize the functions of the DEGs and identify significantly enriched pathways. The transcript and protein levels of key enzymes involved in serine synthesis were verified in additional samples using quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) (n = 10) and capillary western blotting (n = 36). Targeted metabolomics of amino acids in CC extracts was performed by ultrahigh-performance liquid MS (UHPLC-MS/MS). MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE The number of oocytes (2.4 ± 2.2 versus 12.1 ± 5.3) and metaphase II oocytes (2.1 ± 2.0 versus 9.9 ± 4.9) retrieved was significantly decreased in the DOR versus the NOR group, respectively (P < 0.0001). The rates of fertilization (80.7% versus 78.8%), viable embryos (73.7% versus 72.5%), and high-quality embryos (42.8% versus 49.0%) did not differ between the DOR and NOR groups, respectively (P > 0.05). A total of 95 DEGs were found by transcriptome sequencing. GO and KEGG analyses demonstrated that the DEGs were linked to amino acid metabolism and suggested significantly higher activity of the de novo SSP in the CCs of young women with DOR. Further qRT-PCR and capillary western blotting revealed that key enzymes (PHGDH, PSAT1, PSPH, and SHMT2) involved in de novo serine synthesis were upregulated, and UHPLC-MS/MS analysis showed increases in serine and glycine (a downstream product of serine) levels in the CCs of young patients with DOR. Our data clearly demonstrate that the de novo SSP, which diverts 3-phosphoglycerate from glycolysis to serine synthesis, was upregulated in young DOR CCs. LARGE SCALE DATA N/A. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Regarding the reproductive capacity of young patients DOR, the pregnancy outcomes were not analysed. The sample size was limited, and only women undergoing ICSI were examined since this was a prerequisite for the acquisition of CCs, which may cause selection bias. The exact mechanisms by which the SSP in CCs regulates ovarian reserve still require further study. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Our research presents new evidence that alterations of the SSP in CCs of young infertile women are associated with DOR. We believe this is a significant contribution to the field, which should be key for understanding the cause and mechanisms of ovarian hypofunction in young women. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was supported by grants from the Ministry of Science and Technology of China (2018YFC1005001) and National Natural Science Foundation of China (31601197). There were no competing interests. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinmei Lu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Zhongshan Hospital, NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation, Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies, Pharmacy School, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaolong Lv
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Xi Dong
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Zhongshan Hospital, NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation, Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies, Pharmacy School, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yulin Li
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai Tenth People’s Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Bongkoch Turathum
- Department of Basic Medical Science, Faculty of Medicine, Vajira Hospital, Navamindradhiraj University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Suying Liu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Zhongshan Hospital, NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation, Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies, Pharmacy School, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xuemei Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Zhongshan Hospital, NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation, Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies, Pharmacy School, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Huijuan Shi
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Zhongshan Hospital, NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation, Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies, Pharmacy School, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yubing Liu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai Tenth People’s Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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