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Caetano Filho FF, Paulino LRF, Bezerra VS, Azevedo VAN, Barroso PAA, Costa FC, Amorim GG, Silva JRV. Thymol increases primordial follicle activation, protects stromal cells, collagen fibers and down-regulates expression of mRNA for superoxide dismutase 1, catalase and periredoxin 6 in cultured bovine ovarian tissues. Anim Reprod Sci 2024; 266:107514. [PMID: 38824841 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2024.107514] [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: 02/28/2024] [Revised: 05/14/2024] [Accepted: 05/25/2024] [Indexed: 06/04/2024]
Abstract
This study aims to investigate the influence of thymol on primordial follicle growth and survival, as well as on collagen fibers and stromal cells density in bovine ovarian tissues cultured in vitro. The activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GPX), the thiol levels and the expression of mRNAs for SOD1, CAT, periredoxin 6 (PRDX6) and GPX1 were also investigated. Ovarian cortical tissues were cultured in α-MEM+ alone or with thymol (400, 800, 1600 or 3200 μg/mL) for six days. Before and after culture, the tissues were processed for histological analysis to evaluate follicular activation, growth, morphology, ovarian stromal cell density and collagen fibers. The levels of mRNA for SOD1, CAT, GPX1 and PRDX6 were evaluated by real-time PCR. The results show that tissues cultured with thymol (400 and 800 µg/mL) had increased percentages of normal follicles, when compared to tissues cultured in other treatments. At concentrations of 400 and 800 µg/mL, thymol maintained the rate of normal follicles similar to the uncultured control. In addition, 400 µg/mL thymol increased follicle activation, collagen fibers and stromal cell density of when compared to tissues cultured in control medium. The presence of 800 µg/mL thymol in culture medium increased CAT activity, while 400 or 800 µg/mL thymol reduced mRNA levels for SOD1, CAT and PRDX6, but did not alter GPX1 expression. In conclusion, 400 µg/mL thymol increases primordial follicle activation, preserves stromal cells, collagen fibers, and down-regulates expression of mRNA for SOD1, CAT and PRDX6 in cultured bovine ovarian tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco F Caetano Filho
- Laboratory of Biotechnology and Physiology of Reproduction (LABIREP), Federal University of Ceará, Sobral, CE, Brazil
| | - Lais R F Paulino
- Laboratory of Biotechnology and Physiology of Reproduction (LABIREP), Federal University of Ceará, Sobral, CE, Brazil
| | - Vitória S Bezerra
- Laboratory of Biotechnology and Physiology of Reproduction (LABIREP), Federal University of Ceará, Sobral, CE, Brazil
| | - Venância A N Azevedo
- Laboratory of Biotechnology and Physiology of Reproduction (LABIREP), Federal University of Ceará, Sobral, CE, Brazil
| | - Pedro A A Barroso
- Laboratory of Biotechnology and Physiology of Reproduction (LABIREP), Federal University of Ceará, Sobral, CE, Brazil
| | - Francisco C Costa
- Laboratory of Biotechnology and Physiology of Reproduction (LABIREP), Federal University of Ceará, Sobral, CE, Brazil
| | - Geovany G Amorim
- Nucleus of Studies in Bioactive Phytochemicals (NEFB), Vale do Acaraú State University, Sobral, Ceará, Brazil
| | - José R V Silva
- Laboratory of Biotechnology and Physiology of Reproduction (LABIREP), Federal University of Ceará, Sobral, CE, Brazil.
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2
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Lawley SD, Sammel MD, Santoro N, Johnson J. Mathematical recapitulation of the end stages of human ovarian aging. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2024; 10:eadj4490. [PMID: 38215196 PMCID: PMC10786411 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adj4490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/14/2024]
Abstract
Ovarian aging in women can be described as highly unpredictable within individuals but predictable across large populations. We showed previously that modeling an individual woman's ovarian reserve of primordial follicles using mathematical random walks replicates the natural pattern of growing follicles exiting the reserve. Compiling many simulations yields the observed population distribution of the age at natural menopause (ANM). Here, we have probed how stochastic control of primordial follicle loss might relate to the distribution of the preceding menopausal transition (MT), when women begin to experience menstrual cycle irregularity. We show that identical random walk model conditions produce both the reported MT distribution and the ANM distribution when thresholds are set for growing follicle availability. The MT and ANM are shown to correspond to gaps when primordial follicles fail to grow for 7 and 12 days, respectively. Modeling growing follicle supply is shown to precisely recapitulate epidemiological data and provides quantitative criteria for the MT and ANM in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean D. Lawley
- Department of Mathematics, University of Utah, 155 S 1400 E, JWB 233, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
| | - Mary D. Sammel
- Department of Biostatistics and Informatics, Colorado School of Public Health, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado School of Medicine (AMC) Building RC2, Room P15 3103, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Nanette Santoro
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado School of Medicine (AMC) Building RC2, Room P15 3103, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Joshua Johnson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado School of Medicine (AMC) Building RC2, Room P15 3103, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
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3
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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: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [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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Lopez J, Hohensee G, Liang J, Sela M, Johnson J, Kallen AN. The Aging Ovary and the Tales Learned Since Fetal Development. Sex Dev 2023; 17:156-168. [PMID: 37598664 PMCID: PMC10841896 DOI: 10.1159/000532072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND While the term "aging" implies a process typically associated with later life, the consequences of ovarian aging are evident by the time a woman reaches her forties, and sometimes earlier. This is due to a gradual decline in the quantity and quality of oocytes which occurs over a woman's reproductive lifespan. Indeed, the reproductive potential of the ovary is established even before birth, as the proper formation and assembly of the ovarian germ cell population during fetal life determines the lifetime endowment of oocytes and follicles. In the ovary, sophisticated molecular processes have been identified that regulate the timing of ovarian aging and these are critical to ensuring follicular maintenance. SUMMARY The mechanisms thought to contribute to overall aging have been summarized under the term the "hallmarks of aging" and include such processes as DNA damage, mitochondrial dysfunction, telomere attrition, genomic instability, and stem cell exhaustion, among others. Similarly, in the ovary, molecular processes have been identified that regulate the timing of ovarian aging and these are critical to ensuring follicular maintenance. In this review, we outline critical processes involved in ovarian aging, highlight major achievements for treatment of ovarian aging, and discuss ongoing questions and areas of debate. KEY MESSAGES Ovarian aging is recognized as what may be a complex process in which age, genetics, environment, and many other factors contribute to the size and depletion of the follicle pool. The putative hallmarks of reproductive aging outlined herein include a diversity of plausible processes contributing to the depletion of the ovarian reserve. More research is needed to clarify if and to what extent these putative regulators do in fact govern follicle and oocyte behavior, and how these signals might be integrated in order to control the overall pattern of ovarian aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesus Lopez
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Gabe Hohensee
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Jing Liang
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Meirav Sela
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Joshua Johnson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Amanda N. Kallen
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
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Lawley SD, Johnson J. Slowest first passage times, redundancy, and menopause timing. J Math Biol 2023; 86:90. [PMID: 37148411 DOI: 10.1007/s00285-023-01921-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Revised: 04/01/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Biological events are often initiated when a random "searcher" finds a "target," which is called a first passage time (FPT). In some biological systems involving multiple searchers, an important timescale is the time it takes the slowest searcher(s) to find a target. For example, of the hundreds of thousands of primordial follicles in a woman's ovarian reserve, it is the slowest to leave that trigger the onset of menopause. Such slowest FPTs may also contribute to the reliability of cell signaling pathways and influence the ability of a cell to locate an external stimulus. In this paper, we use extreme value theory and asymptotic analysis to obtain rigorous approximations to the full probability distribution and moments of slowest FPTs. Though the results are proven in the limit of many searchers, numerical simulations reveal that the approximations are accurate for any number of searchers in typical scenarios of interest. We apply these general mathematical results to models of ovarian aging and menopause timing, which reveals the role of slowest FPTs for understanding redundancy in biological systems. We also apply the theory to several popular models of stochastic search, including search by diffusive, subdiffusive, and mortal searchers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean D Lawley
- Department of Mathematics, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, 84112, USA.
| | - Joshua Johnson
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado-Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
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Grosbois J, Bailie EC, Kelsey TW, Anderson RA, Telfer EE. Spatio-temporal remodelling of the composition and architecture of the human ovarian cortical extracellular matrix during in vitro culture. Hum Reprod 2023; 38:444-458. [PMID: 36721914 PMCID: PMC9977129 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dead008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Revised: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION How does in vitro culture alter the human ovarian cortical extracellular matrix (ECM) network structure? SUMMARY ANSWER The ECM composition and architecture vary in the different layers of the ovarian cortex and are remodelled during in vitro culture. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY The ovarian ECM is the scaffold within which follicles and stromal cells are organized. Its composition and structural properties constantly evolve to accommodate follicle development and expansion. Tissue preparation for culture of primordial follicles within the native ECM involves mechanical loosening; this induces undefined modifications in the ECM network and alters cell-cell contact, leading to spontaneous follicle activation. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Fresh ovarian cortical biopsies were obtained from six women aged 28-38 years (mean ± SD: 32.7 ± 4.1 years) at elective caesarean section. Biopsies were cut into fragments of ∼4 × 1 × 1 mm and cultured for 0, 2, 4, or 6 days (D). PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Primordial follicle activation, stromal cell density, and ECM-related protein (collagen, elastin, fibronectin, laminin) positive area in the entire cortex were quantified at each time point using histological and immunohistological analysis. Collagen and elastin content, collagen fibre characteristics, and follicle distribution within the tissue were further quantified within each layer of the human ovarian cortex, namely the outer cortex, the mid-cortex, and the cortex-medulla junction regions. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Primordial follicle activation occurred concomitantly with a loosening of the ovarian cortex during culture, characterized by an early decrease in stromal cell density from 3.6 ± 0.2 × 106 at day 0 (D0) to 2.8 ± 0.1 × 106 cells/mm3 at D2 (P = 0.033) and a dynamic remodelling of the ECM. Notably, collagen content gradually fell from 55.5 ± 1.7% positive area at D0 to 42.3 ± 1.1% at D6 (P = 0.001), while elastin increased from 1.1 ± 0.2% at D0 to 1.9 ± 0.1% at D6 (P = 0.001). Fibronectin and laminin content remained stable. Moreover, collagen and elastin distribution were uneven throughout the cortex and during culture. Analysis at the sub-region level showed that collagen deposition was maximal in the outer cortex and the lowest in the mid-cortex (69.4 ± 1.2% versus 53.8 ± 0.8% positive area, respectively, P < 0.0001), and cortical collagen staining overall decreased from D0 to D2 (65.2 ± 2.4% versus 60.6 ± 1.8%, P = 0.033) then stabilized. Elastin showed the converse distribution, being most concentrated at the cortex-medulla junction (3.7 ± 0.6% versus 0.9 ± 0.2% in the outer cortex, P < 0.0001), and cortical elastin peaked at D6 compared to D0 (3.1 ± 0.5% versus 1.3 ± 0.2%, P < 0.0001). This was corroborated by a specific signature of the collagen fibre type across the cortex, indicating a distinct phenotype of the ovarian cortical ECM depending on region and culture period that might be responsible for the spatio-temporal and developmental pattern of follicular distribution observed within the cortex. LARGE SCALE DATA N/A. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Ovarian cortical biopsies were obtained from women undergoing caesarean sections. As such, the data obtained may not accurately reflect the ECM distribution and structure of non-pregnant women. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Clarifying the composition and architecture signature of the human ovarian cortical ECM provides a foundation for further exploration of ovarian microenvironments. It is also critical for understanding the ECM-follicle interactions regulating follicle quiescence and awakening, leading to improvements in both in vitro activation and in vitro growth techniques. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) Medical Research Council grant MR/R003246/1 and Wellcome Trust Collaborative Award in Science: 215625/Z/19/Z. The authors have no conflicts to declare. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johanne Grosbois
- Institute of Cell Biology, Hugh Robson Building, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Emily C Bailie
- Institute of Cell Biology, Hugh Robson Building, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, Queens Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Tom W Kelsey
- School of Computer Science, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, UK
| | - Richard A Anderson
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, Queens Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Evelyn E Telfer
- Institute of Cell Biology, Hugh Robson Building, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
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Derks B, Rivera-Cruz G, Hagen-Lillevik S, Vos EN, Demirbas D, Lai K, Treacy EP, Levy HL, Wilkins-Haug LE, Rubio-Gozalbo ME, Berry GT. The hypergonadotropic hypogonadism conundrum of classic galactosemia. Hum Reprod Update 2023; 29:246-258. [PMID: 36512573 PMCID: PMC9976963 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmac041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Revised: 11/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hypergonadotropic hypogonadism is a burdensome complication of classic galactosemia (CG), an inborn error of galactose metabolism that invariably affects female patients. Since its recognition in 1979, data have become available regarding the clinical spectrum, and the impact on fertility. Many women have been counseled for infertility and the majority never try to conceive, yet spontaneous pregnancies can occur. Onset and mechanism of damage have not been elucidated, yet new insights at the molecular level are becoming available that might greatly benefit our understanding. Fertility preservation options have expanded, and treatments to mitigate this complication either by directly rescuing the metabolic defect or by influencing the cascade of events are being explored. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE The aims are to review: the clinical picture and the need to revisit the counseling paradigm; insights into the onset and mechanism of damage at the molecular level; and current treatments to mitigate ovarian damage. SEARCH METHODS In addition to the work on this topic by the authors, the PubMed database has been used to search for peer-reviewed articles and reviews using the following terms: 'classic galactosemia', 'gonadal damage', 'primary ovarian insufficiency', 'fertility', 'animal models' and 'fertility preservation' in combination with other keywords related to the subject area. All relevant publications until August 2022 have been critically evaluated and reviewed. OUTCOMES A diagnosis of premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) results in a significant psychological burden with a high incidence of depression and anxiety that urges adequate counseling at an early stage, appropriate treatment and timely discussion of fertility preservation options. The cause of POI in CG is unknown, but evidence exists of dysregulation in pathways crucial for folliculogenesis such as phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B, inositol pathway, mitogen-activated protein kinase, insulin-like growth factor-1 and transforming growth factor-beta signaling. Recent findings from the GalT gene-trapped (GalTKO) mouse model suggest that early molecular changes in 1-month-old ovaries elicit an accelerated growth activation and burnout of primordial follicles, resembling the progressive ovarian failure seen in patients. Although data on safety and efficacy outcomes are still limited, ovarian tissue cryopreservation can be a fertility preservation option. Treatments to overcome the genetic defect, for example nucleic acid therapy such as mRNA or gene therapy, or that influence the cascade of events are being explored at the (pre-)clinical level. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Elucidation of the molecular pathways underlying POI of any origin can greatly advance our insight into the pathogenesis and open new treatment avenues. Alterations in these molecular pathways might serve as markers of disease progression and efficiency of new treatment options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Britt Derks
- Department of Pediatrics and Clinical Genetics, Maastricht University Medical Centre+, Maastricht, The Netherlands.,GROW, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands.,European Reference Network for Hereditary Metabolic Disorders (MetabERN) Member and United for Metabolic Diseases Member
| | - Greysha Rivera-Cruz
- Division of Genetics & Genomics, Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Synneva Hagen-Lillevik
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.,Department of Nutrition and Integrative Physiology, University of Utah College of Health, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - E Naomi Vos
- Department of Pediatrics and Clinical Genetics, Maastricht University Medical Centre+, Maastricht, The Netherlands.,GROW, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands.,European Reference Network for Hereditary Metabolic Disorders (MetabERN) Member and United for Metabolic Diseases Member
| | - Didem Demirbas
- Division of Genetics & Genomics, Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kent Lai
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.,Department of Nutrition and Integrative Physiology, University of Utah College of Health, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Eileen P Treacy
- European Reference Network for Hereditary Metabolic Disorders (MetabERN) Member and United for Metabolic Diseases Member.,National Centre for Inherited Metabolic Disorders, Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland.,School of Medicine, Trinity College, Dublin 2, Ireland.,School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Harvey L Levy
- Division of Genetics & Genomics, Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Louise E Wilkins-Haug
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - M Estela Rubio-Gozalbo
- Department of Pediatrics and Clinical Genetics, Maastricht University Medical Centre+, Maastricht, The Netherlands.,GROW, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands.,European Reference Network for Hereditary Metabolic Disorders (MetabERN) Member and United for Metabolic Diseases Member
| | - Gerard T Berry
- Division of Genetics & Genomics, Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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8
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Hagen-Lillevik S, Johnson J, Lai K. Early postnatal alterations in follicular stress response and survival in a mouse model of Classic Galactosemia. J Ovarian Res 2022; 15:122. [PMID: 36414970 PMCID: PMC9682695 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-022-01049-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Primary ovarian insufficiency is characterized by accelerated loss of primordial follicles, which results in ovarian failure and concomitant menopause before age 40. About 1-3% of females in the general population are diagnosed with POI; however, greater than 80% of females with the inherited disease Classic Galactosemia will develop POI. Classic Galactosemia is caused by mutations in the GALT gene encoding the enzyme galactose-1 phosphate uridylyltransferase. While dietary restriction of galactose is lifesaving in the neonatal period, the development of complications including primary ovarian insufficiency is not mitigated. Additionally, the pattern(s) of follicle loss have not been completely characterized. The chronic accumulation of aberrant metabolites such as galactose-1-phosphate and galactitol are suspected culprits in the development of the sequelae, yet the mechanisms remain elusive.Our group uses a GalT gene-trapped mouse model to study the pathophysiology of primary ovarian insufficiency in Classic Galactosemia. We recently showed that differences in the Integrated Stress Response pathway occur in mutant ovaries that likely contribute to their primary ovarian insufficiency phenotype. Using immunofluorescent staining of histological sections of ovaries at progressive ages, we saw evidence of altered Integrated Stress Response activity in granulosa cells and primordial oocytes consistent with accelerated primordial follicle growth activation, aberrant DNA damage and/or repair, and increased cellular stress/death. Overall, our findings indicate that abnormal Integrated Stress Response in the Classic Galactosemia model ovary results in accelerated primordial follicle growth activation, sometimes referred to as "burnout." These aberrant early events help further clarify when/how the primary ovarian insufficiency phenotype arises under galactosemic conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Synneva Hagen-Lillevik
- grid.223827.e0000 0001 2193 0096Department of Pediatrics, University of Utah School of Medicine, 295 Chipeta Way, Salt Lake City, UT 84108 USA ,grid.223827.e0000 0001 2193 0096Department of Nutrition and Integrative Physiology, University of Utah College of Health, 250 South 1850 East Room 214, Salt Lake City, UT 84112 USA
| | - Joshua Johnson
- grid.430503.10000 0001 0703 675XDivision of Reproductive Sciences, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Denver (AMC), Building RC2, Room P15 3103, Mail Stop 8613, Aurora, CO 80045 USA
| | - Kent Lai
- grid.223827.e0000 0001 2193 0096Department of Pediatrics, University of Utah School of Medicine, 295 Chipeta Way, Salt Lake City, UT 84108 USA ,grid.223827.e0000 0001 2193 0096Department of Nutrition and Integrative Physiology, University of Utah College of Health, 250 South 1850 East Room 214, Salt Lake City, UT 84112 USA
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9
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Nemerovsky L, Bar-Joseph H, Eldar-Boock A, Tarabeih R, Elmechaly C, Ben-Ami I, Shalgi R. The Role of PEDF in Reproductive Aging of the Ovary. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231810359. [PMID: 36142276 PMCID: PMC9499037 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231810359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2022] [Revised: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Reproductive aging is characterized by a decline in ovarian function and in oocytes’ quantity and quality. Pigment epithelium-derived factor (PEDF), a pivotal player in ovarian angiogenic and oxidative balance, was evaluated for its involvement in reproductive aging. Our work examines the initial stage of reproductive aging in women and mice, and the involvement of PEDF in the process. Granulosa cells from reproductively-aged (RA) women and mice (36–44 years old and 9–10 months old, respectively) indicated an increase in the level of PEDF mRNA (qPCR), with yet unchanged levels of AMH and FSHR mRNAs. However, the PEDF protein level in individual women showed an intra-cellular decrease (ELISA), along with a decrease in the corresponding follicular fluid, which reflects the secreted fraction of the protein. The in vitro maturation (IVM) rate in the oocytes of RA mice was lower compared with the oocytes of young mice, demonstrated by a reduced polar body extrusion (PBE) rate. The supplementation of PEDF improved the hampered PBE rate, manifested by a higher number of energetically-competent oocytes (ATP concentration and mtDNA copy number of individual oocytes). Our findings propose PEDF as an early marker of reproductive aging, and a possible therapeutic in vitro agent that could enhance the number of good-quality oocytes in older IVF patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luba Nemerovsky
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Ramat-Aviv, Tel-Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Hadas Bar-Joseph
- The TMCR Unit, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Ramat-Aviv, Tel-Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Anat Eldar-Boock
- The TMCR Unit, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Ramat-Aviv, Tel-Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Rana Tarabeih
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Ramat-Aviv, Tel-Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Cindy Elmechaly
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Ramat-Aviv, Tel-Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Ido Ben-Ami
- IVF and Infertility Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shaare Zedek Medical Center, The Hebrew University Medical School of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 9103102, Israel
| | - Ruth Shalgi
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Ramat-Aviv, Tel-Aviv 69978, Israel
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +972-3-6408685
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10
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Johnson J, Emerson JW, Lawley SD. Recapitulating human ovarian aging using random walks. PeerJ 2022; 10:e13941. [PMID: 36032944 PMCID: PMC9406804 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.13941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Mechanism(s) that control whether individual human primordial ovarian follicles (PFs) remain dormant, or begin to grow, are all but unknown. One of our groups has recently shown that activation of the Integrated Stress Response (ISR) pathway can slow follicular granulosa cell proliferation by activating cell cycle checkpoints. Those data suggest that the ISR is active and fluctuates according to local conditions in dormant PFs. Because cell cycle entry of (pre)granulosa cells is required for PF growth activation (PFGA), we propose that rare ISR checkpoint resolution allows individual PFs to begin to grow. Fluctuating ISR activity within individual PFs can be described by a random process. In this article, we model ISR activity of individual PFs by one-dimensional random walks (RWs) and monitor the rate at which simulated checkpoint resolution and thus PFGA threshold crossing occurs. We show that the simultaneous recapitulation of (i) the loss of PFs over time within simulated subjects, and (ii) the timing of PF depletion in populations of simulated subjects equivalent to the distribution of the human age of natural menopause can be produced using this approach. In the RW model, the probability that individual PFs grow is influenced by regionally fluctuating conditions, that over time manifests in the known pattern of PFGA. Considered at the level of the ovary, randomness appears to be a key, purposeful feature of human ovarian aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua Johnson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado-Anschutz Medical Center, Aurora, Colorado, United States
| | - John W. Emerson
- Department of Statistics and Data Science, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, United States
| | - Sean D. Lawley
- Department of Mathematics, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States
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Hagen-Lillevik S, Johnson J, Siddiqi A, Persinger J, Hale G, Lai K. Harnessing the Power of Purple Sweet Potato Color and Myo-Inositol to Treat Classic Galactosemia. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23158654. [PMID: 35955788 PMCID: PMC9369367 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23158654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Revised: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Classic Galactosemia (CG) is a devastating inborn error of the metabolism caused by mutations in the GALT gene encoding the enzyme galactose-1 phosphate uridylyltransferase in galactose metabolism. Severe complications of CG include neurological impairments, growth restriction, cognitive delays, and, for most females, primary ovarian insufficiency. The absence of the GALT enzyme leads to an accumulation of aberrant galactose metabolites, which are assumed to be responsible for the sequelae. There is no treatment besides the restriction of dietary galactose, which does not halt the development of the complications; thus, additional treatments are sorely needed. Supplements have been used in other inborn errors of metabolism but are not part of the therapeutic regimen for CG. The goal of this study was to test two generally recognized as safe supplements (purple sweet potato color (PSPC) and myo-inositol (MI)) that may impact cellular pathways contributing to the complications in CG. Our group uses a GalT gene-trapped mouse model to study the pathophysiology in CG, which phenocopy many of the complications. Here we report the ability of PSPC to ameliorate dysregulation in the ovary, brain, and liver of our mutant mice as well as positive results of MI supplementation in the ovary and brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Synneva Hagen-Lillevik
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, USA
- Department of Nutrition and Integrative Physiology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, USA
- Correspondence: (S.H.-L.); (K.L.); Tel.: +1-253-592-8692 (S.H.-L.)
| | - Joshua Johnson
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Anwer Siddiqi
- College of Medicine, University of Florida, Jacksonville, FL 32209, USA
| | - Jes Persinger
- Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO 80302, USA
| | - Gillian Hale
- Department of Pathology, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
| | - Kent Lai
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, USA
- Department of Nutrition and Integrative Physiology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, USA
- Correspondence: (S.H.-L.); (K.L.); Tel.: +1-253-592-8692 (S.H.-L.)
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