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Zha Y, Li Y, Lyu W. Research progress on the prevention and treatment of chemotherapy-induced ovarian damage. Zhejiang Da Xue Xue Bao Yi Xue Ban 2024:1-9. [PMID: 38742393 DOI: 10.3724/zdxbyxb-2023-0495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Chemotherapy is a main treatment option for malignant tumors, but it may cause various adverse effects, including dysfunction of female endocrine and fertility. Chemotherapy-induced ovarian damage has been concerned, apart from ovarian preservation, the prevention and treatment of ovarian dysfunction are widely studied. In this article, the mechanisms of ovarian injury caused by chemotherapy, including the apoptosis of follicle and supporting cells, follicle "burn out", ovarian stromal and microvascular damage; and influencing factors, including age at diagnosis and initial low pre-treatment anti-Müllerian hormone levels, toxicity, dose and regimen of chemotherapy drugs are reviewed based on the latest research results and clinical practice. The article also discusses measures and frontier therapies for prevention and treatment of ovarian injury, including the application of gonadotropin releasing hormone agonists or antagonists, tyrosine kinase inhibitors, antioxidants, sphingosine-1-phosphate, ceramide-1-phosphate, mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitors, granulocyte-colony stimulating factor, stem cell therapy and artificial ovary, etc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuxin Zha
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310006, China.
| | - Yang Li
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310006, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hangzhou 310006, China
| | - Weiguo Lyu
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310006, China.
- Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hangzhou 310006, China.
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Women's Reproductive Health, Hangzhou 310006, China.
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Tanaka Y, Amano T, Nakamura A, Yoshino F, Takebayashi A, Takahashi A, Yamanaka H, Inatomi A, Hanada T, Yoneoka Y, Tsuji S, Murakami T. Rapamycin prevents cyclophosphamide-induced ovarian follicular loss and potentially inhibits tumour proliferation in a breast cancer xenograft mouse model. Hum Reprod 2024:deae085. [PMID: 38734930 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deae085] [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: 09/09/2023] [Revised: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION To what extent and via what mechanism does the concomitant administration of rapamycin (a follicle activation pathway inhibitor and antitumour agent) and cyclophosphamide (a highly toxic ovarian anticancer agent) prevent cyclophosphamide-induced ovarian reserve loss and inhibit tumour proliferation in a breast cancer xenograft mouse model? SUMMARY ANSWER Daily concomitant administration of rapamycin and a cyclic regimen of cyclophosphamide, which has sufficient antitumour effects as a single agent, suppressed cyclophosphamide-induced primordial follicle loss by inhibiting primordial follicle activation in a breast cancer xenograft mouse model, suggesting the potential of an additive inhibitory effect against tumour proliferation. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Cyclophosphamide stimulates primordial follicles by activating the mammalian target of the rapamycin (mTOR) pathway, resulting in the accumulation of primary follicles, most of which undergo apoptosis. Rapamycin, an mTOR inhibitor, regulates primordial follicle activation and exhibits potential inhibitory effects against breast cancer cell proliferation. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION To assess ovarian follicular apoptosis, 3 weeks after administering breast cancer cells, 8-week-old mice were randomized into three treatment groups: control, cyclophosphamide, and cyclophosphamide + rapamycin (Cy + Rap) (n = 5 or 6 mice/group). Mice were treated with rapamycin or vehicle control for 1 week, followed by a single dose of cyclophosphamide or vehicle control. Subsequently, the ovaries were resected 24 h after cyclophosphamide administration (short-term treatment groups). To evaluate follicle abundance and the mTOR pathway in ovaries, as well as the antitumour effects and impact on the mTOR pathway in tumours, 8-week-old xenograft breast cancer transplanted mice were randomized into three treatment groups: vehicle control, Cy, and Cy + Rap (n = 6 or 7 mice/group). Rapamycin (5 mg/kg) or the vehicle was administered daily for 29 days. Cyclophosphamide (120 mg/kg) or the vehicle was administered thrice weekly (long-term treatment groups). The tumour diameter was measured weekly. Seven days after the last cyclophosphamide treatment, the ovaries were harvested, fixed, and sectioned (for follicle counting) or frozen (for further analysis). Similarly, the tumours were resected and fixed or frozen. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labelling (TUNEL) was performed to examine ovarian follicular apoptosis in the short-term treatment groups. All subsequent experiments were conducted in the long-term treatment groups. Tumour growth was evaluated using the tumour volume index. The tumour volume index indicates the relative volume, compared to the volume 3 weeks after tumour cell injection (at treatment initiation) set to 100%. Tumour cell proliferation was evaluated by Ki-67 immunostaining. Activation of the mTOR pathway in tumours was assessed using the protein extracts from tumours and analysed by western blotting. Haematoxylin and eosin staining of ovaries was used to perform differential follicle counts for primordial, primary, secondary, antral, and atretic follicles. Activation of the mTOR pathway in ovaries was assessed using protein extracts from whole ovaries and analysed by western blotting. Localization of mTOR pathway activation within ovaries was assessed by performing anti-phospho-S6 kinase (downstream of mTOR pathway) immunohistochemistry. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Ovaries of the short-term treatment groups were resected 24 h after cyclophosphamide administration and subjected to TUNEL staining of apoptotic cells. No TUNEL-positive primordial follicles were detected in the control, Cy, and Cy + Rap groups. Conversely, many granulosa cells of growing follicles were TUNEL positive in the Cy group but negative in the control and Cy + Rap groups. All subsequent experimental results were obtained from the long-term treatment groups. The tumour volume index stabilized at a mean of 160-200% in the Cy group and 130% in the Cy + Rap group throughout the treatment period. In contrast, tumours in the vehicle control group grew continuously with a mean tumour volume index of 600%, significantly greater than that of the two treatment groups. Based on the western blot analysis of tumours, the mTOR pathway was activated in the vehicle control group and downregulated in the Cy + Rap group when compared with the control and Cy groups. Ki-67 immunostaining of tumours showed significant inhibition of cell proliferation in the Cy + Rap group when compared with that in the control and Cy groups. The ovarian follicle count revealed that the Cy group had significantly fewer primordial follicles (P < 0.001) than the control group, whereas the Cy + Rap group had significantly higher number of primordial follicles (P < 0.001, 2.5 times) than the Cy group. The ratio of primary to primordial follicles was twice as high in the Cy group than in the control group; however, no significant difference was observed between the control group and the Cy + Rap group. Western blot analysis of ovaries revealed that the mTOR pathway was activated by cyclophosphamide and inhibited by rapamycin. The phospho-S6 kinase (pS6K)-positive primordial follicle rate was 2.7 times higher in the Cy group than in the control group. However, this effect was suppressed to a level similar to the control group in the Cy + Rap group. LARGE SCALE DATA None. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The combinatorial treatment of breast cancer tumours with rapamycin and cyclophosphamide elicited inhibitory effects on cell proliferative potential compared to cyclophosphamide monotherapy. However, no statistically significant additive effect was observed on tumour volume. Thus, the beneficial antitumour effect afforded by rapamycin administration on breast cancer could not be definitively proven. Although rapamycin has ovarian-protective effects, it does not fully counteract the ovarian toxicity of cyclophosphamide. Nevertheless, rapamycin is advantageous as an ovarian protective agent as it can be used in combination with other ovarian protective agents, such as hormonal therapy. Hence, in combination with other agents, mTOR inhibitors may be sufficiently ovario-protective against high-dose and cyclic cyclophosphamide regimens. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Compared with a cyclic cyclophosphamide regimen that replicates human clinical practice under breast cancer-bearing conditions, the combination with rapamycin mitigates the ovarian follicle loss of cyclophosphamide without interfering with the anticipated antitumour effects. Hence, rapamycin may represent a new non-invasive treatment option for cyclophosphamide-induced ovarian dysfunction in breast cancer patients. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was not financially supported. The authors declare that they have no conflict of interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuji Tanaka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan
| | - Tsukuru Amano
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan
| | - Akiko Nakamura
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan
| | - Fumi Yoshino
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan
| | - Akie Takebayashi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan
| | - Akimasa Takahashi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Yamanaka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan
| | - Ayako Inatomi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan
| | - Tetsuro Hanada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan
| | - Yutaka Yoneoka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan
| | - Shunichiro Tsuji
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan
| | - Takashi Murakami
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan
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Huang D, Wu Z, Wu Z, Li N, Hao L, Li K, Zeng J, Qiu B, Zhang S, Yan J. Enhanced Antipediatric Sarcoma Effect of Everolimus with Secukinumab by Targeting IL17A. Mol Cancer Ther 2024; 23:721-732. [PMID: 38295302 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-23-0342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2023] [Revised: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/02/2024]
Abstract
In this study, we explored the therapeutic potential of everolimus, an mTOR inhibitor, in a patient-derived xenograft (PDX) of rhabdomyosarcoma, the most prevalent malignant pediatric sarcoma. In addition, rhabdoid tumor cell line A-204 and Ewings sarcoma cell line A-673 were cultured to assess the in vitro effect of everolimus. Furthermore, the cell-derived xenograft (CDX) of A-673 was established and treated with everolimus in vivo. IHC and Western blotting were performed to detect the expressions of pertinent proteins. Results showed that everolimus intervention had limited inhibitory effect on PDX tumor growth compared with cyclophosphamide. Nevertheless, everolimus treatment significantly influenced the phosphorylation levels of S6 kinase beta 1 (S6K1) and eIF4E-binding protein 1 (p-4E-BP1), resulting in the inhibition of angiogenesis in vitro and in vivo. Interestingly, everolimus led to an upregulation in the level of IL17A in sarcoma cells. Notably, when secukinumab, a mAb of IL17A, was combined with everolimus, it synergistically enhanced the inhibitory effect of everolimus on sarcoma cell proliferation in vitro and on the growth of PDX or CDX xenograft tumors in vivo. Importantly, this combination therapy did not affect the mTOR signaling. These results indicate that everolimus exerts an antipediatric sarcoma effect by inhibiting mTOR signal. However, everolimus induces sarcoma cells to produce IL17A, which promotes tumor cell survival and counteracts its antipediatric sarcoma effect. The combination of secukinumab effectively eliminates the effects of IL17A, thereby improving the therapeutic efficacy of everolimus in the context of pediatric sarcomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Huang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Zhipeng Wu
- Department of General Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Zhengyi Wu
- Department of General Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Nuoya Li
- Department of General Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Liang Hao
- Department of Orthopaedics, Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Kuangfan Li
- Department of General Surgery, The Affiliated Children's Hospital of Nanchang Medical College, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Junquan Zeng
- Department of Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Jinggangshan University, Ji'an, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Bingbing Qiu
- Department of General Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Shouhua Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, The Affiliated Children's Hospital of Nanchang Medical College, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Jinlong Yan
- Department of General Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China
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Ekici M, Ateş MB, Baş-Ekici H, Özgür A. Effect of dexpanthenol on cyclophosphamide-induced ovarian toxicity: a histological and molecular study in rats. Reprod Biomed Online 2024; 48:103778. [PMID: 38492417 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2023.103778] [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: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2024]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Does dexpanthenol work as an effective therapeutic agent against cyclophosphamide (CYC)-induced premature ovarian failure (POF) in rats? DESIGN A total of 28 female Wistar Albino rats were randomly divided into four groups (n = 7 per group). The POF and POF plus dexpanthenol groups were intraperitoneally administered CYC at an initial dose of 50 mg/kg, followed by 8 mg/kg for 14 days. The dexpanthenol and POF plus dexpanthenol groups were both intraperitoneally administered dexpanthenol at a dose of 500 mg/kg/day for 15 days. RESULTS In the group administered CYC, the following was observed: a decrease in the ovarian index; a decrease in the numbers of primordial, primary, secondary and antral follicles; an increase in the number of corpus luteum and atretic follicles; a decrease in proliferation cell nuclear antigen immunoreactivity; a significant reduction in anti-Müllerian hormone and oestradiol levels; and an increase in serum FSH levels compared with controls. Dexpanthenol, on the other hand, reversed these effects. Quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction analyses showed that dexpanthenol increased Bcl-2, Akt1, mTOR, Nrf2 and HO-1 in CYC-induced ovarian tissues, but decreased Bax, Cas3, Hsp27, Hsp70, and Hsp90. Dexpanthenol treatment has a potential for inhibiting the intrinsic apoptotic pathway and oxidative stress levels in ovarian tissues via the downregulation of the mRNA expression of heat shock proteins and the activation of Nrf2/HO-1 pathways. CONCLUSIONS Our findings demonstrated that dexpanthenol is an effective agent against POF caused by CYC; however, further experimental and clinical data are needed to use it effectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehmet Ekici
- Sivas Cumhuriyet University, Veterinary Faculty, Department of Veterinary Physiology, 58140, Sivas, Turkey.
| | - Mehmet Burak Ateş
- Selçuk University, Veterinary Faculty, Department of Veterinary Pathology, 42250, Konya, Turkey
| | - Hacer Baş-Ekici
- Selçuk University, Institute of Health Sciences, Department of Veterinary Anatomy, 42250, Konya, Turkey
| | - Aykut Özgür
- Tokat Gaziosmanpasa University, Artova Vocational School, Department of Veterinary, Medicine, Laboratory and Veterinary Health Program, 60670, Tokat, Turkey
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Ahmadpour S, Moshkdanian G, Rezvani Z, Almasi M. L-carnitine fails to rescue chemotherapy injured ovaries by epigenetic changes of transcription factors. Gene 2024; 901:148128. [PMID: 38181927 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2024.148128] [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: 06/24/2023] [Revised: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 01/07/2024]
Abstract
Cyclophosphamide (CP), as an anti-cancer drug, is frequently used to treat various types of cancer. A decreased number of ovarian follicles impaired normal ovarian function, and subsequent premature ovarian failure (POF) presented as a side effect of cyclophosphamide usage. These events may eventually affect the fertility rate of individuals. The present study showed the effect of cyclophosphamide on ovarian reserves and the protective effect of L-carnitine (LC) as an antioxidant to prevent POF. To design the study, six to eight-week-old NMRI female mice were divided into three groups: control, cyclophosphamide (CP), and cyclophosphamide + L-carnitine (CP + LC). Mice received drugs intraperitoneally (IP) for 21 days. In the following 24 h after the last injection, both ovaries were used to evaluate the expression of Sohlh1 and Lhx8 genes by Real-time PCR. Furthermore, the alteration of Lhx8 promoter methylation was examined by Methylation-sensitive high-resolution melting analysis (MS-HRM). The present data showed the negative effect of CP on regulator genes of oogenesis including Sohlh1 and Lhx8. In addition, an examination of the epigenetic status of the Lhx8 gene showed a change in promoter methylation of this gene following cyclophosphamide injection. Although, L-carnitine is an effective antioxidant in relieving oxidative stress caused by cyclophosphamide and its damage, in the present study, however, the use of L-carnitine failed to protect the ovaries from changes caused by CP injection. So, using cyclophosphamide can alter the expression of folliculogenesis genes through its effects on epigenetic changes and may cause POF. The results of the present study showed that L-carnitine consumption can't protect the ovaries against the adverse effects of CP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Ahmadpour
- Biotechnology Department, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Kashan, Kashan, Iran
| | - Ghazaleh Moshkdanian
- Gametogenesis Sciences Research Center, Institute for Basic Sciences, Kashan University of Medical Science, Kashan, Iran.
| | - Zahra Rezvani
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Kashan, Iran
| | - Majid Almasi
- Gametogenesis Sciences Research Center, Institute for Basic Sciences, Kashan University of Medical Science, Kashan, Iran
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Cai J, Li Y, Zhao B, Bao Z, Li J, Sun S, Chen Y, Wu X. N-Acetylcysteine Alleviates D-Galactose-Induced Injury of Ovarian Granulosa Cells in Female Rabbits by Regulating the PI3K/Akt/mTOR Signaling Pathway. Antioxidants (Basel) 2024; 13:384. [PMID: 38671832 PMCID: PMC11047383 DOI: 10.3390/antiox13040384] [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: 02/05/2024] [Revised: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The ovary plays a crucial role in the reproductive system of female animals. Ovarian problems such as ovarian insufficiency, premature aging, polycystic ovary syndrome, and ovarian cysts may lead to ovulation disorders, abnormal hormone secretion, or luteal dysfunction, thereby increasing the risk of infertility and abortion. Only when the ovarian function and other organs in the reproductive system remain healthy and work normally can female animals be ensured to carry out reproductive activities regularly, improve the pregnancy rate and litter size, promote the healthy development of the fetus, and then improve their economic value. The follicle, as the functional unit of the ovary, is composed of theca cells, granulosa cells (GCs), and oocytes. GCs are the largest cell population and main functional unit in follicles and provide the necessary nutrients for the growth and development of follicles. N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is a prevalent and cell-permeable antioxidant molecule that effectively prevents apoptosis and promotes cellular survival. Over the past few years, its function in boosting reproductive performance in animals at the cellular level has been widely acknowledged. However, its specific role and mechanism in influencing GCs is yet to be fully understood. The objective of this study was to examine the effects of NAC on ovarian damage in female rabbits. For this purpose, D-galactose (D-gal) was first used to establish a model of damaged GCs, with exposure to 1.5 mg/mL of D-gal leading to substantial damage. Subsequently, varying concentrations of NAC were introduced to determine the precise mechanism through which it influences cell damage. Based on the results of the Cell Counting Kit-8 assay, flow cytometry, and Western blotting, it was found that 0.5 mg/mL of NAC could significantly suppress cell apoptosis and promote proliferation. In particular, it decreased the expression levels of Bax, p53, and Caspase-9 genes, while concurrently upregulating the expression of the BCL-2 gene. Moreover, NAC was found to alleviate intracellular oxidative stress, suppress the discharge of mitochondrial Cytochrome c, and boost the enzymatic activities of CAT (Catalase), GSH (Glutathione), and SOD (Superoxide dismutase). RNA sequencing analysis subsequently underscored the critical role of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway in governing proliferation and apoptosis within GCs. These findings demonstrated that NAC could significantly influence gene expression within this pathway, thereby clarifying the exact relationship between the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling cascade and the underlying cellular processes controlling proliferation and apoptosis. In conclusion, NAC can reduce the expression of Bax, p53, and Caspase-9 genes, inhibit the apoptosis of GCs, improve cell viability, and resist D-gal-induced oxidative stress by increasing the activity of CAT, GSH, and SOD. The molecular mechanism of NAC in alleviating D-gal-induced ovarian GC injury in female rabbits by regulating the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway provides experimental evidence for the effect of NAC on animal reproductive function at the cellular level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiawei Cai
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China; (J.C.); (Y.L.); (B.Z.); (Z.B.); (J.L.); (S.S.)
| | - Yunpeng Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China; (J.C.); (Y.L.); (B.Z.); (Z.B.); (J.L.); (S.S.)
| | - Bohao Zhao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China; (J.C.); (Y.L.); (B.Z.); (Z.B.); (J.L.); (S.S.)
| | - Zhiyuan Bao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China; (J.C.); (Y.L.); (B.Z.); (Z.B.); (J.L.); (S.S.)
| | - Jiali Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China; (J.C.); (Y.L.); (B.Z.); (Z.B.); (J.L.); (S.S.)
| | - Shaoning Sun
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China; (J.C.); (Y.L.); (B.Z.); (Z.B.); (J.L.); (S.S.)
| | - Yang Chen
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China; (J.C.); (Y.L.); (B.Z.); (Z.B.); (J.L.); (S.S.)
| | - Xinsheng Wu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China; (J.C.); (Y.L.); (B.Z.); (Z.B.); (J.L.); (S.S.)
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture & Agri-Product Safety, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
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Seok J, Park HS, Cetin E, Ghasroldasht MM, Liakath FB, Al-Hendy A. The potent paracrine effect of umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells mediates mitochondrial quality control to restore chemotherapy-induced damage in ovarian granulosa cells. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 172:116263. [PMID: 38350369 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116263] [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: 12/08/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024] Open
Abstract
The basic principle of chemotherapy is to attack cells with fast growth, and cancer cells are targeted by anticancer drugs because they have a faster growth rate than normal cells. High doses of anticancer drugs may cause an irreversible decline in reproductive capacity, and novel approaches for fertility preservation and/or restoration after anticancer treatment are urgently needed. Here, we provide important insights into the recovery of human reproductive cells damaged by chemotherapy. We performed a detailed screening of the cytokines of various human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) to select superior MSCs. Also, we analyzed the Ovarian granulosa cell (OGC)-)-specific functions for restoring function, apoptosis, and mitochondrial functions to confirm the recovery mechanism in damaged OGCs. As a result, we demonstrated that conditioned media (CM) of Umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (UC-MSCs) could restore the functions of damaged OGCs primarily through antiapoptotic and antioxidant effects. Furthermore, CM changed the phenotype of damaged OGCs to an energetic status by restoring mitochondrial function and enhanced the mitochondrial metabolic activity decreased by chemotherapy. Finally, we demonstrated that the restoration of mitochondrial function in damaged OGCs was mediated through mitochondrial autophagy (mitophagy). Our findings offer new insights into the potential of stem cell-based therapy for fertility preservation and/or restoration in female cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Seok
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, 5841 A. Maryland Ave, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Hang-Soo Park
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, 5841 A. Maryland Ave, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Esra Cetin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hurley Medical Center, Michigan State University, 1 Hurley Plaza, Flint, MI 48503, USA
| | | | - Farzana Begum Liakath
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, 5841 A. Maryland Ave, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Ayman Al-Hendy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, 5841 A. Maryland Ave, Chicago, IL 60637, USA.
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Rosario R, Stewart HL, Spears N, Telfer EE, Anderson RA. Anti-Mullerian hormone attenuates both cyclophosphamide-induced damage and PI3K signalling activation, while rapamycin attenuates only PI3K signalling activation, in human ovarian cortex in vitro. Hum Reprod 2024; 39:382-392. [PMID: 38070496 PMCID: PMC10833070 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dead255] [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: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2024] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION What are the effects of cyclophosphamide exposure on the human ovary and can anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) and rapamycin protect against these? SUMMARY ANSWER Exposure to cyclophosphamide compromises the health of primordial and transitional follicles in the human ovarian cortex and upregulates PI3K signalling, indicating both direct damage and increased follicular activation; AMH attenuates both of these chemotherapy-induced effects, while rapamycin attenuates only PI3K signalling upregulation. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Studies primarily in rodents demonstrate that cyclophosphamide causes direct damage to primordial follicles or that the primordial follicle pool is depleted primarily through excessive initiation of follicle growth. This increased follicular activation is mediated via upregulated PI3K signalling and/or reduced local levels of AMH production due to lost growing follicles. Furthermore, while rodent data show promise regarding the potential benefits of inhibitors/protectants alongside chemotherapy treatment to preserve female fertility, there is no information about the potential for this in humans. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Fresh ovarian cortical biopsies were obtained from 17 healthy women aged 21-41 years (mean ± SD: 31.8 ± 4.9 years) at elective caesarean section. Biopsies were cut into small fragments and cultured for 24 h with either vehicle alone (DMSO), the active cyclophosphamide metabolite 4-hydroperoxycyclophosphamide (4-HC) alone, 4-HC + rapamycin or 4-HC+AMH. Two doses of 4-HC were investigated, 0.2 and 2 μM in separate experiments, using biopsies from seven women (aged 27-41) and six women (aged 21-34), respectively. Biopsies from four women (aged 28-38) were used to investigate the effect of rapamycin or AMH only. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Histological analysis of ovarian tissue was undertaken for follicle staging and health assessment. Western blotting and immunostaining were used to assess activation of PI3K signalling by measuring phosphorylation of AKT and phosphorylated FOXO3A staining intensity, respectively. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Exposure to either dose of 4-HC caused an increase in the proportion of unhealthy primordial (P < 0.0001, both doses) and transitional follicles (P < 0.01 for low dose and P < 0.01 for high dose) compared to vehicle. AMH significantly reduced follicle damage by approximately half in both of the investigated doses of 4-HC (P < 0.0001), while rapamycin had no protective effect on the health of the follicles. Culture with AMH or rapamycin alone had no effect on follicle health. Activation of PI3K signalling following 4-HC exposure was demonstrated by both Western blotting data showing that 4-HC increased in AKT phosphorylation and immunostaining showing increased phosphorylated FOXO3A staining of non-growing oocytes. Treatment with rapamycin reduced the activation of PI3K signalling in experiments with low doses of 4-HC while culture with AMH reduced PI3K activation (both AKT phosphorylation and phosphorylated FOXO3A staining intensity) across both doses investigated. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION These in vitro studies may not replicate in vivo exposures. Furthermore, longer experiment durations are needed to determine whether the effects observed translate into irreparable deficits of ovarian follicles. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS These data provide a solid foundation on which to explore the efficacy of AMH in protecting non-growing ovarian follicles from gonadotoxic chemotherapies. Future work will require consideration of the sustained effects of chemotherapy treatment and potential protectants to ensure these agents do not impair the developmental competence of oocytes or lead to the survival of oocytes with accumulated DNA damage, which could have adverse consequences for potential offspring. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was supported by grants from TENOVUS Scotland, the Academy of Medical Sciences (to R.R.), the Medical Research Council (G1100357 to R.A.A., MR/N022556/1 to the MRC Centre for Reproductive Health), and Merck Serono UK (to R.A.A.). R.R., H.L.S., N.S., and E.E.T. declare no conflicts of interest. R.A.A. reports grants and personal fees from Roche Diagnostics and Ferring Pharmaceuticals, and personal fees from IBSA and Merck outside the submitted work. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roseanne Rosario
- Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Institute for Regeneration and Repair, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Hazel L Stewart
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Institute for Regeneration and Repair, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Norah Spears
- Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Evelyn E Telfer
- Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
- Institute of Cell Biology, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Richard A Anderson
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Institute for Regeneration and Repair, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
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9
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Yurttancikmaz ET, Ozcan P, Tanoglu FB, Tok OE, Timur HT, Cetin C. Protective Effect of Glutathione Administration on Ovarian Function in Female Rats with Cyclophosphamide-Induced Ovarian Damage. Gynecol Obstet Invest 2024; 89:120-130. [PMID: 38253037 PMCID: PMC11126202 DOI: 10.1159/000536055] [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: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We investigated the potential of glutathione to protect ovarian function in rats exposed to cyclophosphamide by measuring serum anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) levels, follicle counts, and related parameters. DESIGN Forty-two adult female Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into six groups and treated with various combinations of cyclophosphamide, glutathione, and sodium chloride. On day 21, the rats were anesthetized, and their ovaries were removed for examination. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Histopathological examination, serum AMH concentrations, follicle counts, AMH-positive staining of follicle percentages were analyzed. Statistical analysis was performed using a one-way analysis of variance and Tukey's test, with significance set at p < 0.05. Secondary measures encompassed histopathological examination and percentages of AMH-positive staining of follicles. RESULTS Significant differences were observed in follicle counts, AMH-positive follicle parameters, and serum AMH concentrations among the six groups. Group 2 (treated with cyclophosphamide) had the lowest primordial, primary, secondary, and antral follicle counts and the highest atretic count. Group 6, treated with cyclophosphamide and 200 mg/kg glutathione, showed improved follicle counts compared to those in group 2. Reducing the glutathione dose to 100 mg/kg was ineffective. LIMITATIONS This was an experimental animal investigation with a comparatively modest sample size. Experimental studies should be conducted to determine the optimal dosage and duration of glutathione therapy. Information gathered from an experimental animal model may not yield precisely similar outcomes in humans; therefore, additional investigations are necessary to examine the impact of glutathione on women experiencing POI. CONCLUSIONS The anti-oxidative protective effect of directly administered glutathione was demonstrated for the first time. Low-dose glutathione was ineffective, whereas a high dose yielded significant ovarian protection against cyclophosphamide. Our findings provide valuable insights for supplementing clinical trials on the protective effects of glutathione against ovarian damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ebru Tansu Yurttancikmaz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Bezmialem University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Pinar Ozcan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Bezmialem University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Fatma Basak Tanoglu
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology Clinic, Caldiran State Hospital, Turkish Ministry of Health, Van, Turkey
| | - Olgu Enis Tok
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine and Research Institute for Health Sciences and Technologies, Istanbul Medipol University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Hikmet Tunc Timur
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Dokuz Eylul University School of Medicine, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Caglar Cetin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Bezmialem University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
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10
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Xie Q, Liao Q, Wang L, Zhang Y, Chen J, Bai H, Li K, Ai J. The Dominant Mechanism of Cyclophosphamide-Induced Damage to Ovarian Reserve: Premature Activation or Apoptosis of Primordial Follicles? Reprod Sci 2024; 31:30-44. [PMID: 37486531 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-023-01294-w] [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: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023]
Abstract
Cyclophosphamide (CPM), a part of most cancer treatment regimens, has demonstrated high gonadal toxicity in females. Initially, CPM is believed to damage the ovarian reserve by premature activation of primordial follicles, for the fact that facing CPM damage, primordial oocytes show the activation of PTEN/PI3K/AKT pathways, accompanied by accelerated activation of follicle developmental waves. Meanwhile, primordial follicles are dormant and not considered the target of CPM. However, many researchers have found DNA DSBs and apoptosis within primordial oocytes under CPM-induced ovarian damage instead of premature accelerated activation. A stricter surveillance system of DNA damage is also thought to be in primordial oocytes. So far, the apoptotic death mechanism is considered well-proved, but the premature activation theory is controversial and unacceptable. The connection between the upregulation of PTEN/PI3K/AKT pathways and DNA DSBs and apoptosis within primordial oocytes is also unclear. This review aims to highlight the flaw and/or support of the disputed premature activation theory and the apoptosis mechanism to identify the underlying mechanism of CPM's injury on ovarian reserve, which is crucial to facilitate the discovery and development of effective ovarian protectants. Ultimately, this review finds no good evidence for follicle activation and strong consistent evidence for apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qin Xie
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
- Department of Reproductive Medicine Center, Xiangyang Central Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Arts and Science, No.136, Jingzhou Road, Xiangcheng District, Xiangyang, 441021, Hubei Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Qiuyue Liao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Lingjuan Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Jing Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Hualin Bai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Kezhen Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
| | - Jihui Ai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
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11
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Huang F, Cao Y, Liang J, Tang R, Wu S, Zhang P, Chen R. The influence of the gut microbiome on ovarian aging. Gut Microbes 2024; 16:2295394. [PMID: 38170622 PMCID: PMC10766396 DOI: 10.1080/19490976.2023.2295394] [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: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Ovarian aging occurs prior to the aging of other organ systems and acts as the pacemaker of the aging process of multiple organs. As life expectancy has increased, preventing ovarian aging has become an essential goal for promoting extended reproductive function and improving bone and genitourinary conditions related to ovarian aging in women. An improved understanding of ovarian aging may ultimately provide tools for the prediction and mitigation of this process. Recent studies have suggested a connection between ovarian aging and the gut microbiota, and alterations in the composition and functional profile of the gut microbiota have profound consequences on ovarian function. The interaction between the gut microbiota and the ovaries is bidirectional. In this review, we examine current knowledge on ovary-gut microbiota crosstalk and further discuss the potential role of gut microbiota in anti-aging interventions. Microbiota-based manipulation is an appealing approach that may offer new therapeutic strategies to delay or reverse ovarian aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feiling Huang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, National Clinical Research Center for Obstetric & Gynecologic Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Ying Cao
- School of Medicine, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Jinghui Liang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, National Clinical Research Center for Obstetric & Gynecologic Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Ruiyi Tang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, National Clinical Research Center for Obstetric & Gynecologic Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Si Wu
- School of Medicine, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Peng Zhang
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Genetics of Birth Defects, Beijing Pediatric Research Institute; MOE Key Laboratory of Major Diseases in Children; Rare Disease Center, Beijing Children’s Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Rong Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, National Clinical Research Center for Obstetric & Gynecologic Diseases, Beijing, China
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12
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Lin J, Wu Z, Zheng Y, Shen Z, Gan Z, Ma S, Liu Y, Xiong F. Plasma-derived exosomal miRNA profiles reveal potential epigenetic pathogenesis of premature ovarian failure. Hum Genet 2023:10.1007/s00439-023-02618-1. [PMID: 38054996 DOI: 10.1007/s00439-023-02618-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023]
Abstract
The role of plasma-derived exosomal miRNA in premature ovarian failure (POF) remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the epigenetic pathogenesis of POF through exosomal miRNA sequencing. Exosomes were isolated and characterized from six POF patients and four healthy individuals using nanoparticle tracking analysis, transmission electron microscopy and western blot analysis. Exosomal miRNA sequencing was performed to identify differentially expressed miRNAs with |fold change| greater than 1.5 and p value less than 0.05. Bioinformatics analysis in GSE39501 dataset and our sequencing data was conducted to investigate underlying mechanisms of POF. The functional role of hsa-miR-19b-3p was assessed using CCK8, western blot, flow cytometry and fluorescence staining. The regulatory effect of hsa-miR-19b-3p on BMPR2 was investigated through miRNA transfection, qPCR analysis, and luciferase reporter assay. Statistical significance was determined using t-tests and one-way ANOVA (p < 0.05). Exosomal miRNA sequencing revealed 18 dysregulated miRNAs in POF patients compared to healthy controls. Functional enrichment analysis demonstrated their involvement in cell growth, oocyte meiosis and PI3K-Akt signaling pathways. Moreover, the constructed miRNA-mRNA network unveiled potential regulatory mechanisms underlying POF, particularly implicating hsa-miR-19b-3p in the regulation of BMPR2. In vitro assays conducted on KGN cells confirmed that hsa-miR-19b-3p promoted apoptosis, as evidenced by reduced cell viability, decayed mitochondrial membrane potential and increased apoptotic rate, thereby supporting its role in POF. Notably, hsa-miR-19b-3p was found to significantly downregulate BMPR2 expression via targeting its 3'UTR, while co-expression analysis revealed strong associations between BMPR2 and POF-related processes. This study sheds light on the epigenetic pathogenesis of POF by investigating exosomal miRNA profiles. Particularly, hsa-miR-19b-3p emerged as a potential regulator of BMPR2 and demonstrated its functional significance in POF through modulation of apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaqiong Lin
- Dongguan Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Postdoctoral Innovation Practice Base of Southern Medical University, Dongguan, China
| | - Zhihong Wu
- Shenzhen Hospital of Southern Medical University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Yingchun Zheng
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zongrui Shen
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhongzhi Gan
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shunfei Ma
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yanhui Liu
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China.
| | - Fu Xiong
- Department of Medical Genetics/Experimental Education/Administration Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
- Department of Fetal Medicine and Prenatal Diagnosis, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
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13
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Kashi O, Meirow D. Overactivation or Apoptosis: Which Mechanisms Affect Chemotherapy-Induced Ovarian Reserve Depletion? Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16291. [PMID: 38003481 PMCID: PMC10671775 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242216291] [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: 08/13/2023] [Revised: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Dormant primordial follicles (PMF), which constitute the ovarian reserve, are recruited continuously into the cohort of growing follicles in the ovary throughout female reproductive life. Gonadotoxic chemotherapy was shown to diminish the ovarian reserve pool, to destroy growing follicle population, and to cause premature ovarian insufficiency (POI). Three primary mechanisms have been proposed to account for this chemotherapy-induced PMF depletion: either indirectly via over-recruitment of PMF, by stromal damage, or through direct toxicity effects on PMF. Preventative pharmacological agents intervening in these ovotoxic mechanisms may be ideal candidates for fertility preservation (FP). This manuscript reviews the mechanisms that disrupt follicle dormancy causing depletion of the ovarian reserve. It describes the most widely studied experimental inhibitors that have been deployed in attempts to counteract these affects and prevent follicle depletion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oren Kashi
- The Morris Kahn Fertility Preservation Center, Sheba Medical Center, Ramat Gan 5262000, Israel;
| | - Dror Meirow
- The Morris Kahn Fertility Preservation Center, Sheba Medical Center, Ramat Gan 5262000, Israel;
- Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel
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14
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Zhao P, Guo C, Du H, Xiao Y, Su J, Wang X, Yeung WSB, Li G, Wang T. Chemotherapy-induced ovarian damage and protective strategies. HUM FERTIL 2023; 26:887-900. [PMID: 38054300 DOI: 10.1080/14647273.2023.2275764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023]
Abstract
More than 9.2 million women worldwide suffer from cancer, and about 5% of them are at reproductive age. Chemotherapy-induced impairment of fertility affects the quality of life of these women. Several chemotherapeutic agents have been proven to cause apoptosis and autophagy by inducing DNA damage and cellular stress. Injuries to the ovarian stroma and micro-vessel network are also considered as pivotal factors resulting in ovarian dysfunction induced by chemotherapeutic agents. Primordial follicle pool over-activation may also be the mechanism inducing damage to the ovarian reserve. Although many studies have explored the mechanisms involved in chemotherapy-induced reproductive toxicity, the exact molecular mechanisms have not been elucidated. It is essential to understand the mechanisms involved in ovarian damage, in order to develop potential protective treatments to preserve fertility. In this article, we reviewed the current knowledge on the mechanism of chemotherapy-induced ovarian damage and possible protective strategies that prevent the ovary from such damages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peikun Zhao
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Reproductive Medicine Center, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, PR China
| | - Chenxi Guo
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Reproductive Medicine Center, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, PR China
| | - Huijia Du
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Reproductive Medicine Center, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, PR China
| | - Yuan Xiao
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Reproductive Medicine Center, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, PR China
| | - Jiaping Su
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Reproductive Medicine Center, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, PR China
| | - Xiaohui Wang
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Reproductive Medicine Center, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, PR China
| | - Willian S B Yeung
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Reproductive Medicine Center, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, PR China
| | - Guangxin Li
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, PR China
| | - Tianren Wang
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Reproductive Medicine Center, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, PR China
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15
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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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16
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Song Z, Song K, Zhao H, He Y, Hu J. Network analysis and experimental approach to investigate the potential therapeutic mechanism of zishen yutai pills on premature ovarian insufficiency. Heliyon 2023; 9:e20025. [PMID: 37809603 PMCID: PMC10559743 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e20025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2023] [Revised: 08/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Background As society continues to develop, women are more at risk of gonadotoxic substance exposure. Consequently, the incidence of premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) has increased significantly in the past decades. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is recommended as the standard treatment to relieve hypoestrogenic symptoms; however, its potential side effects and contraindications have drawn widespread controversy and concern. As such, the Chinese medicine Zishen Yutai Pill (ZSYTP) commonly used for treating miscarriage and menoxenia, is a highly promising alternative drug candidate against POI, however its therapeutic mechanism has not been completely elucidated. Objective To systematically analyze the potential therapeutic targets of ZSYTP on POI, we combined network pharmacology analysis and molecular docking to predict critical target genes, with experimental validation on POI murine models. Methods The active compounds of ZSYTP were collected from three online databases, and the candidate targets were predicted based on the chemical structure. The POI-related targets were obtained from four databases. A PPI network was constructed to find the key target genes between ZSYTP and POI, while GO and KEGG enrichment analyses were employed to study the mechanism of ZSYTP against POI. The binding capability of the key co-targets with active components was examined by molecular docking. We used a cyclophosphamide (CTX)-inducible POI mouse model to verify our predictions by histopathological observation, immunohistochemical staining (caspase-3, TUNEL assay), hormone determination (FSH, AMH) and ribonucleic acid sequencing (RNA Seq). Progynova was also used to study the difference between ZSYTP and HRT. Result We identified 21 target genes as the hub between ZSYTP and POI. The GO and KEGG analyses revealed that the molecular mechanism of ZSYTP against POI were mainly based on the regulation of gene and protein expression. A variety of signaling pathways may be involved in the treatment of ZSYTP against POI, especially PI3K-AKT, HIF-1 and the AGE-RAGE cascades. Docking simulation showed that G1, C1, SR5, and F1 had relatively lower binding energy. In vivo, ZSYTP significantly reversed CTX-induced ovarian damage in follicle number, hormone level and apoptosis, with an overall improved therapeutic effect compared to Progynova. Results from RNA-Seq revealed that the PI3K-AKT, Hippo, AGE-RAGE, and Rap1 signaling pathways and regulation of inflammation, immune response, and lipid metabolism may mediate the protective effects of ZSYTP against POI, which is different than Progynova's mechanism of action. Conclusions Collectively, this study indicates that ZSYTP could be a highly promising alternative as a non-HRT-based therapy for POI. Its mechanism involves multiple signaling pathways, alleviating ovarian apoptosis and recovering AMH and FSH level. However, the discrepancy between different research techniques highlight the necessity of further experimental verification from other aspects such as translation and posttranslational modification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zifan Song
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Kuangyu Song
- Department of Physiology, Basic Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330006, PR China
| | - Hongru Zhao
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330006, PR China
| | - Yuanqiao He
- Center of Laboratory Animal Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
- Jiangxi Province Key Laboratory of Laboratory Animal, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330031, PR China
- Nanchang Royo Biotech Co,. Ltd, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Jia Hu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
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17
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Cavalcante MB, Sampaio OGM, Câmara FEA, Schneider A, de Ávila BM, Prosczek J, Masternak MM, Campos AR. Ovarian aging in humans: potential strategies for extending reproductive lifespan. GeroScience 2023; 45:2121-2133. [PMID: 36913129 PMCID: PMC10651588 DOI: 10.1007/s11357-023-00768-8] [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: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Ovarian reserve is a term used to estimate the total number of immature follicles present in the ovaries. Between birth and menopause, there is a progressive decrease in the number of ovarian follicles. Ovarian aging is a continuous physiological phenomenon, with menopause being the clinical mark of the end of ovarian function. Genetics, measured as family history for age at the onset of menopause, is the main determinant. However, physical activity, diet, and lifestyle are important factors that can influence the age of menopause. The low estrogen levels after natural or premature menopause increased the risk for several diseases, resulting in increased mortality risk. Besides that, the decreasing ovarian reserve is associated to reduced fertility. In women with infertility undergoing in vitro fertilization, reduced markers of ovarian reserve, including antral follicular count and anti-Mullerian hormone, are the main indicators of reduced chances of becoming pregnant. Therefore, it becomes clear that the ovarian reserve has a central role in women's life, affecting fertility early in life and overall health later in life. Based on this, the ideal strategy for delaying ovarian aging should have the following characteristics: (1) be initiated in the presence of good ovarian reserve; (2) maintained for a long period; (3) have an action on the dynamics of primordial follicles, controlling the rate of activation and atresia; and (4) safe use in pre-conception, pregnancy, and lactation. In this review, we therefore discuss some of these strategies and its feasibility for preventing a decline in the ovarian reserve.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcelo Borges Cavalcante
- Postgraduate Program in Medical Sciences, University of Fortaleza (UNIFOR), Fortaleza, CE, 60.811-905, Brazil.
| | - Olga Goiana Martins Sampaio
- Postgraduate Program in Medical Sciences, University of Fortaleza (UNIFOR), Fortaleza, CE, 60.811-905, Brazil
| | | | - Augusto Schneider
- Nutrition College, Federal University of Pelotas (UFPel), Pelotas, RS, 96010-610, Brazil
| | | | - Juliane Prosczek
- Nutrition College, Federal University of Pelotas (UFPel), Pelotas, RS, 96010-610, Brazil
| | - Michal M Masternak
- Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Central Florida, Orlando FL, USA
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Adriana Rolim Campos
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
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18
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Shang Z, Fan M, Zhang J, Wang Z, Jiang S, Li W. Red Ginseng Improves D-galactose-Induced Premature Ovarian Failure in Mice Based on Network Pharmacology. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24098210. [PMID: 37175917 PMCID: PMC10179375 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24098210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Revised: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
In this study, we evaluated the ameliorative effect and molecular mechanism of red ginseng (Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer) extract (RGE) on D-galactose (D-gal)-induced premature ovarian failure (POF) using network pharmacology analysis. Ginsenosides are important active ingredients in ginseng, which also contains some sugar and amino acid derivatives. We aimed to determine the key proteins through which RGE regulates POF. In this work, we retrieved and screened for active ingredients in ginseng and the corresponding POF disease targets in multiple databases. A PPI network of genes was constructed in the STRING database and core targets were screened using topological analysis. Gene ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment analyses were conducted in R software. Finally, molecular docking was conducted to validate the results. Female ICR mice were used to establish a POF mouse model for in vivo experiments. Serum levels of relevant estrogens were determined using ELISA and expression levels of relevant proteins in ovarian tissues were detected using immunofluorescence and western blot analysis. Network pharmacology analysis predicted that PI3K, Akt, Bax, Bcl-2, p16, and other proteins were highly correlated with POF and RGE. The results clearly showed that RGE could increase estradiol (E2) and lower follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels in D-gal-fed mice. RGE restored the expression levels of related proteins by reducing Nrf2-mediated oxidative stress, PI3K/Akt-mediated apoptosis, and senescence signaling pathways. Overall, RGE has the potential to prevent and treat POF and is likely to be a promising natural protector of the ovaries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zijing Shang
- College of Chinese Medicinal Materials, National & Local Joint Engineering Research Center for Ginseng Breeding and Development, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China
| | - Meiling Fan
- College of Animal Medicine, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China
| | - Jingtian Zhang
- College of Chinese Medicinal Materials, National & Local Joint Engineering Research Center for Ginseng Breeding and Development, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China
| | - Zi Wang
- College of Chinese Medicinal Materials, National & Local Joint Engineering Research Center for Ginseng Breeding and Development, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China
| | - Shuang Jiang
- College of Chinese Medicinal Materials, National & Local Joint Engineering Research Center for Ginseng Breeding and Development, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China
| | - Wei Li
- College of Chinese Medicinal Materials, National & Local Joint Engineering Research Center for Ginseng Breeding and Development, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China
- College of Life Sciences, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China
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19
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Celik S, Ozkavukcu S, Celik-Ozenci C. Recombinant anti-Mullerian hormone treatment attenuates primordial follicle loss after ovarian cryopreservation and transplantation. J Assist Reprod Genet 2023; 40:1117-1134. [PMID: 36856968 PMCID: PMC10239422 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-023-02754-7] [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: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The foremost drawback of ovarian tissue cryopreservation and re-transplantation (OTCT) technique is the rapid loss of the primordial follicle (PF) pool. In recent studies, we have demonstrated that post-transplantation burnout of the PFs occurs due to the altered expression of the activatory and inhibitory proteins that control PF reserve, and rapamycin prevented it. METHODS Here, we investigated whether anti-Mullerian hormone administration in the bilateral oophorectomy and transplantation group and internal AMH in the unilateral oophorectomy and transplantation group protect follicle reserve by regulating the expression of the molecules that control follicle growth after OTCT in mice. RESULTS After 14 days of OTCT, PF reserve is significantly reduced in both unilateral oophorectomy and transplantation and bilateral oophorectomy and transplantation groups, while anti-Mullerian hormone treatment attenuates PF loss after bilateral oophorectomy and transplantation. The expression of KitL, Bmp-15, and p27 decreased after unilateral oophorectomy and transplantation and bilateral oophorectomy and transplantation, yet recombinant anti-Mullerian hormone treatment did not restore the expression of these proteins in the BLO-T group. CONCLUSION Exogenous recombinant anti-Mullerian hormone administration in the BLO-T group preserved the expressions of Tsc1 and Gdf-9 in PF and p-s6k and Gdf-9 in growing follicles after OTCT. Nonetheless, recombinant anti-Mullerian hormone administration did not affect granulosa cell proliferation and death rates in the growing follicles. These findings suggest a novel hormonal replacement strategy for fertility preservation by restoring anti-Mullerian hormone to regulate Tsc1 and p-s6k, thereby linking this hormone with the mTOR pathway and Gdf-9 signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soner Celik
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Akdeniz University, 07070, Antalya, Turkey
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Sinan Ozkavukcu
- School of Medicine, Ninewells Hospital, University of Dundee, Assisted Conception Unit, DD2 1SG, Dundee, Scotland
| | - Ciler Celik-Ozenci
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Koc University Medical Faculty, Koc University, Rumelifeneri Yolu 34450, Sariyer, Istanbul, Turkey.
- Koç University Research Center for Translational Medicine (KUTTAM), Koc University, Istanbul, Turkey.
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20
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Reynolds AC, McKenzie LJ. Cancer Treatment-Related Ovarian Dysfunction in Women of Childbearing Potential: Management and Fertility Preservation Options. J Clin Oncol 2023; 41:2281-2292. [PMID: 36888938 PMCID: PMC10115556 DOI: 10.1200/jco.22.01885] [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: 08/17/2022] [Revised: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/10/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To review the complex concerns of oncofertility created through increased cancer survivorship and the long-term effects of cancer treatment in young adults. DESIGN Review chemotherapy-induced ovarian dysfunction, outline how fertility may be addressed before treatment initiation, and discuss barriers to oncofertility treatment and guidelines for oncologists to provide this care to their patients. CONCLUSION In women of childbearing potential, ovarian dysfunction resulting from cancer therapy has profound short- and long-term implications. Ovarian dysfunction can manifest as menstrual abnormalities, hot flashes, night sweats, impaired fertility, and in the long term, increased cardiovascular risk, bone mineral density loss, and cognitive deficits. The risk of ovarian dysfunction varies between drug classes, number of received lines of therapy, chemotherapy dosage, patient age, and baseline fertility status. Currently, there is no standard clinical practice to evaluate patients for their risk of developing ovarian dysfunction with systemic therapy or means to address hormonal fluctuations during treatment. This review provides a clinical guide to obtain a baseline fertility assessment and facilitate fertility preservation discussions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Laurie J. McKenzie
- Baylor College of Medicine Houston, Houston, TX
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
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21
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Alesi LR, Nguyen QN, Stringer JM, Winship AL, Hutt KJ. The future of fertility preservation for women treated with chemotherapy. REPRODUCTION AND FERTILITY 2023; 4:RAF-22-0123. [PMID: 37068157 PMCID: PMC10235927 DOI: 10.1530/raf-22-0123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Cytotoxic chemotherapies have been a mainstay of cancer treatment, but are associated with numerous systemic adverse effects, including impacts to fertility and endocrine health. Irreversible ovarian damage and follicle depletion are side-effects of chemotherapy that can lead to infertility and premature menopause, both being major concerns of young cancer patients. Notably, many women will proceed with fertility preservation, but unfortunately existing strategies don't entirely solve the problem. Most significantly, oocyte and embryo freezing do not prevent cancer treatment-induced ovarian damage from occurring, which may result in the impairment of long-term hormone production. Unfortunately, loss of endogenous endocrine function is not fully restored by hormone replacement therapy. Additionally, while GnRH agonists are standard care for patients receiving alkylating chemotherapy to lessen the risk of premature menopause, their efficacy is incomplete. The lack of more broadly effective options stems, in part, from our poor understanding of how different treatments damage the ovary. Here, we summarise the impacts of two commonly utilised chemotherapies - cyclophosphamide and cisplatin - on ovarian function and fertility, and discuss the mechanisms underpinning this damage. Additionally, we critically analyse current research avenues in the development of novel fertility preservation strategies, with a focus on fertoprotective agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren R Alesi
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Quynh-Nhu Nguyen
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Paediatric Integrated Cancer Service, VIC, Australia
| | - Jessica M Stringer
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Amy L Winship
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Karla J Hutt
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
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22
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Sellami I, Beau I, Sonigo C. Chemotherapy and female fertility. ANNALES D'ENDOCRINOLOGIE 2023; 84:382-387. [PMID: 36967045 DOI: 10.1016/j.ando.2023.03.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/14/2023]
Abstract
Chemotherapy to treat cancer is usually responsible for early ovarian follicle depletion. Ovarian damage induced by cancer treatments frequently results in infertility in surviving patients of childbearing age. Several fertility preservation techniques have been developed. Nowadays, oocyte or embryo cryopreservation with or without ovarian stimulation and cryopreservation of the ovarian cortex are the most commonly used. However, these methods may be difficult to implement in some situations, and subsequent use of the cryopreserved germ cells remains uncertain, with no guarantee of pregnancy. Improved knowledge of the molecular mechanisms and signaling pathways involved in chemotherapy-induced ovarian damage is therefore necessary, to develop new strategies for fertility preservation. The effects of various chemotherapies have been studied in animal models or in vitro on ovarian cultures, suggesting various mechanisms of gonadotoxicity. Today the challenge is to develop molecules and techniques to limit the negative impact of chemotherapy on the ovaries, using experimental models, especially in animals. In this review, the various theories concerning ovarian damage induced by chemotherapy will be reviewed and emerging approaches for ovarian protection will be explained.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ines Sellami
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Fertility Preservation, Université Paris-Saclay, Assistance publique Hôpitaux de Paris, Antoine Beclere Hospital, 92140, Clamart, France; Université Paris Saclay, Inserm, physiologie et physiopathologie endocrinienne, 94276, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - Isabelle Beau
- Université Paris Saclay, Inserm, physiologie et physiopathologie endocrinienne, 94276, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - Charlotte Sonigo
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Fertility Preservation, Université Paris-Saclay, Assistance publique Hôpitaux de Paris, Antoine Beclere Hospital, 92140, Clamart, France; Université Paris Saclay, Inserm, physiologie et physiopathologie endocrinienne, 94276, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France.
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23
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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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24
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Lee P, Zhou C, Hu X. VX-765 has a Protective Effect on Mice with Ovarian Injury Caused by Chemotherapy. Curr Cancer Drug Targets 2023; 23:307-318. [PMID: 36200259 DOI: 10.2174/1568009622666220930110024] [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: 03/21/2022] [Revised: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Malignant tumors continue to remain a main global public health issue. In the past 40 years, due to strides made in multi-disciplinary comprehensive treatment schemes for patients suffering from malignant tumors, especially chemotherapy schemes, the survival rate has been greatly improved in such patients. This group can be expected to maintain their fertility or have restored endocrine function following successful malignant tumor treatment. Therefore, focusing on the ovarian damage caused by chemotherapy in women of childbearing age is vital in order to protect their fertility and improve their quality of life. OBJECTIVE This study attempted to evaluate whether VX-765 possesses an ovarian protective effect in ovarian injury induced by chemotherapy in the mice model. METHODS Female C57BL/6J mice were administered with VX-765 gavage once a day for 21 consecutive days. Use of cyclophosphamide (Cy) began one week after the last gavage administration of VX- 765. Detailed classification of follicles at various levels was then quantified in each group. Immunohistochemistry and Western blot analysis were then used in order to analyze the expression of key proteins (FOXO3a, mTOR, RPS6 and AKT) as well as their phosphorylation of the PI3K / PTEN / AKT pathways in the ovary. The concentrations of AMH were measured by ELISA. RESULTS The follicles at all levels of Cy treated mice were less than those of the normal group (P < 0.05). Meanwhile, mice treated with VX-765 prior to receiving Cy treatment had more primordial follicles (PMF) than mice treated with Cy alone (P < 0.05). In early growing follicles (EGF) and antral follicles (AF), no difference was observed among the experimental groups (P > 0.05), however, they were lower than those in the normal group (P < 0.05). In mice treated with continuous Cy, the total follicle number (TF) of mice combined with VX-765 (C-Cy-Vx765) was higher than that of mice without VX-765, and the TF of the two groups was lower than that of the normal group (P < 0.05). The value of PMF/TF in C-Cy-Vx765 group was significantly higher than that in the other three groups, while that of EGF/TF was significantly lower (P < 0.05). Immunohistochemical results showed that the phosphorylated forms of the main proteins of the PI3K / PTEN / AKT pathway were found to be more positive in Cy treated mice. The Western blot analysis showed that when Cy and VX-765 were cotreated, the increased levels of these phosphorylated proteins decreased compared with those treated with Cy alone. The AMH level of infancy Cy and VX-765 co-treated mice was higher than that of infancy normal mice (P < 0.05). After the mice grew to sexual maturity, the AMH level of Cy and VX- 765 co-treated mice was still higher than that of Cy treated mice (P < 0.05), and there was no significant difference with normal mice (P > 0.05). CONCLUSION VX-765 can maintain the level of AMH and inhibit the recruitment of PMF, thus protecting mice from Cy induced gonadotropic toxicity. Accordingly, VX-765 may play a protective role in mice with ovarian injury caused by chemotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pingyin Lee
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Canquan Zhou
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaokun Hu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
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25
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Al-Shahat A, Hulail MAE, Soliman NMM, Khamis T, Fericean LM, Arisha AH, Moawad RS. Melatonin Mitigates Cisplatin-Induced Ovarian Dysfunction via Altering Steroidogenesis, Inflammation, Apoptosis, Oxidative Stress, and PTEN/PI3K/Akt/mTOR/AMPK Signaling Pathway in Female Rats. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:2769. [PMID: 36559263 PMCID: PMC9786155 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14122769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Revised: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Ovarian damage and fertility impairment are major side effects of chemotherapy in pre-menopausal cancer patients. Cisplatin is a widely used chemotherapeutic drug. The present study was designed to assess the ameliorative effects of melatonin as an adjuvant for fertility preservation. Thirty-two adult female Wistar rats were divided randomly into four equal groups: Control, Melatonin, Cisplatin (CP) treated, and CP + Melatonin treated. The cisplatin-treated group showed decreased body and ovarian weights, decreased serum E2 and AMH, increased serum LH and FSH, reduced ovarian levels of SOD, CAT, GSH, and TAC, and increased ovarian MDA. The histopathological examination of the cisplatin-treated group showed deleterious changes within ovarian tissue in the form of damaged follicles and corpus luteum, hemorrhage, and inflammatory infiltrates with faint PAS reaction in zona pellucida, increased ovarian collagen deposition, and marked expression of caspase-3 immune reaction in granulosa and theca cells, stroma, and oocytes. Alongside, there was a significant downregulation in the mRNA expression of steroidogenic enzymes, IL10, AMPK, PI3K, AKT, mTOR, and PTEN, while TGF-β1, IL1β, IL6, TNF-α, NF-Kβ, P53, p38-MAPK, JNK, and FOXO3 mRNA expressions were upregulated in cisplatin-treated rats' ovarian tissue. Coadministration of cisplatin-treated rats with melatonin reversed these changes significantly. In conclusion, melatonin's antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic activities could modulate ovarian disturbances induced by cisplatin and preserve fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amal Al-Shahat
- Human Anatomy & Embryology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44519, Egypt
| | - Mohey A. E. Hulail
- Human Anatomy & Embryology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44519, Egypt
| | - Nada M. M. Soliman
- Human Anatomy & Embryology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44519, Egypt
| | - Tarek Khamis
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44519, Egypt
- Laboratory of Biotechnology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44519, Egypt
| | - Liana Mihaela Fericean
- Biology Department, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Life Sciences “King Michael I of Romania” from Timisoara, Aradului St. 119, 300645 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Ahmed Hamed Arisha
- Department of Animal Physiology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Badr University in Cairo (BUC), Badr City 11829, Egypt
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44511, Egypt
| | - Rania S. Moawad
- Human Anatomy & Embryology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44519, Egypt
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26
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Gonfloni S, Jodice C, Gustavino B, Valentini E. DNA Damage Stress Response and Follicle Activation: Signaling Routes of Mammalian Ovarian Reserve. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232214379. [PMID: 36430860 PMCID: PMC9693393 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232214379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Chemotherapy regimens and radiotherapy are common strategies to fight cancer. In women, these therapies may cause side effects such as premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) and infertility. Clinical strategies to protect the ovarian reserve from the lethal effect of cancer therapies needs better understanding of the mechanisms underlying iatrogenic loss of follicle reserve. Recent reports demonstrate a critical role for p53 and CHK2 in the oocyte response to different DNA stressors, which are commonly used to treat cancer. Here we review the molecular mechanisms underlying the DNA damage stress response (DDR) and discuss crosstalk between DDR and signaling pathways implicated in primordial follicle activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefania Gonfloni
- Department of Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Della Ricerca Scientifica, 00133 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Carla Jodice
- Department of Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Della Ricerca Scientifica, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Bianca Gustavino
- Department of Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Della Ricerca Scientifica, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Elvia Valentini
- Department of Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Della Ricerca Scientifica, 00133 Rome, Italy
- PhD Program in Cellular and Molecular Biology, 00133 Rome, Italy
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Zhang Y, Han D, Yu X, Shao X, Zong C, Zhang M, Wang J, Liang J, Ge P. MiRNA-190a-5p promotes primordial follicle hyperactivation by targeting PHLPP1 in premature ovarian failure. Front Genet 2022; 13:1034832. [PMID: 36406123 PMCID: PMC9669437 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.1034832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2023] Open
Abstract
We previously screened 6 differentially expressed miRNAs in ovarian tissues of 4-vinylcyclohexene diepoxide (VCD)-treated premature ovarian failure (POF) model in SD rats, including miRNA-190a-5p, miRNA-98-5p, miRNA-29a-3p, miRNA-144-5p, miRNA-27b-3p, miRNA-151-5p. In this study, to investigate the mechanisms causing the onset of POF, we first identified miRNAs with earlier differential expression at consecutive time points in the VCD-treated rat POF model and explored the mechanisms by which the target miRNAs promote POF. The SD rats were injected with VCD for 15 days to induce POF. Additionally, we collected rat blood and ovaries at the same time every day for 15 consecutive days, and luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), Anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH), and estradiol (E2) serum levels were detected by ELISA. Six miRNAs expression were measured in rat ovaries by qRT-PCR. Dual-luciferase reporter gene assays were employed to predict and verify the target gene (PHLPP1) of target miRNAs (miRNA-190a-5p). Western blot was examined to detect the expression levels of PHLPP1, AKT, p-AKT, FOXO3a, p-FOXO3a, and LHR proteins on the target gene PHLPP1 and its participation in the primordial follicular hyperactivation-related pathways (AKT-FOXO3a and AKT-LH/LHR). During the VCD modeling POF rat ovaries, miRNA-190a-5p was the first to show significant differential expression, i.e., 6th of VCD treating, and PHLPP1 was verified to be a direct downstream target of it. Starting from the 6th of VCD treatment, the more significant the up-regulation trend of miRNA-190a-5p expression, the more obvious the down-regulation trend of PHLPP1 and LHR mRNA and protein expression, accompanied by the more severe phosphorylation of AKT and FOXO3a proteins, thus continuously over-activating the rat primordial follicle to promote the development of POF. In conclusion, miRNA-190a-5p may become a potential biomarker for early screening of POF, and it can continuously activate primordial follicles in rats by targeting the expression of PHLPP1 and key proteins in the AKT-FOXO3a and AKT-LH/LHR pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuchi Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Shimane University, Izumo, Japan
| | - Dongwei Han
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Xiaoyan Yu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Xinyu Shao
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Qiqihar Medical University, Qiqihar, China
| | - Chuju Zong
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
- Heilongjiang Institute for Drug Control, Harbin, China
| | - Manyu Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Junzhi Wang
- Department of Dermatology, First Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Jingwen Liang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Pengling Ge
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
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Chi YN, Yang JM, Liu N, Cui YH, Ma L, Lan XB, Ma WQ, Liu YJ, Yu JQ, Du J. Development of protective agents against ovarian injury caused by chemotherapeutic drugs. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 155:113731. [PMID: 36179491 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.113731] [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: 07/28/2022] [Revised: 09/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chemotherapy is one of the causes of ovarian injury and infertility. Although assisted reproductive technology helps young female patients with cancer become pregnant, preventing chemotherapy-induced ovarian injury will often possess even more significant benefits. OBJECTIVE We aimed at demonstrating the hazardous effects and mechanisms of ovarian injury by chemotherapeutic agents, as well as demonstrating agents that protect the ovary from chemotherapy-induced injury. RESULTS Chemotherapeutic agents cause death or accelerate activation of follicles and damage to the blood vessels in the ovary, resulting in inflammation. These often require drug development to protect the ovaries from injury. CONCLUSIONS Our findings provide a basis for the development of drugs to protect the ovaries from injury. Although there are many preclinical studies on potential protective drugs, there is still an urgent need for a large number of clinical experiments to verify their potential use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Nan Chi
- Department of Pharmacology, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, China
| | - Jia-Mei Yang
- Department of Pharmacology, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, China; School of Basic Medicine, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, China
| | - Ning Liu
- Key Laboratory of Hui Ethnic Medicine Modernization, the Ministry of Education, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, China
| | - Yan-Hong Cui
- Department of Pharmacology, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, China
| | - Lin Ma
- Department of Pharmacology, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, China
| | - Xiao-Bing Lan
- Department of Pharmacology, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, China
| | - Wen-Qian Ma
- Department of Pharmacology, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, China
| | - Yan-Jie Liu
- Department of Pharmacology, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, China
| | - Jian-Qiang Yu
- Department of Pharmacology, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, China; Ningxia Hui Medicine Modern Engineering Research Center and Collaborative Innovation Center, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, China.
| | - Juan Du
- Department of Pharmacology, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, China.
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Barberino RS, Lins TLBG, Monte APO, Silva RLS, Andrade KO, Campinho DSP, Palheta Junior RC, Smitz JEJ, Matos MHT. Epigallocatechin-3-gallate attenuates cyclophosphamide-induced damage in mouse ovarian tissue via suppressing inflammation, apoptosis, and expression of phosphorylated Akt, FOXO3a and rpS6. Reprod Toxicol 2022; 113:42-51. [PMID: 35981663 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2022.08.010] [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: 12/23/2021] [Revised: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
This study was conducted to evaluate the protective effects of epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) against ovarian toxicity in cyclophosphamide-treated mice and to verify the possible involvement of phosphorylated Akt, FOXO3a and rpS6 in the EGCG actions. Mice received saline solution (i.p.; control) or a single dose of cyclophosphamide (200 mg/kg body weight, i.p.) or mice were pretreated with N-acetylcysteine (150 mg/kg body weight, i.p.; positive control) or with EGCG (5, 25 or 50 mg/kg body weight, i.p.) once daily for three days followed by injection with single dose of cyclophosphamide (200 mg/kg body weight, i.p.). Thereafter, the mice were euthanized, and the ovaries were harvested and destined to histological (follicular morphology and activation), immunohistochemistry (cleaved caspase-3 and TNF-α) and fluorescence (mitochondrial activity and GSH concentrations) analyses. Furthermore, we examined the participation of p-Akt, p-FOXO3a and p-rpS6 in the protective effects of EGCG in cyclophosphamide-induced ovarian damage by immunohistochemical staining. The results showed that pretreatment with N-acetylcysteine or EGCG at 25 and 50 mg/kg before cyclophosphamide administration preserved the normal follicular morphology, prevented primordial follicle loss, reduced atresia, inflammation, and mitochondrial damage, and increased GSH concentrations compared to the only cyclophosphamide treatment. Additionally, pretreatment with 25 mg/kg EGCG regulated phosphorylated Akt, FOXO3a and rpS6 after cyclophosphamide treatment. In conclusion, short-time pretreatment with 25 mg/kg EGCG can prevent follicle loss in cyclophosphamide-treated mice by reducing oxidative damage, inflammation, and apoptosis, and regulating of p-Akt, p-FOXO3a and p-rpS6.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ricássio S Barberino
- Nucleus of Biotechnology Applied to Ovarian Follicle Development, Federal University of São Francisco Valley - UNIVASF, Petrolina, Brazil.
| | - Thae Lanne B G Lins
- Nucleus of Biotechnology Applied to Ovarian Follicle Development, Federal University of São Francisco Valley - UNIVASF, Petrolina, Brazil
| | - Alane P O Monte
- Nucleus of Biotechnology Applied to Ovarian Follicle Development, Federal University of São Francisco Valley - UNIVASF, Petrolina, Brazil
| | - Regina Lucia S Silva
- Nucleus of Biotechnology Applied to Ovarian Follicle Development, Federal University of São Francisco Valley - UNIVASF, Petrolina, Brazil
| | - Kíscyla O Andrade
- Nucleus of Biotechnology Applied to Ovarian Follicle Development, Federal University of São Francisco Valley - UNIVASF, Petrolina, Brazil
| | - Daniela S P Campinho
- Nucleus of Biotechnology Applied to Ovarian Follicle Development, Federal University of São Francisco Valley - UNIVASF, Petrolina, Brazil
| | - Raimundo C Palheta Junior
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pharmacology, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of São Francisco Valley - UNIVASF, Petrolina, Brazil
| | - Johan E J Smitz
- Follicle Biology Laboratory, Free University Brussels - VUB, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Maria Helena T Matos
- Nucleus of Biotechnology Applied to Ovarian Follicle Development, Federal University of São Francisco Valley - UNIVASF, Petrolina, Brazil
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Chen X, Tang Z, Guan H, Xia H, Gu C, Xu Y, Li B, Zhang W. Rapamycin maintains the primordial follicle pool and protects ovarian reserve against cyclophosphamide-induced damage. J Reprod Dev 2022; 68:287-294. [PMID: 35718464 PMCID: PMC9334315 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2022-001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Any abnormal activation of primordial follicles and subsequent depletion can irreversibly diminish the ovarian reserve, which is one of the major chemotherapy-induced adverse effects in young patients with cancer. Herein, we investigated the effects of rapamycin on the activation and development of ovarian follicles to evaluate its fertility-sparing therapeutic value in a cyclophosphamide (CTX)-treated mouse model. Based on ovarian histomorphological changes and follicle counting in 50 SPF female C57BL/6 mice, daily administration of 5 mg/kg rapamycin for 30 days was deemed an ideal dosage and duration for administration in subsequent experiments. Compared with the control group, rapamycin treatment inhibited the activation of quiescent primordial follicles, with no obvious side effects observed. Finally, 48 mice were randomly divided into four groups: control, rapamycin-treated, cyclophosphamide-treated, and rapamycin intervention. Body weight, ovarian histomorphological changes, number of primordial follicles, DDX4/MVH expression, apoptosis of follicular cells, and expression of apoptosis protease-activating factor (APAF)-1, cleaved caspase 3, and caspase 3 were monitored. Co-administration of rapamycin reduced primordial follicle loss and the development of follicular cell apoptosis, thereby rescuing the ovarian reserve after CTX treatment. On analyzing the mTOR signaling pathway, we observed that rapamycin significantly decreased CTX-mediated overactivation of mTOR and its downstream molecules. These findings suggest that rapamycin exhibits potential as an ovarian-protective agent that could maintain the ovarian primordial follicle pool and preserve fertility in young female patients with cancer undergoing chemotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiuying Chen
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Zhijing Tang
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Haiyun Guan
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Hexia Xia
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Chao Gu
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Yan Xu
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Bin Li
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Shanghai 200011, China
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Cioffi R, Cervini L, Taccagni G, Papaleo E, Pagliardini L, Bergamini A, Ferrari S, Mangili G, Candiani M. A prospective, observational study of chemotherapy-induced ovarian damage on follicular reserve and maturation. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2022; 306:1723-1729. [PMID: 35833992 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-022-06692-0] [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: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 06/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chemotherapy negatively affects gonadal function, often resulting in premature ovarian failure (POF) due to ovarian reserve depletion. Mechanisms of gonadotoxicity, such as primordial follicle overactivation and "burnout", remain to be established. Ovarian tissue cryopreservation (OTC) before treatment plays an important role in safeguarding fertility. METHODS This is a prospective observational study that aims to evaluate the feasibility of OTC after chemotherapeutic treatment initiation. Patients were divided into 2 groups depending on whether they received chemotherapy before the harvesting procedure (Group 1) or not (Group 2). The main outcomes of this study are serum anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) levels and histological follicular counts on ovarian tissue biopsies. RESULTS Between 2012 and 2020, 79 patients underwent OTC at our Hospital. Follicular counts from the ovarian biopsies of 30 post-pubertal patients and respective serum AMH levels were included in the analysis. AMH levels did not significantly differ between the 2 groups (P = 0.70) as well as the number of primordial follicles (P = 0.73). Ovarian biopsies of patients from Group 1 showed a higher number of primary follicles (P = 0.04) and atretic follicles (P = 0.05) with respect to Group 2. CONCLUSIONS In conclusion, OTC appears to be feasible even after the start of chemotherapeutic treatment, since in treated patients, the main ovarian reserve indicators (number of primordial follicles and serum AMH levels) were not significantly reduced compared to untreated patients. The "burnout" theory of chemotherapeutic damage to the ovary seems to be supported by the higher number of primary follicles found in the ovaries of patients who received chemotherapy before OTC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raffaella Cioffi
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Via Olgettina 60, 20132, Milan, Italy.
| | - Laura Cervini
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Via Olgettina 60, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Gianluca Taccagni
- Pathology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Enrico Papaleo
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Via Olgettina 60, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Luca Pagliardini
- Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, Reproductive Sciences Laboratory, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Alice Bergamini
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Via Olgettina 60, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Stefano Ferrari
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Via Olgettina 60, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Giorgia Mangili
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Via Olgettina 60, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Massimo Candiani
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Via Olgettina 60, 20132, Milan, Italy
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Barberino RS, Silva RLS, Palheta Junior RC, Smitz JEJ, Matos MHT. Protective Effects of Antioxidants on Cyclophosphamide-Induced Ovarian Toxicity. Biopreserv Biobank 2022; 21:121-141. [PMID: 35696235 DOI: 10.1089/bio.2021.0159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The most common limitation of anticancer chemotherapy is the injury to normal cells. Cyclophosphamide, which is one of the most widely used alkylating agents, can cause premature ovarian insufficiency and infertility since the ovarian follicles are extremely sensitive to their effects. Although little information is available about the pathogenic mechanism of cyclophosphamide-induced ovarian damage, its toxicity is attributed to oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis. The use of compounds with antioxidant and cytoprotective properties to protect ovarian function from deleterious effects during chemotherapy would be a significant advantage. Thus, this article reviews the mechanism by which cyclophosphamide exerts its toxic effects on the different cellular components of the ovary, and describes 24 cytoprotective compounds used to ameliorate cyclophosphamide-induced ovarian injury and their possible mechanisms of action. Understanding these mechanisms is essential for the development of efficient and targeted pharmacological complementary therapies that could protect and prolong female fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ricássio S Barberino
- Nucleus of Biotechnology Applied to Ovarian Follicle Development, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of São Francisco Valley-UNIVASF, Petrolina, Brazil
| | - Regina Lucia S Silva
- Nucleus of Biotechnology Applied to Ovarian Follicle Development, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of São Francisco Valley-UNIVASF, Petrolina, Brazil
| | - Raimundo C Palheta Junior
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pharmacology, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of São Francisco Valley-UNIVASF, Petrolina, Brazil
| | - Johan E J Smitz
- Follicle Biology Laboratory, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Free University Brussels-VUB, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Maria Helena T Matos
- Nucleus of Biotechnology Applied to Ovarian Follicle Development, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of São Francisco Valley-UNIVASF, Petrolina, Brazil
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Mechanical stress-induced Hippo signaling in respect to primordial follicle development and polycystic ovary syndrome pathogenesis. REPRODUCTIVE AND DEVELOPMENTAL MEDICINE 2022. [DOI: 10.1097/rd9.0000000000000009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
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Aboutalebi H, Alipour F, Ebrahimzadeh-Bideskan A. The protective effect of co-administration of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and pentoxifylline (PTX) on cyclophosphamide-induced premature ovarian failure in mature and immature rats. Toxicol Mech Methods 2022; 32:588-596. [PMID: 35379072 DOI: 10.1080/15376516.2022.2057264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Cyclophosphamide (CP), as an antineoplastic agent, causes premature ovarian failure (POF) due to ovarian toxicity and subsequent infertility in women. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has accumulated significant attention in regenerative medicine. Pentoxifylline (PTX) as a methylxanthine derivative has been shown to have antioxidant and antiapoptotic properties. The aim of this study was to evaluate the protective effect of PRP and PTX on CP-induced POF. Fifty mature and immature female rats were assigned into five groups: control, CP (75 mg/kg, intraperitoneal [ip] on days 1 and 10 to induce POF), CP + PRP (200 μl, ip, half an hour after CP injection on day 1 and 10), CP + PTX (50 mg/kg, orally, half an hour after CP injection daily for 21 day), and CP + PRP + PTX. At the end of experiments on day 21, measurement of body weight, ovarian parameters (ovarian volume, follicular granulosa cell layers diameter, oocyte diameter, and the number of granulosa cells), measurement of ovarian hormone in sera for estradiol (E2), and anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH), as well as biochemical assessment were performed.The results showed that CP significantly reduced the ovarian parameters, E2, AMH, superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and increased Malondialdehyde (MDA) levels compared to the control group (p < 0.001). Our results also indicated that all histomorphometric parameters and biochemical markers in CP-induced POF, were preserved close to normal by PRP and PTX treatments in both mature and immature rats (p < 0.001). Therefore, it is concluded that the co-administration of PRP and PTX can protect the ovary from CP-induced POF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamideh Aboutalebi
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Science, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Alipour
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Science, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Alireza Ebrahimzadeh-Bideskan
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Science, Mashhad, Iran.,Applied Biomedical Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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Effects of Electroacupuncture on the Gut Microbiome in Cisplatin-Induced Premature Ovarian Failure Mice. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2022; 2022:9352833. [PMID: 35321505 PMCID: PMC8938064 DOI: 10.1155/2022/9352833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2021] [Revised: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Growing evidence showed that the gut microbiota was associated with premature ovarian failure (POF). Many clinical types of research had shown that electroacupuncture was effective in the treatment of POF. However, there was little research on regulating the gut microbiome of POF mice by electroacupuncture. Therefore, this study attempted to verify whether electroacupuncture could regulate the gut microbiome in POF mice. POF mice were established by being injected intraperitoneally with cisplatin (2 mg/kg) for 2 weeks. Guanyuan (CV4) and Sanyinjiao (SP6) were selected in the electroacupuncture-at-the-acupoints group (EA group). Nonacupoints around CV4 and SP6 were selected in the electroacupuncture-at-the-nonacupoints group (EN group). The EA group and EN group were treated for 3 weeks. The ovarian function was evaluated by histopathological and molecular assays. Meanwhile, the gut microbiome of all mice was detected by 16S rDNA sequencing. The results showed that EA could restore the estrous cycle and reduce the number of atresia follicles in POF mice. The levels of serum follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone were decreased by EA. As well, the levels of serum estradiol, anti-Mullerian hormone, and β-glucuronidase were increased by EA. The relative expressions of PI3K, AKT, and mTOR were increased to promote the proliferation of ovarian cells in the EA group. According to the results of 16S rDNA sequencing, the abundance and diversity of the gut microbiome could be regulated by EA. The relative abundance of beneficial bacteria was increased by EA. The KEGG pathway analysis showed that the gut microbiome associated with the estrogen signaling pathway, oocyte maturation, and PI3K-AKT signaling pathway was regulated by EA.
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Female Oncofertility: Current Understandings, Therapeutic Approaches, Controversies, and Future Perspectives. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10235690. [PMID: 34884393 PMCID: PMC8658080 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10235690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2021] [Revised: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent advances in early detection and oncological therapies have ameliorated the survival rate of young cancer patients. Yet, ovarian impairment induced by chemotherapy and radiotherapy is still a challenging issue. This review, based on clinical and lab-based studies, summarizes the evidence of gonadotoxicity of chemoradiotherapy, the recent approaches, ongoing controversies, and future perspectives of fertility preservation (FP) in female patients who have experienced chemo- or radio-therapy. Existing data indicate that chemotherapeutic agents induce DNA alterations and massive follicle activation via the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt signaling pathway. Meanwhile, the radiation causes ionizing damage, leading to germ cell loss. In addition to the well-established methods, numerous therapeutic approaches have been suggested, including minimizing the follicle loss in cryopreserved ovarian grafts after transplantation, in vitro activation or in vitro growing of follicles, artificial ovarian development, or fertoprotective adjuvant to prevent ovarian damage from chemotherapy. Some reports have revealed positive outcomes from these therapies, whereas others have demonstrated conflictions. Future perspectives are improving the live birth rate of FP, especially in patients with adverse ovarian reserve, eliminating the risk of malignancy reintroducing, and increasing society’s awareness of FP importance.
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Aloe vera increases collagen fibres in extracellular matrix and mRNA expression of peroxiredoxin-6 in bovine ovarian cortical tissues cultured in vitro. ZYGOTE 2021; 30:365-372. [PMID: 34851249 DOI: 10.1017/s0967199421000824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
In vitro culture of ovarian tissue containing primordial follicles is an important tool to study the initiation of follicular populations and to develop efficient culture systems to support in vitro follicle growth. Considering that in vitro culture favours oxidative stress, it is very important to supplement culture medium with antioxidant substances such as Aloe vera extract. This study aims to evaluate the effects of different concentrations of Aloe vera on the distribution of collagen fibres in the extracellular matrix, follicular activation, development and survival in bovine ovarian cortical tissues cultured in vitro, as well as on expression of mRNAs for antioxidant enzymes [superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), peroxiredoxin 6 (PRDX6) and glutathione peroxidase 1 (GPX1)]. To this end, ovarian cortical tissues were cultured for 6 days in α-MEM alone or supplemented with different concentrations of Aloe vera extract (1.0, 5.0, 10.0 or 50.0%). After culture, fragments were fixed and processed histologically to evaluate follicular morphology and activation, as well as the extracellular matrix by staining with picrosirius red. The levels of mRNA for SOD, CAT, PRDX6 and GPX1 in cultured ovarian tissues were evaluated by real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Ovarian tissues cultured with 10.0 or 50.0% Aloe vera had higher percentages of collagen fibres than tissues cultured in control medium. A significant increase in developing follicles was observed in ovarian tissues cultured in α-MEM alone or supplemented with 10% Aloe vera when compared with fresh control or tissues cultured with 1.0% Aloe vera. Presence of Aloe vera did not influence the percentage of morphologically normal follicles when compared with control medium. Ovarian tissues cultured with 50.0% Aloe vera had higher percentages of morphologically normal follicles than those cultured with 10.0% Aloe vera. Furthermore, 10% Aloe vera significantly increased mRNA levels for PRDX6. In conclusion, 10.0% Aloe vera improves extracellular matrix distribution in cultured tissues and increases the expression of mRNA for PRDX6 after 6 days in vitro.
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Hao X, Anastácio A, Viñals-Ribé L, Santamaria Lacuesta A, Diakaki C, Alonso de Mena S, Liu K, Rodriguez-Wallberg KA. Follicle Rescue From Prepubertal Ovaries After Recent Treatment With Cyclophosphamide-An Experimental Culture System Using Mice to Achieve Mature Oocytes for Fertility Preservation. Front Oncol 2021; 11:682470. [PMID: 34631518 PMCID: PMC8497963 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.682470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Ovarian tissue cryopreservation is the only feasible method for fertility preservation in prepubertal girls that will undergo gonadotoxic chemotherapy. To date, the only clinical use of cryopreserved tissue is by a later tissue retransplantation to the patient. Clinical challenges in fertility preservation of very young patients with cancer include time constraints that do not allow to retrieve the tissue for cryopreservation before starting chemotherapy and the preclusion of future ovarian tissue transplantation due to the risk of reintroduction of malignant cells in patients with systemic diseases. To overcome these two challenges, we investigated using an experimental model the feasibility of retrieving secondary follicles from ovaries of prepubertal mice after cyclophosphamide (CPA) treatment in increasing doses of 50, 75, and 100 mg/kg. The follicles were thereafter cultured and matured in vitro. The main outcomes included the efficiency of the method in terms of obtained matured oocytes and the safety of these potentially fertility preservative procedures in terms of analyses of oocyte competence regarding normality of the spindle and chromosome configurations. Our findings demonstrated that it was feasible to isolate and culture secondary follicles and to obtain mature oocytes from prepubertal mice ovaries recently treated with CPA. The efficiency of this method was highly demonstrated in the 100 mg/kg CPA group, with near 90% follicle survival rate after 12 days' culture, similarly to control. Around 80% of the follicles met the criteria to put into maturation, and more than 40% of them achieved metaphase II, with normal spindle and chromosome configurations observed. Suboptimal results were obtained in the 50 and 75 mg/kg CPA groups. These paradoxical findings towards CPA dose might probably reflect a more difficult selection of damaged growing follicles from ovaries recently treated with lower doses of CPA and a hampered ability to identify and discard those with reduced viability for the culture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xia Hao
- Department of Oncology and Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Laboratory of Translational Fertility Preservation, BioClinicum, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Amandine Anastácio
- Department of Oncology and Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Laboratory of Translational Fertility Preservation, BioClinicum, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Laia Viñals-Ribé
- Department of Oncology and Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Laboratory of Translational Fertility Preservation, BioClinicum, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ana Santamaria Lacuesta
- Department of Oncology and Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Laboratory of Translational Fertility Preservation, BioClinicum, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Christina Diakaki
- Department of Oncology and Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Laboratory of Translational Fertility Preservation, BioClinicum, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Sara Alonso de Mena
- Department of Oncology and Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Laboratory of Translational Fertility Preservation, BioClinicum, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Kui Liu
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Center of Assisted Reproduction and Embryology, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR, China
| | - Kenny A Rodriguez-Wallberg
- Department of Oncology and Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Laboratory of Translational Fertility Preservation, BioClinicum, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Reproductive Medicine, Division of Gynecology and Reproduction, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
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Melatonin Attenuates Cyclophosphamide-Induced Primordial Follicle Loss by Interaction with MT 1 Receptor and Modulation of PTEN/Akt/FOXO3a Proteins in the Mouse Ovary. Reprod Sci 2021; 29:2505-2514. [PMID: 34642909 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-021-00768-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
This study evaluated the protective effect of melatonin before cyclophosphamide administration on ovarian function and its potential mechanism in a mouse model. Two studies were performed. In the first, mice were pretreated with melatonin (10, 20, or 30 mg/kg body weight, i.p.) once daily for 3 days, followed by injection with a single dose of cyclophosphamide (200 mg/kg body weight, i.p.) 30 min after the last melatonin injection. The second study analyzed whether melatonin type 1 and/or 2 receptors mediate the effects of melatonin on the ovary through administration of non-selective MT1/MT2 antagonist (luzindole) or selective MT2 antagonist (4-PPDOT) before the treatment with melatonin plus cyclophosphamide. After treatment groups, the ovaries were harvested and destined to histology, immunohistochemistry, and fluorescence analyses. Lastly, we examined the p-PTEN, p-Akt, and p-FOXO3a participation in the protective effect of melatonin in cyclophosphamide-induced ovarian damage. Results demonstrated that pretreatment with 20 mg/kg melatonin before cyclophosphamide administration showed more morphologically normal follicles, attenuated primordial follicle loss, decreased growing follicle atresia and mitochondrial damage, and increased GSH concentrations. Furthermore, treatment with luzindole blocked the protective effects of melatonin against the damage caused by cyclophosphamide. Additionally, pretreatment with 20 mg/kg melatonin regulated the PTEN/Akt/FOXO3a signaling pathway components after cyclophosphamide treatment. In conclusion, pretreatment with 20 mg/kg melatonin prevented primordial follicle loss and reduced apoptosis and oxidative damage in the mouse ovary during experimental chemotherapy with cyclophosphamide. Furthermore, the MT1 receptor and PTEN/Akt/FOXO3a proteins mediated these cytoprotective effects.
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Liu W, Chen Q, Liu Z, Weng Z, Nguyen TN, Feng J, Zhou S. Zihuai recipe alleviates cyclophosphamide-induced diminished ovarian reserve via suppressing PI3K/AKT-mediated apoptosis. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2021; 277:113789. [PMID: 33422655 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2021.113789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2020] [Revised: 12/28/2020] [Accepted: 01/03/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Zihuai recipe (ZHR), a Chinese herbal prescription, is widely used for the clinical treatment of Diminished ovarian reserve (DOR) infertility. However, little is known regarding its underlying mechanisms of DOR treatment. AIM OF THE STUDY This study aimed to investigate the beneficial effects of ZHR on the treatment of DOR and to reveal the underlying mechanisms. MATERIALS AND METHODS Sixty female 8-week-old Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into the following six groups (n=10 per group): control, DOR, low-dose(2.7 g/kg/day) ZHR (L-ZHR), medium-dose(5.4 g/kg/day), ZHR (M-ZHR), high-dose(10.8 g/kg/day) ZHR (H-ZHR), and hormone replacement therapy (HRT) treatment groups. The DOR model was established in all the groups, except the control group, by a single intraperitoneal injection of 90 mg/kg cyclophosphamide. After the induction of the DOR model, rats were weighed and administered either the relevant dose of ZHR or an equal volume of saline solution (in the control and DOR groups). Rats in the HRT group received estradiol valerate tablets (0.16 mg/kg/day), and with medroxyprogesterone acetate tablets (0.86 mg/kg/day) added on day 4. After 32 days of treatment, the rats were euthanized and the ovaries were collected for sampling. Ovarian morphology was observed by hematoxylin and eosin staining and the number of follicles was counted under a microscope. The serum levels of anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and estradiol (E2) were quantified by ELISA. A TUNEL assay was used to analyze the level of apoptosis of the ovarian cells. The protein expressions of p-PI3K, p-AKT, PI3K, AKT, cleaved caspase-3, BAX, and Bcl-2 were measured by western blotting and immunohistochemistry. Data analysis was performed with SPSS 20.0 software. RESULTS ZHR administration increased the ovarian index and the serum levels of AMH, GnRH, and E2, while lowering those of FSH and LH. ZHR treatment also increased the number of primordial, primary, secondary, and antral follicles, as well as the number of corpora lutea, but decreased the number of atretic follicles. Furthermore, ZHR administration decreased the percentage of TUNEL-positive ovarian cells. After treatment with ZHR, the protein expression levels of p-PI3K/PI3K, p-AKT/AKT, cleaved caspase-3 and BAX were decreased, whereas the level of Bcl-2 was increased. CONCLUSIONS ZHR improved the ovarian reserve in CTX-induced DOR rats. The mechanisms of ZHR on DOR may be mediated through the regulation of gonadal hormones of the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis (HPOA), and the inhibition of PI3K/AKT-mediated apoptosis in granulosa cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiping Liu
- The First Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510405, China
| | - Qi Chen
- The First Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510405, China
| | - Zhidan Liu
- The First Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510405, China
| | - Zhiwei Weng
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510120, China
| | | | - Jiaming Feng
- The First Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510405, China
| | - Shaohu Zhou
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510120, China.
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Zhang Y, Zhang J, Wang S. The Role of Rapamycin in Healthspan Extension via the Delay of Organ Aging. Ageing Res Rev 2021; 70:101376. [PMID: 34089901 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2021.101376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2020] [Revised: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 05/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Aging can not only shorten a healthy lifespan, but can also lead to multi-organ dysfunction and failure. Anti-aging is a complex and worldwide conundrum for eliminating the various pathologies of senility. The past decade has seen great progress in the understanding of the aging-associated signaling pathways and their application for developing anti-aging approaches. Currently, some drugs can improve quality of life. The activation of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling is one of the core and detrimental mechanisms related to aging; rapamycin can reduce the rate of aging, improve age-related diseases by inhibiting the mTOR pathway, and prolong lifespan and healthspan effectively. However, the current evidence for rapamycin in lifespan extension and organ aging is fragmented and scattered. In this review, we summarize the efficacy and safety of rapamycin in prolonging a healthy lifespan by systematically alleviating aging in multiple organ systems, i.e., the nervous, urinary, digestive, circulatory, motor, respiratory, endocrine, reproductive, integumentary and immune systems, to provide a theoretical basis for the future clinical application of rapamycin in anti-aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China; National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China; Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Ministry of Education, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Jinjin Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China; National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China; Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Ministry of Education, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
| | - Shixuan Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China; National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China; Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Ministry of Education, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
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42
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Llarena N, Hine C. Reproductive Longevity and Aging: Geroscience Approaches to Maintain Long-Term Ovarian Fitness. J Gerontol A Biol Sci Med Sci 2021; 76:1551-1560. [PMID: 32808646 PMCID: PMC8361335 DOI: 10.1093/gerona/glaa204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Increases in delayed childbearing worldwide have elicited the need for a better understanding of the biological underpinnings and implications of age-related infertility. In women 35 years and older the incidences of infertility, aneuploidy, and birth defects dramatically increase. These outcomes are a result of age-related declines in both ovarian reserve and oocyte quality. In addition to waning reproductive function, the decline in estrogen secretion at menopause contributes to multisystem aging and the initiation of frailty. Both reproductive and hormonal ovarian function are limited by the primordial follicle pool, which is established in utero and declines irreversibly until menopause. Because ovarian function is dependent on the primordial follicle pool, an understanding of the mechanisms that regulate follicular growth and maintenance of the primordial follicle pool is critical for the development of interventions to prolong the reproductive life span. Multiple pathways related to aging and nutrient-sensing converge in the mammalian ovary to regulate quiescence or activation of primordial follicles. The PI3K/PTEN/AKT/FOXO3 and associated TSC/mTOR pathways are central to the regulation of the primordial follicle pool; however, aging-associated systems such as the insulin-like growth factor-1/growth hormone pathway, and transsulfuration/hydrogen sulfide pathways may also play a role. Additionally, sirtuins aid in maintaining developmental metabolic competence and chromosomal integrity of the oocyte. Here we review the pathways that regulate ovarian reserve and oocyte quality, and discuss geroscience interventions that leverage our understanding of these pathways to promote reproductive longevity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Llarena
- Department of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Sciences, Cleveland Clinic Lerner Research Institute, Ohio
- Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Cleveland Clinic Women’s Health Institute, Ohio
| | - Christopher Hine
- Department of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Sciences, Cleveland Clinic Lerner Research Institute, Ohio
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Li J, Long H, Cong Y, Gao H, Lyu Q, Yu S, Kuang Y. Quercetin prevents primordial follicle loss via suppression of PI3K/Akt/Foxo3a pathway activation in cyclophosphamide-treated mice. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2021; 19:63. [PMID: 33892727 PMCID: PMC8063466 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-021-00743-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 04/11/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chemotherapy improves the survival rates of patients with various cancers but often causes some adverse effects, including ovarian damage, characterised by a decrease in primordial follicle stockpiles. Recent studies have revealed that chemotherapy may stimulate the PI3K signalling pathway, thereby resulting in accelerated primordial follicle activation and a decreased ovarian reserve. Quercetin is an inhibitor of the PI3K pathway; however, its protective effects against chemotherapy-induced follicle loss in mice have not been established. In this study, the effects of quercetin in a mouse model of cyclophosphamide-induced ovarian dysfunction were investigated. METHODS C57BL/6 female mice were used for the study. Paraffin sections of mouse ovaries (n = 30 mice) were stained with haematoxylin and eosin for differential follicle counts. Apoptosis (n = 5 mice per group) was evaluated by TUNEL assay. Immunohistochemical staining for ki67 and Foxo3a (n = 5 mice per group) was performed to evaluate the activation of primordial follicles. The role of the PI3K signalling pathway in the ovaries (n = 45 mice) was assessed by western blotting. RESULTS Quercetin attenuated the cyclophosphamide-induced reduction in dormant primordial follicles. Analysis of the PI3K/Akt/Foxo3a pathway showed that quercetin decreased the phosphorylation of proteins that stimulate follicle activation in cyclophosphamide-induced ovaries. Furthermore, quercetin prevented cyclophosphamide-induced apoptosis in early growing follicles and early antral follicles, maintained anti-Müllerian hormone levels secreted by these follicles, and preserved the quiescence of the primordial follicle pool, as determined by intranuclear Foxo3a staining. CONCLUSIONS Quercetin attenuates cyclophosphamide-induced follicle loss by preventing the phosphorylation of PI3K/Akt/Foxo3a pathway members and maintaining the anti-Müllerian hormone level through reduced apoptosis in growing follicles. Accordingly, quercetin is expected to improve fertility preservation and the prevention of endocrine-related side effects of chemotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianghui Li
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Zhizaoju Road no. 639, Huangpu District, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Hui Long
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Zhizaoju Road no. 639, Huangpu District, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Yanyan Cong
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Zhizaoju Road no. 639, Huangpu District, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Hongyuan Gao
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Zhizaoju Road no. 639, Huangpu District, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Qifeng Lyu
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Zhizaoju Road no. 639, Huangpu District, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Sha Yu
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Zhizaoju Road no. 639, Huangpu District, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
| | - Yanping Kuang
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Zhizaoju Road no. 639, Huangpu District, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
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Rodriguez-Wallberg KA, Hao X, Marklund A, Johansen G, Borgström B, Lundberg FE. Hot Topics on Fertility Preservation for Women and Girls-Current Research, Knowledge Gaps, and Future Possibilities. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10081650. [PMID: 33924415 PMCID: PMC8069871 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10081650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2021] [Revised: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 04/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Fertility preservation is a novel clinical discipline aiming to protect the fertility potential of young adults and children at risk of infertility. The field is evolving quickly, enriched by advances in assisted reproductive technologies and cryopreservation methods, in addition to surgical developments. The best-characterized target group for fertility preservation is the patient population diagnosed with cancer at a young age since the bulk of the data indicates that the gonadotoxicity inherent to most cancer treatments induces iatrogenic infertility. Since improvements in cancer therapy have resulted in increasing numbers of long-term survivors, survivorship issues and the negative impact of infertility on the quality of life have come to the front line. These facts are reflected in an increasing number of scientific publications referring to clinical medicine and research in the field of fertility preservation. Cryopreservation of gametes, embryos, and gonadal tissue has achieved quality standards for clinical use, with the retrieval of gonadal tissue for cryopreservation being currently the only method feasible in prepubertal children. Additionally, the indications for fertility preservation beyond cancer are also increasing since a number of benign diseases and chronic conditions either require gonadotoxic treatments or are associated with premature follicle depletion. There are many remaining challenges, and current research encompasses clinical health care and caring sciences, ethics, societal, epidemiological, experimental studies, etc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenny A. Rodriguez-Wallberg
- Department of Oncology and Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, SE-171 64 Stockholm, Sweden; (X.H.); (A.M.); (G.J.); (B.B.); (F.E.L.)
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Division of Gynecology and Reproduction, Karolinska University Hospital, SE-141 86 Stockholm, Sweden
- Correspondence:
| | - Xia Hao
- Department of Oncology and Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, SE-171 64 Stockholm, Sweden; (X.H.); (A.M.); (G.J.); (B.B.); (F.E.L.)
| | - Anna Marklund
- Department of Oncology and Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, SE-171 64 Stockholm, Sweden; (X.H.); (A.M.); (G.J.); (B.B.); (F.E.L.)
| | - Gry Johansen
- Department of Oncology and Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, SE-171 64 Stockholm, Sweden; (X.H.); (A.M.); (G.J.); (B.B.); (F.E.L.)
| | - Birgit Borgström
- Department of Oncology and Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, SE-171 64 Stockholm, Sweden; (X.H.); (A.M.); (G.J.); (B.B.); (F.E.L.)
| | - Frida E. Lundberg
- Department of Oncology and Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, SE-171 64 Stockholm, Sweden; (X.H.); (A.M.); (G.J.); (B.B.); (F.E.L.)
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Vallet N, Boissel N, Elefant E, Chevillon F, Pasquer H, Calvo C, Dhedin N, Poirot C. Can Some Anticancer Treatments Preserve the Ovarian Reserve? Oncologist 2021; 26:492-503. [PMID: 33458904 DOI: 10.1002/onco.13675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Preventing premature ovarian failure (POF) is a major challenge in oncology. With conventional regimens, cytotoxicity-associated POF involves primordial follicles (PF) pool depletion by apoptosis or overactivation mechanisms, notably mediated by the ABL/TAp63 and PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathways. New anticancer treatments have been designed to target pathways implicated in tumor growth. Although concerns regarding fertility arise with these targeted therapies, we hypothesized that targeted therapies may exert off-tumor effects on PF that might delay POF. We provide an overview of evidence concerning these off-tumor effects on PF. Limitations and future potential implications of these findings are discussed. DESIGN PubMed was searched by combining Boolean operators with the following keywords: fertility, ovarian, follicle, anti-tumoral, cancer, targeted, cytotoxic, and chemotherapy. RESULTS Cisplatin-related PF apoptosis via the ABL/TAp63 pathway was targeted with a tyrosine kinase inhibitor, imatinib, in mice, but effects were recently challenged by findings on human ovarian xenografts in mice. In cyclophosphamide-treated mice, PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway inhibition with mTOR inhibitors and AS101 preserved the PF pool. Proteasome and GSK3 inhibitors were evaluated for direct and indirect follicle DNA damage prevention. Surprisingly, evidence for cytotoxic drug association with PF pool preservation was found. We also describe selected non-anticancer molecules that may minimize gonadotoxicity. CONCLUSION Not all anticancer treatments are associated with POF, particularly since the advent of targeted therapies. The feasibility of associating a protective drug targeting PF exhaustion mechanisms with cytotoxic treatments should be evaluated, as a way of decreasing the need for conventional fertility preservation techniques. Further evaluations are required for transfer into clinical practice. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE Anticancer therapies are associated with infertility in 10%-70% of patients, which is the result of primordial follicles pool depletion. Alone or associated with gonadotoxic treatments, some targeted therapies may exert favorable off-targets effects on the primordial follicle pool by slowing down their exhaustion. Current evidence of these effects relies on murine models or human in vitro models. Evaluation of these protective strategies in humans is challenging; however, if these results are confirmed with clinical and biological data, it not only could be a new approach to female fertility preservation but also would change standard fertility strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Vallet
- Department of Hematology and Cellular Therapy, Tours University Hospital, Tours, France
| | - Nicolas Boissel
- Department of Hematology, Adolescent and Young Adults Unit, Fertility Preservation, Saint Louis Hospital, AP-, HP, Paris, France.,Paris University, Paris, France
| | - Elisabeth Elefant
- Centre de Référence sur les Agents Tératogènes (CRAT), Armand Trousseau Hospital, AP-, HP, Paris, France.,Faculty of Medicine, Sorbonne University, Paris, France
| | - Florian Chevillon
- Department of Hematology, Adolescent and Young Adults Unit, Fertility Preservation, Saint Louis Hospital, AP-, HP, Paris, France
| | - Hélène Pasquer
- Department of Hematology, Adolescent and Young Adults Unit, Fertility Preservation, Saint Louis Hospital, AP-, HP, Paris, France
| | - Charlotte Calvo
- Pediatric Hematology Department, Robert Debré Hospital, AP-, HP, Paris, France
| | - Nathalie Dhedin
- Department of Hematology, Adolescent and Young Adults Unit, Fertility Preservation, Saint Louis Hospital, AP-, HP, Paris, France
| | - Catherine Poirot
- Department of Hematology, Adolescent and Young Adults Unit, Fertility Preservation, Saint Louis Hospital, AP-, HP, Paris, France.,Faculty of Medicine, Sorbonne University, Paris, France
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Huang CC, Chou CH, Yang YS, Ho HN, Shun CT, Wen WF, Chen SU, Chen MJ. Metformin: a novel promising option for fertility preservation during cyclophosphamide-based chemotherapy. Mol Hum Reprod 2021; 27:gaaa084. [PMID: 33543290 PMCID: PMC8494485 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaaa084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2020] [Revised: 11/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Cyclophosphamide (CP) could cause severe gonadotoxicity via imbalanced activation of primordial follicles through PI3K/AKT/mTOR activation. Whether metformin, a widely prescribed anti-diabetes agent with mTOR inhibitory effect, could preserve ovarian function against CP toxicity is unknown. Female C57BL/6 mice were randomized into seven groups (n = 11), including control, CP-alone, CP + metformin, CP + sirolimus or everolimus, metformin-alone and sirolimus-alone groups. The duration of pharmaceutical treatment was 4 weeks. CP treatment significantly impaired ovarian function and fertility in mice. CP + metformin treatment significantly attenuated the gonadotoxicity comparing to CP-alone treatment (primordial follicle count: 17.6 ± 4.2 versus 10.3 ± 2.7 follicles/high-power field; P = 0.027). CP + metformin treatment also tended to increase antral follicular count (5.4 ± 1.1 versus 2.5 ± 1.6 follicles/section), serum AMH levels (4.6 ± 1.2 versus 2.0 ± 0.8 ng/ml) and the litter size (4.2 ± 1.3 versus 1.5 ± 1.0 mice per pregnancy), compared with CP-alone group. Expression of phospho-mTOR and the number of TUNEL-positive granulosa cells increased after CP treatment and decreased in the CP + metformin groups, suggesting the mTOR inhibitory and anti-apoptotic effects of metformin. In in-vitro granulosa cell experiments, the anti-apoptotic effect of metformin was blocked after inhibiting p53 or p21 function, and the expression of p53 mRNA was blocked with AMPK inhibitor, suggesting that the anti-apoptotic effect was AMPK/p53/p21-mediated. In conclusion, concurrent metformin treatment during CP therapy could significantly preserve ovarian function and fertility and could be a promising novel fertility preserving agent during chemotherapy. The relatively acceptable cost and well-established long-term safety profiles of this old drug might prompt its further clinical application at a faster pace.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chu-Chun Huang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei 100, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 100, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Hung Chou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei 100, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Shih Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei 100, Taiwan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fu Jen Catholic University Hospital, New Taipei 243, Taiwan
| | - Hong-Nerng Ho
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei 100, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Medical Genomics and Proteomics, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 100, Taiwan
- Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Tung Shun
- Departments of Forensic Medicine and Pathology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 100, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Fen Wen
- Departments of Pathology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 100, Taiwan
| | - Shee-Uan Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei 100, Taiwan
| | - Mei-Jou Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei 100, Taiwan
- Livia Shangyu Wan Scholar, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 100, Taiwan
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Shai D, Aviel-Ronen S, Spector I, Raanani H, Shapira M, Gat I, Roness H, Meirow D. Ovaries of patients recently treated with alkylating agent chemotherapy indicate the presence of acute follicle activation, elucidating its role among other proposed mechanisms of follicle loss. Fertil Steril 2021; 115:1239-1249. [PMID: 33485607 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2020.11.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2020] [Revised: 11/01/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate mechanisms of primordial follicle (PMF) loss in vivo in human ovaries shortly after alkylating agent (AA) chemotherapy. DESIGN Cohort study. SETTING Tertiary university medical center. PATIENT(S) Ninety-six women aged 15-39 years who underwent ovarian tissue cryopreservation for fertility preservation. INTERVENTION(S) Fresh ovarian tissue samples were harvested from women treated with AA (n = 24) or non-AA (n = 24) chemotherapy <6 months after treatment and age-matched untreated women (n = 48). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Differential follicle counts, time from chemotherapy exposure, immunostaining for apoptosis (cleaved caspase-3) and FOXO3A on tissue harvested within ultrashort time intervals (4-12 days), collagen (Sirius red) and neovascularization (CD34). RESULT(S) AA-treated ovaries had significant loss of PMFs, and significant increase in absolute numbers of growing follicles compared with untreated control ovaries. The number of growing follicles was inversely correlated with time from chemotherapy. Representative staining for FOXO3A observed decreased nuclear localization in PMF oocytes in AA-treated ovaries removed within the ultrashort time interval compared with untreated ovaries. Neither significant loss of PMFs, increase in growing follicles, nor decrease in nuclear FOXO3A were observed in non-AA-treated ovaries. No increased expression of cleaved caspase-3 was seen in PMFs within the ultrashort time interval after AA or non-AA chemotherapy. Significant stromal fibrosis and neovascularization were observed in AA-treated ovaries only after follicle loss had already occurred (4-6 months). CONCLUSION(S) Follicle activation occurs in vivo in ovaries of patients treated with AA, indicating a pathologic mechanism which may contribute to chemotherapy-induced follicle loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Shai
- Morris Kahn Fertility Preservation Center, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer
| | - Sarit Aviel-Ronen
- Department of Pathology and Talpiot Medical Leadership Program, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer; Adelson School of Medicine, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel
| | - Itai Spector
- Morris Kahn Fertility Preservation Center, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer
| | - Hila Raanani
- Morris Kahn Fertility Preservation Center, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer
| | - Moran Shapira
- Morris Kahn Fertility Preservation Center, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer
| | - Itai Gat
- Morris Kahn Fertility Preservation Center, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer
| | - Hadassa Roness
- Morris Kahn Fertility Preservation Center, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer
| | - Dror Meirow
- Morris Kahn Fertility Preservation Center, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer.
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48
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Zhao P, Song Z, Wang Y, Cai H, Du X, Li C, Lv J, Liu X, Guo M, Chen Z. The endothelial nitric oxide synthase/cyclic guanosine monophosphate/protein kinase G pathway activates primordial follicles. Aging (Albany NY) 2020; 13:1096-1119. [PMID: 33291075 PMCID: PMC7835019 DOI: 10.18632/aging.202235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2020] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
In mammals, the well-organized activation of quiescent primordial follicles is pivotal for female reproductive reserve. In the present study, we examined the mechanisms underlying primordial follicle activation in mice. We found that endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) and its downstream effectors, cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) and cGMP-dependent protein kinase G (PKG), were expressed in pre-granulosa cells and promoted primordial follicle activation, oocyte growth and granulosa cell proliferation in neonatal ovaries. Mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) colocalized with PKG in pre-granulosa cells and was essential for eNOS/cGMP/PKG pathway-induced primordial follicle activation. The eNOS/cGMP/PKG pathway was found to stabilize mTOR protein. The mRNA levels of F-box and WD repeat domain containing 7 (FBXW7), an E3 ubiquitin ligase, correlated negatively with mTOR protein levels in neonatal ovaries. FBXW7 bound to and destabilized mTOR protein in pre-granulosa cells in a ubiquitin/proteasome-dependent manner. However, agonists of the eNOS/cGMP/PKG pathway reduced FBXW7 mRNA levels. FBXW7 overexpression suppressed primordial follicle activation and prevented the eNOS/cGMP/PKG pathway from activating primordial follicles and stabilizing mTOR protein. These findings demonstrate that the eNOS/cGMP/PKG pathway activates primordial follicles by suppressing FBXW7-induced ubiquitination of mTOR in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peikun Zhao
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis Research, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zidai Song
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis Research, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yan Wang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis Research, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Han Cai
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Medical College of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Xiaoyan Du
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis Research, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Changlong Li
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis Research, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jianyi Lv
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis Research, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xin Liu
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis Research, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Meng Guo
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis Research, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhenwen Chen
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis Research, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
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Grosbois J, Devos M, Demeestere I. Implications of Nonphysiological Ovarian Primordial Follicle Activation for Fertility Preservation. Endocr Rev 2020; 41:5882019. [PMID: 32761180 DOI: 10.1210/endrev/bnaa020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2020] [Accepted: 07/31/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, ovarian tissue cryopreservation has rapidly developed as a successful method for preserving the fertility of girls and young women with cancer or benign conditions requiring gonadotoxic therapy, and is now becoming widely recognized as an effective alternative to oocyte and embryo freezing when not feasible. Primordial follicles are the most abundant population of follicles in the ovary, and their relatively quiescent metabolism makes them more resistant to cryoinjury. This dormant pool represents a key target for fertility preservation strategies as a resource for generating high-quality oocytes. However, development of mature, competent oocytes derived from primordial follicles is challenging, particularly in larger mammals. One of the main barriers is the substantial knowledge gap regarding the regulation of the balance between dormancy and activation of primordial follicles to initiate their growing phase. In addition, experimental and clinical factors also affect dormant follicle demise, while the mechanisms involved remain largely to be elucidated. Moreover, most of our basic knowledge of these processes comes from rodent studies and should be extrapolated to humans with caution, considering the differences between species in the reproductive field. Overcoming these obstacles is essential to improving both the quantity and the quality of mature oocytes available for further fertilization, and may have valuable biological and clinical applications, especially in fertility preservation procedures. This review provides an update on current knowledge of mammalian primordial follicle activation under both physiological and nonphysiological conditions, and discusses implications for fertility preservation and priorities for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johanne Grosbois
- Research Laboratory in Human Reproduction, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium.,Institute of Cell Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Melody Devos
- Research Laboratory in Human Reproduction, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Isabelle Demeestere
- Research Laboratory in Human Reproduction, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium.,Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Erasme Hospital, Brussels, Belgium
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Ma K, Chen Y, Fan X, Yuan Y, Wang K, Tian C, Li M. Dingkun Pill replenishes diminished ovarian reserve through the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway in TWP-induced mice. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2020; 262:112993. [PMID: 32473368 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2020.112993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2019] [Revised: 05/10/2020] [Accepted: 05/16/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Diminished ovarian reserve (DOR) can lead to poor fertility and shorten the reproductive lifespan of females. The Dingkun Pill (DKP), a traditional Chinese-patented medication, has been an integral part of traditional Chinese medicinal treatment for the management of gynecological diseases for centuries. Relevant clinical studies have shown that DKP is able to protect against DOR, however, its mechanism of action is not yet fully elucidated. STUDY GOALS This study was conducted with the aim of exploring the impact of tripterygium wilfordii polyglycosidium (TWP) on the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway in the context of the pathophysiology of DOR and the mechanism of action of DKP. MATERIALS AND METHODS Eighty female balb/c mice with regular estrous cycles were assigned to Blank, Model, DKP and hormone replacement therapy (HRT) groups in a random manner. With the exception of the Blank group, mice in the other groups were exposed to 40 mg/kg/d TWP suspension for 30 days to DOR induction. Following this, either DKP or hormones were orally administrated to determine their effect on disease progression. During the experiment, changes in body weight and the estrous cycles of the mice were observed. Post treatment, serum sample anti-mullerian hormone (AMH), estradiol (E2), luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels were quantified using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The mice were then sacrificed in order to harvest their ovaries for hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining. This process allowed for the assessment of ovarian morphology and follicular quantification. Apoptotic ovarian cells of the ovary were assessed using TUNEL technique, while Caspase-3 and Cytochrome C (Cyt C) expressions of the ovary were examined through immunohistochemistry (IHC). Western blotting analysis was used to quantify levels of Bax, Bcl-2, Caspase-3, Cyt C, mTOR, P-mTOR, AKT, P-AKT, P-PI3K and PI3K proteins, while mRNA levels of Bax, Bcl-2, PI3K, AKT and mTOR were measured in ovarian tissue using RT-PCR. RESULTS The findings revealed that DKP was able to improve levels of serum hormones and promote the recovery of the estrous cycle. DKP augmented the total amount of primordial follicles while reducing the number of follicles that were atretic follicles. The apoptosis index of growing follicles and Bax, Cyt C and Caspase-3 expressions decreased, while the Bcl-2: Bax ratio increased. DKP suppressed levels of phosphorylation and the mRNA expressions of mTOR, AKT and PI3K. CONCLUSIONS It was demonstrated that DKP was able to increase ovarian reserves through inhibition of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway, which lead to the suppression of primordial follicle activity and a reduction in levels of apoptosis of early growing follicles. This highlights its potentially beneficial role for the treatment of DOR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kun Ma
- China Academy of Chinese Medical Science, Beijing, 100700, China.
| | - Yanxia Chen
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Science, Beijing, 100091, China.
| | - Xiaodi Fan
- Institute of Basic Medical Science of Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Science, Beijing, 100091, China.
| | - Yuan Yuan
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Science, Beijing, 100091, China.
| | - Kaili Wang
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Science, Beijing, 100091, China.
| | - Caidie Tian
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Science, Beijing, 100091, China.
| | - Min Li
- China Academy of Chinese Medical Science, Beijing, 100700, China.
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