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Swinerd GW, Alhussini AA, Sczelecki S, Heath D, Mueller TD, McNatty KP, Pitman JL. Molecular forms of BMP15 and GDF9 in mammalian species that differ in litter size. Sci Rep 2023; 13:22428. [PMID: 38104237 PMCID: PMC10725505 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-49852-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Bone morphogenetic protein (BMP15) and growth differentiation factor (GDF9) are critical for ovarian follicular development and fertility and are associated with litter size in mammals. These proteins initially exist as pre-pro-mature proteins, that are subsequently cleaved into biologically active forms. Thus, the molecular forms of GDF9 and BMP15 may provide the key to understanding the differences in litter size determination in mammals. Herein, we compared GDF9 and BMP15 forms in mammals with high (pigs) and low to moderate (sheep) and low (red deer) ovulation-rate. In all species, oocyte lysates and secretions contained both promature and mature forms of BMP15 and GDF9. Whilst promature and mature GDF9 levels were similar between species, deer produced more BMP15 and exhibited, together with sheep, a higher promature:mature BMP15 ratio. N-linked glycosylation was prominant in proregion and mature GDF9 and in proregion BMP15 of pigs, and present in proregion GDF9 of sheep. There was no evidence of secreted native homo- or hetero-dimers although a GDF9 dimer in red deer oocyte lysate was detected. In summary, GDF9 appeared to be equally important in all species regardless of litter size, whilst BMP15 levels were highest in strict monovulatory species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gene W Swinerd
- School of Biological Sciences, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Abdulaziz A Alhussini
- School of Biological Sciences, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Sarah Sczelecki
- School of Biological Sciences, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Derek Heath
- School of Biological Sciences, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Thomas D Mueller
- Department of Plant Physiology and Biophysics, Julius-Von-Sachs Institute of the University Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Kenneth P McNatty
- School of Biological Sciences, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Janet L Pitman
- School of Biological Sciences, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand.
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2
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Garcia P, Aspee K, Ramirez G, Dettleff P, Palomino J, Peralta OA, Parraguez VH, De Los Reyes M. Influence of growth differentiation factor 9 and bone morphogenetic protein 15 on in vitro maturation of canine oocytes. Reprod Domest Anim 2018; 54:373-380. [PMID: 30388311 DOI: 10.1111/rda.13371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2018] [Accepted: 10/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Growth differentiation factor 9 (GDF-9) and bone morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP-15) have pivotal roles in oocyte development in many species, therefore the aim was to investigate these factors during in vitro maturation (IVM) of canine oocytes. Canine cumulus oocytes complexes (COCs) were cultured in six groups for 72 hr in a supplemented TCM199-Hepes medium as (a) Control group; (b) GDF-9 antibody (Ab); (c) BMP-15 Ab; (d) recombinant human (rh) GDF-9; (e) rh BMP-15 or (f) rh BMP-15 and GDF-9. Data were evaluated by ANOVA. The Abs against GDF-9 or BMP-15 had a negative impact on meiotic development. Higher (p < 0.05) number of oocytes was arrested at GVBD stage when they were incubated with either GDF-9 Ab (64.4 ± 2.1%) or BMP-15 Ab (67.2%± 4.9%) in comparison to those in control group (32.4 ± 7.8%). In contrast, more (p < 0.05) oocytes in control group reached MI (37.4 ± 1.3%) and MII stages (10.2 ± 2.1%) comparing to those groups with GDF-9 Ab (23.1 ± 4.7% MI; 0.0% MII) or BMP-15 Ab (16.4 ± 2.4%MI; 5.9% ± 2.1 MII). Higher rates (p < 0.05) of oocytes in control group stayed still arrested at GV (19.9 ± 8.6%) in comparison to those cultured with either rhGDF-9 (3.7 ± 0.4%) or rhBMP-15 (10.9 ± 0.7%). However, there were no differences in MII rates between oocytes cultured with GDF-9 (14.7 ± 3.1) and BMP-15 (7.8 ± 2.5) separately. But, more oocytes (p < 0.05) reached the MII stage (20.5 ± 3.8%) compared to those exposed to each protein separately and to the control group. These results suggest that these proteins likely contribute to the meiotic development in dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pablo Garcia
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Karla Aspee
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Georges Ramirez
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Phillip Dettleff
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Jaime Palomino
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Oscar A Peralta
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Víctor H Parraguez
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Monica De Los Reyes
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
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3
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Belli M, Shimasaki S. Molecular Aspects and Clinical Relevance of GDF9 and BMP15 in Ovarian Function. VITAMINS AND HORMONES 2018; 107:317-348. [PMID: 29544636 DOI: 10.1016/bs.vh.2017.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Growth and differentiation factor 9 (GDF9) and bone morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP15) are oocyte-secreted factors with a leading role in the control of ovarian function in female reproduction, modulating both the cell fate of the somatic granulosa cells and the quality and developmental competence of the egg. This short review aims to consolidate the molecular aspects of GDF9 and BMP15 and their integral actions in female fertility to understand particularly their effects on oocyte quality and fetal growth. The significant consequences of mutations in the GDF9 and BMP15 genes in women with dizygotic twins as well as the clinical relevance of these oocyte factors in the pathogenesis of primary ovarian insufficiency and polycystic ovary syndrome are also addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Belli
- University of California San Diego, School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Shunichi Shimasaki
- University of California San Diego, School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA, United States.
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4
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Li JJ, Sugimura S, Mueller TD, White MA, Martin GA, Ritter LJ, Liang XY, Gilchrist RB, Mottershead DG. Modifications of human growth differentiation factor 9 to improve the generation of embryos from low competence oocytes. Mol Endocrinol 2016; 29:40-52. [PMID: 25394262 DOI: 10.1210/me.2014-1173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Growth differentiation factor 9 (GDF9) is an oocyte-derived growth factor that plays a critical role in ovarian folliculogenesis and oocyte developmental competence and belongs to the TGF-β family of proteins. Recombinant human GDF9 (hGDF9) is secreted in a latent form, which in the case of the fully processed protein, has the proregion noncovalently associated with the mature region. In this study, we investigated a number of amino acid residues in the mature region of hGDF9 that are different from the corresponding residues in the mouse protein, which is not latent. We designed, expressed, and purified 4 forms of chimeric hGDF9 (M1-M4) that we found to be active in a granulosa cell bioassay. Using a porcine in vitro maturation model with inherent low developmental competence (yielding 10%-20% blastocysts), we tested the ability of the chimeric hGDF9 proteins to improve oocyte maturation and developmental competence. Interestingly, one of the chimeric proteins, M3, was able to significantly increase the level of embryo production using such low competence oocytes. Our molecular modeling studies suggest that in the case of hGDF9 the Gly(391)Arg mutation probably increases receptor binding affinity, thereby creating an active protein for granulosa cells in vitro. However, for an improvement in oocyte developmental competence, a second mutation (Ser(412)Pro), which potentially decreases the affinity of the mature region for the proregion, is also required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing-Jie Li
- Center of Reproductive Medicine (J.-J.L., X.-Y.L.), the Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 520655, China; Institute of Agriculture (S.S.), Department of Biological Production, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo 183-0057, Japan; Robinson Research Institute (J.-J.L., S.S., M.A.W., G.A.M., L.J.R., R.B.G., D.G.M.), School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide 5005, Australia; Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Women's and Children's Health (R.B.G.), Royal Hospital for Women, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales 2031 Australia; and Department of Plant Physiology and Biophysics (T.D.M.), Julius-von-Sachs Institute of the University Wuerzburg, 97082 Wuerzburg, Germany
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5
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Mottershead DG, Sugimura S, Al-Musawi SL, Li JJ, Richani D, White MA, Martin GA, Trotta AP, Ritter LJ, Shi J, Mueller TD, Harrison CA, Gilchrist RB. Cumulin, an Oocyte-secreted Heterodimer of the Transforming Growth Factor-β Family, Is a Potent Activator of Granulosa Cells and Improves Oocyte Quality. J Biol Chem 2015; 290:24007-20. [PMID: 26254468 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m115.671487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2015] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Growth differentiation factor 9 (GDF9) and bone morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP15) are oocyte-specific growth factors with central roles in mammalian reproduction, regulating species-specific fecundity, ovarian follicular somatic cell differentiation, and oocyte quality. In the human, GDF9 is produced in a latent form, the mechanism of activation being an open question. Here, we produced a range of recombinant GDF9 and BMP15 variants, examined their in silico and physical interactions and their effects on ovarian granulosa cells (GC) and oocytes. We found that the potent synergistic actions of GDF9 and BMP15 on GC can be attributed to the formation of a heterodimer, which we have termed cumulin. Structural modeling of cumulin revealed a dimerization interface identical to homodimeric GDF9 and BMP15, indicating likely formation of a stable complex. This was confirmed by generation of recombinant heterodimeric complexes of pro/mature domains (pro-cumulin) and covalent mature domains (cumulin). Both pro-cumulin and cumulin exhibited highly potent bioactivity on GC, activating both SMAD2/3 and SMAD1/5/8 signaling pathways and promoting proliferation and expression of a set of genes associated with oocyte-regulated GC differentiation. Cumulin was more potent than pro-cumulin, pro-GDF9, pro-BMP15, or the two combined on GC. However, on cumulus-oocyte complexes, pro-cumulin was more effective than all other growth factors at notably improving oocyte quality as assessed by subsequent day 7 embryo development. Our results support a model of activation for human GDF9 dependent on cumulin formation through heterodimerization with BMP15. Oocyte-secreted cumulin is likely to be a central regulator of fertility in mono-ovular mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- David G Mottershead
- From the Robinson Research Institute and Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health and Mottasis Oy Ltd., 00430 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Satoshi Sugimura
- From the Robinson Research Institute and Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health and the Institute of Agriculture, Department of Biological Production, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo 183-0057, Japan
| | - Sara L Al-Musawi
- the Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia
| | - Jing-Jie Li
- From the Robinson Research Institute and Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health and the Center of Reproductive Medicine, the Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, 510655 Guangzhou, China
| | - Dulama Richani
- the Discipline of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, School of Women's & Children's Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales 2052, Australia, and
| | - Melissa A White
- From the Robinson Research Institute and Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health and
| | - Georgia A Martin
- From the Robinson Research Institute and Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health and
| | - Andrew P Trotta
- From the Robinson Research Institute and Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health and
| | - Lesley J Ritter
- From the Robinson Research Institute and Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health and the Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence in Nanoscale BioPhotonics, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia 5005, Australia
| | - Junyan Shi
- From the Robinson Research Institute and Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health and
| | - Thomas D Mueller
- the Department of Plant Physiology and Biophysics, Julius-von-Sachs Institute of the University Wuerzburg, D-97082 Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Craig A Harrison
- the Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia
| | - Robert B Gilchrist
- From the Robinson Research Institute and Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health and the Discipline of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, School of Women's & Children's Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales 2052, Australia, and
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6
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Yalak G, Olsen BR. Proteomic database mining opens up avenues utilizing extracellular protein phosphorylation for novel therapeutic applications. J Transl Med 2015; 13:125. [PMID: 25927841 PMCID: PMC4427915 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-015-0482-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2014] [Accepted: 04/07/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent advances in extracellular signaling suggest that extracellular protein phosphorylation is a regulatory mechanism outside the cell. The list of reported active extracellular protein kinases and phosphatases is growing, and phosphorylation of an increasing number of extracellular matrix molecules and extracellular domains of trans-membrane proteins is being documented. Here, we use public proteomic databases, collagens – the major components of the extracellular matrix, extracellular signaling molecules and proteolytic enzymes as examples to assess what the roles of extracellular protein phosphorylation may be in health and disease. We propose that novel tools be developed to help assess the role of extracellular protein phosphorylation and translate the findings for biomedical applications. Furthermore, we suggest that the phosphorylation state of extracellular matrix components as well as the presence of extracellular kinases be taken into account when designing translational medical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Garif Yalak
- Department of Developmental Biology, Harvard Medical School/Harvard School of Dental Medicine, 188 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
| | - Bjorn R Olsen
- Department of Developmental Biology, Harvard Medical School/Harvard School of Dental Medicine, 188 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
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7
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Mester B, Ritter LJ, Pitman JL, Bibby AH, Gilchrist RB, McNatty KP, Juengel JL, McIntosh CJ. Oocyte expression, secretion and somatic cell interaction of mouse bone morphogenetic protein 15 during the peri-ovulatory period. Reprod Fertil Dev 2015; 27:801-11. [DOI: 10.1071/rd13336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2013] [Accepted: 01/23/2014] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Bone morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP15) is a key intraovarian growth factor regulating mammalian fertility, yet expression and localisation of different BMP15 protein forms within ovarian follicles around the time of the preovulatory LH surge remains unclear. Using immunoblotting and immunocytochemistry, the present study identified that post-translationally processed BMP15 proregion and mature proteins are increasingly expressed and localised with cumulus and granulosa cells from mice treated with pregnant mare’s serum gonadotropin (PMSG) + human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG). However, this increased expression was absent in cumulus–oocyte complexes matured in vitro. Pull-down assays further revealed that the recombinant BMP15 proregion is capable of specific interaction with isolated granulosa cells. To verify an oocyte, and not somatic cell, origin of Bmp15 mRNA and coregulated growth differentiation factor 9 (Gdf9), in situ hybridisation and quantitative polymerase chain reaction results confirmed the exclusive oocyte localisation of Bmp15 and Gdf9, regardless of treatment or assay method. Relative oocyte expression levels of Bmp15 and Gdf9 decreased significantly after PMSG + hCG treatment; nevertheless, throughout all treatments, the Bmp15 : Gdf9 mRNA expression ratio remained unchanged. Together, these data provide evidence that the preovulatory LH surge leads to upregulation of several forms of BMP15 protein secreted by the oocyte for putative sequestration and/or interaction with ovarian follicular somatic cells.
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Sudiman J, Sutton-McDowall ML, Ritter LJ, White MA, Mottershead DG, Thompson JG, Gilchrist RB. Bone morphogenetic protein 15 in the pro-mature complex form enhances bovine oocyte developmental competence. PLoS One 2014; 9:e103563. [PMID: 25058588 PMCID: PMC4110049 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0103563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2013] [Accepted: 07/03/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Developmental competence of in vitro matured (IVM) oocytes needs to be improved and this can potentially be achieved by adding recombinant bone morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP15) or growth differentiation factor (GDF9) to IVM. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of a purified pro-mature complex form of recombinant human BMP15 versus the commercially available bioactive forms of BMP15 and GDF9 (both isolated mature regions) during IVM on bovine embryo development and metabolic activity. Bovine cumulus oocyte complexes (COCs) were matured in vitro in control medium or treated with 100 ng/ml pro-mature BMP15, mature BMP15 or mature GDF9 +/− FSH. Metabolic measures of glucose uptake and lactate production from COCs and autofluorescence of NAD(P)H, FAD and GSH were measured in oocytes after IVM. Following in vitro fertilisation and embryo culture, day 8 blastocysts were stained for cell numbers. COCs matured in medium +/− FSH containing pro-mature BMP15 displayed significantly improved blastocyst development (57.7±3.9%, 43.5±4.2%) compared to controls (43.3±2.4%, 28.9±3.7%) and to mature GDF9+FSH (36.1±3.0%). The mature form of BMP15 produced intermediate levels of blastocyst development; not significantly different to control or pro-mature BMP15 levels. Pro-mature BMP15 increased intra-oocyte NAD(P)H, and reduced glutathione (GSH) levels were increased by both forms of BMP15 in the absence of FSH. Exogenous BMP15 in its pro-mature form during IVM provides a functional source of oocyte-secreted factors to improve bovine blastocyst development. This form of BMP15 may prove useful for improving cattle and human artificial reproductive technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaqueline Sudiman
- Robinson Research Institute, Research Centre for Reproductive Health, and School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health, Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Melanie L. Sutton-McDowall
- Robinson Research Institute, Research Centre for Reproductive Health, and School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health, Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Lesley J. Ritter
- Robinson Research Institute, Research Centre for Reproductive Health, and School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health, Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Melissa A. White
- Robinson Research Institute, Research Centre for Reproductive Health, and School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health, Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - David G. Mottershead
- Robinson Research Institute, Research Centre for Reproductive Health, and School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health, Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Jeremy G. Thompson
- Robinson Research Institute, Research Centre for Reproductive Health, and School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health, Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Robert B. Gilchrist
- Robinson Research Institute, Research Centre for Reproductive Health, and School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health, Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Discipline of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, School of Women's & Children's Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- * E-mail:
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Juengel JL, Davis GH, McNatty KP. Using sheep lines with mutations in single genes to better understand ovarian function. Reproduction 2013; 146:R111-23. [DOI: 10.1530/rep-12-0509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Livestock populations have been subjected to strong selection pressure to improve reproductive success, and this has led to the identification of lines of animals with increased fecundity. These animals provide a rich biological resource for discovery of genes and regulatory mechanisms that underpin improved reproductive success. To date, three genes, all related to the transforming growth factor β pathway, have been identified as having mutations that lead to alterations in ovulation in sheep. In addition, several other sheep lines have been identified with putative mutations in single genes with major effects on ovulation rate. This review is focused on the identification of the mutations affecting ovulation rate and how these discoveries have provided new insights into control of ovarian function.
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Fenwick MA, Mora JM, Mansour YT, Baithun C, Franks S, Hardy K. Investigations of TGF-β signaling in preantral follicles of female mice reveal differential roles for bone morphogenetic protein 15. Endocrinology 2013; 154:3423-36. [PMID: 23782946 DOI: 10.1210/en.2012-2251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Bone morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP15) and growth differentiation factor 9 (GDF9) are 2 closely related TGF-β ligands implicated as key regulators of follicle development and fertility. Animals harboring mutations of these factors often exhibit a blockage in follicle development beyond the primary stage and therefore little is known about the role of these ligands during subsequent (preantral) stages. Preantral follicles isolated from immature mice were cultured with combinations of BMP15, GDF9, and activin receptor-like kinase (ALK) inhibitors. Individually, GDF9 and BMP15 promoted follicle growth during the first 24 hours, whereas BMP15 subsequently (48-72 h) caused follicle shrinkage and atresia with increased granulosa cell apoptosis. Inhibition of ALK6 prevented the BMP15-induced reduction in follicle size and under basal conditions promoted a rapid increase in granulosa cell proliferation, suggesting BMP15 signals through ALK6, which in turn acts to restrain follicle growth. In the presence of GDF9, BMP15 no longer promoted atresia and in fact follicle growth was increased significantly more than with either ligand alone. This cooperative effect was accompanied by differential expression of Id1-3, Smad6-7, and Has2 and was blocked by the same ALK5 inhibitor used to block GDF9 signaling. Immunostaining for SMAD2/3 and SMAD1/5/8, representing the 2 main branches of TGF-β signaling, supported the fact that both canonical pathways have the potential to be active in growing follicles, whereas primordial follicles only express SMAD2/3. Overall results highlight differential effects of the 2 main TGF-β signaling pathways during preantral follicle growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark A Fenwick
- Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, Du Cane Road, London W12 0NN, United Kingdom.
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Passos M, Vasconcelos G, Silva A, Brito I, Saraiva M, Magalhães D, Costa J, Donato M, Ribeiro R, Cunha E, Peixoto C, Campello C, Figueiredo J, van den Hurk R, Silva J. Accelerated growth of bovine preantral follicles in vitro after stimulation with both FSH and BMP-15 is accompanied by ultrastructural changes and increased atresia. Theriogenology 2013; 79:1269-77. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2013.02.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2012] [Revised: 02/22/2013] [Accepted: 02/23/2013] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Tagliabracci VS, Pinna LA, Dixon JE. Secreted protein kinases. Trends Biochem Sci 2012; 38:121-30. [PMID: 23276407 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibs.2012.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2012] [Revised: 11/25/2012] [Accepted: 11/29/2012] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Protein kinases constitute one of the largest gene families and control many aspects of cellular life. In retrospect, the first indication for their existence was reported 130 years ago when the secreted protein, casein, was shown to contain phosphate. Despite its identification as the first phosphoprotein, the responsible kinase has remained obscure. This conundrum was solved with the discovery of a novel family of atypical protein kinases that are secreted and appear to phosphorylate numerous extracellular proteins, including casein. Fam20C, the archetypical member, phosphorylates secreted proteins within Ser-x-Glu/pSer motifs. This discovery has solved a 130-year-old mystery and has shed light on several human disorders of biomineralization.
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Pulkki MM, Mottershead DG, Pasternack AH, Muggalla P, Ludlow H, van Dinther M, Myllymaa S, Koli K, ten Dijke P, Laitinen M, Ritvos O. A covalently dimerized recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-15 variant identifies bone morphogenetic protein receptor type 1B as a key cell surface receptor on ovarian granulosa cells. Endocrinology 2012; 153:1509-18. [PMID: 22294741 DOI: 10.1210/en.2010-1390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Genetic studies have identified bone morphogenetic protein-15 (BMP15) as an essential regulator of female fertility in humans and in sheep. Oocyte-derived BMP15 is a noncovalently linked dimeric growth factor mediating its effects to ovarian somatic cells in a paracrine manner. Although receptor ectodomains capable of binding BMP15 have previously been reported, no cell surface receptor complex involved in BMP15 signaling has previously been characterized. Here we have expressed and purified recombinant human BMP15 noncovalent and covalent dimer variants. The biological effects of these BMP15 variants were assessed in cultured human granulosa-luteal cells or COV434 granulosa cell tumor cells using BMP-responsive transcriptional reporter assays and an inhibin B ELISA. Biochemical characterization of ligand-receptor interactions was performed with affinity-labeling experiments using [(125)I]iodinated BMP15 variants. Both ligand variants were shown to form homodimers and to stimulate Smad1/5/8 signaling and inhibin B production in human granulosa cells in a similar manner. [(125)I]Iodination of both ligands was achieved, but only the covalent dimer variant retained receptor binding capacity. The [(125)I]BMP15(S356C) variant bound preferentially to endogenous BMP receptor 1B (BMPR1B) and BMPR2 receptors on COV434 cells. Binding experiments in COS cells with overexpression of these receptors confirmed that the [(125)I]BMP15(S356C) variant binds to BMPR1B and BMPR2 forming the BMP15 signaling complex. The results provide the first direct evidence in any species on the identification of specific cell surface receptors for a member of the GDF9/BMP15 subfamily of oocyte growth factors. The fact that BMP15 uses preferentially BMPR1B as its type I receptor suggests an important role for the BMPR1B receptor in human female fertility. The result is well in line with the demonstration of ovarian failure in a recently reported human subject with a homozygous BMPR1B loss-of-function mutant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minna M Pulkki
- Department of Bacteriology and Immunology, Haartman Institute, University of Helsinki and HUSLAB, University Central Hospital of Helsinki, FIN-00029 Helsinki, Finland.
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14
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Otsuka F, Inagaki K. Unique bioactivities of bone morphogenetic proteins in regulation of reproductive endocrine functions. Reprod Med Biol 2011; 10:131-142. [PMID: 29662354 DOI: 10.1007/s12522-011-0082-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2011] [Accepted: 03/29/2011] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Remarkable progress has been made in understanding the mechanism by which growth factors and oocytes can regulate the development and function of granulosa cells. Insufficiency of two oocyte-specific growth factors, growth differentiation factor-9 and bone morphogenetic protein (BMP)-15, cause female infertility. Expression of mRNA and/or protein for the BMP system components, including ligands, receptors and intracellular signal transduction factors, was demonstrated in cell components of growing preantral follicles, and biofunctional experiments have further revealed many important roles of the BMP system in regulation of reproductive function. In this review, recent advances in studies on biological actions of BMPs in ovarian folliculogenesis and in related endocrine tissues are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fumio Otsuka
- Endocrine Center of Okayama University Hospital 2-5-1 Shikata-cho, Kitaku 700-8558 Okayama Japan
| | - Kenichi Inagaki
- Endocrine Center of Okayama University Hospital 2-5-1 Shikata-cho, Kitaku 700-8558 Okayama Japan
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15
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Pulkki MM, Myllymaa S, Pasternack A, Lun S, Ludlow H, Al-Qahtani A, Korchynskyi O, Groome N, Juengel JL, Kalkkinen N, Laitinen M, Ritvos O, Mottershead DG. The bioactivity of human bone morphogenetic protein-15 is sensitive to C-terminal modification: characterization of the purified untagged processed mature region. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2011; 332:106-15. [PMID: 20937357 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2010.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2010] [Revised: 09/06/2010] [Accepted: 10/04/2010] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Oocyte-derived bone morphogenetic protein-15 (BMP15) is critical for the regulation of mammalian fertility. Previously we have found that a C-terminal His(6)-tag destroys the bioactivity of growth differentiation-9 (GDF9, a homolog of BMP15). In this study we found that recombinant human BMP15 is produced by HEK-293T cells in an active form, but the bioactivity is lost by C-terminal modification, specifically, fusion to a Flag tag. After purification the mature BMP15 wt is active in transcriptional reporter assays specific for Smad1/5/8 in human granulosa-luteal (hGL) and COV434 granulosa tumor cells, whereas BMP15 with a carboxy-terminal Flag tag remains inactive. Using these same cell models we found that treatment with purified mature BMP15 wt causes a rapid phosphorylation of Smad1. The purified BMP15 wt is a potent stimulator of rat granulosa cell DNA synthesis, which could be antagonized by the BMPRII ectodomain-Fc fusion molecule, whereas the BMP15C-Flag was completely inactive. Further, the BMP15 wt form is a potent stimulator of inhibin B production in hGL cells. We found that the purified BMP15 wt consists of P16 and -17, both of which are post-translationally modified forms. This is the first characterization of a purified untagged human BMP15 mature region, which is stable and highly bioactive in human and rodent granulosa cells and as such is of importance for studies on human fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minna M Pulkki
- Department of Bacteriology and Immunology, Haartman Institute, 00014 University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.
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16
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Aziz A, Harrop SP, Bishop NE. DIA1R is an X-linked gene related to Deleted In Autism-1. PLoS One 2011; 6:e14534. [PMID: 21264219 PMCID: PMC3022024 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0014534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2010] [Accepted: 12/21/2010] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are frequently occurring disorders diagnosed by deficits in three core functional areas: social skills, communication, and behaviours and/or interests. Mental retardation frequently accompanies the most severe forms of ASDs, while overall ASDs are more commonly diagnosed in males. Most ASDs have a genetic origin and one gene recently implicated in the etiology of autism is the Deleted-In-Autism-1 (DIA1) gene. Methodology/Principal Findings Using a bioinformatics-based approach, we have identified a human gene closely related to DIA1, we term DIA1R (DIA1-Related). While DIA1 is autosomal (chromosome 3, position 3q24), DIA1R localizes to the X chromosome at position Xp11.3 and is known to escape X-inactivation. The gene products are of similar size, with DIA1 encoding 430, and DIA1R 433, residues. At the amino acid level, DIA1 and DIA1R are 62% similar overall (28% identical), and both encode signal peptides for targeting to the secretory pathway. Both genes are ubiquitously expressed, including in fetal and adult brain tissue. Conclusions/Significance Examination of published literature revealed point mutations in DIA1R are associated with X-linked mental retardation (XLMR) and DIA1R deletion is associated with syndromes with ASD-like traits and/or XLMR. Together, these results support a model where the DIA1 and DIA1R gene products regulate molecular traffic through the cellular secretory pathway or affect the function of secreted factors, and functional deficits cause disorders with ASD-like symptoms and/or mental retardation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Azhari Aziz
- Department of Microbiology, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | - Sean P. Harrop
- Department of Microbiology, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | - Naomi E. Bishop
- Department of Microbiology, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
- * E-mail:
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17
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Otsuka F, McTavish KJ, Shimasaki S. Integral role of GDF-9 and BMP-15 in ovarian function. Mol Reprod Dev 2011; 78:9-21. [PMID: 21226076 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.21265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 241] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2010] [Accepted: 11/16/2010] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
The oocyte plays an important role in regulating and promoting follicle growth, and thereby its own development, by the production of oocyte growth factors that predominantly act on supporting granulosa cells via paracrine signaling. Genetic studies in mice demonstrated critical roles of two key oocyte-derived growth factors belonging to the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) superfamily, growth and differentiation factor-9 (GDF-9) and bone morphogenetic protein-15 (BMP-15), in ovarian function. The identification of Bmp15 and Gdf9 gene mutations as the causal mechanism underlying the highly prolific or infertile nature of several sheep strains in a dosage-sensitive manner also highlighted the crucial role these two genes play in ovarian function. Similarly, large numbers of mutations in the GDF9 and BMP15 genes have been identified in women with premature ovarian failure and in mothers of dizygotic twins. The purpose of this article is to review the genetic studies of GDF-9 and BMP-15 mutations identified in women and sheep, as well as describing the various knockout and overexpressing mouse models, and to summarize the molecular and biological functions that underlie the crucial role of these two oocyte factors in female fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fumio Otsuka
- Endocrine Center of Okayama University Hospital, Okayama, Japan.
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18
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Makanji Y, Harrison CA, Robertson DM. Feedback Regulation by Inhibins A and B of the Pituitary Secretion of Follicle-Stimulating Hormone. VITAMINS AND HORMONES 2011; 85:299-321. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-385961-7.00014-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/16/2023]
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19
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Abstract
Inhibin A and B, dimeric glycoproteins comprising an α- and β((A/B))-subunit, negatively regulate follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) synthesis by the pituitary. The expression of α- and β-subunits within Sertoli cells of the testis and granulosa cells of the ovary is controlled by a range of transcription factors, including CREB, SP-1, Smads, and GATA factors. The inhibin α- and β-subunits are synthesized as precursor molecules consisting of an N-terminal propeptide and a C-terminal mature domain. Recently, we showed that hydrophobic residues within the propeptides of the α- and β-subunits interact noncovalently with their mature domains, maintaining the molecules in a conformation competent for dimerization. Dimeric precursors are cleaved by proprotein convertases and mature inhibins are secreted from the cell noncovalently associated with their propeptides. Propeptides may increase the half-life of inhibin A and B in circulation, but they are readily displaced in the presence of the high-affinity receptors, betaglycan, and ActRII.
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20
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Paulini F, Melo EO. The role of oocyte-secreted factors GDF9 and BMP15 in follicular development and oogenesis. Reprod Domest Anim 2010; 46:354-61. [PMID: 21198974 DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0531.2010.01739.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Ovarian physiology is controlled by endocrine and paracrine signals, and the transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) superfamily has a pivotal role in this control. The Bone morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP15) and Growth differentiation factor 9 (GDF9) genes are relevant members of the TGFβ superfamily that encode proteins secreted by the oocytes into the ovarian follicles. Through a paracrine signalling pathway, these factors induce the follicular somatic cells to undergo mitosis and differentiation during follicular development. These events are controlled by a mutually dependent and coordinated fashion during the formation of the granulosa cell layers. Many studies have contributed to our knowledge concerning the paracrine factors acting within the follicular environment, especially regarding GDF9 and BMP15. We aimed to review the relevant contributions of these two genes to animal reproductive physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernanda Paulini
- Embrapa Recursos Genéticos e Biotecnologia Instituto de Biologia/PGBioani, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, Brazil
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21
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Inagaki K, Shimasaki S. Impaired production of BMP-15 and GDF-9 mature proteins derived from proproteins WITH mutations in the proregion. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2010; 328:1-7. [PMID: 20547206 PMCID: PMC2934881 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2010.05.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2010] [Revised: 05/03/2010] [Accepted: 05/28/2010] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Mutations in the bone morphogenetic protein-15 (BMP-15) and growth and differentiation factor-9 (GDF-9) genes have been identified in women with primary ovarian insufficiency (POI) and mothers of dizygotic twins. Here, we show that biological activities of the conditioned media from human embryonic kidney 293F cells transfected with two representative BMP-15 and GDF-9 mutants identified in the affected women have significantly reduced biological activities compared with the corresponding wild-type. Moreover, this difference is due to decreased production of the mature proteins, attributed most likely to impaired posttranslational processing of the proprotein. As genetic studies of the BMP-15 and/or GDF-9 genes in ewes established that a reduction of these proteins is associated with an increased ovulation rate, it is conceivable that women affected with these mutations may have an increased probability of bearing dizygotic twins during active reproductive ages before diagnosis with POI at later ages due to an earlier exhaustion of ovarian reserve.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenichi Inagaki
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, University of California San Diego, School of Medicine, 9500 Gilman Dr., La Jolla, CA 92093-0633, United States
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22
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Yan GR, Ding W, Xu SH, Xu Z, Xiao CL, Yin XF, He QY. Characterization of phosphoproteins in gastric cancer secretome. OMICS-A JOURNAL OF INTEGRATIVE BIOLOGY 2010; 15:83-90. [PMID: 20726782 DOI: 10.1089/omi.2010.0056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Phosphorylation dysregulation has been implicated in various diseases including cancer. The phosphorylation change of proteins in secretome may be a novel source for the discovery of biomarkers and drug targets. In this study, the phosphoproteins in cancer secretome (phosphosecretome) were globally analyzed for the first time by phosphoproteomics. One hundred forty-two phosphorylation sites on 62 unique phosphopeptides representing 49 nonredundant proteins were identified, several of which are known as secreted proteins involved in carcinogenesis, invasion, and metastasis. Most of them were first found as secreted proteins with no previously known function. Protein sublocation analysis showed that 33 proteins were found to be secreted as phosphoproteins, in which 27 (81.81%) were secreted by a nonclassic, ER/Golgi-independent pathway, suggesting that the phosphorylation modification of these proteins might play an important role in their nonconventional secretion processes. Their protein kinases and regulatory phosphosites involved in the secretion regulation of these phosphoproteins, such as stanniocalcin 2, annexin A2, and HSP90 alphạ, were first identified. The phosphosecretome data enriched the secretome database and phosphoproteome database, and will help us to discover cancer biomarkers and drug targets, illustrating the mystery of the nonclassic protein secretion pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guang-Rong Yan
- Institute of Life and Health Engineering, and National Engineering and Research Center for Genetic Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
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23
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Salvi M, Cesaro L, Tibaldi E, Pinna LA. Motif Analysis of Phosphosites Discloses a Potential Prominent Role of the Golgi Casein Kinase (GCK) in the Generation of Human Plasma Phospho-Proteome. J Proteome Res 2010; 9:3335-8. [DOI: 10.1021/pr100058r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Mauro Salvi
- Department of Biological Chemistry, University of Padova, V.le G. Colombo 3, 35131 Padova, Italy, and Venetian Institute for Molecular Medicine, via Orus 2, 35129 Padova, Italy
| | - Luca Cesaro
- Department of Biological Chemistry, University of Padova, V.le G. Colombo 3, 35131 Padova, Italy, and Venetian Institute for Molecular Medicine, via Orus 2, 35129 Padova, Italy
| | - Elena Tibaldi
- Department of Biological Chemistry, University of Padova, V.le G. Colombo 3, 35131 Padova, Italy, and Venetian Institute for Molecular Medicine, via Orus 2, 35129 Padova, Italy
| | - Lorenzo A. Pinna
- Department of Biological Chemistry, University of Padova, V.le G. Colombo 3, 35131 Padova, Italy, and Venetian Institute for Molecular Medicine, via Orus 2, 35129 Padova, Italy
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24
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Su YQ, Sugiura K, Li Q, Wigglesworth K, Matzuk MM, Eppig JJ. Mouse oocytes enable LH-induced maturation of the cumulus-oocyte complex via promoting EGF receptor-dependent signaling. Mol Endocrinol 2010; 24:1230-9. [PMID: 20382892 DOI: 10.1210/me.2009-0497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
LH triggers the maturation of the cumulus-oocyte complex (COC), which is followed by ovulation. These ovarian follicular responses to LH are mediated by epidermal growth factor (EGF)-like growth factors produced by granulosa cells and require the participation of oocyte-derived paracrine factors. However, it is not clear how oocytes coordinate with the EGF receptor (EGFR) signaling to achieve COC maturation. The aim of the present study was to test the hypothesis that oocytes promote the expression of EGFR by cumulus cells, thus enabling them to respond to the LH-induced EGF-like peptides. Egfr mRNA and protein expression were dramatically reduced in cumulus cells of mutant mice deficient in the production of the oocyte-derived paracrine factors growth differentiation factor 9 (GDF9) and bone morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP15). Moreover, microsurgical removal of oocytes from wild-type COCs dramatically reduced expression of Egfr mRNA and protein, and these levels were restored by either coculture with oocytes or treatment with recombinant GDF9 or GDF9 plus recombinant BMP15. Blocking Sma- and Mad-related protein (SMAD)2/3 phosphorylation in vitro inhibited Egfr expression in wild-type COCs and in GDF9-treated wild-type cumulus cells, and conditional deletion of Smad2 and Smad3 genes in granulosa cells in vivo resulted in the reduction of Egfr mRNA in cumulus cells. These results indicate that oocytes promote expression of Egfr in cumulus cells, and a SMAD2/3-dependent pathway is involved in this process. At least two oocyte-derived growth factors, GDF9 and BMP15, are required for EGFR expression by cumulus cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- You-Qiang Su
- The Jackson Laboratory, 600 Main Street, Bar Harbor, Maine 04609, USA
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25
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Tibaldi E, Arrigoni G, Martinez HM, Inagaki K, Shimasaki S, Pinna LA. Golgi apparatus casein kinase phosphorylates bioactive Ser-6 of bone morphogenetic protein 15 and growth and differentiation factor 9. FEBS Lett 2010; 584:801-5. [PMID: 20067794 DOI: 10.1016/j.febslet.2009.12.052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2009] [Revised: 12/18/2009] [Accepted: 12/26/2009] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Bone morphogenetic protein-15 (BMP-15) and growth and differentiation factor-9 (GDF-9) are oocyte-secreted factors that play essential roles in human folliculogenesis and ovulation. Their bioactivity is tightly regulated through phosphorylation, likely to occur within the Golgi apparatus of the secretory pathway. Here we show that Golgi apparatus casein kinase (G-CK) catalyzes the phosphorylation of rhBMP-15 and rhGDF-9. rhBMP-15, in particular, is an excellent substrate for G-CK. In each protein a single residue is phosphorylated by G-CK, corresponding to the serine residue at the sixth position of the mature region of both rhBMP-15 and rhGDF-9, whose phosphorylation is required for biological activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Tibaldi
- Department of Biological Chemistry, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
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26
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Abstract
In the human ovary, early in pre-natal life, oocytes are surrounded by pre-granulosa follicular cells to form primordial follicles. These primordial oocytes remain dormant, often for decades, until recruited into the growing pool throughout a woman's adult reproductive years. Activation of follicle growth and subsequent development of growing oocytes in pre-antral follicles are major biological checkpoints that determine an individual females reproductive potential. In the past decade, great strides have been made in the elucidation of the molecular and cellular mechanisms underpinning maintenance of the quiescent primordial follicle pool and initiation and development of follicle growth. Gaining an in-depth knowledge of the intracellular signalling systems that control oocyte preservation and follicle activation has significant implications for improving female reproductive productivity and alleviating infertility. It also has application in domestic animal husbandry, feral animal population control and contraception in women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eileen A McLaughlin
- Reproductive Science Group, School of Environmental & Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia.
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27
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Abstract
Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) were originally identified with regard to their actions to regulate ectopic formation of bone and cartilage and early embryonic development. Subsequently, our research program has investigated a BMP system that exists in the mammalian ovary and plays roles in regulating numerous granulosa cell functions. BMP ligands including BMP-2, -4, -6, -7 and -15 were found to inhibit gondotropin-dependent progesterone synthesis by granulosa cells, which led to the hypothesis that BMPs are a physiological luteinization inhibitor in growing ovarian follicles during the follicular phase of the ovarian cycle. The physiological importance of the BMP system for normal mammalian reproduction has been further recognized by the discovery of aberrant reproductive phenotypes of female sheep and humans having mutated genes encoding BMP-15. Physiological roles of BMPs in the pituitary, hypothalamus, adrenal and other tissues have also been discovered. Here we discuss recent advances in the understanding of autocrine/paracrine actions of BMPs in the systemic regulation of endocrine function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fumio Otsuka
- Endocrine Center of Okayama University Hospital, Department of Medicine and Clinical Science, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama, Japan.
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28
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Mottershead DG, Watson AJ. Oocyte peptides as paracrine tools for ovarian stimulation and oocyte maturation. Mol Hum Reprod 2009; 15:789-94. [PMID: 19846464 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gap085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent studies report the production and isolation of a stable bioactive recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein 15 (rhBMP15) that is appropriately processed in HEK-293 cells and activates the SMAD 1/5/8 pathway in mouse granulosa cell cultures. Further, the purified rhBMP15 induces the expression of genes associated with cumulus expansion. Thanks to recent research, we have a greater understanding of the importance of the dialogue that occurs between the oocyte and the granulosa cell layer with regard to regulating folliculogenesis and the acquisition of oocyte developmental competence and maturation. BMP15 is one of the critical components of these intra-follicular communication pathways. The production of recombinant human BMP15 is important for understanding the biochemistry of this specific pathway and for also fully understanding its functional contributions to mediating oocyte development. The production of a stable recombinant human BMP15 is also important for use in experiments aimed at optimizing ovarian stimulation protocols and in vitro oocyte maturation methods. This is required to improve oocyte and embryonic developmental competence and increase our ability to effectively use in vitro methods for animal production and the treatment of human infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- David G Mottershead
- Robinson Institute, School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health, Medical School, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide 5005, Australia
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29
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McIntosh CJ, Lun S, Lawrence S, Western AH, McNatty KP, Juengel JL. The proregion of mouse BMP15 regulates the cooperative interactions of BMP15 and GDF9. Biol Reprod 2008; 79:889-96. [PMID: 18633140 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.108.068163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Bone morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP15) and growth and differentiation factor 9 (GDF9) are secreted by the mammalian oocyte and are essential for ovarian follicular development, ovulation, and fertility. However, the secreted forms of the BMP15 and GDF9 proteins and the nature of cooperative molecular interactions between BMP15 and GDF9 previously reported have not been fully characterized. In this study, we found that recombinant mouse BMP15 and GDF9 are secreted as cleaved mature and proregion proteins, with BMP15 also secreted as uncleaved promature protein. Noncovalent interactions were identified between the mature and proregion proteins of each growth factor. Moreover, GDF9 mature protein was found to coimmunoprecipitate with the BMP15 proregion, suggestive of a heteromeric association between BMP15 and GDF9. Mouse GDF9 was found to exist mostly as a dimer of mature protein, in both the presence and absence of BMP15. In contrast, BMP15 formed mostly multimers of proregion and mature protein when combined with GDF9, providing further evidence for heteromeric interaction. Mouse BMP15 was found to act cooperatively with GDF9 in a rat granulosa cell thymidine incorporation bioassay and to signal through the BMPR2 and ACVR1B/TGFBR1/ACVR1C receptor-mediated pathways. Immunoneutralization experiments using GDF9 mature protein antibody indicated that these cooperative interactions are species specific. Additionally, immunoneutralization with proregion antibodies highlighted the involvement of the BMP15 proregion in BMP15/GDF9 cooperative interactions. Taken together, these findings support a novel hypothesis where the extracellular cooperative interactions of recombinant mouse BMP15 and GDF9 are multimeric, involving the proregion of BMP15, and may well be species specific.
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30
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Huang K, Ueda E, Chen Y, Walker AM. Paradigm-shifters: phosphorylated prolactin and short prolactin receptors. J Mammary Gland Biol Neoplasia 2008; 13:69-79. [PMID: 18219563 DOI: 10.1007/s10911-008-9072-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2007] [Accepted: 01/04/2008] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Since the discovery of physiologically-regulated prolactin (PRL) phosphorylation, one focus of the laboratory has been an examination of the different functions of the unmodified and phosphorylated hormone. In the mammary gland, unmodified PRL promotes growth activities, whereas phosphorylated or pseudophosphorylated PRL antagonizes this while also being a superior agonist for changes that favor differentiation. Phosphorylated PRL also increases expression of the short forms of the PRL receptor. These short forms of the receptor have functions beyond the accepted dominant negative and in mammary epithelial cells are capable of generating an intracellular signal leading to increased tight junction formation and beta-casein expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- KuangTzu Huang
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
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