Obesity-Dependent Increases in Oocyte mRNAs Are Associated With Increases in Proinflammatory Signaling and Gut Microbial Abundance of Lachnospiraceae in Female Mice

Dietary inclusion of a Saccharomyces cerevisiae metabolite improved reproductive performance but did not affect intestinal permeability in two chicken meat breeder lines

Gastrointestinal dysbiosis is a disturbance in mucosal homeostasis, producing low-grade chronic intestinal inflammation and impaired intestinal barrier function. It is induced by several factors, including nutrition and stress, which are both significant factors when considering current broiler breeder practices. A great grandparent (GGP) chicken meat line was identified displaying clinical signs characteristic of potential dysbiosis, including wet droppings and litter, in addition to reduced reproductive performance when compared to a consistently high performing line. This study aimed to determine whether the reduced reproductive performance observed in these hens was a result of dysbiosis and whether dietary supplementation with a Saccharomyces cerevisiae (SC) fermentation product would alleviate clinical signs. Dietary inclusion of SC did not influence intestinal permeability, WBC differentials, or corticosterone concentration in either the wet litter (WL) or high-performing (HP) breeder lines. Compared to hens from the HP line, WL line hens had a significant increase in intestinal permeability at 26 wk (onset of lay). WL hen heterophil counts were increased markedly at week 26 before declining. At weeks 26, 32, and 37 there were also significant increases in monocytes. Higher plasma corticosterone was also observed in WL hens at 37 wk. No significant differences in heterophil to lymphocyte (H:L) ratios or feather corticosterone were observed between lines. Dietary inclusion of SC supplementation to breeder diets had some benefit in regards to reducing hen mortality, improving egg production and hatchability but only in the WL line. Results from this study did not indicate that hens from the wet litter line were experiencing gut dysbiosis. Chronic intestinal inflammation may be a possible reason for the increase in intestinal permeability. These results do indicate that both breeder lines may be exhibiting physiological stress. Future investigation into the physiology and behavior around point of lay is required to find novel strategies to alleviate this stress and in turn, potentially improve welfare and production outcomes.

The buzz within: the role of the gut microbiome in honeybee social behavior

Gut symbionts influence the physiology and behavior of their host, but the extent to which these effects scale to social behaviors is an emerging area of research. The use of the western honeybee (Apis mellifera) as a model enables researchers to investigate the gut microbiome and behavior at several levels of social organization. Insight into gut microbial effects at the societal level is critical for our understanding of how involved microbial symbionts are in host biology. In this Commentary, we discuss recent findings in honeybee gut microbiome research and synthesize these with knowledge of the physiology and behavior of other model organisms to hypothesize how host-microbe interactions at the individual level could shape societal dynamics and evolution.

Optimal compatibility proportional screening of Trichosanthis Pericarpium - Trichosanthis Radix and its anti - Inflammatory components effect on experimental zebrafish and coughing mice

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The herbal pair of Trichosanthis Pericarpium (TP) - Trichosanthis Radix (TR) can be seen in the famous formula "Beimu Gualou San". It is a commonly selected combination of medicinal herbs for the treatment of cough with lung heat. Both drugs are derived from Trichosanthes kirilowii Maxim, a medicinal plant known for its ability to clear heat, resolve phlegm, produce saliva, and alleviate dryness. However, the optimal combination ratio and active ingredients of TP-TR have yet to be determined.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aims to investigate the optimal combination ratio of TP-TR and its anti-inflammatory active ingredients in cough treatment.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A zebrafish (Danio rerio) inflammatory injury model and response surface method were applied in the present study to determine the appropriate proportion of TP-TR. Chemical constituents in TP-TR were identified using HPLC-ELSD and UPLC-MS/MS methods. Subsequently, a cough mouse model was created using an ammonia solution to evaluate the effectiveness of the optimal TP-TR ratio. Network pharmacology and intestinal flora sequencing were used to validate the anti-inflammatory components of TP-TR.

RESULTS

The herbal pair of TP - TR at the ratio of 1:2 showed an optimal anti-inflammatory effect, with a composite inflammatory factor score of 119.645 in the zebrafish experiment. TP-TR combination facilitated the dissolution of glutamine, inosine, cytosine, isoquercetin, and other substances. In the animal model, the TP-TR (1:2) treatment significantly reduced the frequency of coughs and prolonged cough latency compared to the model group. Results of the network pharmacology indicated that inflammatory-related factors such as TLR4, STAT3, EGFR, and AKT1 played crucial roles in cough treatment with TP-TR, consistent with the validation experiment. The 16s rDNA sequencing results revealed a significant increase in the abundance of Clostridia_UCG-014, Lachnospiraceae, Christenella, Ruminococcus, and other species in the intestinal tract of mice after modelling. TP-TR (1:2) reduced the abundance of pro-inflammatory flora such as Clostridium_UCG-014 and Lachnospira, which were closely associated with L-lysine and trans-4-hydroxy-L-proline present in TP-TR according to correlation analysis.

CONCLUSION

TP-TR may promote the dissolution of glutamine, thymidine, inosine, cytosine, isoquercetin, and other components through their combination, thereby regulating the abundance of Clostridium_UCG-014 and Lachnospira and exerting an antitussive effect. This study, for the first time, showed that TP-TR at a 1:2 ratio exhibits superior anti-inflammatory effects. In addition to inflammatory mediators like EGFR, TLR4, AKT1, and STAT3, gut microbes could also serve as potential regulatory targets of TP-TR in the treatment of cough. 2'-Deoxyguanosine monohydrate, L-lysine, L-leucine, γ-aminobutyric acid, L-valine, L-tryptophan, L-proline, trans-4-hydroxy-L-proline, L-methionine, uridine, 2'-deoxyinosine, guanosine, cucurbitacin B and cucurbitacin D were identified as its anti-inflammatory active ingredients.

A Preliminary Study of the Potential Molecular Mechanisms of Individual Growth and Rumen Development in Calves with Different Feeding Patterns

At present, it is common to feed calves with "Concentrate", "Concentrate + hay" and TMR "Total Mixed Rations" feeding patterns in China, which achieved well feeding efficiency, but the three feeding patterns molecular regulation mechanism in actual production is still unclear. The study aimed to explore the most suitable feeding pattern for Chinese Holstein calves to improve the rumen fermentation function and growth performance of calves. In this regard, the interactions between rumen microorganisms and host metabolism were investigated. The rumen volume and weight of calves in the GF group were significantly higher than those in the GFF and TMR groups (p < 0.05), and the rumen pH of calves in the GF group was 6.47~6.79. Metagenomics analysis revealed that the rumen microbiome of GF and GFF calves had higher relative abundances of Methanobrevibacter, Methanosphaera, and Methanolacinia (p < 0.05). Prevotella multisaccharivorax was significantly more abundant in the rumen of GF calves (p < 0.05), indicating that GF group calves had a stronger ability to ferment sugars. Notably, in the pyruvate metabolic pathway, phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase was significantly up-regulated in GF calves compared with the TMR group, and pyruvate-phosphate dikinase was significantly down-regulated. Metabolomic results showed that Ursodeoxycholic acid was significantly up-regulated in GF calves, and most of the differential metabolites were enriched in Bile secretion pathways. The association analysis study found that the microorganisms of Prevotella and Ruminococcaceae might cooperate with the host, which was helpful for the digestion and absorption of lipids and made the calves have better growth. The three feeding modes had similar effects, but the 'GF' feeding pattern was more beneficial to the individual growth and ruminal development regarding ruminal morphology, contents physiology and microorganisms. Furthermore, the synergistic effect of rumen microorganisms and the host could more effectively hydrolyze lipid substances and promote the absorption of lipids, which was of great significance to the growth of calves.

Effects of gut microbiota on omega-3-mediated ovary and metabolic benefits in polycystic ovary syndrome mice

BACKGROUND

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common reproductive endocrine disorder that frequently exhibits low-grade inflammation, pro-oxidant activity, and gut dysbiosis. PCOS has become one of the leading causes of female infertility worldwide. Recently, omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) have been proven to benefit metabolic disorders in PCOS patients. However, its roles in the regulation of metabolic and endocrinal balances in PCOS pathophysiology are not clear. In the present study, we aimed to explore how omega-3 PUFAs alleviate ovarian dysfunction and insulin resistance in mice with dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA)-induced PCOS by modulating the gut microbiota.

METHODS

We induced PCOS in female mice by injecting them with DHEA and then treated them with omega-3 PUFAs. 16S ribosomal DNA (rDNA) amplicon sequencing, fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) and antibiotic treatment were used to evaluate the role of microbiota in the regulation of ovarian functions and insulin resistance (IR) by omega-3 PUFAs. To further investigate the mechanism of gut microbiota on omega-3-mediated ovarian and metabolic protective effects, inflammatory and oxidative stress markers in ovaries and thermogenic markers in subcutaneous and brown adipose tissues were investigated.

RESULTS

We found that oral supplementation with omega-3 PUFAs ameliorates the PCOS phenotype. 16S rDNA analysis revealed that omega-3 PUFA treatment increased the abundance of beneficial bacteria in the gut, thereby alleviating DHEA-induced gut dysbiosis. Antibiotic treatment and FMT experiments further demonstrated that the mechanisms underlying omega-3 benefits likely involve direct effects on the ovary to inhibit inflammatory cytokines such as IL-1β, TNF-α and IL-18. In addition, the gut microbiota played a key role in the improvement of adipose tissue morphology and function by decreasing multilocular cells and thermogenic markers such as Ucp1, Pgc1a, Cited and Cox8b within the subcutaneous adipose tissues.

CONCLUSION

These findings indicate that omega-3 PUFAs ameliorate androgen-induced gut microbiota dysbiosis. The gut microbiota plays a key role in the regulation of omega-3-mediated IR protective effects in polycystic ovary syndrome mice. Moreover, omega-3 PUFA-regulated improvements in the ovarian dysfunction associated with PCOS likely involve direct effects on the ovary to inhibit inflammation. Our findings suggest that omega-3 supplementation may be a promising therapeutic approach for the treatment of PCOS by modulating gut microbiota and alleviating ovarian dysfunction and insulin resistance.

Ovarian inflammation mediated by Toll-like receptor 4 increased transcripts of maternal effect genes and decreased embryo development†

Obese women are subfertile and have reduced assisted reproduction success, which may be due to reduced oocyte competence. We hypothesize that consumption of a high-fat/high-sugar diet induces ovarian inflammation, which is a primary contributor to decreased oocyte quality and pre-implantation embryo development. To test this hypothesis, C57BL/6 (B6) mice with a normal inflammatory response and C3H/HeJ (C3H) mice with a dampened inflammatory response due to dysfunctional Toll-like receptor 4 were fed either normal chow or high-fat/high-sugar diet. In both B6 and C3H females, high-fat/high-sugar diet induced excessive adiposity and hyperglycemia compared to normal chow-fed counterparts. Conversely, ovarian CD68 levels and oocyte expression of oxidative stress markers were increased when collected from B6 high-fat/high-sugar but not C3H high-fat/high-sugar mice. Following in vitro fertilization of in vivo matured oocytes, blastocyst development was decreased in B6-high-fat/high-sugar but not C3H high-fat/high-sugar mice. Expression of cumulus cell markers of oocyte quality were altered in both B6 high-fat/high-sugar and C3H high-fat/high-sugar. However, there were no diet-dependent differences in spindle abnormalities in either B6 or C3H mice, suggesting potential defects in cytoplasmic maturation. Indeed, there were significant increases in the abundance of maternal effect gene mRNAs in oocytes from only B6 high-fat/high-sugar mice. These differentially expressed genes encode proteins of the subcortical maternal complex and associated with mRNA metabolism and epigenetic modifications. These genes regulate maternal mRNA degradation at oocyte maturation, mRNA clearance at the zygotic genome activation, and methylation of imprinted genes suggesting a mechanism by which inflammation induced oxidative stress impairs embryo development.

Sheep with ovarian androgen excess have fibrosis and follicular arrest with increased mRNA abundance for steroidogenic enzymes and gonadotropin receptors

An androgen excess ovarian micro-environment may limit follicle progression in sheep. Two populations of ewes with divergent follicular fluid androstenedione (A4) were identified in a flock in Jordan: High A4; (A4) ≥ 30 ng/mL, (N = 12) or Control A4 (Control); A4 ≤ 15 ng/mL; (N = 12). We hypothesized High A4 ewes would have increased steroidogenic enzyme mRNA abundance, inflammation, and follicular arrest. Messenger RNA abundance for steroidogenic enzymes StAR, CYP17A1, CYP11A1, and HSD3B1 were increased in theca cells while CYP17A1, CYP19A1, and HSD3B1 were increased in granulosa cells in High A4 ewes compared to Control. Gonadotropin receptor mRNA expression for LHCGR was increased in theca and FSHR in granulosa in High A4 ewes. Messenger RNA expression of FOS when reduced, increases expression of CYP17A1 which was observed in High A4 granulosa cells compared to Control. Furthermore, High A4 ewes had greater numbers of primordial follicles (P < 0.001) and fewer developing follicles compared to Control before, and after 7 d of culture, indicating follicular arrest was not alleviated by cortex culture. Increased fibrosis in the ovarian cortex was detected in High A4 ewes relative to Control (P < 0.001) suggesting increased inflammation and altered extracellular matrix deposition. Thus, this High A4 ewes population has similar characteristics to High A4 cows and women with polycystic ovary syndrome suggesting that naturally occurring androgen excess occurs in multiple species and may be a causative factor in follicular arrest and subsequent female sub- or infertility.

Role of Obesity in Female Reproduction

Contemporary scientists need no "p value" and "relative risk" statistics to be exquisitely aware of the increasing prevalence of obesity and complications posed by obesity. It is now well recognized that obesity is strongly associated with type 2 diabetes, hypertension, vascular disease, tumors and reproductive disorders. Obese women show lower levels of gonadotropin hormones, reduced fecundity, higher miscarriage rates and poorer outcomes of in vitro fertilization, revealing that obesity affects female reproduction. In addition, adipose tissue contains special immune cells and obesity-induced inflammation is a chronic, low-grade inflammatory response. Herein, we mainly review detrimental influences of obesity in the complete process of female reproduction, including hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis, oocyte maturation, embryo and fetal development. In the latter part, we view obesity-induced inflammation and discuss related epigenetic impact on female reproduction.

Effects of intestinal flora on polycystic ovary syndrome

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder in women of reproductive age. Its clinical characteristics are mainly oligo-ovulation or anovulation, hyperandrogenemia (HA) and insulin resistance (IR). PCOS is considered to be one of the main causes of infertility in women of childbearing age, and its pathogenesis is still unclear. Intestinal flora, known as the "second genome" of human beings, is closely related to metabolic diseases, immune diseases and infectious diseases. At the same time, mounting evidence suggests that intestinal flora can regulate insulin synthesis and secretion, affect androgen metabolism and follicular development, and is involved in the occurrence of chronic inflammation and obesity. The imbalance of intestinal flora is caused by the abnormal interaction between intestinal flora and host cells caused by the change of intestinal microbial diversity, which is related to the occurrence and development of PCOS. The adjustment of intestinal flora may be a potential direction for the treatment of PCOS.

High-Fat Diet and Female Fertility across Lifespan: A Comparative Lesson from Mammal Models

Female reproduction focuses mainly on achieving fully grown follicles and competent oocytes to be successfully fertilized, as well as on nourishing the developing offspring once pregnancy occurs. Current evidence demonstrates that obesity and/or high-fat diet regimes can perturbate these processes, leading to female infertility and transgenerational disorders. Since the mechanisms and reproductive processes involved are not yet fully clarified, the present review is designed as a systematic and comparative survey of the available literature. The available data demonstrate the adverse influences of obesity on diverse reproductive processes, such as folliculogenesis, oogenesis, and embryo development/implant. The negative reproductive impact may be attributed to a direct action on reproductive somatic and germinal compartments and/or to an indirect influence mediated by the endocrine, metabolic, and immune axis control systems. Overall, the present review highlights the fragmentation of the current information limiting the comprehension of the reproductive impact of a high-fat diet. Based on the incidence and prevalence of obesity in the Western countries, this topic becomes a research challenge to increase self-awareness of dietary reproductive risk to propose solid and rigorous preventive dietary regimes, as well as to develop targeted pharmacological interventions.

The effects of microbiota on reproductive health: A review

Reproductive issues are becoming an increasing global problem. There is increasing interest in the relationship between microbiota and reproductive health. Stable microbiota communities exist in the gut, reproductive tract, uterus, testes, and semen. Various effects (e.g., epigenetic modifications, nervous system, metabolism) of dysbiosis in the microbiota can impair gamete quality; interfere with zygote formation, embryo implantation, and embryo development; and increase disease susceptibility, thus adversely impacting reproductive capacity and pregnancy. The maintenance of a healthy microbiota can protect the host from pathogens, increase reproductive potential, and reduce the rates of adverse pregnancy outcomes. In conclusion, this review discusses microbiota in the male and female reproductive systems of multiple animal species. It explores the effects and mechanisms of microbiota on reproduction, factors that influence microbiota composition, and applications of microbiota in reproductive disorder treatment and detection. The findings support novel approaches for managing reproductive diseases through microbiota improvement and monitoring. In addition, it will stimulate further systematic explorations of microbiota-mediated effects on reproduction.

Acupuncture for Female Infertility: Discussion on Action Mechanism and Application

A higher incidence of female infertility has been reported with an unexpectedly early appearance in recent years. The female infertility treatment and application of assisted reproductive technology have recently gained immense interest from scientists. Many studies have discussed the beneficial effects of acupuncture on female infertility. With advancements in science and medical technology, acupuncture-related research has increased in investigating its effectiveness in treating female infertility. This review focuses on a compilation of research in recent years on acupuncture for female infertility treatment and the exploration of the underlying mechanism. For this purpose, literature was searched using various search engines like PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. The search was refined by only focusing on recent studies on acupuncture effectiveness and mechanism in female infertility and evaluating pregnancy outcomes.

Prebiotic-like cyclodextrin assisted silybin on NAFLD through restoring liver and gut homeostasis

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common chronic liver disease with no currently approved treatment. The natural compound silybin (SLN) has versatile hepatoprotective efficacy with negligible adverse effects; however, poor absorption limits its clinical applications. Gut microbiota has been proposed to play a crucial role in the pathophysiology of NAFLD and targeted for disease control. Cyclodextrins, the cyclic oligosaccharides, were documented to have various health benefits with potential prebiotic properties. This study aimed to develop a silybin-2-hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin inclusion (SHβCD) to improve the therapeutic efficacy of SLN and elucidate the mechanisms of improvement. The results showed that SLN formed a 1:1 stoichiometric inclusion complex with HP-β-CD. The solubility of SLN was increased by generating SHβCD, resulting in improved drug permeability and bioavailability. In high-fat diet (HFD)-fed hamsters, SHβCD modulated gut health by restoring the gut microbiota and intestinal integrity. SHβCD showed superior anti-lipid accumulation, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects compared with SLN alone. Transcriptome analysis in the liver tissue implied that the improved inflammation and/or energy homeostasis was the potential mechanism. Therefore, SHβCD may be a promising alternative for the treatment of NAFLD, attributing to the dual functions of HβCD on drug absorption and gut microbial homeostasis.

Modified Banxia Xiexin Decoction Ameliorates Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome With Insulin Resistance by Regulating Intestinal Microbiota

Objective

To analyze the characteristics of the intestinal microbiota of polycystic ovarian syndrome with insulin resistance (PCOS-IR) and explore the possible mechanism of modified Banxia Xiexin Decoction in the treatment of PCOS-IR.

Methods

A total of 17 specific pathogen-free (SPF) female Sprague–Dawley (SD) rats, aged 21 days, were selected and randomly divided into the control group (group Z, n = 6), model group (group M, n = 6), and treatment group (group A, n = 5). Letrozole combined with a high-fat diet was used to induce the PCOS-IR model. Rats in group A were treated with modified Banxia Xiexin Decoction for 2 weeks after the end of modeling; then the characteristics of reproductive, metabolic, inflammatory, and intestinal microbiota were compared among three groups.

Results

The PCOS-IR model had an imbalance of intestinal microbiota, and the enriched microbiota was mainly class Coriobacteria, order Clostridiales, and genus Clostridium_sensu_stricto_1. Modified Banxia Xiexin Decoction can regulate the disorder of intestinal microbiota diversity, significantly increase the abundance of phyla Verrucomicrobiota Proteobacteria and genera Akkermansia and Blautia, and decrease the abundance of genus Clostridium_sensu_stricto_1.

Conclusion

Genus Clostridium_sensu_stricto_1 might be the pivotal pathogenic bacteria of PCOS-IR. Modified Banxia Xiexin Decoction may ameliorate PCOS-IR by regulating intestinal microbiota imbalance and improving metabolic disorders.

Effects of Electroacupuncture on the Gut Microbiome in Cisplatin-Induced Premature Ovarian Failure Mice

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.

Impact of obesity on medically assisted reproductive treatments

Increasing evidence has demonstrated that obesity impairs female fertility and negatively affects human reproductive outcome following medically assisted reproduction (MAR) treatment. In the United States, 36.5% of women of reproductive age are obese. Obesity results not only in metabolic disorders including type II diabetes and cardiovascular disease, but might also be responsible for chronic inflammation and oxidative stress. Several studies have demonstrated that inflammation and reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the ovary modify steroidogenesis and might induce anovulation, as well as affecting oocyte meiotic maturation, leading to impaired oocyte quality and embryo developmental competence. Although the adverse effect of female obesity on human reproduction has been an object of debate in the past, there is growing evidence showing a link between female obesity and increased risk of infertility. However, further studies need to clarify some gaps in knowledge. We reviewed the recent evidence on the association between female obesity and infertility. In particular, we highlight the association between fat distribution and reproductive outcome, and how the inflammation and oxidative stress mechanisms might reduce ovarian function and oocyte quality. Finally, we evaluate the connection between female obesity and endometrial receptivity.

The impact of the gut microbiota on the reproductive and metabolic endocrine system

As the gut microbiota exerts various effects on the intestinal milieu which influences distant organs and pathways, it is considered to be a full-fledged endocrine organ. The microbiota plays a major role in the reproductive endocrine system throughout a woman's lifetime by interacting with estrogen, androgens, insulin, and other hormones. Imbalance of the gut microbiota composition can lead to several diseases and conditions, such as pregnancy complications, adverse pregnancy outcomes, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, and cancer; however, research on the mechanisms is limited. More effort should be concentrated on exploring the potential causes and underlying the mechanisms of microbiota-hormone-mediated disease, and providing novel therapeutic and preventive strategies.As the gut microbiota exerts various effects on the intestinal milieu which influences distant organs and pathways, it is considered to be a full-fledged endocrine organ. The microbiota plays a major role in the reproductive endocrine system throughout a woman's lifetime by interacting with estrogen, androgens, insulin, and other hormones. Imbalance of the gut microbiota composition can lead to several diseases and conditions, such as pregnancy complications, adverse pregnancy outcomes, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, and cancer; however, research on the mechanisms is limited. More effort should be concentrated on exploring the potential causes and underlying the mechanisms of microbiota-hormone-mediated disease, and providing novel therapeutic and preventive strategies.

Obesity and oocyte quality: Significant implications for ART and Emerging mechanistic insights

The prevalence of obesity in adults worldwide, and specifically in women of reproductive age, is concerning given the risks to fertility posed by the increased risk of type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome and other non-communicable diseases. Obesity has a multi-systemic impact in female physiology that is characterized by the presence of oxidative stress, lipotoxicity, and the activation of pro-inflammatory pathways, inducing tissue-specific insulin resistance and ultimately conducive to abnormal ovarian function. A higher body mass is linked to Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, dysregulated menstrual cycles, anovulation, and longer time to pregnancy, even in ovulatory women. In the context of ART, compared to women of normal BMI, obese women have worse outcomes in every step of their journey, resulting in reduced success measured as live birth rate. Even after pregnancy is achieved, obese women have a higher chance of miscarriage, gestational diabetes, pregnancy complications, birth defects, and most worryingly, a higher risk of stillbirth and neonatal death. The potential for compounding effects of ART on pregnancy complications and infant morbidities in obese women has not been studied. There is still much debate in the field on whether these poorer outcomes are mainly driven by defects in oocyte quality, abnormal embryo development or an unaccommodating uterine environment, however the clinical evidence to date suggests a combination of all three are responsible. Animal models of maternal obesity shed light on the mechanisms underlaying the effects of obesity on the peri-conception environment, with recent findings pointing to lipotoxicity in the ovarian environment as a key driver of defects in oocytes that have not only reduced developmental competence but long-lasting effects in offspring health.

Saturated free fatty acids induce placental trophoblast lipoapoptosis

INTRODUCTION

Obesity during pregnancy increases the risk for maternal complications like gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and maternal inflammation. Maternal obesity also increases the risk of childhood obesity, intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) and diabetes to the offspring. Increased circulating free fatty acids (FFAs) in obesity due to adipose tissue lipolysis induces lipoapoptosis to hepatocytes, cholangiocytes, and pancreatic-β-cells. During the third trimester of human pregnancy, there is an increase in maternal lipolysis and release of FFAs into the circulation. It is currently unknown if increased FFAs during gestation as a result of maternal obesity cause placental cell lipoapoptosis. Increased exposure of FFAs during maternal obesity has been shown to result in placental lipotoxicity. The objective of the present study is to determine saturated FFA-induced trophoblast lipoapoptosis and also to test the protective role of monounsaturated fatty acids against FFA-induced trophoblast lipoapoptosis using in vitro cell culture model. Here, we hypothesize that saturated FFAs induce placental trophoblast lipoapoptosis, which was prevented by monounsaturated fatty acids.

METHODS

Biochemical and structural markers of apoptosis by characteristic nuclear morphological changes with DAPI staining, and caspase 3/7 activity was assessed. Cleaved PARP and cleaved caspase 3 were examined by western blot analysis.

RESULTS

Treatment of trophoblast cell lines, JEG-3 and JAR cells with palmitate (PA) or stearate (SA) induces trophoblast lipoapoptosis as evidenced by a significant increase in apoptotic nuclear morphological changes and caspase 3/7 activity. We observed that saturated FFAs caused a concentration-dependent increase in placental trophoblast lipoapoptosis. We also observed that monounsaturated fatty acids like palmitoleate and oleate mitigates placental trophoblast lipoapoptosis caused due to PA exposure.

CONCLUSION

We show that saturated FFAs induce trophoblast lipoapoptosis. Co-treatment of monounsaturated fatty acids like palmitoleate and oleate protects against FFA-induced trophoblast lipoapoptosis.

Chronic Inflammation in PCOS: The Potential Benefits of Specialized Pro-Resolving Lipid Mediators (SPMs) in the Improvement of the Resolutive Response

PCOS as the most common endocrine disorder of women in their reproductive age affects between 5–15% of the female population. Apart from its cardinal symptoms, like irregular and anovulatory cycles, hyperandrogenemia and a typical ultrasound feature of the ovary, obesity, and insulin resistance are often associated with the disease. Furthermore, PCOS represents a status of chronic inflammation with permanently elevated levels of inflammatory markers including IL-6 and IL-18, TNF-α, and CRP. Inflammation, as discovered only recently, consists of two processes occurring concomitantly: active initiation, involving “classical” mediators including prostaglandins and leukotrienes, and active resolution processes based on the action of so-called specialized pro-resolving mediators (SPMs). These novel lipid mediator molecules derive from the essential ω3-poly-unsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) DHA and EPA and are synthesized via specific intermediates. The role and benefits of SPMs in chronic inflammatory diseases like obesity, atherosclerosis, and Diabetes mellitus has become a subject of intense research during the last years and since PCOS features several of these pathologies, this review aims at summarizing potential roles of SPMs in this disease and their putative use as novel therapeutics.

Inflammation in Obesity-Related Complications in Children: The Protective Effect of Diet and Its Potential Role as a Therapeutic Agent

Obesity is a growing health problem in both children and adults, impairing physical and mental state and impacting health care system costs in both developed and developing countries. It is well-known that individuals with excessive weight gain frequently develop obesity-related complications, which are mainly known as Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs), including cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes mellitus, metabolic syndrome, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, hypertension, hyperlipidemia and many other risk factors proven to be associated with chronic inflammation, causing disability and reduced life expectancy. This review aims to present and discuss complications related to inflammation in pediatric obesity, the critical role of nutrition and diet in obesity-comorbidity prevention and treatment, and the impact of lifestyle. Appropriate early dietary intervention for the management of pediatric overweight and obesity is recommended for overall healthy growth and prevention of comorbidities in adulthood.

High-fat diet-induced dysregulation of ovarian gene expression is restored with chronic omega-3 fatty acid supplementation

Chronic high-fat diet (HFD) consumption causes ovarian dysfunction in rodents. Acute dietary treatment with docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) increases oocyte quality and ovarian reserve at advanced reproductive age. We hypothesized that DHA supplementation after HFD exposure reverses HFD-induced ovarian defects. We conducted a dietary intervention with reversal to chow, DHA-supplemented chow, or DHA-supplemented HFD after HFD consumption. After 10 weeks, HFD-fed mice had impaired estrous cyclicity, decreased primordial follicles, and altered ovarian expression of 24 genes compared to chow controls. Diet reversal to either chow or chow + DHA restored estrous cyclicity, however only chow + DHA appeared to mitigated the impact of HFD on ovarian reserve. All dietary interventions restored HFD-dysregulated gene expression to chow levels. We found no association between follicular fluid DHA levels and ovarian reserve. In conclusion our data suggest some benefit of DHA supplementation after HFD, particularly in regards to ovarian gene expression, however complete restoration of ovarian function was not achieved.

Fat-1 Transgene Is Associated With Improved Reproductive Outcomes

High intake of ω-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) has been associated with a variety of health benefits. However, the role of ω-3 PUFAs in female reproductive function is unclear, with studies showing both positive and negative effects. The type of diet that ω-3 fatty acids are consumed with, for example, a balanced diet vs a high-fat diet (HFD), may influence how ω-3 fatty acids affect female reproductive function. To address the role of ω-3 PUFAs in female reproduction, we used the fat-1 mouse both with and without HFD exposure. Fat-1 mice constitutively express the fat-1 transgene, allowing the conversion of ω-6 to ω-3 fatty acids to yield an optimal tissue ratio of ω-6 to ω-3 fatty acids (∼1:1). In our study, at 15 weeks of age, fat-1 mice had elevated primordial follicles compared with wild-type controls with both standard chow and HFD feeding. Higher serum levels of the ω-3 docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), docosapentaenoic acid (DPA), and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) were positively associated with primordial follicle numbers, whereas the ratio of the ω-6 arachidonic acid to EPA + DPA + DHA had the opposite effect. Furthermore, fat-1 mice had increased pregnancy rates and shorter time to pregnancy when fed an HFD compared with wild-type mice. In conclusion, our novel preclinical model suggests that high tissue levels of long-chain ω-3 PUFAs are associated with an improved ovarian reserve and improved reproductive outcomes. Further studies are needed to evaluate ω-3 PUFAs as a potential intervention strategy in women with diminished ovarian reserve.

Protective effects of Paederia scandens extract on rheumatoid arthritis mouse model by modulating gut microbiota

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Paederia scandens (Lour.) Merr. (P. scandens) has been traditionally used to treat the pain of rheumatism.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The purpose of this study was to investigate the possible influences of P. scandens on the progression of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), inflammatory responses and gut bacterial communities in RA mouse model.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) mice were orally administered with P. scandens extract (PSE) for 24 days. Then, pro-inflammatory cytokine levels in the serum were measured, and gut microbiota was examined with Illumina HiSeq.

RESULTS

Compared with the vehicle group, PSE significantly inhibited paw swelling and reduced arthritis score. Histological examination of ankle soft tissue of demonstrated PSE effectively inhibited the tissue fibrosis and inflammatory cell infiltration. The increased serum levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-7, and IL-23 in RA mice were significantly suppressed by PSE. Moreover, PSE treatment help restore gut microbial ecosystem altered in RA mice including decreasing relative abundance of inflammatory related microorganisms, Desulfovibrio, Mucispirillum, Helicobacter, and Lachnospiraceae.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that PSE has therapeutic effects in RA mice with CIA, showing the potential as anti-arthritis reagent.

Inflammatory markers in human follicular fluid correlate with lipid levels and Body Mass Index

The detrimental consequences of obesity on female fertility are well known, but the functional changes that occur in the ovary in response to elevated BMI are not clear. Obesity induces multiple components of a systemic inflammatory state that is a key pathway by which it initiates tissue dysfunction in adipose, liver and muscle; however whether obesity induces similar inflammatory changes in the ovary has not been fully investigated. This is important to understand because it is increasingly clear that obesity at conception impacts not only pregnancy rates but also influences pre-implantation embryo development. To further understand the characteristics of inflammation in the ovaries of obese women we analysed a panel of cytokines (IL6, IL10 and TNFα), adipokines (adiponectin, leptin and monocyte chemotactic factor 1 (MCP-1)) and acute phase proteins (C-Reactive Protein (CRP) and sICAM-1) in the ovarian follicular fluid obtained at oocyte aspiration from women (n = 48) who were lean, overweight or obese. We hypothesised that adipokines and pro-inflammatory cytokines would be correlated with and/or dysregulated by increasing Body Mass Index (BMI). Surprisingly however, the majority were not related to BMI but instead were positively correlated with lipid levels in follicular fluid, namely triglycerides and free fatty acids. Further, as is typical of metabolic inflammation, the inflammatory markers that were associated with intra-follicular lipids included both pro-inflammatory (CRP, IL6, TNFα) and anti-inflammatory (adiponectin, IL10) mediators. The direct consequences of an ovarian microenvironment containing high levels of lipids and inflammatory mediators are not known but could impact luteinisation, ovulation and/or oocyte developmental competence.

Using Single Molecule mRNA Fluorescent in Situ Hybridization (RNA-FISH) to Quantify mRNAs in Individual Murine Oocytes and Embryos

Changes in abundance of mRNAs during oocyte growth and maturation and during pre-implantation embryo development have been documented using quantitative real-time RT-PCR (qPCR), microarray analyses, and whole genome sequencing. However, these techniques require amplification of mRNAs, normalization using housekeeping genes, can be biased for abundant transcripts, and/or require large numbers of oocytes and embryos which can be difficult to acquire from mammalian species. We optimized a single molecule RNA fluorescence in situ hybridization (RNA-FISH) protocol, which amplifies fluorescence signal to detect candidate transcripts, for use with individual oocytes and embryos. Quantification using the software Localize showed patterns of Gdf9 and Pou5f1 mRNA expression in oocytes and embryos that were consistent with previously published data. Interestingly, low levels of Nanog mRNA were also accurately and reproducibly measured in oocytes and one- and two-cell embryos suggesting that RNA-FISH could be used to detect and quantify low abundance transcripts. Unlike other techniques, RNA-FISH is also able to detect changes in the localization patterns of mRNAs which may be used to monitor post-transcriptional regulation of a transcript. Thus, RNA-FISH represents an important technique to investigate potential mechanisms associated with the synthesis and stability of candidate mRNAs in mammalian oocytes and embryos.

Effect of partially replacing a barley-based concentrate with flaxseed-based products on the rumen bacterial population of lactating Holstein dairy cows

AIMS

The effects of partial replacement of a barley-based concentrate with flaxseed-based products on the rumen bacterial population of lactating Holstein dairy cows were evaluated.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Treatments fed were CONT, a normal diet that included barley silage, alfalfa hay and a barley-based concentrate that contained no flaxseed or faba beans; FLAX, inclusion of a nonextruded flaxseed-based product containing 55·0% flaxseed, 37·8% field peas and 6·9% alfalfa; EXT, similar to FLAX, but the product was extruded and EXTT, similar to FLAX, but product was extruded and field peas were replaced by high-tannin faba beans. The rumen bacterial population was evaluated by utilizing 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Most abundant phyla, families and genera were unaffected. However, some taxa were affected; for example, unsaturated fatty acid content was negatively correlated with Clostridiaceae, and tannin content was negatively correlated with BS11 and Paraprevotellaceae.

CONCLUSIONS

Predominant rumen bacterial taxa were not affected, but the abundance of some taxa found in lower proportions shifted, possibly due to sensitivity to unsaturated fatty acids or tannins.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

Flaxseed-based products were effective for partially replacing barley-based concentrate in rations of lactating dairy cows. No negative effects of these products were observed on the abundance of predominant rumen bacterial taxa, with only minor shifts in less abundant bacteria.

Obesity Modulates Inflammation and Lipid Metabolism Oocyte Gene Expression: A Single-Cell Transcriptome Perspective

CONTEXT

It is hypothesized that obesity adversely affects the ovarian environment, which can disrupt oocyte maturation and embryonic development.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to compare oocyte gene expression profiles and follicular fluid (FF) content from overweight/obese (OW) women and normal-weight (NW) women who were undergoing fertility treatments.

DESIGN

Using single-cell transcriptomic analyses, we investigated oocyte gene expression using RNA sequencing.

PATIENTS OR OTHER PARTICIPANTS

Eleven OW women and 13 NW women undergoing fertility treatments were enrolled.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Oocyte messenger RNA profiles as well as serum and FF hormone and lipid levels were assessed.

RESULTS

OW women had significantly higher body mass index, body fat percentage, and serum homeostatic model assessment-insulin resistance index compared with NW women (P < 0.01). Serum leptin and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels as well as FF leptin, CRP, and triglyceride levels were increased (P < 0.05) in OW compared with NW women. Oocytes from OW women had increased expression of proinflammatory (CXCL2; P = 0.071) and oxidative stress-related (DUSP1; P = 0.051) genes but had decreased expression of GAS7 (fat metabolism; P = 0.065), TXNIP (oxidative stress; P = 0.055), and transcription factors ID3 (P = 0.075) and TWIST1 (P = 0.099) compared with NW women.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings provide evidence for the significant influence of body composition on oocyte transcript abundance in women undergoing hormonal induction to retrieve oocytes. They further identify the potential for maternal diet to influence oocyte gene expression. The preconception period is, therefore, an important window of opportunity to consider for lifestyle interventions.

Transmission of Metabolic Dysfunction Across Generations

Recent human and animal studies investigating the roles of the genome, epigenome, and environmental cues have identified associations between offspring predisposition to life-long obesity/metabolic disease and epigenetic modifications such as DNA methylation. This review explores the mechanisms by which maternal exposures impair the health of not only the next generation but also potentially future generations of offspring.