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Nguyen TMD, Nguyen TT, Combarnous Y. Single-chain human follicle-stimulating hormone with a di-N-glycosylated linker. Theriogenology 2024; 224:50-57. [PMID: 38733814 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2024.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2024] [Revised: 03/31/2024] [Accepted: 05/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024]
Abstract
The classic way to produce single-chain (sc) glycoprotein hormones is to fuse their two subunits through the carboxy-terminal peptide (CTP) from human Choriogonadotropin (hCG). The CTP confers a longer half-life to single-chain hormones thanks to its four O-glycosyl side chains. However, unlike syncytiotrophoblastic cells, most cells used for recombinant protein production do not transfer O-glycosyl chains efficiently. We thus choose to fuse the hFSH subunits with a linker comprising two N-glycosyl side chains (sc-hFSH LNN) or none (sc-hFSH L0N), that were generated using two expression systems, HEK293 and CHO K1 cells. Their production levels and biological activities were tested and compared. Both expression systems successfully produced biologically active sc-hFSH, but, in our hands, CHO K1 cells yielded about 30-fold higher amounts of recombinant protein than HEK293 cells. Moreover, sc-hFSH L0N was considerably less expressed than sc-hFSH LNN in both cell types. Our data show that sc-hFSH L0N and sc-hFSH LNN produced from both cell lines stimulate cAMP and progesterone production in mLTC cells expressing hFSH receptors and exhibit similar B/I (in vitro Bioactivity/Immuno activity) ratios. Finally, the ratio of in vivo/in vitro bioactivities for sc-hFSH LNN relative to natural pituitary heterodimeric hFSH increased 8-fold, most likely because of a longer half-life in the blood.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Thi Tho Nguyen
- Quy Nhon University, Binh Dinh Province, Viet Nam; Graduate University of Science and Technology, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, Viet Nam
| | - Yves Combarnous
- Joint INRAE, CNRS, Tours University Unit, Physiologie de La Reproduction & des Comportements (PRC), 37380, Nouzilly, France
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2
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Abreu C, Grunberg K, Bonilla M, Crispo M, Pantano S, Jaeschke J, Comini MA, Bollati‐Fogolín M. Expression and functional characterization of chimeric recombinant bovine follicle-stimulating hormone produced in Leishmania tarentolae. Microb Biotechnol 2024; 17:e14444. [PMID: 38564168 PMCID: PMC10986757 DOI: 10.1111/1751-7915.14444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Assisted reproductive techniques are routinely used in livestock species to increase and enhance productivity. Ovarian hyperstimulation is a process that currently relies on administering pituitary-derived follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) or equine chorionic gonadotropin in combination with other hormones to promote the maturation of multiple follicles and thereby achieve superovulation. The use of partially purified preparations of FSH extracted from natural sources is associated with suboptimal and variable results. Recombinant FSH (rFSH) has been produced in a variety of heterologous organisms. However, attaining a bioactive rFSH of high quality and at low cost for use in livestock remains challenging. Here we report the production and characterization of a single chain bovine rFSH consisting of the β- and α-subunit fused by a polypeptide linker (scbFSH) using Leishmania tarentolae as heterologous expression system. This unicellular eukaryote is non-pathogenic to mammals, can be grown in bioreactors using simple and inexpensive semisynthetic media at 26°C and does not require CO2 or bovine serum supplementation. Stable cell lines expressing scbFSH in an inducible fashion were generated and characterized for their productivity. Different culture conditions and purification procedures were evaluated, and the recombinant product was biochemically and biologically characterized, including bioassays in an animal model. The results demonstrate that L. tarentolae is a suitable host for producing a homogeneous, glycosylated and biologically active form of scbFSH with a reasonable yield.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cecilia Abreu
- Molecular, Cellular and Animal Technology ProgramInstitut Pasteur de MontevideoMontevideoUruguay
| | - Karin Grunberg
- Molecular, Cellular and Animal Technology ProgramInstitut Pasteur de MontevideoMontevideoUruguay
| | - Mariana Bonilla
- Laboratory Redox Biology of TrypanosomesInstitut Pasteur de MontevideoMontevideoUruguay
| | - Martina Crispo
- Molecular, Cellular and Animal Technology ProgramInstitut Pasteur de MontevideoMontevideoUruguay
- Laboratory Animal Biotechnology UnitInstitut Pasteur de MontevideoMontevideoUruguay
| | - Sergio Pantano
- Molecular, Cellular and Animal Technology ProgramInstitut Pasteur de MontevideoMontevideoUruguay
- Biomolecular Simulations GroupInstitut Pasteur de MontevideoMontevideoUruguay
| | | | - Marcelo A. Comini
- Molecular, Cellular and Animal Technology ProgramInstitut Pasteur de MontevideoMontevideoUruguay
- Laboratory Redox Biology of TrypanosomesInstitut Pasteur de MontevideoMontevideoUruguay
| | - Mariela Bollati‐Fogolín
- Molecular, Cellular and Animal Technology ProgramInstitut Pasteur de MontevideoMontevideoUruguay
- Cell Biology Unit, Institut Pasteur de MontevideoMontevideoUruguay
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3
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Converse A, Liu Z, Patel JC, Shakyawar S, Guda C, Bousfield GR, Kumar TR, Duncan FE. Oocyte quality is enhanced by hypoglycosylated FSH through increased cell-to-cell interaction during mouse follicle development. Development 2023; 150:dev202170. [PMID: 37870089 PMCID: PMC10651093 DOI: 10.1242/dev.202170] [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: 07/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
Macroheterogeneity in follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) β-subunit N-glycosylation results in distinct FSH glycoforms. Hypoglycosylated FSH21 is the abundant and more bioactive form in pituitaries of females under 35 years of age, whereas fully glycosylated FSH24 is less bioactive and increases with age. To investigate whether the shift in FSH glycoform abundance contributes to the age-dependent decline in oocyte quality, the direct effects of FSH glycoforms on folliculogenesis and oocyte quality were determined using an encapsulated in vitro mouse follicle growth system. Long-term culture (10-12 days) with FSH21 (10 ng/ml) enhanced follicle growth, estradiol secretion and oocyte quality compared with FSH24 (10 ng/ml) treatment. FSH21 enhanced establishment of transzonal projections, gap junctions and cell-to-cell communication within 24 h in culture. Transient inhibition of FSH21-mediated bidirectional communication abrogated the positive effects of FSH21 on follicle growth, estradiol secretion and oocyte quality. Our data indicate that FSH21 promotes folliculogenesis and oocyte quality in vitro by increasing cell-to-cell communication early in folliculogenesis, and that the shift in in vivo abundance from FSH21 to FSH24 with reproductive aging may contribute to the age-dependent decline in oocyte quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aubrey Converse
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Zhenghui Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Jai C. Patel
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
| | - Sushil Shakyawar
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
| | - Chittibabu Guda
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
| | - George R. Bousfield
- Department of Biological Sciences, Wichita State University, Wichita, KS 67260, USA
| | - T. Rajendra Kumar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Francesca E. Duncan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
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4
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Zariñán T, Espinal-Enriquez J, De Anda-Jáuregui G, Lira-Albarrán S, Hernández-Montes G, Gutiérrez-Sagal R, Rebollar-Vega RG, Bousfield GR, Butnev VY, Hernández-Lemus E, Ulloa-Aguirre A. Differential effects of follicle-stimulating hormone glycoforms on the transcriptome profile of cultured rat granulosa cells as disclosed by RNA-seq. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.10.18.562995. [PMID: 37905087 PMCID: PMC10614937 DOI: 10.1101/2023.10.18.562995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2023]
Abstract
It has been documented that variations in glycosylation on glycoprotein hormones, confer distinctly different biological features to the corresponding glycoforms when multiple in vitro biochemical readings are analyzed. We here applied next generation RNA sequencing to explore changes in the transcriptome of rat granulosa cells exposed for 0, 6, and 12 h to 100 ng/ml of four highly purified follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) glycoforms, each exhibiting different glycosylation patterns: human pituitary FSH18/21 and equine FSH (eqFSH) (hypo-glycosylated), and human FSH24 and chinese-hamster ovary cell-derived human recombinant FSH (recFSH) (fully-glycosylated). Total RNA from triplicate incubations was prepared from FSH glycoform-exposed cultured granulosa cells obtained from DES-pretreated immature female rats, and RNA libraries were sequenced in a HighSeq 2500 sequencer (2 × 125 bp paired-end format, 10-15 × 106 reads/sample). The computational workflow focused on investigating differences among the four FSH glycoforms at three levels: gene expression, enriched biological processes, and perturbed pathways. Among the top 200 differentially expressed genes, only 4 (0.6%) were shared by all 4 glycoforms at 6 h, whereas 118 genes (40%) were shared at 12 h. Follicle-stimulating hormone glycocoforms stimulated different patterns of exclusive and associated up regulated biological processes in a glycoform and time-dependent fashion with more shared biological processes after 12 h of exposure and fewer treatment-specific ones, except for recFSH, which exhibited stronger responses with more specifically associated processes at this time. Similar results were found for down-regulated processes, with a greater number of processes at 6 h or 12 h, depending on the particular glycoform. In general, there were fewer downregulated than upregulated processes at both 6 h and 12 h, with FSH18/21 exhibiting the largest number of down-regulated associated processes at 6 h while eqFSH exhibited the greatest number at 12 h. Signaling cascades, largely linked to cAMP-PKA, MAPK, and PI3/AKT pathways were detected as differentially activated by the glycoforms, with each glycoform exhibiting its own molecular signature. These data extend previous observations demonstrating glycosylation-dependent differential regulation of gene expression and intracellular signaling pathways triggered by FSH in granulosa cells. The results also suggest the importance of individual FSH glycoform glycosylation for the conformation of the ligand-receptor complex and induced signalling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresa Zariñán
- Red de Apoyo a la Investigación, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM)-Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición SZ, 14080, Mexico City, Mexico
| | | | | | - Saúl Lira-Albarrán
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición SZ, Mexico City, 14080, Mexico
| | - Georgina Hernández-Montes
- Red de Apoyo a la Investigación, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM)-Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición SZ, 14080, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Rubén Gutiérrez-Sagal
- Red de Apoyo a la Investigación, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM)-Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición SZ, 14080, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Rosa G. Rebollar-Vega
- Red de Apoyo a la Investigación, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM)-Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición SZ, 14080, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - George R. Bousfield
- Department of Biological Sciences, Wichita State University, Wichita Kansas, 67260, USA
| | - Viktor Y. Butnev
- Department of Biological Sciences, Wichita State University, Wichita Kansas, 67260, USA
| | | | - Alfredo Ulloa-Aguirre
- Red de Apoyo a la Investigación, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM)-Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición SZ, 14080, Mexico City, Mexico
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5
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Sciorio R, Campos G, Tramontano L, Bulletti FM, Baldini GM, Vinciguerra M. Exploring the effect of cryopreservation in assisted reproductive technology and potential epigenetic risk. ZYGOTE 2023; 31:420-432. [PMID: 37409505 DOI: 10.1017/s0967199423000345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/07/2023]
Abstract
Since the birth of the first baby by in vitro fertilization in 1978, more than 9 million children have been born worldwide using medically assisted reproductive treatments. Fertilization naturally takes place in the maternal oviduct where unique physiological conditions enable the early healthy development of the embryo. During this dynamic period of early development major waves of epigenetic reprogramming, crucial for the normal fate of the embryo, take place. Increasingly, over the past 20 years concerns relating to the increased incidence of epigenetic anomalies in general, and genomic-imprinting disorders in particular, have been raised following assisted reproduction technology (ART) treatments. Epigenetic reprogramming is particularly susceptible to environmental conditions during the periconceptional period and non-physiological conditions such as ovarian stimulation, in vitro fertilization and embryo culture, as well as cryopreservation procedure, might have the potential to independently or collectively contribute to epigenetic dysregulation. Therefore, this narrative review offers a critical reappraisal of the evidence relating to the association between embryo cryopreservation and potential epigenetic regulation and the consequences on gene expression together with long-term consequences for offspring health and wellbeing. Current literature suggests that epigenetic and transcriptomic profiles are sensitive to the stress induced by vitrification, in terms of osmotic shock, temperature and pH changes, and toxicity of cryoprotectants, it is therefore, critical to have a more comprehensive understanding and recognition of potential unanticipated iatrogenic-induced perturbations of epigenetic modifications that may or may not be a consequence of vitrification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romualdo Sciorio
- Edinburgh Assisted Conception Programme, EFREC, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, UK
| | | | - Luca Tramontano
- Department of Women, Infants and Adolescents, Division of Obstetrics, Geneve University Hospitals, Boulevard de la Cluse 30, Geneve 14, Switzerland
| | - Francesco M Bulletti
- Department Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Vaud, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | | | - Marina Vinciguerra
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, Obstetrics and Gynaecology Section, University of Bari, Italy
- Clinic of Obstetrics and Gynecology 'Santa Caterina Novella', Galatina Hospital, Italy
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6
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McDonald R, Larsen M, Liu Z, Southekal S, Eudy J, Guda C, Kumar TR. RNA-seq analysis identifies age-dependent changes in expression of mRNAs - encoding N-glycosylation pathway enzymes in mouse gonadotropes. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2023; 574:111971. [PMID: 37301504 PMCID: PMC10528389 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2023.111971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Revised: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is a glycoprotein that is assembled as a heterodimer of α/β subunits in gonadotropes. Each subunit contains two N-glycan chains. Our previous in vivo genetic studies identified that at least one N-glycan chain must be present on the FSHβ subunit for efficient FSH dimer assembly and secretion. Moreover, macroheterogeneity observed uniquely on human FSHβ results in ratiometric changes in age-specific FSH glycoforms, particularly during menopausal transition. Despite the recognition of many prominent roles of sugars on FSH including dimer assembly and secretion, serum half-life, receptor binding and signal transduction, the N-glycosylation machinery in gonadotropes has never been defined. Here, we used a mouse model in which gonadotropes are GFP-labeled in vivo and achieved rapid purification of GFP+ gonadotropes from pituitaries of female mice at reproductively young, middle, and old ages. We identified by RNA-seq analysis 52 mRNAs encoding N-glycosylation pathway enzymes expressed in 3- and 8-10-month-old mouse gonadotropes. We hierarchically mapped and localized the enzymes to distinct subcellular organelles within the N-glycosylation biosynthetic pathway. Of the 52 mRNAs, we found 27 mRNAs are differentially expressed between the 3- and 8-10-month old mice. We subsequently selected 8 mRNAs which showed varying changes in expression for confirmation of abundance in vivo via qPCR analysis, using more expanded aging time points with distinct 8-month and 14-month age groups. Real time qPCR analysis indicated dynamic changes in expression of N-glycosylation pathway enzyme-encoding mRNAs across the life span. Notably, computational analysis predicted the promoters of genes encoding these 8 mRNAs contain multiple high probability binding sites for estrogen receptor-1 and progesterone receptor. Collectively, our studies define the N-glycome and identify age-specific dynamic changes in mRNAs encoding N-glycosylation pathway enzymes in mouse gonadotropes. Our studies suggest the age-related decline in ovarian steroids may regulate expression of N-glycosylation enzymes in mouse gonadotropes and explain the age-related N-glycosylation shift previously observed on human FSHβ subunit in pituitaries of women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosemary McDonald
- Garduate Program in Integrated Physiology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA; Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Mark Larsen
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Zhenghui Liu
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Siddesh Southekal
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA
| | - James Eudy
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA
| | - Chittibabu Guda
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA
| | - T Rajendra Kumar
- Garduate Program in Integrated Physiology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA; Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA.
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7
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Lispi M, Humaidan P, Bousfield GR, D'Hooghe T, Ulloa-Aguirre A. Follicle-Stimulating Hormone Biological Products: Does Potency Predict Clinical Efficacy? Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24109020. [PMID: 37240364 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24109020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), together with luteinizing hormone (LH) and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), plays a fundamental role in human reproduction. The discovery of FSH and other gonadotropins was a defining moment in our understanding of reproduction and led to the development of many treatments for infertility. In this regard, exogenous FSH has been used to treat infertility in women for decades. Today, several recombinant and highly purified urinary forms of FSH are used in medically assisted reproduction (MAR). However, differences in the macro- and micro-heterogeneity of FSH result in a variety of FSH glycoforms, with glycoform composition determining the bioactivity (or potency), pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) profiles, and clinical efficacy of the different forms of FSH. This review illustrates how the structural heterogeneity of FSH glycoforms affects the biological activity of human FSH products, and why potency does not predict effects in humans in terms of PK, PD, and clinical response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Lispi
- Merck Healthcare KGaA, 64293 Darmstadt, Germany
- Unit of Endocrinology, PhD School of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 42121 Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Peter Humaidan
- Fertility Clinic at Skive Regional Hospital, Faculty of Health, Aarhus University, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark
| | - George R Bousfield
- Department of Biological Sciences, Wichita State University, Wichita, KS 67260, USA
| | - Thomas D'Hooghe
- Merck Healthcare KGaA, 64293 Darmstadt, Germany
- Laboratory of Endometrium, Endometriosis & Reproductive Medicine, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University Medical School, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
| | - Alfredo Ulloa-Aguirre
- Red de Apoyo a la Investigación, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM)-Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición SZ, Mexico City 14080, Mexico
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8
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Morton AJ, Candelaria JI, McDonnell SP, Zgodzay DP, Denicol AC. Review: Roles of follicle-stimulating hormone in preantral folliculogenesis of domestic animals: what can we learn from model species and where do we go from here? Animal 2023; 17 Suppl 1:100743. [PMID: 37567683 DOI: 10.1016/j.animal.2023.100743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2022] [Revised: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The pituitary gonadotropin FSH is a glycoprotein critical for the development of ovarian follicles. Upon binding to its G protein-coupled membrane receptor located on the granulosa cells of ovarian follicles, FSH elicits a cascade of downstream intracellular responses to promote follicle growth, maturation and steroidogenic activity, leading to the acquisition of meiotic and developmental competence of the enclosed oocyte. The essential role of FSH for proper antral follicle development and fertility is indisputable; over the decades, increasing evidence has also pointed toward survival and growth-promoting effects elicited by FSH in earlier-stage preantral follicles, deeming these follicles FSH-responsive as opposed to the FSH-dependent antral follicles. Transgenic mouse models lacking GnRH1, Fshβ or Fshr clearly demonstrate this difference by showing that, morphologically, preantral follicles develop to the secondary stage without FSH signaling; however, exogenous expression or administration of FSH to hormone-deficient mice promotes preantral follicle development, with more pronounced effects seen in earlier stages (i.e., primary follicles). In hypophysectomized sheep, FSH administration also promotes the growth of primary-stage preantral follicles. However, in vivo studies in this area are more challenging to perform in domestic animals compared to rodents, and therefore most of the research to date has been done in vitro. Here, we present the existing evidence for a role of FSH in regulating the growth and survival of preantral follicles from data generated in rodents and domestic animals. We provide an overview of the process of folliculogenesis, FSH synthesis and cellular signaling, and the response to FSH by preantral follicles in vivo and in vitro, as well as interactions between FSH and other molecules to regulate preantral folliculogenesis. The widespread use of FSH in ovarian stimulation programs for assisted reproduction creates a real need for a better understanding of the effects of FSH beyond stimulation of antral follicle growth, and more research in this area could lead to the development of more effective fertility programs. In addition to its importance as an agricultural species, the cow provides a desirable model for humans regarding ovarian stimulation due to similar timing of folliculogenesis and follicle size, as well as similar ovarian architecture. The refinement of minimally invasive methods to allow the study of preantral folliculogenesis in live animals will be critical to understand the short- and long-term effects of FSH in ovarian folliculogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda J Morton
- Department of Animal Science, University of California Davis, 450 Bioletti Way, Davis, CA 95616, United States
| | - Juliana I Candelaria
- Department of Animal Science, University of California Davis, 450 Bioletti Way, Davis, CA 95616, United States
| | - Stephanie P McDonnell
- Department of Animal Science, University of California Davis, 450 Bioletti Way, Davis, CA 95616, United States
| | - Daniel P Zgodzay
- Department of Animal Science, University of California Davis, 450 Bioletti Way, Davis, CA 95616, United States
| | - Anna C Denicol
- Department of Animal Science, University of California Davis, 450 Bioletti Way, Davis, CA 95616, United States.
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9
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Nevelli F, Palmese A, Gleixner R, Peroglio F, D'Acunto CW, Dadone A, D'Hooghe T, Lispi M. Biological Assay to Determine Gonadotropin Potency: From In Vivo to In Vitro Sustainable Method. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24098040. [PMID: 37175746 PMCID: PMC10178553 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24098040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Revised: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Various preparations of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) are commercially available; however, they differ in glycoforms composition and purity owing to their respective sources. Additional chemical/physical changes can also be introduced during manufacturing and can impact their biological activity (biopotency), which is routinely assessed using an in vivo bioassay (Steelman-Pohley). This study aimed to determine whether an in vitro bioassay could assess biopotency by distinguishing between r-hFSH chemical/physical variants with similar ability to the in vivo bioassay. The specific activity (units of biological activity per mg of product) of variants of r-hFSH generated through enrichment (acidic/basic), stress (oxidative/acidic pH) and enzymatic treatment (desialylation and desialylation/degalactosylation) was compared using the in vivo and in vitro bioassays. The in vitro bioassay reliably detected potential chemical/physical modifications in r-hFSH variants that may impact biopotency. Overall, the methods demonstrated a comparable ability to detect changes in specific activities due to chemical/physical differences in r-hFSH variants. These data indicate that the in vitro bioassay is suitable to replace the in vivo bioassay.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Nevelli
- Analytical Development Biotech-Global Analytical Development-Global Development & Launch-Global Healthcare Operation, Istituto di Ricerche Biomediche "Antoine Marxer" RBM S.p.A., Colleretto Giacosa, Via Ribes, 1, 10010 Samone, Italy
| | - Angelo Palmese
- Analytical Development Biotech-Global Analytical Development-Global Development & Launch-Global Healthcare Operation, Merck Serono S.p.A., Piazza del Pigneto, 9, 00176 Rome, Italy
| | - Ralf Gleixner
- Ares Trading S.A., Rue de l'Ouriette 151, 1170 Aubonne, Switzerland
| | - Flavio Peroglio
- GHO Ivrea QC & Scientific Excellence-Global Analytical Development-Global Development & Launch-Global Healthcare Operation, Istituto di Ricerche Biomediche "Antoine Marxer" RBM S.p.A., Colleretto Giacosa, Via Ribes, 1, 10010 Samone, Italy
| | - Cosimo-Walter D'Acunto
- Analytical Development Biotech-Global Analytical Development-Global Development & Launch-Global Healthcare Operation, Istituto di Ricerche Biomediche "Antoine Marxer" RBM S.p.A., Colleretto Giacosa, Via Ribes, 1, 10010 Samone, Italy
- Analytical Development Biotech-Global Analytical Development-Global Development & Launch-Global Healthcare Operation, Merck Serono S.p.A., Piazza del Pigneto, 9, 00176 Rome, Italy
| | - Aurora Dadone
- Analytical Development Biotech-Global Analytical Development-Global Development & Launch-Global Healthcare Operation, Istituto di Ricerche Biomediche "Antoine Marxer" RBM S.p.A., Colleretto Giacosa, Via Ribes, 1, 10010 Samone, Italy
| | - Thomas D'Hooghe
- Global Medical Affairs Fertility, Merck Healthcare KGaA, Frankfurter Strasse 250, 64293 Darmstadt, Germany
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Laboratory of Endometrium, Endometriosis & Reproductive Medicine, KU Leuven, Oude Markt 13, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University Medical School, 333 Cedar St., New Haven, CT 06510, USA
| | - Monica Lispi
- Global Medical Affairs Fertility, Merck Healthcare KGaA, Frankfurter Strasse 250, 64293 Darmstadt, Germany
- PhD School of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Unit of Endocrinology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Viale A. Allegri 9, 42121 Reggio Emilia, Italy
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10
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Xu X, Hao T, Komba E, Yang B, Hao H, Du W, Zhu H, Zhang H, Zhao X. Improvement of Fertilization Capacity and Developmental Ability of Vitrified Bovine Oocytes by JUNO mRNA Microinjection and Cholesterol-Loaded Methyl-β-Cyclodextrin Treatment. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 24:ijms24010590. [PMID: 36614032 PMCID: PMC9820539 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24010590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Vitrification of oocytes is crucial for embryo biotechnologies, germplasm cryopreservation of endangered and excellent female animals, and the fertility of humans. However, vitrification significantly impairs the fertilization ability of oocytes, which significantly limits its widely used application. JUNO protein, a receptor for Izumo1, is involved in sperm-oocyte fusion and is an indispensable protein for mammalian fertilization, and its abundance is susceptible to vitrification. However, it is still unclear how vitrification reduces the fertilization capacity of bovine oocytes by affecting JUNO protein. This study was designed to investigate the effect of vitrification on the abundance and post-translational modifications of JUNO protein in bovine oocytes. Our results showed that vitrification did not alter the amino acid sequence of JUNO protein in bovine oocytes. Furthermore, the liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) analysis results showed that vitrification significantly reduced the number and changed the location of disulfide bonds, and increased the number of both phosphorylation and glycosylation sites of JUNO protein in bovine oocytes. Finally, the fertilization capacity and development ability of vitrified oocytes treated with 200 pg JUNO mRNA microinjection and cholesterol-loaded methyl-β-cyclodextrin (CLC/MβCD) were similar to those of fresh oocytes. In conclusion, our results showed that vitrification of bovine oocytes did not alter the protein sequence of JUNO, but induced post-translational modifications and changed protein abundance. Moreover, the fertilization and development ability of vitrified bovine oocytes were improved by the combination treatment of JUNO mRNA microinjection and CLC/MβCD.
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11
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Mao L, Wang L, Bennett S, Xu J, Zou J. Effects of follicle-stimulating hormone on fat metabolism and cognitive impairment in women during menopause. Front Physiol 2022; 13:1043237. [PMID: 36545281 PMCID: PMC9760686 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.1043237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Lipid metabolism disorder is a common pathological manifestation of menopausal women, and is also an important risk factor for many diseases at this stage of life. Epidemiological studies have shown that high levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) in menopausal women are closely associated with changes in body composition, central obesity, and cognitive decline. Exogenous FSH causes growth and proliferation of adipose, whereas blockage of the FSH signaling pathway leads to decline in adipose. Mechanistically, FSH, FSH receptor (FSHR), G protein coupling, gene mutation and other pathways are involved in adipogenesis and cognitive impairment. Here, we review the critical role and potential interactions of FSH in adipogenesis and cognitive impairment in menopausal women. Further understanding of the exact mechanisms of FSH aggravating obesity and cognitive impairment may provide a new perspective for promoting healthy aging in menopausal women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liwei Mao
- School of Kinesiology, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
| | - Lian Wang
- School of Kinesiology, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
| | - Samuel Bennett
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Jiake Xu
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Jun Zou
- School of Kinesiology, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China,*Correspondence: Jun Zou,
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12
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Li N, Desiderio DM, Zhan X. The use of mass spectrometry in a proteome-centered multiomics study of human pituitary adenomas. MASS SPECTROMETRY REVIEWS 2022; 41:964-1013. [PMID: 34109661 DOI: 10.1002/mas.21710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2020] [Revised: 05/21/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
A pituitary adenoma (PA) is a common intracranial neoplasm, and is a complex, chronic, and whole-body disease with multicausing factors, multiprocesses, and multiconsequences. It is very difficult to clarify molecular mechanism and treat PAs from the single-factor strategy model. The rapid development of multiomics and systems biology changed the paradigms from a traditional single-factor strategy to a multiparameter systematic strategy for effective management of PAs. A series of molecular alterations at the genome, transcriptome, proteome, peptidome, metabolome, and radiome levels are involved in pituitary tumorigenesis, and mutually associate into a complex molecular network system. Also, the center of multiomics is moving from structural genomics to phenomics, including proteomics and metabolomics in the medical sciences. Mass spectrometry (MS) has been extensively used in phenomics studies of human PAs to clarify molecular mechanisms, and to discover biomarkers and therapeutic targets/drugs. MS-based proteomics and proteoform studies play central roles in the multiomics strategy of PAs. This article reviews the status of multiomics, multiomics-based molecular pathway networks, molecular pathway network-based pattern biomarkers and therapeutic targets/drugs, and future perspectives for personalized, predeictive, and preventive (3P) medicine in PAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Li
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Cancer Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Medical Science and Technology Innovation Center, Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Dominic M Desiderio
- The Charles B. Stout Neuroscience Mass Spectrometry Laboratory, Department of Neurology, College of Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Xianquan Zhan
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Cancer Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Medical Science and Technology Innovation Center, Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, China
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13
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Manzi L, Sepe N, Migliaccio W, Lanzoni L, Iozzino L, D’Angelo F, Colarusso L, Montenegro S, Palmese A, D’Hooghe T, Ulloa-Aguirre A, Koloda Y, Lispi M. Comparative Assessment of the Structural Features of Originator Recombinant Human Follitropin Alfa Versus Recombinant Human Follitropin Alfa Biosimilar Preparations Approved in Non-European Regions. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23126762. [PMID: 35743204 PMCID: PMC9223809 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23126762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Revised: 06/01/2022] [Accepted: 06/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Although the full primary structures of the alfa and beta subunits of reference r-hFSH-alfa and its biosimilars are identical, cell context-dependent differences in the expressing cell lines and manufacturing process can lead to variations in glycosylation profiles. In the present study, we compared the structural features of reference r-hFSH-alfa with those of five biosimilar preparations approved in different global regions outside Europe (Primapur®, Jin Sai Heng®, Follitrope®, Folisurge®, and Corneumon®) with respect to glycosylation, macro- and microheterogeneity, and other post-translational modifications and higher order structure. The mean proportion of N-glycosylation-site occupancy was highest in reference r-hFSH-alfa, decreasing sequentially in Primapur, Jin Sai Heng, Corneumon, Follisurge and Follitrope, respectively. The level of antennarity showed slightly higher complexity in Corneumon, Primapur and Follitrope versus reference r-hFSH-alfa, whereas Jin Sai Heng and Folisurge were aligned with reference r-hFSH-alfa across all N-glycosylation sites. Sialylation level was higher in Corneumon and Follitrope, but small differences were detected in other biosimilar preparations compared with reference r-hFSH-alfa. Jin Sai Heng showed higher levels of N-glyconeuramic acid than the other preparations. Minor differences in oxidation levels were seen among the different products. Therefore, in summary, we identified var ious differences in N-glycosylation occupancy, antennarity, sialylation and oxidation between reference r-hFSH-alfa and the biosimilar preparations analyzed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucio Manzi
- Characterization & Innovative Analytics Unit—Analytical Development Biotech—Global Analytical Development—Global Development & Launch—Global Healthcare Operation, Merck Serono S.p.A., 00176 Rome, Italy, an affiliate of Merck KGaA; (L.M.); (N.S.); (W.M.); (L.L.); (L.I.); (F.D.); (L.C.)
| | - Nunzio Sepe
- Characterization & Innovative Analytics Unit—Analytical Development Biotech—Global Analytical Development—Global Development & Launch—Global Healthcare Operation, Merck Serono S.p.A., 00176 Rome, Italy, an affiliate of Merck KGaA; (L.M.); (N.S.); (W.M.); (L.L.); (L.I.); (F.D.); (L.C.)
| | - Walter Migliaccio
- Characterization & Innovative Analytics Unit—Analytical Development Biotech—Global Analytical Development—Global Development & Launch—Global Healthcare Operation, Merck Serono S.p.A., 00176 Rome, Italy, an affiliate of Merck KGaA; (L.M.); (N.S.); (W.M.); (L.L.); (L.I.); (F.D.); (L.C.)
| | - Ludovica Lanzoni
- Characterization & Innovative Analytics Unit—Analytical Development Biotech—Global Analytical Development—Global Development & Launch—Global Healthcare Operation, Merck Serono S.p.A., 00176 Rome, Italy, an affiliate of Merck KGaA; (L.M.); (N.S.); (W.M.); (L.L.); (L.I.); (F.D.); (L.C.)
| | - Luisa Iozzino
- Characterization & Innovative Analytics Unit—Analytical Development Biotech—Global Analytical Development—Global Development & Launch—Global Healthcare Operation, Merck Serono S.p.A., 00176 Rome, Italy, an affiliate of Merck KGaA; (L.M.); (N.S.); (W.M.); (L.L.); (L.I.); (F.D.); (L.C.)
| | - Fabrizia D’Angelo
- Characterization & Innovative Analytics Unit—Analytical Development Biotech—Global Analytical Development—Global Development & Launch—Global Healthcare Operation, Merck Serono S.p.A., 00176 Rome, Italy, an affiliate of Merck KGaA; (L.M.); (N.S.); (W.M.); (L.L.); (L.I.); (F.D.); (L.C.)
| | - Lucia Colarusso
- Characterization & Innovative Analytics Unit—Analytical Development Biotech—Global Analytical Development—Global Development & Launch—Global Healthcare Operation, Merck Serono S.p.A., 00176 Rome, Italy, an affiliate of Merck KGaA; (L.M.); (N.S.); (W.M.); (L.L.); (L.I.); (F.D.); (L.C.)
| | | | - Angelo Palmese
- Characterization & Innovative Analytics Unit—Analytical Development Biotech—Global Analytical Development—Global Development & Launch—Global Healthcare Operation, Merck Serono S.p.A., 00176 Rome, Italy, an affiliate of Merck KGaA; (L.M.); (N.S.); (W.M.); (L.L.); (L.I.); (F.D.); (L.C.)
- Correspondence: (A.P.); (T.D.)
| | - Thomas D’Hooghe
- Merck Healthcare KGaA, 64293 Darmstadt, Germany; (S.M.); (M.L.)
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Laboratory of Endometrium, Endometriosis & Reproductive Medicine, KU Leuven, Herestraat 49-Box 805, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University Medical School, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
- Correspondence: (A.P.); (T.D.)
| | - Alfredo Ulloa-Aguirre
- Research Support Network (RAI), Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México-Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición SZ, Tlalpan, Mexico City 14000, Mexico;
| | - Yulia Koloda
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Russian Medical Academy of Continuous Professional Education, Centre of Reproduction “Life Line”, 121471 Moscow, Russia;
| | - Monica Lispi
- Merck Healthcare KGaA, 64293 Darmstadt, Germany; (S.M.); (M.L.)
- PhD School of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Unit of Endocrinology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41121 Modena, Italy
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14
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Chen Y, Fan X, Ma K, Wang K, Tian C, Li M, Gong L. Bushen Culuan Decoction Ameliorates Premature Ovarian Insufficiency by Acting on the Nrf2/ARE Signaling Pathway to Alleviate Oxidative Stress. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:857932. [PMID: 35462905 PMCID: PMC9019758 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.857932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) can result in lower fertility and shorten the female reproductive span. Bushen-Culuan Decoction (BCD) is a traditional Chinese medication utilized for treating POI for many years. We previously observed that BCD protects against further deterioration of the ovarian reserve of POI patients, however, the underlying mechanism has not been well studied. Our investigation seeks to evaluate the effect of BCD on POI induced by Tripterygium wilfordii polyglycosidium (TWP) and the likely mechanistic pathways, which we hypothesize may involve the Nrf2/ARE pathway. The body weights, estrous cycle, serum hormone levels, histological follicular analysis and quantification, levels of oxidative stress biomarkers in the ovarian tissue of POI mice models were evaluated. Western blotting and RT-PCR enabled quantification of the components of the Nrf2/ARE pathway. Our results showed that BCD restored hormonal profiles and estrous cycles of POI mice similar to those observed in healthy controls. BCD reduced the numbers of atretic follicles while increasing the number of primordial follicles. BCD facilitated lower 8-OHdG and MDA levels while increasing levels of key antioxidant enzymes including GSH-Px, CAT, and SOD. Furthermore, TWP increased Bach 1, Nrf2, and Keap 1 expressions at the translational level, while decreased that of HO-1. BCD treatment also promoted nuclear translocation rates of Bach 1 and Nrf2, suppressed Keap 1 protein expression, as well as raised HO-1 protein expression. Taken together, BCD likely augments ovarian reserve by activating the Nrf2/ARE signaling pathway, which stimulated higher levels of antioxidants and suppressed oxidative stress. BCD may be an important therapeutic compound in POI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanxia Chen
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Science, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaodi Fan
- Institute of Basic Medical Science of Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Science, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Xiaodi Fan, ; Kun Ma,
| | - Kun Ma
- China Academy of Chinese Medical Science, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Xiaodi Fan, ; Kun Ma,
| | - Kaili Wang
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Science, Beijing, China
| | - Caidie Tian
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Science, Beijing, China
| | - Min Li
- China Academy of Chinese Medical Science, Beijing, China
| | - Linjuan Gong
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Science, Beijing, China
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15
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Butnev VY, May JV, Brown AR, Sharma T, Butnev VY, White WK, Harvey DJ, Bousfield GR. Human FSH Glycoform α-Subunit Asparagine 52 Glycans: Major Glycan Structural Consistency, Minor Glycan Variation in Abundance. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:767661. [PMID: 36329887 PMCID: PMC9623679 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.767661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), an α/β heterodimeric glycoprotein hormone, consists of functionally significant variants resulting from the presence or absence of either one of two FSHβ subunit N-glycans. The two most abundant variants are fully-glycosylated FSH24 (based on 24 kDa FSHβ band in Western blots) and hypo-glycosylated FSH21 (21 kDa band, lacks βAsn24 glycans). Due to its ability to bind more rapidly to the FSH receptor and occupy more FSH binding sites than FSH24, hypo-glycosylated FSH21 exhibits greater biological activity. Endoglycosidase F1-deglycosylated FSH bound to the complete extracellular domain of the FSH receptor crystallized as a trimeric complex. It was noted that a single biantennary glycan attached to FSHα Asn52 might preemptively fill the central pocket in this complex and prevent the other two FSH ligands from binding the remaining ligand-binding sites. As the most active FSH21 preparations possessed more rapidly migrating α-subunit bands in Western blots, we hypothesized that Asn52 glycans in these preparations were small enough to enable greater FSH21 receptor occupancy in the putative FSHR trimer model. Highly purified hFSH oligosaccharides derived from each FSH subunit, were characterized by electrospray ionization-ion mobility-collision-induced dissociation (ESI-IM-CID) mass spectrometry. FSHβ glycans typically possessed core-linked fucose and were roughly one third bi-antennary, one third tri-antennary and one third tetra-antennary. FSHα oligosaccharides largely lacked core fucose and were bi- or tri-antennary. Those αAsn52 glycans exhibiting tetra-antennary glycan m/z values were found to be tri-antennary, with lactosamine repeats accounting for the additional mass. Selective αAsn52 deglycosylation of representative pituitary hFSH glycoform Superdex 75 gel filtration fractions followed by ESI-IM-CID mass spectrometry revealed tri-antennary glycans predominated even in the lowest molecular weight FSH glycoforms. Accordingly, the differences in binding capacity of the same receptor preparation to different FSH glycoforms are likely the organization of the FSH receptor in cell membranes, rather than the αAsn52 oligosaccharide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viktor Y Butnev
- Department of Biological Sciences, Wichita State University, Wichita, KS, United States
| | - Jeffrey V May
- Department of Biological Sciences, Wichita State University, Wichita, KS, United States
| | - Alan R Brown
- Department of Biological Sciences, Wichita State University, Wichita, KS, United States
| | - Tarak Sharma
- Department of Biological Sciences, Wichita State University, Wichita, KS, United States
| | - Vladimir Y Butnev
- Department of Biological Sciences, Wichita State University, Wichita, KS, United States
| | - William K White
- Department of Biological Sciences, Wichita State University, Wichita, KS, United States
| | - David J Harvey
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - George R Bousfield
- Department of Biological Sciences, Wichita State University, Wichita, KS, United States
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16
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Hua G, George JW, Clark KL, Jonas KC, Johnson GP, Southekal S, Guda C, Hou X, Blum HR, Eudy J, Butnev VY, Brown AR, Katta S, May JV, Bousfield GR, Davis JS. Hypo-glycosylated hFSH drives ovarian follicular development more efficiently than fully-glycosylated hFSH: enhanced transcription and PI3K and MAPK signaling. Hum Reprod 2021; 36:1891-1906. [PMID: 34059912 PMCID: PMC8213452 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deab135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2020] [Revised: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Does hypo-glycosylated human recombinant FSH (hFSH18/21) have greater in vivo bioactivity that drives follicle development in vivo compared to fully-glycosylated human recombinant FSH (hFSH24)? SUMMARY ANSWER Compared with fully-glycosylated hFSH, hypo-glycosylated hFSH has greater bioactivity, enabling greater follicular health and growth in vivo, with enhanced transcriptional activity, greater activation of receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) and elevated phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (AKT) and Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) signaling. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Glycosylation of FSH is necessary for FSH to effectively activate the FSH receptor (FSHR) and promote preantral follicular growth and formation of antral follicles. In vitro studies demonstrate that compared to fully-glycosylated recombinant human FSH, hypo-glycosylated FSH has greater activity in receptor binding studies, and more effectively stimulates the PKA pathway and steroidogenesis in human granulosa cells. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This is a cross-sectional study evaluating the actions of purified recombinant human FSH glycoforms on parameters of follicular development, gene expression and cell signaling in immature postnatal day (PND) 17 female CD-1 mice. To stimulate follicle development in vivo, PND 17 female CD-1 mice (n = 8-10/group) were treated with PBS (150 µl), hFSH18/21 (1 µg/150 µl PBS) or hFSH24 (1 µg/150 µl PBS) by intraperitoneal injection (i.p.) twice daily (8:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.) for 2 days. Follicle numbers, serum anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) and estradiol levels, and follicle health were quantified. PND 17 female CD-1 mice were also treated acutely (2 h) in vivo with PBS, hFSH18/21 (1 µg) or hFSH24 (1 µg) (n = 3-4/group). One ovary from each mouse was processed for RNA sequencing analysis and the other ovary processed for signal transduction analysis. An in vitro ovary culture system was used to confirm the relative signaling pathways. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS The purity of different recombinant hFSH glycoforms was analyzed using an automated western blot system. Follicle numbers were determined by counting serial sections of the mouse ovary. Real-time quantitative RT-PCR, western blot and immunofluorescence staining were used to determine growth and apoptosis markers related with follicle health. RNA sequencing and bioinformatics were used to identify pathways and processes associated with gene expression profiles induced by acute FSH glycoform treatment. Analysis of RTKs was used to determine potential FSH downstream signaling pathways in vivo. Western blot and in vitro ovarian culture system were used to validate the relative signaling pathways. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Our present study shows that both hypo- and fully-glycosylated recombinant human FSH can drive follicular growth in vivo. However, hFSH18/21 promoted development of significantly more large antral follicles compared to hFSH24 (P < 0.01). In addition, compared with hFSH24, hFSH18/21 also promoted greater indices of follicular health, as defined by lower BAX/BCL2 ratios and reduced cleaved Caspase 3. Following acute in vivo treatment with FSH glycoforms RNA-sequencing data revealed that both FSH glycoforms rapidly induced ovarian transcription in vivo, but hypo-glycosylated FSH more robustly stimulated Gαs and cAMP-mediated signaling and members of the AP-1 transcription factor complex. Moreover, hFSH18/21 treatment induced significantly greater activation of RTKs, PI3K/AKT and MAPK/ERK signaling compared to hFSH24. FSH-induced indices of follicle growth in vitro were blocked by inhibition of PI3K and MAPK. LARGE SCALE DATA RNA sequencing of mouse ovaries. Data will be shared upon reasonable request to the corresponding author. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The observations that hFSH glycoforms have different bioactivities in the present study employing a mouse model of follicle development should be verified in nonhuman primates. The gene expression studies reflect transcriptomes of whole ovaries. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Commercially prepared recombinant human FSH used for ovarian stimulation in human ART is fully-glycosylated FSH. Our findings that hypo-glycosylated hFSH has greater bioactivity enabling greater follicular health and growth without exaggerated estradiol production in vivo, demonstrate the potential for its development for application in human ART. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was supported by NIH 1P01 AG029531, NIH 1R01 HD 092263, VA I01 BX004272, and the Olson Center for Women's Health. JSD is the recipient of a VA Senior Research Career Scientist Award (1IK6 BX005797). This work was also partially supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China (No. 31872352). The authors declared there are no conflicts of interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guohua Hua
- Key Lab of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science & Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Olson Center for Women’s Health, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Jitu W George
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Olson Center for Women’s Health, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
- Veterans Affairs Nebraska Western Iowa Health Care System, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Kendra L Clark
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Olson Center for Women’s Health, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
- Veterans Affairs Nebraska Western Iowa Health Care System, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Kim C Jonas
- Department of Women and Children’s Health, School of Life Course Sciences, King’s College London, Guy’s Campus, London, UK
| | - Gillian P Johnson
- Department of Women and Children’s Health, School of Life Course Sciences, King’s College London, Guy’s Campus, London, UK
| | - Siddesh Southekal
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Chittibabu Guda
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Xiaoying Hou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Olson Center for Women’s Health, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Haley R Blum
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Olson Center for Women’s Health, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - James Eudy
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Viktor Y Butnev
- Department of Biological Sciences, Wichita State University, Wichita, KS, USA
| | - Alan R Brown
- Department of Biological Sciences, Wichita State University, Wichita, KS, USA
| | - Sahithi Katta
- Department of Biological Sciences, Wichita State University, Wichita, KS, USA
| | - Jeffrey V May
- Department of Biological Sciences, Wichita State University, Wichita, KS, USA
| | - George R Bousfield
- Department of Biological Sciences, Wichita State University, Wichita, KS, USA
| | - John S Davis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Olson Center for Women’s Health, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
- Veterans Affairs Nebraska Western Iowa Health Care System, Omaha, NE, USA
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17
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Bahadori Z, Shabani AA, Minuchehr Z. Rational design of hyper-glycosylated human follicle-stimulating hormone analogs (a bioinformatics approach). J Biomol Struct Dyn 2021; 40:9114-9125. [PMID: 33998969 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2021.1924268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
N-glycosylation is a complex mechanism in which the carbohydrate molecules bind to the Asn amino acid in the N-glycan consensus sequence (AsnXxxThr/Ser sequon, where Xxx is any residue, excluding Pro). Introduction of additional N-linked glycosylation site into proposed location in the protein causes to its hyper-glycosylation and can enhance the protein characteristics to provide promising prospects in treatment. Glycoengineering is a favorably used strategy to design and generate hyper-glycosylated variants. In this research, human follicle-stimulating hormone (HuFSH) was considered to identify appropriate positions for adding novel N-glycan sites. A rational computational strategy was applied to predict functional/structural variations induced through changes in polypeptide chain. We analyzed the amino acid chain of FSH to find out the proper locations to introduce asparagine and/or threonine for creating novel N-glycan positions. This analysis resulted in the recognition of 40 possible N-glycosylation positions, and then the eight adequate ones were chosen for additional investigation. The model validation techniques were used to examine 3-dimensional structures of the chosen mutant proteins. Finally, 2 mutants with a further glycan site were recommended as eligible FSH hyper-glycosylated analogs, which may be regarded for subsequent experimental studies. Our in silico approach may decrease tedious and time-wasting laboratory researches of the mutants.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sharma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zohreh Bahadori
- Department of Biotechnology and Biotechnology Research Center, School of Medicine, Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan, Iran.,Students Research Committee, Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan, Iran
| | - Ali Akbar Shabani
- Department of Biotechnology and Biotechnology Research Center, School of Medicine, Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan, Iran
| | - Zarrin Minuchehr
- Department of Systems Biotechnology, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (NIGEB), Tehran, Iran
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18
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Shakyawar SK, Pandey S, Harvey DJ, Bousfield G, Guda C. FGDB: Database of follicle stimulating hormone glycans. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2021; 19:1635-1640. [PMID: 33897975 PMCID: PMC8050109 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2021.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2020] [Revised: 03/04/2021] [Accepted: 03/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Glycomics, the study of the entire complement of sugars of an organism has received significant attention in the recent past due to the advances made in high throughput mass spectrometry technologies. These analytical advancements have facilitated the characterization of glycans associated with the follicle-stimulating hormones (FSH), which play a central role in the human reproductive system both in males and females utilizing regulating gonadal (testicular and ovarian) functions. The irregularities in FSH activity are also directly linked with osteoporosis. The glycoanalytical studies have been tremendously helpful in understanding the biological roles of FSH. Subsequently, the increasing number of characterized FSH glycan structures and related glycoform data has thrown a challenge to the glycoinformatics community in terms of data organization, storage and access. Also, a user-friendly platform is needed for providing easy access to the database and performing integrated analysis using a high volume of experimental data to accelerate FSH-focused research. FSH Glycans DataBase (FGDB) serves as a comprehensive and unique repository of structures, features, and related information of glycans associated with FSH. Apart from providing multiple search options, the database also facilitates an integrated user-friendly interface to perform the glycan abundance and comparative analyses using experimental data. The automated integrated pipelines present the possible structures of glycans and variants of FSH based on the input data, and allow the user to perform various analyses. The potential application of FGDB will significantly help both glycoinformaticians as well as wet-lab researchers to stimulate the research in this area. FGDB web access: https://fgdb.unmc.edu/.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sushil K Shakyawar
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, United States
| | - Sanjit Pandey
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, United States
| | - David J Harvey
- Target Discovery Institute, Nuffield Department of Medicine, Oxford University, Oxford OX3 7FZ, United Kingdom
| | - George Bousfield
- Fairmount College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Wichita State University, KS 67260, United States
| | - Chittibabu Guda
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, United States
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He M, Zhang T, Yang Y, Wang C. Mechanisms of Oocyte Maturation and Related Epigenetic Regulation. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:654028. [PMID: 33842483 PMCID: PMC8025927 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.654028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Meiosis is the basis of sexual reproduction. In female mammals, meiosis of oocytes starts before birth and sustains at the dictyate stage of meiotic prophase I before gonadotropins-induced ovulation happens. Once meiosis gets started, the oocytes undergo the leptotene, zygotene, and pachytene stages, and then arrest at the dictyate stage. During each estrus cycle in mammals, or menstrual cycle in humans, a small portion of oocytes within preovulatory follicles may resume meiosis. It is crucial for females to supply high quality mature oocytes for sustaining fertility, which is generally achieved by fine-tuning oocyte meiotic arrest and resumption progression. Anything that disturbs the process may result in failure of oogenesis and seriously affect both the fertility and the health of females. Therefore, uncovering the regulatory network of oocyte meiosis progression illuminates not only how the foundations of mammalian reproduction are laid, but how mis-regulation of these steps result in infertility. In order to provide an overview of the recently uncovered cellular and molecular mechanism during oocyte maturation, especially epigenetic modification, the progress of the regulatory network of oocyte meiosis progression including meiosis arrest and meiosis resumption induced by gonadotropins is summarized. Then, advances in the epigenetic aspects, such as histone acetylation, phosphorylation, methylation, glycosylation, ubiquitination, and SUMOylation related to the quality of oocyte maturation are reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meina He
- Department of Biology, School of Basic Medical Science, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education for Conservation and Utilization of Special Biological Resources in the Western China, College of Life Science, Ningxia University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Tuo Zhang
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education for Conservation and Utilization of Special Biological Resources in the Western China, College of Life Science, Ningxia University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Yi Yang
- Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education for Conservation and Utilization of Special Biological Resources in the Western China, College of Life Science, Ningxia University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Chao Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education for Conservation and Utilization of Special Biological Resources in the Western China, College of Life Science, Ningxia University, Yinchuan, China
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20
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Makhlynets OV, Caputo GA. Characteristics and therapeutic applications of antimicrobial peptides. BIOPHYSICS REVIEWS 2021; 2:011301. [PMID: 38505398 PMCID: PMC10903410 DOI: 10.1063/5.0035731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2020] [Accepted: 12/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The demand for novel antimicrobial compounds is rapidly growing due to the phenomenon of antibiotic resistance in bacteria. In response, numerous alternative approaches are being taken including use of polymers, metals, combinatorial approaches, and antimicrobial peptides (AMPs). AMPs are a naturally occurring part of the immune system of all higher organisms and display remarkable broad-spectrum activity and high selectivity for bacterial cells over host cells. However, despite good activity and safety profiles, AMPs have struggled to find success in the clinic. In this review, we outline the fundamental properties of AMPs that make them effective antimicrobials and extend this into three main approaches being used to help AMPs become viable clinical options. These three approaches are the incorporation of non-natural amino acids into the AMP sequence to impart better pharmacological properties, the incorporation of AMPs in hydrogels, and the chemical modification of surfaces with AMPs for device applications. These approaches are being developed to enhance the biocompatibility, stability, and/or bioavailability of AMPs as clinical options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga V. Makhlynets
- Department of Chemistry, Syracuse University, 111 College Place, Syracuse, New York 13244, USA
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21
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Dias JA, Ulloa-Aguirre A. New Human Follitropin Preparations: How Glycan Structural Differences May Affect Biochemical and Biological Function and Clinical Effect. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:636038. [PMID: 33815292 PMCID: PMC8018285 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.636038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
It is well accepted that pituitary follitropin is secreted into the circulation as a mixture of variants, which differ not in primary structure but rather at the level of glycosylation. These glycosidic forms vary in the number of glycosylation sites filled, complexity of glycosidic chains, and sialylation and sulfation. It is generally agreed that high sialylation, 2,3 sialic acid capping of terminal N-acetyl galactosamine or galactose leads to longer circulating half-life, by blocking binding of asialoglycoprotein receptor (ASGPR) in the liver. In contrast, 2,6 sialic acid found in humans does not prevent recognition of galactose and N-acetyl galactosamine by ASGPR. Few studies on clinical outcomes comparing differences in sialylation of follitropin found in commercially available preparations are available. Thus, there is a clear need for a consortium of open data to address this unmet need. Recently, FSH glycosylation, primarily on the β-subunit, which varies as women age, has emerged as a key modifier of follitropin action, with profound biological effects in vivo in animal models. To date, limited information of recombinant follitropin hormone preparations is available. Thus, most of the studies with FSH that is well characterized biochemically have been done in vitro, with engineered non gonadal host cells bearing recombinant receptors or in animal models. Since limited studies in human granulosa cells are available, a question is whether structural differences in glycosylation in commercially available follitropin affects biological function and clinical effect in humans. The presence of fucose, for example, has not been studied greatly even though, in the case of antibody therapy it has been shown to have a large effect on antibody targeting. This review on glycosidic variability of follitropin from the biochemical/structural point of view reflects on this question and presents an assessment in the context of available published data. If clinical differences are to be expected or not, the readers will have a better understanding of the evidence for and limitations of such expectations.
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Affiliation(s)
- James A. Dias
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, State University of New York at Albany, Albany, NY, United States
- *Correspondence: James A. Dias,
| | - Alfredo Ulloa-Aguirre
- Red de Apoyo a la Investigación, National University of Mexico-Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición SZ., Mexico City, Mexico
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22
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Agwuegbo UT, Colley E, Albert AP, Butnev VY, Bousfield GR, Jonas KC. Differential FSH Glycosylation Modulates FSHR Oligomerization and Subsequent cAMP Signaling. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:765727. [PMID: 34925235 PMCID: PMC8678890 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.765727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2021] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and its target G protein-coupled receptor (FSHR) are essential for reproduction. Recent studies have established that the hypo-glycosylated pituitary FSH glycoform (FSH21/18), is more bioactive in vitro and in vivo than the fully-glycosylated variant (FSH24). FSH21/18 predominates in women of reproductive prime and FSH24 in peri-post-menopausal women, suggesting distinct functional roles of these FSH glycoforms. The aim of this study was to determine if differential FSH glycosylation modulated FSHR oligomerization and resulting impact on cAMP signaling. Using a modified super-resolution imaging technique (PD-PALM) to assess FSHR complexes in HEK293 cells expressing FSHR, we observed time and concentration-dependent modulation of FSHR oligomerization by FSH glycoforms. High eFSH and FSH21/18 concentrations rapidly dissociated FSHR oligomers into monomers, whereas FSH24 displayed slower kinetics. The FSHR β-arrestin biased agonist, truncated eLHβ (Δ121-149) combined with asparagine56-deglycosylated eLHα (dg-eLHt), increased FSHR homomerization. In contrast, low FSH21/18 and FSH24 concentrations promoted FSHR association into oligomers. Dissociation of FSHR oligomers correlated with time points where higher cAMP production was observed. Taken together, these data suggest that FSH glycosylation may modulate the kinetics and amplitude of cAMP production, in part, by forming distinct FSHR complexes, highlighting potential avenues for novel therapeutic targeting of the FSHR to improve IVF outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Uchechukwu T. Agwuegbo
- School of Life Course and Population Sciences, Department of Women and Children’s Health, Guy’s Campus, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Emily Colley
- Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Anthony P. Albert
- Vascular Biology Research Centre, Molecular & Clinical Science Research Centre, St George’s University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Viktor Y. Butnev
- Department of Biological Sciences, Wichita State University, Wichita, KS, United States
| | - George R. Bousfield
- Department of Biological Sciences, Wichita State University, Wichita, KS, United States
| | - Kim C. Jonas
- School of Life Course and Population Sciences, Department of Women and Children’s Health, Guy’s Campus, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
- *Correspondence: Kim C. Jonas,
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23
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Eriksson K, Wide L. Gonadotropin Glycoforms Circulating in Women Using Progestins of the Levonorgestrel Family for Contraception. J Endocr Soc 2020; 4:bvaa128. [PMID: 33123654 PMCID: PMC7575131 DOI: 10.1210/jendso/bvaa128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2020] [Accepted: 08/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Context The progestins of the levonorgestrel family are 13-ethylgonane progestins, commonly used for contraception in women. One contraceptive effect of these progestins is inhibition of ovulation, which may be a result of changes in gonadotropin glycosylation patterns. Gonadotropin glycoforms differ in number of glycans and bioactivity: more bioactive low-N-glycosylated glycoforms, diglycosylated luteinizing hormone (LHdi) and triglycosylated follicle-stimulating hormone (FSHtri), and less bioactive fully N-glycosylated glycoforms, LHtri and FSHtetra. Objective Characterize the glycosylation patterns on the circulating gonadotropin glycoforms in women using 13-ethylgonane progestins for contraception. Design, Subjects, Main Outcome Measures Serum samples, collected from 92 healthy women using 13-ethylgonane progestins for contraception, were included. Forty women used progestin-only continuously and 52 used progestins combined with ethinylestradiol (EE) for 3 weeks followed by a hormone-free week. Concentration, sulfonation, and sialylation of each glycoform were determined and compared with follicular phase values of normal menstrual cycles. Results The progestin-only group had significantly increased serum levels, decreased sulfonation, and increased sialylation of LHdi. The LHdi/FSHtri ratio was increased. The progestin+EE group had significantly decreased gonadotropin glycoform concentrations and decreased sialylation of FSHtri. The progestin+EE effect on sialylation of FSHtri occurred later during the treatment cycle in contrast to the effect on FSHtri concentration. Conclusions The 2 different progestin treatments induced different effects on the glycan synthesis and concentrations of more bioactive low-glycosylated gonadotropins. Progestin-only treatment increased sialylation and decreased sulfonation of LHdi molecules, contributing to sustained higher levels of bioactive LHdi molecules. Progestin+EE treatment decreased sialylation of FSHtri, contributing to a shorter half-life and decreased levels of bioactive FSHtri.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karin Eriksson
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, University Hospital, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Leif Wide
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, University Hospital, Uppsala, Sweden
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24
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Li H, You L, Tian Y, Guo J, Fang X, Zhou C, Shi L, Su Y. DPAGT1-Mediated Protein N-Glycosylation Is Indispensable for Oocyte and Follicle Development in Mice. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2020; 7:2000531. [PMID: 32714760 PMCID: PMC7375233 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202000531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2020] [Revised: 04/29/2020] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Post-translational modification of proteins by N-linked glycosylation is crucial for many life processes. However, the exact contribution of N-glycosylation to mammalian female reproduction remains largely undefined. Here, DPAGT1, the enzyme that catalyzes the first step of protein N-glycosylation, is identified to be indispensable for oocyte development in mice. Dpagt1 missense mutation (c. 497A>G; p. Asp166Gly) causes female subfertility without grossly affecting other functions. Mutant females ovulate fewer eggs owing to defective development of growing follicles. Mutant oocytes have a thin and fragile zona pellucida (ZP) due to the reduction in glycosylation of ZP proteins, and display poor developmental competence after fertilization in vitro. Moreover, completion of the first meiosis is accelerated in mutant oocytes, which is coincident with the elevation of aneuploidy. Mechanistically, transcriptomic analysis reveals the downregulation of a number of transcripts essential for oocyte meiotic progression and preimplantation development (e.g., Pttgt1, Esco2, Orc6, and Npm2) in mutant oocytes, which could account for the defects observed. Furthermore, conditional knockout of Dpagt1 in oocytes recapitulates the phenotypes observed in Dpagt1 mutant females, and causes complete infertility. Taken together, these data indicate that protein N-glycosylation in oocytes is essential for female fertility in mammals by specific control of oocyte development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Li
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive MedicineNanjing Medical UniversityNanjing211166P. R. China
| | - Liji You
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive MedicineNanjing Medical UniversityNanjing211166P. R. China
| | - Yufeng Tian
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive MedicineNanjing Medical UniversityNanjing211166P. R. China
| | - Jing Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive MedicineNanjing Medical UniversityNanjing211166P. R. China
| | - Xianbao Fang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive MedicineNanjing Medical UniversityNanjing211166P. R. China
| | - Chenmin Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive MedicineNanjing Medical UniversityNanjing211166P. R. China
| | - Lanying Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive MedicineNanjing Medical UniversityNanjing211166P. R. China
| | - You‐Qiang Su
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive MedicineNanjing Medical UniversityNanjing211166P. R. China
- Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical UniversityNanjing Maternity and Child Health HospitalNanjing Medical UniversityNanjing211166P. R. China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Genetics and DevelopmentFudan UniversityShanghai200433P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Model Animal ResearchNanjing Medical UniversityNanjing211166P. R. China
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25
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Simoni M, Brigante G, Rochira V, Santi D, Casarini L. Prospects for FSH Treatment of Male Infertility. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2020; 105:5831300. [PMID: 32374828 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgaa243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2020] [Accepted: 04/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Despite the new opportunities provided by assisted reproductive technology (ART), male infertility treatment is far from being optimized. One possibility, based on pathophysiological evidence, is to stimulate spermatogenesis with gonadotropins. EVIDENCE ACQUISITION We conducted a comprehensive systematic PubMed literature review, up to January 2020, of studies evaluating the genetic basis of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) action, the role of FSH in spermatogenesis, and the effects of its administration in male infertility. Manuscripts evaluating the role of genetic polymorphisms and FSH administration in women undergoing ART were considered whenever relevant. EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS FSH treatment has been successfully used in hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, but with questionable results in idiopathic male infertility. A limitation of this approach is that treatment plans for male infertility have been borrowed from hypogonadism, without daring to overstimulate, as is done in women undergoing ART. FSH effectiveness depends not only on its serum levels, but also on individual genetic variants able to determine hormonal levels, activity, and receptor response. Single-nucleotide polymorphisms in the follicle-stimulating hormone subunit beta (FSHB) and follicle-stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR) genes have been described, with some of them affecting testicular volume and sperm output. The FSHR p.N680S and the FSHB -211G>T variants could be genetic markers to predict FSH response. CONCLUSIONS FSH may be helpful to increase sperm production in infertile men, even if the evidence to recommend the use of FSH in this setting is weak. Placebo-controlled clinical trials, considering the FSHB-FSHR haplotype, are needed to define the most effective dosage, the best treatment length, and the criteria to select candidate responder patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuela Simoni
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, Modena, Italy
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC), Institut National de Recherche pour l'Agriculture, l'Alimentation et l'Environnement (INRAE), Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Institut Français du Cheval et de l'Equitation (IFCE), Université de Tours, Nouzilly, France
| | - Giulia Brigante
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Rochira
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Daniele Santi
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Livio Casarini
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, Modena, Italy
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De Rocco Ponce M, Foresta C, Rago R, Dal Lago A, Balercia G, Calogero AE, La Vignera S, Cosci I, Di Nisio A, Garolla A. Use of Biosimilar Follicle-Stimulating Hormone in Asthenozoospermic Infertile Patients: A Multicentric Study. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9051478. [PMID: 32423110 PMCID: PMC7291014 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9051478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2020] [Revised: 05/02/2020] [Accepted: 05/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
There is increasing data in favour of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) therapy in patients with oligo-asthenozoospermia and normal-range gonadotropins in order to increase sperm count and above all sperm motility. Some studies showed an improvement in DNA fragmentation and spontaneous pregnancy. Recently, biosimilar FSH has been marketed with the same indications. We performed a retrospective multicentric case-control study involving 147 asthenozoospermic patients between 18 and 45 years of age. A total of 97 patients were treated with biosimilar FSH 150 UI three times a week for 3 months, while 50 control subjects received no treatment. Patients were evaluated at baseline and after 3 months with semen analysis including DNA fragmentation, testicular colour Doppler ultrasound, and blood tests. Spontaneous pregnancies were recorded during a further follow-up period of 6 months. Treated patients showed after treatment a statistically significant increase in sperm concentration, total sperm count, and total motile sperm, as well as improved progressive motility and non-progressive motility. DNA fragmentation showed a significant reduction. Conversely, in the control group, no significant change was found. Pregnancy rate was significantly higher in treated patients. These data suggest comparable efficacy of biosimilar FSH in the treatment of male infertility; however, larger studies are needed to confirm our results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maurizio De Rocco Ponce
- UOC Andrologia e Medicina della Riproduzione, Azienda Ospedaliera Università di Padova, Dipartimento di Medicina, 35126 Padova, Italy
| | - Carlo Foresta
- UOC Andrologia e Medicina della Riproduzione, Azienda Ospedaliera Università di Padova, Dipartimento di Medicina, 35126 Padova, Italy
| | - Rocco Rago
- Unità di Fisiopatologia della Riproduzione e Andrologia, Ospedale Sandro Pertini, 00157 Roma, Italy
| | - Alessandro Dal Lago
- Unità di Fisiopatologia della Riproduzione e Andrologia, Ospedale Sandro Pertini, 00157 Roma, Italy
| | - Giancarlo Balercia
- Endocrinologia, Dipartimento di Scienze Cliniche e Molecolari, Università Politecnica delle Marche, 60121 Ancona, Italy
| | - Aldo Eugenio Calogero
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Sperimentale, Università di Catania, 95124 Catania, Italy
| | - Sandro La Vignera
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Sperimentale, Università di Catania, 95124 Catania, Italy
| | - Ilaria Cosci
- UOC Andrologia e Medicina della Riproduzione, Azienda Ospedaliera Università di Padova, Dipartimento di Medicina, 35126 Padova, Italy
| | - Andrea Di Nisio
- UOC Andrologia e Medicina della Riproduzione, Azienda Ospedaliera Università di Padova, Dipartimento di Medicina, 35126 Padova, Italy
| | - Andrea Garolla
- UOC Andrologia e Medicina della Riproduzione, Azienda Ospedaliera Università di Padova, Dipartimento di Medicina, 35126 Padova, Italy
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27
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Zariñán T, Butnev VY, Gutiérrez-Sagal R, Maravillas-Montero JL, Martínez-Luis I, Mejía-Domínguez NR, Juárez-Vega G, Bousfield GR, Ulloa-Aguirre A. In Vitro Impact of FSH Glycosylation Variants on FSH Receptor-stimulated Signal Transduction and Functional Selectivity. J Endocr Soc 2020; 4:bvaa019. [PMID: 32342021 PMCID: PMC7175721 DOI: 10.1210/jendso/bvaa019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2019] [Accepted: 02/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
FSH exists as different glycoforms that differ in glycosylation of the hormone-specific β-subunit. Tetra-glycosylated FSH (FSH24) and hypo-glycosylated FSH (FSH18/21) are the most abundant glycoforms found in humans. Employing distinct readouts in HEK293 cells expressing the FSH receptor, we compared signaling triggered by human pituitary FSH preparations (FSH18/21 and FSH24) as well as by equine FSH (eFSH), and human recombinant FSH (recFSH), each exhibiting distinct glycosylation patterns. The potency in eliciting cAMP production was greater for eFSH than for FSH18/21, FSH24, and recFSH, whereas in the ERK1/2 activation readout, potency was highest for FSH18/21 followed by eFSH, recFSH, and FSH24. In β-arrestin1/2 CRISPR/Cas9 HEK293-KO cells, FSH18/21 exhibited a preference toward β-arrestin-mediated ERK1/2 activation as revealed by a drastic decrease in pERK during the first 15-minute exposure to this glycoform. Exposure of β-arrestin1/2 KO cells to H89 additionally decreased pERK1/2, albeit to a significantly lower extent in response to FSH18/21. Concurrent silencing of β-arrestin and PKA signaling, incompletely suppressed pERK response to FSH glycoforms, suggesting that pathways other than those dependent on Gs-protein and β-arrestins also contribute to FSH-stimulated pERK1/2. All FSH glycoforms stimulated intracellular Ca2+ (iCa2+) accumulation through both influx from Ca2+ channels and release from intracellular stores; however, iCa2+ in response to FSH18/21 depended more on the latter, suggesting differences in mechanisms through which glycoforms promote iCa2+ accumulation. These data indicate that FSH glycosylation plays an important role in defining not only the intensity but also the functional selectivity for the mechanisms leading to activation of distinct signaling cascades.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresa Zariñán
- Red de Apoyo a la Investigación (RAI), Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM)-Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Viktor Y Butnev
- Department of Biological Sciences, Wichita State University, Wichita, Kansas, USA
| | - Rubén Gutiérrez-Sagal
- Red de Apoyo a la Investigación (RAI), Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM)-Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - José Luis Maravillas-Montero
- Red de Apoyo a la Investigación (RAI), Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM)-Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Iván Martínez-Luis
- Red de Apoyo a la Investigación (RAI), Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM)-Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Nancy R Mejía-Domínguez
- Red de Apoyo a la Investigación (RAI), Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM)-Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Guillermo Juárez-Vega
- Red de Apoyo a la Investigación (RAI), Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM)-Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - George R Bousfield
- Department of Biological Sciences, Wichita State University, Wichita, Kansas, USA
| | - Alfredo Ulloa-Aguirre
- Red de Apoyo a la Investigación (RAI), Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM)-Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Mexico City, Mexico
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Padmanabhan V, Cardoso RC. Neuroendocrine, autocrine, and paracrine control of follicle-stimulating hormone secretion. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2020; 500:110632. [PMID: 31682864 PMCID: PMC7433377 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2019.110632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2019] [Revised: 10/24/2019] [Accepted: 10/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is a glycoprotein hormone produced by gonadotropes in the anterior pituitary that plays a central role in controlling ovarian folliculogenesis and steroidogenesis in females. Moreover, recent studies strongly suggest that FSH exerts extragonadal actions, particularly regulating bone mass and adiposity. Despite its crucial role, the mechanisms regulating FSH secretion are not completely understood. It is evident that hypothalamic, ovarian, and pituitary factors are involved in the neuroendocrine, paracrine, and autocrine regulation of FSH production. Large animal models, such as the female sheep, represent valuable research models to investigate specific aspects of FSH secretory processes. This review: (i) summarizes the role of FSH controlling reproduction and other biological processes; (ii) discusses the hypothalamic, gonadal, and pituitary regulation of FSH secretion; (iii) considers the biological relevance of the different FSH isoforms; and (iv) summarizes the distinct patterns of FSH secretion under different physiological conditions.
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Coss D. Commentary on the Recent FSH Collection: Known Knowns and Known Unknowns. Endocrinology 2020; 161:5683667. [PMID: 31865385 PMCID: PMC6986550 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqz035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2019] [Accepted: 12/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is a dimeric glycoprotein secreted by the anterior pituitary gonadotrope that is necessary for reproductive function in mammals. FSH primarily regulates granulosa cells and follicular growth in females, and Sertoli cell function in males. Since its identification in the 1930s and sequencing in the 1970s, significant progress has been made in elucidating its regulation and downstream function. Recent advances provide deeper insight into FSH synthesis, and effects in the gonads suggest potential roles in extragonadal tissues and examine pharmacological approaches and clinical applications in infertility treatment that now affect 18% of couples. These advances were discussed in detail in a number of reviews published in the last 2 years in Endocrinology. In this brief commentary, we summarize these reviews and point to the outstanding questions that should be answered in the near future to bridge a gap in our understanding of this hormone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Djurdjica Coss
- Division of Biomedical Sciences; School of Medicine, University of California, Riverside; Riverside, California
- Correspondence: Djurdjica Coss, Division of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, Riverside; Riverside, California. E-mail:
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30
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Bernard DJ, Smith CL, Brûlé E. A Tale of Two Proteins: Betaglycan, IGSF1, and the Continuing Search for the Inhibin B Receptor. Trends Endocrinol Metab 2020; 31:37-45. [PMID: 31648935 DOI: 10.1016/j.tem.2019.08.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2019] [Revised: 08/28/2019] [Accepted: 08/29/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Inhibins are gonadal hormones that suppress follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) synthesis by pituitary gonadotrope cells. The structurally related activins stimulate FSH by signaling through complexes of type I and type II receptors. Two models of inhibin action were proposed in 2000. First, inhibins function as competitive receptor antagonists, binding activin type II receptors with high affinity in the presence of the TGF-β type III coreceptor, betaglycan. Second, immunoglobulin superfamily, member 1 (IGSF1, then called p120) was proposed to mediate inhibin B antagonism of activin signaling via its type I receptor. These ideas have been challenged over the past few years. Rather than playing a role in inhibin action, IGSF1 is involved in the central control of the thyroid gland. Betaglycan binds inhibin A and inhibin B with high affinity, but only functions as an obligate inhibin A coreceptor in murine gonadotropes. There is likely to be a distinct, but currently unidentified coreceptor for inhibin B.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel J Bernard
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, 3655 Promenade Sir William Osler, Montreal, Quebec, Canada, H3G 1Y6; Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, McGill University, 3655 Promenade Sir William Osler, Montreal, Quebec, Canada, H3G 1Y6.
| | - Courtney L Smith
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, 3655 Promenade Sir William Osler, Montreal, Quebec, Canada, H3G 1Y6
| | - Emilie Brûlé
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, McGill University, 3655 Promenade Sir William Osler, Montreal, Quebec, Canada, H3G 1Y6
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