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Zhu P, Bi X, Su D, Li X, Chen Y, Song Z, Zhao L, Wang Y, Xu S, Wu X. Transcription repression of estrogen receptor alpha by ghrelin/Gq/11/YAP signaling in granulosa cells promotes polycystic ovary syndrome. Hum Cell 2024:10.1007/s13577-024-01127-1. [PMID: 39225978 DOI: 10.1007/s13577-024-01127-1] [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: 02/04/2024] [Accepted: 08/23/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent endocrinological disorder affected by ghrelin. This study aimed to investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying the effects of ghrelin on PCOS manifestations in mice and to assess the therapeutic potential of ghrelin. Female C57BL/6 mice were subcutaneously injected with 6 mg/100 g dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) for 20 days to induce PCOS. Alterations in reproductive cycles, ovarian morphology, serum sex hormone levels, and related signaling markers were examined. Furthermore, ghrelin-induced effects on granulosa cells and the role of ghrelin/Gq/11/ Yes-associated protein (YAP) signaling were studied by silencing Gαq/11 or YAP using si-RNAs. Finally, we evaluated the therapeutic potential of anti-ghrelin antibodies in DHEA-induced PCOS mice. DHEA administration led to significant PCOS-associated changes including weight gain, disrupted estrous cycles, ovarian morphological alterations, and hormonal imbalances in mice, with elevated Gαq/11 and acylated ghrelin expression, which was also noted in PCOS patients. However, treatment with anti-ghrelin antibodies effectively managed DHEA-induced damage in PCOS mice. In vitro, ghrelin exposure resulted in granulosa cell injury and modulated estrogen receptors alpha (ERα) and YAP protein levels, whereas silencing YAP and Gαq/11 reversed ghrelin-induced detrimental effects and up-regulated ERα expression. This study revealed that DHEA-induced PCOS traits in mice could be improved by anti-ghrelin antibodies, with the ghrelin/Gq/11/YAP signaling pathway identified as a crucial mediator in granulosa cells, affecting ERα transcription to regulate PCOS. These findings suggest a potential therapeutic strategy for the treatment of PCOS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengfei Zhu
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Xinghualing District, Children's Hospital of Shanxi and Women Health Center, 13 Xinmin North Street, Taiyuan City, 030013, Shanxi Province, China
| | - Xingyu Bi
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Xinghualing District, Children's Hospital of Shanxi and Women Health Center, 13 Xinmin North Street, Taiyuan City, 030013, Shanxi Province, China
| | - Dan Su
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Xinghualing District, Children's Hospital of Shanxi and Women Health Center, 13 Xinmin North Street, Taiyuan City, 030013, Shanxi Province, China
| | - Xiaoling Li
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Xinghualing District, Children's Hospital of Shanxi and Women Health Center, 13 Xinmin North Street, Taiyuan City, 030013, Shanxi Province, China
| | - Yanhua Chen
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Xinghualing District, Children's Hospital of Shanxi and Women Health Center, 13 Xinmin North Street, Taiyuan City, 030013, Shanxi Province, China
| | - Zhijiao Song
- Department of Health Education, Children's Hospital of Shanxi and Women Health Center, Taiyuan City, 030013, Shanxi Province, China
| | - Lijiang Zhao
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Xinghualing District, Children's Hospital of Shanxi and Women Health Center, 13 Xinmin North Street, Taiyuan City, 030013, Shanxi Province, China
| | - Yaoqing Wang
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Xinghualing District, Children's Hospital of Shanxi and Women Health Center, 13 Xinmin North Street, Taiyuan City, 030013, Shanxi Province, China
| | - Suming Xu
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Xinghualing District, Children's Hospital of Shanxi and Women Health Center, 13 Xinmin North Street, Taiyuan City, 030013, Shanxi Province, China
| | - Xueqing Wu
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Xinghualing District, Children's Hospital of Shanxi and Women Health Center, 13 Xinmin North Street, Taiyuan City, 030013, Shanxi Province, China.
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Liu S, He Y, Gu Z. FATP5 modulates biological activity and lipid metabolism in prostate cancer through the TEAD4-mediated Hippo signaling. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1442911. [PMID: 39224804 PMCID: PMC11366587 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1442911] [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: 06/03/2024] [Accepted: 08/01/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Prostate cancer (PCa), one of the most prevalent malignant tumors in the genitourinary system, is characterized by distant metastasis and the development of castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC), which are major determinants of poor prognosis. Current treatment approaches for PCa primarily involve surgery and endocrine therapy, but effective strategies for managing distant metastasis and CRPC remain limited. Methods We utilized qPCR, WB, and other methods to measure the expression levels of respective proteins, concurrently assessing lipid metabolism to validate the role of FATP5 in lipid metabolism. Additionally, we employed bioinformatics analysis and WB techniques to explore the corresponding mechanisms. Results In this study, we conducted an analysis of clinical samples and public databases to identify differential expression of FATP5 and further investigated its association with clinical outcomes. Through biochemical and functional experiments, we elucidated the potential underlying mechanisms by which FATP5 facilitates the progression of PCa. Our findings demonstrate that specific upregulation of FATP5 significantly enhances proliferation, migration, and invasion of PCa cell lines, while also modulating lipid metabolism in PCa. Mechanistically, the expression of FATP5 is closely associated with the Hippo signaling pathway, as it promotes the nuclear accumulation of YAP1 by inhibiting AMPK and facilitating the activation of β-catenin and RHOA. Furthermore, the transcription of FATP5 is mediated by TEAD4, and this transcriptional activation requires the involvement of YAP1. Discussion FATP5 is highly expressed in prostate cancer and can enhance the biological activity and lipid metabolism of prostate cancer. We have also elucidated that FATP5 is regulated by the Hippo signaling pathway. This provides a new potential target for the treatment of prostate cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Zhengqin Gu
- Department of urology, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghaijiaotong University, Shanghai, China
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Bérubé M, Abedini A, Lapointe E, Gusscott S, Brind'Amour J, Zamberlam G, Boerboom D. SFRP4 promotes autophagy and blunts FSH responsiveness through inhibition of AKT signaling in ovarian granulosa cells. Cell Commun Signal 2024; 22:396. [PMID: 39138534 PMCID: PMC11323480 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-024-01736-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2024] [Accepted: 07/04/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Secreted frizzled-related proteins (SFRPs) comprise a family of WNT signaling antagonists whose roles in the ovary are poorly understood. Sfrp4-null mice were previously found to be hyperfertile due to an enhanced granulosa cell response to gonadotropins, leading to decreased antral follicle atresia and enhanced ovulation rates. The present study aimed to elucidate the mechanisms whereby SFRP4 antagonizes FSH action. METHODS Primary cultures of granulosa cells from wild-type mice were treated with FSH and/or SFRP4, and effects of treatment on gene expression were evaluated by RT-qPCR and RNAseq. Bioinformatic analyses were conducted to analyse the effects of SFRP4 on the transcriptome, and compare them to those of FSH or a constitutively active mutant of FOXO1. Additional granulosa cell cultures from wild-type or Sfrp4-null mice, some pretreated with pharmacologic inhibitors of specific signaling effectors, were used to examine the effects of FSH and/or SFRP4 on signaling pathways, autophagy and apoptosis by western blotting and TUNEL. RESULTS Treatment of cultured granulosa cells with recombinant SFRP4 was found to decrease basal and FSH-stimulated mRNA levels of FSH target genes. Unexpectedly, this effect was found to occur neither via a canonical (CTNNB1-dependent) nor non-canonical WNT signaling mechanism, but was found to be GSK3β-dependent. Rather, SFRP4 was found to antognize AKT activity via a mechanism involving AMPK. This lead to the hypophosphorylation of FOXO1 and a decrease in the expression of a portion of the FSH and FOXO1 transcriptomes. Conversely, FSH-stimulated AMPK, AKT and FOXO1 phosphorylation levels were found to be increased in the granulosa cells of Sfrp4-null mice relative to wild-type controls. SFRP4 treatement of granulosa cells also induced autophagy by signaling via AKT-mTORC1-ULK1, as well as apoptosis. CONCLUSIONS This study identifies a novel GSK3β-AMPK-AKT signaling mechanism through which SFPR4 antagonizes FSH action, and further identifies SFRP4 as a novel regulator of granulosa cell autophagy. These findings provide a mechanistic basis for the phenotypic changes previously observed in Sfrp4-null mice, and broaden our understanding of the physiological roles of WNT signaling processes in the ovary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Bérubé
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction et Fertilité, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, 3200 rue Sicotte, St-Hyacinthe, QC, J2S 2M2, Canada
| | - Atefeh Abedini
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction et Fertilité, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, 3200 rue Sicotte, St-Hyacinthe, QC, J2S 2M2, Canada
| | - Evelyne Lapointe
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction et Fertilité, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, 3200 rue Sicotte, St-Hyacinthe, QC, J2S 2M2, Canada
| | - Samuel Gusscott
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction et Fertilité, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, 3200 rue Sicotte, St-Hyacinthe, QC, J2S 2M2, Canada
| | - Julie Brind'Amour
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction et Fertilité, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, 3200 rue Sicotte, St-Hyacinthe, QC, J2S 2M2, Canada
| | - Gustavo Zamberlam
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction et Fertilité, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, 3200 rue Sicotte, St-Hyacinthe, QC, J2S 2M2, Canada
| | - Derek Boerboom
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction et Fertilité, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, 3200 rue Sicotte, St-Hyacinthe, QC, J2S 2M2, Canada.
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Cheng F, Wang J, Wang R, Pan R, Cui Z, Wang L, Wang L, Yang X. FGF2 promotes the proliferation of injured granulosa cells in premature ovarian failure via Hippo-YAP signaling pathway. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2024; 589:112248. [PMID: 38663484 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2024.112248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Revised: 03/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
Young women undergoing anticancer treatment are at risk of premature ovarian failure (POF). Endometrial-derived stem cells (EnSCs) have demonstrated significant therapeutic potential for treating ovarian insufficiency, although the underlying mechanisms remain to be fully understood. This study aims to further investigate the therapeutic effects of EnSCs, particularly through the paracrine action of fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2), on POF. The findings show that exogenous FGF2 enhances the survival of ovarian granulosa cells damaged by cisplatin. FGF2 stimulates the proliferation of these damaged cells by suppressing the Hippo signaling pathway and activating YAP expression. In vivo experiments also revealed that FGF2 treatment significantly improves ovarian reserve and endocrine function in mice with POF. These results suggest that FGF2 can boost the proliferative capacity of damaged ovarian granulosa cells through the Hippo-YAP signaling pathway, providing a theoretical foundation for using EnSCs and FGF2 in clinical treatments for POF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feiyan Cheng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, PR China
| | - Jingyuan Wang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, PR China
| | - Rongli Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, PR China
| | - Rumeng Pan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, PR China
| | - Zhiwei Cui
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, PR China
| | - Lijun Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, PR China
| | - Lihui Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, PR China
| | - Xinyuan Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, PR China.
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Floccari S, Sabry R, Choux L, Neal MS, Khokhar JY, Favetta LA. DNA methylation, but not microRNA expression, is affected by in vitro THC exposure in bovine granulosa cells. BMC Pharmacol Toxicol 2024; 25:42. [PMID: 39010179 PMCID: PMC11247865 DOI: 10.1186/s40360-024-00763-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/17/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A global increase in cannabis use has led to questions about its effects on fertility. The rise in consumption amongst women of reproductive age is a growing concern, as this group is vulnerable in terms of reproductive health. Ample evidence suggests that the psychoactive component of cannabis, Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), that helps regulate mammalian reproduction. This study aimed to research the epigenetic effects of THC in bovine granulosa cells (GCs) by (1) investigating global DNA methylation via measuring 5-mC and 5-hmC levels; (2) measuring key methylation regulators, including the methylating enzymes DNMT1, DNMT3a, DNMT3b and the demethylases TDG and TET1/2/3; and (3) assessing fertility-associated miRNAs key in developmental competency, including miR-21, -155, -33b, -324 and -346. METHODS Bovine GCs were used as a translational model for reproductive toxicity in humans. To determine THC effects, GCs were isolated from Cumulus-Oocyte-Complexes (COCs) from bovine ovaries, cultured in vitro for 7 days, or until confluent, and cryopreserved at passage 1 (P1). For experimentation, cells were thawed, cultured until passage 2 (P2), serum restricted for 24-h and treated for 24-h in one of five groups: control, vehicle (1:1:18 ethanol: tween: saline) and three clinically relevant THC doses (0.032, 0.32 and 3.2 μM). Global methylation was assessed by measuring 5-mC and 5-hmC levels with flow cytometry. To assess mRNA and protein expression of methylation regulators and miRNA profiles, qPCR and Western Blotting were utilized. Shapiro-Wilk test was used to determine normality within datasets. One-way ANOVA was applied to determine statistical significance using GraphPad Prism 6.0.0. RESULTS Results indicate a significant decrease (p = 0.0435) in 5-mC levels following low THC exposure, while no changes were observed in 5-hmC levels. A significant increase in DNMT1 following high THC exposure at the RNA level (p < 0.05) and a significant increase following low THC exposure at the protein level (p = 0.0048) were also observed. No significant differences were observed in DNMT3a/3b, TDG, TET1/2/3 mRNAs or in any of the miRNAs analyzed. CONCLUSIONS This research suggests that THC mainly affects DNA methylation, but not miRNA profiles, ultimately altering gene expression and likely impairing oocyte competence, maturation, and fertilization potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabrina Floccari
- Reproductive Health and Biotechnology Lab, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Reem Sabry
- Reproductive Health and Biotechnology Lab, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Laurie Choux
- Reproductive Health and Biotechnology Lab, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Michael S Neal
- ONE Fertility, Burlington, ON, Canada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Jibran Y Khokhar
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Laura A Favetta
- Reproductive Health and Biotechnology Lab, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada.
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Chen Y, Wang G, Chen J, Wang C, Dong X, Chang HM, Yuan S, Zhao Y, Mu L. Genetic and Epigenetic Landscape for Drug Development in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. Endocr Rev 2024; 45:437-459. [PMID: 38298137 DOI: 10.1210/endrev/bnae002] [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: 11/13/2023] [Revised: 12/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/02/2024]
Abstract
The treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) faces challenges as all known treatments are merely symptomatic. The US Food and Drug Administration has not approved any drug specifically for treating PCOS. As the significance of genetics and epigenetics rises in drug development, their pivotal insights have greatly enhanced the efficacy and success of drug target discovery and validation, offering promise for guiding the advancement of PCOS treatments. In this context, we outline the genetic and epigenetic advancement in PCOS, which provide novel insights into the pathogenesis of this complex disease. We also delve into the prospective method for harnessing genetic and epigenetic strategies to identify potential drug targets and ensure target safety. Additionally, we shed light on the preliminary evidence and distinctive challenges associated with gene and epigenetic therapies in the context of PCOS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Chen
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
- The First School of Medicine, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Guiquan Wang
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Women and Children's Hospital, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361003, China
- Xiamen Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361023, China
| | - Jingqiao Chen
- The First School of Medicine, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Congying Wang
- The Department of Cardiology, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang 322000, China
| | - Xi Dong
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Hsun-Ming Chang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 40400, Taiwan
| | - Shuai Yuan
- Unit of Cardiovascular and Nutritional Epidemiology, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm 171 65, Sweden
| | - Yue Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Female Fertility Promotion, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing 100007, China
- Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Liangshan Mu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
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Pietroforte S, Plough M, Amargant F. Age-associated increased stiffness of the ovarian microenvironment impairs follicle development and oocyte quality and rapidly alters follicle gene expression. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.06.09.598134. [PMID: 38915651 PMCID: PMC11195110 DOI: 10.1101/2024.06.09.598134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/26/2024]
Abstract
In humans, aging triggers cellular and tissue deterioration, and the female reproductive system is the first to show signs of decline. Reproductive aging is associated with decreased ovarian reserve, decreased quality of the remaining oocytes, and decreased production of the ovarian hormones estrogen and progesterone. With aging, both mouse and human ovaries become pro-fibrotic and stiff. However, whether stiffness directly impairs ovarian function, folliculogenesis, and oocyte quality is unknown. To answer this question, we cultured mouse follicles in alginate gels that mimicked the stiffness of reproductively young and old ovaries. Follicles cultured in stiff hydrogels exhibited decreased survival and growth, decreased granulosa cell viability and estradiol synthesis, and decreased oocyte quality. We also observed a reduction in the number of granulosa cell-oocyte transzonal projections. RNA sequencing revealed early changes in the follicle transcriptome in response to stiffness. Follicles cultured in a stiff environment had lower expression of genes related to follicle development and greater expression of genes related to inflammation and extracellular matrix remodeling than follicles cultured in a soft environment. Altogether, our findings suggest that ovarian stiffness directly modulates folliculogenesis and contributes to the progressive decline in oocyte quantity and quality observed in women of advanced maternal age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Pietroforte
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Makenzie Plough
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Farners Amargant
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
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Ghorbani M, Sanoee Farimani M, Khodadadi I, Mohagheghi S, Amiri I, Tayebinia H. The regulatory roles of Smad2/3 protein and SMURF2 gene expression in granulosa cells of germinal vesicle and metaphase II oocytes in polycystic ovarian syndrome: A case-control study. Int J Reprod Biomed 2024; 22:441-450. [PMID: 39205921 PMCID: PMC11347763 DOI: 10.18502/ijrm.v22i6.16794] [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: 12/11/2023] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The impaired functions of granulosa cells (GCs) in the delayed development and immaturity of oocytes have been reported in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOs). Even with ovarian stimulation, a large number of oocytes in these patients are still in the stage germinal vesicle (GV). Objective The levels of Smad2/3, phosphorylated Smad2/3 (P-Smad2/3), the expression of SARA, Smad4, and SMURF2 genes in the GCs surrounding metaphase II (MII) or GV oocytes in PCOs women were investigated. Materials and Methods GCs of MII and GV oocytes were isolated from 38 women with PCOs and the expression levels of SARA, Smad4, and SMURF2 in surrounding GCs of MII and GV oocytes were determined using reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction. Also, Smad2/3 and P-Smad2/3 proteins were determined using western blotting. Results The expression level of SMURF2 was significantly higher in GCs surrounding GV oocytes compared with that of GCs encompassing MII oocytes (p < 0.001). At the same time, no significant differences were observed in SARA and Smad4 expression levels in GCs surrounding GV and MII oocytes. A lower level of P-Smad2/3 was also found in GCs GV oocytes compared with GCs of MII oocytes (p < 0.001). Conclusion It seems that P-Smad2/3 plays a role in oocyte development, and the downregulation of this protein is associated with a defect in the maturation of GV oocytes. On the other hand, the upregulation of the SMURF2 gene also affects the growth process of GCs and the maturation of GV oocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marzieh Ghorbani
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
- Fertility and Infertility Research Centre, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Marzieh Sanoee Farimani
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medicine School, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
- Omid Infertility Centre, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Iraj Khodadadi
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Sina Mohagheghi
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Iraj Amiri
- Fertility and Infertility Research Centre, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, School of Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Heidar Tayebinia
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
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Azumah R, Hummitzsch K, Anderson RA, Rodgers RJ. Expression of transforming growth factor β signalling molecules and their correlations with genes in loci linked to polycystic ovary syndrome in human foetal and adult tissues. Reprod Fertil Dev 2024; 36:RD23174. [PMID: 38894494 DOI: 10.1071/rd23174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Context Altered signalling of androgens, anti-Müllerian hormone or transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ) during foetal development have been implicated in the predisposition to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in later life, aside from its genetic predisposition. In foetal ovarian fibroblasts, TGFβ1 has been shown to regulate androgen signalling and seven genes located in loci associated with PCOS. Since PCOS exhibits a myriad of symptoms, it likely involves many different organs. Aims To identify the relationships between TGFβ signalling molecules and PCOS candidate genes in different tissues associated with PCOS. Methods Using RNA sequencing data, we examined the expression patterns of TGFβ signalling molecules in the human ovary, testis, heart, liver, kidney, brain tissue, and cerebellum from 4 to 20weeks of gestation and postnatally. We also examined the correlations between gene expression of TGFβ signalling molecules and PCOS candidate genes. Key results TGFβ signalling molecules were dynamically expressed in most tissues prenatally and/or postnatally. FBN3 , a PCOS candidate gene involved in TGFβ signalling, was expressed during foetal development in all tissues. The PCOS candidate genes HMGA2, YAP1 , and RAD50 correlated significantly (P TGFBR1 in six out of the seven tissues examined. Conclusions This study suggests that possible crosstalk occurs between genes in loci associated with PCOS and TGFβ signalling molecules in multiple tissues, particularly during foetal development. Implications Thus, alteration in TGFβ signalling during foetal development could affect many tissues contributing to the multiple phenotypes of PCOS in later life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafiatu Azumah
- Robinson Research Institute, School of Biomedicine, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
| | - Katja Hummitzsch
- Robinson Research Institute, School of Biomedicine, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
| | - Richard A Anderson
- Medical Research Council Centre for Reproductive Health, Queen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK
| | - Raymond J Rodgers
- Robinson Research Institute, School of Biomedicine, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
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Panagiotou EM, Damdimopoulos A, Li T, Moussaud-Lamodière E, Pedersen M, Lebre F, Pettersson K, Arnelo C, Papaikonomou K, Alfaro-Moreno E, Lindskog C, Svingen T, Damdimopoulou P. Exposure to the phthalate metabolite MEHP impacts survival and growth of human ovarian follicles in vitro. Toxicology 2024; 505:153815. [PMID: 38685446 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2024.153815] [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: 03/01/2024] [Revised: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
Phthalates are found in everyday items like plastics and personal care products. There is an increasing concern that continuous exposure can adversely affect female fertility. However, experimental data are lacking to establish causal links between exposure and disease in humans. To address this gap, we tested the effects of a common phthalate metabolite, mono-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (MEHP), on adult human ovaries in vitro using an epidemiologically determined human-relevant concentration range (2.05 nM - 20.51 mM). Histomorphological assessments, steroid and cytokine measurements were performed on human ovarian tissue exposed to MEHP for 7 days in vitro. Cell viability and gene expression profile were investigated following 7 days of MEHP exposure using the human granulosa cancer cell lines KGN, and COV434, the germline tumor cell line PA-1, and human ovarian primary cells. Selected differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were validated by RT-qPCR and immunofluorescence in human ovarian tissue. MEHP exposure reduced follicular growth (20.51 nM) and increased follicular degeneration (20.51 mM) in ovarian tissue, while not affecting steroid and cytokine production. Out of the 691 unique DEGs identified across all the cell types and concentrations, CSRP2 involved in cytoskeleton organization and YWHAE as well as CTNNB1 involved in the Hippo pathway, were chosen for further validation. CSRP2 was upregulated and CTNNB1 downregulated in both ovarian tissue and cells, whereas YWHAE was downregulated in cells only. In summary, one-week MEHP exposure of human ovarian tissue can perturb the development and survival of human follicles through mechanisms likely involving dysregulation of cytoskeleton organization and Hippo pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleftheria Maria Panagiotou
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm 14186, Sweden; Department of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm 171 77, Sweden.
| | - Anastasios Damdimopoulos
- Bioinformatics and Expression Analysis Core Facility, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm 14186, Sweden
| | - Tianyi Li
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm 14186, Sweden; Department of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm 171 77, Sweden
| | - Elisabeth Moussaud-Lamodière
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm 14186, Sweden; Department of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm 171 77, Sweden
| | - Mikael Pedersen
- National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs. Lyngby DK-2800, Denmark
| | - Filipa Lebre
- Nanosafety Group, International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory, Braga, Portugal
| | - Karin Pettersson
- Department of Pregnancy and Delivery, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Catarina Arnelo
- Department of Pregnancy and Delivery, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Kiriaki Papaikonomou
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm 171 77, Sweden
| | | | - Cecilia Lindskog
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Cancer Precision Medicine, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Terje Svingen
- National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs. Lyngby DK-2800, Denmark
| | - Pauliina Damdimopoulou
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm 14186, Sweden; Department of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm 171 77, Sweden
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11
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Balakrishnan K, Chen Y, Dong J. Amplification of Hippo Signaling Pathway Genes Is Governed and Implicated in the Serous Subtype-Specific Ovarian Carcino-Genesis. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1781. [PMID: 38730733 PMCID: PMC11082992 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16091781] [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: 04/13/2024] [Revised: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Among women, ovarian cancer ranks as the fifth most common cause of cancer-related deaths. This study examined the impact of Hippo signaling pathway on ovarian carcinogenesis. Therefore, the signatures related to Hippo signaling pathway were derived from the molecular signatures database (MSigDB) and were used for further analysis. The Z score-based pathway activation scoring method was employed to investigate the expression patterns of these signatures in the mRNA expression profiles of ovarian cancer cohorts. Compared to other subtype tumors, the results of this study show that the Hippo signaling pathway signatures are dysregulated prominently in serous subtype-specific ovarian carcinogenesis. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve-based results of the Hippo gene set, yes-associated protein 1 (YAP1), and mammalian sterile 20-like kinases 1 (MST1) genes can predict the serous subtype tumors by higher specificity and sensitivity with significant areas under the curve values also further reconfirmed these signaling dysregulations. Moreover, these gene sets were studied further for mutation analysis in the profile of high-grade serous ovarian adenocarcinoma in the cBioPortal database. The OncoPrint results reveal that these Hippo signaling pathway genes are amplified highly during the grade three and stage third or fourth of serous type ovarian tumors. In addition, the results of the Dependency Map (DepMap) plot also clearly show that these genes are amplified significantly across the ovarian cancer cell lines. Finally, overall survival (OS) curve plot investigations also revealed that these gene expressions show poor survival patterns linked to highly expressed conditions in serous subtypes of ovarian cancer patients with significant p-values (p < 0.05). Thus, the current finding would help to develop the targeted therapies treatment for serous subtype ovarian carcinogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jixin Dong
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA; (K.B.); (Y.C.)
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12
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Lin Y, Sun L, Dai J, Lv Y, Liao R, Shen X, Gao J. Characterization and Comparative Analysis of Whole-Transcriptome Sequencing in High- and Low-Fecundity Chongming White Goat Ovaries during the Estrus Phase. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:988. [PMID: 38612227 PMCID: PMC11010919 DOI: 10.3390/ani14070988] [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: 02/01/2024] [Revised: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Reproductive performance is one of the most important economic traits in the goat industry. Increasing the number of goats is an effective measure to improve production efficiency and reduce production costs. Ovaries are important reproductive organs in female mammals that directly affect the estrous cycle and reproductive abilities. Understanding the complex transcription network of non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs, circRNAs, and miRNAs) and messenger RNA (mRNA) could lead to significant insights into the ovarian regulation of the reproductive processes of animals. However, the whole-transcriptome analysis of the non-coding RNAs and mRNA of the ovaries in Chongming white goats between high-fecundity (HP) and low-fecundity (LP) groups is limited. In this study, a whole-transcriptome sequencing approach was used to identify lncRNA, circRNA, miRNA, and mRNA expression in the ovaries of Chongming white goats during the estrus phase using RNA-Seq technology. More than 20,000 messenger RNAs (mRNAs), 10,000 long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), 3500 circular RNAs (circRNAs), and 1000 micro RNAs (miRNAs) were identified. A total of 1024 differential transcripts (724 mRNAs, 112 lncRNAs, 178 circRNAs, and 10 miRNAs) existing between the HP and the LP groups were revealed through a bioinformatics analysis. They were enriched in the prolactin signaling pathway, the Jak-STAT signaling pathway, and the GnRH signaling pathway, as well as various metabolic pathways. Differentially expressed mRNAs (such as LYPD6, VEGFA, NOS3, TNXB, and EPHA2) and miRNAs (such as miR-10a-5p) play key roles in the regulation of goat ovaries during the estrus phase. The enrichment of pathways related to reproduction, such as the Hippo, Hedgehog, PI3K-AKT, and MAPK signaling pathways, suggests that they might be involved in the prolificacy of goat ovaries. Overall, we identified several gene modules associated with goat fecundity and provided a basis for a molecular mechanism in the ovaries of Chongming white goats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuexia Lin
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Science, Shanghai Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai 201106, China; (Y.L.); (L.S.); (J.D.); (Y.L.); (R.L.)
| | - Lingwei Sun
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Science, Shanghai Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai 201106, China; (Y.L.); (L.S.); (J.D.); (Y.L.); (R.L.)
- Division of Animal Genetic Engineering, Shanghai Municipal Key Laboratory of Agri-Genetics and Breeding, Shanghai 201106, China
- Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Resources (Pig) Evaluation and Utilization, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Shanghai 201106, China
| | - Jianjun Dai
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Science, Shanghai Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai 201106, China; (Y.L.); (L.S.); (J.D.); (Y.L.); (R.L.)
- Division of Animal Genetic Engineering, Shanghai Municipal Key Laboratory of Agri-Genetics and Breeding, Shanghai 201106, China
- Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Resources (Pig) Evaluation and Utilization, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Shanghai 201106, China
| | - Yuhua Lv
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Science, Shanghai Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai 201106, China; (Y.L.); (L.S.); (J.D.); (Y.L.); (R.L.)
| | - Rongrong Liao
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Science, Shanghai Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai 201106, China; (Y.L.); (L.S.); (J.D.); (Y.L.); (R.L.)
| | - Xiaohui Shen
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Science, Shanghai Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai 201106, China; (Y.L.); (L.S.); (J.D.); (Y.L.); (R.L.)
| | - Jun Gao
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Science, Shanghai Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai 201106, China; (Y.L.); (L.S.); (J.D.); (Y.L.); (R.L.)
- Division of Animal Genetic Engineering, Shanghai Municipal Key Laboratory of Agri-Genetics and Breeding, Shanghai 201106, China
- Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Resources (Pig) Evaluation and Utilization, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Shanghai 201106, China
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13
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Basini G, Bussolati S, Grolli S, Berni P, Grasselli F. Are the new phthalates safe? Evaluation of Diisononilphtalate (DINP) effects in porcine ovarian cell cultures. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND PHARMACOLOGY 2024; 106:104384. [PMID: 38331371 DOI: 10.1016/j.etap.2024.104384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
Phthalates are plasticizing chemicals, widely used in packaging materials and consumer products for several decades. These molecules have raised concerns because of their toxicity and their use have been restricted in several countries. Therefore, novel phthalates have been introduced. Among these, diisononilphtalate (DINP) is widely employed. However, its safety has not been properly addressed. Therefore, using a well validated granulosa cell model, collected from swine ovaries with a translational value, we studied potential DINP effects on important cellular functional parameters. In particular, we studied cell growth, steroidogenesis and redox status. Collected data showed that DINP stimulates (p < 0.05) cell growth, increases estrogen and inhibits progesterone production (p < 0.05), disrupts redox balance stimulating free radicals (p < 0.05) while reducing scavenger activities (p< 0.05). Taken together, DINP's impact on cultured swine granulosa cells provides cause for concern regarding its potential adverse effects on reproductive and endocrine functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Basini
- Dipartimento di Scienze Medico-Veterinarie, Università degli Studi di Parma, Via del Taglio 10, Parma 43126, Italy.
| | - S Bussolati
- Dipartimento di Scienze Medico-Veterinarie, Università degli Studi di Parma, Via del Taglio 10, Parma 43126, Italy
| | - S Grolli
- Dipartimento di Scienze Medico-Veterinarie, Università degli Studi di Parma, Via del Taglio 10, Parma 43126, Italy
| | - P Berni
- Dipartimento di Scienze Medico-Veterinarie, Università degli Studi di Parma, Via del Taglio 10, Parma 43126, Italy
| | - F Grasselli
- Dipartimento di Scienze Medico-Veterinarie, Università degli Studi di Parma, Via del Taglio 10, Parma 43126, Italy
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14
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Janati-Idrissi S, de Abreu MR, Guyomar C, de Mello F, Nguyen T, Mechkouri N, Gay S, Montfort J, Gonzalez A, Abbasi M, Bugeon J, Thermes V, Seitz H, Bobe J. Looking for a needle in a haystack: de novo phenotypic target identification reveals Hippo pathway-mediated miR-202 regulation of egg production. Nucleic Acids Res 2024; 52:738-754. [PMID: 38059397 PMCID: PMC10810276 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkad1154] [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: 09/08/2023] [Revised: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Understanding microRNA (miRNA) functions has been hampered by major difficulties in identifying their biological target(s). Currently, the main limitation is the lack of a suitable strategy to identify biologically relevant targets among a high number of putative targets. Here we provide a proof of concept of successful de novo (i.e. without prior knowledge of its identity) miRNA phenotypic target (i.e. target whose de-repression contributes to the phenotypic outcomes) identification from RNA-seq data. Using the medaka mir-202 knock-out (KO) model in which inactivation leads to a major organism-level reproductive phenotype, including reduced egg production, we introduced novel criteria including limited fold-change in KO and low interindividual variability in gene expression to reduce the list of 2853 putative targets to a short list of 5. We selected tead3b, a member of the evolutionarily-conserved Hippo pathway, known to regulate ovarian functions, due to its remarkably strong and evolutionarily conserved binding affinity for miR-202-5p. Deleting the miR-202-5p binding site in the 3' UTR of tead3b, but not of other Hippo pathway members sav1 and vgll4b, triggered a reduced egg production phenotype. This is one of the few successful examples of de novo functional assignment of a miRNA phenotypic target in vivo in vertebrates.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Cervin Guyomar
- Sigenae, GenPhySE, Université de Toulouse, INRAE, ENVT, Castanet Tolosan, France
| | | | | | - Nazim Mechkouri
- Institut de Génétique Humaine, UMR 9002 CNRS and University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | | | | | - Anne Alicia Gonzalez
- MGX-Montpellier GenomiX, University of Montpellier, CNRS, INSERM, Montpellier, France
| | | | | | | | - Hervé Seitz
- Institut de Génétique Humaine, UMR 9002 CNRS and University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
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15
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Wang H, Han X, Ren J, Cheng H, Li H, Li Y, Li X. A prognostic prediction model for ovarian cancer using a cross-modal view correlation discovery network. MATHEMATICAL BIOSCIENCES AND ENGINEERING : MBE 2024; 21:736-764. [PMID: 38303441 DOI: 10.3934/mbe.2024031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
Ovarian cancer is a tumor with different clinicopathological and molecular features, and the vast majority of patients have local or extensive spread at the time of diagnosis. Early diagnosis and prognostic prediction of patients can contribute to the understanding of the underlying pathogenesis of ovarian cancer and the improvement of therapeutic outcomes. The occurrence of ovarian cancer is influenced by multiple complex mechanisms, including the genome, transcriptome and proteome. Different types of omics analysis help predict the survival rate of ovarian cancer patients. Multi-omics data of ovarian cancer exhibit high-dimensional heterogeneity, and existing methods for integrating multi-omics data have not taken into account the variability and inter-correlation between different omics data. In this paper, we propose a deep learning model, MDCADON, which utilizes multi-omics data and cross-modal view correlation discovery network. We introduce random forest into LASSO regression for feature selection on mRNA expression, DNA methylation, miRNA expression and copy number variation (CNV), aiming to select important features highly correlated with ovarian cancer prognosis. A multi-modal deep neural network is used to comprehensively learn feature representations of each omics data and clinical data, and cross-modal view correlation discovery network is employed to construct the multi-omics discovery tensor, exploring the inter-relationships between different omics data. The experimental results demonstrate that MDCADON is superior to the existing methods in predicting ovarian cancer prognosis, which enables survival analysis for patients and facilitates the determination of follow-up treatment plans. Finally, we perform Gene Ontology (GO) term analysis and biological pathway analysis on the genes identified by MDCADON, revealing the underlying mechanisms of ovarian cancer and providing certain support for guiding ovarian cancer treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huiqing Wang
- College of Computer Science and Technology (College of Data Science), Taiyuan University of Technology, Taiyuan 030024, China
| | - Xiao Han
- College of Computer Science and Technology (College of Data Science), Taiyuan University of Technology, Taiyuan 030024, China
| | - Jianxue Ren
- College of Computer Science and Technology (College of Data Science), Taiyuan University of Technology, Taiyuan 030024, China
| | - Hao Cheng
- College of Computer Science and Technology (College of Data Science), Taiyuan University of Technology, Taiyuan 030024, China
| | - Haolin Li
- College of Computer Science and Technology (College of Data Science), Taiyuan University of Technology, Taiyuan 030024, China
| | - Ying Li
- College of Computer Science and Technology (College of Data Science), Taiyuan University of Technology, Taiyuan 030024, China
| | - Xue Li
- College of Computer Science and Technology (College of Data Science), Taiyuan University of Technology, Taiyuan 030024, China
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16
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Wang K, Li Y. Signaling pathways and targeted therapeutic strategies for polycystic ovary syndrome. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1191759. [PMID: 37929034 PMCID: PMC10622806 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1191759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrine disorder among women of reproductive age. Although promising strides have been made in the field of PCOS over the past decades, the distinct etiologies of this syndrome are not fully elucidated. Prenatal factors, genetic variation, epigenetic mechanisms, unhealthy lifestyles, and environmental toxins all contribute to the development of this intricate and highly heterogeneous metabolic, endocrine, reproductive, and psychological disorder. Moreover, interactions between androgen excess, insulin resistance, disruption to the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovary (HPO) axis, and obesity only make for a more complex picture. In this review, we investigate and summarize the related molecular mechanisms underlying PCOS pathogenesis from the perspective of the level of signaling pathways, including PI3K/Akt, TGF-β/Smads, Wnt/β-catenin, and Hippo/YAP. Additionally, this review provides an overview of prospective therapies, such as exosome therapy, gene therapy, and drugs based on traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and natural compounds. By targeting these aberrant pathways, these interventions primarily alleviate inflammation, insulin resistance, androgen excess, and ovarian fibrosis, which are typical symptoms of PCOS. Overall, we hope that this paper will pave the way for better understanding and management of PCOS in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kexin Wang
- The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yanhua Li
- Department of General Practice, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
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17
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Wang D, Ma B, Liao Z, Li W, Zhang T, Lei C, Wang H. Flaxseed Supplementation in Chicken Feed Accelerates Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica Serovar Enteritidis Clearance, Modulates Cecum Microbiota, and Influences Ovarian Gene Expression in Laying Hens. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1353. [PMID: 37759753 PMCID: PMC10526464 DOI: 10.3390/biom13091353] [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: 07/04/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/20/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Salmonella is a foodborne pathogen that poses a serious threat to both human and animal health and food safety. Flaxseed is rich in unsaturated fatty acids; has anti-metabolic syndrome, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties; and may be a potential source of feed additives. To investigate the impact of flaxseed on Salmonella-infected laying hens, we administered Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica serovar Enteritidis (S. Enteritidis) after adding flaxseed to the feed of laying hens (15% [750 mg/kg]). S. Enteritidis colonization was reduced and its clearance was accelerated from the laying hens. Furthermore, flaxseed supplementation mitigated the damage to the ileum caused by S. Enteritidis. We analyzed alterations in intestinal flora through 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing. S. Enteritidis infection increased the abundance of Akkermansia and triggered the host inflammatory response. Conversely, the addition of flaxseed to the feed increased the abundance of beneficial intestinal bacteria, such as Lactobacilli and Bacteroides. Ovarian health is important for egg production performance in laying hens and our findings indicate that S. Enteritidis can persist in the ovaries for an extended period. Therefore, we further performed transcriptome sequencing analysis of ovarian tissues on day seven after S. Enteritidis infection. S. Enteritidis infection leads to altered ovarian gene expression, including the downregulation of lipid metabolism and growth and development genes and the upregulation of host immune response genes in laying hens. The upregulation of genes associated with growth and development may have stimulated ovarian growth and development.
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Affiliation(s)
- De Wang
- College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610044, China; (D.W.); (B.M.); (Z.L.); (W.L.); (T.Z.)
- Key Laboratory of Bio-Resource and Eco-Environment of the Ministry of Education, Chengdu 610064, China
- Animal Disease Prevention and Food Safety Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Chengdu 610064, China
| | - Boheng Ma
- College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610044, China; (D.W.); (B.M.); (Z.L.); (W.L.); (T.Z.)
- Key Laboratory of Bio-Resource and Eco-Environment of the Ministry of Education, Chengdu 610064, China
- Animal Disease Prevention and Food Safety Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Chengdu 610064, China
| | - Ziwei Liao
- College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610044, China; (D.W.); (B.M.); (Z.L.); (W.L.); (T.Z.)
- Key Laboratory of Bio-Resource and Eco-Environment of the Ministry of Education, Chengdu 610064, China
- Animal Disease Prevention and Food Safety Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Chengdu 610064, China
| | - Wenjing Li
- College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610044, China; (D.W.); (B.M.); (Z.L.); (W.L.); (T.Z.)
- Key Laboratory of Bio-Resource and Eco-Environment of the Ministry of Education, Chengdu 610064, China
- Animal Disease Prevention and Food Safety Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Chengdu 610064, China
| | - Tiejun Zhang
- College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610044, China; (D.W.); (B.M.); (Z.L.); (W.L.); (T.Z.)
- Key Laboratory of Bio-Resource and Eco-Environment of the Ministry of Education, Chengdu 610064, China
- Animal Disease Prevention and Food Safety Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Chengdu 610064, China
| | - Changwei Lei
- College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610044, China; (D.W.); (B.M.); (Z.L.); (W.L.); (T.Z.)
- Key Laboratory of Bio-Resource and Eco-Environment of the Ministry of Education, Chengdu 610064, China
- Animal Disease Prevention and Food Safety Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Chengdu 610064, China
| | - Hongning Wang
- College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610044, China; (D.W.); (B.M.); (Z.L.); (W.L.); (T.Z.)
- Key Laboratory of Bio-Resource and Eco-Environment of the Ministry of Education, Chengdu 610064, China
- Animal Disease Prevention and Food Safety Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Chengdu 610064, China
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18
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Zhu M, Xu M, Zhang J, Zheng C. The role of Hippo pathway in ovarian development. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1198873. [PMID: 37334049 PMCID: PMC10275494 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1198873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023] Open
Abstract
The follicle is the functional unit of the ovary, whereby ovarian development is largely dependent on the development of the follicles themselves. The activation, growth, and progression of follicles are modulated by a diverse range of factors, including reproductive endocrine system and multiple signaling pathways. The Hippo pathway exhibits a high degree of evolutionary conservation between both Drosophila and mammalian systems, and is recognized for its pivotal role in regulating cellular proliferation, control of organ size, and embryonic development. During the process of follicle development, the components of the Hippo pathway show temporal and spatial variations. Recent clinical studies have shown that ovarian fragmentation can activate follicles. The mechanism is that the mechanical signal of cutting triggers actin polymerization. This process leads to the disruption of the Hippo pathway and subsequently induces the upregulation of downstream CCN and apoptosis inhibitors, thereby promoting follicle development. Thus, the Hippo pathway plays a crucial role in both the activation and development of follicles. In this article, we focused on the development and atresia of follicles and the function of Hippo pathway in these processes. Additionally, the physiological effects of Hippo pathway in follicle activation are also explored.
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19
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Coxir SA, Costa GMJ, Santos CFD, Alvarenga RDLLS, Lacerda SMDSN. From in vivo to in vitro: exploring the key molecular and cellular aspects of human female gametogenesis. Hum Cell 2023:10.1007/s13577-023-00921-7. [PMID: 37237248 DOI: 10.1007/s13577-023-00921-7] [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: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Human oogenesis is a highly complex and not yet fully understood process due to ethical and technological barriers that limit studies in the field. In this context, replicating female gametogenesis in vitro would not only provide a solution for some infertility problems, but also be an excellent study model to better understand the biological mechanisms that determine the formation of the female germline. In this review, we explore the main cellular and molecular aspects involved in human oogenesis and folliculogenesis in vivo, from the specification of primordial germ cells (PGCs) to the formation of the mature oocyte. We also sought to describe the important bidirectional relationship between the germ cell and the follicular somatic cells. Finally, we address the main advances and different methodologies used in the search for obtaining cells of the female germline in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Abreu Coxir
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Guilherme Mattos Jardim Costa
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Camilla Fernandes Dos Santos
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, 31270-901, Brazil
| | | | - Samyra Maria Dos Santos Nassif Lacerda
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, 31270-901, Brazil.
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Xia L, Shen Y, Liu S, Du J. Iron overload triggering ECM-mediated Hippo/YAP pathway in follicle development: a hypothetical model endowed with therapeutic implications. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1174817. [PMID: 37223010 PMCID: PMC10200985 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1174817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Disruption of iron homeostasis plays a negative role in follicle development. The dynamic changes in follicle growth are dependent on Hippo/YAP signaling and mechanical forces. However, little is known about the liaison between iron overload and the Hippo/YAP signalling pathway in term of folliculogenesis. Here, based on the available evidence, we established a hypothesized model linking excessive iron, extracellular matrix (ECM), transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) and Hippo/Yes-associated protein (YAP) signal regarding follicle development. Hypothetically, the TGF-β signal and iron overload may play a synergistic role in ECM production via YAP. We speculate that the dynamic homeostasis of follicular iron interacts with YAP, increasing the risk of ovarian reserve loss and may enhance the sensitivity of follicles to accumulated iron. Hence, therapeutic interventions targeting iron metabolism disorders, and Hippo/YAP signal may alter the consequences of the impaired developmental process based on our hypothesis, which provides potential targets and inspiration for further drug discovery and development applied to clinical treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingjin Xia
- National Health Commission of the People's Republic of China (NHC) Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies), School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yupei Shen
- National Health Commission of the People's Republic of China (NHC) Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies), School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Suying Liu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jing Du
- National Health Commission of the People's Republic of China (NHC) Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies), School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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21
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Zhang P, Pan Y, Wu S, He Y, Wang J, Chen L, Zhang S, Zhang H, Zhao Y, Niu L, Gan M, Wang Y, Shen L, Zhu L. n-3 PUFA Promotes Ferroptosis in PCOS GCs by Inhibiting YAP1 through Activation of the Hippo Pathway. Nutrients 2023; 15:nu15081927. [PMID: 37111146 PMCID: PMC10145554 DOI: 10.3390/nu15081927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Revised: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/15/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is an endocrine disorder characterized by hyperandrogenemia with multiple suspended sinus follicles, thickened cortical tissue, and excessive proliferation of ovarian granulosa cells that severely affects the fertility and quality of life of women. The addition of n-3 PUFA to the diet may slightly reduce body weight and greatly alleviate disturbed blood hormone levels in PCOS mice. We treated KGN as a cell model for n-3 PUFA addition and showed that n-3 PUFA inhibited the proliferation of GCs and promoted ferroptosis in ovarian granulosa cells. We used CCK-8, fluorescence quantitative transmission electron microscopy experiments and ferroptosis marker gene detection and other methods. Furthermore, n-3 PUFA was found to promote YAP1 exocytosis by activating Hippo and weakening the cross-talk between YAP1 and Nrf2 by activating the Hippo signaling pathway. In this study, we found that n-3 PUFA inhibited the over proliferation of granulosa cells in ovarian follicles by activating Hippo, promoting YAP1 exocytosis, weakening the cross-talk between YAP1 and Nrf2, and ultimately activating the ferroptosis sensitivity of ovarian granulosa cells. We demonstrate that n-3 PUFA can alleviate the hormonal and estrous cycle disorder with PCOS by inhibiting the YAP1-Nrf2 crosstalk that suppresses over proliferating ovarian granulosa cells and promotes iron death in GCs. These findings reveal the molecular mechanisms by which n-3 PUFA attenuates PCOS and identify YAP1-Nrf2 as a potential therapeutic target for regulation granulosa cells in PCOS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peiwen Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-Omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
- Farm Animal Genetic Resource Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Yuheng Pan
- Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-Omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
- Farm Animal Genetic Resource Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Shuang Wu
- Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-Omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
- Farm Animal Genetic Resource Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Yuxu He
- Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-Omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
- Farm Animal Genetic Resource Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Jinyong Wang
- Chongqing Academy of Animal Science, Chongqing 402460, China
| | - Lei Chen
- Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-Omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
- Farm Animal Genetic Resource Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Shunhua Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-Omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
- Farm Animal Genetic Resource Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Hui Zhang
- Sichaun Center for Animal Disease Control, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Ye Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-Omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
- Farm Animal Genetic Resource Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Lili Niu
- Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-Omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
- Farm Animal Genetic Resource Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Mailin Gan
- Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-Omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
- Farm Animal Genetic Resource Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Yan Wang
- Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-Omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
- Farm Animal Genetic Resource Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Linyuan Shen
- Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-Omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
- Farm Animal Genetic Resource Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Li Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-Omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
- Farm Animal Genetic Resource Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
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22
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Huang J, Wu T, Li Y, Zhang Y, Yu X, Xu D, Wang H. Toxic effect window of ovarian development in female offspring mice induced by prenatal prednisone exposure with different doses and time. J Ovarian Res 2023; 16:71. [PMID: 37038227 PMCID: PMC10088227 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-023-01148-8] [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: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 04/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prednisone is one of the most used synthetic glucocorticoids during pregnancy. Epidemiological investigations suggested that prenatal prednisone therapy could affect fetal development, but systematic studies on its effects on ovarian development and the "toxic effect window" remained scarce. METHODS In this study, by simulating clinical application characteristics, Kunming mice were given prednisone by oral gavage with different doses (0.25 or 1.0 mg/kg·d) or at different time gestational days (GD) (GD0-9, GD10-18, or GD0-18). Blood and ovaries of fetal mice were collected on GD18, and the serum estradiol level and the related function indexes of ovarian granulosa cells and oocytes were detected. RESULTS Compared with the control group, prenatal prednisone exposure (PPE) induced pathological injury and enhanced cell proliferation in fetal mice ovary. Furthermore, the expression of steroid synthesis functional genes in pre-granulosa cells, the oocyte function markers, and developmentally related genes was enhanced with different doses or at different time of PPE. The Hippo signaling was activated in the fetal ovary of PPE groups. The above changes were most significant in the low or high-dose and full-term PPE groups. CONCLUSION PPE caused various cell developmental toxicity in the fetal ovary, especially in the low or high-dose, full-term exposure groups. The potential mechanism might be related to the activation of the Hippo signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Huang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
- Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Developmentally Originated Disease, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Tiancheng Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
- Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Developmentally Originated Disease, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Yating Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
- Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Developmentally Originated Disease, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Yuanzhen Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
- Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Developmentally Originated Disease, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Xingjiang Yu
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
| | - Dan Xu
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China.
- Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Developmentally Originated Disease, Wuhan, 430071, China.
| | - Hui Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China.
- Department of Pharmacology, Wuhan University School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan, 430071, China.
- Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Developmentally Originated Disease, Wuhan, 430071, China.
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23
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Wang C, Sun H, Davis JS, Wang X, Huo L, Sun N, Huang Q, Lv X, Wang C, He C, He C, Zhou Y, Wu J, Yang L, Hua G. FHL2 deficiency impairs follicular development and fertility by attenuating EGF/EGFR/YAP signaling in ovarian granulosa cells. Cell Death Dis 2023; 14:239. [PMID: 37015904 PMCID: PMC10073124 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-023-05759-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Revised: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/06/2023]
Abstract
Female subfertility is an increasing reproductive issue worldwide, which is partially related to abnormal ovarian follicular development. Granulosa cells (GCs), by providing the necessary physical support and microenvironment for follicular development, play critical roles in maintaining female fertility. We previously showed that ectopic expression of four and a half LIM domains 2 (FHL2) promoted ovarian granulosa cell tumor progression. However, its function in follicular development and fertility remains unknown. Here, we confirmed that FHL2 is highly expressed in human and mouse ovaries. FHL2 immunosignals were predominantly expressed in ovarian GCs. A Fhl2 knockout (KO) mouse model was generated to examine its roles in follicular development and fertility. Compared with wildtype, knockout of Fhl2 significantly decreased female litter size and offspring number. Furthermore, Fhl2 deficiency reduced ovarian size and impaired follicular development. RNA-sequencing analysis of GCs isolated from either KO or WT mice revealed that, Fhl2 deletion impaired multiple biological functions and signaling pathways, such as Ovarian Putative Early Atresia Granulosa Cell, ErbB, Hippo/YAP, etc. In vitro studies confirmed that FHL2 silencing suppressed GCs growth and EGF-induced GCs proliferation, while its overexpression promoted GC proliferation and decreased apoptosis. Mechanistic studies indicated that FHL2, via forming complexes with transcriptional factors AP-1 or NF-κB, regulated Egf and Egfr expression, respectively. Besides, FHL2 depletion decreased YAP1 expression, especially the active form of YAP1 (nuclear YAP1) in GCs of growing follicles. EGF, serving as an autocrine/paracrine factor, not only induced FHL2 expression and nuclear accumulation, but also stimulated YAP1 expression and activation. Collectively, our study suggests that FHL2 interacts with EGFR and Hippo/YAP signaling to regulate follicular development and maintain fertility. This study illuminates a novel mechanism for follicular development and a potential therapeutic target to address subfertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Wang
- Key Lab of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei province, 430070, China
| | - Hui Sun
- Key Lab of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei province, 430070, China
| | - John S Davis
- Olson Center for Women's Health, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA
- VA Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System, Omaha, NE, 68105, USA
| | - Xiaojie Wang
- Key Lab of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei province, 430070, China
| | - Lijun Huo
- Key Lab of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei province, 430070, China
| | - Nan Sun
- Key Lab of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei province, 430070, China
| | - Qianzhi Huang
- Key Lab of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei province, 430070, China
| | - Xiangmin Lv
- Vincent Center for Reproductive Biology, Vincent Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
| | - Cheng Wang
- Vincent Center for Reproductive Biology, Vincent Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
| | - Chunbo He
- Olson Center for Women's Health, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA
| | - Changjiu He
- Key Lab of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei province, 430070, China
| | - Yang Zhou
- Key Lab of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei province, 430070, China
| | - Jiyun Wu
- Key Lab of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei province, 430070, China
| | - Liguo Yang
- Key Lab of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei province, 430070, China
| | - Guohua Hua
- Key Lab of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei province, 430070, China.
- National Center for International Research on Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction (NCIRAGBR); Frontiers Science Center for Animal Breeding and Sustainable Production, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, PR China.
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24
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Clark KL, Davis JS. Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) promotes follicular growth and alters expression of genes that regulate the cell cycle and the Hippo pathway in cultured neonatal mouse ovaries. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2022; 454:116253. [PMID: 36152675 PMCID: PMC10416762 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2022.116253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2022] [Revised: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) is a synthetic chemical resistant to biodegradation and is environmentally persistent. PFOA is found in many consumer products and is a major source of water contamination. While PFOA has been identified as a contaminant of concern for reproductive health, little is known about the effects of PFOA on ovarian follicular development and growth. Recent evidence indicates that the Hippo pathway is an important regulator of ovarian physiology. Here, we investigated the effects of PFOA on ovarian folliculogenesis during the neonatal period of development and potential impacts on the Hippo signaling pathway. Post-natal day 4 (PND4) neonatal ovaries from CD-1 mice were cultured with control medium (DMSO <0.01% final concentration) or PFOA (50 μM or 100 μM). After 96 h, ovaries were collected for histological analysis of folliculogenesis, gene and protein expression, and immunostaining. Results revealed that PFOA (50 μM) increased the number of secondary follicles, which was accompanied by increases in mRNA transcripts and protein of marker of proliferation marker Ki67 with no impacts on apoptosis markers Bax, Bcl2, or cleaved caspase-3. PFOA treatment (50 μM and 100 μM) stimulated an upregulation of transcripts for cell cycle regulators Ccna2, Ccnb2, Ccne1, Ccnd1, Ccnd2, and Ccnd3. PFOA also increased abundance of transcripts of Hippo pathway components Mst1/2, Lats1, Mob1b, Yap1, and Taz, as well as downstream Hippo pathway targets Areg, Amotl2, and Cyr61, although it decreased transcripts for anti-apoptotic Birc5. Inhibition of the Hippo pathway effector YAP1 with Verteporfin resulted in the attenuation of PFOA-induced follicular growth and proliferation. Together, these findings suggest that occupationally relevant levels of PFOA (50 μM) can stimulate follicular activation in neonatal ovaries potentially through activation of the Hippo pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kendra L Clark
- Olson Center for Women's Health, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA; Veterans Affairs Nebraska Western Iowa Health Care System, 4101 Woolworth Ave, Omaha, NE 68105, USA
| | - John S Davis
- Olson Center for Women's Health, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA; Veterans Affairs Nebraska Western Iowa Health Care System, 4101 Woolworth Ave, Omaha, NE 68105, USA.
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25
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The Effect of Stimulation Protocols (GnRH Agonist vs. Antagonist) on the Activity of mTOR and Hippo Pathways of Ovarian Granulosa Cells and Its Potential Correlation with the Outcomes of In Vitro Fertilization: A Hypothesis. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11206131. [PMID: 36294452 PMCID: PMC9605084 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11206131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Revised: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH) is essential for the success of in vitro fertilization (IVF). Evidence showing the comparison of different COH protocols remains predominantly of low certainty and derives from unspecified infertile and highly heterogeneous populations. Thus, personalized approaches to examine the response of patients to the various COH protocols need to be investigated. Data from in vitro and animal studies have identified the mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) and Hippo signaling pathways play a key role in follicular homeostasis and oocyte quality. To be specific, current data indicate the controlled activation of mTOR and the controlled inhibition of the Hippo pathway within the ovarian granulosa cells (GC). Both are reported to lead to a nurturing follicular microenvironment, increase oocyte quality, and potentially improve reproductive outcomes. As intracellular markers, phosphorylated/unphosphorylated levels of the pathways’ main downstream mediators could be included among the candidate “personalized” predictors of patients’ response to COH protocols and final IVF outcomes. Based on these hypotheses, we make a preliminary attempt to investigate their validity: We propose a prospective cohort study to compare the levels of certain phosphorylated/unphosphorylated components of the investigated pathways (mTOR, ribosomal protein S6 kinase beta-1 (p70S6K-1), yes-associated protein-1 (YAP-1), and transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ)) within the follicular fluid-isolated GC between women undergoing gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonist/“short” protocols and those receiving GnRH agonist/“long 21” protocols. A case-control design comparing these levels between women achieving pregnancy and those who did not is further planned. Additional analyses addressing the population’s expected heterogeneity are planned after the completion of the pilot phase, during which 100 participants undergoing IVF are intended to be recruited. At this stage, these hypotheses are solely based on in vitro/animal data, and thus, similar studies on humans in this respect are necessary for the investigation of their potential validity.
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