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Cheng J, Wei Y, Zhao Z, Xing Q, Gao Z, Cheng J, Yu C, Pan Y, Yang Y, Shi D, Deng Y. MiR-29c-5p regulates the function of buffalo granulosa cells to induce follicular atresia by targeting INHBA. Theriogenology 2023; 205:50-62. [PMID: 37086585 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.04.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Revised: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 04/24/2023]
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are involved in many physiological processes such as signal transduction, cell proliferation and apoptosis. Many studies have shown that miRNAs can regulate the process of follicular development. Our previous studies found that the expression of miR-29c-5p in buffalo atretic follicles was much higher than that in healthy follicles, suggesting that this miRNA may participate in the process of buffalo follicular atresia. In this study, we aim to explore to the role and molecular mechanisms of miR-29c-5p on the functions of buffalo granulosa cells (GCs). GCs cultured in vitro were transfected with miR-29c-5p mimics and its inhibitor, respectively, and it was found that the mimics significantly increased the apoptotic rate of GCs. They also inhibited the proliferation of GCs and the secretion of steroid hormones. The effect of the inhibitor was opposite to that of the mimics. MiR-29c-5p was subsequently shown to target the inhibin subunit beta A, (INHBA). Overexpression of INHBA could promote the production of activin A and inhibin A, and then reverse the effect of miR-29c-5p on buffalo GCs. In conclusion, these results suggest that miR-29c-5p promotes apoptosis and inhibits proliferation and steroidogenesis by targeting INHBA in buffalo GCs. This may ultimately promote atresia in buffalo follicles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiarui Cheng
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding and Disease Control, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, PR China
| | - Yaochang Wei
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding and Disease Control, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, PR China
| | - Ziwen Zhao
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding and Disease Control, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, PR China
| | - Qinghua Xing
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding and Disease Control, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, PR China
| | - Ziyan Gao
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding and Disease Control, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, PR China
| | - Juanru Cheng
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding and Disease Control, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, PR China
| | - Chengqi Yu
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding and Disease Control, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, PR China
| | - Yu Pan
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding and Disease Control, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, PR China
| | - Yanyan Yang
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding and Disease Control, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, PR China
| | - Deshun Shi
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding and Disease Control, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, PR China
| | - Yanfei Deng
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding and Disease Control, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, PR China.
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Review: Role and regulatory mechanism of inhibin in animal reproductive system. Theriogenology 2023; 202:10-20. [PMID: 36878034 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.02.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Revised: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/03/2023]
Abstract
Inhibin (INH) is a glycoprotein hormone secreted by the gonads that inhibit the synthesis and secretion of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). Increasing evidence indicates that INH plays a significant role in the development of the reproductive system including follicle development, ovulation rate, corpus luteum formation and ablation, steroid hormone synthesis and spermatogenesis, subsequently affecting the reproductive capacity of animals such as litter size and egg production. There are currently three main views on how INH inhibits FSH synthesis and secretion: influencing the activity of adenylate cyclase, the expression of follicle-stimulating hormone receptor or gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptor, and the competition system of inhibin-activin. This review discusses the current findings on the structure, function, and mechanism of action of INH in the reproductive system of animals.
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Bao Y, Li X, El-Samahy MA, Yang H, Wang Z, Yang F, Yao X, Wang F. Exploration the role of INHBA in Hu sheep granulosa cells using RNA-Seq. Theriogenology 2023; 197:198-208. [PMID: 36525859 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2022.12.006] [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: 03/30/2022] [Revised: 11/26/2022] [Accepted: 12/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Activin/inhibin is an important factor for the fecundity of Hu sheep, and it is involved in follicular development in ovaries. Inhibin subunit beta A (INHBA) participates in the synthesis of activin A and inhibin A. In this study, we also noted a positive correlation between INHBA level and the secretion of both activin A and inhibin A in culture medium. Nevertheless, both knockdown and overexpression of INHBA downregulated the expression of Inhibin Subunit Alpha (INHA). Based on RNA-Sequencing, we further examined the effect and molecular mechanism of INHBA knockdown in GCs on mRNA expression. A total of 1,687 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified (Fold change ≥ 2; False-discovory-rates (FDR) ≤ 0.01), of which 602 genes were upregulated and 1,087 genes were downregulated in the INHBA interference group compared with the control groups. Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment indicated that these DEGs were mainly involved in the regulation of cell cycle, protein serine/threonine kinase activity, and actin cytoskeleton reorganization. Moreover, DEGs were significantly enriched in 40 Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways, including P53, progesterone-mediated oocyte maturation, and PI3K-AKT signaling pathways. We also noted a positive correlation between INHBA level and many PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway-related genes at the gene or/and protein expression. Overall, this study may contribute to a better understanding of the roles of INHBA on GCs of prolific sheep, as well as the molecular effect of low INHBA expression on GCs, clarifying some reproductive failures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongjin Bao
- Hu Sheep Academy, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China; Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Xiaodan Li
- Hu Sheep Academy, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China; Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - M A El-Samahy
- Hu Sheep Academy, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China; Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China; Animal Production Research Institute, ARC, Ministry of Agriculture, Giza, Egypt
| | - Hua Yang
- Hu Sheep Academy, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China; Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Zhibo Wang
- Hu Sheep Academy, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China; Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Fan Yang
- Hu Sheep Academy, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China; Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Xiaolei Yao
- Hu Sheep Academy, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China; Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Feng Wang
- Hu Sheep Academy, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China; Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China.
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DNA Hypomethylation Is Associated with the Overexpression of INHBA in Upper Tract Urothelial Carcinoma. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23042072. [PMID: 35216189 PMCID: PMC8877459 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23042072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Revised: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Urothelial carcinoma includes upper urinary tract cancer (UTUC) and bladder cancer. Although nephroureterectomy is the standard treatment for UTUC, the recurrence rate is approximately half and the tumor is associated with poor prognoses. Metastases are the most devastating and lethal clinical situation in urothelial carcinoma. Despite its clinical importance, few potential diagnostic biomarkers are suitable for early UC detection. We compared high-stage/high-grade urothelial carcinoma tissues to adjacent normal urothelial tissues using methyl-CpG binding domain protein capture for genome-wide DNA methylation analysis. Based on our findings, inhibin βA (INHBA) might be associated with carcinogenesis and metastasis. Further, clinical UC specimens had significant INHBA hypomethylation based on pyrosequencing. INHBA was detected by real-time PCR and immunohistochemistry staining, and was found to be highly expressed in clinical tissues and cell lines of urothelial carcinoma. Further, INHBA depletion was found to significantly reduce BFTC-909 cell growth and migration by INHBA-specific small interfering RNA. Interestingly, a positive correlation was found between SMAD binding and extracellular structure organization with INHBA using gene set enrichment analysis and gene ontology analysis. Together, these results are the first evidence of INHBA promoter hypomethylation and INHBA overexpression in UTUC. INHBA may affect urothelial carcinoma migration by reorganizing the extracellular matrix through the SMAD pathway.
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Yu X, Qiao T, Hua L, Liu S, Zhao X, Lv C, Zhao X, Wang J, Han L, Yang L, Liang A. Synergistic Regulatory Effect of Inhibin and Anti-Müllerian Hormone on Fertility of Mice. Front Vet Sci 2021; 8:747619. [PMID: 34820437 PMCID: PMC8607300 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.747619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Inhibin (INH) and anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) are essential in ovarian folliculogenesis and play an inhibitory role in mammalian fertility. However, the interactive effect of INH and AMH on the animal reproduction remains unknown. This study aimed to determine the possible interaction and synergy between INH and AMH in steroidogenesis by primary granulosa cells, and investigate their synergistic effect on fertility in mice. In in vitro granulosa cell culture system, we found that the treatment of either INHA or AMH had no significant effect on basal estradiol and progesterone production, whereas both significantly attenuated FSH-induced steroid hormone secretion. Importantly, combined treatment with INHA and AMH showed additive inhibitory effect on FSH-induced estradiol and progesterone production, accompanying a significant downregulation in the expression of FSH-stimulated CYP19A1, HSD3B, CYP11A1, StAR transcripts. The interrelationship of INH and AMH combinations was further investigated through active immune neutralization strategy. Female mice were immunized against INH and AMH eukaryotic expression plasmids, and the litter size was recorded after successfully mating. We observed that both INH and AMH plasmids were able to induce either anti-AMH or anti-INH antibodies in the immunized mice. In comparison with the control group, co-immunization with INH and AMH plasmids induced higher levels of estradiol, resulting in more litter size. Moreover, there was no significant difference on the offspring's weight between each group. Collectively, the results of the present study suggest that INH and AMH have synergistic effect in regulating steroidogenesis and the litter size in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue Yu
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China.,Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biophysics, Institute of Biophysics, Dezhou University, Dezhou, China
| | - Tong Qiao
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Liping Hua
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Shuanghang Liu
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Xinzhe Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Ce Lv
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Xuhong Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Li Han
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Liguo Yang
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Aixin Liang
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
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Bao Y, Yao X, Li X, Ei-Samahy MA, Yang H, Liang Y, Liu Z, Wang F. INHBA transfection regulates proliferation, apoptosis and hormone synthesis in sheep granulosa cells. Theriogenology 2021; 175:111-122. [PMID: 34537472 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2021.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2021] [Revised: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Inhibin subunit beta A (INHBA) participates in the synthesis of inhibin A, activin A and activin AB. Here we investigated the effect and molecular mechanism of INHBA on proliferation, apoptosis and hormone synthesis in sheep granulosa cells (GCs) using in vitro transfection. We first noticed that INHBA expression increased with follicle diameter and was widely distributed in ovarian tissue. The proliferation rate of GCs was significantly increased and decreased with overexpression and silence of INHBA, respectively, compared with the negative controls. INHBA transfection affected GC proliferation and apoptosis, regulating the expression of many cell cycle-related and apoptosis-related genes. INHBA overexpression significantly decreased activin and estradiol secretion while increasing inhibin and progesterone secretion. The expression of follicle-stimulating hormone beta subunit was significantly decreased and increased with INHBA overexpression and knockdown, respectively. Notably, silence of INHBA inhibited the expression of many transforming growth factor beta-related genes. Overall, the functional molecule of INHBA gene may be associated with follicular development via regulating proliferation, apoptosis and folliculogenesis-related hormone secretion of sheep GCs. In addition, our findings may contribute to a better understanding of the law of follicular development and thus improve the reproductive performance of female animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongjin Bao
- Hu Sheep Academy, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China; Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Xiaolei Yao
- Hu Sheep Academy, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China; Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Xiaodan Li
- Hu Sheep Academy, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China; Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - M A Ei-Samahy
- Hu Sheep Academy, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China; Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Hua Yang
- Hu Sheep Academy, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China; Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Yaxu Liang
- Hu Sheep Academy, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China; Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Zifei Liu
- Hu Sheep Academy, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China; Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Feng Wang
- Hu Sheep Academy, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China; Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China.
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Ozturk M, Fidan U, Ceyhan T, Ozturk O, Karasahin E, Ozcan L, Korkmaz C. Double daily doses of cetrorelix may raise follicular phase progesterone more compared to single doses in poor ovarian response patients. J Gynecol Obstet Hum Reprod 2021; 50:102223. [PMID: 34509694 DOI: 10.1016/j.jogoh.2021.102223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Revised: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 09/05/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE There is evidence that follicular phase progesterone rise [FPPR] adversely affects fresh in vitro fertilization [IVF] cycles. A single daily dose of cetrorelix has been used to prevent early luteinizing Hormone (LH) surge. We speculated that doubling the daily dose might have a positive effect in patients who have early LH surges despite receiving the single daily dose treatment. However, a double daily dose of cetrorelix seems to cause FPPR in poor ovarian response (POR) patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS On human chorionic gonadotropin [hCG] injection days, the progesterone levels of POR patients who received a single daily dose of cetrorelix (group 1, n = 59) were compared with progesterone levels of the patients who received a double daily dose of cetrorelix (group 2, n = 75). The two groups had statistically similar demographic data. The patients who had FPPR were detected, and a comparison of progesterone levels, using 0.8, 1.0, and 1.2 [ng/mL] of progesterone as cut-off levels, was made between patients of both groups. RESULTS FPPR patients in group 2 had significantly higher progesterone levels during hCG day, contrary to expectations. When progesterone cut-off levels of 0.8, 1.0, and 1.2 [ng/mL] were used for group 1 patients, 15.3%, 13.6%, and 6.8% of the patients developed FPPR, respectively When the progesterone cut-off levels of 0.8, 1.0, and 1.2 [ng/mL] were used for group 2, the results detected were 45.3%, 30.7%, and 21.3%, respectively. A significant statistical difference in progesterone levels was observed between the groups. CONCLUSION While the double daily dose of cetrorelix was initially thought to more effectively suppress early LH rise by some authors, we have seen that it increases the FPPR more when compared to a single daily dose regime. We suggest using frozen cycles instead of fresh cycles in order to have better endometrial receptivity in patients who seem to benefit from higher daily doses of cetrorelix.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mustafa Ozturk
- Helth Science Universty Gulhane Medical Faculty, IVF Center, Ankara, Turkey; Helth Science Universty Gulhane Medical Faculty, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ankara, Turkey.
| | - Ulas Fidan
- Helth Science Universty Gulhane Medical Faculty, IVF Center, Ankara, Turkey; Helth Science Universty Gulhane Medical Faculty, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Temel Ceyhan
- Helth Science Universty Gulhane Medical Faculty, IVF Center, Ankara, Turkey; Helth Science Universty Gulhane Medical Faculty, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Ozlem Ozturk
- Helth Science Universty Gulhane Medical Faculty, Medical Biochemistry, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Emre Karasahin
- Helth Science Universty Gulhane Medical Faculty, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Lale Ozcan
- Helth Science Universty Gulhane Medical Faculty, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Cem Korkmaz
- Helth Science Universty Gulhane Medical Faculty, IVF Center, Ankara, Turkey
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Paulini F, Melo EO. Effects of Growth and Differentiation Factor 9 and Bone Morphogenetic Protein 15 overexpression on the steroidogenic metabolism in bovine granulosa cells in vitro. Reprod Domest Anim 2021; 56:837-847. [PMID: 33683747 DOI: 10.1111/rda.13923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2021] [Revised: 03/04/2021] [Accepted: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Granulosa cells (GCs) play important roles in the regulation of ovarian functions, and in vitro culture is a relevant model for the study of steroidogenesis in ovarian follicles. Thus, growth factors secreted by the oocyte, like Growth and Differentiation Factor 9 (GDF9) and Bone Morphogenetic Protein 15 (BMP15), play an important part in the luteinization of granulosa cells. The aim of this work was to express GDF9 and BMP15 genes in bovine GCs in vitro and evaluate their effects on the luteinization process. Samples of culture medium and GCs transfected with GDF9 and BMP15 were obtained for 21 consecutive days to analyse the steroidogenic hormones' concentration (progesterone (P4 ) and estradiol (E2 )) and the expression of STAR, GDF9 and BMP15 and their respective receptors. The results demonstrated an inhibitory effect of GDF9 and BMPF15 on P4 secretion in bovine GCs cultured in vitro. Moreover, our study demonstrated the entire expression of their respective receptors (TGFBR1, BMPR1B and BMPR2) and the inhibition of the steroidogenic marker, STAR gene. This work sheds light on a novel biological function of BMP15 and GDF9 in bovine GCs physiology, which could elucidate a non-described biological role for GDF9 and BMP15 in bovine granulosa cells' metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernanda Paulini
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Brasília, Brasília, Brazil
| | - Eduardo O Melo
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasília, Brazil.,Postgraduate Program in Biotechnology, University of Tocantins-UFT, Gurupi, Brazil
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Bouzoni E, Perakakis N, Mantzoros CS. Circulating profile of Activin-Follistatin-Inhibin Axis in women with hypothalamic amenorrhea in response to leptin treatment. Metabolism 2020; 113:154392. [PMID: 33045195 PMCID: PMC7680407 DOI: 10.1016/j.metabol.2020.154392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2020] [Revised: 09/28/2020] [Accepted: 10/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic energy deficiency observed in women that exercise strenuously affects reproductive function, often leading to hypothalamic amenorrhea (HA). In such conditions, hypoleptinemia and robust changes in the Activin-Follistatin-Inhibin Axis (AFI) are observed. Treatment with leptin restores menstruation in many (60% responders) but not all (40% non-responders) women, suggesting that leptin is not the only regulator of reproductive function related to energy balance. In this work, we aimed to identify differences in hormonal profiles between leptin responders and non-responders among women with HA, with particular focus on the AFI axis. METHODS AFI axis and reproductive hormones (LH, FSH, Estradiol, ΑΜΗ) were measured in blood in: a) An open-label interventional study, b) a randomized placebo-controlled trial, both investigating responders versus non-responders/women with HA treated with leptin. RESULTS Women with HA that responded to leptin treatment have higher circulating levels/peak values of Inhibin A, Estradiol (E2), higher LH/FSH ratio and a trend to lower AMH compared with non-responders. CONCLUSIONS Components of the AFI axis are associated with improvement of reproductive function in women with HA treated with leptin. ΑΜΗ may serve as a marker of ovarian recovery under HA treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eirini Bouzoni
- Division of Endocrinology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center/Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Nikolaos Perakakis
- Division of Endocrinology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center/Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Christos S Mantzoros
- Division of Endocrinology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center/Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Section of Endocrinology, VA Boston Healthcare System, Jamaica Plain, MA, USA
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Lu H, Zhao C, Zhu B, Zhang Z, Ge W. Loss of Inhibin Advances Follicle Activation and Female Puberty Onset but Blocks Oocyte Maturation in Zebrafish. Endocrinology 2020; 161:5921142. [PMID: 33045050 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqaa184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 10/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Inhibin was first characterized in mammals as a gonadal dimeric protein that inhibited pituitary follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) secretion. As in mammals, the inhibin-specific α subunit (INHA/Inha/inha) has also been characterized in teleosts; however, its functions and physiological importance in fish reproduction remain unknown. Using CRISPR/Cas9 method, we generated an inha-deficient zebrafish line and analyzed its reproductive performance. As expected, pituitary expression of fshb increased significantly in both the young and the adult inha mutant. The expression of lhb also increased in the mutant, but only in sexually mature adults. Interestingly, the expression of activin βA (inhbaa) increased significantly in both the ovary and the testis of inha mutant, and the expression of ovarian aromatase (cyp19a1a) also increased dramatically in the mutant ovary. The juvenile female mutant showed clear signs of early follicle activation or precocious puberty onset. However, the adult female mutant was infertile with follicles arrested at the full-grown stage without final oocyte maturation and ovulation. Although follicle growth was normal overall in the mutant, the size and distribution of yolk granules in oocytes were distinct and some follicles showed granulosa cell hypertrophy. In contrast to females, inha-null males showed normal spermatogenesis and fertility. As reported in mammals, we also found sporadic tumor formation in inha mutants. Taken together, our study not only confirmed some conserved roles of inhibin across vertebrates, such as inhibition of FSH biosynthesis and tumor formation, but also revealed novel aspects of inhibin functions such as disruption of folliculogenesis and female infertility but no obvious involvement in spermatogenesis in fish.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huijie Lu
- Centre of Reproduction, Development and Aging (CRDA), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau, China
| | - Cheng Zhao
- Centre of Reproduction, Development and Aging (CRDA), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau, China
| | - Bo Zhu
- Centre of Reproduction, Development and Aging (CRDA), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau, China
| | - Zhiwei Zhang
- Centre of Reproduction, Development and Aging (CRDA), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau, China
| | - Wei Ge
- Centre of Reproduction, Development and Aging (CRDA), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau, China
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Cui Z, Liu L, Zhu Q, Wang Y, Yin H, Li D, Tian Y, Shu G, Zhao X. Inhibin A regulates follicular development via hormone secretion and granulosa cell behaviors in laying hens. Cell Tissue Res 2020; 381:337-350. [PMID: 32377876 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-020-03207-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2019] [Accepted: 03/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Inhibin A regulates follicular development, and its expression level is related to physiological activities, such as the recruitment, selection, and predominance during follicular development. Therefore, examining inhibin A and its regulatory effects on the reproductive performance of poultry is crucial. In this study, we measured the mRNA and protein abundances of INHA and INHBA in the chicken reproductive system and determined the hormone secretion and apoptosis of follicular granulosa cells (GCs) after being treated with inhibin A protein, and flow cytometry was performed to analyze GC apoptosis in INHA-specific small RNA interference (siRNA). We detected that INHA and INHBA were mainly expressed in chicken follicles. The highest INHA mRNA abundance was found in the fifth largest preovulatory follicle (F5) (P < 0.05). INHBA mRNA expression in the largest preovulatory follicle (F1) was significantly higher than those in other follicles (P < 0.05). Similar results were found for INHA and INHBA protein expression in those follicles (P < 0.05). Treatment with inhibin A protein increased the activity of GCs in a dose-dependent manner (P < 0.05), which was characterized by decreased gene expression of pro-apoptotic factors Bax and Caspase-3 (P < 0.05) and increased expression of proliferation genes Bcl-2 and PCNA (P < 0.05). Additionally, inhibin A significantly increased the secretion of progesterone and estradiol (P < 0.05). RNAi-mediated knockdown of INHA increased apoptosis in GCs via a Caspase-3-dependent mitochondrial pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhifu Cui
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 611130, China
| | - Lingbin Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Qing Zhu
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 611130, China
| | - Yan Wang
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 611130, China
| | - Huadong Yin
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 611130, China
| | - Diyan Li
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 611130, China
| | - Yaofu Tian
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 611130, China
| | - Gang Shu
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 611130, China
| | - Xiaoling Zhao
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 611130, China.
- Department of Animal Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, Apt 211, Huimin Road, Wenjiang District, Chengdu, 611130, Sichuan Province, China.
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Almughlliq FB, Koh YQ, Peiris HN, Vaswani K, Holland O, Meier S, Roche JR, Burke CR, Crookenden MA, Arachchige BJ, Reed S, Mitchell MD. Circulating exosomes may identify biomarkers for cows at risk for metabolic dysfunction. Sci Rep 2019; 9:13879. [PMID: 31554846 PMCID: PMC6761115 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-50244-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2019] [Accepted: 09/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Disease susceptibility of dairy cows is greatest during the transition from pregnancy to lactation. Circulating exosomes may provide biomarkers to detect at-risk cows to enhance health and productivity. From 490 cows, animals at high- (n = 20) or low-risk (n = 20) of transition-related diseases were identified using plasma non-esterified fatty acid and β-hydroxybutyrate concentrations and liver triacylglyceride concentrations during the two weeks post-calving. We isolated circulating exosomes from plasma of dairy cows at low-risk (LR-EXO) and high-risk (HR-EXO), and analyzed their proteome profiles to determine markers for metabolic dysfunction. We evaluated the effects of these exosomes on eicosanoid pathway expression by bovine endometrial stromal (bCSC) and epithelial (bEEL) cells. HR-EXO had significantly lower yield of circulating exosomes compared with LR-EXO, and unique proteins were identified in HR-EXO and LR-EXO. Exposure to LR-EXO or HR-EXO differentially regulated eicosanoid gene expression and production in bCSC and bEEL cells. In bCSC, LR-EXO exposure increased PGE2 and PGD2 production, whereas HR-EXO exposure increased PTGS2 gene expression. In bEEL, HR-EXO exposure caused a decrease in PGE2, PGF2α, PGD2, PGFM and TXB2 production. The unique presence of serpin A3-7, coiled-coil domain containing 88A and inhibin/activin β A chain in HR-EXO, indicates potential biomarkers for cows at-risk for metabolic diseases. Our results are in line with the health status of the cow indicating a potential diagnostic role for exosomes in enhancing cows’ health and fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatema B Almughlliq
- University of Queensland Centre for Clinical Research, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, 4029, Australia
| | - Yong Q Koh
- University of Queensland Centre for Clinical Research, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, 4029, Australia
| | - Hassendrini N Peiris
- Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation - Centre for Children's Health Research, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, 4101, Australia
| | - Kanchan Vaswani
- Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation - Centre for Children's Health Research, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, 4101, Australia
| | - Olivia Holland
- Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation - Centre for Children's Health Research, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, 4101, Australia
| | - Susanne Meier
- DairyNZ Ltd., Private Bag 3221, Hamilton, 3240, New Zealand
| | - John R Roche
- DairyNZ Ltd., Private Bag 3221, Hamilton, 3240, New Zealand.,Ministry for Primary Industries- Manatū Ahu Matua, Pastoral House, Wellington, 6140, New Zealand
| | - Chris R Burke
- DairyNZ Ltd., Private Bag 3221, Hamilton, 3240, New Zealand
| | | | - Buddhika J Arachchige
- University of Queensland Centre for Clinical Research, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, 4029, Australia
| | - Sarah Reed
- University of Queensland Centre for Clinical Research, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, 4029, Australia
| | - Murray D Mitchell
- Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation - Centre for Children's Health Research, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, 4101, Australia.
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Wetzel DL, Reynolds JE, Bonde RK, Schloesser RW, Schwierzke-Wade L, Roudebush WE. Enhancing reproductive assessments of the Florida manatee Trichechus manatus latirostris by establishing optimal time period and inhibin B baseline concentrations. ENDANGER SPECIES RES 2019. [DOI: 10.3354/esr00972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
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14
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Kaponis A, Chronopoulou E, Decavalas G. The curious case of premature luteinization. J Assist Reprod Genet 2018; 35:1723-1740. [PMID: 30051348 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-018-1264-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2018] [Accepted: 07/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Premature luteinization (PL) affects 12.3-46.7% of fresh in vitro fertilization cycles, and there is accumulating evidence confirming its negative effect on success rates. However, despite its clinical significance, PL is poorly understood and defined. This narrative review aims to provide a fresh look at the phenomenon of PL by summarizing the existing evidence and re-evaluating fundamental issues. METHODS A thorough electronic search was conducted covering the period from 1978 until January 2018 in PubMed, Embase, and Medline databases, and references of relevant studies were cross-checked. Meeting proceedings of the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology and the American Society for Reproductive Medicine were also hand searched. RESULTS In the curious case of PL, one should go back to the beginning and re-consider every step of the way. The pathogenesis, definition, measurement methods, clinical implications, and management strategies are discussed in detail, highlighting controversies and offering "food for thought" for future directions. CONCLUSIONS Authors need to speak the same language when studying PL in order to facilitate comparisons. The terminology, progesterone cut-off, measurement methods and days of measurement should be standardized and globally accepted; otherwise, there can be no scientific dialog. Future research should focus on specific patient profiles that may require a tailored approach. Progesterone measurements throughout the follicular phase possibly depict the progesterone exposure better than an isolated measurement on the day of hCG. Adequately powered randomized controlled trials should confirm which the best prevention and management plan of PL is, before introducing any strategy into clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Apostolos Kaponis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Patras University School of Medicine, General University Hospital of Patras, Rio, 26504, Patras, Greece
| | - Elpiniki Chronopoulou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Patras University School of Medicine, General University Hospital of Patras, Rio, 26504, Patras, Greece.
| | - George Decavalas
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Patras University School of Medicine, General University Hospital of Patras, Rio, 26504, Patras, Greece
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15
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Effects of silencing INHα gene by RNAi on the mRNA expressions of StAR, FST, INHβB, and FSHR genes in cultured sheep granulosa cells. Small Rumin Res 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2017.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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16
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Ginther OJ. Systemic and intrafollicular components of follicle selection in mares. Domest Anim Endocrinol 2017; 59:116-133. [PMID: 28113119 DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2016.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2016] [Revised: 12/06/2016] [Accepted: 12/10/2016] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Mares are superb models for study of follicle selection owing to similarities between mares and women in relative follicle diameters at specific events during the follicular wave and follicle accessibility for experimental sampling and manipulation. Usually, only 1 major follicular wave with a dominant follicle (DF) greater than 30 mm develops during the 22 to 24 d of the equine estrous cycle and is termed the primary or ovulatory wave. A major secondary wave occasionally (25%) develops early in the cycle. Follicles of the primary wave emerge at 6 mm on day 10 or 11 (day 0 = ovulation). The 2 largest follicles begin to deviate in diameter on day 16 when the future DF and largest subordinate follicle (SF) are 23 mm and 20 mm, respectively. The deviation process begins the day before diameter deviation as indicated in the future DF but not in the future SF by (1) increase in prominence of an anechoic layer and vascular perfusion of the wall and (2) increase in follicular-fluid concentrations of IGF1, vascular endothelial growth factor, estradiol, and inhibin-A. A systemic component of the deviation process is represented by suppression of circulating FSH from secretion of inhibin and estradiol from the developing DF. Production of inhibin is stimulated by IGF1 and LH, and estradiol is stimulated by LH and not by IGF1 in mares. A local intrafollicular component involves the production of IGF1, which apparently increases the responsiveness of the future DF to FSH. The roles of the IGF system have been well studied in mares, but the effect of IGF1 on increasing the sensitivity of the follicle cells to FSH is based primarily on studies in other species. The greater response of the future DF than the SF to the low concentrations of FSH is the essence of selection. During the common growth phase that precedes deviation, diameter of the 2 largest follicles increases in parallel on average when normalized to emergence or retrospectively to deviation. Study of individual waves indicates that (1) the 2 follicles change ranks (relative diameters) during the common growth phase in about 30% of primary waves and (2) after ablation of 1, 2, or 3 of the largest follicles at the expected beginning of deviation, the next largest retained follicle becomes the DF indicating that several follicles have the capacity for dominance; therefore, it is proposed that the deviation process represents the entire mechanism of follicle selection in mares.
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Affiliation(s)
- O J Ginther
- Eutheria Foundation, Cross Plains, WI 53528, USA; Department of Pathobiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA.
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17
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Effect of alpha lipoic acid on in vitro development of bovine secondary preantral follicles. Theriogenology 2017; 88:124-130. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2016.09.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2016] [Revised: 09/05/2016] [Accepted: 09/06/2016] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
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18
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Namwanje M, Brown CW. Activins and Inhibins: Roles in Development, Physiology, and Disease. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Biol 2016; 8:cshperspect.a021881. [PMID: 27328872 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a021881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 149] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Since their original discovery as regulators of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) secretion and erythropoiesis, the TGF-β family members activin and inhibin have been shown to participate in a variety of biological processes, from the earliest stages of embryonic development to highly specialized functions in terminally differentiated cells and tissues. Herein, we present the history, structures, signaling mechanisms, regulation, and biological processes in which activins and inhibins participate, including several recently discovered biological activities and functional antagonists. The potential therapeutic relevance of these advances is also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Namwanje
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Chester W Brown
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030 Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030 Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, Texas 77030
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19
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Rateb S, Khalifa M, El-Bahrawy K. The influence of active immunization against inhibin on dromedary camel ovarian and hormonal dynamics. Small Rumin Res 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2015.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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20
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Marsters P, Kendall NR, Campbell BK. Pre-translational regulation of luteinizing hormone receptor in follicular somatic cells of cattle. Anim Reprod Sci 2015; 163:63-74. [PMID: 26507944 PMCID: PMC4679792 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2015.09.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2014] [Revised: 09/28/2015] [Accepted: 09/30/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Differential regulation of LHR in theca cells (TC) and granulosa cells (GC) is important for normal follicular development. Unlike TC, GC only acquire LH-responsiveness during the later stages of antral follicle development. This study tested the hypothesis that differential LH-responsiveness in these two cell types may be due, in part, to shifts in cellular patterns of alternatively spliced LHR mRNA transcripts which may not be obvious from analysis of total LHR gene expression. It also further explored the role of translation inhibition by an LHR binding protein (LHBP), normally associated with the production of endogenous cholesterol. LHR mRNA variation arises as a result of the alternative splicing of two variable deletion sites (VDS) designated 5′ VDS and 3′ VDS, and it was proposed that differences in cell sensitivity to LH may be due in part to variations in the pattern of the mRNA expression of the receptor variants. The outcomes of the present study support a dynamic multi-facetted regulation of LHR during pre-translation. Not only did the ratio between variants change during antral follicle growth and in vitro cell differentiation but also between TC and GC. Regulation could also be linked to LH concentration feedback mechanisms as the absence of LH caused cultured TC to markedly up-regulate amounts of LHR mRNA. In both TC and GC, LHR mRNA was greatly reduced after treatment to block mevalonate production in the de novo cholesterol pathway, adding further support for a regulatory mechanism linked to enriched cellular amounts of mevalonate kinase.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Marsters
- University of Nottingham, Division of Child Health, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham NG7 2UH, United Kingdom.
| | - N R Kendall
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Sutton Bonington, Leicestershire LE12 5RD, United Kingdom
| | - B K Campbell
- University of Nottingham, Division of Child Health, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham NG7 2UH, United Kingdom
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21
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Scaramuzzi RJ, Zouaïdi N, Menassol JB, Dupont J. The effects of intravenous, glucose versus saline on ovarian follicles and their levels of some mediators of insulin signalling. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2015; 13:6. [PMID: 25604903 PMCID: PMC4417278 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-13-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2014] [Accepted: 01/17/2015] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A short-term increase in food intake and specifically dietary energy can stimulate folliculogenesis and increase ovulation rate in ewes. The mechanism appears to involve the insulin-glucose metabolic system and its interaction with FSH signalling pathways in the granulosa cells of ovarian follicles. This experiment was designed to investigate the interaction between these two systems in the granulosa cells of ovarian follicles. METHODS Thirty six Ile-de-France ewes were used in this controlled experiment to study the effects of intravenous glucose on folliculogenesis. Eighteen ewes were infused with glucose (10 mM/h for 72 h) from day 8 of the oestrous cycle, while the others (controls) received saline. Ovaries were collected when the infusions ended (luteal phase) or 30 h later and after a luteolytic dose of a PGF2α analogue (follicular phase). Follicles were dissected and granulosa cells and follicular fluid harvested. The blood concentrations of glucose, insulin, oestradiol and FSH were monitored over the experiment. The levels of Aromatase P450 and of the phosphorylated and non-phosphorylated forms of Akt, AMPK and ERK in granulosa cells and the concentration of oestradiol in follicular fluid, were determined. RESULTS Glucose increased the circulating concentration of glucose (P < 0.05) and insulin (P < 0.05). It also increased the total number of follicles >1.0 mm in diameter (P < 0.05) and small (P < 0.05) follicles (>1.0 to 2.0 mm in diameter) but not medium (>2.0 to 3.5 mm in diameter) or large (>3.5 mm in diameter) follicles. Glucose decreased circulating oestradiol (P < 0.05) but not that of FSH or progesterone. Glucose reduced aromatase P450 (P < 0.05) and decreased the phosphorylation of Akt (P < 0.05), ERK (P < 0.05) and AMPK (P < 0.05) in granulosa cells from oestrogenic follicles. The level of Aromatase P450 was greatest in large oestrogenic follicles and the phosphorylation of Akt (P < 0.05), ERK (P < 0.05) and AMPK (P < 0.05) was lower in small follicles compared to medium and large follicles. CONCLUSIONS These data suggest that the effect of glucose in small follicles is a direct action of glucose that increases the number of small follicles while the effect of glucose in oestrogenic follicles is an indirect insulin-mediated action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rex John Scaramuzzi
- L'Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique, Unité Mixte de Recherche 6175, Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, Nouzilly, 37380, France.
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mimms, Hertfordshire, AL9 7TA, UK.
| | - Nesrine Zouaïdi
- L'Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique, Unité Mixte de Recherche 6175, Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, Nouzilly, 37380, France.
| | - Jean-Baptiste Menassol
- L'Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique, Unité Mixte de Recherche 6175, Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, Nouzilly, 37380, France.
- L'Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique, UR 1213 URH Unité de Recherches sur les Herbivores, Centre de recherche de Clermont-Ferrand-Theix, Clermont-Ferrand, France.
| | - Joëlle Dupont
- L'Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique, Unité Mixte de Recherche 6175, Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, Nouzilly, 37380, France.
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22
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Makanji Y, Zhu J, Mishra R, Holmquist C, Wong WPS, Schwartz NB, Mayo KE, Woodruff TK. Inhibin at 90: from discovery to clinical application, a historical review. Endocr Rev 2014; 35:747-94. [PMID: 25051334 PMCID: PMC4167436 DOI: 10.1210/er.2014-1003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
When it was initially discovered in 1923, inhibin was characterized as a hypophysiotropic hormone that acts on pituitary cells to regulate pituitary hormone secretion. Ninety years later, what we know about inhibin stretches far beyond its well-established capacity to inhibit activin signaling and suppress pituitary FSH production. Inhibin is one of the major reproductive hormones involved in the regulation of folliculogenesis and steroidogenesis. Although the physiological role of inhibin as an activin antagonist in other organ systems is not as well defined as it is in the pituitary-gonadal axis, inhibin also modulates biological processes in other organs through paracrine, autocrine, and/or endocrine mechanisms. Inhibin and components of its signaling pathway are expressed in many organs. Diagnostically, inhibin is used for prenatal screening of Down syndrome as part of the quadruple test and as a biochemical marker in the assessment of ovarian reserve. In this review, we provide a comprehensive summary of our current understanding of the biological role of inhibin, its relationship with activin, its signaling mechanisms, and its potential value as a diagnostic marker for reproductive function and pregnancy-associated conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yogeshwar Makanji
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (Y.M., J.Z., C.H., W.P.S.W., T.K.W.), Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois 60610; Center for Molecular Innovation and Drug Discovery (R.M., C.H.), Chemistry of Life Processes Institute, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208; and Department of Molecular Biosciences (N.B.S., K.E.M., T.K.W.), Center for Reproductive Science, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208
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23
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Shaw ND, Srouji SS, Welt CK, Cox KH, Fox JH, Adams JM, Sluss PM, Hall JE. Evidence that increased ovarian aromatase activity and expression account for higher estradiol levels in African American compared with Caucasian women. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2014; 99:1384-92. [PMID: 24285681 PMCID: PMC3973772 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2013-2398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Serum estradiol levels are significantly higher across the menstrual cycle in African American (AAW) compared with Caucasian women (CW) in the presence of similar FSH levels, yet the mechanism underlying this disparity is unknown. OBJECTIVE The objective of the study was to determine whether higher estradiol levels in AAW are due to increased granulosa cell aromatase mRNA expression and activity. DESIGN The design of the study included daily blood sampling and dominant follicle aspirations at an academic medical center during a natural menstrual cycle. SUBJECTS Healthy, normal cycling AAW (n = 15) and CW (n = 14) aged 19-34 years participated in the study. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Hormone levels in peripheral blood and follicular fluid (FF) aspirates and aromatase and FSH receptor mRNA expression in granulosa cells were measured. RESULTS AAW had higher FF estradiol [1713.0 (1144.5-2032.5) vs 994.5 (647.3-1426.5) ng/mL; median (interquartile range); P < .001] and estrone [76.9 (36.6-173.4) vs 28.8 (22.5-42.1) ng/mL; P < .001] levels than CW, independent of follicle size. AAW also had lower FF androstenedione to estrone (7 ± 1.8 vs 15.8 ± 4.1; mean ± SE; P = .04) and T to estradiol (0.01 ± 0.002 vs 0.02 ± 0.005; P = .03) ratios, indicating enhanced ovarian aromatase activity. There was a 5-fold increase in granulosa cell aromatase mRNA expression in AAW compared with CW (P < .001) with no difference in expression of FSH receptor. FSH, inhibin A, inhibin B, and AMH levels were not different in AAW and CW. CONCLUSIONS Increased ovarian aromatase mRNA expression, higher FF estradiol levels, and decreased FF androgen to estrogen ratios in AAW compared with CW provide compelling evidence that racial differences in ovarian aromatase activity contribute to higher levels of estradiol in AAW across the menstrual cycle. The absence of differences in FSH, FSH receptor expression, and AMH suggest that population-specific genetic variation in CYP19, the gene encoding aromatase, or in factors affecting its expression should be sought.
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Affiliation(s)
- N D Shaw
- Reproductive Endocrine Unit (N.D.S., S.S.S., C.K.W., K.H.C., J.M.A., P.M.S., J.E.H.), Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston Massachusetts 02114; and Division of Endocrinology (N.D.S.), Children's Hospital Boston, and Center for Infertility and Reproductive Surgery (S.S.S., J.H.F.), Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02115
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24
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Wang HM, Zi XD, Zhou H. cDNA sequence analysis, recombinant expression of the inhibin α-subunit of the yak ( Bos grunniens). JOURNAL OF APPLIED ANIMAL RESEARCH 2013. [DOI: 10.1080/09712119.2012.742440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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25
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Sittadjody S, Saul JM, Joo S, Yoo JJ, Atala A, Opara EC. Engineered multilayer ovarian tissue that secretes sex steroids and peptide hormones in response to gonadotropins. Biomaterials 2013; 34:2412-20. [PMID: 23274068 PMCID: PMC3557586 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2012.11.059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2012] [Accepted: 11/29/2012] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Although hormone replacement therapy is an option for the loss of ovarian function, hormone delivery through pharmacological means results in various clinical complications. The present study was designed to deliver sex steroids by a functional construct fabricated using encapsulation techniques. Theca and granulosa cells isolated from ovaries of 21-day old rats were encapsulated in multilayer alginate microcapsules to recapitulate the native follicular structure. Cells encapsulated in two other schemes were used as controls to assess the importance of the multilayer structure. The endocrine functions of the encapsulated cells were assessed in vitro for a period of 30 days. Encapsulated cells showed sustained viability during long-term in vitro culture with those encapsulated in multilayer capsules secreting significantly higher and sustained concentrations of 17 β-estradiol (E(2)) than the two other encapsulation schemes (p < 0.05, n = 6) in response to follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). In addition, cells in the multilayer microcapsules also secreted activin and inhibin in vitro. In contrast, when granulosa and theca cells were cultured in 2D culture, progesterone (P(4)) secretion increased while E(2) secretion decreased over a 30-day period. In summary, we have designed a multilayer engineered ovarian tissue that secretes sex steroids and peptide hormones and responds to gonadotropins, thus demonstrating the ability to recapitulate native ovarian structure ex vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sivanandane Sittadjody
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27101
| | - Justin M. Saul
- Department of Chemical and Paper Engineering, Miami University, Oxford, OH 45056
| | - Sunyoung Joo
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27101
| | - James J. Yoo
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27101
| | - Anthony Atala
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27101
| | - Emmanuel C. Opara
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, Tel: 336-713-1297, Fax: 336-713-7290
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Cheon YP. Regulation and 3 dimensional culture of tertiary follicle growth. Clin Exp Reprod Med 2012; 39:95-106. [PMID: 23106040 PMCID: PMC3479238 DOI: 10.5653/cerm.2012.39.3.95] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2012] [Revised: 09/22/2012] [Accepted: 09/28/2012] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
It has been revealed that multiple cohorts of tertiary follicles develop during some animal estrous cycle and the human menstrual cycle. To reach developmental competence, oocytes need the support of somatic cells. During embryogenesis, the primordial germ cells appear, travel to the gonadal rudiments, and form follicles. The female germ cells develop within the somatic cells of the ovary, granulosa cells, and theca cells. How the oocyte and follicle cells support each other has been seriously studied. The latest technologies in genes and proteins and genetic engineering have allowed us to collect a great deal of information about folliculogenesis. For example, a few web pages (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov; http://mrg.genetics.washington.edu) provide access to databases of genomes, sequences of transcriptomes, and various tools for analyzing and discovering genes important in ovarian development. Formation of the antrum (tertiary follicle) is the final phase of folliculogenesis and the transition from intraovarian to extraovian regulation. This final step coordinates with the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis. On the other hand, currently, follicle physiology is under intense investigation, as little is known about how to overcome women's ovarian problems or how to develop competent oocytes from in vitro follicle culture or transplantation. In this review, some of the known roles of hormones and some of the genes involved in tertiary follicle growth and the general characteristics of tertiary follicles are summarized. In addition, in vitro culture of tertiary follicles is also discussed as a study model and an assisted reproductive technology model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong-Pil Cheon
- Division of Developmental Biology and Physiology, School of Biosciences and Chemistry, Sungshin Women's University, Seoul, Korea
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Knight PG, Satchell L, Glister C. Intra-ovarian roles of activins and inhibins. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2012; 359:53-65. [PMID: 21664422 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2011.04.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2010] [Revised: 04/26/2011] [Accepted: 04/27/2011] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Granulosa cells are the main ovarian source of inhibins, activins and activin-binding protein (follistatin) while germ (oogonia, oocytes) and somatic (theca, granulosa, luteal) cells express activin receptors, signaling components and inhibin co-receptor (betaglycan). Activins are implicated in various intra-ovarian roles including germ cell survival and primordial follicle assembly; follicle growth from preantral to mid-antral stages; suppression of thecal androgen production; promotion of granulosa cell proliferation, FSHR and CYP19A1 expression; enhancement of oocyte developmental competence; retardation of follicle luteinization and/or atresia and involvement in luteolysis. Inhibins (primarily inhibin A) are produced in greatest amounts by preovulatory follicles (and corpus luteum in primates) and suppress FSH secretion through endocrine negative feedback. Together with follistatin, inhibins act locally to oppose auto-/paracrine activin (and BMP) signaling thus modulating many of the above processes. The balance between activin-inhibin shifts during follicle development with activin signalling prevailing at earlier stages but declining as inhibin and betaglycan expression rise.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phil G Knight
- School of Biological Sciences, Hopkins Building, University of Reading, Whiteknights, Reading RG6 6UB, UK.
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28
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Berlinguer F, Gonzalez-Bulnes A, Spezzigu A, Contreras-Solis I, Succu S, McNeilly AS, Naitana S, Leoni GG. Effect of aging on follicular function may be relieved by exogenous gonadotropin treatment in a sheep model. Reproduction 2012; 144:245-55. [PMID: 22685252 DOI: 10.1530/rep-12-0030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The current study investigated hormonal and ovarian changes during physiological reproductive aging in Sarda ewes. In a first experiment, follicular and corpus luteum dynamics were compared during an induced oestrus cycle in aged (12-14 years) and young adult ewes (4-5 years). Oestrus cycle characteristics did not differ between the two experimental groups. However, follicular function during the follicular phase showed significant alterations in aged ewes, as determined by a lack of dominance effect and by lower mean values of circulating oestradiol (E(2)) and inhibin levels, compared with young adult ewes. In a second experiment, differences in follicle growth, hormonal milieu and oocyte quality in response to exogenous FSH administration were assessed in aged and adult ewes. No differences were recorded in ovarian response to FSH treatment between young adult and aged ewes, as evaluated by ultrasonographic data and circulating concentrations of LH, E(2) and inhibin-A. Although the total number of recovered oocytes was similar in the two age groups, the number of good quality oocytes selected for IVM was significantly lower in aged ewes compared with adult ones. Thereafter, no differences were recorded in cleavage rates, total blastocyst output, embryo developmental kinetic and quality between aged and adult groups. In conclusion, this study demonstrated that reproductive aging in sheep is associated with impaired follicle functionality and an increase in the proportion of oocytes showing morphological abnormalities. However interestingly, oocyte developmental competence in vitro and embryo cryotolerance were not affected by the aging process, when only good quality oocytes were chosen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiammetta Berlinguer
- Department of Animal Biology, University of Sassari, Via Vienna 2, 07100 Sassari, Italy.
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29
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Molecular control of oogenesis. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2012; 1822:1896-912. [PMID: 22634430 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2012.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 225] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2012] [Revised: 05/08/2012] [Accepted: 05/13/2012] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Oogenesis is a complex process regulated by a vast number of intra- and extra-ovarian factors. Oogonia, which originate from primordial germ cells, proliferate by mitosis and form primary oocytes that arrest at the prophase stage of the first meiotic division until they are fully-grown. Within primary oocytes, synthesis and accumulation of RNAs and proteins throughout oogenesis are essential for oocyte growth and maturation; and moreover, crucial for developing into a viable embryo after fertilization. Oocyte meiotic and developmental competence is gained in a gradual and sequential manner during folliculogenesis and is related to the fact that the oocyte grows in interaction with its companion somatic cells. Communication between oocyte and its surrounding granulosa cells is vital, both for oocyte development and for granulosa cells differentiation. Oocytes depend on differentiated cumulus cells, which provide them with nutrients and regulatory signals needed to promote oocyte nuclear and cytoplasmic maturation and consequently the acquisition of developmental competence.The purpose of this article is to summarize recent knowledge on the molecular aspects of oogenesis and oocyte maturation, and the crucial role of cumulus-cell interactions, highlighting the valuable contribution of experimental evidences obtained in animal models. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Molecular Genetics of Human Reproductive Failure.
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30
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Young JM, McNeilly AS. Inhibin removes the inhibitory effects of activin on steroid enzyme expression and androgen production by normal ovarian thecal cells. J Mol Endocrinol 2012; 48:49-60. [PMID: 22082494 PMCID: PMC3266103 DOI: 10.1530/jme-11-0134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Activin and inhibin are important local modulators of theca cell steroidogenesis in the ovary. Using a serum-free primary theca cell culture system, this study investigated the effects of inhibin on theca cell androgen production and expression of steroidogenic enzymes. Androstenedione secretion from theca cells cultured in media containing activin, inhibin and follistatin was assessed by RIA over 144 h. Activin (1-100 ng/ml) suppressed androstenedione production. Inhibin (1-100 ng/ml) blocked the suppressive effects of added activin, but increased androstenedione production when added alone, suggesting it was blocking endogenous activin produced by theca cells. Addition of SB-431542 (activin receptor inhibitor) and follistatin (500 ng/ml) increased androstenedione production, supporting this concept. Infection of theca cells with adenoviruses expressing inhibitory Smad6 or 7 increased androstenedione secretion, confirming that the suppressive effects of activin required activation of the Smad2/3 pathway. Activin decreased the expression levels of steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (STAR), whereas STAR expression was increased by inhibin and SB-431542, alone and in combination. CYP11A was unaffected. The expression of CYP17 encoding 17α-hydroxylase was unaffected by activin but increased by inhibin and SB-431542, and when added in combination the effect was further enhanced. The expression of 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3β-HSD) was significantly decreased by activin, while inhibin alone and in combination with SB-431542 both potently increased the expression of 3β-HSD. In conclusion, activin suppressed theca cell androstenedione production by decreasing the expression of STAR and 3β-HSD. Inhibin and other blockers of activin action reversed this effect, supporting the concept that endogenous thecal activin modulates androgen production in theca cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- J M Young
- MRC Human Reproductive Sciences Unit, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK.
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31
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Luckenbach JA, Dickey JT, Swanson P. Follicle-stimulating hormone regulation of ovarian transcripts for steroidogenesis-related proteins and cell survival, growth and differentiation factors in vitro during early secondary oocyte growth in coho salmon. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2011; 171:52-63. [PMID: 21187099 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2010.12.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2010] [Revised: 12/16/2010] [Accepted: 12/20/2010] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Little is known about follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) function during oocyte growth in fishes. The goal of this study was to gain a fundamental understanding of FSH action on ovarian follicles during early secondary oocyte growth by examining changes in ovarian gene expression and steroidogenesis in response to FSH. Coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch) mid to late cortical alveolus stage follicles were incubated with or without salmon FSH in time-course and concentration-response experiments. Steroid levels were determined in the culture medium by immunoassay and levels of target ovarian mRNAs were determined by quantitative RT-PCR. Medium estradiol-17β (E2) levels increased in response to FSH and plateaued by 36h, while testosterone levels increased similarly but were lower and more variable than E2. Gonadotropin receptor transcripts were differentially regulated, with fshr and lhcgr being down- and up- regulated, respectively. Transcripts encoding proteins involved in steroidogenesis, such as star and hsd3b were significantly upregulated by FSH, whereas aromatase (cyp19a1a) mRNA was unaffected by FSH and declined over time in culture. A recently identified teleost gene, bmp16, was suppressed by FSH and an anti-apoptotic factor, clusterin 1 (clu1), was upregulated by FSH. Lesser FSH effects were observed on igf2, cyp11a1 and cyp17a1, which were stimulated, and igf1ra, inhbb, amh and apoe, which were suppressed. As evident by the significant increases in steroid production and transcripts for specific steroidogenesis-related proteins, FSH influences steroidogenesis during early secondary growth and may be a critical signal for puberty onset. Effects of FSH on ovarian anti-apoptotic and growth factor genes suggest roles for FSH in cell survival, growth and differentiation in teleosts.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Adam Luckenbach
- Northwest Fisheries Science Center, NOAA Fisheries, Seattle, WA 98112, USA.
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32
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Scaramuzzi RJ, Baird DT, Campbell BK, Driancourt MA, Dupont J, Fortune JE, Gilchrist RB, Martin GB, McNatty KP, McNeilly AS, Monget P, Monniaux D, Viñoles C, Webb R. Regulation of folliculogenesis and the determination of ovulation rate in ruminants. Reprod Fertil Dev 2011; 23:444-67. [DOI: 10.1071/rd09161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 185] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2009] [Accepted: 10/05/2010] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The paper presents an update of our 1993 model of ovarian follicular development in ruminants, based on knowledge gained from the past 15 years of research. The model addresses the sequence of events from follicular formation in fetal life, through the successive waves of follicular growth and atresia, culminating with the emergence of ovulatory follicles during reproductive cycles. The original concept of five developmental classes of follicles, defined primarily by their responses to gonadotrophins, is retained: primordial, committed, gonadotrophin-responsive, gonadotrophin-dependent and ovulatory follicles. The updated model has more extensive integration of the morphological, molecular and cellular events during folliculogenesis with systemic events in the whole animal. It also incorporates knowledge on factors that influence oocyte quality and the critical roles of the oocyte in regulating follicular development and ovulation rate. The original hypothetical mechanisms determining ovulation rate are retained but with some refinements; the enhanced viability of gonadotrophin-dependent follicles and increases in the number of gonadotrophin-responsive follicles by increases in the throughput of follicles to this stage of growth. Finally, we reexamine how these two mechanisms, which are thought not to be mutually exclusive, appear to account for most of the known genetic and environmental effects on ovulation rate.
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33
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Campbell B, Kendall N, Baird D. Effect of Direct Ovarian Infusion of Bone Morphogenetic Protein 6 (BMP6) on Ovarian Function in Sheep1. Biol Reprod 2009; 81:1016-23. [DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.109.076653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
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34
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Lu C, Yang W, Chen M, Liu T, Yang J, Tan P, Li L, Hu X, Fan C, Hu Z, Liu Y. Inhibin A inhibits follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) action by suppressing its receptor expression in cultured rat granulosa cells. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2009; 298:48-56. [PMID: 18992787 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2008.09.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2008] [Revised: 08/24/2008] [Accepted: 09/29/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Inhibin has long been considered as a suppresser of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) secretion from anterior pituitary through pituitary-gonad negative feedback to regulate follicle development. We demonstrated that addition of inhibin A could significantly suppress FSH-induced FSHR mRNA level in cultured rat granulosa cells (GCs) measured by real-time PCR. The inhibin A exerted its action mainly by inhibiting FSHR promoter activity. Furthermore, exogenous inhibin A could dramatically decrease FSH-induced P450arom and P450scc level and suppress progesterone and estradiol production in the cultured GCs, but it did not decrease forskolin-induced steroidogenesis, indicating that the inhibitory effect of inhibin A on FSH action may be upstream of cAMP signaling. Inhibin A was also capable of suppressing FSH-induced expression of steroidogenic factor 1 (SF-1) and androgen receptor, but stimulating DAX-1 expression in the culture. Our study has provided new evidence to show that inhibin A is capable of feedback antagonizing FSH action on GCs by reducing FSHR expression at ovarian level via a short feedback loop. Transcriptional factor receptors, such as SF-1, AR and DAX-1 were involved in this regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cuiling Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100101, China
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35
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Kanakkaparambil R, Singh R, Li D, Webb R, Sinclair KD. B-vitamin and homocysteine status determines ovarian response to gonadotropin treatment in sheep. Biol Reprod 2008; 80:743-52. [PMID: 19074000 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.108.072074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Maternal B-vitamin status and homocysteinemia can affect fertility and pregnancy establishment, although the direct effects on ovarian follicle and oocyte development are not known. We report on the effects of restricting the supply of vitamin B(12) and methionine from the diet of mature female sheep on ovarian folliculogenesis following follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) stimulation. The study was split into three batches and involved 76 animals. Surprisingly, the number of growing, estrogen-active antral follicles following FSH treatment was enhanced (P = 0.005) following this dietary intervention. This increase occurred even in the presence of modest live-weight loss (batch 1 only) and depressed plasma insulin concentrations, suggesting a breakdown in the regulation of follicular responsiveness to FSH. This dietary intervention also increased plasma homocysteine concentrations. Physiological concentrations of homocysteine increased granulosa cell proliferation (P < 0.001), estradiol production (P = 0.05), and FSHR transcript expression (P = 0.017) during culture. Transcript levels for growth differentiation factor 9 and bone morphogenetic protein 15 in oocytes from treated ewes were increased (P < 0.05) in the first two batches. Furthermore, regression of BMP receptor 2 (BMPR2) transcript expression and diet on follicle number revealed a significant interaction (P = 0.01); BMPR2 transcript expression was associated with follicle number only in vitamin B(12)/methionine-restricted animals. Because FSHR transcript expression also was positively (P = 0.007) related to follicle number, the effects of diet may have arisen through enhanced FSH and BMP signaling. Although this remains to be confirmed, the data support an intraovarian impact of vitamin B(12)/methionine-deficient diets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raji Kanakkaparambil
- School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington, United Kingdom
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36
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Geng LY, Fang M, Yi JM, Jiang F, Moeen-ud-Din M, Yang LG. Effect of overexpression of inhibin α (1–32) fragment on bovine granulosa cell proliferation, apoptosis, steroidogenesis, and development of co-cultured oocytes. Theriogenology 2008; 70:35-43. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2008.02.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2007] [Revised: 01/24/2008] [Accepted: 02/15/2008] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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37
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Assidi M, Dufort I, Ali A, Hamel M, Algriany O, Dielemann S, Sirard MA. Identification of potential markers of oocyte competence expressed in bovine cumulus cells matured with follicle-stimulating hormone and/or phorbol myristate acetate in vitro. Biol Reprod 2008; 79:209-22. [PMID: 18417710 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.108.067686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 151] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Oocyte competence is the ability of the oocyte to complete maturation, undergo successful fertilization, and reach the blastocyst stage. Cumulus cells are indispensable for this process. Their removal significantly affects the blastocyst rates. Moreover, the properties and functions of cumulus cells are regulated by the oocyte. They also reflect the oocyte's degree of maturation. Our study was aimed at identifying markers of oocyte competence that are expressed in bovine cumulus cells. In a previous study in our laboratory, the blastocyst yield following FSH or phorbol myristate acetate (PMA) treatment was 45%%. Therefore, we tested four sets of conditions during the first 6 h of in vitro maturation (IVM): FSH (0.1 microg/ml), PMA (0.1 microM), FSH ++ PMA, and negative control. Extracts from each IVM treatment were hybridized against the same negative control on a microarray containing a partial library of differentially expressed transcripts in the cumulus of competent oocytes collected at 6 h after LH in vivo. Common positive clones between diffrentially treated cells were selected, and 15 candidates were validated by real-time PCR. Based on this, the main candidates expressed in cumulus cells and that could be valuable and indirect markers of oocyte competence are hyaluronan synthase 2 (HAS2), inhibin betaA (INHBA), epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), gremlin 1 (GREM1), betacellulin (BTC), CD44, tumor necrosis factor-induced protein 6 (TNFAIP6), and prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 2 (PTGS2). These biomarkers could be potential candidates to predict oocyte competence and to select higher-quality embryos for transfer. Additionally, these indirect predictors of oocyte competence and follicular health could improve our knowledge of gene expression patterns in the cumulus and yield insights into the molecular pathways controlling oocyte competence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mourad Assidi
- Centre de Recherche en Biologie de la Reproduction, Université Laval, Québec, Québec, Canada G1K 7P4
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38
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Platteau P. Hormonprofil und Embryoqualität, der Schlüssel zum Erfolg (MERiT). GYNAKOLOGISCHE ENDOKRINOLOGIE 2008. [DOI: 10.1007/s10304-007-0223-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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39
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Campbell BK, Kendall NR, Baird DT. The Effect of the Presence and Pattern of Luteinizing Hormone Stimulation on Ovulatory Follicle Development in Sheep1. Biol Reprod 2007; 76:719-27. [PMID: 17167168 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.106.053462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to examine the role of LH on the growth of the large preovulatory follicle and its secretion of hormones in sheep. Ewes with ovarian autotransplants were treated with GnRH-antagonist at the time of luteal regression and different LH regimes applied for 60-66 h before administration of an ovulatory stimulus (hCG). In Experiment 1 (N = 24; n = 8), ewes received either no LH or constant or pulsatile infusion of LH at the same dose (1.25 microg/h). In Experiment 2 (N = 12, n = 6), LH was constantly infused at a rate of 1.25 microg or 2.5 microg oLH/h. In Experiment 1, animals receiving either pulsatile or constant LH exhibited increases in estradiol and inhibin A secretion (P < 0.001) and a depression in FSH (P < 0.001) that resembled the normal follicular phase. Similarly in Experiment 2, doubling the dose of LH resulted in a two-fold increase in ovarian estradiol secretion (P < 0.05) but no other changes. All animals receiving LH, regardless of the pattern of stimulation, ovulated and established a normal luteal phase. In contrast, no LH treatment resulted in constant immuno-active LH without pulses, unchanged FSH and inhibin A concentrations (P < 0.05), and basal estradiol secretion (P < 0.001). Morphologically normal large antral follicles were observed in this group and although corpora lutea formed in response to hCG, progesterone profiles were abnormal. In conclusion, these results suggest that LH is an essential requirement for normal ovulatory follicle development and subsequent luteal function and show that a pulsatile mode of LH stimulation is not required by ovulatory follicles.
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Affiliation(s)
- B K Campbell
- School of Human Development, University of Nottingham, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK.
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40
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Todini S, Terzano G, Malfatti A. Validation of ELISA kits for determination of Inhibin-A and Estradiol-17-beta concentrations in Buffalo plasma. ITALIAN JOURNAL OF ANIMAL SCIENCE 2007. [DOI: 10.4081/ijas.2007.s2.585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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41
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Abstract
In recent years, exciting progress has been made towards unravelling the complex intraovarian control mechanisms that, in concert with systemic signals, coordinate the recruitment, selection and growth of follicles from the primordial stage through to ovulation and corpus luteum formation. A plethora of growth factors, many belonging to the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β ) superfamily, are expressed by ovarian somatic cells and oocytes in a developmental, stage-related manner and function as intraovarian regulators of folliculogenesis. Two such factors, bone morphogenetic proteins, BMP-4 and BMP-7, are expressed by ovarian stromal cells and/or theca cells and have recently been implicated as positive regulators of the primordial-to-primary follicle transition. In contrast, evidence indicates a negative role for anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH, also known as Mullerian-inhibiting substance) of pre-granulosa/granulosa cell origin in this key event and subsequent progression to the antral stage. Two other TGF-β superfamily members, growth and differentiation factor-9 (GDF-9) and BMP-15 (also known as GDF-9B) are expressed in an oocyte-specific manner from a very early stage and play key roles in promoting follicle growth beyond the primary stage; mice with null mutations in the gdf-9 gene or ewes with inactivating mutations in gdf-9 or bmp-15 genes are infertile with follicle development arrested at the primary stage. Studies on later stages of follicle development indicate positive roles for granulosa cell-derived activin, BMP-2, -5 and -6, theca cell-derived BMP-2, -4 and -7 and oocyte-derived BMP-6 in promoting granulosa cell proliferation, follicle survival and prevention of premature luteinization and/or atresia. Concomitantly, activin, TGF-β and several BMPs may exert paracrine actions on theca cells to attenuate LH-dependent androgen production in small to medium-size antral follicles. Dominant follicle selection in monovular species may depend on differential FSH sensitivity amongst a growing cohort of small antral follicles. Changes in intrafollicular activins, GDF-9, AMH and several BMPs may contribute to this selection process by modulating both FSH- and IGF-dependent signalling pathways in granulosa cells. Activin may also play a positive role in oocyte maturation and acquisition of developmental competence. In addition to its endocrine role to suppress FSH secretion, increased output of inhibin by the selected dominant follicle(s) may upregulate LH-induced androgen secretion that is required to sustain a high level of oestradiol secretion during the pre-ovulatory phase. Advances in our understanding of intraovarian regulatory mechanisms should facilitate the development of new approaches for monitoring and manipulating ovarian function and improving fertility in domesticated livestock, endangered species and man.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phil G Knight
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Reading, Whiteknights, Reading RG6 6AJ, UK.
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42
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Kobayashi Y, Jimenez-Krassel F, Ireland JJ, Smith GW. Evidence of a local negative role for cocaine and amphetamine regulated transcript (CART), inhibins and low molecular weight insulin like growth factor binding proteins in regulation of granulosa cell estradiol production during follicular waves in cattle. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2006; 4:22. [PMID: 16611367 PMCID: PMC1459166 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-4-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2005] [Accepted: 04/12/2006] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The ability of ovarian follicles to produce large amounts of estradiol is a hallmark of follicle health status. Estradiol producing capacity is lost in ovarian follicles before morphological signs of atresia. A prominent wave like pattern of growth of antral follicles is characteristic of monotocous species such as cattle, horses and humans. While our knowledge of the role of pituitary gonadotropins in support of antral follicle growth and development is well established, the intrinsic factors that suppress estradiol production and may help promote atresia during follicular waves are not well understood. Numerous growth factors and cytokines have been reported to suppress granulosa cell estradiol production in vitro, but the association of expression of many such factors in vivo with follicle health status and their physiological significance are not clear. The purpose of this review is to discuss the in vivo and in vitro evidence supporting a local physiological role for cocaine and amphetamine regulated transcript, inhibins and low molecular weight insulin like growth factor binding proteins in negative regulation of granulosa cell estradiol production, with emphasis on evidence from the bovine model system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasuhiro Kobayashi
- Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | | | - James J Ireland
- Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
- Department of Physiology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - George W Smith
- Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
- Department of Physiology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
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43
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Berlinguer F, Gonzalez-Bulnes A, Succu S, Leoni GG, Veiga-Lopez A, Mossa F, Garcia-Garcia RM, Bebbere D, Galioto M, Cocero MJ, Naitana S. GnRH antagonist enhance follicular growth in FSH-treated sheep but affect developmental competence of oocytes collected by ovum pick-up. Theriogenology 2006; 65:1099-109. [PMID: 16182356 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2005.07.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2005] [Revised: 07/11/2005] [Accepted: 07/31/2005] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
This study evaluates the in vitro developmental competence of oocytes collected by ovum pick up (OPU) from sheep treated with GnRH antagonists (GnRHa) and high doses of FSH. Eighteen Sarda ewes were treated with progestagen sponges (day 0). On day 7, 10 ewes received 3 mg of GnRHa s.c., while 8 served as control receiving saline. On day 10, all animals were treated with 96 IU of ovine FSH in four equal doses given i.m. every 12 h. We monitored follicular development by ultrasonography, twice daily from day 7 to 11, and found that GnRHa induced a significant increase in the number of total follicles in 72 h (11.7+/-0.9 to 21+/-2.4, r(2)=0.598, P<0.0001), while this number remained stable in control sheep. We found that FSH induced a significant rise in the number of follicles in both groups; but always higher (P<0.05) in GnRHa treated sheep, confirming that GnRHa enhances ovarian response to exogenous FSH stimulation. Twelve hours after the last FSH dose, oocytes were collected by OPU. Recovery percentage, morphological quality, ability to resume meiosis, fertilization and cleavage were similar in oocytes from treated and untreated sheep. However, the final blastocysts output was lower in GnRHa group (10.1% versus 27.4% in control group; P<0.05). In addition, re-expansion rates after vitrification, thawing and in vitro culture were lower in GnRHa treated ewes, although differences did not reach statistical significance (55.5% versus 74.1% in GnRHa treated and in control sheep, respectively).
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Affiliation(s)
- F Berlinguer
- Department of Animal Biology, University of Sassari, Via Vienna 2, 07100-Sassari, Italy.
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44
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Campbell BK, Souza CJH, Skinner AJ, Webb R, Baird DT. Enhanced response of granulosa and theca cells from sheep carriers of the FecB mutation in vitro to gonadotropins and bone morphogenic protein-2, -4, and -6. Endocrinology 2006; 147:1608-20. [PMID: 16396991 DOI: 10.1210/en.2005-0604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The FecB (Booroola) mutation, which leads to increased ovulation rates and multiple births in sheep, is now known to occur in the signaling domain of the bone morphogenic protein (BMP)-1B receptor. We examined the effect of the mutation on the responsiveness of granulosa (GC) and theca cells (TC) to BMPs and other local regulators using tissue from animals with (Fec(B/B)) and without (Fec(+/+)) the FecB mutation. Experiments examined the effect of BMP-2, -4, and -6 (0.005-50 ng/ml), and their interaction with IGF-I (0.1-10 ng/ml LR3 analog) and gonadotropins, on the proliferation and differentiation of GCs and TCs isolated from small (<2 mm) antral follicles and maintained in serum-free culture for up to 8 d. Dose-finding studies using ovaries from wild-type sheep obtained from the abbattoir showed no difference among the different BMPs in stimulating (P < 0.001) estradiol (E2) production by GCs cultured with FSH (10 ng/ml), but there was a clear interaction (P < 0.001) with IGF-I. BMPs had no effect on GC proliferation or the sensitivity of GCs to FSH. In contrast, higher doses of BMPs (5-50 ng/ml) inhibited LH-stimulated androstenedione production by TCs, whereas lower doses (0.005-0.05 ng/ml) stimulated TC proliferation (P < 0.01). Regardless of dose of IGF-I, at the end of culture (96-192 h) hormone production by GCs (E2, inhibin A) and TCs (androstenedione) was 4- to 5-fold greater (P < 0.001) by cells from Fec(B/B), compared with Fec(+/+) ewes exposed to the same dose of gonadotropin. In the presence of low concentrations of IGF-I (0.1 ng/ml), the maximum increase in the production of E2 and inhibin A by GCs from FF ewes in response to BMPs was observed at doses that were 3- to 10-fold lower (3-10 ng/ml) than ++ (30 ng/ml; P < 0.001). Low doses of BMPs stimulated proliferation of TCs from ++ (P < 0.01) but not FF ewes. Immunohistochemistry confirmed BMP-6 protein expression in the oocyte, granulosa, and thecal layers of antral follicles from both genotypes. These results confirm a major role for BMPs in controlling ovarian somatic cell function in sheep and provide evidence to support the hypothesis that the FecB mutation increases the BMP response of somatic cells when stimulated to differentiate by gonadotropins.
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Affiliation(s)
- B K Campbell
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Queen's Medical Centre, University of Nottingham, UK.
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45
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Lopez-Alonso C, Encinas T, Veiga-Lopez A, Garcia-Garcia RM, Cocero MJ, Ros JM, McNeilly AS, Gonzalez-Bulnes A. Follicular growth, endocrine response and embryo yields in sheep superovulated with FSH after pretreatment with a single short-acting dose of GnRH antagonist. Theriogenology 2005; 64:1833-43. [PMID: 15939464 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2005.04.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2005] [Revised: 04/08/2005] [Accepted: 04/19/2005] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to characterize follicular development, onset of oestrus and preovulatory LH surge, and in vivo embryo yields of sheep superovulated after treatment with a single dose of 1.5mg of GnRH antagonist (GnRHa). At first FSH dose, ewes treated with GnRH antagonist (n=12) showed a higher number of gonadotrophin-responsive follicles, 2-3mm, than control ewes (n=9, 13.5+/-3.8 versus 5.3+/-0.3, P<0.05). Administration of FSH increased the number of >or=4mm follicles at sponge removal in both groups (19.3+/-3.8, P<0.0005 for treated ewes and 12.7+/-5.4, P<0.01 for controls). Thereafter, a 25% of the GnRHa-treated sheep did not show oestrous behaviour whilst none control sheep failed (P=0.06). The preovulatory LH surge was detected in an 88.9% of control ewes and 66.7% of GnRHa-treated sheep. A 77.8% of control females showed ovulation with a mean of 9.6+/-0.9 CL and 3.3+/-0.7 viable embryos, while ewes treated with GnRHa and showing an LH surge exhibited a bimodal distribution of response; 50% showed no ovulatory response and 50% superovulated with a mean of 12.2+/-1.1 CL and 7.3+/-1.1 viable embryos. In conclusion, a single dose of GnRHa enhances the number of gonadotrophin-dependent follicles able to grow to preovulatory sizes in response to an FSH supply. However, LH secretion may be altered in some females, which can affect the preovulatory LH surge and/or can weak the terminal maturation of ovulatory follicles.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Lopez-Alonso
- Catedra de Farmacologia, Facultad de Veterinaria, UCM, Avda. Puerta de Hierro s/n, 28040 Madrid, Spain
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46
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Duggavathi R, Bartlewski PM, Barrett DMW, Rawlings NC. The temporal relationship between patterns of LH and FSH secretion, and development of ovulatory-sized follicles during the mid- to late-luteal phase of sheep. Theriogenology 2005; 64:393-407. [PMID: 15955361 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2004.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2004] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to investigate the temporal relationship between the secretory pattern of serum LH and FSH concentrations and waves of ovarian antral follicles during the luteal phase of the estrous cycle in sheep. The growth pattern of ovarian antral follicles and CL were monitored by transrectal ultrasonography and gonadotropin concentrations were measured in blood samples collected every 12 min for 6 h/d from 7 to 14 d after ovulation. There were two follicular waves (penultimate and final waves of the cycle) emerging and growing during the period of intensive blood sampling. Mean and basal LH concentrations and LH pulse frequency increased (P < 0.001) with decreasing progesterone concentration at the end of the cycle. Mean and basal FSH concentrations reached a peak (P < 0.01) on the day of follicular wave emergence before declining to a nadir by 2 d after emergence. None of the parameters of pulsatile LH secretion varied significantly with either the emergence of the final follicular wave or with the end of the growth phase of the largest follicle of the penultimate wave of the cycle. However, mean and basal LH concentrations did increase (P < 0.05) after the end of the growth phase of the largest follicle of the final follicular wave of the cycle. Furthermore, the end of the growth phase of the largest follicle of the final wave coincided with functional luteolysis. In summary, there was no abrupt or short-term change in pulsatile LH secretion in association with the emergence or growth of the largest follicle of a wave. We concluded that the emergence and growth of ovarian antral follicles in follicular waves do not require changes in LH secretion, but may involve changes in sensitivity of ovarian follicles to serum LH concentrations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raj Duggavathi
- Department of Veterinary Biomedical Sciences, Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, 52 Campus Drive, Saskatoon, Sask., S7N 5B4, Canada.
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47
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Luisi S, Florio P, Reis FM, Petraglia F. Inhibins in female and male reproductive physiology: role in gametogenesis, conception, implantation and early pregnancy. Hum Reprod Update 2005; 11:123-35. [PMID: 15618291 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmh057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
A great deal of new information has arisen in the recent years concerning inhibin physiology and clinical relevance in reproductive medicine. It is now recognized that the two inhibin isoforms, named inhibin A and inhibin B, are produced by the gonads in the course of gamete maturation and in women have a different pattern of secretion throughout the menstrual cycle. Since inhibins are also produced by placenta and fetal membranes, it has been suggested that there is an involvement in physiological adaptation of pregnancy. Evidence from several sources has underlined the clinical usefulness of the measurement of inhibin-related proteins in the diagnosis and follow-up of different fertility disturbances and early pregnancy viability. In the male, inhibin B is produced in the testis, principally by the Sertoli cells. Inhibin B expression and secretion are positively correlated with Sertoli cell function, sperm number, and spermatogenic status and are negatively correlated with FSH. This review covers the most recent advances on the role of inhibins in human reproductive function. Considerable progress in the understanding of inhibin physiology has resulted from selective measurement of the two inhibin molecular forms, named inhibin A and B. Newly recognized alterations of inhibin levels in gynaecological diseases as well as in normal and pathological pregnancy are discussed, with particular emphasis on the potential clinical usefulness of assessing inhibin levels in serum and other biological fluids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Luisi
- Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Reproductive Medicine, University of Siena, Italy
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48
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Hirst RC, Abel MH, Wilkins V, Simpson C, Knight PG, Zhang FP, Huhtaniemi I, Kumar TR, Charlton HM. Influence of mutations affecting gonadotropin production or responsiveness on expression of inhibin subunit mRNA and protein in the mouse ovary. Reproduction 2004; 128:43-52. [PMID: 15232063 DOI: 10.1530/rep.1.00176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Measurement of inhibins A and B in the serum of normal cyclic rodents has implicated FSH in the regulation of these peptides within the ovary. To extend these observations we have used a panel of mutant mice carrying mutations which affect either the production of, or the ability to respond to, FSH and LH. As a consequence, the females are infertile and show different degrees of follicular development. The aim of this study was to measure inhibin gene transcription in the ovaries of these mutant females together with inhibin protein levels in ovaries and serum and to relate these to follicular development within the ovary. Comparison was made with a pool of normal/heterozygous females. In hpg females where lack of GnRH production results in the absence of gonadotropin synthesis, in FSHbeta knockout (FSHbetaKO) females where disruption of the gene encoding FSHbeta results in the absence of FSH production, and in FSH receptor knockout (FSHRKO) females which are unable to respond to circulating FSH, follicular development remains at the pre-antral stage in these three mutants. Only in the hpg females were common inhibin alpha subunit mRNA levels significantly lower than normal. In these three mutants, however, mRNA levels for both the betaA and betaB subunits were extremely low compared with normal mice. At the protein level, neither inhibin A nor B was detected in the serum of these three mutants; however inhibin B, albeit at very low levels, was detectable within the ovaries. These observations confirm a major role for FSH in the control of transcription of the betaA and betaB genes but suggest that the constitutive transcription of the alpha subunit is less dependent on FSH. In contrast, in LH receptor knockout (LuRKO) female mice inhibin betaA subunit mRNA levels were similar to those measured in normal/heterozygous females but levels of inhibin alpha and betaB subunit mRNAs were significantly higher than in the normal group. This was reflected in significantly higher inhibin B protein levels in ovaries and serum. An inability to respond to LH combined with high circulating levels of FSH leads to a high proportion of antral follicles in LuRKO females, with granulosa cells constituting the major cell type within the ovary. The high percentage of antral granulosa cells is likely to account for the significantly higher levels of inhibin B production in these ovaries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel C Hirst
- Human Anatomy and Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3QX, UK.
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49
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Ginther OJ, Beg MA, Donadeu FX, Bergfelt DR. Mechanism of follicle deviation in monovular farm species. Anim Reprod Sci 2003; 78:239-57. [PMID: 12818647 DOI: 10.1016/s0378-4320(03)00093-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 142] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Diameter deviation is a distinctive change in growth rates among the follicles of a wave, heralding the formation of a dominant follicle and subordinate follicles. When the follicles are about 5mm in cattle and 13 mm in horses, the wave-stimulating FSH surge reaches peak concentrations. Follicle and FSH manipulation studies in both species have shown that the declining portion of the surge before the beginning of deviation is a function of multiple growing follicles that require the decreasing FSH. During this time, all follicles of the wave have the potential for future dominance. Deviation begins when the two largest follicles on average are 8.5 and 7.7 mm in cattle and 22.5 and 19.0 mm in horses or about 3 days after the FSH peak in both species. The FSH/follicle relationship is close so that a change in one event soon causes a detectable change in the other. Thus, the difference in diameter between the two largest follicles at the beginning of deviation is compatible with rapid establishment of the destiny of the two follicles before the second-largest follicle can also show dominance. The deviation mechanism is initiated when FSH concentrations are low and the most advanced follicle reaches a specific developmental stage. In cattle, the future dominant follicle develops greater LH-receptor expression than the other follicles about 8 h before the beginning of diameter deviation. Estradiol and free IGF-1 begin to establish higher concentrations in the future dominant follicle than in other follicles and activin-A is transiently elevated in both follicles a few hours before the beginning of diameter deviation. In horses, estradiol, free IGF-1, activin-A, and inhibin-A begin to increase differentially in the future dominant follicle about 1 day before deviation. These changes underlie a greater responsiveness to LH and FSH by the developing dominant follicle than for other follicles, thereby accounting for deviation. Results of in vitro studies, although frequently done in other species, support this conclusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- O J Ginther
- Eutheria Foundation, 4343 Garfoot Road, Cross Plains, WI 53528, USA.
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50
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Knight PG, Glister C. Local roles of TGF-beta superfamily members in the control of ovarian follicle development. Anim Reprod Sci 2003; 78:165-83. [PMID: 12818643 DOI: 10.1016/s0378-4320(03)00089-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 206] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Members of the transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta) superfamily have wide-ranging influences on many tissue and organ systems including the ovary. Two recently discovered TGF-beta superfamily members, growth/differentiation factor-9 (GDF-9) and bone morphogenetic protein-15 (BMP-15; also designated as GDF-9B) are expressed in an oocyte-specific manner from a very early stage and play a key role in promoting follicle growth beyond the primary stage. Follicle growth to the small antral stage does not require gonadotrophins but appears to be driven by local autocrine/paracrine signals from both somatic cell types (granulosa and theca) and from the oocyte. TGF-beta superfamily members expressed by follicular cells and implicated in this phase of follicle development include TGF-beta, activin, GDF-9/9B and several BMPs. Acquisition of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) responsiveness is a pre-requisite for growth beyond the small antral stage and evidence indicates an autocrine role for granulosa-derived activin in promoting granulosa cell proliferation, FSH receptor expression and aromatase activity. Indeed, some of the effects of FSH on granulosa cells may be mediated by endogenous activin. At the same time, activin may act on theca cells to attenuate luteinizing hormone (LH)-dependent androgen production in small to medium-size antral follicles. Dominant follicle selection appears to depend on differential FSH sensitivity amongst a growing cohort of small antral follicles. Activin may contribute to this selection process by sensitizing those follicles with the highest "activin tone" to FSH. Production of inhibin, like oestradiol, increases in selected dominant follicles, in an FSH- and insulin-like growth factor-dependent manner and may exert a paracrine action on theca cells to upregulate LH-induced secretion of androgen, an essential requirement for further oestradiol secretion by the pre-ovulatory follicle. Like activin, BMP-4 and -7 (mostly from theca), and BMP-6 (mostly from oocyte), can enhance oestradiol and inhibin secretion by bovine granulosa cells while suppressing progesterone secretion; this suggests a functional role in delaying follicle luteinization and/or atresia. Follistatin, on the other hand, may favor luteinization and/or atresia by bio-neutralizing intrafollicular activin and BMPs. Activin receptors are expressed by the oocyte and activin may have a further intrafollicular role in the terminal stages of follicle differentiation to promote oocyte maturation and developmental competence. In a reciprocal manner, oocyte-derived GDF-9/9B may act on the surrounding cumulus granulosa cells to attenuate oestradiol output and promote progesterone and hyaluronic acid production, mucification and cumulus expansion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip G Knight
- School of Animal and Microbial Sciences, University of Reading, Whiteknights, Reading RG6 6AJ, UK.
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