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Ren P, Tong X, Li J, Jiang H, Liu S, Li X, Lai M, Yang W, Rong Y, Zhang Y, Jin J, Ma Y, Pan W, Fan HY, Zhang S, Zhang YL. CRL4 DCAF13 E3 ubiquitin ligase targets MeCP2 for degradation to prevent DNA hypermethylation and ensure normal transcription in growing oocytes. Cell Mol Life Sci 2024; 81:165. [PMID: 38578457 PMCID: PMC10997554 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-024-05185-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
The DNA methylation is gradually acquired during oogenesis, a process sustained by successful follicle development. However, the functional roles of methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MeCP2), an epigenetic regulator displaying specifical binding with methylated DNA, remains unknown in oogenesis. In this study, we found MeCP2 protein was highly expressed in primordial and primary follicle, but was almost undetectable in secondary follicles. However, in aged ovary, MeCP2 protein is significantly increased in both oocyte and granulosa cells. Overexpression of MeCP2 in growing oocyte caused transcription dysregulation, DNA hypermethylation, and genome instability, ultimately leading to follicle growth arrest and apoptosis. MeCP2 is targeted by DCAF13, a substrate recognition adaptor of the Cullin 4-RING (CRL4) E3 ligase, and polyubiquitinated for degradation in both cells and oocytes. Dcaf13-null oocyte exhibited an accumulation of MeCP2 protein, and the partial rescue of follicle growth arrest induced by Dcaf13 deletion was observed following MeCP2 knockdown. The RNA-seq results revealed that large amounts of genes were regulated by the DCAF13-MeCP2 axis in growing oocytes. Our study demonstrated that CRL4DCAF13 E3 ubiquitin ligase targets MeCP2 for degradation to ensure normal DNA methylome and transcription in growing oocytes. Moreover, in aged ovarian follicles, deceased DCAF13 and DDB1 protein were observed, indicating a potential novel mechanism that regulates ovary aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peipei Ren
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310016, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiaomei Tong
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310016, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Junjian Li
- College of Life and Environmental Science, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Huifang Jiang
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310016, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Siya Liu
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310016, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiang Li
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310016, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Mengru Lai
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310016, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Weijie Yang
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310016, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yan Rong
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310016, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yingyi Zhang
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310016, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jiamin Jin
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310016, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yerong Ma
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310016, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Weiwei Pan
- Department of Cell Biology, College of Medicine, Jiaxing University, Jiaxing, 314001, China
| | - Heng-Yu Fan
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
- Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Songying Zhang
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310016, China.
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Yin-Li Zhang
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310016, China.
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China.
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Ozturk S. The close relationship between oocyte aging and telomere shortening, and possible interventions for telomere protection. Mech Ageing Dev 2024; 218:111913. [PMID: 38307343 DOI: 10.1016/j.mad.2024.111913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/04/2024]
Abstract
As women delay childbearing due to socioeconomic reasons, understanding molecular mechanisms decreasing oocyte quantity and quality during ovarian aging becomes increasingly important. The ovary undergoes biological aging at a higher pace when compared to other organs. As is known, telomeres play crucial roles in maintaining genomic integrity, and their shortening owing to increased reactive oxygen species, consecutive cellular divisions, genetic and epigenetic alterations is associated with loss of developmental competence of oocytes. Novel interventions such as antioxidant treatments and regulation of gene expression are being investigated to prevent or rescue telomere attrition and thereby oocyte aging. Herein, potential factors and molecular mechanisms causing telomere shortening in aging oocytes were comprehensively reviewed. For the purpose of extending reproductive lifespan, possible therapeutic interventions to protect telomere length were also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saffet Ozturk
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Akdeniz University School of Medicine, Antalya, Turkey.
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Jiang Z, Shi C, Han H, Fu M, Zhu H, Han T, Fei J, Huang Y, Jin Z, He J, Wang Y, Chen X, Shen H. Autologous non-invasively derived stem cells mitochondria transfer shows therapeutic advantages in human embryo quality rescue. Biol Res 2023; 56:60. [PMID: 37978575 PMCID: PMC10657142 DOI: 10.1186/s40659-023-00470-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The decline in the quantity and quality of mitochondria are closely associated with infertility, particularly in advanced maternal age. Transferring autologous mitochondria into the oocytes of infertile females represents an innovative and viable strategy for treating infertility, with no concerns regarding ethical considerations. As the donor cells of mitochondria, stem cells have biological advantages but research and evidence in this area are quite scarce. METHODS To screen out suitable human autologous ooplasmic mitochondrial donor cells, we performed comprehensive assessment of mitochondrial physiology, function and metabolic capacity on a varity of autologous adipose, marrow, and urine-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (ADSC, BMSC and USC) and ovarian germline granulosa cells (GC). Further, to explore the biosafety, effect and mechanism of stem cell-derived mitochondria transfer on human early embryo development, randomized in-vitro basic studies were performed in both of the young and aged oocytes from infertile females. RESULTS Compared with other types of mesenchymal stromal cells, USC demonstrated a non-fused spherical mitochondrial morphology and low oxidative stress status which resembled the oocyte stage. Moreover, USC mitochondrial content, activity and function were all higher than other cell types and less affected by age, and it also exhibited a biphasic metabolic pattern similar to the pre-implantation stage of embryonic development. After the biosafety identification of the USC mitochondrial genome, early embryos after USC mitochondrial transfer showed improvements in mitochondrial content, activity, and cytoplasmic Ca2+ levels. Further, aging embryos also showed improvements in embryonic morphological indicators, euploidy rates, and oxidative stress status. CONCLUSION Autologous non-invasively derived USC mitochondria transfer may be an effective strategy to improve embryonic development and metabolism, especially in infertile females with advanced age or repeated pregnancy failure. It provides evidence and possibility for the autologous treatment of infertile females without invasive and ethical concerns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhixin Jiang
- Reproductive Medical Center, Peking University People's Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, 100044, China
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200135, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, 200135, China
| | - Cheng Shi
- Reproductive Medical Center, Peking University People's Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, 100044, China
| | - Hongjing Han
- Reproductive Medical Center, Peking University People's Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, 100044, China
| | - Min Fu
- Reproductive Medical Center, Peking University People's Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, 100044, China
| | - Honglan Zhu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University People's Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, 100044, China
| | - Tingting Han
- Peking University Institute of Hematology, National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Disease, Beijing Key Laboratory of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation, Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Peking University People's Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, 100044, China
| | - Jia Fei
- Peking Jabrehoo Med Tech Co., Ltd, Beijing, 102629, China
| | - Yining Huang
- Peking Jabrehoo Med Tech Co., Ltd, Beijing, 102629, China
| | - Zhiping Jin
- Peking Jabrehoo Med Tech Co., Ltd, Beijing, 102629, China
| | - Jianan He
- Peking Jabrehoo Med Tech Co., Ltd, Beijing, 102629, China
| | - Yanbin Wang
- Reproductive Medical Center, Peking University People's Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, 100044, China.
| | - Xi Chen
- Reproductive Medical Center, Peking University People's Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, 100044, China.
| | - Huan Shen
- Reproductive Medical Center, Peking University People's Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, 100044, China.
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Jueraitetibaike K, Tang T, Ma R, Zhao S, Wu R, Yang Y, Huang X, Cheng X, Zhou C, Zhang H, Zheng L, Ge X, Chen L, Yao B. MiR-425-5p suppression of Crebzf regulates oocyte aging via chromatin modification. GeroScience 2023:10.1007/s11357-023-00875-6. [PMID: 37532927 DOI: 10.1007/s11357-023-00875-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Female infertility due to declining oocyte quality with age remains a significant challenge for patients and physicians, despite extensive research efforts. Recent studies suggest that microRNAs (miRNAs), which respond to various stressors in the aging process, may provide a promising solution. With the approval of small RNA drugs for clinical use, miRNA-based treatment of oocyte aging appears to be a viable option. Through high-throughput sequencing, miR-425-5p was identified as the only miRNA elevated under natural aging and oxidative stress. Microinjection of inhibitors to inhibit miR-425-5p effectively improved compromised phenotypes of old oocytes in vitro. Further investigation revealed that Crebzf acts as a mediator of miR-425-5p's age-related functions in old oocytes. In vivo treatment with miR-425-5p antagomirs significantly improved impaired oocyte development in reproductively old females by targeting Crebzf. Single-cell RNA sequencing revealed that Crebzf plays a vital role in regulating mRNAs targeting histone H3, trimethylated lysine 4 (H3K4me3), a crucial marker for transcriptional silencing. Overexpression of miR-425-5p could hinder oocyte maturation by downregulating Crebzf expression and disrupting transcriptional regulation. Our findings provide new insights into the potential of miR-425-5p antagomirs as a treatment for female infertility and highlight an elegant mechanism by which miR-425-5p inhibition of Crebzf inhibits a developmental switch in GV oocytes by regulating a group of histone methyltransferase mRNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kadiliya Jueraitetibaike
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Jinling Hospital: East Region Military Command General Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210002, People's Republic of China
| | - Ting Tang
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Jinling Hospital: East Region Military Command General Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210002, People's Republic of China
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, People's Republic of China
| | - Rujun Ma
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Jinling Hospital: East Region Military Command General Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210002, People's Republic of China
| | - Shanmeizi Zhao
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Molecular and Medical Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, 210002, People's Republic of China
| | - Ronghua Wu
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Jinling Hospital: East Region Military Command General Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210002, People's Republic of China
| | - Yang Yang
- Basic Medical Laboratory, Institute of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Jinling Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210002, People's Republic of China
| | - Xuan Huang
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Jinling Hospital: East Region Military Command General Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210002, People's Republic of China
| | - Xi Cheng
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Jinling Hospital: East Region Military Command General Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210002, People's Republic of China
| | - Cheng Zhou
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Jinling Hospital: East Region Military Command General Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210002, People's Republic of China
| | - Hong Zhang
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Jinling Hospital: East Region Military Command General Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210002, People's Republic of China
| | - Lu Zheng
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Jinling Hospital: East Region Military Command General Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210002, People's Republic of China
| | - Xie Ge
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Jinling Hospital: East Region Military Command General Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210002, People's Republic of China
| | - Li Chen
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Jinling Hospital: East Region Military Command General Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210002, People's Republic of China.
| | - Bing Yao
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Jinling Hospital: East Region Military Command General Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210002, People's Republic of China.
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, People's Republic of China.
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5
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Wang H, Xu J, Li H, Chen W, Zeng X, Sun Y, Yang Q. Alpha-ketoglutarate supplementation ameliorates ovarian reserve and oocyte quality decline with aging in mice. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2023; 571:111935. [PMID: 37098377 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2023.111935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Revised: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/27/2023]
Abstract
Assisted reproductive technology is widely accepted as an effective treatment to improve female fertility, but the decline of aging oocyte quality remains an important factor in the decrease of female fecundity. However, the effective strategies for improving oocyte aging are still not well understood. In the study, we demonstrated that ROS content and abnormal spindle proportion were increased and mitochondrial membrane potential was decreased in aging oocytes. However, supplementation of α-ketoglutarate (α-KG), an immediate metabolite in the tricarboxylic acid cycle (TCA), for 4 months to aging mice, significantly increased the ovarian reserve showed by more follicle numbers observed. In addition, the oocyte quality was significantly improved, as demonstrated by reduced fragmentation rate and decreased reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, in addition to a lower rate of abnormal spindle assembly, thereby improving the mitochondrial membrane potential. Consistent with the in vivo data, α-KG administration also improved the post-ovulated aging oocyte quality and early embryonic development by improving mitochondrial functions and reducing ROS accumulation and abnormal spindle assembly. Our data revealed that α-KG supplementation might be an effective strategy to improve the quality of aging oocytes in vivo or in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huan Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China; Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China; Henan Province Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases (Reproductive Medicine) Clinical Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jianmin Xu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China; Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China; Henan Province Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases (Reproductive Medicine) Clinical Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Hui Li
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China; Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China; Henan Province Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases (Reproductive Medicine) Clinical Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Wenhui Chen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China; Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China; Henan Province Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases (Reproductive Medicine) Clinical Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xinxin Zeng
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China; Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China; Henan Province Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases (Reproductive Medicine) Clinical Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yingpu Sun
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China; Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China; Henan Province Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases (Reproductive Medicine) Clinical Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.
| | - Qingling Yang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China; Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China; Henan Province Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases (Reproductive Medicine) Clinical Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.
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6
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Lin T, Sun L, Lee JE, Kim SY, Jin DI. DNA damage repair is suppressed in porcine aged oocytes. J Anim Sci Technol 2021; 63:984-997. [PMID: 34796342 PMCID: PMC8564305 DOI: 10.5187/jast.2021.e90] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Revised: 07/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
This study sought to evaluate DNA damage and repair in porcine postovulatory aged
oocytes. The DNA damage response, which was assessed by H2A.X expression,
increased in porcine aged oocytes over time. However, the aged oocytes exhibited
a significant decrease in the expression of RAD51, which reflects the DNA damage
repair capacity. Further experiments suggested that the DNA repair ability was
suppressed by the downregulation of genes involved in the homologous
recombination (HR) and nonhomologous end-joining (NHEJ) pathways. The expression
levels of the cell cycle checkpoint genes, CHEK1 and
CHEK2, were upregulated in porcine aged oocytes in response
to induced DNA damage. Immunofluorescence results revealed that the expression
level of H3K79me2 was significantly lower in porcine aged oocytes than in
control oocytes. In addition, embryo quality was significantly reduced in aged
oocytes, as assessed by measuring the cell proliferation capacity. Our results
provide evidence that DNA damage is increased and the DNA repair ability is
suppressed in porcine aged oocytes. These findings increase our understanding of
the events that occur during postovulatory oocyte aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Lin
- School of Life Sciences and Food Engineering, Hebei University of Engineering, Handan 056038, China.,Division of Animal & Dairy Science, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Korea
| | - Ling Sun
- School of Life Sciences and Food Engineering, Hebei University of Engineering, Handan 056038, China.,Division of Animal & Dairy Science, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Korea
| | - Jae Eun Lee
- Division of Animal & Dairy Science, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Korea
| | - So Yeon Kim
- Division of Animal & Dairy Science, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Korea
| | - Dong Il Jin
- Division of Animal & Dairy Science, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Korea
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Abstract
As the vital organelles for cell energy metabolism, mitochondria are essential for oocyte maturation, fertilization, and embryo development. Abnormalities in quantity, quality, and function of mitochondria are closely related to poor fertility and disorders, such as decreased ovarian reserve (DOR), premature ovarian aging (POA), and ovarian aging, as well as maternal mitochondrial genetic disease caused by mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) mutations or deletions. Mitochondria have begun to become a therapeutic target for infertility caused by factors such as poor oocyte quality, oocyte aging, and maternal mitochondrial genetic diseases. Mitochondrial replacement therapy (MRT) has attempted to use heterologous or autologous mitochondria to rebuild healthy state of oocyte by increasing the amount of mitochondria (e.g., partial ooplasm transfer, autologous mitochondrial transfer), or to stop the transmission of mtDNA diseases by replacing abnormal maternal mitochondria (e.g., pronuclei transfer, spindle transfer, polar body transfer). Among them, autologous mitochondrial transfer is the most promising therapeutic technology as of today which does not involve using a third party, but its clinical efficacy is controversial due to many factors such as the aging phenomenon of germ line cells, the authenticity of the existence of ovarian stem cells (OSC), and secondary damage caused by invasive surgery to patients with poor ovarian function. Therefore, the research of optimal autologous cell type that can be applied in autologous mitochondrial transfer is an area worthy of further exploration. Besides, the quality of germ cells can also be probably improved by the use of compounds that enhance mitochondrial activity (e.g., coenzyme Q10, resveratrol, melatonin), or by innovative gene editing technologies which have shown capability in reducing the risk of mtDNA diseases (e.g., CRISPR/Cas9, TALENTs). Though the current evidences from animal and clinical trials are not sufficient, and some solutions of technical problems are still needed, we believe this review will guide a new direction in the possible clinical applied mitochondrial-related therapeutic strategies in reproductive medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhixin Jiang
- Reproductive Medical Center, Peking University People's Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, 100044, China
| | - Huan Shen
- Reproductive Medical Center, Peking University People's Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, 100044, China.
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8
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Imakubo M, Takayama J, Okada H, Onami S. Statistical image processing quantifies the changes in cytoplasmic texture associated with aging in Caenorhabditis elegans oocytes. BMC Bioinformatics 2021; 22:73. [PMID: 33596821 PMCID: PMC7890843 DOI: 10.1186/s12859-021-03990-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Accepted: 01/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Oocyte quality decreases with aging, thereby increasing errors in fertilization, chromosome segregation, and embryonic cleavage. Oocyte appearance also changes with aging, suggesting a functional relationship between oocyte quality and appearance. However, no methods are available to objectively quantify age-associated changes in oocyte appearance. Results We show that statistical image processing of Nomarski differential interference contrast microscopy images can be used to quantify age-associated changes in oocyte appearance in the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans. Max–min value (mean difference between the maximum and minimum intensities within each moving window) quantitatively characterized the difference in oocyte cytoplasmic texture between 1- and 3-day-old adults (Day 1 and Day 3 oocytes, respectively). With an appropriate parameter set, the gray level co-occurrence matrix (GLCM)-based texture feature Correlation (COR) more sensitively characterized this difference than the Max–min Value. Manipulating the smoothness of and/or adding irregular structures to the cytoplasmic texture of Day 1 oocyte images reproduced the difference in Max–min Value but not in COR between Day 1 and Day 3 oocytes. Increasing the size of granules in synthetic images recapitulated the age-associated changes in COR. Manual measurements validated that the cytoplasmic granules in oocytes become larger with aging. Conclusions The Max–min value and COR objectively quantify age-related changes in C. elegans oocyte in Nomarski DIC microscopy images. Our methods provide new opportunities for understanding the mechanism underlying oocyte aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Momoko Imakubo
- Department of Computational Science, Graduate School of System Informatics, Kobe University, Kobe, Hyogo, 657-8501, Japan.,Laboratory for Developmental Dynamics, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Kobe, Hyogo, 650-0047, Japan.,Laboratory for Developmental Dynamics, RIKEN Quantitative Biology Center, Kobe, Hyogo, 650-0047, Japan
| | - Jun Takayama
- Laboratory for Developmental Dynamics, RIKEN Quantitative Biology Center, Kobe, Hyogo, 650-0047, Japan
| | - Hatsumi Okada
- Laboratory for Developmental Dynamics, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Kobe, Hyogo, 650-0047, Japan.,Laboratory for Developmental Dynamics, RIKEN Quantitative Biology Center, Kobe, Hyogo, 650-0047, Japan
| | - Shuichi Onami
- Department of Computational Science, Graduate School of System Informatics, Kobe University, Kobe, Hyogo, 657-8501, Japan. .,Laboratory for Developmental Dynamics, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Kobe, Hyogo, 650-0047, Japan. .,Laboratory for Developmental Dynamics, RIKEN Quantitative Biology Center, Kobe, Hyogo, 650-0047, Japan.
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9
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Soares M, Sousa AP, Fernandes R, Ferreira AF, Almeida-Santos T, Ramalho-Santos J. Aging-related mitochondrial alterations in bovine oocytes. Theriogenology 2020; 157:218-225. [PMID: 32814249 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.07.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2020] [Revised: 07/28/2020] [Accepted: 07/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Advanced maternal age is an emerging health problem which involves many functional and structural alterations in oocytes, and its study is relevant to design better approaches to improve the reproductive function in women of advanced age. A constraint to this type of studies is the limited amount of samples and the ethical problems of working with human gametes. This study aims to characterize the in vitro-induced age-related modifications in a bovine model, as well as to determine if this model is a reliable approach to study human aging. For this purpose, we have focused on aging-related alterations related to oocyte mitochondrial dysfunction, a key hallmark in aging. Morphological and bioenergetic in vitro-induced alterations in bovine oocytes were compared to an in vivo aged group and to the already reported information regarding humans and other animal models. Parameters monitored included ooplasmic volume; mitochondrial mass, distribution and aggregation, assessed by MitoTracker Green; mitochondrial activity, monitored by JC-1; and the mitochondrial levels of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), quantified using MitoPY. Results show a significant decrease in oocyte cytoplasmic volume after both in vitro and in vivo aging (p < 0.001). Additionally, the levels of H2O2 increased significantly after in vitro and in vivo aging (p < 0.001) and mitochondrial aggregation patterns were significantly different after 30 h of in vitro maturation, with MII oocytes presenting small aggregates inside the cytoplasm, whereas aged oocytes had a lack of granularity (p < 0.001). In contrast, there were no differences between the different aging groups in terms of mitochondrial mass, distribution and activity. In conclusion, this in vitro approach of inducing aging-related alterations may be considered as a reliable approach to study the aging process in human female gametes, since it causes the same types of alterations in both species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Soares
- CNC - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Celas, 3004-504, University of Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ana Paula Sousa
- CNC - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Celas, 3004-504, University of Coimbra, Portugal; Reproductive Medicine Unit, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Praceta, R. Prof. Mota Pinto, 3004-561, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Raquel Fernandes
- CNC - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Celas, 3004-504, University of Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ana Filipa Ferreira
- Reproductive Medicine Unit, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Praceta, R. Prof. Mota Pinto, 3004-561, Coimbra, Portugal; University of Coimbra, Faculty of Medicine, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Celas, 3000-548, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Teresa Almeida-Santos
- CNC - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Celas, 3004-504, University of Coimbra, Portugal; Reproductive Medicine Unit, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Praceta, R. Prof. Mota Pinto, 3004-561, Coimbra, Portugal; University of Coimbra, Faculty of Medicine, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Celas, 3000-548, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - João Ramalho-Santos
- CNC - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Celas, 3004-504, University of Coimbra, Portugal; University of Coimbra, Department of Life Sciences, Calçada Martim de Freitas, 3000-456, Coimbra, Portugal.
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10
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Jiang WJ, Yao XR, Zhao YH, Gao QS, Jin QG, Li YH, Yan AG, Xu YN. L-carnitine prevents bovine oocyte aging and promotes subsequent embryonic development. J Reprod Dev 2019; 65:499-506. [PMID: 31474647 PMCID: PMC6923151 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2019-046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2019] [Accepted: 08/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
L-carnitine (LC) is well known for its antioxidant activity. In this study, we explored the potential mechanistic effects of LC supplementation on aged bovine oocytes in vitro. We showed that in-vitro maturation could enhance the subsequent developmental capacity of aging oocytes, when supplemented with LC. After in vitro fertilization, the blastocyst formation rate in the aged oocytes post-LC treatment significantly increased compared to that in untreated aged oocytes (29.23 ± 2.20% vs. 20.90 ± 3.05%). Furthermore, after LC treatment, the level of intracellular reactive oxygen species in aged oocytes significantly decreased, and glutathione levels significantly increased, compared to those in untreated aged oocytes. Mitochondrial membrane potential, the percentage of early apoptotic oocytes, and caspase-3 activity were significantly reduced in LC-treated aged oocytes compared to those in untreated aged oocytes. Furthermore, during in vitro aging, the mRNA levels of the anti-apoptotic genes, Bcl-xl and survivin in LC-treated aged oocytes were significantly higher than those in untreated aged oocytes. Overall, these results indicate that at least in in vitro conditions, LC can prevent the aging of bovine oocytes and improve the developmental capacity of bovine embryo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Jie Jiang
- College of Agriculture, Yanbian University, Yanji 133000, China
- Engineering Research Center of Yanbian Yellow Cattle Resources Reservation, Yanji 133000, China
| | - Xue-Rui Yao
- College of Agriculture, Yanbian University, Yanji 133000, China
- Engineering Research Center of Yanbian Yellow Cattle Resources Reservation, Yanji 133000, China
| | - Yu-Han Zhao
- College of Agriculture, Yanbian University, Yanji 133000, China
- Engineering Research Center of Yanbian Yellow Cattle Resources Reservation, Yanji 133000, China
| | - Qing-Shan Gao
- College of Agriculture, Yanbian University, Yanji 133000, China
- Engineering Research Center of Yanbian Yellow Cattle Resources Reservation, Yanji 133000, China
| | - Qing-Guo Jin
- College of Agriculture, Yanbian University, Yanji 133000, China
- Engineering Research Center of Yanbian Yellow Cattle Resources Reservation, Yanji 133000, China
| | - Ying-Hua Li
- College of Agriculture, Yanbian University, Yanji 133000, China
- Engineering Research Center of Yanbian Yellow Cattle Resources Reservation, Yanji 133000, China
| | - Ang-Guo Yan
- College of Agriculture, Yanbian University, Yanji 133000, China
- Engineering Research Center of Yanbian Yellow Cattle Resources Reservation, Yanji 133000, China
| | - Yong-Nan Xu
- College of Agriculture, Yanbian University, Yanji 133000, China
- Engineering Research Center of Yanbian Yellow Cattle Resources Reservation, Yanji 133000, China
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11
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Jiang W, Li Y, Zhao Y, Gao Q, Jin Q, Yan C, Xu Y. l-carnitine supplementation during in vitro culture regulates oxidative stress in embryos from bovine aged oocytes. Theriogenology 2020; 143:64-73. [PMID: 31837632 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2019.11.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2019] [Revised: 11/28/2019] [Accepted: 11/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Aging oocytes undergo various molecular, cellular, and biochemical changes. Aging of oocytes results in reduced embryo developmental capacity and blastocyst quality, which is thought to be caused partly by the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). This study aimed to determine the effect of l-carnitine (LC) on the development of embryos formed from aged oocytes in vitro. The development and quality of the blastocysts in the LC-treated group were significantly higher than those in the untreated aged group after in vitro fertilization (IVF). In addition, after LC treatment, the level of intracellular ROS in aged group significantly decreased, and glutathione (GSH) levels significantly increased compared with those in the untreated aged group. There was no significant difference in the mitochondrial membrane potential among the three groups. Moreover, ROS could induce autophagy and LC3 antibody was widely used as a marker for detecting autophagy. The fluorescence intensity of LC3 in the aged group was significantly higher than that of LC3 in the LC-treated group. Furthermore, Real-time reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction showed that the mRNA levels of antioxidation genes GPX4 and SOD1 were significantly higher in embryos from LC-treated group than in those from the untreated aged group. In summary, our results indicated that LC can improve the developmental capacity of embryos from aging oocytes in vitro by reducing oxidative stress.
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12
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Yao X, Jiang H, Liang S, Shen X, Gao Q, Xu YN, Kim NH. Laminarin enhances the quality of aged pig oocytes by reducing oxidative stress. J Reprod Dev 2018; 64:489-494. [PMID: 30270255 PMCID: PMC6305855 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2018-031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2018] [Accepted: 08/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Laminarin (LAM) is a β-glucan oligomer known to possess biological activities such as anticancer and antioxidant effects. This study explored the influence of LAM supplementation on in vitro aged porcine oocytes and the underlying mechanisms behind this influence. We found that LAM delayed the aging process and improved the quality of aged oocytes. LAM supplementation enhanced the subsequent developmental competence of aged oocytes during the in vitro aging process. The blastocyst formation rate was significantly increased in aged oocytes treated with 20 µg/ml LAM compared to non-treated aged oocytes (45.3% vs. 28.7%, P < 0.01). The mRNA levels of apoptosis-related genes, B cell lymphoma-2-associated X protein (Bax) and Caspase-3, were significantly lower in blastocysts derived from the LAM-treated aged oocytes during the in vitro aging process. Furthermore, the level of intracellular reactive oxygen species was significantly decreased and that of glutathione was significantly increased in aged oocytes following LAM treatment. Mitochondrial membrane potential was increased, and the activities of caspase-3 and cathepsin B were significantly reduced in the LAM-treated aged oocytes compared with the non-treated aged oocytes. Taken together, these results suggest that LAM is beneficial for delaying the aging process in porcine oocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuerui Yao
- College of Agriculture, Yanbian University, Yanji 133000, China
- Department of Animal Science, Chungbuk National University, Chungbuk 361-763, Republic of Korea
| | - Hao Jiang
- Department of Animal Science, Chungbuk National University, Chungbuk 361-763, Republic of Korea
- College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Jilin 130062, China
| | - Shuang Liang
- College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Jilin 130062, China
| | - Xinghui Shen
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150081, China
| | - Qingshan Gao
- College of Agriculture, Yanbian University, Yanji 133000, China
| | - Yong Nan Xu
- College of Agriculture, Yanbian University, Yanji 133000, China
| | - Nam-Hyung Kim
- Department of Animal Science, Chungbuk National University, Chungbuk 361-763, Republic of Korea
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13
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Liang S, Jiang H, Shen XH, Zhang JB, Kim NH. Inhibition of cathepsin B activity prevents deterioration in the quality of in vitro aged porcine oocytes. Theriogenology 2018; 116:103-111. [PMID: 29800805 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2018.04.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2018] [Revised: 04/29/2018] [Accepted: 04/30/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The activity of cathepsin B, a member of the lysosomal protease family, directly correlates with oocyte quality and subsequent embryonic development. However, its biological function during the progression of in vitro aging of oocytes in pigs has not been demonstrated. Here, we showed that cathepsin B activity was dramatically increased during in vitro aged oocytes. The inhibition of cathepsin B activity prevented the decline of the quality of aged oocytes and improved their subsequent developmental competence. Moreover, the inhibition of cathepsin B activity reduced aging-induced mitochondrial dysfunction and attenuated oxidative stress. The inhibition of cathepsin B activity also markedly decreased early apoptosis levels and the frequency of spindle anomalies during in vitro aging of oocytes. These results demonstrate that in vitro aging of oocytes induces cathepsin B activity, which is associated with a decline in oocyte quality. The inhibition of cathepsin B activity has a beneficial effect on oocytes during the process of in vitro aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuang Liang
- Department of Animal Science, College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, 130062, China; Department of Animal Science, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Chungbuk, 361-763, Republic of Korea
| | - Hao Jiang
- Department of Animal Science, College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, 130062, China; Department of Animal Science, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Chungbuk, 361-763, Republic of Korea
| | - Xing-Hui Shen
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, China
| | - Jia-Bao Zhang
- Department of Animal Science, College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, 130062, China
| | - Nam-Hyung Kim
- Department of Animal Science, College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, 130062, China; Department of Animal Science, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Chungbuk, 361-763, Republic of Korea.
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14
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Kanda A, Nobukiyo A, Yoshioka M, Hatakeyama T, Sotomaru Y. Quality of common marmoset (Callithrix jacchus) oocytes collected after ovarian stimulation. Theriogenology 2017; 106:221-226. [PMID: 29096269 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2017.10.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2017] [Revised: 10/13/2017] [Accepted: 10/15/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
The common marmoset (Callithrix jacchus) is an experimental animal that is considered suitable for the creation of next-generation human disease models. It has recently been used in the reproductive technology field. Oocytes can be effectively collected from female marmosets via ovarian stimulation with injections of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). The oocytes, collected about 28 h after the hCG injection, include both premature oocytes and postmature (in vivo matured; IVO) oocytes, and the premature oocytes can be matured by in vitro culture (in vitro matured; IVM). Although IVM and IVO oocytes are equivalent in appearance at the MII stage, it remains unclear whether there are differences in their properties. Therefore, we investigated their in vitro fertilization and developmental capacities and cytoskeletal statuses. Our findings revealed that the IVM and IVO oocytes had similar fertilization rates but that no IVO oocytes could develop to the blastocyst stage. Additionally, IVO oocytes showed abnormal cytoskeletal formation. It is concluded that IVM oocytes maintain normal function, whereas IVO oocytes would be affected by aging and other factors when they remain for a long time in the ovary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akifumi Kanda
- Natural Science Center for Basic Research and Development, Hiroshima University, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minami-ku, Hiroshima 734-8551, Japan
| | - Asako Nobukiyo
- Natural Science Center for Basic Research and Development, Hiroshima University, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minami-ku, Hiroshima 734-8551, Japan
| | - Miyuki Yoshioka
- Natural Science Center for Basic Research and Development, Hiroshima University, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minami-ku, Hiroshima 734-8551, Japan
| | - Teruhiko Hatakeyama
- Natural Science Center for Basic Research and Development, Hiroshima University, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minami-ku, Hiroshima 734-8551, Japan
| | - Yusuke Sotomaru
- Natural Science Center for Basic Research and Development, Hiroshima University, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minami-ku, Hiroshima 734-8551, Japan.
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15
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Igarashi H, Takahashi T, Nagase S. Oocyte aging underlies female reproductive aging: biological mechanisms and therapeutic strategies. Reprod Med Biol 2015; 14:159-69. [PMID: 29259413 DOI: 10.1007/s12522-015-0209-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2014] [Accepted: 04/23/2015] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent years, postponement of marriage and childbearing in women of reproductive age has led to an increase in the incidence of age-related infertility. The reproductive aging process in women is assumed to occur due to a decrease in both the quantity and quality of the oocytes, with the ultimate result being a decline in fecundity. This age-related decline in fecundity is strongly dependent on oocyte quality, which is critical for fertilization and subsequent embryo development. Aged oocytes display increased chromosomal abnormality and dysfunction of cellular organelles, both of which factor into oocyte quality. In particular, mitochondrial dysfunction has been suggested as a major contributor to the reduction in oocyte quality as well as to chromosomal abnormalities in aged oocytes and embryos. Participation of oxidative stress in the oocyte aging process has been proposed because oxidative stress has the capacity to induce mitochondrial dysfunction and directly damage many intracellular components of the oocytes such as lipids, protein, and DNA. In an attempt to improve mitochondrial function in aged oocytes, several therapeutic strategies have been investigated using both animal models and assisted reproductive technology. Here, we review the biological mechanisms and present status of therapeutic strategies in the female reproductive aging field and indicate possible future therapeutic strategies.
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Takahashi T, Igarashi H, Amita M, Hara S, Kurachi H. Cellular and molecular mechanisms of various types of oocyte aging. Reprod Med Biol 2011; 10:239-249. [PMID: 29699098 DOI: 10.1007/s12522-011-0099-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2011] [Accepted: 06/16/2011] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
It is well established that age-related decline of a woman's fertility is related to the poor developmental potential of her gametes. The age-associated decline in female fertility is largely attributable to the oocyte aging caused by ovarian aging. Age-associated oocyte aging results in a decrease in oocyte quality. In contrast to ovarian aging, there is a concept of postovulatory oocyte aging. Postovulatory aging of oocytes, not being fertilized for a prolonged time after ovulation, is known to significantly affect the development of oocytes. Both categories of oocyte aging have similar phenotypes of reproductive failure. However, the mechanisms of the decline in oocyte quality are not necessarily equivalent. An age-dependent increase in aneuploidy is a key determinant of oocyte quality. The reduced expression of molecules regulating cell cycle control during meiosis might be involved in the age-dependent increase in aneuploidy. The mechanism of age-associated oocyte aging might be involved in mitochondrial dysfunction, whose etiologies are still unknown. Alternatively, the mechanism of postovulatory oocyte aging might be involved in reactive oxygen species-induced mitochondrial injury pathways followed by abnormal intracellular Ca2+ regulation of the endoplasmic reticulum. We suggest that future research into the mechanism of oocyte aging will be necessary to develop a method to rescue the poor developmental potential of aged oocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toshifumi Takahashi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Yamagata University Faculty of Medicine 990-9585 Yamagata Japan
| | - Hideki Igarashi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Yamagata University Faculty of Medicine 990-9585 Yamagata Japan
| | - Mitsuyoshi Amita
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Yamagata University Faculty of Medicine 990-9585 Yamagata Japan
| | - Shuichiro Hara
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Yamagata University Faculty of Medicine 990-9585 Yamagata Japan
| | - Hirohisa Kurachi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Yamagata University Faculty of Medicine 990-9585 Yamagata Japan
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