Spermatozoa have a highly complex RNA profile.Several of these transcripts are suggested as biomarkers for male infertility and contribute to early development.To analyze the differences between sperm RNA quantity and...Spermatozoa have a highly complex RNA profile.Several of these transcripts are suggested as biomarkers for male infertility and contribute to early development.To analyze the differences between sperm RNA quantity and expression of protamine(PRM1 and PRM2)and testis-specific histone 2B(TH2B)genes,spermatozoa from 33 patients who enrolled in assisted reproduction treatment(ART)program were analyzed.Sperm RNA of teratozoospermic(T),oligoteratozoospermic(OT),and normozoospermic(N)samples was extracted,and the differences in transcript levels among the study groups were analyzed by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction(qRT-PCR).The correlations of total RNA per spermatozoon and the expression of the transcripts were evaluated in relation to sperm characteristics and preimplantation embryo development.The mean(±standard deviation)RNA amount per spermatozoon was 28.48(±23.03)femtogram in the overall group and was significantly higher in the OT group than that in N and T groups.Total sperm RNA and gene expression of PRM1 and PRM2 genes were related to preimplantation embryo development and developmental arrest.Specific sperm characteristics were correlated with the expressions of PRM1,PRM2,or TH2B genes.We conclude that the sperm RNA amount and composition are important factors and might influence early embryonic development and also differ in different cases of male infertility.展开更多
Spatial transcriptomics technology provides novel insights into the spatial organization of gene expression during embryonic development.In this study,we propose a method that integrates analysis across both temporal ...Spatial transcriptomics technology provides novel insights into the spatial organization of gene expression during embryonic development.In this study,we propose a method that integrates analysis across both temporal and spatial dimensions to investigate spatial transcriptomics data from mouse embryos at different developmental stages.We quantified the spatial expression pattern of each gene at various stages by calculating its Moran’s I.Furthermore,by employing time-series clustering to identify dynamic co-expression modules,we identified several developmentally stage-specific regulatory gene modules.A key finding was the presence of distinct,stage-specific gene network modules across different developmental periods:Early modules focused on morphogenesis,mid-stage on organ development,and late-stage on neural and tissue maturation.Functional enrichment analysis further confirmed the core biological functions of each module.The dynamic,spatially-resolved gene expression model constructed in this study not only provides new biological insights into the programmed spatiotemporal reorganization of gene regulatory networks during embryonic development but also presents an effective approach for analyzing complex spatiotemporal omics data.This work provides a new perspective for understanding developmental biology,regenerative medicine,and related fields.展开更多
The oviduct epithelium is the initial maternal contact site for embryos after fertilization,offering the microenviron-ment before implantation.This early gestation period is particularly sensitive to stress,which can ...The oviduct epithelium is the initial maternal contact site for embryos after fertilization,offering the microenviron-ment before implantation.This early gestation period is particularly sensitive to stress,which can cause reduced fertil-ity and reproductive disorders in mammals.Nevertheless,the local impact of elevated stress hormones on the ovi-duct epithelium has received limited attention to date,except for a few reports on polyovulatory species like mice and pigs.In this study,we focused on the effects of chronic maternal stress on cattle,given its association with infertil-ity issues in this monoovulatory species.Bovine oviduct epithelial cells(BOEC)differentiated at the air–liquid interface(ALI)were stimulated with 250 nmol/L cortisol for 1 or 3 weeks.Subsequently,they were assessed for morphology,bioelectrical properties,and gene expression related to oviduct function,glucocorticoid pathway,cortisol metabo-lism,inflammation,and apoptosis.Results revealed adverse effects of cortisol on epithelium structure,featured by deciliation,vacuole formation,and multilayering.Additionally,cortisol exposure led to an increase in transepithelial potential difference,downregulated mRNA expression of the major glucocorticoid receptor(NR3C1),upregulated the expression of cortisol-responsive genes(FKBP5,TSC22D3),and significant downregulation of oviductal glycopro-tein 1(OVGP1)and steroid receptors PGR and ESR1.The systematic comparison to a similar experiment previously performed by us in porcine oviduct epithelial cells,indicated that bovine cultures were more susceptible to elevated cortisol levels than porcine.The distinct responses between both species are likely linked to their divergence in the cortisol-induced expression changes of HSD11B2,an enzyme controlling the cellular capacity to metabolise cortisol.These findings provide insights into the species-specific reactions and reproductive consequences triggered by maternal stress.展开更多
Human cytomegalovirus(HCMV)poses a significant risk of neural damage during pregnancy.As the most prevalent intrauterine infectious agent in low-and middle-income countries,HCMV disrupts the development of neural stem...Human cytomegalovirus(HCMV)poses a significant risk of neural damage during pregnancy.As the most prevalent intrauterine infectious agent in low-and middle-income countries,HCMV disrupts the development of neural stem cells,leading to fetal malformations and abnormal structural and physiological functions in the fetal brain.This review summarizes the current understanding of how HCMV infection dysregulates the Wnt signaling pathway to induce fetal malformations and discusses current management strategies.展开更多
Following the publication of Xu et al.(2022),an error was identified in Figure 1D.Specifically,the top left panel was inadvertently duplicated during figure preparation.To ensure the accuracy and integrity of our publ...Following the publication of Xu et al.(2022),an error was identified in Figure 1D.Specifically,the top left panel was inadvertently duplicated during figure preparation.To ensure the accuracy and integrity of our published work,we request the publication of a corrigendum with the corrected image.We apologize for this oversight and any confusion it may have caused.The amended figure is provided in the updated Supplementary Materials.展开更多
Periodontitis is a common oral disease caused by bacteria coupled with an excessive host immune response.Stem cell therapy can be a promising treatment strategy for periodontitis,but the relevant mechanism is complica...Periodontitis is a common oral disease caused by bacteria coupled with an excessive host immune response.Stem cell therapy can be a promising treatment strategy for periodontitis,but the relevant mechanism is complicated.This study aimed to explore the therapeutic potential of mitochondria from human embryonic stem cell-derived mesenchymal stem cells(hESC-MSCs)for the treatment of periodontitis.The gingival tissues of periodontitis patients are characterized by abnormal mitochondrial structure.Human gingival fibroblasts(HGFs)were exposed to 5μg/mL lipopolysaccharide(LPS)for 24 h to establish a cell injury model.When treated with hESC-MSCs or mitochondria derived from hESC-MSCs,HGFs showed reduced expression of inflammatory genes,increased adenosine triphosphate(ATP)level,decreased reactive oxygen species(ROS)production,and enhanced mitochondrial function compared to the control.The average efficiency of isolated mitochondrial transfer by hESC-MSCs was determined to be 8.93%.Besides,a therapy of local mitochondrial injection in mice with LPS-induced periodontitis showed a reduction in inflammatory gene expression,as well as an increase in both the mitochondrial number and the aspect ratio in gingival tissues.In conclusion,our results indicate that mitochondria derived from hESC-MSCs can reduce the inflammatory response and improve mitochondrial function in HGFs,suggesting that the transfer of mitochondria between hESC-MSCs and HGFs serves as a potential mechanism underlying the therapeutic effect of stem cells.展开更多
We investigated the early embryonic and larval development of the concave-eared torrent frogs, Odorrana tormota （Amphibia, Anura, Ranidae）. Embryos were derived from artificial fertilization of frogs’ eggs, and the...We investigated the early embryonic and larval development of the concave-eared torrent frogs, Odorrana tormota （Amphibia, Anura, Ranidae）. Embryos were derived from artificial fertilization of frogs’ eggs, and the staging of development was based on morphological and physiological characteristics. Two major periods of development were designated： i） early embryonic period, from fertilization to operculum completion stage, lasted for 324 h at water temperature （WT） 18 ？23℃; ii） larval period, from operculum completion stage to tail absorbed stage, took 1207 h at WT 20 ？ 24℃. Tadpoles of the concave-eared torrent frogs showed no evidence of abdominal sucker. Absence of this key characteristic supports the view from molecular systematics that concave-eared torrent frog does not belong to the genus Amolops. Two cleavage patterns were observed in embryos at 8-cell and 16-cell stages, with Pattern I2 （latitudinal cleavage at the 8-cell stage, and meridional cleavage at the 16-cell stage with two perpendicular meridional furrows） being the predominant pattern and only 1.5% belonging to Pattern II （meridional cleavage at the 8-cell stage and latitudinal cleavage at the 16-cell stage）. The factors affecting cleavage and hatching ratios, developmental speed, and ecological adaptation were discussed.展开更多
Rhesus monkey embryonic stem（rES） cells have similar characteristics to human ES cells,and might be useful as a substitute model for preclinical research.Notch signaling is involved in the formation of bile ducts,wh...Rhesus monkey embryonic stem（rES） cells have similar characteristics to human ES cells,and might be useful as a substitute model for preclinical research.Notch signaling is involved in the formation of bile ducts,which are composed of cholangiocytes.However,little is known about the role of Notch signaling in cholangiocytic commitment of ES cells.We analyzed the effect of Notch signaling on the induction of cholangiocyte-like cells from rES cells.About 80% of definitive endoderm（DE） cells were generated from rES cells after treatment with activin A.After treatment with BMP4 and FGF1 on matrigel coated wells in serum-free medium,rES-derived DE gave rise to cholangiocyte-like cells by expression of cholangiocytic specific proteins（CK7,CK18,CK19,CK20,and OV-6） and genes（GSTPi,IB4,and HNF1β）.At the same time,expression of Notch 1 and Notch 2 mRNA were detected during cell differentiation,as well as their downstream target genes such as Hes 1 and Hes 5.Inhibition of the Notch signal pathway by L-685458 resulted in decreased expression of Notch and their downstream genes.In addition,the proportion of cholangiocyte-like cells declined from ～90% to ～20%.These results suggest that Notch signaling may play a critical role in cholangiocytic development from ES cells.展开更多
[Objective] Aim to know the whole process of embryonic development of loach. [Method] DOM + LHRH-A2 was used to induce spawning of loach,then after fertilization,the embryos were cultured into freshwater water with te...[Objective] Aim to know the whole process of embryonic development of loach. [Method] DOM + LHRH-A2 was used to induce spawning of loach,then after fertilization,the embryos were cultured into freshwater water with temperature from 24 to 26 ℃ and pH from 7.0 to 7.5. The embryonic development of loach was observed and 27 concrete morphological characteristics and development time of loach from fertilized egg to newly hatched larval period were described in detail. [Result] The embryonic development of loach could be divided into cleavage stage,blastocyst stage,gastrula stage,neurula stage and organogenesis stage. The loach embryo from fertilized egg to out membrane period was 30 h 45 min in fresh water from 24 to 26 ℃ and pH from 7.0 to 7.5. [Conclusion] It provided important reference for studying artificial propagation and genetic breeding of loach.展开更多
[Objective] This study aimed to observe the embryonic development process of Leiocassis crassilabris. [Method] Wild L. crassilabris collected from the Nanjing section of the Yangtze River was used as parent fish for i...[Objective] This study aimed to observe the embryonic development process of Leiocassis crassilabris. [Method] Wild L. crassilabris collected from the Nanjing section of the Yangtze River was used as parent fish for intensive breeding and propagation by artificial insemination. The entire embryonic development process of L. crassilabris from insemination to hatching out of larvae fish was observed consecutively. [Result] Fertilized eggs of L. crassilabris are spherical, and the egg diameter is about 2.2-2.4 mm after water absorption; under conditions of water temperature ranging from 27 to 28 ℃, the embryonic development of L. crassilabris from insemination to hatching out of larvae fish lasted 2 496 min, with a total accumulated temperature of 1 123-1 165 h·℃. [Conclusion] This study is advantageous to better understand the characteristics of embryonic development of L. crassilabris and provides basic biological data for protection and utilization of fish resources and other related work.展开更多
[Objective] The paper was to establish embryonic stem cell system of goats. [Method] Numerous primordial germ cell colonies were derived from gonadal ridge and the surrounding tissues in 20 millimeter fetuses of down ...[Objective] The paper was to establish embryonic stem cell system of goats. [Method] Numerous primordial germ cell colonies were derived from gonadal ridge and the surrounding tissues in 20 millimeter fetuses of down producing goat. Primordial germ cells and goats embryonic fibroblasts obtained from conceptus of equivaient gestational age were co-cultured. [Result] The colonies showed some characteristics of embryonic stem cells, such as the morphology of nest-like, they continued to be AKP positive and the ability to be continuously passed [Conclusion] These cells were pluripotent and ES-like cells.展开更多
[Objective] The research aimed to provide technical basis for fry rearing of Silnrus asotus in Dongting Lake.[Method] The induced spawning medicine was used in the experiment to conduct artificial induced spawning and...[Objective] The research aimed to provide technical basis for fry rearing of Silnrus asotus in Dongting Lake.[Method] The induced spawning medicine was used in the experiment to conduct artificial induced spawning and fertilization for obtaining round green fertilized eggs.According to embryonic development,the morphological characteristics of embryo at different developmental stages were recorded detailedly through microscope.[Result] The embryonic development of Silnrus asotus in Dongting Lake was divided into 7 stages,namely, blastoderm stage,cleavage stage, blastula stage, gastrula stage,neurula stage,organogenesis stage and pre-hatching stage.After hatched for 37 h 20 min in water at 22-24 ℃, fries were come out.[Conclusion] The time sequence of Silnrus asotus in Dongting Lake was basically similar to that of other catfish,while its hatching time was shorter than that of other fish in Siluriformes.展开更多
The localization of four neuropeptidelike substances during embryonic development in amphibian was studied by using immuno cytochemical technique. The cells with positive reaction appeared firstly in the endoderm ce...The localization of four neuropeptidelike substances during embryonic development in amphibian was studied by using immuno cytochemical technique. The cells with positive reaction appeared firstly in the endoderm cells during early tailbud stage, and then were detected in connective tissue at the outer portion of gastrointestinal tract during tadpole stage. In the nervous system, the cells with positive reaction were observed in cranial ganglion and glial cells at the outer margin of the brain and in the inner wall of ventricles. They were also frequently observed in the epidermis during late tailbud stage. The relationship between the appearance of neuropeptides in timespatial sequences and the development of nervous system, the neural crest origin of the cells with positive reaction, and the role of epidermal conductivity in neuropeptidelike cells in epiderms were discussed.展开更多
Embryonic development was studied in six cross combinations ofCitrus sinensis x C. tangerina, C. sinensis x C. reticulata, C. sinensis x (C. tangerina + C.reticulata), C. sinensis x Poncirus trifoliate, C.reticulata x...Embryonic development was studied in six cross combinations ofCitrus sinensis x C. tangerina, C. sinensis x C. reticulata, C. sinensis x (C. tangerina + C.reticulata), C. sinensis x Poncirus trifoliate, C.reticulata x C grandis and C. grandis xPoncirus trifoliate. The results showed that on the 30th day after pollination thezygote remained a single cell. On the 40th day, the zygote began to divide. On the50th day, zygotic embryo became globular-shaped while nucellar embryos had notinvaded the embryo sac. On the 55th day, a few nucellar embryos began to invadethe embryo sac. On the 60th day, the zygotic embryo became heart-shaped, and atthe same time, a large number of nucellar embryos invaded the embryo sac. On the80th day after pollination, the zygotic embryo was surrounded by nucellar embryosand it was not easy to distinguish these embryos. The cross combination affected thedevelopments of zygotic embryos, ovules and fruits, which were mainly determined bythe cross parents. As compared with interspecies crossing, the zygotic division ofintergenus crossing began later, the zygotic embryos developed slowlier and theinvading time of nucellar embryos was also delayed.展开更多
Metabolism of hydrogen peroxide in the course of embryonic development ofsilkworm (variety Guang) was determined by using colorimetric analysis and oxygen electrodemethod. The results indicated that: 1) In the course ...Metabolism of hydrogen peroxide in the course of embryonic development ofsilkworm (variety Guang) was determined by using colorimetric analysis and oxygen electrodemethod. The results indicated that: 1) In the course of fertilization (0-4 h after egg laying), thelevel of H_2O_2 content reached its peak value at 2.5 h of the developmental course and the activity ofsuperoxidase dismutase (SOD) was at higher level while the activity of catalase (CAT) at the lowestcorrespondingly; 2) The H_2O_2 content in embryo, in which the diapause of eggs was being relievedthrough treatment with hydrochloric acid on time in the course of embryonic development, wassignificantly higher than that of diapause eggs except the lower level showed in the embryo whenthe development of it went on for 168~216 h and the activity of SOD reached, lower and higher,tWo peaks in 72 and 168 h after egg-laying, respectively, and was significantly higher in late stagewhile the activity of CAT was shown with a stable level in the period of 72-192 h after egg-laying,and, after then, a rapid rising occurred in the embryo. The level of the CAT activity in embryowas shown significantly lower than that in diapause eggs in early period and higher in late stage ofegg development; 3) In the course of formation of diapause in eggs, the level of H_2O_2contentchanged smoothly and the activity of SOD changed vigorously in early period, and kept stable statelater; and the CAT activity increased gradually; while in the course of relief of diapause under ontime-treatment with hydrochloric acid, the level of H_2O_2 was significantly higher than that indiapause eggs and the SOD activity displayed a new peak value and significantly rose in later stage,while the activity of CAT in relieving embryo from diapause was signincantly lower than that indiapause eggs. Combining the results obtained in other researches with those from ours mentionedabove, we suggest that the metabolism of H_2O_2 might be of importance in the courses of formationand relief of diapause in silkworm eggs. Maybe the esterase A4 timer hypothesis and themicropylar barrier to oxygen hypothesis could be integrated for explanation of the course offormation and relief of diapause in silkworm eggs.展开更多
mRNA differential display was established by Liang and Pardee in 1992 for the purpose of displaying the mRNA differences between two tissues. The early embryonic development in animals is primarily controlled by the ...mRNA differential display was established by Liang and Pardee in 1992 for the purpose of displaying the mRNA differences between two tissues. The early embryonic development in animals is primarily controlled by the maternal RNAs stored in egg. These mRNAs are being degraded as the development proceeds. In some animals, such as fish and amphibian, new transcripts do not appear until the midblastula stage (midblastula transition, MBT). In other animals, for example in mouse, the zygotic genes are expressed during very early stages of development. The mRNA programmed synthesis and degradation during embryonic development controls the cell differentiation, germlayer formation and pattern formation. All these mRNA changes could be displayed side by side as cDNA band differences by mRNA differential display and the genes corresponding to these differential mRNAs could thus be obtained.展开更多
[Objective] This study aimed to observe the embryonic development of the F1 hybrid between Ryukin （♀） and Dragon-eye （♂）. [Method] Embryonic development of the FI hybrid and parents between Ryukin （♀） and Dra...[Objective] This study aimed to observe the embryonic development of the F1 hybrid between Ryukin （♀） and Dragon-eye （♂）. [Method] Embryonic development of the FI hybrid and parents between Ryukin （♀） and Dragon-eye （♂） was observed with XTL-2400 anatomical lens continuously. The organ characteristics and structures at each development stage were observed with OLYMPUS CKX41 microscopes, and photographed and recorded with a digital camera. [Result] At a water temperature of 25℃, the hatching time of the F1 hybrid is 51.3 h, the hatching time of Ryukin embryo is 52.4 h and that of Dragon-eye embryo is 56.3 h. [Conclusion] This study provides certain theoretical and practical basis for improving morphological characteristics of the existing Dragon-eye goldfish.展开更多
Neurons derived from embryonic stem cells(ESCs) have gained great merit in both basic research and regenerative medicine. Here we review and summarize the signaling pathways that have been reported to be involved in t...Neurons derived from embryonic stem cells(ESCs) have gained great merit in both basic research and regenerative medicine. Here we review and summarize the signaling pathways that have been reported to be involved in the neuronal differentiation of ESCs,particularly those associated with in vitro differentiation. The inducers and pathways explored include retinoic acid, Wnt/b-catenin, transforming growth factor/bone morphogenetic protein, Notch, fibroblast growth factor, cytokine, Hedgehog, c-Jun N-terminal kinase/mitogen-activated protein kinase and others. Some other miscellaneous molecular factors that have been reported in the literature are also summarized and discussed. These include calcium, calcium receptor, calcineurin, estrogen receptor, Hox protein, ceramide, glycosaminioglycan, ginsenoside Rg1, opioids, two pore channel 2, nitric oxide, chemically defined medium, cellcell interactions, and physical stimuli. The interaction or crosstalk between these signaling pathways and factors will be explored. Elucidating these signals in detail should make a significant contribution to future progress in stem cell biology and allow, for example, better comparisons to be made between differentiation in vivo and in vitro. Of equal importance, a comprehensive understanding of the pathways that are involved in the development of neurons from ESCs in vitro will also accelerate their application as part of translational medicine.展开更多
BACKGROUND： Midbrain-derived neural stem cells （mNSCs） can differentiate into functional mature dopaminergic neurons. The mNSCs are considered the ideal choice for cell therapy of Parkinson＇s disease. OBJECTIVE： ...BACKGROUND： Midbrain-derived neural stem cells （mNSCs） can differentiate into functional mature dopaminergic neurons. The mNSCs are considered the ideal choice for cell therapy of Parkinson＇s disease. OBJECTIVE： To isolate rat embryonic mNSCs and to observe the differentiation characteristics of mNSCs induced by cell growth-promoting factors. DESIGN, TIME AND SETTING： An in vitro cell culture study based on the molecular biology of nerve cells was carried out at the Institute of Clinical Medicine, China-Japan Friendship Hospital （China） from March to November 2007. MATERIALS： Sprague Dawley rats at embryonic day 14 were used in this study. Nestin antibody, β-Ⅲ tubulin antibody, glial fibrillary acidic protein （GFAP） antibody and cyclic nucleotide 3＇-phosphohydrolase （CNPase） antibody were provided by Abcam; DMEM/F12 medium and N2 supplement were provided by Invitrogen; epidermal growth factor （EGF） and fibroblast growth factor-2 （FGF2） were provided by R＆D Systems. METHODS： The ventral mesencephalon was dissected from embryonic day 14 rat embryos. By trypsin digestion and mechanical separation, the brain tissue was triturated into a fine single-cell suspension. The cells were cultured in 5 mL serum-free medium containing DMEM/FI 2, 1% N： supplement, 20 ng/mL EGF and FGF2. The mNSCs at the third generation were coated with 10ug/mL polylysine and induced to differentiate in the DMEM/F12 supplemented with 1% fetal bovine serum and 1% N2. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES： The neural spheres of the third passage were identified by nestin immunofluorescence; at the same time, the cells were induced to differentiate, and the types of differentiated cell were identified by immunofluorescence for β Ⅲ tubulin, GFAP and CNPase. RESULTS： Seven days after primary culture, a great many neurospheres could be obtained by successive pasage. Immunofluorescence assays showed that the neurospheres were nestin positive, and after differentiation, the cells expressed GFAP, CNPase and β -Ⅲ-tubulin. CONCLUSION： Embryonic day 14 rat mNSCs can differentiate into neuron-like cells and glial cells following induction by EGF, FGF2 and N： additive.展开更多
Two elongatoolithid dinosaur eggs from the Upper Cretaceous of Ganzhou, Jiangxi Province and the embryonic skeletons they bear are described. They represent the first oviraptorosaurian eggs with embryonic skeletons in...Two elongatoolithid dinosaur eggs from the Upper Cretaceous of Ganzhou, Jiangxi Province and the embryonic skeletons they bear are described. They represent the first oviraptorosaurian eggs with embryonic skeletons in China and provide the first example that an oospecies can be correlated to certain dinosaur taxon/taxa. The two eggs are the same as the pair of the eggs inside a female oviraptorosaurian pelvis from the same horizon of the same area in both macro- and micro-structures of the egg shells, and can he referred to the oospecies, Macroolithus yaotunensis Zhao, 1975. The morphology of the preserved part of the embryonic skeletons indicates that they may have been laid by an oviraptorid, Heyuannia huangi from Guangdong Province or a closely related oviraptorosaurian, which may have been lived in the Ganzhou area too in the Late Cretaceous. The embryonic skeletons of the two eggs are not in the same developing stage. In one of the eggs, the postzygapophysis of the preserved vertebrae are well ossified, indicating that it was just hatched.展开更多
基金supported by the Scientific Research Projects Coordination Unit of Istanbul University(No.13930).
文摘Spermatozoa have a highly complex RNA profile.Several of these transcripts are suggested as biomarkers for male infertility and contribute to early development.To analyze the differences between sperm RNA quantity and expression of protamine(PRM1 and PRM2)and testis-specific histone 2B(TH2B)genes,spermatozoa from 33 patients who enrolled in assisted reproduction treatment(ART)program were analyzed.Sperm RNA of teratozoospermic(T),oligoteratozoospermic(OT),and normozoospermic(N)samples was extracted,and the differences in transcript levels among the study groups were analyzed by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction(qRT-PCR).The correlations of total RNA per spermatozoon and the expression of the transcripts were evaluated in relation to sperm characteristics and preimplantation embryo development.The mean(±standard deviation)RNA amount per spermatozoon was 28.48(±23.03)femtogram in the overall group and was significantly higher in the OT group than that in N and T groups.Total sperm RNA and gene expression of PRM1 and PRM2 genes were related to preimplantation embryo development and developmental arrest.Specific sperm characteristics were correlated with the expressions of PRM1,PRM2,or TH2B genes.We conclude that the sperm RNA amount and composition are important factors and might influence early embryonic development and also differ in different cases of male infertility.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant Nos.12090052,U24A2014,and 12325405).
文摘Spatial transcriptomics technology provides novel insights into the spatial organization of gene expression during embryonic development.In this study,we propose a method that integrates analysis across both temporal and spatial dimensions to investigate spatial transcriptomics data from mouse embryos at different developmental stages.We quantified the spatial expression pattern of each gene at various stages by calculating its Moran’s I.Furthermore,by employing time-series clustering to identify dynamic co-expression modules,we identified several developmentally stage-specific regulatory gene modules.A key finding was the presence of distinct,stage-specific gene network modules across different developmental periods:Early modules focused on morphogenesis,mid-stage on organ development,and late-stage on neural and tissue maturation.Functional enrichment analysis further confirmed the core biological functions of each module.The dynamic,spatially-resolved gene expression model constructed in this study not only provides new biological insights into the programmed spatiotemporal reorganization of gene regulatory networks during embryonic development but also presents an effective approach for analyzing complex spatiotemporal omics data.This work provides a new perspective for understanding developmental biology,regenerative medicine,and related fields.
基金German research Foundation(DFG,grant numbers:CH2321/1–1 and SCHO1231/7–1)JH has received a scholarship from the Chinese Scholarship Council(CSC No.:201908350115).
文摘The oviduct epithelium is the initial maternal contact site for embryos after fertilization,offering the microenviron-ment before implantation.This early gestation period is particularly sensitive to stress,which can cause reduced fertil-ity and reproductive disorders in mammals.Nevertheless,the local impact of elevated stress hormones on the ovi-duct epithelium has received limited attention to date,except for a few reports on polyovulatory species like mice and pigs.In this study,we focused on the effects of chronic maternal stress on cattle,given its association with infertil-ity issues in this monoovulatory species.Bovine oviduct epithelial cells(BOEC)differentiated at the air–liquid interface(ALI)were stimulated with 250 nmol/L cortisol for 1 or 3 weeks.Subsequently,they were assessed for morphology,bioelectrical properties,and gene expression related to oviduct function,glucocorticoid pathway,cortisol metabo-lism,inflammation,and apoptosis.Results revealed adverse effects of cortisol on epithelium structure,featured by deciliation,vacuole formation,and multilayering.Additionally,cortisol exposure led to an increase in transepithelial potential difference,downregulated mRNA expression of the major glucocorticoid receptor(NR3C1),upregulated the expression of cortisol-responsive genes(FKBP5,TSC22D3),and significant downregulation of oviductal glycopro-tein 1(OVGP1)and steroid receptors PGR and ESR1.The systematic comparison to a similar experiment previously performed by us in porcine oviduct epithelial cells,indicated that bovine cultures were more susceptible to elevated cortisol levels than porcine.The distinct responses between both species are likely linked to their divergence in the cortisol-induced expression changes of HSD11B2,an enzyme controlling the cellular capacity to metabolise cortisol.These findings provide insights into the species-specific reactions and reproductive consequences triggered by maternal stress.
基金supported by the Natural Science Foundation of Shandong Province(ZR2019MC059)the Traditional Chinese Medicine Science Project of Shandong Province(M-2023093)the Weifang Municipal Science and Technology Development Program(2025YX037).
文摘Human cytomegalovirus(HCMV)poses a significant risk of neural damage during pregnancy.As the most prevalent intrauterine infectious agent in low-and middle-income countries,HCMV disrupts the development of neural stem cells,leading to fetal malformations and abnormal structural and physiological functions in the fetal brain.This review summarizes the current understanding of how HCMV infection dysregulates the Wnt signaling pathway to induce fetal malformations and discusses current management strategies.
文摘Following the publication of Xu et al.(2022),an error was identified in Figure 1D.Specifically,the top left panel was inadvertently duplicated during figure preparation.To ensure the accuracy and integrity of our published work,we request the publication of a corrigendum with the corrected image.We apologize for this oversight and any confusion it may have caused.The amended figure is provided in the updated Supplementary Materials.
基金supported by the Key R&D Program of Zhejiang(No.2023C03072)the Medical and Health Science and Technology Program of Zhejiang Province(No.2021PY007)and the National Key Research and Development Program of China(Nos.2021YFA1301100 and 2021YFA1301101).
文摘Periodontitis is a common oral disease caused by bacteria coupled with an excessive host immune response.Stem cell therapy can be a promising treatment strategy for periodontitis,but the relevant mechanism is complicated.This study aimed to explore the therapeutic potential of mitochondria from human embryonic stem cell-derived mesenchymal stem cells(hESC-MSCs)for the treatment of periodontitis.The gingival tissues of periodontitis patients are characterized by abnormal mitochondrial structure.Human gingival fibroblasts(HGFs)were exposed to 5μg/mL lipopolysaccharide(LPS)for 24 h to establish a cell injury model.When treated with hESC-MSCs or mitochondria derived from hESC-MSCs,HGFs showed reduced expression of inflammatory genes,increased adenosine triphosphate(ATP)level,decreased reactive oxygen species(ROS)production,and enhanced mitochondrial function compared to the control.The average efficiency of isolated mitochondrial transfer by hESC-MSCs was determined to be 8.93%.Besides,a therapy of local mitochondrial injection in mice with LPS-induced periodontitis showed a reduction in inflammatory gene expression,as well as an increase in both the mitochondrial number and the aspect ratio in gingival tissues.In conclusion,our results indicate that mitochondria derived from hESC-MSCs can reduce the inflammatory response and improve mitochondrial function in HGFs,suggesting that the transfer of mitochondria between hESC-MSCs and HGFs serves as a potential mechanism underlying the therapeutic effect of stem cells.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Fundation of China(30730029)
文摘We investigated the early embryonic and larval development of the concave-eared torrent frogs, Odorrana tormota （Amphibia, Anura, Ranidae）. Embryos were derived from artificial fertilization of frogs’ eggs, and the staging of development was based on morphological and physiological characteristics. Two major periods of development were designated： i） early embryonic period, from fertilization to operculum completion stage, lasted for 324 h at water temperature （WT） 18 ？23℃; ii） larval period, from operculum completion stage to tail absorbed stage, took 1207 h at WT 20 ？ 24℃. Tadpoles of the concave-eared torrent frogs showed no evidence of abdominal sucker. Absence of this key characteristic supports the view from molecular systematics that concave-eared torrent frog does not belong to the genus Amolops. Two cleavage patterns were observed in embryos at 8-cell and 16-cell stages, with Pattern I2 （latitudinal cleavage at the 8-cell stage, and meridional cleavage at the 16-cell stage with two perpendicular meridional furrows） being the predominant pattern and only 1.5% belonging to Pattern II （meridional cleavage at the 8-cell stage and latitudinal cleavage at the 16-cell stage）. The factors affecting cleavage and hatching ratios, developmental speed, and ecological adaptation were discussed.
基金supported by research grants from Zhejiang Natural Sciences Foundation of China (Y2110911 Y2080996)the National Key Technologies R&D Program of China (2007CB947701)
文摘Rhesus monkey embryonic stem（rES） cells have similar characteristics to human ES cells,and might be useful as a substitute model for preclinical research.Notch signaling is involved in the formation of bile ducts,which are composed of cholangiocytes.However,little is known about the role of Notch signaling in cholangiocytic commitment of ES cells.We analyzed the effect of Notch signaling on the induction of cholangiocyte-like cells from rES cells.About 80% of definitive endoderm（DE） cells were generated from rES cells after treatment with activin A.After treatment with BMP4 and FGF1 on matrigel coated wells in serum-free medium,rES-derived DE gave rise to cholangiocyte-like cells by expression of cholangiocytic specific proteins（CK7,CK18,CK19,CK20,and OV-6） and genes（GSTPi,IB4,and HNF1β）.At the same time,expression of Notch 1 and Notch 2 mRNA were detected during cell differentiation,as well as their downstream target genes such as Hes 1 and Hes 5.Inhibition of the Notch signal pathway by L-685458 resulted in decreased expression of Notch and their downstream genes.In addition,the proportion of cholangiocyte-like cells declined from ～90% to ～20%.These results suggest that Notch signaling may play a critical role in cholangiocytic development from ES cells.
文摘[Objective] Aim to know the whole process of embryonic development of loach. [Method] DOM + LHRH-A2 was used to induce spawning of loach,then after fertilization,the embryos were cultured into freshwater water with temperature from 24 to 26 ℃ and pH from 7.0 to 7.5. The embryonic development of loach was observed and 27 concrete morphological characteristics and development time of loach from fertilized egg to newly hatched larval period were described in detail. [Result] The embryonic development of loach could be divided into cleavage stage,blastocyst stage,gastrula stage,neurula stage and organogenesis stage. The loach embryo from fertilized egg to out membrane period was 30 h 45 min in fresh water from 24 to 26 ℃ and pH from 7.0 to 7.5. [Conclusion] It provided important reference for studying artificial propagation and genetic breeding of loach.
基金Supported by Science and Technology Support Program of Science and Technology Department of Jiangsu Province(BE2009335)~~
文摘[Objective] This study aimed to observe the embryonic development process of Leiocassis crassilabris. [Method] Wild L. crassilabris collected from the Nanjing section of the Yangtze River was used as parent fish for intensive breeding and propagation by artificial insemination. The entire embryonic development process of L. crassilabris from insemination to hatching out of larvae fish was observed consecutively. [Result] Fertilized eggs of L. crassilabris are spherical, and the egg diameter is about 2.2-2.4 mm after water absorption; under conditions of water temperature ranging from 27 to 28 ℃, the embryonic development of L. crassilabris from insemination to hatching out of larvae fish lasted 2 496 min, with a total accumulated temperature of 1 123-1 165 h·℃. [Conclusion] This study is advantageous to better understand the characteristics of embryonic development of L. crassilabris and provides basic biological data for protection and utilization of fish resources and other related work.
基金Supported by Project of Baotou University(BSY2010-23)~~
文摘[Objective] The paper was to establish embryonic stem cell system of goats. [Method] Numerous primordial germ cell colonies were derived from gonadal ridge and the surrounding tissues in 20 millimeter fetuses of down producing goat. Primordial germ cells and goats embryonic fibroblasts obtained from conceptus of equivaient gestational age were co-cultured. [Result] The colonies showed some characteristics of embryonic stem cells, such as the morphology of nest-like, they continued to be AKP positive and the ability to be continuously passed [Conclusion] These cells were pluripotent and ES-like cells.
文摘[Objective] The research aimed to provide technical basis for fry rearing of Silnrus asotus in Dongting Lake.[Method] The induced spawning medicine was used in the experiment to conduct artificial induced spawning and fertilization for obtaining round green fertilized eggs.According to embryonic development,the morphological characteristics of embryo at different developmental stages were recorded detailedly through microscope.[Result] The embryonic development of Silnrus asotus in Dongting Lake was divided into 7 stages,namely, blastoderm stage,cleavage stage, blastula stage, gastrula stage,neurula stage,organogenesis stage and pre-hatching stage.After hatched for 37 h 20 min in water at 22-24 ℃, fries were come out.[Conclusion] The time sequence of Silnrus asotus in Dongting Lake was basically similar to that of other catfish,while its hatching time was shorter than that of other fish in Siluriformes.
文摘The localization of four neuropeptidelike substances during embryonic development in amphibian was studied by using immuno cytochemical technique. The cells with positive reaction appeared firstly in the endoderm cells during early tailbud stage, and then were detected in connective tissue at the outer portion of gastrointestinal tract during tadpole stage. In the nervous system, the cells with positive reaction were observed in cranial ganglion and glial cells at the outer margin of the brain and in the inner wall of ventricles. They were also frequently observed in the epidermis during late tailbud stage. The relationship between the appearance of neuropeptides in timespatial sequences and the development of nervous system, the neural crest origin of the cells with positive reaction, and the role of epidermal conductivity in neuropeptidelike cells in epiderms were discussed.
文摘Embryonic development was studied in six cross combinations ofCitrus sinensis x C. tangerina, C. sinensis x C. reticulata, C. sinensis x (C. tangerina + C.reticulata), C. sinensis x Poncirus trifoliate, C.reticulata x C grandis and C. grandis xPoncirus trifoliate. The results showed that on the 30th day after pollination thezygote remained a single cell. On the 40th day, the zygote began to divide. On the50th day, zygotic embryo became globular-shaped while nucellar embryos had notinvaded the embryo sac. On the 55th day, a few nucellar embryos began to invadethe embryo sac. On the 60th day, the zygotic embryo became heart-shaped, and atthe same time, a large number of nucellar embryos invaded the embryo sac. On the80th day after pollination, the zygotic embryo was surrounded by nucellar embryosand it was not easy to distinguish these embryos. The cross combination affected thedevelopments of zygotic embryos, ovules and fruits, which were mainly determined bythe cross parents. As compared with interspecies crossing, the zygotic division ofintergenus crossing began later, the zygotic embryos developed slowlier and theinvading time of nucellar embryos was also delayed.
文摘Metabolism of hydrogen peroxide in the course of embryonic development ofsilkworm (variety Guang) was determined by using colorimetric analysis and oxygen electrodemethod. The results indicated that: 1) In the course of fertilization (0-4 h after egg laying), thelevel of H_2O_2 content reached its peak value at 2.5 h of the developmental course and the activity ofsuperoxidase dismutase (SOD) was at higher level while the activity of catalase (CAT) at the lowestcorrespondingly; 2) The H_2O_2 content in embryo, in which the diapause of eggs was being relievedthrough treatment with hydrochloric acid on time in the course of embryonic development, wassignificantly higher than that of diapause eggs except the lower level showed in the embryo whenthe development of it went on for 168~216 h and the activity of SOD reached, lower and higher,tWo peaks in 72 and 168 h after egg-laying, respectively, and was significantly higher in late stagewhile the activity of CAT was shown with a stable level in the period of 72-192 h after egg-laying,and, after then, a rapid rising occurred in the embryo. The level of the CAT activity in embryowas shown significantly lower than that in diapause eggs in early period and higher in late stage ofegg development; 3) In the course of formation of diapause in eggs, the level of H_2O_2contentchanged smoothly and the activity of SOD changed vigorously in early period, and kept stable statelater; and the CAT activity increased gradually; while in the course of relief of diapause under ontime-treatment with hydrochloric acid, the level of H_2O_2 was significantly higher than that indiapause eggs and the SOD activity displayed a new peak value and significantly rose in later stage,while the activity of CAT in relieving embryo from diapause was signincantly lower than that indiapause eggs. Combining the results obtained in other researches with those from ours mentionedabove, we suggest that the metabolism of H_2O_2 might be of importance in the courses of formationand relief of diapause in silkworm eggs. Maybe the esterase A4 timer hypothesis and themicropylar barrier to oxygen hypothesis could be integrated for explanation of the course offormation and relief of diapause in silkworm eggs.
文摘mRNA differential display was established by Liang and Pardee in 1992 for the purpose of displaying the mRNA differences between two tissues. The early embryonic development in animals is primarily controlled by the maternal RNAs stored in egg. These mRNAs are being degraded as the development proceeds. In some animals, such as fish and amphibian, new transcripts do not appear until the midblastula stage (midblastula transition, MBT). In other animals, for example in mouse, the zygotic genes are expressed during very early stages of development. The mRNA programmed synthesis and degradation during embryonic development controls the cell differentiation, germlayer formation and pattern formation. All these mRNA changes could be displayed side by side as cDNA band differences by mRNA differential display and the genes corresponding to these differential mRNAs could thus be obtained.
文摘[Objective] This study aimed to observe the embryonic development of the F1 hybrid between Ryukin （♀） and Dragon-eye （♂）. [Method] Embryonic development of the FI hybrid and parents between Ryukin （♀） and Dragon-eye （♂） was observed with XTL-2400 anatomical lens continuously. The organ characteristics and structures at each development stage were observed with OLYMPUS CKX41 microscopes, and photographed and recorded with a digital camera. [Result] At a water temperature of 25℃, the hatching time of the F1 hybrid is 51.3 h, the hatching time of Ryukin embryo is 52.4 h and that of Dragon-eye embryo is 56.3 h. [Conclusion] This study provides certain theoretical and practical basis for improving morphological characteristics of the existing Dragon-eye goldfish.
基金Supported by National Science Council,No.NSC101-2311-B-003-005 and NSC102-2311-B-003-003National Taiwan Normal University,No.103T3040B06,103T3040C06 and 104T3040C06
文摘Neurons derived from embryonic stem cells(ESCs) have gained great merit in both basic research and regenerative medicine. Here we review and summarize the signaling pathways that have been reported to be involved in the neuronal differentiation of ESCs,particularly those associated with in vitro differentiation. The inducers and pathways explored include retinoic acid, Wnt/b-catenin, transforming growth factor/bone morphogenetic protein, Notch, fibroblast growth factor, cytokine, Hedgehog, c-Jun N-terminal kinase/mitogen-activated protein kinase and others. Some other miscellaneous molecular factors that have been reported in the literature are also summarized and discussed. These include calcium, calcium receptor, calcineurin, estrogen receptor, Hox protein, ceramide, glycosaminioglycan, ginsenoside Rg1, opioids, two pore channel 2, nitric oxide, chemically defined medium, cellcell interactions, and physical stimuli. The interaction or crosstalk between these signaling pathways and factors will be explored. Elucidating these signals in detail should make a significant contribution to future progress in stem cell biology and allow, for example, better comparisons to be made between differentiation in vivo and in vitro. Of equal importance, a comprehensive understanding of the pathways that are involved in the development of neurons from ESCs in vitro will also accelerate their application as part of translational medicine.
基金the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.30672151
文摘BACKGROUND： Midbrain-derived neural stem cells （mNSCs） can differentiate into functional mature dopaminergic neurons. The mNSCs are considered the ideal choice for cell therapy of Parkinson＇s disease. OBJECTIVE： To isolate rat embryonic mNSCs and to observe the differentiation characteristics of mNSCs induced by cell growth-promoting factors. DESIGN, TIME AND SETTING： An in vitro cell culture study based on the molecular biology of nerve cells was carried out at the Institute of Clinical Medicine, China-Japan Friendship Hospital （China） from March to November 2007. MATERIALS： Sprague Dawley rats at embryonic day 14 were used in this study. Nestin antibody, β-Ⅲ tubulin antibody, glial fibrillary acidic protein （GFAP） antibody and cyclic nucleotide 3＇-phosphohydrolase （CNPase） antibody were provided by Abcam; DMEM/F12 medium and N2 supplement were provided by Invitrogen; epidermal growth factor （EGF） and fibroblast growth factor-2 （FGF2） were provided by R＆D Systems. METHODS： The ventral mesencephalon was dissected from embryonic day 14 rat embryos. By trypsin digestion and mechanical separation, the brain tissue was triturated into a fine single-cell suspension. The cells were cultured in 5 mL serum-free medium containing DMEM/FI 2, 1% N： supplement, 20 ng/mL EGF and FGF2. The mNSCs at the third generation were coated with 10ug/mL polylysine and induced to differentiate in the DMEM/F12 supplemented with 1% fetal bovine serum and 1% N2. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES： The neural spheres of the third passage were identified by nestin immunofluorescence; at the same time, the cells were induced to differentiate, and the types of differentiated cell were identified by immunofluorescence for β Ⅲ tubulin, GFAP and CNPase. RESULTS： Seven days after primary culture, a great many neurospheres could be obtained by successive pasage. Immunofluorescence assays showed that the neurospheres were nestin positive, and after differentiation, the cells expressed GFAP, CNPase and β -Ⅲ-tubulin. CONCLUSION： Embryonic day 14 rat mNSCs can differentiate into neuron-like cells and glial cells following induction by EGF, FGF2 and N： additive.
基金supported by research grants from the NMNS and the National Science Council of RO China(NSC 96-2116-M-178-001) to Cheng Y.-N.the Ministry of Land and Resources,the Ministry of Science and Technology(973 Project,2006CB701405) and China Geological Survey for supportsupported by the NMNS for his sabbatical stay and grants from Canadian Museum of Nature,Canada
文摘Two elongatoolithid dinosaur eggs from the Upper Cretaceous of Ganzhou, Jiangxi Province and the embryonic skeletons they bear are described. They represent the first oviraptorosaurian eggs with embryonic skeletons in China and provide the first example that an oospecies can be correlated to certain dinosaur taxon/taxa. The two eggs are the same as the pair of the eggs inside a female oviraptorosaurian pelvis from the same horizon of the same area in both macro- and micro-structures of the egg shells, and can he referred to the oospecies, Macroolithus yaotunensis Zhao, 1975. The morphology of the preserved part of the embryonic skeletons indicates that they may have been laid by an oviraptorid, Heyuannia huangi from Guangdong Province or a closely related oviraptorosaurian, which may have been lived in the Ganzhou area too in the Late Cretaceous. The embryonic skeletons of the two eggs are not in the same developing stage. In one of the eggs, the postzygapophysis of the preserved vertebrae are well ossified, indicating that it was just hatched.
