Backgroud Efficient communication between the embryo and the endometrium is essential for the successful establishment and maintenance of pregnancy.Uterine-derived extracellular vesicles(EVs)contribute to embryomatern...Backgroud Efficient communication between the embryo and the endometrium is essential for the successful establishment and maintenance of pregnancy.Uterine-derived extracellular vesicles(EVs)contribute to embryomaternal communication,supporting early embryonic development.This study aimed to:(i)compare the protein cargo of uterine fluid EVs(UF-EVs)from CYCLIC and PREGNANT heifers;(ii)characterize the protein profile of conditioned medium(CM)-EVs from endometrial explants cultured alone(EXPL)or co-cultured with five d 7 blastocysts(EXPL+EMB)in vitro;and(iii)compare the EV protein cargo between the in vivo and in vitro models(i.e.,EXPL vs.CYCLIC and EXPL+EMB vs.PREGNANT).Results We identified 1,459 and 1,752 proteins in the UF-EVs of CYCLIC and PREGNANT heifers,respectively.Among these,12 were exclusive to CYCLIC,and 18 were exclusive to PREGNANT.Among the 1,329 proteins identified in both groups,16 were differently abundant;ten were more abundant,and six were less abundant in UF-EVs from PREGNANT heifers.In vivo,the changes in UF-EV protein cargo induced by the presence of a blastocyst were related to inflammatory and immune responses,endometrial receptivity,and support of early embryonic development by promoting cell polarity,cell–cell adhesion,and stem cell differentiation.In vitro,we identified 1,501 proteins in the CM-EVs from EXPL,1,975 in the CM-EVs from EXPL+EMB,and 82 in the CM-EVs from EMB.Additionally,50 proteins were unique to EXPL+EMB,and another 33 were differentially abundant due to the synergistic interaction between the embryo and the endometrium.These proteins are involved in embryonic development,regulation of stem cell differentiation,establishment and maintenance of cell polarity,interferon tau(IFNT)-mediated cell signaling,endometrial receptivity,and immune modulation.Although there are qualitative and quantitative differences between in vivo and in vitro-derived EVs,UF-EVs from CYCLIC heifers compared to CM-EVs from EXPL,as well as UFEVs from PREGNANT heifers compared to CM-EVs from EXPL+EMB shared common proteins.Conclusions These findings highlight the pivotal role of EVs in embryo-maternal communication,suggesting that their protein cargo may actively contribute to the modulation of the uterine environment to support early embryonic development.Understanding these molecular interactions could provide valuable insights into the mechanisms of implantation and pregnancy establishment.展开更多
The livestock sector is a vital component of India's agricultural economy,providing essential support to rural communities and ensuring food security.Efficient reproductive performance is critical to sustaining li...The livestock sector is a vital component of India's agricultural economy,providing essential support to rural communities and ensuring food security.Efficient reproductive performance is critical to sustaining livestock productivity,yet age-related declines in both male and female fertility pose significant challenges.The current review highlights that male reproductive efficiency is closely tied to semen quality,which deteriorates with age due to oxidative stress,leading to reduced fertilizing capacity and embryonic developmental potential.Similarly,female reproductive longevity is predominantly influenced by ovarian health,which declines with age due to diminished oocyte quality and quantity.This decline is exacerbated by oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction,leading to reproductive senescence and reduced offspring viability.Understanding the mechanisms of reproductive aging and developing strategies to mitigate its effects are crucial for enhancing livestock productivity and sustaining the agrarian economy.展开更多
The mitochondrion is the major energy provider to power sperm motility. In mammals, aside from the nuclear genome, mitochondrial DNA （mtDNA） also contributes to oxidative phosphorylation to impact production of ATP ...The mitochondrion is the major energy provider to power sperm motility. In mammals, aside from the nuclear genome, mitochondrial DNA （mtDNA） also contributes to oxidative phosphorylation to impact production of ATP by coding 13 polypeptides. However, the role of sperm mitochondria in fertilization and its final fate after fertilization are still controversial. The viewpoints that sperm bearing more mtDNA will have a better fertilizing capability and that sperm mtDNA is actively eliminated during early embryogenesis are widely accepted. However, this may be not true for several mammalian species, including mice and humans. Here, we review the sperm mitochondria and their mtDNA in sperm functions, and the mechanisms of maternal mitochondrial inheritance in mammals.展开更多
Postcopulatory sexual selection through sperm competition may be an important evolutionary force affecting many reproductive traits, including sperm morphometrics. Environmental factors such as pollutants, pesticides,...Postcopulatory sexual selection through sperm competition may be an important evolutionary force affecting many reproductive traits, including sperm morphometrics. Environmental factors such as pollutants, pesticides, and climate change may affect different sperm traits, and thus reproduction, in sensitive bird species. Many sperm-handling processes used in assisted reproductive techniques may also affect the size of sperm cells. The accurately measured dimensions of sperm cell structures （especially the head） can thus be used as indicators of environmental influences, in improving our understanding of reproductive and evolutionary strategies, and for optimizing assisted reproductive techniques （e.g., sperm cryopreservation） for use with birds. Computer-assisted sperm morphometry analysis （CASA-Morph） provides an accurate and reliable method for assessing sperm morphometry, reducing the problem of subjectivity associated with human visual assessment. Computerized systems have been standardized for use with semen from different mammalian species. Avian spermatozoa, however, are filiform, limiting their analysis with such systems, which were developed to examine the approximately spherical heads of mammalian sperm cells. To help overcome this, the standardization of staining techniques to be used in compute^-assessed light microscopical methods is a priority. The present review discusses these points and describes the sperm morphometric characteristics of several wild and domestic bird species.展开更多
This study evaluated the effects of comorbid disorders of diabetes and hyperthyroidism in the adult male mice. In total, 32 ICR strain mice were equally distributed into four groups： control （C）, diabetic （D）, di...This study evaluated the effects of comorbid disorders of diabetes and hyperthyroidism in the adult male mice. In total, 32 ICR strain mice were equally distributed into four groups： control （C）, diabetic （D）, diabetic-plus- hyperthyroid （DH）, and hyperthyroid （H）. Mice allocated for diabetes received a single intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin （STZ） at 200 mg/kg body weight. At the onset of diabetes, one group of mice was concomitantly injected levothyroxine （LT4; 0.3 mg/kg body weight） and the other set of animals received the same treatment independently on a daily basis. The body weight, as well as the testicular and epididymal weights, was reduced markedly in D and DH mice. Higher trends of blood glucose levels were seen in the DH group, in comparison to euthyroid diabetic mice. Thyroid hormones could exert a transient effect on blood glucose homeostasis by altering the serum blood glucose level in diabetic patients. Histomorphometric analysis showed increased luminal sizes of seminiferous tubules, along with decreased epithelial height and atrophic changes in germinal stem cells in the testis of DH and H mice. Caput epididymis of DH mice showed extensive compaction of principal cells, loss of stereocilia, lipid vacuolization, and inflammatory infiltrations; however, damaged tubular integrity, packed clear cells, exfoliated cells, and round sperma- tids were profoundly noticed in the cauda epididymis. Hyperthyroidism elevated the serum testosterone levels in H and DH mice and produced critical damages to the histoarchitecture of the epididymis. Collectively, this experiment en- deavored to mimic the polyglandular autoimmune syndrome, which will be helpful to better understand the reasons for male infertility in diabetic-cum-hyperthyroid patients.展开更多
Objective: To evaluate the potential antioxidant and hepatoprotective effects of n-hexane, dichloromethane(DCM), ethyl acetate(EtOAc), n-butanol and aqueous fractions of Moringa oleifera(M. oleifera) leaves methanol e...Objective: To evaluate the potential antioxidant and hepatoprotective effects of n-hexane, dichloromethane(DCM), ethyl acetate(EtOAc), n-butanol and aqueous fractions of Moringa oleifera(M. oleifera) leaves methanol extract against carbon tetrachloride(CCl_4)-induced liver injury in rats. Methods: These fractions were prepared from the M. oleifera leaves methanol extract by solubilization in water and partitioning in n-hexane, EtOAc, DCM and n-butanol. Their phyto-components were identified by GC-MS analysis. The in vitro antioxidant effect of these fractions was carried out by assessment of 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl scavenging activity. A total of 40 Sprague Dawley rats were allocated into 8 equal groups: group 1 given olive oil(1 m L/kg b.wt.), group 2 injected with CCl_4, group 3 to 7 administered with n-hexane, DCM, EtOAc, n-butanol and aqueous fractions, respectively after CCl_4, group 8 administered with silymarin after CCl_4. The activities of aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, and the levels of total cholesterol, triglycerides, glucose, total proteins and albumin in serum were determined spectrophotometrically. Glutathione reduced, lipid peroxide by-products levels, glutathione-s-transferase and catalase enzyme activities in the liver homogenate were determined by spectrophotometer. Liver specimens were also examined for histopathological alterations under light microscope. Results: The GCMS analysis of different fractions of the M. oleifera leaves methanol extract revealed that n-hexane, DCM, EtOAc, n-butanol, and aqueous fractions contained 17, 22, 23, 19 and 32 compounds, respectively. The percent and the molecular structure of each component in each fraction were identified. The n-butanol and EtOAc fractions exhibited the strongest in vitro antioxidant activity against 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl. CCl_4 significantly decreased glutathione reduced and total proteins concentration and glutathione-s-transferase and catalase activities but increased lipid peroxide by-products and total cholesterol levels. The n-hexane followed by aqueous and DCM fractions were the most potent to regulate serum enzyme activities and lipid peroxide by-products levels in the liver homogenate. Conclusions: n-hexane, DCM, and aqueous fractions have the highest effectiveness against CCl_4-induced hepatotoxicity. Isolation and purification of the active constituents require further experiments.展开更多
Twenty four first weaned sows Duroc × Landrace× Veredeld Duits Landvarken （VDL）, average live weight 135-190 kg （11% coefficient of variation （CV）） were allocated to four treatments （six animals/group...Twenty four first weaned sows Duroc × Landrace× Veredeld Duits Landvarken （VDL）, average live weight 135-190 kg （11% coefficient of variation （CV）） were allocated to four treatments （six animals/group/treatment） in a randomized block design to evaluate the effect of fermented tamarind seeds （FTS） supplementation during estrus to lactation period on the performance of sows and weaned piglets. There were four treatment diets offered： basal diet （T0）, T0 ＋ 5% FTS （T1）, T0 ＋ 7.5% FTS （T2） and T0 ＋ 10% FTS （T3）. Supplementing sows with 5%-10% FTS increased daily feed intake at all stages and 10% FTS supplementation level performed the highest （P 〈 0.05） at all stages of pregnancy. Litter size increased 1-2 piglets/sow, piglets born alive increased 1.3-3 piglets/sow, piglet birth weight increased 10-160 g/piglet and weaned piglets increased 3.3-5.3 piglets/sow, while mortality was reduced of 18%-27% per sow. Inclusion of FTS at level of 10% in the diet of sows had the highest daily live weight gain of piglets during four suckling weeks （P 〈 0.05）. However, there was no significant difference （P 〈 0.05） among treatments on daily live weight gain of piglets at week 1-2. This study revealed that supplementing sows with FTS during estrus to lactation period improved sows＇ and piglets＇ performances, and reduced piglets＇ mortality up to 29% at weaning.展开更多
At present, the Tibetan Mastiff is the oldest and most ferocious dog in the world. However, the origin of the Tibetan Mastiff and its phylogenetic relationship with other large breed dogs such as Saint Bernard are unc...At present, the Tibetan Mastiff is the oldest and most ferocious dog in the world. However, the origin of the Tibetan Mastiff and its phylogenetic relationship with other large breed dogs such as Saint Bernard are unclear. In this study, the primers were designed accord- ing to the mitochondrial genome sequence of the domestic dog, and the 2,525 bp mitochondrial sequence, containing the whole sequence of Cytochrome b, tRNA-Thr, tRNA-Pro, and control region of the Tibetan Mastiff, was obtained. Using grey wolves and coyotes as out- groups, the Tibetan Mastiff and 12 breeds of domestic dogs were analyzed in phylogenesis. Tibetan Mastiff, domestic dog breeds, and grey wolves were clustered into a group and coyotes were clustered in a group separately. This indicated that the Tibetan Mastiff and the other domestic dogs originated from the grey wolf, and the Tibetan Mastiff belonged to Carnivora, Canidae, Canis, Canis lupus, Canis lupus familiaris on the animal taxonomy. In domestic dogs, the middle and small breed dogs were clustered at first; German Sheepdog, Swedish Elkhound, and Black Russian Terrier were clustered into one group, and the Tibetan Mastiff, Old English Sheepdog, Leonberger, and Saint Bernard were clustered in another group. This confirmed the viewpoint that many of the famous large breed dogs worldwide such as Saint Bernard possibly had the blood lineage of the Tibetan Mastiff, based on the molecular data. According to the substitution rate, we concluded that the approximate divergence time between Tibetan Mastiff and grey wolf was 58,000 years before the present （YBP）, and the approximate divergence time between other domestic dogs and grey wolf was 42,000 YBP, demonstrating that the time of origin of the Tibetan Mastiff was earlier than that of the other domestic dogs.展开更多
Objective: The present study is designed to investigate the cellular expressions and immunolocalizations of three different nitric oxide synthase (NOS) isoforms and the related nitric oxide (NO)/cyclic guanosine monop...Objective: The present study is designed to investigate the cellular expressions and immunolocalizations of three different nitric oxide synthase (NOS) isoforms and the related nitric oxide (NO)/cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) signaling pathway in the ovaries of neonatal and immature rats.Methods: The ovaries were obtained from ICR (Institute for Cancer Research) female Sprague-Dawley rats at postnatal days 1,5,7,10,and 19.Then we carried out the histologic examination,immunohistochemistry,measurement of NOS activity,and modifications within the NO/cGMP pathway.Results: During postnatal days 1,5,7,10,and 19,all three isoforms of NOS were mainly localized to the oocytes and expressed as a gradual increase in granulosa cells and theca cells within the growing follicle.The ovarian total NOS activities and NO levels were increased at postnatal days 7 and 10 compared with other days.Conclusions: Our findings suggest that the locally produced NO and the NO/NOS signaling systems are involved in the follicular development to puberty.展开更多
Chinese tree shrews (Tupaia belangeri chinensis) have become an increasingly important experimental animal in biomedical research due to their close relationship to primates. An accurately sequenced and assembled geno...Chinese tree shrews (Tupaia belangeri chinensis) have become an increasingly important experimental animal in biomedical research due to their close relationship to primates. An accurately sequenced and assembled genome is essential for understanding the genetic features and biology of this animal. In this study, we used long-read single-molecule sequencing and high-throughput chromosome conformation capture (Hi-C) technology to obtain a high-qualitychromosome-scale scaffolding of the Chinese tree shrew genome. The new reference genome (KIZ version 2: TS_2.0) resolved problems in presently available tree shrew genomes and enabled accurate identification of large and complex repeat regions, gene structures, and species-specific genomic structural variants. In addition, by sequencing the genomes of six Chinese tree shrew individuals, we produced a comprehensive map of 12.8 M single nucleotide polymorphisms and confirmed that the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) loci and immunoglobulin gene family exhibited high nucleotide diversity in the tree shrew genome. We updated the tree shrew genome database (TreeshrewDB v2.0: http://www.treeshrewdb.org) to include the genome annotation information and genetic variations. The new high-quality reference genome of the Chinese tree shrew and the updated TreeshrewDB will facilitate the use of this animal in many different fields of research.展开更多
Objective: To analyze the phytochemical constituents, and to explore potential protective effect of the methanol extract of Moringa oleifera(M. oleifera) seeds and Egyptian propolis, each alone or concurrently adminis...Objective: To analyze the phytochemical constituents, and to explore potential protective effect of the methanol extract of Moringa oleifera(M. oleifera) seeds and Egyptian propolis, each alone or concurrently administered on acetic acid-induced ulcerative colitis in rats. Methods: Eight groups of 5 rats each were used: normal control group with distilled water, model group, two groups with M. oleifera seeds(100 and 200 mg/kg), two groups with propolis(50 and 100 mg/kg), one group with concurrent administration of both, and one group with prednisolone(reference drug). Macro-and microscopic picture, ulcer index and lesion scores, oxidative markers, inflammatory mediators, in vitro activity of the inflammatory enzymes and 1, 1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl free radicals scavenging activity were evaluated. The phytochemical constituents of both extracts were explored by GC-MS analysis. Results: Both treatments modulated the macro-and microscopic picture, decreased the ulcerative index, lesion score, oxidative markers and inflammatory mediators, and inhibited the COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes. Propolis appeared to be powerful free radicals scavenger. A powerful synergistic effect of both treatments in modulating the course of the disease was reported. GCMS analysis of methanol extract of M. oleifera seeds and propolis revealed the presence of 50 and 34 compounds, respectively. Conclusions: M. oleifera seeds and propolis methanol extracts have modulated the course of acetic acid-induced ulcerative colitis. Moreover, both treatments induce a good synergistic effect against the disease. Isolation of the active constituents is recommended.展开更多
[Objective] The paper was to investigate effects of pelleted total mixed ration on production performance and serum biochemical index of growing Hainan black goats.[Method] Twenty-four growing Hainan black goats with ...[Objective] The paper was to investigate effects of pelleted total mixed ration on production performance and serum biochemical index of growing Hainan black goats.[Method] Twenty-four growing Hainan black goats with the same genetic backgrounds and similar initial weight of(10.05±0.049) kg were randomly assigned into two treatments, and supplied with Juncao + concentrate(control group), pelleted total mixed ration(experimental group), respectively. The trial lasted 50 d.[Result] The final weight, daily gain and feed intake of experimental group were significantly higher than those of control group(P<0.05), but the feed/gain ratio of experimental group was markedly lower than that of control group(P<0.05). Compared with the control group, the gross profit of experimental group significantly increased( P <0.05).[Conclusion] Pelleted total mixed ration led to better production performance of growing Hainan black goat.展开更多
[Objective] The study was carried out to investigate the effects of dietary crude fiber on growth performance and serum biochemical in-dex of Dingan geese aged from 35 to 70 days.[Method] A total of 120 Dingan geese o...[Objective] The study was carried out to investigate the effects of dietary crude fiber on growth performance and serum biochemical in-dex of Dingan geese aged from 35 to 70 days.[Method] A total of 120 Dingan geese on day 28 with the same genetic background and similar initial weight(1 384.83.73±0.76 g) were randomly assigned into 3 groups, with 4 replicates per group and 10 geese per replicate. Geese were fed the diets containing 4.29%, 5.29% and 6.29 % crude fiber, respectively. The experiment lasted 35 d.[Result] Final weight and daily gain of 5.29 %CF group were significantly higher than those of 6.29 % CF group(P<0.05);Feed intake was markedly higher than those of 4.29% and 6.29 % CF groups(P<0.05);Feed gain ratio was significantly lower than that of 6.29 % CF group(P<0.05). Compared with 4.29% and 6.29 % CF groups, serum albumin concentrations of 5.29 % CF group increased significantly(P<0.05), while serum total protein and globin contents were higher(P>0.05), but serum uric acid level was lower(P>0.05).[Conclusion] 5.29 % crude fiber could lead to higher growth performance of Dingan geese.展开更多
Background： In order to improve the efficiency of bovine sperm cryopreservation process, it is important to understand how spermatozoa respond to differences in temperature as well as the ability to recover its own m...Background： In order to improve the efficiency of bovine sperm cryopreservation process, it is important to understand how spermatozoa respond to differences in temperature as well as the ability to recover its own metabolism. The combination between flow cytometry approach and antioxidant enzymes activity allows a more sensible evaluation of sperm cell during cryopreservation. The aim of this study was to evaluate sperm attributes and antioxidant enzymes activity during different stages of cryopreservation process. Semen samples from Holstein bulls （n = 4） were separated in 3 treatments： fresh （37 ℃）; cooled （5 ℃）; and thawed. Evaluation occurred at 0 h and 2 h after incubation. Membrane integrity, mitochondrial membrane potential （MMP） and DNA damages were evaluated by flow cytometry; activities of antioxidant enzymes such as catalase, superoxide dismutase and gluthatione peroxidase were measured by spectrofotometry. Results： There was an increase in the percentage of sperm with DNA damage in the thawed group, compared to fresh and cooled, and for 2 hs of incubation when compared to 0 h. Considering MMP, there was an increase in the percentage of cells with medium potential in thawed group when compared to fresh and cooled groups. Opposingly, a decrease was observed in the thawed group considering high mitochondrial potential. Also in the thawed group, there was an increase on cells with damaged acrosome and membrane when compared to fresh and cooled groups. Significant correlations were found between antioxidant enzymes activity and membrane or mitochondrial parameters. Conclusion： Based on our results, we conclude that cryopreservation affects cellular and DNA integrity and that the critical moment is when sperm cells are exposed to freezing temperature. Also, our study indicates that intracellular antioxidant machinery （SOD and GPX enzymes） is not enough to control cryodamage.展开更多
Background: In beef cattle, changes in the periovulatory endocrine milieu are associated with fertility and conceptus growth. A large preovulatory follicle(POF) and the resulting elevated concentrations of progesteron...Background: In beef cattle, changes in the periovulatory endocrine milieu are associated with fertility and conceptus growth. A large preovulatory follicle(POF) and the resulting elevated concentrations of progesterone(P4) during diestrus positively affect pregnancy rates. Amino acids(AA) are important components of maternally derived secretions that are crucial for embryonic survival before implantation. The hypothesis is that the size of the POF and the concentration of P4 in early diestrus modulate the endometrial abundance of SLC transcripts related to AA transport and metabolism and subsequently impact luminal concentrations of AA. The follicle growth of Nelore cows was manipulated to produce two experimental groups: large POF and CL(LF-LCL group) and small POF and CL(SF-SCL group). On Day 4(D4; Experiment 1) and Day 7(D7; Experiment 2) after Gn RH-induced ovulation(Gn RH treatment = D0), the animals were slaughtered and uterine tissues and uterine washings were collected. q RT-PCR was used to evaluate the expression levels of AA transporters in D4 and D7 endometrial tissues.The concentrations of AA were quantified in D4 and D7 uterine washings by HPLC.Results: Transcript results show that, on D4, SLC6 A6, SLC7 A4, SLC17 A5, SLC38 A1, SLC38 A7 and SCLY and on D7 SLC1 A4, SLC6 A1, SLC6 A14, SLC7 A4, SLC7 A7, SLC7 A8, SLC17 A5, SLC38 A1, SLC38 A7, SLC43 A2 and DDO were more abundant in the endometria of cows from the LF-LCL group(P < 0.05). In addition, concentrations of AA in the uterine lumen were influenced by the endocrine profiles of the mother. In this context, D4 uterine washings revealed that greater concentrations of taurine, alanine and α-aminobutyric acid were present in SF-SCL(P < 0.05).In contrast, lower concentrations of valine and cystathionine were quantified on D7 uterine washings from SF-SCL cows(P < 0.05).Conclusion: The present study revealed an association between the abundance of transcripts related to AA transport and metabolism in the endometrium and specific periovulatory endocrine profiles related to the receptive status of the mother. Such insights suggest that AAs are involved in uterine function to support embryo development.展开更多
This work evaluates sperm head morphometric characteristics in adolescents from 12 to 18 years of age, and the effect of varicocele. Volunteers between 150 and 224 months of age （mean 191, n = 87）, who had reached o...This work evaluates sperm head morphometric characteristics in adolescents from 12 to 18 years of age, and the effect of varicocele. Volunteers between 150 and 224 months of age （mean 191, n = 87）, who had reached oigarche by 12 years old, were recruited in the area of Barranquilla, Colombia. Morphometric analysis of sperm heads was performed with principal component （PC） and discriminant analysis, Combining seminal fluid and sperm parameters provided five PCs： two related to sperm morphometry, one to sperm motility, and two to seminal fluid components. Discriminant analysis on the morphometric results of varicocele and nonvaricocele groups did not provide a useful classification matrix. Of the semen-related PCs, the most explanatory （40%） was related to sperm motility. Two PCs, including sperm head elongation and size, were sufficient to evaluate sperm morphometric characteristics. Most of the morphometric variables were correlated with age, with an increase in size and decrease in the elongation of the sperm head. For head size, the entire sperm population could be divided into two morphometric subpopulations, SP1 and SP2, which did not change during adolescence. In general, for varicocele individuals, SP1 had larger and more elongated sperm heads than SP2, which had smaller and more elongated heads than in nonvaricocele men. In summary, sperm head morphometry assessed by CASA-Morph and multivariate cluster analysis provides a better comprehension of the ejaculate structure and possibly sperm function. Morphometric analysis provides much more information than data obtained from conventional semen analysis.展开更多
Background Extracellular vesicles(EVs) present in oviductal(OF) and uterine fluid(UF) have been shown to enhance bovine embryo quality during in vitro culture by reducing lipid contents and modulating lipid metabolism...Background Extracellular vesicles(EVs) present in oviductal(OF) and uterine fluid(UF) have been shown to enhance bovine embryo quality during in vitro culture by reducing lipid contents and modulating lipid metabolism-related genes(LMGs), while also influencing cell proliferation, suggesting their involvement on the regulation of different biological pathways. The regulation of signaling pathways related to cell differentiation, proliferation, and metabo-lism is crucial for early embryo development and can determine the success or failure of the pregnancy. Bioactive molecules within EVs in maternal reproductive fluids, such as micro RNAs(miRNAs), may contribute to this regulatory process as they modulate gene expression through post-transcriptional mechanisms.Results This study evaluated miRNA cargo in OF-EVs from the early luteal phase and UF-EVs from the mid-luteal phase, coinciding with embryo transit within oviduct and uterus in vivo, and its possible influence on LMGs and sign-aling pathways crucial for early embryo development. A total of 333 miRNAs were detected, with 11 exclusive to OF, 59 to UF, and 263 were common between both groups. From the 20 differentially expressed miRNAs, 19 up-regulated in UF-EVs(bta-miR-134, bta-miR-151-3p, bta-miR-155, bta-miR-188, bta-miR-181b, bta-miR-181d, bta-miR-224, bta-miR-23b-3p, bta-miR-24-3p, bta-miR-27a-3p, bta-miR-29a, bta-miR-324, bta-miR-326, bta-miR-345-3p, bta-miR-410, bta-miR-652, bta-miR-677, bta-miR-873 and bta-miR-708) and one(bta-miR-148b) in OF-EVs. These miRNAs were predicted to modulate several pathways such as Wnt, Hippo, MAPK, and lipid metabolism and degradation. Differ-ences in miRNAs found in OF-EVs from the early luteal phase and UF-EVs from mid-luteal phase may reflect differ-ent environments to meet the changing needs of the embryo. Additionally, miRNAs may be involved, particularly in the uterus, in the regulation of embryo lipid metabolism, immune system, and implantation.Conclusions Our study suggests that miRNAs within OF- and UF-EVs could modulate bovine embryo development and quality, providing insights into the intricate maternal-embryonic communication that might be involved in mod-ulating lipid metabolism, immune response, and implantation during early pregnancy.展开更多
Dear Editor, In the central nervous system, cell migration and accumulation occur widely to construct a complex neural network during mammalian development [1]. Previous studies reported that both the gaseous messeng...Dear Editor, In the central nervous system, cell migration and accumulation occur widely to construct a complex neural network during mammalian development [1]. Previous studies reported that both the gaseous messenger molecule nitric oxide （NO） [2-4] and widely studied axon guidance/migration cues such as Netrins [5, 6] regulated the migratory behavior of cells in the nervous system.展开更多
[Objective]The paper was to investigate the effects of dietary concentrate to forage ratios on production performance and serum bio-chemical indicators of post-fattening Hainan Yellow Cattle.[Method]Sixteen Hainan Yel...[Objective]The paper was to investigate the effects of dietary concentrate to forage ratios on production performance and serum bio-chemical indicators of post-fattening Hainan Yellow Cattle.[Method]Sixteen Hainan Yellow Cattles with the same genetic backgrounds and similar initial weight of(242.22 ±0.71 kg) were randomly divided into four treatments.Cattles were fed with diets of different concentrate to forage ratios(20:80, group Ⅰ;30:70, Group Ⅱ;40:60, group Ⅲ;50:50, group Ⅳ).The trial lasted 62 d.[Result]The daily gain in experimental group Ⅳ was significantly higher than that in experimental group Ⅱ(P<0.05), but the feed gain ratio in experimental group Ⅳ was lower than those in other ex-perimental groups(P>0.05).The feed intake in experimental group Ⅳ was also markedly higher than those in experimental groups Ⅰ and Ⅱ(P<0.05).Compared with the experimental group Ⅱ, the gross profit of experimental group Ⅳ was significantly promoted(P<0.05).The alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase activities in experimental group Ⅱ were markedly higher than those in experimental groups Ⅰ, Ⅲ and Ⅳ.[Conclusion]When the dietary concentrate to forage ratios was 50∶50, the production performance of post-fattening Hainan Yellow Cattle was better.展开更多
It is well known that transit through the epididymis involves an increase in the compaction of sperm chromatin, which acquires fully condensed status at the caput epididymidis. The purpose of this study was to compare...It is well known that transit through the epididymis involves an increase in the compaction of sperm chromatin, which acquires fully condensed status at the caput epididymidis. The purpose of this study was to compare the terminal deoxyribonucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick end-labelling （TUNEL） assay, the comet assay, the sperm chromatin structure assay （SCSA） and the sperm chromatin dispersion （SCD） test by analysing spermatozoa from the caput and cauda epididymidis in order to demonstrate the ability of each technique to discriminate between different degrees of sperm maturity related to chromatin compaction and DNA fragmentation. Our results suggest that some populations of DNA-fragmented spermatozoa associated with immature sperm can only be identified using the comet assay and the SCSA but not with the SCD test or the TUNEL assay.展开更多
基金supported by research projects:PID2019-111641RB-I00 and PID2023-149027OB-I00 funded by MCIN/AEI/10.13039/501100011033/to DR and PRE2020-094452 to RM。
文摘Backgroud Efficient communication between the embryo and the endometrium is essential for the successful establishment and maintenance of pregnancy.Uterine-derived extracellular vesicles(EVs)contribute to embryomaternal communication,supporting early embryonic development.This study aimed to:(i)compare the protein cargo of uterine fluid EVs(UF-EVs)from CYCLIC and PREGNANT heifers;(ii)characterize the protein profile of conditioned medium(CM)-EVs from endometrial explants cultured alone(EXPL)or co-cultured with five d 7 blastocysts(EXPL+EMB)in vitro;and(iii)compare the EV protein cargo between the in vivo and in vitro models(i.e.,EXPL vs.CYCLIC and EXPL+EMB vs.PREGNANT).Results We identified 1,459 and 1,752 proteins in the UF-EVs of CYCLIC and PREGNANT heifers,respectively.Among these,12 were exclusive to CYCLIC,and 18 were exclusive to PREGNANT.Among the 1,329 proteins identified in both groups,16 were differently abundant;ten were more abundant,and six were less abundant in UF-EVs from PREGNANT heifers.In vivo,the changes in UF-EV protein cargo induced by the presence of a blastocyst were related to inflammatory and immune responses,endometrial receptivity,and support of early embryonic development by promoting cell polarity,cell–cell adhesion,and stem cell differentiation.In vitro,we identified 1,501 proteins in the CM-EVs from EXPL,1,975 in the CM-EVs from EXPL+EMB,and 82 in the CM-EVs from EMB.Additionally,50 proteins were unique to EXPL+EMB,and another 33 were differentially abundant due to the synergistic interaction between the embryo and the endometrium.These proteins are involved in embryonic development,regulation of stem cell differentiation,establishment and maintenance of cell polarity,interferon tau(IFNT)-mediated cell signaling,endometrial receptivity,and immune modulation.Although there are qualitative and quantitative differences between in vivo and in vitro-derived EVs,UF-EVs from CYCLIC heifers compared to CM-EVs from EXPL,as well as UFEVs from PREGNANT heifers compared to CM-EVs from EXPL+EMB shared common proteins.Conclusions These findings highlight the pivotal role of EVs in embryo-maternal communication,suggesting that their protein cargo may actively contribute to the modulation of the uterine environment to support early embryonic development.Understanding these molecular interactions could provide valuable insights into the mechanisms of implantation and pregnancy establishment.
文摘The livestock sector is a vital component of India's agricultural economy,providing essential support to rural communities and ensuring food security.Efficient reproductive performance is critical to sustaining livestock productivity,yet age-related declines in both male and female fertility pose significant challenges.The current review highlights that male reproductive efficiency is closely tied to semen quality,which deteriorates with age due to oxidative stress,leading to reduced fertilizing capacity and embryonic developmental potential.Similarly,female reproductive longevity is predominantly influenced by ovarian health,which declines with age due to diminished oocyte quality and quantity.This decline is exacerbated by oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction,leading to reproductive senescence and reduced offspring viability.Understanding the mechanisms of reproductive aging and developing strategies to mitigate its effects are crucial for enhancing livestock productivity and sustaining the agrarian economy.
基金supported by the Major Basic Research Program(Nos.2012CB944404 and 2011CB944501)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.30930065)to Q.Y.S
文摘The mitochondrion is the major energy provider to power sperm motility. In mammals, aside from the nuclear genome, mitochondrial DNA （mtDNA） also contributes to oxidative phosphorylation to impact production of ATP by coding 13 polypeptides. However, the role of sperm mitochondria in fertilization and its final fate after fertilization are still controversial. The viewpoints that sperm bearing more mtDNA will have a better fertilizing capability and that sperm mtDNA is actively eliminated during early embryogenesis are widely accepted. However, this may be not true for several mammalian species, including mice and humans. Here, we review the sperm mitochondria and their mtDNA in sperm functions, and the mechanisms of maternal mitochondrial inheritance in mammals.
文摘Postcopulatory sexual selection through sperm competition may be an important evolutionary force affecting many reproductive traits, including sperm morphometrics. Environmental factors such as pollutants, pesticides, and climate change may affect different sperm traits, and thus reproduction, in sensitive bird species. Many sperm-handling processes used in assisted reproductive techniques may also affect the size of sperm cells. The accurately measured dimensions of sperm cell structures （especially the head） can thus be used as indicators of environmental influences, in improving our understanding of reproductive and evolutionary strategies, and for optimizing assisted reproductive techniques （e.g., sperm cryopreservation） for use with birds. Computer-assisted sperm morphometry analysis （CASA-Morph） provides an accurate and reliable method for assessing sperm morphometry, reducing the problem of subjectivity associated with human visual assessment. Computerized systems have been standardized for use with semen from different mammalian species. Avian spermatozoa, however, are filiform, limiting their analysis with such systems, which were developed to examine the approximately spherical heads of mammalian sperm cells. To help overcome this, the standardization of staining techniques to be used in compute^-assessed light microscopical methods is a priority. The present review discusses these points and describes the sperm morphometric characteristics of several wild and domestic bird species.
基金Project supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.31572403,31172206,and 31402075)
文摘This study evaluated the effects of comorbid disorders of diabetes and hyperthyroidism in the adult male mice. In total, 32 ICR strain mice were equally distributed into four groups： control （C）, diabetic （D）, diabetic-plus- hyperthyroid （DH）, and hyperthyroid （H）. Mice allocated for diabetes received a single intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin （STZ） at 200 mg/kg body weight. At the onset of diabetes, one group of mice was concomitantly injected levothyroxine （LT4; 0.3 mg/kg body weight） and the other set of animals received the same treatment independently on a daily basis. The body weight, as well as the testicular and epididymal weights, was reduced markedly in D and DH mice. Higher trends of blood glucose levels were seen in the DH group, in comparison to euthyroid diabetic mice. Thyroid hormones could exert a transient effect on blood glucose homeostasis by altering the serum blood glucose level in diabetic patients. Histomorphometric analysis showed increased luminal sizes of seminiferous tubules, along with decreased epithelial height and atrophic changes in germinal stem cells in the testis of DH and H mice. Caput epididymis of DH mice showed extensive compaction of principal cells, loss of stereocilia, lipid vacuolization, and inflammatory infiltrations; however, damaged tubular integrity, packed clear cells, exfoliated cells, and round sperma- tids were profoundly noticed in the cauda epididymis. Hyperthyroidism elevated the serum testosterone levels in H and DH mice and produced critical damages to the histoarchitecture of the epididymis. Collectively, this experiment en- deavored to mimic the polyglandular autoimmune syndrome, which will be helpful to better understand the reasons for male infertility in diabetic-cum-hyperthyroid patients.
文摘Objective: To evaluate the potential antioxidant and hepatoprotective effects of n-hexane, dichloromethane(DCM), ethyl acetate(EtOAc), n-butanol and aqueous fractions of Moringa oleifera(M. oleifera) leaves methanol extract against carbon tetrachloride(CCl_4)-induced liver injury in rats. Methods: These fractions were prepared from the M. oleifera leaves methanol extract by solubilization in water and partitioning in n-hexane, EtOAc, DCM and n-butanol. Their phyto-components were identified by GC-MS analysis. The in vitro antioxidant effect of these fractions was carried out by assessment of 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl scavenging activity. A total of 40 Sprague Dawley rats were allocated into 8 equal groups: group 1 given olive oil(1 m L/kg b.wt.), group 2 injected with CCl_4, group 3 to 7 administered with n-hexane, DCM, EtOAc, n-butanol and aqueous fractions, respectively after CCl_4, group 8 administered with silymarin after CCl_4. The activities of aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, and the levels of total cholesterol, triglycerides, glucose, total proteins and albumin in serum were determined spectrophotometrically. Glutathione reduced, lipid peroxide by-products levels, glutathione-s-transferase and catalase enzyme activities in the liver homogenate were determined by spectrophotometer. Liver specimens were also examined for histopathological alterations under light microscope. Results: The GCMS analysis of different fractions of the M. oleifera leaves methanol extract revealed that n-hexane, DCM, EtOAc, n-butanol, and aqueous fractions contained 17, 22, 23, 19 and 32 compounds, respectively. The percent and the molecular structure of each component in each fraction were identified. The n-butanol and EtOAc fractions exhibited the strongest in vitro antioxidant activity against 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl. CCl_4 significantly decreased glutathione reduced and total proteins concentration and glutathione-s-transferase and catalase activities but increased lipid peroxide by-products and total cholesterol levels. The n-hexane followed by aqueous and DCM fractions were the most potent to regulate serum enzyme activities and lipid peroxide by-products levels in the liver homogenate. Conclusions: n-hexane, DCM, and aqueous fractions have the highest effectiveness against CCl_4-induced hepatotoxicity. Isolation and purification of the active constituents require further experiments.
文摘Twenty four first weaned sows Duroc × Landrace× Veredeld Duits Landvarken （VDL）, average live weight 135-190 kg （11% coefficient of variation （CV）） were allocated to four treatments （six animals/group/treatment） in a randomized block design to evaluate the effect of fermented tamarind seeds （FTS） supplementation during estrus to lactation period on the performance of sows and weaned piglets. There were four treatment diets offered： basal diet （T0）, T0 ＋ 5% FTS （T1）, T0 ＋ 7.5% FTS （T2） and T0 ＋ 10% FTS （T3）. Supplementing sows with 5%-10% FTS increased daily feed intake at all stages and 10% FTS supplementation level performed the highest （P 〈 0.05） at all stages of pregnancy. Litter size increased 1-2 piglets/sow, piglets born alive increased 1.3-3 piglets/sow, piglet birth weight increased 10-160 g/piglet and weaned piglets increased 3.3-5.3 piglets/sow, while mortality was reduced of 18%-27% per sow. Inclusion of FTS at level of 10% in the diet of sows had the highest daily live weight gain of piglets during four suckling weeks （P 〈 0.05）. However, there was no significant difference （P 〈 0.05） among treatments on daily live weight gain of piglets at week 1-2. This study revealed that supplementing sows with FTS during estrus to lactation period improved sows＇ and piglets＇ performances, and reduced piglets＇ mortality up to 29% at weaning.
文摘At present, the Tibetan Mastiff is the oldest and most ferocious dog in the world. However, the origin of the Tibetan Mastiff and its phylogenetic relationship with other large breed dogs such as Saint Bernard are unclear. In this study, the primers were designed accord- ing to the mitochondrial genome sequence of the domestic dog, and the 2,525 bp mitochondrial sequence, containing the whole sequence of Cytochrome b, tRNA-Thr, tRNA-Pro, and control region of the Tibetan Mastiff, was obtained. Using grey wolves and coyotes as out- groups, the Tibetan Mastiff and 12 breeds of domestic dogs were analyzed in phylogenesis. Tibetan Mastiff, domestic dog breeds, and grey wolves were clustered into a group and coyotes were clustered in a group separately. This indicated that the Tibetan Mastiff and the other domestic dogs originated from the grey wolf, and the Tibetan Mastiff belonged to Carnivora, Canidae, Canis, Canis lupus, Canis lupus familiaris on the animal taxonomy. In domestic dogs, the middle and small breed dogs were clustered at first; German Sheepdog, Swedish Elkhound, and Black Russian Terrier were clustered into one group, and the Tibetan Mastiff, Old English Sheepdog, Leonberger, and Saint Bernard were clustered in another group. This confirmed the viewpoint that many of the famous large breed dogs worldwide such as Saint Bernard possibly had the blood lineage of the Tibetan Mastiff, based on the molecular data. According to the substitution rate, we concluded that the approximate divergence time between Tibetan Mastiff and grey wolf was 58,000 years before the present （YBP）, and the approximate divergence time between other domestic dogs and grey wolf was 42,000 YBP, demonstrating that the time of origin of the Tibetan Mastiff was earlier than that of the other domestic dogs.
基金Project supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (No.30771553)National Basic Research Program (973) of China (No.2007CB947403)
文摘Objective: The present study is designed to investigate the cellular expressions and immunolocalizations of three different nitric oxide synthase (NOS) isoforms and the related nitric oxide (NO)/cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) signaling pathway in the ovaries of neonatal and immature rats.Methods: The ovaries were obtained from ICR (Institute for Cancer Research) female Sprague-Dawley rats at postnatal days 1,5,7,10,and 19.Then we carried out the histologic examination,immunohistochemistry,measurement of NOS activity,and modifications within the NO/cGMP pathway.Results: During postnatal days 1,5,7,10,and 19,all three isoforms of NOS were mainly localized to the oocytes and expressed as a gradual increase in granulosa cells and theca cells within the growing follicle.The ovarian total NOS activities and NO levels were increased at postnatal days 7 and 10 compared with other days.Conclusions: Our findings suggest that the locally produced NO and the NO/NOS signaling systems are involved in the follicular development to puberty.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(U1402224,31601010,81571998,and U1702284)Yunnan Province(2015HA038 and 2018FB054)Chinese Academy of Sciences(CAS zsys-02)
文摘Chinese tree shrews (Tupaia belangeri chinensis) have become an increasingly important experimental animal in biomedical research due to their close relationship to primates. An accurately sequenced and assembled genome is essential for understanding the genetic features and biology of this animal. In this study, we used long-read single-molecule sequencing and high-throughput chromosome conformation capture (Hi-C) technology to obtain a high-qualitychromosome-scale scaffolding of the Chinese tree shrew genome. The new reference genome (KIZ version 2: TS_2.0) resolved problems in presently available tree shrew genomes and enabled accurate identification of large and complex repeat regions, gene structures, and species-specific genomic structural variants. In addition, by sequencing the genomes of six Chinese tree shrew individuals, we produced a comprehensive map of 12.8 M single nucleotide polymorphisms and confirmed that the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) loci and immunoglobulin gene family exhibited high nucleotide diversity in the tree shrew genome. We updated the tree shrew genome database (TreeshrewDB v2.0: http://www.treeshrewdb.org) to include the genome annotation information and genetic variations. The new high-quality reference genome of the Chinese tree shrew and the updated TreeshrewDB will facilitate the use of this animal in many different fields of research.
文摘Objective: To analyze the phytochemical constituents, and to explore potential protective effect of the methanol extract of Moringa oleifera(M. oleifera) seeds and Egyptian propolis, each alone or concurrently administered on acetic acid-induced ulcerative colitis in rats. Methods: Eight groups of 5 rats each were used: normal control group with distilled water, model group, two groups with M. oleifera seeds(100 and 200 mg/kg), two groups with propolis(50 and 100 mg/kg), one group with concurrent administration of both, and one group with prednisolone(reference drug). Macro-and microscopic picture, ulcer index and lesion scores, oxidative markers, inflammatory mediators, in vitro activity of the inflammatory enzymes and 1, 1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl free radicals scavenging activity were evaluated. The phytochemical constituents of both extracts were explored by GC-MS analysis. Results: Both treatments modulated the macro-and microscopic picture, decreased the ulcerative index, lesion score, oxidative markers and inflammatory mediators, and inhibited the COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes. Propolis appeared to be powerful free radicals scavenger. A powerful synergistic effect of both treatments in modulating the course of the disease was reported. GCMS analysis of methanol extract of M. oleifera seeds and propolis revealed the presence of 50 and 34 compounds, respectively. Conclusions: M. oleifera seeds and propolis methanol extracts have modulated the course of acetic acid-induced ulcerative colitis. Moreover, both treatments induce a good synergistic effect against the disease. Isolation of the active constituents is recommended.
基金Supported by Major Science and Technology Program of Hainan Province(ZDKJ2016017-01,ZDKJ2016017-03)
文摘[Objective] The paper was to investigate effects of pelleted total mixed ration on production performance and serum biochemical index of growing Hainan black goats.[Method] Twenty-four growing Hainan black goats with the same genetic backgrounds and similar initial weight of(10.05±0.049) kg were randomly assigned into two treatments, and supplied with Juncao + concentrate(control group), pelleted total mixed ration(experimental group), respectively. The trial lasted 50 d.[Result] The final weight, daily gain and feed intake of experimental group were significantly higher than those of control group(P<0.05), but the feed/gain ratio of experimental group was markedly lower than that of control group(P<0.05). Compared with the control group, the gross profit of experimental group significantly increased( P <0.05).[Conclusion] Pelleted total mixed ration led to better production performance of growing Hainan black goat.
基金Special Project for Technical Development of Hainan Scientific Research Institutions(SQ2017JSKF0008)China Agricultural Industry Research System(CARS-43-42)
文摘[Objective] The study was carried out to investigate the effects of dietary crude fiber on growth performance and serum biochemical in-dex of Dingan geese aged from 35 to 70 days.[Method] A total of 120 Dingan geese on day 28 with the same genetic background and similar initial weight(1 384.83.73±0.76 g) were randomly assigned into 3 groups, with 4 replicates per group and 10 geese per replicate. Geese were fed the diets containing 4.29%, 5.29% and 6.29 % crude fiber, respectively. The experiment lasted 35 d.[Result] Final weight and daily gain of 5.29 %CF group were significantly higher than those of 6.29 % CF group(P<0.05);Feed intake was markedly higher than those of 4.29% and 6.29 % CF groups(P<0.05);Feed gain ratio was significantly lower than that of 6.29 % CF group(P<0.05). Compared with 4.29% and 6.29 % CF groups, serum albumin concentrations of 5.29 % CF group increased significantly(P<0.05), while serum total protein and globin contents were higher(P>0.05), but serum uric acid level was lower(P>0.05).[Conclusion] 5.29 % crude fiber could lead to higher growth performance of Dingan geese.
基金supported by Sao Paulo Research Foundation(FAPESP),process number 2010/18978-9 and 2007/58487-1
文摘Background： In order to improve the efficiency of bovine sperm cryopreservation process, it is important to understand how spermatozoa respond to differences in temperature as well as the ability to recover its own metabolism. The combination between flow cytometry approach and antioxidant enzymes activity allows a more sensible evaluation of sperm cell during cryopreservation. The aim of this study was to evaluate sperm attributes and antioxidant enzymes activity during different stages of cryopreservation process. Semen samples from Holstein bulls （n = 4） were separated in 3 treatments： fresh （37 ℃）; cooled （5 ℃）; and thawed. Evaluation occurred at 0 h and 2 h after incubation. Membrane integrity, mitochondrial membrane potential （MMP） and DNA damages were evaluated by flow cytometry; activities of antioxidant enzymes such as catalase, superoxide dismutase and gluthatione peroxidase were measured by spectrofotometry. Results： There was an increase in the percentage of sperm with DNA damage in the thawed group, compared to fresh and cooled, and for 2 hs of incubation when compared to 0 h. Considering MMP, there was an increase in the percentage of cells with medium potential in thawed group when compared to fresh and cooled groups. Opposingly, a decrease was observed in the thawed group considering high mitochondrial potential. Also in the thawed group, there was an increase on cells with damaged acrosome and membrane when compared to fresh and cooled groups. Significant correlations were found between antioxidant enzymes activity and membrane or mitochondrial parameters. Conclusion： Based on our results, we conclude that cryopreservation affects cellular and DNA integrity and that the critical moment is when sperm cells are exposed to freezing temperature. Also, our study indicates that intracellular antioxidant machinery （SOD and GPX enzymes） is not enough to control cryodamage.
基金FAPESP 2014/01727-4 to MISSCNPq-481199/2012-8 and FAPESP-2011/03226-4 to MBCNPq 140527/2013-3 to MRF
文摘Background: In beef cattle, changes in the periovulatory endocrine milieu are associated with fertility and conceptus growth. A large preovulatory follicle(POF) and the resulting elevated concentrations of progesterone(P4) during diestrus positively affect pregnancy rates. Amino acids(AA) are important components of maternally derived secretions that are crucial for embryonic survival before implantation. The hypothesis is that the size of the POF and the concentration of P4 in early diestrus modulate the endometrial abundance of SLC transcripts related to AA transport and metabolism and subsequently impact luminal concentrations of AA. The follicle growth of Nelore cows was manipulated to produce two experimental groups: large POF and CL(LF-LCL group) and small POF and CL(SF-SCL group). On Day 4(D4; Experiment 1) and Day 7(D7; Experiment 2) after Gn RH-induced ovulation(Gn RH treatment = D0), the animals were slaughtered and uterine tissues and uterine washings were collected. q RT-PCR was used to evaluate the expression levels of AA transporters in D4 and D7 endometrial tissues.The concentrations of AA were quantified in D4 and D7 uterine washings by HPLC.Results: Transcript results show that, on D4, SLC6 A6, SLC7 A4, SLC17 A5, SLC38 A1, SLC38 A7 and SCLY and on D7 SLC1 A4, SLC6 A1, SLC6 A14, SLC7 A4, SLC7 A7, SLC7 A8, SLC17 A5, SLC38 A1, SLC38 A7, SLC43 A2 and DDO were more abundant in the endometria of cows from the LF-LCL group(P < 0.05). In addition, concentrations of AA in the uterine lumen were influenced by the endocrine profiles of the mother. In this context, D4 uterine washings revealed that greater concentrations of taurine, alanine and α-aminobutyric acid were present in SF-SCL(P < 0.05).In contrast, lower concentrations of valine and cystathionine were quantified on D7 uterine washings from SF-SCL cows(P < 0.05).Conclusion: The present study revealed an association between the abundance of transcripts related to AA transport and metabolism in the endometrium and specific periovulatory endocrine profiles related to the receptive status of the mother. Such insights suggest that AAs are involved in uterine function to support embryo development.
文摘This work evaluates sperm head morphometric characteristics in adolescents from 12 to 18 years of age, and the effect of varicocele. Volunteers between 150 and 224 months of age （mean 191, n = 87）, who had reached oigarche by 12 years old, were recruited in the area of Barranquilla, Colombia. Morphometric analysis of sperm heads was performed with principal component （PC） and discriminant analysis, Combining seminal fluid and sperm parameters provided five PCs： two related to sperm morphometry, one to sperm motility, and two to seminal fluid components. Discriminant analysis on the morphometric results of varicocele and nonvaricocele groups did not provide a useful classification matrix. Of the semen-related PCs, the most explanatory （40%） was related to sperm motility. Two PCs, including sperm head elongation and size, were sufficient to evaluate sperm morphometric characteristics. Most of the morphometric variables were correlated with age, with an increase in size and decrease in the elongation of the sperm head. For head size, the entire sperm population could be divided into two morphometric subpopulations, SP1 and SP2, which did not change during adolescence. In general, for varicocele individuals, SP1 had larger and more elongated sperm heads than SP2, which had smaller and more elongated heads than in nonvaricocele men. In summary, sperm head morphometry assessed by CASA-Morph and multivariate cluster analysis provides a better comprehension of the ejaculate structure and possibly sperm function. Morphometric analysis provides much more information than data obtained from conventional semen analysis.
基金PID2019-111641RB-I00 funded by MCIN/AEI/10.13039/501100011033/to DR and PRE2020-094452 to RMFAPESP+2 种基金#2017/20339–3 and CNPq-Brazil (304276/2018–9) to CLVL and FAPESP#2014/22887–0 and 2015/21829–9 to JCSfunded by S?o Paulo Research Foundation,Brazilsupported by a Maria Zambrano contract,and YNC for a Margarita Salas contract,both funded by the European Union–Next Generation EU program。
文摘Background Extracellular vesicles(EVs) present in oviductal(OF) and uterine fluid(UF) have been shown to enhance bovine embryo quality during in vitro culture by reducing lipid contents and modulating lipid metabolism-related genes(LMGs), while also influencing cell proliferation, suggesting their involvement on the regulation of different biological pathways. The regulation of signaling pathways related to cell differentiation, proliferation, and metabo-lism is crucial for early embryo development and can determine the success or failure of the pregnancy. Bioactive molecules within EVs in maternal reproductive fluids, such as micro RNAs(miRNAs), may contribute to this regulatory process as they modulate gene expression through post-transcriptional mechanisms.Results This study evaluated miRNA cargo in OF-EVs from the early luteal phase and UF-EVs from the mid-luteal phase, coinciding with embryo transit within oviduct and uterus in vivo, and its possible influence on LMGs and sign-aling pathways crucial for early embryo development. A total of 333 miRNAs were detected, with 11 exclusive to OF, 59 to UF, and 263 were common between both groups. From the 20 differentially expressed miRNAs, 19 up-regulated in UF-EVs(bta-miR-134, bta-miR-151-3p, bta-miR-155, bta-miR-188, bta-miR-181b, bta-miR-181d, bta-miR-224, bta-miR-23b-3p, bta-miR-24-3p, bta-miR-27a-3p, bta-miR-29a, bta-miR-324, bta-miR-326, bta-miR-345-3p, bta-miR-410, bta-miR-652, bta-miR-677, bta-miR-873 and bta-miR-708) and one(bta-miR-148b) in OF-EVs. These miRNAs were predicted to modulate several pathways such as Wnt, Hippo, MAPK, and lipid metabolism and degradation. Differ-ences in miRNAs found in OF-EVs from the early luteal phase and UF-EVs from mid-luteal phase may reflect differ-ent environments to meet the changing needs of the embryo. Additionally, miRNAs may be involved, particularly in the uterus, in the regulation of embryo lipid metabolism, immune system, and implantation.Conclusions Our study suggests that miRNAs within OF- and UF-EVs could modulate bovine embryo development and quality, providing insights into the intricate maternal-embryonic communication that might be involved in mod-ulating lipid metabolism, immune response, and implantation during early pregnancy.
文摘Dear Editor, In the central nervous system, cell migration and accumulation occur widely to construct a complex neural network during mammalian development [1]. Previous studies reported that both the gaseous messenger molecule nitric oxide （NO） [2-4] and widely studied axon guidance/migration cues such as Netrins [5, 6] regulated the migratory behavior of cells in the nervous system.
基金Technical Development Project of Hainan Provincial Scientific Research Institutes(KYYS-2018-05)Special Funds for Central Government Guiding the Development of Local Science and Technology(ZY2019HN01).
文摘[Objective]The paper was to investigate the effects of dietary concentrate to forage ratios on production performance and serum bio-chemical indicators of post-fattening Hainan Yellow Cattle.[Method]Sixteen Hainan Yellow Cattles with the same genetic backgrounds and similar initial weight of(242.22 ±0.71 kg) were randomly divided into four treatments.Cattles were fed with diets of different concentrate to forage ratios(20:80, group Ⅰ;30:70, Group Ⅱ;40:60, group Ⅲ;50:50, group Ⅳ).The trial lasted 62 d.[Result]The daily gain in experimental group Ⅳ was significantly higher than that in experimental group Ⅱ(P<0.05), but the feed gain ratio in experimental group Ⅳ was lower than those in other ex-perimental groups(P>0.05).The feed intake in experimental group Ⅳ was also markedly higher than those in experimental groups Ⅰ and Ⅱ(P<0.05).Compared with the experimental group Ⅱ, the gross profit of experimental group Ⅳ was significantly promoted(P<0.05).The alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase activities in experimental group Ⅱ were markedly higher than those in experimental groups Ⅰ, Ⅲ and Ⅳ.[Conclusion]When the dietary concentrate to forage ratios was 50∶50, the production performance of post-fattening Hainan Yellow Cattle was better.
文摘It is well known that transit through the epididymis involves an increase in the compaction of sperm chromatin, which acquires fully condensed status at the caput epididymidis. The purpose of this study was to compare the terminal deoxyribonucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick end-labelling （TUNEL） assay, the comet assay, the sperm chromatin structure assay （SCSA） and the sperm chromatin dispersion （SCD） test by analysing spermatozoa from the caput and cauda epididymidis in order to demonstrate the ability of each technique to discriminate between different degrees of sperm maturity related to chromatin compaction and DNA fragmentation. Our results suggest that some populations of DNA-fragmented spermatozoa associated with immature sperm can only be identified using the comet assay and the SCSA but not with the SCD test or the TUNEL assay.
