Search for Articles:
Title / Keyword
Author / Affiliation / Email
Journal
Article Type
 
 
Advanced Search
 
Section
Special Issue
Volume
Issue
Number
Page
 
9.9
6.0
Journals
Cells
Special Issues
Recent Advances in Mammalian Reproductive Biology—a Focus on Development of...
share announcement

Recent Advances in Mammalian Reproductive Biology—a Focus on Development of Gametes and Embryos

A special issue of Cells (ISSN 2073-4409). This special issue belongs to the section "Reproductive Cells and Development".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 July 2024 | Viewed by 17025

Special Issue Editor

Dr. Izhar Hyder Qazi

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Shaheed Benazir Bhutto University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences Sakrand, 67210 Sindh, Pakistan
Interests: reproductive biology; experimental embryology; molecular embryology; IVF; ovarian biology; sperm biology; histology; reproductive aging; oxidative stress; ROS and RNS; antioxidants; RNA sequencing; trace elements; selenium; selenoproteins; oocyte cryopreservation; sperm cryopreservation; fertility
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

It has been known that the delicate balance in redox regulation is important for the optimal functioning of cells. Among many critical facets, oxidative stress-inflicted damage has been shown to have an important bearing on the development of gametes and embryos. For instance, recent studies suggest that alterations in redox status lead to oxidative stress and adversely affect the biology of (oocyte and sperm) gamete and the resulting embryos, potentially by altering the expression of biologically important markers and activity of endogenous antioxidants. Therefore, elucidation of the impact of oxidative and nitrosative stresses on mammalian reproductive biology is one of the key scientific domains that are compelling the scientific community to further investigate the underlying mechanistic basis and come up with reasonable solutions.

Meanwhile, there is an unfortunate lack of therapeutic schemes aimed at either preserving or improving the quality and in vivo and in vitro development of gametes and embryos. However, recent studies have shown that pharmacological interventions might help improve gamete and embryo development. Therefore, encouraging evidence from these studies provides the prospect of exploiting additional non-invasive and robust therapeutic interventions in this field of high scientific significance.

Cryopreservation has facilitated roles of biological research advancement through extending periods of cell storage. Although, gamete cryopreservation has also remained at the center of attention for many researchers and clinicians working in the field of reproductive biology, unfortunately, evidence at hand shows that the survival and development competence of gametes and embryos and their subsequent developmental and fertilizing capacity are significantly decreased following cryopreservation. However, the search for developing a mutually beneficial procedure where both these technologies could provide the optimal conditions for improved survival and development rates, and clinical outcomes, is crucial to forming efficient remedial strategies. Therefore, the quest for improvements in gamete cryopreservation protocols remains in the scope of researchers and clinicians.

In addition, focused research aimed at the elucidation of key molecular mechanisms relevant to oogenesis and spermatogenesis both in young and aging models has also been at the center of attention in recent years, but so far, our understanding of this fascinating area of research has also been limited.

This Special Issue of Cells aims to collate high-quality original research and review articles with a focus on any facet of reproductive biology and embryology, with particular interest in the following:

  • Reproductive aging
  • Embryology
  • Oxidative stress
  • Nitrosative stress
  • Antioxidants
  • Ovary and testes
  • Follicle development
  • Oocyte/sperm cryopreservation
  • ART outcomes
  • Fertilization
  • IVF and embryo transfer
  • Omics
  • Implantation, placenta, uterus
  • Development and nutrigenomics
  • Use of novel/new antioxidants in reproductive biology
  • Placenta
  • Pregnancy.

Dr. Izhar Hyder Qazi
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Cells is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2700 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Published Papers (6 papers)

Download All Papers
Order results
Result details
Show export options expand_more Show export options expand_less
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:

Research

Jump to: Review

19 pages, 7768 KiB  
Article
Chromatin Morphology in Human Germinal Vesicle Oocytes and Their Competence to Mature in Stimulated Cycles
by Daniil Salimov, Tatiana Lisovskaya, Junko Otsuki, Alexandre Gzgzyan, Irina Bogolyubova and Dmitry Bogolyubov
Cells 2023, 12(15), 1976; https://doi.org/10.3390/cells12151976 - 31 Jul 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1360
Abstract
The search for simple morphological predictors of oocyte quality is an important task for assisted reproduction technologies (ARTs). One such predictor may be the morphology of the oocyte nucleus, called the germinal vesicle (GV), including the level of chromatin aggregation around the atypical [...] Read more.
The search for simple morphological predictors of oocyte quality is an important task for assisted reproduction technologies (ARTs). One such predictor may be the morphology of the oocyte nucleus, called the germinal vesicle (GV), including the level of chromatin aggregation around the atypical nucleolus (ANu)—a peculiar nuclear organelle, formerly referred to as the nucleolus-like body. A prospective cohort study allowed distinguishing three classes of GV oocytes among 135 oocytes retrieved from 64 patients: with a non-surrounded ANu and rare chromatin blocks in the nucleoplasm (Class A), with a complete peri-ANu heterochromatic rim assembling all chromatin (Class C), and intermediate variants (Class B). Comparison of the chromatin state and the ability of oocytes to complete meiosis allowed us to conclude that Class B and C oocytes are more capable of resuming meiosis in vitro and completing the first meiotic division, while Class A oocytes can resume maturation but often stop their development either at metaphase I (MI arrest) or before the onset of GV breakdown (GVBD arrest). In addition, oocytes with a low chromatin condensation demonstrated a high level of aneuploidy during the resumption of meiosis. Considering that the degree of chromatin condensation/compaction can be determined in vivo under a light microscope, this characteristic of the GV can be considered a promising criterion for selecting the best-quality GV oocytes in IVM rescue programs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Mammalian Reproductive Biology—a Focus on Development of Gametes and Embryos)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 1815 KiB  
Communication
Repeated Superovulation Accelerates Primordial Follicle Activation and Atresia
by Qian Wang, Shu-Xian Zhao, Jian-Ning He, Hua Zhao, Bao-Xia Gu, Juan-Ke Xie, Yi-Jun Zhao, Cui-Lian Zhang and Zhao-Jia Ge
Cells 2023, 12(1), 92; https://doi.org/10.3390/cells12010092 - 26 Dec 2022
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2503
Abstract
For humans, ARTs (assisted reproductive technologies) have become the most effective method to treat subfertility/infertility in clinic. To obtain enough oocytes during ART, ovarian stimulation is performed by exogenous hormones, and some patients undergo several ovarian stimulation cycles. Although some adverse effects of [...] Read more.
For humans, ARTs (assisted reproductive technologies) have become the most effective method to treat subfertility/infertility in clinic. To obtain enough oocytes during ART, ovarian stimulation is performed by exogenous hormones, and some patients undergo several ovarian stimulation cycles. Although some adverse effects of ARTs on women and offspring are reported, few studies are focused on the effects of multiple superovulation on ovarian reserve. In the present study, we found that repeated superovulation significantly reduced primordial follicle number and the serum AMH. Compared to the decreased antral follicle number, the expression of genes related to primordial follicle activation, such as Foxo3, Akt, and Rptor, and the atretic follicle number in ovaries were increased by superovulation times. We further found that repeated superovulation reduced the plasma level of FSH, LH, and estradiol, and increased the expression of genes related to apoptosis (Bax, Casp3 (caspase-3), Casp8, and Casp9) in granulosa cells, providing evidence that repeated superovulation disrupted the balance between survival and death in granulosa cells. In summary, our results suggest that repeated superovulation has adverse effects on folliculogenesis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Mammalian Reproductive Biology—a Focus on Development of Gametes and Embryos)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 329 KiB  
Article
The Supplementation of Bee Bread Methanolic Extract to Egg Yolk or Soybean Lecithin Extenders Can Improve the Quality of Cryopreserved Ram Semen
by Asmaa E. Sharaf, Wael A. Khalil, Ezz I. Khalifa, Mohamed A. Nassan, Ayman A. Swelum and Mostafa A. El-Harairy
Cells 2022, 11(21), 3403; https://doi.org/10.3390/cells11213403 - 27 Oct 2022
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2040
Abstract
Bee bread has numerous nutritional benefits and bioactive compounds. Other bee byproducts have been used as extender additives to improve semen cryopreservation. Here, we examined the effects of supplementing egg yolk extender (EYE) or soybean lecithin extender (SBLE) with bee bread extract (BBE) [...] Read more.
Bee bread has numerous nutritional benefits and bioactive compounds. Other bee byproducts have been used as extender additives to improve semen cryopreservation. Here, we examined the effects of supplementing egg yolk extender (EYE) or soybean lecithin extender (SBLE) with bee bread extract (BBE) on the quality of cryopreserved ram semen. Semen was collected from five adult Rahmani rams once a week for 7 weeks. EYE and SBLE were supplemented with BBE. Antioxidant capacity and total phenolic compound, total flavonoid compound, and total soluble carbohydrate levels of BBE were measured. Sperm characteristics, including progressive motility, viability, abnormalities, membrane integrity, and acrosome integrity, were analyzed after equilibration, thawing, and thawing followed by a 2-h incubation. The total antioxidant capacity and malondialdehyde, hydrogen peroxide, aspartate transaminase, alanine transaminase, alkaline phosphatase, and total acid phosphatase levels in extenders were determined after thawing. Sperm apoptosis was analyzed using annexin V assays. SBLE was more effective than EYE for cryopreserving ram semen. Extender supplementation with BBE improved ram semen quality during freezing in a concentration-dependent pattern. Motility, vitality, and membrane integrity were particularly enhanced in BBE-treated semen. Additionally, BBE promoted antioxidant and enzymatic activities and reduced apoptosis in semen. Thus, extender supplementation with BBE improved sperm cryopreservation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Mammalian Reproductive Biology—a Focus on Development of Gametes and Embryos)

Review

Jump to: Research

26 pages, 1146 KiB  
Review
Current Advances in Cellular Approaches for Pathophysiology and Treatment of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
by Yi-Ru Tsai, Yen-Nung Liao and Hong-Yo Kang
Cells 2023, 12(17), 2189; https://doi.org/10.3390/cells12172189 - 31 Aug 2023
Viewed by 2652
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent gynecological and endocrine disorder that results in irregular menstruation, incomplete follicular development, disrupted ovulation, and reduced fertility rates among affected women of reproductive age. While these symptoms can be managed through appropriate medication and lifestyle interventions, [...] Read more.
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent gynecological and endocrine disorder that results in irregular menstruation, incomplete follicular development, disrupted ovulation, and reduced fertility rates among affected women of reproductive age. While these symptoms can be managed through appropriate medication and lifestyle interventions, both etiology and treatment options remain limited. Here we provide a comprehensive overview of the latest advancements in cellular approaches utilized for investigating the pathophysiology of PCOS through in vitro cell models, to avoid the confounding systemic effects such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) therapy. The primary objective is to enhance the understanding of abnormalities in PCOS-associated folliculogenesis, particularly focusing on the aberrant roles of granulosa cells and other relevant cell types. Furthermore, this article encompasses analyses of the mechanisms and signaling pathways, microRNA expression and target genes altered in PCOS, and explores the pharmacological approaches considered as potential treatments. By summarizing the aforementioned key findings, this article not only allows us to appreciate the value of using in vitro cell models, but also provides guidance for selecting suitable research models to facilitate the identification of potential treatments and understand the pathophysiology of PCOS at the cellular level. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Mammalian Reproductive Biology—a Focus on Development of Gametes and Embryos)
►▼ Show Figures

Graphical abstract

14 pages, 1921 KiB  
Review
Mechanisms of Cadmium-Induced Testicular Injury: A Risk to Male Fertility
by Waseem Ali, Yonggang Ma, Jiaqiao Zhu, Hui Zou and Zongping Liu
Cells 2022, 11(22), 3601; https://doi.org/10.3390/cells11223601 - 14 Nov 2022
Cited by 43 | Viewed by 3044
Abstract
Cadmium is a heavy toxic metal with unknown biological functions in the human body. Over time, cadmium accretion in the different visceral organs (liver, lungs, kidney, and testis) is said to impair the function of these organs, which is associated with a relatively [...] Read more.
Cadmium is a heavy toxic metal with unknown biological functions in the human body. Over time, cadmium accretion in the different visceral organs (liver, lungs, kidney, and testis) is said to impair the function of these organs, which is associated with a relatively long biological half-life and a very low rate of excretion. Recently studies have revealed that the testes are highly sensitive to cadmium. In this review, we discussed the adverse effect of cadmium on the development and biological functions of the testis. The Sertoli cells (SCs), seminiferous tubules, and Blood Testis Barrier are severely structurally damaged by cadmium, which results in sperm loss. The development and function of Leydig cells are hindered by cadmium, which also induces Leydig cell tumors. The testis’s vascular system is severely disturbed by cadmium. Cadmium also perturbs the function of somatic cells and germ cells through epigenetic regulation, giving rise to infertile or sub-fertile males. In addition, we also summarized the other findings related to cadmium-induced oxidative toxicity, apoptotic toxicity, and autophagic toxicity, along with their possible mechanisms in the testicular tissue of different animal species. Consequently, cadmium represents a high-risk factor for male fertility. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Mammalian Reproductive Biology—a Focus on Development of Gametes and Embryos)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 2381 KiB  
Review
Oxidative Stress and Oocyte Cryopreservation: Recent Advances in Mitigation Strategies Involving Antioxidants
by Beijia Cao, Jianpeng Qin, Bo Pan, Izhar Hyder Qazi, Jiangfeng Ye, Yi Fang and Guangbin Zhou
Cells 2022, 11(22), 3573; https://doi.org/10.3390/cells11223573 - 11 Nov 2022
Cited by 15 | Viewed by 3136
Abstract
Oocyte cryopreservation is widely used in assisted-reproductive technology and animal production. However, cryopreservation not only induces a massive accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in oocytes, but also leads to oxidative-stress-inflicted damage to mitochondria and the endoplasmic reticulum. These stresses lead to damage [...] Read more.
Oocyte cryopreservation is widely used in assisted-reproductive technology and animal production. However, cryopreservation not only induces a massive accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in oocytes, but also leads to oxidative-stress-inflicted damage to mitochondria and the endoplasmic reticulum. These stresses lead to damage to the spindle, DNA, proteins, and lipids, ultimately reducing the developmental potential of oocytes both in vitro and in vivo. Although oocytes can mitigate oxidative stress via intrinsic antioxidant systems, the formation of ribonucleoprotein granules, mitophagy, and the cryopreservation-inflicted oxidative damage cannot be completely eliminated. Therefore, exogenous antioxidants such as melatonin and resveratrol are widely used in oocyte cryopreservation to reduce oxidative damage through direct or indirect scavenging of ROS. In this review, we discuss analysis of various oxidative stresses induced by oocyte cryopreservation, the impact of antioxidants against oxidative damage, and their underlying mechanisms. We hope that this literature review can provide a reference for improving the efficiency of oocyte cryopreservation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Mammalian Reproductive Biology—a Focus on Development of Gametes and Embryos)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

Show export options expand_more Show export options expand_less
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:
 
Displaying articles 1-6
Back to TopTop