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Keywords = oocyte recovery

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12 pages, 2184 KiB  
Article
Microtubule Integrity Is Associated with Mitochondrial Function and Quality of Murine Preimplantation Embryos
by Yu-Ha Shim, Min-Jeong Cho, Min-Hee Kang, Yu-Jin Kim, Seung-A Oh, Ji-Soo Ryu, Byeong-Jun Mun, Jin-Young An and Jae-Ho Lee
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(7), 3268; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26073268 - 1 Apr 2025
Viewed by 573
Abstract
Poor embryo quality is a major cause of poor clinical outcomes in assisted reproductive medicine, and there are no currently available interventions that can improve embryo quality. Mitochondria dysfunction is linked to low-quality female gametes and zygotes. Previously, microtubule integrity was also associated [...] Read more.
Poor embryo quality is a major cause of poor clinical outcomes in assisted reproductive medicine, and there are no currently available interventions that can improve embryo quality. Mitochondria dysfunction is linked to low-quality female gametes and zygotes. Previously, microtubule integrity was also associated with mitochondrial function in oocytes. In the present study, we investigated the effects of the microtubule stabilizers (MTS) Taxol and Epothilone D (EpD) and the microtubule disturber (MTD) vinorelbine on mouse preimplantation embryo quality and pregnancy outcome compared with non-treatment controls. We prepared young BDF1 mice (7~9 weeks old) and cultured preimplantation embryos with MTS or MTD. Mitochondrial functional activity and embryo development ratios including pregnancy ratios were then assessed. MTS-treated embryos showed significantly increased mitochondrial membrane potentials and motility. Blastocyst formation was significantly higher in MTS-treated embryos than in MTD-treated embryos. Especially, MTS-treated embryos exhibited higher hatched blastocyte formation than untreated embryos. The number of offspring was significantly higher in surrogate mice transplanted with MTS-treated embryos. These findings demonstrated that the treatment of mouse preimplantation embryos with Taxol or EpD increased embryo development competence, which was associated with increased mitochondrial functional activity. Consistently, delivery ratios were significantly higher after transplantation with MTS-treated embryos than after transplantation with untreated embryos. These findings suggest that MTS could be used to supplement in vitro culture media to promote the recovery of poor-quality embryos. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Latest Advances in Reproduction Biology)
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14 pages, 1306 KiB  
Article
The Influence of Aspiration Pressure, Follicle Flushing Method and Needle Rotation During Single-Operator OPU Technique on Oocyte Recovery and Embryo Production in the Mare
by Juan Cuervo-Arango, Laura Sala-Ayala, Adrián Márquez-Moya and Rebeca Martínez-Boví
Animals 2025, 15(6), 832; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15060832 - 14 Mar 2025
Viewed by 3902
Abstract
The objective of this study was to determine the effect of two aspiration pressures (75 vs. 150 mmHg), the follicle flushing method (injection pump controlled by a foot pedal vs. a plastic syringe) and the twisting of the OPU needle on oocyte recovery [...] Read more.
The objective of this study was to determine the effect of two aspiration pressures (75 vs. 150 mmHg), the follicle flushing method (injection pump controlled by a foot pedal vs. a plastic syringe) and the twisting of the OPU needle on oocyte recovery and in vitro embryo production. OPU data from a total of 104 warmblood sport mares belonging to a commercial OPU-ICSI program were collected as part of a prospective study split into three experiments. Each mare was used only once for OPU. In Experiment 1, the mares’ follicles were aspirated using either a high aspiration pressure (flow rate of 1.33 mL/s; n = 18) or low aspiration pressure (0.75 mL/s; n = 18); in Experiment 2, follicles were flushed using either a manual method (plastic syringe, n = 18) or an automatic method (injection pump controlled by a foot pedal, n = 18); and in Experiment 3, the follicles were aspirated by scraping the follicle wall with needle rotation (needle twisting, n = 16) or without needle rotation (control, n = 16). In all the experiments, the same OPU operator and technician searching oocytes were used, and the allocation of each mare to the different treatment groups was randomized. The overall mean oocyte recovery rate of the study was 54.2 ± 17.1%, and the mean number of embryos per OPU-ICSI session was 1.9 ± 1.6. The oocyte recovery rate was not influenced by any of the parameters investigated (p > 0.05). However, high aspiration pressure (150 mmHg) tended to yield oocytes with lower maturation (51.6%; p = 0.09) and blastocyst rates (20.6%; p = 0.08) following IVM and ICSI, respectively, compared with the low aspiration group (64.4% MII rate and 31.4% blastocyst rate). In conclusion, increasing aspiration pressure does not increase oocyte recovery. Furthermore, when a single operator performs the OPU (holding the ovary and handling the needle simultaneously), needle rotation to scrape the follicle wall does not improve oocyte recovery. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Mare Reproduction)
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22 pages, 6636 KiB  
Article
Semen Quality, Testicular Cell Apoptosis, and Transcriptome Analysis Following Mild Scrotal Heat Stress in Wugu–Hu Crossbred and Hu Rams
by Shikun Chen, Mingxu Jiang, Yanyun Wang, Qingjie Pan, Henry Annandale, Peter Charles Irons and Huansheng Dong
Animals 2025, 15(5), 724; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15050724 - 3 Mar 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1290
Abstract
Hu and Wugu × Hu rams underwent scrotal insulation to simulate mild heat stress, resulting in a 3.0 ± 0.1 °C increase in scrotal surface temperature. Semen samples were collected every five days from day 11 to 56, and testis samples immediately after [...] Read more.
Hu and Wugu × Hu rams underwent scrotal insulation to simulate mild heat stress, resulting in a 3.0 ± 0.1 °C increase in scrotal surface temperature. Semen samples were collected every five days from day 11 to 56, and testis samples immediately after insulation. Both breeds experienced similar semen quality reductions and recovery trends, including reduced motility, concentration and the percentage of morphologically normal, but on days 41 and 46, Wugu–Hu rams exhibited significantly lower sperm motility than Hu rams (p < 0.05). Wugu–Hu rams demonstrate more transcriptomic changes. Further GO analysis revealed enrichment in spermatogenesis-related processes, while KEGG analysis identified Oocyte meiosis and cell cycle pathways, with a downregulation of key genes (CDK1, CDK2, CDC20, and PLK1) indicating impaired meiosis in Wugu–Hu rams. In contrast, Hu rams showed minimal transcriptional changes, contrary to the transcriptomic results. The significantly increased apoptosis rate of Wugu–Hu sheep testicular cells (p < 0.05) suggests compensatory or post-transcriptional mechanisms mitigating functional impacts caused by transcriptomic changes. The conclusion is that mild scrotal heat stress affects sperm quality and testicular gene expression. Wugu–Hu rams demonstrate greater transcriptomic sensitivity, but this does not show significant differences in semen quality recovery due to the compensatory mechanism of cell apoptosis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Ovarian and Testicular Physiology)
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18 pages, 7425 KiB  
Article
Exploration of Conditions for the Scaled Application of Laparoscopic Ovum Pick-Up in Sheep and Comparison of Follicular Development Differences Among Breeds
by Dongxu Li, Xiangli Wu, Ying Chen, Yangsheng Wu, Gulimire Abudureyimu, Hongyang Liang, Xiuling Ma, Wei Zhang, Liqin Wang and Jiapeng Lin
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(5), 1989; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26051989 - 25 Feb 2025
Viewed by 722
Abstract
In small ruminants, laparotomy for ovarian exploration followed by oocyte collection has been progressively replaced by laparoscopic puncture of follicles, which has become an important method for obtaining oocytes in vivo. However, the superovulation protocols and collection frequency used for laparoscopic ovum pick-up [...] Read more.
In small ruminants, laparotomy for ovarian exploration followed by oocyte collection has been progressively replaced by laparoscopic puncture of follicles, which has become an important method for obtaining oocytes in vivo. However, the superovulation protocols and collection frequency used for laparoscopic ovum pick-up (LOPU) in sheep still require further investigation. This study explored the factors influencing LOPU efficiency in sheep, including Controlled Internal Drug Release (CIDR) for estrus synchronization, FSH source and dose, and recovery intervals. The optimal superovulation protocol (using the CIDR device, a total of 16 mg of long-acting recombinant ovine FSH (LR-FSH) administered in two doses, and a one-month interval between LOPU sessions) was subsequently identified. Ovarian follicles were collected via LOPU from Hu sheep and Altay sheep for transcriptomic and metabolomic sequencing to explore interbreed differences in follicular development. The results indicated that LOPU efficiency was significantly higher in the CIDR group (p < 0.05) and with a 30-day recovery interval (p < 0.05). No significant differences in LOPU efficiency were observed between FSH sources or hormone doses. Furthermore, Hu sheep exhibited significantly higher LOPU efficiency and more antral follicles than Altay sheep. Transcriptomic analysis of follicular contents and metabolomic profiling of follicular fluid revealed that differentially expressed genes and metabolites were primarily enriched in pathways related to steroidogenesis, amino acid metabolism, and fatty acid metabolism. This study provides an optimized treatment protocol to enhance LOPU efficiency and integrates multi-omics analyses to elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying follicular development differences among various breeds. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Research on Embryo Developmental Potential)
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25 pages, 3023 KiB  
Article
A Step Toward Understanding Direct Impacts of a Higher Estrus-Associated Temperature (HEAT): Transcript Level Changes in Cumulus–Oocyte Complexes Directly Exposed to Acute Elevated Temperature
by Jessica L. Klabnik, Jonathan E. Beever, Rebecca R. Payton, Kurt H. Lamour, F. Neal Schrick and J. Lannett Edwards
Animals 2025, 15(4), 517; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15040517 - 12 Feb 2025
Viewed by 1229
Abstract
Elevated body temperature (HEAT) in sexually receptive females is a normal part of the periovulatory microenvironment. The objective was to identify direct (first 6 h) and delayed (4 h or 18 h of recovery) effects at 41 °C exposure during in vitro maturation [...] Read more.
Elevated body temperature (HEAT) in sexually receptive females is a normal part of the periovulatory microenvironment. The objective was to identify direct (first 6 h) and delayed (4 h or 18 h of recovery) effects at 41 °C exposure during in vitro maturation (IVM) on transcripts involved in steroidogenesis, oocyte maturation, or previously impacted by elevated temperature using targeted RNA-sequencing. Most transcripts (72.3%) were impacted in the first 2 to 4 hIVM. Twelve of the fifteen transcripts first impacted at 4 hIVM had a higher abundance and three had a lower abundance. Direct exposure to 41 °C impacted the transcripts related to progesterone production and signaling, germinal vesicle breakdown, oocyte meiotic progression, transcriptional activity and/or alternative splicing, cell cycle, cumulus expansion, and/or ovulation. Three transcripts demonstrated a delayed impact; changes were not seen until the COCs recovered for 4 h. The use of multidimensional scaling plots to ‘visualize’ samples highlights that oocytes exposed to an acute elevation in temperature are more advanced at the molecular level during the initial stages of maturation. Described efforts represent important steps towards providing a novel insight into the dynamic physiology of the COC in the estrual female bovid, during HEAT and after body temperature returns to baseline. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Animal Reproduction)
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12 pages, 456 KiB  
Article
Coenzyme Q10 Supplementation Effects on In Vitro Oocyte Maturation, Lipid Peroxidation, and Embryonic Development in Prepubertal and Aging Thai–Holstein Cows
by Ruthaiporn Ratchamak, Supakorn Authaida, Thirawat Koedkanmark, Wuttigrai Boonkum and Vibuntita Chankitisakul
Animals 2025, 15(1), 18; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15010018 - 25 Dec 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1748
Abstract
This study investigated the effects of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) supplementation on in vitro oocyte maturation, lipid peroxidation, and embryonic development in prepubertal and aging Thai–Holstein cows. First, we used slaughterhouse-derived oocytes to confirm that CoQ10 (50 μM) significantly enhanced cleavage (53.33% vs. 37.50%) [...] Read more.
This study investigated the effects of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) supplementation on in vitro oocyte maturation, lipid peroxidation, and embryonic development in prepubertal and aging Thai–Holstein cows. First, we used slaughterhouse-derived oocytes to confirm that CoQ10 (50 μM) significantly enhanced cleavage (53.33% vs. 37.50%) and blastocyst formation rates (46.81% vs. 27.50%). Thereafter, oocytes were collected from four prepubertal and four aging cows via ovum pick-up and matured in vitro with or without CoQ10 supplementation. The follicular development and oocyte quality were assessed. Aging cows exhibited significantly more follicles (24.00 vs. 16.67) and greater oocyte recovery (16.67 vs. 11.67) than prepubertal cows. Additionally, CoQ10 supplementation significantly reduced malondialdehyde levels in aging cows (1.28 vs. 0.61 nmol/mL), indicating reduced lipid peroxidation. Finally, CoQ10 significantly improved cleavage rates in both age groups (prepubertal: 22.50 to 32.50%; aging: 41.71 to 65.00%) and blastocyst formation rates in aging cows (prepubertal: 17.50 to 20.00%; aging: 31.44 to 53.72%). These results suggest that CoQ10 supplementation enhances oocyte maturation and embryonic development, particularly in aging cows, likely by mitigating oxidative stress and supporting mitochondrial function. Therefore, CoQ10 may be a valuable supplement in assisted reproductive technologies for improving reproductive efficiency in cattle breeding programs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Animal Reproduction)
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9 pages, 620 KiB  
Brief Report
Utilization of Assisted Reproductive Technologies in Breeding Auliekol Cattle: A Comparative Study
by Altyn Kulpiisova, Kairly Yessengaliyev, Gulsara Kassimova, Ainat Kozhakhmetova, Bakytkanym Kadraliyeva, Abeldinov Rustem, Alma Temirzhanova, Nadezhda Burambayeva, Salbak Chylbak-ool, Elena Pakhomova, Nurzhan Abekeshev, Gulnara Baikadamova, Zhomart Kemeshev, Alexandra Tegza, Arman Issimov and Peter White
Life 2024, 14(9), 1167; https://doi.org/10.3390/life14091167 - 15 Sep 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1863
Abstract
This study evaluates the utilization of in vitro embryo production (IVEP) technology for the conservation and breeding of the Auliekol cattle breed, a primary beef breed in Kazakhstan facing population decline due to the cessation of breeding programs and the incursion of transboundary [...] Read more.
This study evaluates the utilization of in vitro embryo production (IVEP) technology for the conservation and breeding of the Auliekol cattle breed, a primary beef breed in Kazakhstan facing population decline due to the cessation of breeding programs and the incursion of transboundary diseases. We assessed the effect of consecutive ovum pick-up (OPU) procedures on oocyte yield and embryo production in Auliekol and Aberdeen Angus cows. A total of 2232 and 3659 oocytes were aspirated from Auliekol and Aberdeen Angus donors, respectively, with significantly higher yields and embryo production observed in Aberdeen Angus cows. The application of a meiotic block using Butyrolactone I (BLI) and subsequent in vitro fertilization (IVF) protocols was employed, with embryo development monitored up to the morula/blastocyst stage. Results indicated that Auliekol cows exhibited lower oocyte recovery, cleavage, and blastocyst rates compared to Aberdeen Angus cows, likely due to genetic characteristics. Despite the challenges, IVEP presents a valuable tool for the preservation and future propagation of the Auliekol breed, highlighting the need for further research to enhance reproductive outcomes and conservation strategies. Full article
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12 pages, 1774 KiB  
Article
Study on the Technology of Laparoscopic Ovum Pick-Up and In Vitro Embryo Production in Chongming Goats
by Xiangli Wu, Dongxu Li, Ying Chen, Yangsheng Wu, Gulimire Abudureyimu, Wei Zhang, Kelu Deng, Zhen Huang, Jiapeng Lin and Liqin Wang
Biology 2024, 13(9), 699; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13090699 - 6 Sep 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1895
Abstract
The application of laparoscopic ovum pick-up (LOPU) and in vitro production of embryos (IVEP) technologies has opened up a new path for purebred breeding and breed improvement in goats. However, due to the complexity of the procedures and multiple influencing factors, these technologies [...] Read more.
The application of laparoscopic ovum pick-up (LOPU) and in vitro production of embryos (IVEP) technologies has opened up a new path for purebred breeding and breed improvement in goats. However, due to the complexity of the procedures and multiple influencing factors, these technologies have not been widely adopted in goat production. This study explores factors affecting the efficiency of LOPU in goats by comparing the use of controlled internal drug release (CIDR) for estrus synchronization, conventional FSH versus long-acting recombinant ovine FSH (R-FSH) for superovulation, and the timing of LOPU at 48 h, 60 h, and 72 h of follicular development. The metrics evaluated included the recovery rate of cumulus–oocyte complexes (COCs), the average number of ovarian follicles, the average number of COCs, and the average number of available COCs. The results demonstrated that the efficiency of LOPU was significantly higher with two doses of R-FSH compared to the conventional FSH superovulation protocol and the control group (p < 0.05), with two doses of R-FSH providing a higher LOPU efficiency than one dose (p < 0.05). Using CIDR for estrus synchronization showed no significant difference in LOPU efficiency compared to the non-CIDR group. Similarly, the efficiency of LOPU showed no significant difference between the hormone treatments at 48 h, 60 h, and 72 h. By exploring and optimizing the factors influencing LOPU, we ultimately established a LOPU technology system for goats that meets the production needs of small ruminants. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Reproductive Management of Goats and Sheep)
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16 pages, 2419 KiB  
Article
Aquaporin-3a Dysfunction Impairs Osmoadaptation in Post-Activated Marine Fish Spermatozoa
by François Chauvigné, Júlia Castro-Arnau, Noelia López-Fortún, Alejandro Sánchez-Chardi, Michael Rützler, Giuseppe Calamita, Roderick Nigel Finn and Joan Cerdà
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(17), 9604; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25179604 - 4 Sep 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1576
Abstract
Spermatozoon volume regulation is an essential determinant of male fertility competence in mammals and oviparous fishes. In mammals, aquaporin water channels (AQP3, -7 and -8) have been suggested to play a role in spermatozoon cell volume regulatory responses in the hypotonic female oviduct. [...] Read more.
Spermatozoon volume regulation is an essential determinant of male fertility competence in mammals and oviparous fishes. In mammals, aquaporin water channels (AQP3, -7 and -8) have been suggested to play a role in spermatozoon cell volume regulatory responses in the hypotonic female oviduct. In contrast, the ejaculated spermatozoa of marine teleosts, such as the gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata), experience a high hypertonic shock in seawater, initially resulting in an Aqp1aa-mediated water efflux, cell shrinkage and the activation of motility. Further regulatory recovery of cell volume in post-activated spermatozoa is mediated by Aqp4a in cooperation with the Trpv4 Ca2+ channel and other ion channels and transporters. Using a paralog-specific antibody, here, we show that seabream spermatozoa also express the aquaglyceroporin AQP3 ortholog Aqp3a, which is highly accumulated in the mid posterior region of the spermatozoon flagella, in a similar pattern to that described in mouse and human sperm. To investigate the role of Aqp3a in seabream sperm motility, we used a recently developed AQP3 antagonist (DFP00173), as well as the seabream Aqp3a-specific antibody (α-SaAqp3a), both of which specifically inhibit Aqp3a-mediated water conductance when the channel was heterologously expressed in Xenopus laevis oocytes. Inhibition with either DFP00173 or α-SaAqp3a did not affect sperm motility activation but did impair the spermatozoon motion kinetics at 30 s post activation in a dose-dependent manner. Interestingly, in close resemblance to the phenotypes of AQP3-deficient murine sperm, electron microscopy image analysis revealed that both Aqp3a inhibitors induce abnormal sperm tail morphologies, including swelling and angulation of the tail, with complete coiling of the flagella in some cases. These findings suggest a conserved role of Aqp3a as an osmosensor that regulates cell volume in fish spermatozoa under a high hypertonic stress, thereby controlling the efflux of water and/or solutes in the post-activated spermatozoon. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Biology)
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15 pages, 3420 KiB  
Article
Gonadal Cycle of Corbicula largillierti (Bivalvia: Cyrenidae) in a Pampean Streams, Argentina
by Cristina Damborenea, Yeny Labaut, Pablo Penchaszadeh, Gonzalo A. Collado and Gustavo Darrigran
Diversity 2024, 16(6), 357; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16060357 - 20 Jun 2024
Viewed by 1659
Abstract
The reproductive cycle of non-native species is indicative of their capacity for dispersal, invasion, and competition, and the alteration in biodiversity. Corbicula spp. are successful invaders of aquatic ecosystems. We studied the reproductive cycle of Corbicula largillierti from a Pampean stream, Argentina, at [...] Read more.
The reproductive cycle of non-native species is indicative of their capacity for dispersal, invasion, and competition, and the alteration in biodiversity. Corbicula spp. are successful invaders of aquatic ecosystems. We studied the reproductive cycle of Corbicula largillierti from a Pampean stream, Argentina, at its southern distribution in South America. Specimens were collected monthly from January 2003 to April 2005 and processed using traditional histological techniques. Three gonadal stages (active gametogenesis, mature, and spawned) were recognized. In the studied population, most individuals were hermaphroditic with a dominant female gonadal portion. The three gonadal stages were observed during the whole sampling period with rapid gonadal recovery; no resting period was observed. Five oocyte spawning events were recognized, occurring in autumn and spring. Expanding the knowledge of reproductive features of the Corbicula largillierti allows the understanding of current distributions. The results highlight the difficulty of identifying patterns of gamete release and spawning behavior in this invasive species, as it is recorded for other Corbicula spp. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Animal Diversity)
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12 pages, 784 KiB  
Article
Effects of Dietary Inclusion of a Proprietary Combination of Quillaja saponaria and Yucca schidigera on Intestinal Permeability and Immune Response in Broiler Chickens during a Coccidia Challenge
by Kari Saddoris-Clemons, Saheed Osho, Miriam Garcia and Brooke Humphrey
Animals 2024, 14(12), 1737; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14121737 - 8 Jun 2024
Viewed by 1597
Abstract
This study assessed the impact of Magni-Phi Ultra (MPU) inclusion on intestinal integrity and immunity in broiler chickens challenged with coccidia during peak and recovery phases. A total of 128 male Ross 708 broiler chicks were randomly allotted to one of four treatment [...] Read more.
This study assessed the impact of Magni-Phi Ultra (MPU) inclusion on intestinal integrity and immunity in broiler chickens challenged with coccidia during peak and recovery phases. A total of 128 male Ross 708 broiler chicks were randomly allotted to one of four treatment groups (four chicks/cage). Treatments included an uninfected control (UUC); a coccidial challenge (CC) infected control (IUC); a CC fed salinomycin at 66 ppm (SAL); and a CC fed Magni-Phi Ultra at 0.11 g/kg of diet (MPU). At 16 days post-hatch, all birds in the CC groups were orally gavaged with a 3× dose of a live coccidia vaccine. At 5 dpi, the birds fed MPU and SAL showed decreased plasma FITC-d, oocyte shedding, and lesion scores and higher BWG compared to the IUC birds (p < 0.05). Jejunum IL-17, IL-10, and IFN-ϒ mRNA expression was higher in the IUC compared to the UUC (p < 0.05) group at 5 dpi. At 12 dpi, the birds fed MPU or SAL had lower plasma FITC-d and jejunum IFN-ϒ and IL-10 mRNA expression compared to the IUC birds (p < 0.05). This study indicates that MPU supports intestinal integrity and mucosal immune responses during the peak and recovery phases of infection, which may lead to improved health and performance. Full article
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15 pages, 1503 KiB  
Article
Diets, Condition, and Reproductive Fitness of Slimy Sculpin (Uranidea cognata) after Catastrophic Flooding in Trout Streams in Southeastern Minnesota, USA
by Neal D. Mundahl
Fishes 2024, 9(6), 197; https://doi.org/10.3390/fishes9060197 - 25 May 2024
Viewed by 992
Abstract
Slimy sculpin (Uranidea cognata) inhabit coldwater streams in southeastern Minnesota, USA, many of which were subjected to probable 2000-year flood events in August 2007. Floods scoured streambeds, created new stream channels, and greatly reduced benthic invertebrate communities that serve as the [...] Read more.
Slimy sculpin (Uranidea cognata) inhabit coldwater streams in southeastern Minnesota, USA, many of which were subjected to probable 2000-year flood events in August 2007. Floods scoured streambeds, created new stream channels, and greatly reduced benthic invertebrate communities that serve as the primary food resource for sculpin. Diets and Fulton condition of sculpin in Gilmore Creek (with moderate flooding) and Garvin Brook (with very severe flooding) had been examined just prior to flooding and were re-examined 2 weeks after flooding to assess possible diet and condition changes. Diets, body condition, and reproductive fitness of sculpin were examined 7 months post-flood in these same two streams, plus nearby Trout Run (which also experienced very severe flooding). Sculpin condition declined slightly post-flood in Garvin Brook but improved in Gilmore Creek. Prior to spring spawning, the condition of Garvin Brook sculpin had improved, but Gilmore Creek fish condition had worsened. Sculpin diets were more diverse before and after flooding in Gilmore Creek than in Garvin Brook, although the diets of fish from both streams were dominated (>55%) by midge (Diptera: Chironomidae) larvae. Diets remained largely unchanged before versus after flooding in the more severely flooded Garvin Brook, but they changed in Gilmore Creek, becoming more midge-dominated. Prey number per sculpin stomach declined post-flood in Gilmore Creek but not in Garvin Brook, although the dry mass of prey/fish wet mass declined post-flood in both streams. Pre-spawn sculpin displayed no patterns in reproductive fitness (gonadosomatic index, hepatosomatic index, oocyte number) among the three streams that may have been related to flooding severity the previous summer. Sculpin diets and condition were not altered as expected by flooding, and food resource recovery apparently was rapid enough to prevent longer-term impacts on sculpin condition and reproductive fitness in the streams examined. Full article
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14 pages, 4855 KiB  
Article
Astaxanthin Added during Post-Warm Recovery Mitigated Oxidative Stress in Bovine Vitrified Oocytes and Improved Quality of Resulting Blastocysts
by Linda Dujíčková, Lucia Olexiková, Alexander V. Makarevich, Alexandra Rosenbaum Bartková, Lucie Němcová, Peter Chrenek and František Strejček
Antioxidants 2024, 13(5), 556; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox13050556 - 30 Apr 2024
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1955
Abstract
Various antioxidants are tested to improve the viability and development of cryopreserved oocytes, due to their known positive health effects. The aim of this study was to find whether astaxanthin (AX), a xanthophyll carotenoid, could mitigate deteriorations that occurred during the vitrification/warming process [...] Read more.
Various antioxidants are tested to improve the viability and development of cryopreserved oocytes, due to their known positive health effects. The aim of this study was to find whether astaxanthin (AX), a xanthophyll carotenoid, could mitigate deteriorations that occurred during the vitrification/warming process in bovine oocytes. Astaxanthin (2.5 µM) was added to the maturation medium during the post-warm recovery period of vitrified oocytes for 3 h. Afterward, the oocytes were fertilized in vitro using frozen bull semen and presumptive zygotes were cultured in the B2 Menezo medium in a co-culture with BRL-1 cells at 38.5 °C and 5% CO2 until the blastocyst stage. AX addition significantly reduced ROS formation, lipid peroxidation, and lysosomal activity, while increasing mitochondrial activity in vitrified oocytes. Although the effect of AX on embryo development was not observed, it stimulated cell proliferation in the blastocysts derived from vitrified oocytes and improved their quality by upregulation or downregulation of some genes related to apoptosis (BCL2, CAS9), oxidative stress (GPX4, CDX2), and development (GJB5) compared to the vitrified group without AX. Therefore, the antioxidant properties of astaxanthin even during short exposure to bovine vitrified/warmed oocytes resulted in improved blastocyst quality comparable to those from fresh oocytes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Health Outcomes of Antioxidants and Oxidative Stress)
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18 pages, 3970 KiB  
Article
Mito-TEMPO Improves the Meiosis Resumption and Mitochondrial Function of Vitrified Sheep Oocytes via the Recovery of Respiratory Chain Activity
by Xi Zhao, Airixiati Dilixiati, Luyao Zhang, Aikebaier Aihemaiti, Yukun Song, Guodong Zhao, Xiangwei Fu, Xuguang Wang and Abulizi Wusiman
Animals 2024, 14(1), 152; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14010152 - 2 Jan 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2213
Abstract
Vitrification is a crucial method for preserving animal germ cells. Considering the increased oxidative stress and organelle damage incurred, it is still necessary to make the process more efficient for oocytes. As the energy source of oocytes, mitochondria are the most abundant organelle [...] Read more.
Vitrification is a crucial method for preserving animal germ cells. Considering the increased oxidative stress and organelle damage incurred, it is still necessary to make the process more efficient for oocytes. As the energy source of oocytes, mitochondria are the most abundant organelle in oocytes and play a crucial role in their maturation. Here, we found that Mito-TEMPO, a mitochondria-targeted antioxidant, could efficaciously improve the oxidative stress injury of vitrified oocytes by recovering mitochondrial function via the mitochondrial respiratory chain. It was observed that Mito-TEMPO not only improves oocyte viability and meiosis but also maintains spindle structure. A subsequent study indicated that Mito-TEMPO effectively rescued mitochondrial dysfunction and attenuated vitrification-induced oxidative stress. Further investigation revealed that Mito-TEMPO regulates vitrified oocytes’ intracellular Ca2+ homeostasis and ATP content and provides strong antioxidant properties. Additionally, an analysis of the transcriptome at the single-cell level revealed that the respiratory chain mediates the beneficial effect of Mito-TEMPO on vitrified oocytes. Overall, our findings indicate that supplementing oocytes with Mito-TEMPO is an effective method to shield them from the damage caused by vitrification. In addition, the beneficial effects of Mito-TEMPO on vitrified sheep oocytes could inspire further investigations of the principles underlying oocyte cryobiology in other animals. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in In Vitro Oocyte Development in Domestic Animals)
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15 pages, 5123 KiB  
Article
Early-Life Exposure to the Mycotoxin Fumonisin B1 and Developmental Programming of the Ovary of the Offspring: The Possible Role of Autophagy in Fertility Recovery
by Awadh Alhelaisi, Abdulkarem Alrezaki, Saber Nahdi, Waleed Aldahmash, Saleh Alwasel and Abdel Halim Harrath
Toxics 2023, 11(12), 980; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics11120980 - 3 Dec 2023
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2395
Abstract
Mycotoxins are produced by more than one hundred fungi and produce secondary metabolites that contaminate various agricultural commodities, especially rice and corn. Their presence in the food chain is considered a serious problem worldwide. In recent years, a link between exposure to mycotoxins [...] Read more.
Mycotoxins are produced by more than one hundred fungi and produce secondary metabolites that contaminate various agricultural commodities, especially rice and corn. Their presence in the food chain is considered a serious problem worldwide. In recent years, a link between exposure to mycotoxins and impaired fertility has been suggested. Consequently, it has become vital to investigate the interactive effects of these mycotoxins on ovarian function. In this study, we investigated the intergenerational effects of the mycotoxin fumonisin B1 (FB1) on ovarian structure and function. Virgin Wistar albino female rats were separated into control and FB1 treatment groups and examined from day 6 of pregnancy until delivery (20 and 50 mg/kg b.w./day). The obtained female rats of the first (F1) and second generations (F2) were euthanized at 4 weeks of age, and ovary samples were collected. We found that the ovary weight index increased with the high dose of the treatment (50 mg/kg b.w./day) among both F1 and F2, in a manner similar to that observed in polycystic ovary syndrome. As expected, FB1 at a high dose (50 mg/kg b.w.) reduced the number of primordial follicles in F1 and F2, leading to an accelerated age-related decline in reproductive capacity. Moreover, it reduced the fertility rate among the F1 female rats by affecting follicle growth and development, as the number of secondary and tertiary follicles decreased. Histopathological changes were evidenced by the altered structures of most of the growing follicle oocytes, as revealed by a thinning irregular zona pellucida and pyknosis in granulosa cells. These findings are concomitant with steroidogenesis- and folliculogenesis-related gene expression, as evidenced by the decrease in CYP19 activity and estrogen receptor beta (ESR2) gene expression. Additionally, GDF-9 mRNA levels were significantly decreased, and IGF-1 mRNA levels were significantly increased. However, the results from the ovaries of the F2 treatment groups were different and unexpected. While there was no significant variation in CYP19 activity compared to the control, the ESR2 significantly increased, leading to stereological and histopathological changes similar to those of the control, except for some altered follicles. The hallmark histological feature was the appearance of vacuolar structures within the oocyte and between granulosa cell layers. Interestingly, the autophagic marker LC3 was significantly increased in the F2 offspring, whereas this protein was significantly decreased in the F1 offspring. Therefore, we suggest that the promotion of autophagy in the ovaries of the F2 offspring may be considered a recovery mechanism from the effect of prenatal FB1 exposure. Thus, autophagy corrected the effect of FB1 during the early life of the F1 female rats, leading to F2 offspring with ovarian structure and function similar to those of the control. However, the offspring, treated female rats may experience early ovarian aging because their ovarian pool was affected. Full article
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