scholarly journals Developmental changes of the oestrogen receptor-alpha and -beta mRNAs in the female reproductive organ of the rat--an analysis by in situ hybridization

2000 ◽  
Vol 167 (3) ◽  
pp. 363-369 ◽  
Author(s):  
CN Mowa ◽  
T Iwanaga
Keyword(s):  
In Situ Hybridization ◽  
Oestrogen Receptor ◽  
Reproductive Tract ◽  
Reproductive Organ ◽  
Female Reproductive Tract ◽  
Prenatal Period ◽  
Cellular Expression ◽  
Female Reproductive Organ ◽  
Er Alpha

This study employed an in situ hybridization technique to compare the cellular expression of oestrogen receptor (ER) subtypes, ER alpha and beta, in the female reproductive organ of the rat during prenatal and postnatal periods. Diffuse signals of ER alpha and beta mRNAs were co-expressed in the foetal ovary; they were weak and inconsistent before onset of gonadal differentiation, but increased in intensity with age. ER beta mRNA signals in the ovary sharply increased in intensity to adult levels by postnatal days 6-7, whereas those of ER alpha mRNA remained unchanged after birth. ER alpha was the sole subtype expressed during the prenatal period from the oviduct to the vagina, being localized mainly to the sub-epithelial stromal cells, and remained predominant thereafter. Signals for ER alpha mRNA in the epithelia were confined to the oviduct during prenatal and early postnatal periods; those in uterine and vaginal epithelia first appeared by postnatal days 4-5 and 6 respectively. Expressions of ER beta mRNA in the reproductive tract were absent during the prenatal period, and were weakly expressed during the postnatal period. Thus, oestrogen action in the developing ovary may be co-mediated by both ER alpha and beta, whereas ER alpha may be the primary mediator in the differentiation and growth of the female reproductive tract.

scholarly journals Differential distribution of oestrogen receptor-alpha and -beta mRNAs in the female reproductive organ of rats as revealed by in situ hybridization

2000 ◽  
Vol 165 (1) ◽  
pp. 59-66 ◽  
Author(s):  
CN Mowa ◽  
T Iwanaga
Keyword(s):  
In Situ Hybridization ◽  
Stromal Cells ◽  
Oestrogen Receptor ◽  
Reproductive Tract ◽  
Reproductive Organ ◽  
Differential Distribution ◽  
Oestrogen Receptor Alpha ◽  
Female Reproductive Organ ◽  
Significant Expression

The cellular distribution of two oestrogen receptor (ER) subtypes, ERalpha and ERbeta mRNAs, was studied in the entire female reproductive organ of the rat using in situ hybridization. Expression of ERalpha and ERbeta mRNAs was predominant in the reproductive tract and ovary respectively. ERalpha mRNA had the most pronounced expression in epithelial cells and subepithelial stromal cells from the oviduct to the vagina, while in the ovary it was moderately detected in only the theca folliculi and interstitial glands. The oviduct showed a region-dependent expression of ERalpha mRNA: the isthmus had the most intense signals while the infundibulum revealed a low intensity of expression. Signals for ERbeta mRNA in the ovary were most intense in the granulosa cells of healthy follicles, whereas degenerating follicles lacked any significant expression. Less intense signals for ERbeta mRNA were localized in the theca folliculi and corpus luteum. Detectable levels of ERbeta mRNA were observed in the subepithelial stromal cells from the oviduct to the vagina. This study shows that the two ER subtypes are differentially expressed in cells and compartments of the reproductive organ, suggesting that the mediation of oestrogen action in these tissues may be accomplished through the respective predominant receptor.

scholarly journals In situ hybridization reveals temporal and spatial changes in cellular expression of mRNA for a laminin receptor, laminin, and basement membrane (type IV) collagen in the developing kidney.

1989 ◽  
Vol 109 (3) ◽  
pp. 1351-1362 ◽  
Author(s):  
G W Laurie ◽  
S Horikoshi ◽  
P D Killen ◽  
B Segui-Real ◽  
Y Yamada
Keyword(s):  
In Situ Hybridization ◽  
Steady State ◽  
Mrna Expression ◽  
Collagen Iv ◽  
Receptor Expression ◽  
Laminin Receptor ◽  
Northern Analysis ◽  
Cellular Expression ◽  
Distal Tubules

The appearance of extracellular matrix molecules and their receptors represent key events in the differentiation of cells of the kidney. Steady-state mRNA levels for a laminin receptor, the laminin B1, B2, and A chains, and the alpha 1-chain of collagen IV (alpha 1[IV]), were examined in mouse kidneys at 16 d gestation and birth, when cell differentiation is active, and 1-3 wk after birth when this activity has subsided. Northern analysis revealed that mRNA expression of laminin receptor precedes the alpha 1(IV) and laminin B chains whereas laminin A chain mRNA expression was very low. In situ hybridization reflected this pattern and revealed the cells responsible for expression. At 16 d gestation, laminin receptor mRNA was elevated in cells of newly forming glomeruli and proximal and distal tubules of the nephrogenic zone located in the kidney cortex. These cells also expressed mRNA for alpha 1(IV) and laminin chains. At birth, mRNA expression of receptor and all chains remained high in glomeruli but was reduced in proximal and distal tubules. At 1 wk after birth, expression was located in the medulla over collecting ducts and loops of Henle. Little expression was detectable by 3 wk. These results suggest that cellular expression of steady-state mRNA for laminin receptor, laminin, and collagen IV is temporally linked, with laminin receptor expression proceeding first and thereafter subsiding.

Effects on differentiation of reproductive organs and sexual behaviour in Japanese quail by excessive embryonic ERα activation

2010 ◽  
Vol 22 (2) ◽  
pp. 416 ◽  
Author(s):  
Anna Mattsson ◽  
Björn Brunström
Keyword(s):  
Japanese Quail ◽  
Oestrogen Receptor ◽  
Reproductive Tract ◽  
Reproductive Organs ◽  
Positive Control ◽  
Reproductive Organ ◽  
Testis Size ◽  
Left Testis ◽  
The Right ◽  
Copulatory Behaviour

Exposure of Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica) embryos to oestrogenic substances disrupts sexual differentiation of the reproductive tract of both sexes and impairs the copulatory behaviour of the adult male. To examine whether these effects can be induced by selective activation of oestrogen receptor α (ERα), Japanese quail eggs were injected with various doses of the selective ERα agonist 16α-lactone-oestradiol (16α-LE2). The natural oestrogen 17β-oestradiol (E2) was used as a positive control. Both 16α-LE2 and E2 induced formation of an ovary-like cortex in the left testis (ovotestis) and reduced the size of the right testis in male embryos. The asymmetry in testis size remained in sexually mature males. Both substances induced retention and malformation of the Müllerian ducts in embryos of both sexes and malformed oviducts in juveniles. Male copulatory behaviour was suppressed by embryonic exposure to E2 and the highest dose of 16α-LE2. However, the lower dose of 16α-LE2, which markedly affected development of the reproductive organs, was without effects on behaviour. It can therefore not be excluded that the behavioural demasculinisation at the 100-fold higher dose involved cross-activation of oestrogen receptor β (ERβ). In conclusion, our results suggest that oestrogen-induced disruption of reproductive organ development in Japanese quail can be mediated via ERα, whereas the role of ERα in demasculinisation of copulatory behaviour remains to be clarified.

scholarly journals Localization of oestrogen receptor alpha, oestrogen receptor beta and androgen receptors in the rat reproductive organs

2000 ◽  
Vol 165 (2) ◽  
pp. 359-370 ◽  
Author(s):  
G Pelletier ◽  
C Labrie ◽  
F Labrie
Keyword(s):  
In Situ Hybridization ◽  
Epithelial Cells ◽  
Leydig Cells ◽  
Oestrogen Receptor ◽  
Muscle Cells ◽  
Seminal Vesicles ◽  
Secretory Cells ◽  
Cell Nuclei ◽  
Sites Of Action

There is now evidence that oestrogens and androgens can influence male and female reproductive systems. In order to accurately identify the sites of action of oestrogens and androgens, we have proceeded to the histological localization of the two oestrogen receptor (ER) subtypes, ERalpha and ERbeta, and the androgen receptor (AR) in the reproductive tissues of adult rats of both sexes. AR was detected by immunocytochemistry, while ERalpha and ERbeta were localized by both immunocytochemistry and in situ hybridization. In the pituitary gland of animals of both sexes, ERalpha was found in the majority of nuclei of secretory cells in the anterior pituitary. The intermediate and posterior lobes did not show any staining. ERbeta was not found to be expressed in any of the pituitary lobes. Using AR antibodies, nuclear staining was detected in about 50% of secretory cells of the anterior lobe, the intermediate and posterior lobes being completely unstained. In the testis, ERalpha was localized in nuclei of Leydig cells as well as in round spermatocytes and spermatids, while ERbeta could only be detected in Sertoli cell nuclei. AR immunoreactivity was found in nuclei of Sertoli, peritubular myoid and Leydig cells. In the prostate, ERbeta was observed in epithelial cells of tubulo-alveoli, while the stroma was unlabelled. ERalpha was not found to be expressed in any prostate cells. In the prostate, AR was detected in nuclei of epithelial, stromal and endothelial cells. In seminal vesicles, staining of ERalpha was found in nuclei of epithelial and stromal cells. Similar findings were observed using AR antibodies. While ERbeta mRNA could not be detected by in situ hybridization, weak staining for ERbeta was localized in epithelial cells of seminal vesicles. In the ovary, both ERalpha and ERbeta were found to be expressed. ERbeta mRNA was found in granulosa cells of growing follicles, while ERalpha was present in theca cells, interstitial gland cells and germinal epithelium. AR immunoreactivity was detected in granulosa cell nuclei in growing follicles and also in scattered interstitial cells. In the oviduct and uterus, ERalpha was observed in nuclei of epithelial cells as well as of stromal and muscle cells. Similarly, AR immunoreactivity was present in nuclei of epithelial cells, stromal and muscle cells in both the oviduct and uterus. ERbeta was not detected in the oviduct and uterus. The present findings indicate a cell-specific localization of ERalpha, ERbeta and AR in reproductive tissues in rats of both sexes. By establishing the precise sites of action of oestrogens and androgens they contribute to a better understanding of the respective role of these steroids in reproduction function.

Computational modelling of maternal interactions with spermatozoa: potentials and prospects

2011 ◽  
Vol 23 (8) ◽  
pp. 976 ◽  
Author(s):  
Mark Burkitt ◽  
Dawn Walker ◽  
Daniela M. Romano ◽  
Alireza Fazeli
Keyword(s):  
Reproductive Tract ◽  
Computational Modelling ◽  
Female Reproductive Tract ◽  
In Vivo Experiments ◽  
Complex Interactions ◽  
Maternal Communication ◽  
In Silico Models

Understanding the complex interactions between gametes, embryos and the maternal tract is required knowledge for combating infertility and developing new methods of contraception. Here we present some main aspects of spermatozoa interactions with the mammalian oviduct before fertilisation and discuss how computational modelling can be used as an invaluable aid to experimental investigation in this field. A complete predictive computational model of gamete and embryo interactions with the female reproductive tract is a long way off. However, the enormity of this task should not discourage us from working towards it. Computational modelling allows us to investigate aspects of maternal communication with gametes and embryos, which are financially, ethically or practically difficult to look at experimentally. In silico models of maternal communication with gametes and embryos can be used as tools to complement in vivo experiments, in the same way as in vitro and in situ models.

scholarly journals 3D in situ imaging of the female reproductive tract reveals molecular signatures of fertilizing spermatozoa in mice

eLife ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 9 ◽  
Author(s):  
Lukas Ded ◽  
Jae Yeon Hwang ◽  
Kiyoshi Miki ◽  
Huanan F Shi ◽  
Jean-Ju Chung
Keyword(s):  
Reproductive Tract ◽  
Female Reproductive Tract ◽  
Sperm Selection ◽  
Pharmacological Studies ◽  
Sperm Migration ◽  
Selection For ◽  
Insight Into

Out of millions of ejaculated sperm, a few reach the fertilization site in mammals. Flagellar Ca2+ signaling nanodomains, organized by multi-subunit CatSper calcium channel complexes, are pivotal for sperm migration in the female tract, implicating CatSper-dependent mechanisms in sperm selection. Here using biochemical and pharmacological studies, we demonstrate that CatSper1 is an O-linked glycosylated protein, undergoing capacitation-induced processing dependent on Ca2+ and phosphorylation cascades. CatSper1 processing correlates with protein tyrosine phosphorylation (pY) development in sperm cells capacitated in vitro and in vivo. Using 3D in situ molecular imaging and ANN-based automatic detection of sperm distributed along the cleared female tract, we demonstrate that spermatozoa past the utero-tubal junction possess the intact CatSper1 signals. Together, we reveal that fertilizing mouse spermatozoa in situ are characterized by intact CatSper channel, lack of pY, and reacted acrosomes. These findings provide molecular insight into sperm selection for successful fertilization in the female reproductive tract.

174 RECOVERY OF LONG-BEAKED COMMON DOLPHIN OOCYTES FROM KOREAN WATERS

2014 ◽  
Vol 26 (1) ◽  
pp. 201
Author(s):  
S. U. Hwang ◽  
Y. Jeon ◽  
J. D. Yoon ◽  
L. Cai ◽  
E. Kim ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Reproductive Tract ◽  
Morphological Characteristics ◽  
Cumulus Cells ◽  
Reproductive Organ ◽  
Female Reproductive Tract ◽  
Common Dolphin ◽  
Korean Waters ◽  
Reproductive Techniques ◽  
Delphinus Capensis

The aims of this study were to collect oocytes from ovaries of Delphinus capensis (long-beaked common dolphin) and to examine the morphological characteristics of their reproductive organ. Female genital organs were collected from 2 incidentally caught Delphinus capensis (ID-96: estimated 5–6 years, and ID-97: estimated 7–8 years). Collected ovaries were transported to the laboratory over 3.5 h in 0.9% saline at 39°C. To perform assisted reproductive techniques in wild animals, it is important to maximize the number of oocyte recovered per ovary. In this study, Delphinus capensis oocytes were collected by 2 methods: (1) aspiration of visible follicles (2 to 3 mm in diameter) and (2) remnant dissection, in which the ovary is finely dissected. The collected cumulus–oocyte complexes (COC) were separated by ovary of origin and collection method. Oocytes were subjected to in vitro maturation (IVM). Immature oocytes were placed into IVM medium [TCM-199 supplemented with 10% (vol/vol) fetal bovine serum, 0.5 IU mL–1 LH, and 0.5 IU mL–1 porcine FSH] in the 4-well dish for 120 h at 37°C in 5% CO2 in a humidified atmosphere. The uterus type was observed to be a uterus bicornis. Morphology of ovary was similar to the bovine ovary among land animals. In total, 114 oocytes were obtained. From the ovary of ID-97, the number of oocytes recovered by aspiration and ovary dissection were 15 and 57, respectively. However, only 42 oocytes were recovered by ovary dissection from the ovary of ID-96. The number of oocytes recovered per ovary by dissection (49.5 ± 7.5) was higher than that by the aspiration (7.5 ± 7.5) method, but not significantly different (P = 0.06). For accurate statistical analysis, additional trials will be performed. Most oocytes had either no cumulus cells or had only 1 to 2 layers attached to the zona pellucida enclosing a homogeneous cytoplasm. After IVM, all oocytes were at the metaphase I stage, with even fewer attached cumulus cells than at recovery. To summarise, we describe the gross morphology of the female reproductive tract of the long-beaked common dolphin and determined that dissection of the ovary is required for maximal recovery of oocytes. This work was supported, in part, by a grant from the Next-Generation Bio Green 21 Program (No. PJ00956901), Rural Development Administration, and the National Research Foundation of Korea Grant funded by the Korean Government (NRF-2012R1A1A4A01004885, NRF-2013R1A2A2A04008751), Republic of Korea.

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