Parthenogenesis is one of the main, and most useful, methods to derive embryonic stem cells （ESCs）, which may be an important source ofhistocompatible cells and tissues for cell therapy. Here we describe the derivat...Parthenogenesis is one of the main, and most useful, methods to derive embryonic stem cells （ESCs）, which may be an important source ofhistocompatible cells and tissues for cell therapy. Here we describe the derivation and characterization of two ESC lines （hPES-1 and hPES-2） from in vitro developed blastocysts following parthenogenetic activation of human oocytes. Typical ESC morphology was seen, and the expression of ESC markers was as expected for alkaline phosphatase, octamer-binding transcription factor 4, stage-specific embryonic antigen 3, stage-specific embryonic antigen 4, TRA- 1-60, and TRA- 1-81, and there was absence of expression of negative markers such as stage-specific embryonic antigen 1. Expression of genes specific for different embryonic germ layers was detected from the embryoid bodies （EBs） of both hESC lines, suggesting their differentiation potential in vitro. However, in vivo, only hPES-1 formed teratoma consisting of all three embryonic germ layers （hPES-2 did not）. Interestingly, after continuous proliferation for more than 100 passages, hPES-1 cells still maintained a normal 46 XX karyotype; hPES-2 displayed abnormalities such as chromosome translocation after long term passages. Short Tandem Repeat （STR） results demonstrated that the hPES lines were genetic matches with the egg donors, and gene imprinting data confirmed the parthenogenetic origin of these ES cells. Genome-wide SNP analysis showed a pattern typical of parthenogenesis. All of these results demonstrated the feasibility to isolate and establish human parthenogenetic ESC lines, which provides an important tool for studying epigenetic effects in ESCs as well as for future therapeutic interventions in a clinical setting.展开更多
Pluripotent stem cells derived from somatic cells through such processes as nuclear transfer or induced pluripotent stem(iPS) cells present an important model for biomedical research and provide potential resources fo...Pluripotent stem cells derived from somatic cells through such processes as nuclear transfer or induced pluripotent stem(iPS) cells present an important model for biomedical research and provide potential resources for cell replacement therapies.However,the overall efficiency of the conversional nuclear transfer is very low and the safety issue remains a major concern for iPS cells.Embryonic stem cells(ESCs) generated from parthenogenetic embryos are one attractive alternative as a source of histocompatible cells and tissues for cell therapy.Recent studies on human parthenogenetic embryonic stem cells(hPG ESCs) have revealed that these ESCs are very similar to the hESCs derived from IVF or in vivo produced blastocysts in gene expression and other characteristics,but full differentiation and development potential of these hPG ESCs have to be further investigated before clinical research and therapeutic interventions.To generate various pluripotent stem cells,diverse reprogramming techniques and approaches will be developed and integrated.This may help elucidate the fundamental mechanisms underlying reprogramming and stem cell biology,and ultimately benefit cell therapy and regenerative medicine.展开更多
Identification of the function of all genes in the mammalian genome is critical in understanding basic mechanisms of biology.However,the diploidy of mammalian somatic cells has greatly hindered efforts to elucidate th...Identification of the function of all genes in the mammalian genome is critical in understanding basic mechanisms of biology.However,the diploidy of mammalian somatic cells has greatly hindered efforts to elucidate the gene function in numerous biological processes by mutagenesis-based genetic approaches.Recently,mouse haploid embryonic stem(haES)cells have been successfully isolated from parthenogenetic and androgenetic embryos,providing an ideal tool for genetic analyses.In these studies,mouse haES cells have already shown that they could be used in cell-based forward or reverse genetic screenings and in generating gene-targeting via homologous recombination.In particular,haES cells from androgenetic embryos can be employed as novel,renewable form of fertilization agent for yielding live-born mice via injection into oocytes,thus showing the possibility that genetic analysis can be extended from cellular level to organism level.展开更多
Parthenogenetic embryonic stem cells have pluripotent differentiation potentials, akin to fertilized embryo-derived embryonic stem cells. The aim of this study was to compare the neuronal differentiation potential of ...Parthenogenetic embryonic stem cells have pluripotent differentiation potentials, akin to fertilized embryo-derived embryonic stem cells. The aim of this study was to compare the neuronal differentiation potential of parthenogenetic and fertilized embryo-derived embryonic stem cells. Before differentiation, karyotype analysis was performed, with normal karyotypes detected in both parthenogenetic and fertilized embryo-derived embryonic stem cells. Sex chromosomes were identified as XX. Immunocytochemistry and quantitative real-time PCR detected high expression of the pluripotent gene, Oct4, at both the mRNA and protein levels, indicating pluripotent differentiation potential of the two embryonic stem cell subtypes. Embryonic stern cells were induced with retinoic acid to form embryoid bodies, and then dispersed into single cells. Single cells were differentiated in N2 differentiation medium for 9 days. Immunocytochemistry showed parthenogenetic and fertilized embryo-derived embryonic stem cells both express the neuronal cell markers nestin, ~lll-tubulin and myelin basic protein. Quantitative real-time PCR found expression of neuregenesis related genes （Sox-1, Nestin, GABA, Pax6, Zic5 and Pitxl） in both types of embryonic stem cells, and Oct4 expression was significantly decreased. Nestin and Pax6 expression in parthenogenetic embryonic stem cells was significantly higher than that in fertilized embryo-derived embryonic stem cells. Thus, our experimental findings indicate that parthenogenetic embryonic stem cells have stronger neuronal differentiation potential than fertilized embryo-derived embryonic stem cells.展开更多
Background The primary differentially methylated regions(DMRs) which are maternally hypermethylated serve as imprinting control regions(ICRs) that drive monoallelic gene expression, and these ICRs have been investigat...Background The primary differentially methylated regions(DMRs) which are maternally hypermethylated serve as imprinting control regions(ICRs) that drive monoallelic gene expression, and these ICRs have been investigated due to their implications in mammalian development. Although a subset of genes has been identified as imprinted, in-depth comparative approach needs to be developed for identification of species-specific imprinted genes. Here, we examined DNA methylation status and allelic expression at the KBTBD6 locus across species and tissues and explored potential mechanisms of imprinting.Results Using whole-genome bisulfite sequencing and RNA-sequencing on parthenogenetic and normal porcine embryos, we identified a maternally hypermethylated DMR between the embryos at the KBTBD6 promoter Cp G island and paternal monoallelic expression of KBTBD6. Also, in analyzed domesticated mammals but not in humans, non-human primates and mice, the KBTBD6 promoter Cp G islands were methylated in oocytes and/or allelically methyl-ated in tissues, and monoallelic KBTBD6 expression was observed, indicating livestock-specific imprinting. Further analysis revealed that these Cp G islands were embedded within transcripts in porcine and bovine oocytes which coexisted with an active transcription mark and DNA methylation, implying the presence of transcription-dependent imprinting.Conclusions In this study, our comparative approach revealed an imprinted expression of the KBTBD6 gene in domesticated mammals, but not in humans, non-human primates, and mice which implicates species-specific evolution of genomic imprinting.展开更多
The current study was to investigate whether embryo or fetal fibroblast cells treated with 5-aza-2’-deoxyctidine (5-aza-dC) have a positive effect on the in vitro development of porcine parthenogenetic and cloned emb...The current study was to investigate whether embryo or fetal fibroblast cells treated with 5-aza-2’-deoxyctidine (5-aza-dC) have a positive effect on the in vitro development of porcine parthenogenetic and cloned embryos. To this end, porcine fetal fibroblast cells were treated with different concentrations (5 nM, 50 nM and 500 nM) of 5-aza-dC for different exposure times (1, 6 and 20 hours), the results showed that DNA methylation in PRE-1 SINE region was gradually reduced over time in cells treated with 5-aza-dC. To determine the effect of 5-aza-dC on in vitro development of porcine activated oocytes, the parthenogenetic embryo was treated with 5-aza- dC. Notably, treatment with 5 nM 5-aza-dC for 1 hour led to a significant improvement in blastocyst development, compared with the control group. The effects of donor cell treatment with 5-aza-dC on porcine cloned embryos development were further examined by treating fetal fibroblast cells with various concentrations (5 nM, 50 nM and 500 nM) of 5-aza-dC for different exposure times (1, 6 and 20 hours). Exposure of cells in 5 nM 5-aza-dC for 1 - 20 hours led to a significant improvement in the percentage of developed blastocysts, while treatment with 500 nM 5-aza-dC did not affect blastocyst development, compared to untreated controls. These findings indicate that treatment of fetal fibro-blast cells with relatively low concentrations of 5-aza-dC for short exposure times improves subsequent blastocyst development of porcine cloned embryos.展开更多
The effects of chemical activation on birth efficiency of cloned pigs were studied by investigating the developmental process from porcine oocyte activation to birth of cloned pigs.Three different activation methods w...The effects of chemical activation on birth efficiency of cloned pigs were studied by investigating the developmental process from porcine oocyte activation to birth of cloned pigs.Three different activation methods were used:(i) Electroporation(Ele);(ii) Ele followed by incubation with 6-dimethylaminopurine(6-DMAP);and(iii) Ele followed by a treatment with cycloheximide(CHX).In experiment 1,the rates of cleavage,developmental rates and cell number of porcine parthenogenetic(PA) embryos were investigated in the three treatment groups.In experiment 2,NT embryos produced by the three different activation treatments were compared for the rates of cleavage,development and cell number.Finally,the effects of Ele and Ele+CHX activation methods on birth efficiency of cloned pigs were compared.The activated oocytes treated by combination activation generally showed a higher(P<0.05) blastocyst rate and produced more expanded blastocysts than oocytes activated with Ele.The rates of cleavage and total cell number of parthenotes were not significantly different.Parthenogenetic embryos activated with 6-DMAP developed into blastocyst and expanded blastocyst stages at a significantly(P<0.05) higher rate than those treated with Ele,but the developmental capability was dramatically decreased in NT embryos.With the CHX activation method,the NT embryo blastocyst rate was substantially(P<0.05) increased although the production of expanded blastocysts was not significantly different from that by the other two methods.The birth rate of cloned pigs increased in the CHX group,though the rate was not significantly different from Ele.The effects of season on developmental rate of the porcine PA embryos and birth rate of cloned pigs were also examined in our study.Porcine oocytes collected in the spring had higher developmental capabilities than those collected in the winter.However,no difference in birth rate of the cloned pigs was found between the oocytes collected in the two seasons.The results obtained from PA and NT embryos,following 展开更多
Chimerism is defined as the presence in a subject of more than one stable and genetically distinct cell line;cases reported so far include both patients with ambiguous genitalia and healthy subjects. The biological me...Chimerism is defined as the presence in a subject of more than one stable and genetically distinct cell line;cases reported so far include both patients with ambiguous genitalia and healthy subjects. The biological mechanisms, which may give origin to chimeras, are complex, and can be understood by analyzing DNA samples of the patients and their parents using molecular techniques. The objective of this study is to identify the mechanism of origin for the 2 cases we report. The first patient is a phenotipically normal girl with normal (external and internal) genitalia;the second patient had ambiguous genitalia and underwent surgery. DNA was purified from blood samples and, limited to Patient 1, from a sample of biliary cyst. Short tandem repeat polymorphisms were analyzed in order to identify the relative parental contribution to the patients. Molecular analyses carried out on the first patient are not fully informative because of two possible explanations (i.e. parthenogenetic and andrognetic chimera), while in the second case the presence of four alleles at some markers allowed us to identify a tetragametic chimera originnated from the fusion of two distinct embryos. Studies carried on one single tissue may not always be conclusive as they do not allow the precise identification of the mechanism of origin. In these cases, studies on more tissues are strongly suggested.展开更多
A 32bp deletion in the chemokine receptor 5 (CCR5) gene (CMKBR5) was shown to be linked to HIV resistance. Bone marrow transplantation from the homozygous CCR5-del32 donor to a CDC Stage 2 HIV-positive recipient was d...A 32bp deletion in the chemokine receptor 5 (CCR5) gene (CMKBR5) was shown to be linked to HIV resistance. Bone marrow transplantation from the homozygous CCR5-del32 donor to a CDC Stage 2 HIV-positive recipient was demonstrated to confer a HIV resistance, resulting in discontinuation of antiretroviral therapy. In search for an unlimited source of CCR5-del32 cells for transplantation purposes, we tested 137 human embryonic stem cell (hESC) lines from the Reproductive Genetics Institute’s hESC lines collection, and report here the finding of 12 hESC lines with the CCR5-del32 allele, one of which represents a unique partenogenetic ESC line containing two copies of this deletion and may be studied for utility in stem cell transplantation treatment of HIV.展开更多
Parthenogenetic embryonic stem cells（pE SCs）, as ＂seed cells＂ for regenerative medicine, are an effective way to build patient-specific pluripotent stem cells, due to the fact that characteristics of self-renewal ...Parthenogenetic embryonic stem cells（pE SCs）, as ＂seed cells＂ for regenerative medicine, are an effective way to build patient-specific pluripotent stem cells, due to the fact that characteristics of self-renewal and pluripotent are similar to embryonic stem cells（ESCs）. Parthenogenetic activation can be performed at meiosis I or meiosis II describing the embryos with distinct patterns of homozygosity and heterozygosity.Heterozygous pE SCs are expected to be used for autologous transplantation, while homozygous pE SCs enable to be used for allogeneic gene therapy in theory but is hampered by immunological barriers defined by the recognition of natural killer（NK）cells. In this review, we describe the mechanism of deriving heterozygous and homozygous pE SCs, and summarize the advantages and limitations of pE SCs in the area of cell therapy.展开更多
MicroRNAs（miRNAs） are a class of highly conserved small non-coding RNA molecules that play a pivotal role in several cellular functions.In this study,miRNA and messenger RNA（mRNA） profiles were examined by Illumin...MicroRNAs（miRNAs） are a class of highly conserved small non-coding RNA molecules that play a pivotal role in several cellular functions.In this study,miRNA and messenger RNA（mRNA） profiles were examined by Illumina microarray in mouse embryonic stem cells（ESCs） derived from parthenogenetic,androgenetic,and fertilized blastocysts.The global analysis of miRNA-mRNA target pairs provided insight into the role of miRNAs in gene expression.Results showed that a total of 125 miRNAs and 2394 mRNAs were differentially expressed between androgenetic ESCs（aESCs） and fertilized ESCs（fESCs）,a total of 42 miRNAs and 87 mRNAs were differentially expressed between parthenogenetic ESCs（pESCs） and fESCs,and a total of 99 miRNAs and 1788 mRNAs were differentially expressed between aESCs and pESCs.In addition,a total of 575,5 and 376 miRNA-mRNA target pairs were observed in aESCs vs.fESCs,pESCs vs.fESCs,and aESCs vs.pESCs,respectively.Furthermore,15 known imprinted genes and 16 putative uniparentally expressed miRNAs with high expression levels were confirmed by both microarray and real-time RT-PCR.Finally,transfection of miRNA inhibitors was performed to validate the regulatory relationship between putative maternally expressed miRNAs and target mRNAs. Inhibition of miR-880 increased the expression of Peg3,Dyrklb,and Prrg2 mRNA,inhibition of miR-363 increased the expression of Nfat5 and Soatl mRNA,and inhibition of miR-883b-5p increased Nfat5,Tacstd2,and Ppapdc1 mRNA.These results warrant a functional study to fully understand the underlying regulation of genomic imprinting in early embryo development.展开更多
Background:The worldwide pest Aphis gossypii has three-winged morphs in its life cycle,namely,winged parthenogenetic female(WPF),winged gynopara(GP),and winged male,which are all produced by a wingless parthenogenetic...Background:The worldwide pest Aphis gossypii has three-winged morphs in its life cycle,namely,winged parthenogenetic female(WPF),winged gynopara(GP),and winged male,which are all produced by a wingless parthenogenetic female(WLPF).Most studies on A.gossypii have focused on WPF,while few have investigated GP and male.The shared molecular mechanism underlying the wing differentiation in the three wing morphs of A.gossypii remains unknown.The wing differentiation of WPF was explored in a previous study.Herein,GP and male were induced indoors.The characters of the body,internal genitals,wing veins,and fecundity of GP and male were compared with those of WPF or WLPF.Compared with WLPF,the shared and separate differentially expressed genes(DEGs)were identified in these three-wing morphs.Results:Newly-born nymphs reared in short photoperiod condition(8 L:16D,18°C)exclusively produced gynoparae(GPe)and males in adulthood successively,in which the sex ratio was GP biased.A total of 14 GPe and 9 males were produced by one mother aphid.Compared with WLPF,the three-wing morphs exhibited similar morphology and wing vein patterns but were obviously discriminated in the length of fore-and underwings,reproductive system,and fecundity.A total of 37090 annotated unigenes were obtained from libraries constructed using the four morphs via RNA sequencing(RNA-Seq).In addition,10867 and 19334 DEGs were identified in the pairwise comparison of GP versus WLPF and male versus WLPF,respectively.Compared with WLPF,the winged morphs demonstrated 2335 shared DEGs(1658 upregulated and 677 downregulated).The 1658 shared upregulated DEGs were enriched in multiple signaling pathways,including insulin,FoxO,MAPK,starch and sucrose metabolism,fatty acid biosynthesis,and degradation,suggesting their key roles in the regulation of wing plasticity in the cotton aphid.Forty-four genes that spanned the range of differential expression were chosen to validate statistical analysis based on RNA-Seq through the reverse transcription quantitative real time p展开更多
The objective of this study was to determine the effects of ionomycin combined with cytochalasin B （CB）, cycloheximide （CHX）, or 6-dimethylaminopurine （6-DMAP） on the activation of porcine oocytes. In Experiment...The objective of this study was to determine the effects of ionomycin combined with cytochalasin B （CB）, cycloheximide （CHX）, or 6-dimethylaminopurine （6-DMAP） on the activation of porcine oocytes. In Experiment 1, in vitro matured oocytes were activated with 15, 20, 25 or 30 mmol L -1 ionomycin separately. Activation rates of 20, 25 mmol L-1 and 30 mmol L treatments were higher （P〈0.05） than that of 15 mmol L-1 treatment. In Experiment 2, in vitro matured oocytes were activated with 20 mmol L-1 ionomycin for 10, 20, 30, 40 or 50 rain and then incubated with 2 mmol L-1 6-DMAP for 6 h. Cleavage and blastocyst rates [（72.40 ± 13.02）%, （25.37 ± 11.43）%] after treatments for 40 min were higher （P〉0.05） than those of the other treatments. In Experiment 3, matured oocytes were activated with ionomycin and then incubated with 7.5 mg mL-1 CB, 10 mg mL-1 CHX, 2 mmol L-1 6-DMAP, 7.5 mg mL-1 CB ＋ 10 mg mL-1 CHX or 7.5 mg mL-1 CB ＋ 2 mmol L-1 6-DMAP for 6 h. The rates of activation, cleavage and blastocyst of 2 mmol L -1 6-DMAP treatment [（86.05 ± 4.29）%, （61.77 ±8.10）% and （21.62± 3.31）%] were higher （P〈0.05） than those of 7.5 mg mL-1 CB treatment. In Experiment 4, matured oocytes were activated with ionomycin and then incubated with 2 mmol L-1 6-DMAP for 3.5, 5.5 or 7.5 h. Cleavage rates and blastocyst rates of 5.5 h treatment [（66.59 ± 14.36）% and （25.40 ± 10.16）%] were higher （P〉0.05） than those of other treatments. In conclusion, activation of porcine oocytes appears to be most successful using the combination of ionomycin （20 mmol L-1, 40 min） followed by 6-DMAP （2 mmol L-1, 5.5 h）.展开更多
Background： This study was conducted to investigate effect of exogenous melatonin on the development of mouse mature oocytes after cryopreservation. Results： First, mouse metaphase II （MII） oocytes were vitrified ...Background： This study was conducted to investigate effect of exogenous melatonin on the development of mouse mature oocytes after cryopreservation. Results： First, mouse metaphase II （MII） oocytes were vitrified in the open-pulled straws （OPS）. After warming, they were cultured for 1 h in M2 medium containing melatonin at different concentrations （0, 10-9, 10-7, 10-s, 10 3 mol/L）. Then the oocytes were used to detect reactive oxygen species （ROS） and glutathione （GSH） levels （fluorescence microscopy）, and the developmental potential after parthenogenetic activation. The experimental results showed that the ROS level and cleavage rate in 10-3 mol/L melatonin group was significantly lower than that in melatonin-free group （control）. The GSH levels and blastocyst rates in all melatonin-treated groups were similar to that in control. Based on the above results, we detected the expression of gene Hsp9Oaal, Hsfl, Hspalb, Nrf2 and Bcl-xl with qRT-PCR in oocytes treated with 10-7, or 10-3 mol/L melatonin and untreated control. After warming and culture for 1 h, the oocytes showed higher Hsp90oal expression in 10-7 mol/L melatonin-treated group than in the control （P 〈 0.05）; the Hsfl, Hsp9Oaal and Bcl-xl expression were significantly decreased in 10-3 mol/L melatonin-treated group when compared to the control. Based on the above results and previous research, we detected the development of vitrified-warmed oocytes treated with either 10-7 or 0 mol/L melatonin by in vitro fertilization. No difference was observed between them. Conclusions： Our results indicate that the supplementation of melatonin （10-9 to 10-3 mol/L） in culture medium and incubation for 1 h did not improve the subsequent developmental potential of vitrified-warmed mouse MII oocytes, even if there were alteration in gene expression.展开更多
Effects of different ages of donors and different conditions of preserving ovaries onporcine oocytes maturation in vitro and efficiency of parthenogenetic activation werestudied. The experiments included: 1) effects o...Effects of different ages of donors and different conditions of preserving ovaries onporcine oocytes maturation in vitro and efficiency of parthenogenetic activation werestudied. The experiments included: 1) effects of different temperatures (22, 30, 37, 38.5and 40℃) of preserving ovaries on porcine oocytes maturation in vitro and developmentalpotential; 2) effects of periods of preserving ovaries on porcine oocytes maturation invitro and development in vitro; 3) effects of different ages of donors on porcine oocytesmaturation in vitro and developmental potential. The results of the experiment showed:1) There were no statistical differences (p>0.05) of the parthenogenetic cleavage rate(79.64% vs 76.18%) and blastocyst rate (18.11% vs 33.82%) between oocytes from ovariespreserved at 38.5℃ and those preserved at 37℃. When the preserving temperature wasincreased to 40℃, the cleavage rate (21.68%) and the blastocyst rate (0) were greatsignificantly lower than those at 37℃(p<0.01). The cleavage rate (80.79% vs 76.18%) andblastocyst rate (29.61% vs 33.82%) were not different between 30 and 37℃(p>0.05). Whenthe preserving temperature was decreased to 22℃, the rate of cleavage was not different,but the rate of blastocyst was significantly lower, compared with that at 37℃; 2) Thecleavage and blastocyst rates of the porcine oocytes collected after slaughter 2 or 6hwere not different (p>0.05); 3) The cleavage rate of oocytes from gilts and sows aftermaturation was not different, but the blastocyst rate of the sow group was significantlyhigher than that of gilt group (p<0.05). The blastocyst cell number of sows and giltshowed no difference (p>0.05).展开更多
Diploidy is the typical genomic mode in all mammals.Haploid stem cells are artificial cell lines experimentally derived in vitro in the form of different types of stem cells,which combine the characteristics of haploi...Diploidy is the typical genomic mode in all mammals.Haploid stem cells are artificial cell lines experimentally derived in vitro in the form of different types of stem cells,which combine the characteristics of haploidy with a broad developmental potential and open the possibility to uncover biological mysteries at a genomic scale.To date,a multitude of haploid stem cell types from mouse,rat,monkey and humans have been derived,as more are in development.They have been applied in high-throughput genetic screens and mammalian assisted reproduction.Here,we review the generation,unique properties and broad applications of these remarkable cells.展开更多
文摘Parthenogenesis is one of the main, and most useful, methods to derive embryonic stem cells （ESCs）, which may be an important source ofhistocompatible cells and tissues for cell therapy. Here we describe the derivation and characterization of two ESC lines （hPES-1 and hPES-2） from in vitro developed blastocysts following parthenogenetic activation of human oocytes. Typical ESC morphology was seen, and the expression of ESC markers was as expected for alkaline phosphatase, octamer-binding transcription factor 4, stage-specific embryonic antigen 3, stage-specific embryonic antigen 4, TRA- 1-60, and TRA- 1-81, and there was absence of expression of negative markers such as stage-specific embryonic antigen 1. Expression of genes specific for different embryonic germ layers was detected from the embryoid bodies （EBs） of both hESC lines, suggesting their differentiation potential in vitro. However, in vivo, only hPES-1 formed teratoma consisting of all three embryonic germ layers （hPES-2 did not）. Interestingly, after continuous proliferation for more than 100 passages, hPES-1 cells still maintained a normal 46 XX karyotype; hPES-2 displayed abnormalities such as chromosome translocation after long term passages. Short Tandem Repeat （STR） results demonstrated that the hPES lines were genetic matches with the egg donors, and gene imprinting data confirmed the parthenogenetic origin of these ES cells. Genome-wide SNP analysis showed a pattern typical of parthenogenesis. All of these results demonstrated the feasibility to isolate and establish human parthenogenetic ESC lines, which provides an important tool for studying epigenetic effects in ESCs as well as for future therapeutic interventions in a clinical setting.
基金Supported by the National High Technology Research and Development Program of China (Grant No. 2006AA02A101)
文摘Pluripotent stem cells derived from somatic cells through such processes as nuclear transfer or induced pluripotent stem(iPS) cells present an important model for biomedical research and provide potential resources for cell replacement therapies.However,the overall efficiency of the conversional nuclear transfer is very low and the safety issue remains a major concern for iPS cells.Embryonic stem cells(ESCs) generated from parthenogenetic embryos are one attractive alternative as a source of histocompatible cells and tissues for cell therapy.Recent studies on human parthenogenetic embryonic stem cells(hPG ESCs) have revealed that these ESCs are very similar to the hESCs derived from IVF or in vivo produced blastocysts in gene expression and other characteristics,but full differentiation and development potential of these hPG ESCs have to be further investigated before clinical research and therapeutic interventions.To generate various pluripotent stem cells,diverse reprogramming techniques and approaches will be developed and integrated.This may help elucidate the fundamental mechanisms underlying reprogramming and stem cell biology,and ultimately benefit cell therapy and regenerative medicine.
基金supported by grants from the Ministry of Science and Technology of China(No.2009CB941101 to J.L.)the "Strategic Priority Research Program" of the Chinese Academy of Sciences(No.XDA01010403 to J.L.).
文摘Identification of the function of all genes in the mammalian genome is critical in understanding basic mechanisms of biology.However,the diploidy of mammalian somatic cells has greatly hindered efforts to elucidate the gene function in numerous biological processes by mutagenesis-based genetic approaches.Recently,mouse haploid embryonic stem(haES)cells have been successfully isolated from parthenogenetic and androgenetic embryos,providing an ideal tool for genetic analyses.In these studies,mouse haES cells have already shown that they could be used in cell-based forward or reverse genetic screenings and in generating gene-targeting via homologous recombination.In particular,haES cells from androgenetic embryos can be employed as novel,renewable form of fertilization agent for yielding live-born mice via injection into oocytes,thus showing the possibility that genetic analysis can be extended from cellular level to organism level.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No. 30900155 and 81070496the Research Foundation of Education Bureau of Shaanxi Province,China,No. 09JK785+1 种基金Foundation of Interdisciplinary for Postgraduates from Northwest University,No. 08YJC22the Key Laboratory Funding of Northwestern University,Shaanxi Province in China
文摘Parthenogenetic embryonic stem cells have pluripotent differentiation potentials, akin to fertilized embryo-derived embryonic stem cells. The aim of this study was to compare the neuronal differentiation potential of parthenogenetic and fertilized embryo-derived embryonic stem cells. Before differentiation, karyotype analysis was performed, with normal karyotypes detected in both parthenogenetic and fertilized embryo-derived embryonic stem cells. Sex chromosomes were identified as XX. Immunocytochemistry and quantitative real-time PCR detected high expression of the pluripotent gene, Oct4, at both the mRNA and protein levels, indicating pluripotent differentiation potential of the two embryonic stem cell subtypes. Embryonic stern cells were induced with retinoic acid to form embryoid bodies, and then dispersed into single cells. Single cells were differentiated in N2 differentiation medium for 9 days. Immunocytochemistry showed parthenogenetic and fertilized embryo-derived embryonic stem cells both express the neuronal cell markers nestin, ~lll-tubulin and myelin basic protein. Quantitative real-time PCR found expression of neuregenesis related genes （Sox-1, Nestin, GABA, Pax6, Zic5 and Pitxl） in both types of embryonic stem cells, and Oct4 expression was significantly decreased. Nestin and Pax6 expression in parthenogenetic embryonic stem cells was significantly higher than that in fertilized embryo-derived embryonic stem cells. Thus, our experimental findings indicate that parthenogenetic embryonic stem cells have stronger neuronal differentiation potential than fertilized embryo-derived embryonic stem cells.
基金partially supported by the United States Department of Agriculture National Institute of Food and Agriculture Hatch Grant (Project No.OHO01304)。
文摘Background The primary differentially methylated regions(DMRs) which are maternally hypermethylated serve as imprinting control regions(ICRs) that drive monoallelic gene expression, and these ICRs have been investigated due to their implications in mammalian development. Although a subset of genes has been identified as imprinted, in-depth comparative approach needs to be developed for identification of species-specific imprinted genes. Here, we examined DNA methylation status and allelic expression at the KBTBD6 locus across species and tissues and explored potential mechanisms of imprinting.Results Using whole-genome bisulfite sequencing and RNA-sequencing on parthenogenetic and normal porcine embryos, we identified a maternally hypermethylated DMR between the embryos at the KBTBD6 promoter Cp G island and paternal monoallelic expression of KBTBD6. Also, in analyzed domesticated mammals but not in humans, non-human primates and mice, the KBTBD6 promoter Cp G islands were methylated in oocytes and/or allelically methyl-ated in tissues, and monoallelic KBTBD6 expression was observed, indicating livestock-specific imprinting. Further analysis revealed that these Cp G islands were embedded within transcripts in porcine and bovine oocytes which coexisted with an active transcription mark and DNA methylation, implying the presence of transcription-dependent imprinting.Conclusions In this study, our comparative approach revealed an imprinted expression of the KBTBD6 gene in domesticated mammals, but not in humans, non-human primates, and mice which implicates species-specific evolution of genomic imprinting.
文摘The current study was to investigate whether embryo or fetal fibroblast cells treated with 5-aza-2’-deoxyctidine (5-aza-dC) have a positive effect on the in vitro development of porcine parthenogenetic and cloned embryos. To this end, porcine fetal fibroblast cells were treated with different concentrations (5 nM, 50 nM and 500 nM) of 5-aza-dC for different exposure times (1, 6 and 20 hours), the results showed that DNA methylation in PRE-1 SINE region was gradually reduced over time in cells treated with 5-aza-dC. To determine the effect of 5-aza-dC on in vitro development of porcine activated oocytes, the parthenogenetic embryo was treated with 5-aza- dC. Notably, treatment with 5 nM 5-aza-dC for 1 hour led to a significant improvement in blastocyst development, compared with the control group. The effects of donor cell treatment with 5-aza-dC on porcine cloned embryos development were further examined by treating fetal fibroblast cells with various concentrations (5 nM, 50 nM and 500 nM) of 5-aza-dC for different exposure times (1, 6 and 20 hours). Exposure of cells in 5 nM 5-aza-dC for 1 - 20 hours led to a significant improvement in the percentage of developed blastocysts, while treatment with 500 nM 5-aza-dC did not affect blastocyst development, compared to untreated controls. These findings indicate that treatment of fetal fibro-blast cells with relatively low concentrations of 5-aza-dC for short exposure times improves subsequent blastocyst development of porcine cloned embryos.
基金Supported by National Key Basic Research and Development Program (China of Grant No. G200000161)
文摘The effects of chemical activation on birth efficiency of cloned pigs were studied by investigating the developmental process from porcine oocyte activation to birth of cloned pigs.Three different activation methods were used:(i) Electroporation(Ele);(ii) Ele followed by incubation with 6-dimethylaminopurine(6-DMAP);and(iii) Ele followed by a treatment with cycloheximide(CHX).In experiment 1,the rates of cleavage,developmental rates and cell number of porcine parthenogenetic(PA) embryos were investigated in the three treatment groups.In experiment 2,NT embryos produced by the three different activation treatments were compared for the rates of cleavage,development and cell number.Finally,the effects of Ele and Ele+CHX activation methods on birth efficiency of cloned pigs were compared.The activated oocytes treated by combination activation generally showed a higher(P<0.05) blastocyst rate and produced more expanded blastocysts than oocytes activated with Ele.The rates of cleavage and total cell number of parthenotes were not significantly different.Parthenogenetic embryos activated with 6-DMAP developed into blastocyst and expanded blastocyst stages at a significantly(P<0.05) higher rate than those treated with Ele,but the developmental capability was dramatically decreased in NT embryos.With the CHX activation method,the NT embryo blastocyst rate was substantially(P<0.05) increased although the production of expanded blastocysts was not significantly different from that by the other two methods.The birth rate of cloned pigs increased in the CHX group,though the rate was not significantly different from Ele.The effects of season on developmental rate of the porcine PA embryos and birth rate of cloned pigs were also examined in our study.Porcine oocytes collected in the spring had higher developmental capabilities than those collected in the winter.However,no difference in birth rate of the cloned pigs was found between the oocytes collected in the two seasons.The results obtained from PA and NT embryos,following
文摘Chimerism is defined as the presence in a subject of more than one stable and genetically distinct cell line;cases reported so far include both patients with ambiguous genitalia and healthy subjects. The biological mechanisms, which may give origin to chimeras, are complex, and can be understood by analyzing DNA samples of the patients and their parents using molecular techniques. The objective of this study is to identify the mechanism of origin for the 2 cases we report. The first patient is a phenotipically normal girl with normal (external and internal) genitalia;the second patient had ambiguous genitalia and underwent surgery. DNA was purified from blood samples and, limited to Patient 1, from a sample of biliary cyst. Short tandem repeat polymorphisms were analyzed in order to identify the relative parental contribution to the patients. Molecular analyses carried out on the first patient are not fully informative because of two possible explanations (i.e. parthenogenetic and andrognetic chimera), while in the second case the presence of four alleles at some markers allowed us to identify a tetragametic chimera originnated from the fusion of two distinct embryos. Studies carried on one single tissue may not always be conclusive as they do not allow the precise identification of the mechanism of origin. In these cases, studies on more tissues are strongly suggested.
文摘A 32bp deletion in the chemokine receptor 5 (CCR5) gene (CMKBR5) was shown to be linked to HIV resistance. Bone marrow transplantation from the homozygous CCR5-del32 donor to a CDC Stage 2 HIV-positive recipient was demonstrated to confer a HIV resistance, resulting in discontinuation of antiretroviral therapy. In search for an unlimited source of CCR5-del32 cells for transplantation purposes, we tested 137 human embryonic stem cell (hESC) lines from the Reproductive Genetics Institute’s hESC lines collection, and report here the finding of 12 hESC lines with the CCR5-del32 allele, one of which represents a unique partenogenetic ESC line containing two copies of this deletion and may be studied for utility in stem cell transplantation treatment of HIV.
文摘Parthenogenetic embryonic stem cells（pE SCs）, as ＂seed cells＂ for regenerative medicine, are an effective way to build patient-specific pluripotent stem cells, due to the fact that characteristics of self-renewal and pluripotent are similar to embryonic stem cells（ESCs）. Parthenogenetic activation can be performed at meiosis I or meiosis II describing the embryos with distinct patterns of homozygosity and heterozygosity.Heterozygous pE SCs are expected to be used for autologous transplantation, while homozygous pE SCs enable to be used for allogeneic gene therapy in theory but is hampered by immunological barriers defined by the recognition of natural killer（NK）cells. In this review, we describe the mechanism of deriving heterozygous and homozygous pE SCs, and summarize the advantages and limitations of pE SCs in the area of cell therapy.
基金supported by the grants from the NextGeneration BioGreen 21 Program(Nos.PJ009080 and PJ00909801)Rural Development Administration,Republic of Korea
文摘MicroRNAs（miRNAs） are a class of highly conserved small non-coding RNA molecules that play a pivotal role in several cellular functions.In this study,miRNA and messenger RNA（mRNA） profiles were examined by Illumina microarray in mouse embryonic stem cells（ESCs） derived from parthenogenetic,androgenetic,and fertilized blastocysts.The global analysis of miRNA-mRNA target pairs provided insight into the role of miRNAs in gene expression.Results showed that a total of 125 miRNAs and 2394 mRNAs were differentially expressed between androgenetic ESCs（aESCs） and fertilized ESCs（fESCs）,a total of 42 miRNAs and 87 mRNAs were differentially expressed between parthenogenetic ESCs（pESCs） and fESCs,and a total of 99 miRNAs and 1788 mRNAs were differentially expressed between aESCs and pESCs.In addition,a total of 575,5 and 376 miRNA-mRNA target pairs were observed in aESCs vs.fESCs,pESCs vs.fESCs,and aESCs vs.pESCs,respectively.Furthermore,15 known imprinted genes and 16 putative uniparentally expressed miRNAs with high expression levels were confirmed by both microarray and real-time RT-PCR.Finally,transfection of miRNA inhibitors was performed to validate the regulatory relationship between putative maternally expressed miRNAs and target mRNAs. Inhibition of miR-880 increased the expression of Peg3,Dyrklb,and Prrg2 mRNA,inhibition of miR-363 increased the expression of Nfat5 and Soatl mRNA,and inhibition of miR-883b-5p increased Nfat5,Tacstd2,and Ppapdc1 mRNA.These results warrant a functional study to fully understand the underlying regulation of genomic imprinting in early embryo development.
基金Central Public-interest Scientific Institution Basal Research Fund(No.1610162019020604).
文摘Background:The worldwide pest Aphis gossypii has three-winged morphs in its life cycle,namely,winged parthenogenetic female(WPF),winged gynopara(GP),and winged male,which are all produced by a wingless parthenogenetic female(WLPF).Most studies on A.gossypii have focused on WPF,while few have investigated GP and male.The shared molecular mechanism underlying the wing differentiation in the three wing morphs of A.gossypii remains unknown.The wing differentiation of WPF was explored in a previous study.Herein,GP and male were induced indoors.The characters of the body,internal genitals,wing veins,and fecundity of GP and male were compared with those of WPF or WLPF.Compared with WLPF,the shared and separate differentially expressed genes(DEGs)were identified in these three-wing morphs.Results:Newly-born nymphs reared in short photoperiod condition(8 L:16D,18°C)exclusively produced gynoparae(GPe)and males in adulthood successively,in which the sex ratio was GP biased.A total of 14 GPe and 9 males were produced by one mother aphid.Compared with WLPF,the three-wing morphs exhibited similar morphology and wing vein patterns but were obviously discriminated in the length of fore-and underwings,reproductive system,and fecundity.A total of 37090 annotated unigenes were obtained from libraries constructed using the four morphs via RNA sequencing(RNA-Seq).In addition,10867 and 19334 DEGs were identified in the pairwise comparison of GP versus WLPF and male versus WLPF,respectively.Compared with WLPF,the winged morphs demonstrated 2335 shared DEGs(1658 upregulated and 677 downregulated).The 1658 shared upregulated DEGs were enriched in multiple signaling pathways,including insulin,FoxO,MAPK,starch and sucrose metabolism,fatty acid biosynthesis,and degradation,suggesting their key roles in the regulation of wing plasticity in the cotton aphid.Forty-four genes that spanned the range of differential expression were chosen to validate statistical analysis based on RNA-Seq through the reverse transcription quantitative real time p
文摘The objective of this study was to determine the effects of ionomycin combined with cytochalasin B （CB）, cycloheximide （CHX）, or 6-dimethylaminopurine （6-DMAP） on the activation of porcine oocytes. In Experiment 1, in vitro matured oocytes were activated with 15, 20, 25 or 30 mmol L -1 ionomycin separately. Activation rates of 20, 25 mmol L-1 and 30 mmol L treatments were higher （P〈0.05） than that of 15 mmol L-1 treatment. In Experiment 2, in vitro matured oocytes were activated with 20 mmol L-1 ionomycin for 10, 20, 30, 40 or 50 rain and then incubated with 2 mmol L-1 6-DMAP for 6 h. Cleavage and blastocyst rates [（72.40 ± 13.02）%, （25.37 ± 11.43）%] after treatments for 40 min were higher （P〉0.05） than those of the other treatments. In Experiment 3, matured oocytes were activated with ionomycin and then incubated with 7.5 mg mL-1 CB, 10 mg mL-1 CHX, 2 mmol L-1 6-DMAP, 7.5 mg mL-1 CB ＋ 10 mg mL-1 CHX or 7.5 mg mL-1 CB ＋ 2 mmol L-1 6-DMAP for 6 h. The rates of activation, cleavage and blastocyst of 2 mmol L -1 6-DMAP treatment [（86.05 ± 4.29）%, （61.77 ±8.10）% and （21.62± 3.31）%] were higher （P〈0.05） than those of 7.5 mg mL-1 CB treatment. In Experiment 4, matured oocytes were activated with ionomycin and then incubated with 2 mmol L-1 6-DMAP for 3.5, 5.5 or 7.5 h. Cleavage rates and blastocyst rates of 5.5 h treatment [（66.59 ± 14.36）% and （25.40 ± 10.16）%] were higher （P〉0.05） than those of other treatments. In conclusion, activation of porcine oocytes appears to be most successful using the combination of ionomycin （20 mmol L-1, 40 min） followed by 6-DMAP （2 mmol L-1, 5.5 h）.
基金supported in part by the National genetically modified organisms breeding major projects(Grant No.2014ZX0800802B)the fund for Backup Candidate of Academic Technology Leaders in Sichuan Province
文摘Background： This study was conducted to investigate effect of exogenous melatonin on the development of mouse mature oocytes after cryopreservation. Results： First, mouse metaphase II （MII） oocytes were vitrified in the open-pulled straws （OPS）. After warming, they were cultured for 1 h in M2 medium containing melatonin at different concentrations （0, 10-9, 10-7, 10-s, 10 3 mol/L）. Then the oocytes were used to detect reactive oxygen species （ROS） and glutathione （GSH） levels （fluorescence microscopy）, and the developmental potential after parthenogenetic activation. The experimental results showed that the ROS level and cleavage rate in 10-3 mol/L melatonin group was significantly lower than that in melatonin-free group （control）. The GSH levels and blastocyst rates in all melatonin-treated groups were similar to that in control. Based on the above results, we detected the expression of gene Hsp9Oaal, Hsfl, Hspalb, Nrf2 and Bcl-xl with qRT-PCR in oocytes treated with 10-7, or 10-3 mol/L melatonin and untreated control. After warming and culture for 1 h, the oocytes showed higher Hsp90oal expression in 10-7 mol/L melatonin-treated group than in the control （P 〈 0.05）; the Hsfl, Hsp9Oaal and Bcl-xl expression were significantly decreased in 10-3 mol/L melatonin-treated group when compared to the control. Based on the above results and previous research, we detected the development of vitrified-warmed oocytes treated with either 10-7 or 0 mol/L melatonin by in vitro fertilization. No difference was observed between them. Conclusions： Our results indicate that the supplementation of melatonin （10-9 to 10-3 mol/L） in culture medium and incubation for 1 h did not improve the subsequent developmental potential of vitrified-warmed mouse MII oocytes, even if there were alteration in gene expression.
文摘Effects of different ages of donors and different conditions of preserving ovaries onporcine oocytes maturation in vitro and efficiency of parthenogenetic activation werestudied. The experiments included: 1) effects of different temperatures (22, 30, 37, 38.5and 40℃) of preserving ovaries on porcine oocytes maturation in vitro and developmentalpotential; 2) effects of periods of preserving ovaries on porcine oocytes maturation invitro and development in vitro; 3) effects of different ages of donors on porcine oocytesmaturation in vitro and developmental potential. The results of the experiment showed:1) There were no statistical differences (p>0.05) of the parthenogenetic cleavage rate(79.64% vs 76.18%) and blastocyst rate (18.11% vs 33.82%) between oocytes from ovariespreserved at 38.5℃ and those preserved at 37℃. When the preserving temperature wasincreased to 40℃, the cleavage rate (21.68%) and the blastocyst rate (0) were greatsignificantly lower than those at 37℃(p<0.01). The cleavage rate (80.79% vs 76.18%) andblastocyst rate (29.61% vs 33.82%) were not different between 30 and 37℃(p>0.05). Whenthe preserving temperature was decreased to 22℃, the rate of cleavage was not different,but the rate of blastocyst was significantly lower, compared with that at 37℃; 2) Thecleavage and blastocyst rates of the porcine oocytes collected after slaughter 2 or 6hwere not different (p>0.05); 3) The cleavage rate of oocytes from gilts and sows aftermaturation was not different, but the blastocyst rate of the sow group was significantlyhigher than that of gilt group (p<0.05). The blastocyst cell number of sows and giltshowed no difference (p>0.05).
基金supported by the Strategic Priority Research Program of the Chinese Academy of Sciences(Grant No.XDA16030400)the National Basic Research Program of China(Grant No.2014CB964800)+2 种基金the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant Nos.31621004,31422038)the National Key Research and Development Program(Grant No.2017YFA0103803)CAS Key Projects(Grant No.QYZDY-SSWSMC022,QYZDB-SSW-SMC002).
文摘Diploidy is the typical genomic mode in all mammals.Haploid stem cells are artificial cell lines experimentally derived in vitro in the form of different types of stem cells,which combine the characteristics of haploidy with a broad developmental potential and open the possibility to uncover biological mysteries at a genomic scale.To date,a multitude of haploid stem cell types from mouse,rat,monkey and humans have been derived,as more are in development.They have been applied in high-throughput genetic screens and mammalian assisted reproduction.Here,we review the generation,unique properties and broad applications of these remarkable cells.
