Age-related expression of TGF beta family receptors in human cumulus oophorus cells

• Type: Article in International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2017

Authors

Ribeiro, A (Author) Other; Freitas, C (Author) Other; Matos, Liliana (Author) FMDUP; Gouveia, Alexandra (Author) FCNAUP; Gomes, F (Author) Other; Silva Carvalho, JLS (Author) Other; Almeida, H (Author) Other

Journal

Title: Journal of Assisted Reproduction and Genetics

Vol. 34 No. 2

Pages: 1121-1129

ISSN: 1058-0468

Publisher: Springer Nature

Indexing

ISI Web of Knowledge - 12 Citations

Scopus - 13 Citations

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-00M-RJP

DOI: 10.1007/s10815-017-0930-6

Abstract (EN): Purpose During ovarian follicle growth, local cellular interactions are essential for oocyte quality acquisition and successful fertilization. While cumulus cells (CCs) nurture oocytes, they also deliver oocyte-secreted factors (OSFs) that activate receptors on CCs. We hypothesized that disturbance of those interactions contributes to age-related lower reproductive success in women submitted to assisted reproductive technology treatments. Methods Women aged 27-48, without recognized personal reproductive disorder, were enrolled in the study and divided in < 35- and >= 35-year-old groups. CCs collected upon follicle aspiration were processed for immunocytochemistry and RNA extraction. The expression patterns of OSF receptors BMPR2, ALK 4, ALK5, and activin receptor-like kinase (ALK6) were studied. Results Independently of age, receptors were found mostly in the cell periphery. The quantitative assay revealed that in older women, BMPR2, ALK 4, and ALK6 were all significantly decreased, whereas ALK5 was slightly increased. Conclusions Female age imparts an effect on the expression of OSF receptors in CCs. The findings indicate that reproductive aging affects the local regulation of signaling pathways mediated by BMPR2, ALK6, and ALK4 receptor activation, suggesting their joint involvement.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific

No. of pages: 9