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Journal of Assisted Reproduction and Genetics
Published in: Journal of Assisted Reproduction and Genetics 9/2017

01-09-2017 | Reproductive Physiology and Disease

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

Authors: A. Ribeiro, C. Freitas, L. Matos, A. Gouveia, F. Gomes, J. L. Silva Carvalho, H. Almeida

Published in: Journal of Assisted Reproduction and Genetics | Issue 9/2017

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Abstract

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.
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Metadata
Title
Age-related expression of TGF beta family receptors in human cumulus oophorus cells
Authors
A. Ribeiro
C. Freitas
L. Matos
A. Gouveia
F. Gomes
J. L. Silva Carvalho
H. Almeida
Publication date
01-09-2017
Publisher
Springer US
Published in
Journal of Assisted Reproduction and Genetics / Issue 9/2017
Print ISSN: 1058-0468
Electronic ISSN: 1573-7330
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s10815-017-0930-6

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