The Ovary Structure in Terrestrial Parasitengona Mites: The Case of Trombidiidae (Acariformes: Parasitengona).

Species of mites (Chelicerata: Arachnida) show a great variety of structures of the female gonads. In both evolutionary lines, Acariformes and Parasitiformes, the panoistic ovary, in which all germline cysts differentiate into oocytes, and the meroistic ovary, in which the oocytes grow supported by the nurse cells, have been documented. A less pronounced variation in the gonad structure could be expected at lower systematic levels, hence, we ask about the degree of differences within the family that is subordinate to Acariformes and represents the cohort Parasitengona. Based on the members of Trombidiidae (Acariformes: Trombidiformes, Parasitengona, Trombidioidea), we test the hypothesis that the general ovary type is constant at the family level. Our previous research on the female gonad in Allothrombium fuliginosum revealed that the meroistic ovary occurs in these mites. Here, we proceed with a detailed insight into the ovary structure in A. fuliginosum and examine the structure of the female gonad in other members of Trombidiidae, focusing on the following representatives of its nominotypical genus Trombidium: Trombidium brevimanum, Trombidium holosericeum, Trombidium heterotrichum, and Trombidium latum. For all species, studied with light, fluorescence, and transmission electron microscopy, we could confirm the presence of the meroistic ovary that is highly similar with respect to general architecture. The germline cysts show similarities in general morphology and the mode of germline cell differentiation; they consist of a few nurse cells and one oocyte. The connection between the nurse cells and oocytes is maintained by trophic cords that serve for the transport of organelles and macromolecules. Our results confirm the constancy of the structure of the female gonad at the intrageneric level and provide further support for the hypothesis on the lack of differences at the intrafamily level.

Contribution of the cadaveric recirculation system in the anatomical study of lymphatic drainage of the ovary: applications in the management of ovarian cancer.

PURPOSE: The present knowledge about lymphatic drainage of the ovary is based on carcinological studies, but it has only rarely been studied under physiological conditions. However, it is one of the preferential routes of dissemination in ovarian cancer, and understanding it is therefore vital for optimal carcinological management.Our purpose was to evaluate the feasibility of an innovative technique to study the lymphatic drainage territories of the ovary using a recirculation module on the cadaveric model. METHODS: We injected patent blue into the cortex of twenty "revascularised" cadaver ovaries with the Simlife recirculation model. We observed the migration of the dye live and described the drainage territories of each ovary. RESULTS: We observed a staining of the lymphatic vessels and migration of the dye in all the subjects, systematically ipsilateral to the injected ovary. We identified a staining of the lumbo-aortic territory in 65% of cases, with a preferential lateral-caval involvement (60%) for the right ovary and lateral-aortic territory (40%) for the left ovary. A common iliac involvement was observed in only 10% of cases. In 57% of cases, the staining of the lumbo-aortic territory was associated with a staining of the suspensory ligament. The pelvic territory was involved in 50% of cases, with an external iliac staining in 25% of cases and internal in 20%. CONCLUSION: Our study provides for a better understanding of lymphatic drainage of the ovary using a new detection method, and allows the possibility of improving the teaching for operators with a realistic model. Continuation of this work could lead to considering more targeted and thus less morbid lymph node sampling for lymph node staging in early-stage ovarian cancer.

[Individual hormonal profiles of blood progesterone and estradiol-17ß during the course of a reproductive cycle in mares]. / Individueller Konzentrationsverlauf von Progesteron und Östradiol-17ß im Blut bei Stuten während des Zyklus.

OBJECT AND AIM: This study presents the individual course of estradiol-17ß and progesterone concentrations in blood during the reproductive cycle in mares in order to point out physiological differences between individual animals and to aid in the interpretation of hormone values. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Concentrations of estradiol-17ß and progesterone were determined in seven mares over the course of their cycle. One mare was excluded from the study due to a physiologically deviating cycle. In addition, the mares' ovaries were examined via ultrasound on a daily basis in order to match the hormone values to morphological changes of the ovaries. RESULTS: In some cases, the mares showed considerable individual differences in their hormone concentrations, which also differed from the published comparative values in the literature. For example, two mares showed progesterone levels above basal levels at the time of ovulation. The postovulatory progesterone concentrations of the mares are characterized by marked fluctuations, which makes it difficult to provide reference values in the different sections of the corpus luteum phase. The length of the plateau phases averaged 12.3±1.5 days. The mare with double ovulation showed the highest progesterone concentrations. CONCLUSION: The measurement of plasma progesterone levels in mares should be interpreted only in the context of other test results. The very wide variation in estradiol-17ß concentrations makes it questionable whether the determination of this hormone value is of diagnostic value. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: When interpreting steroid hormone values in the ingravid cycle of a mare, the individual concentration courses must be taken into consideration, as they may deviate significantly from the published reference values.

Ovary micromorphology in hormogastrid earthworms with a particular emphasis on the organization of the germline cysts.

There is a gap in our knowledge of microorganization and the functioning of ovaries in earthworms (Crassiclitellata) and allied taxa. Recent analyses of ovaries in microdriles and leech-like taxa revealed that they are composed of syncytial germline cysts accompanied by somatic cells. Although the pattern of cyst organization is conserved across Clitellata - each cell is connected via one intercellular bridge (ring canal) to the central and anuclear cytoplasmic mass termed the cytophore - this system shows high evolutionary plasticity. In Crassiclitellata, only the gross morphology of ovaries and their segmental localization is well known, whereas ultrastructural data are limited to lumbricids like Dendrobaena veneta. Here we present the first report about ovarian histology and ultrastructure in Hormogastridae, a small family of earthworms inhabiting the western parts of the Mediterranean sea basin. We analyzed three species from three different genera and showed that the pattern of ovary organization is the same within this taxon. Ovaries are cone-like, with a broad part connected to the septum and a narrow distal end forming an egg string. Ovaries are composed of numerous cysts uniting a small number of cells, eight in Carpetania matritensis. There is a gradient of cysts development along the long ovary axis, and three zones can be distinguished. In zone I, cysts develop in complete synchrony and unite oogonia and early meiotic cells (till diplotene). Then (zone II), the synchrony is lost, and one cell (prospective oocyte) grows faster than the rest (prospective nurse cells). In zone III, oocytes pass the growth phase and gather nutrients; at this time, their contact with the cytophore is lost. Nurse cells grow slightly, eventually die via apoptosis, and are removed by coelomocytes. The most characteristic feature of hormogastrid germ cysts is the inconspicuous cytophore in the form of thread-like thin cytoplasmic strands (reticular cytophore). We found that the ovary organization in studied hormogastrids is very similar to that described for D. veneta and propose the term "Dendrobaena" type of ovaries. We expect the same microorganization of ovaries will be found in other hormogastrids and lumbricids.

Histomorphological changes between short and long days in ovary guanacos (Lama guanicoe).

This is the first morpho-histological comparison of guanaco ovaries between reproductive (long-days) and non-reproductive (short-days) seasons, and oestrogen receptor-alpha (ERα) and beta (ERß) detection. Different stages of follicle development were found in the cortical area, but no corpus luteum was detected. The size and frequency of antral follicles and large atretic follicles were higher in long-day ovaries than short-days, consistent with ovarian activity in this season. Differential expression of ERα and ERß was observed in follicles at different stages of development between short and long days. These data reveal histological and molecular differences between reproductive and non-reproductive seasons of guanaco ovaries.

How to stay attached-Formation of the ricefish plug and changes of internal reproductive structures in the pelvic brooding ricefish, Oryzias eversi Herder et al. (2012) (Beloniformes: Adrianichthyidae).

Teleost fishes show an enormous diversity of parental care, ranging from no care to viviparity with maternal provisioning of embryos. External brooders carry their developing eggs attached to their bodies. This requires the formation of novel morphological structures to support attachment. The pelvic brooding ricefish Oryzias eversi evolved such a structure, called the "plug." The plug anchors attaching filaments from the fertilized eggs inside the female reproductive system, allowing the female to carry the embryos until hatching. Using histological sections and µ-computed tomography scanning, we show that the plug is formed by several types of interstitial cells, blood capillaries, and collagen fibrils that encapsulate the end of the attaching filaments in the anterior part of the gonoduct. Even 15 days after the loss of the protruding attaching filaments, the plug remains. In addition, the developed plug contains multinucleated giant cells that are derived from fusing macrophages. We thus hypothesize that the ricefish plug, which is vital for egg attachment in O. eversi, evolved due to an inflammatory reaction. We assume that it forms similar to a foreign body granuloma, as a reaction to irritation or injury of the gonoduct epithelium by the attaching filaments. Our study further corroborates that pelvic brooding entails a complex set of adaptations to prolonged egg-carrying in the female reproductive system. During brooding, for instance, ovulation in the ovary is suppressed and the anterior part of the gonoduct is characterized by an intricate, recessed folding.

Ovary micromorphology and oogenesis in a rhyacodriline oligochaete (Clitellata: Naididae, Rhyacodrilinae).

The main goal of the article is to describe the ovary organization and oogenesis in Peristodrilus montanus, an aquatic oligochaete of the subfamily Rhyacodrilinae. The presented analysis will not only enrich the knowledge about how eggs are formed but, because of the suggested conservatism of ovary organization in clitellate annelids, can contribute to disentangling the complex phylogenetic relationships of the rhyacodrilines within Naididae. The paired, conically shaped ovaries are located in segment XI. They are composed of a dozen or so syncytial germ-line cysts, which are associated with somatic cells. Each germ cell in a cyst has one intercellular bridge that joins it to a central and anuclear cytoplasmic mass, the cytophore. This pattern of cyst organization is typical for all clitellates that have been studied to date. Initially, the germ cells in a cyst undergo a synchronous development, however, there is no synchrony between cysts, and therefore there is a developmental gradient (oogonia, pre-diplotene germ cells, germ cells in diplotene) of oogenesis along the long ovary axis. The cysts are composed of a maximum of 32 cells. Cysts with cells in diplotene detach from the ovaries and the extraovarian phase of oogenesis begins. The developmental synchrony is lost, one cell (an oocyte) per cyst starts to gather cell components and yolk and grows considerably. The remaining cells grow to some extent and function as nurse cells. Like in other microdriles, P. montanus oocytes are rich in yolk; other features of oogenesis are also similar to those that are known from other microdrile taxa. The system of ovary organization found in the studied species is broadly similar to the corresponding features known from Naidinae and Phreodrilidae and, to some extent, in Enchytraeidae. However, this system is different from the one that is known in Tubificinae, Limnodriloidinae and Branchiurinae.

Yogurt Enriched with Inulin Ameliorated Reproductive Functions and Regulated Gut Microbiota in Dehydroepiandrosterone-Induced Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Mice.

The effects of synbiotic yogurt supplemented with inulin on the pathological manifestations and gut microbiota-bile acid axis were investigated using a dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA)-induced polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) mice model. Female C57BL/6J mice were injected subcutaneously with DHEA at a dose of 6 mg/100 g BW for 20 days to establish a PCOS mouse model. Then, the PCOS mice were treated with yogurt containing inulin (6% w/w) at 15 mL/kg BW for 24 days. Results showed that supplementation of synbiotic yogurt enriched with inulin to PCOS mice decreased the body weight gain, improved estrus cycles and ovary morphology, and reduced the levels of luteinizing hormone while increasing the levels of follicle-stimulating hormone and interleukin-22 in serum. At the genus level, synbiotic yogurt increased the relative abundance of Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, and Akkermansia. PICRUSt analysis indicated that KEGG pathways including bile acid biosynthesis were changed after inulin-enriched synbiotic yogurt supplementation. Synbiotic yogurt enriched with inulin also modulated the bile acid profiles. In conclusion, inulin-enriched synbiotic yogurt alleviated reproductive dysfunction and modulated gut microbiota and bile acid profiles in PCOS mice.

Photoperiodic modulation of ovarian metabolic, survival, proliferation and gap junction markers in adult golden hamster, Mesocricetus auratus.

Female reproductive physiology is greatly dependent on tight regulation of metabolic and survival factors. Photoperiod regulates female reproductive rhythms but very less information exists explaining whether photoperiod could modulate thyroid hormone homeostasis, metabolic/energy parameters along with survival, proliferation and gap junction proteins in the ovary of a long-day breeder, Mesocricetus auratus. Adult female hamsters were exposed to different photoperiodic regimes i.e., critical photoperiod (CP; 12.5L:11.5D), short photoperiod (SP; 8L:16D) and long photoperiod (LP; 16L:8D) for 12 weeks. LP upregulated thyroidal and gonadal activity as apparent by histoarchitecture, thyroid hormone profile [triiodothyronine (T3), thyroxin (T4) and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH)], luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), estradiol (E2) and progesterone (P4) levels when compared with SP exposed hamsters. Further, LP increased thyroid hormone receptor-α/deiodinase-2 (TRα/Dio-2), estrogen receptor-α (ERα)/aromatase and insulin receptor/glucose transporter-4 (IR/GLUT-4) expressions in ovary. Interestingly, ovarian sirtuin-1 (SIRT-1) expression was also upregulated under LP condition along with cell proliferation (proliferating cell nuclear antigen or PCNA), survival (B cell lymphoma-2 or Bcl-2) and gap junction (connexin-43) markers when compared to SP exposed hamsters. We also noted elevated levels of circulatory leptin, insulin along with melatonin and its receptor (MT-1) in ovary under SP condition. Thus, we suggest that photoperiod plays a vital role in regulation of thyroid and reproductive hormone homeostasis along with key metabolic and survival markers in the ovary of adult golden hamsters, M. auratus providing further insight into the regulation of female reproductive seasonality in a long-day breeder.

Los términos corpus rubrum, corpus luteum y corpus albicans en terminologia anatomica del ovario / The terms rubrum, luteum and albicans in terminologia anatomica of the ovary

RESUMEN: El objetivo del presente artículo fue revisar la etimología de los términos Corpus rubrum, Corpus luteum y Corpus albicans, identificar si la forma de nombrarlos en las diferentes nóminas y terminologías internacionales están acorde a las sugerencias de la FIPAT y, analizar y reflexionar respecto de la pertinencia de estos términos en la Terminologia Anatomica. Se buscó en primer lugar el significado de las raíces latinas de los términos: Corpus rubrum, Corpus luteum y Corpus albicans, en el Diccionario de la Real Academia de la Lengua, última actualización; en el Diccionario Términos Médicos de la Real Academia Nacional de Medicina en España y en el Diccionario Vox, Español Latín. Indagamos en la historia para conocer desde cuando se utilizan estos términos, así como la revisión de las diferentes nomenclaturas, nóminas y terminologías anatómicas, histológicas y embriológicas, desde 1955 hasta la fecha. La búsqueda reportó que estos adjetivos latinos deberían traducirse al español de la siguiente manera: rubrum como rojo; luteum como amarillo y albicans como albicante que significa blanquear, por lo que la traducción correcta debiera ser: Cuerpo rojo, Cuerpo amarillo y Cuerpo albicante o blanco del ovario, estructuras transitorias y funcionales. Los términos Corpus rubrum, Corpus luteum y Corpus albicans que identifican estructuras del ovario en Terminologia Anatomica y Terminologia Histologica deberían ser revisados, puesto que son estructuras transitorias y su nombre sólo indica el color que adquieren en el momento funcional y es referente a los cambios que presenta la misma estructura.

SUMMARY: The aim of this article was to review the etymology of the terms Corpus rubrum, Corpus luteum and Corpus albicans, to identify if the way of naming them in the different lists and international terminologies are in accordance with the FIPAT suggestions and to analyze and reflect on the relevance of these terms in the Terminologia Anatomica. Firstly, the meaning of the Latin roots of the terms: Corpus rubrum, Corpus luteum and Corpus albicans were searched in the dictionaries: of the Royal Academy of Language, latest update; of the Medical Terms of the Royal National Academy of Medicine in Spain; in the Vox dictionary, Spanish Latin. Then we investigate the history to know since when these terms are used, as well as the review of the different anatomical, histological and embryological lists and terminologies from 1955 to date. The search reported that these Latin adjectives should be translated as follows: rubrum as red; luteum as yellow and albicans as albicante which means to whiten, therefore, the correct translation should be: Red body, Yellow body and Albicans or white body of the ovary, they are also transitory and functional structures. The terms Corpus rubrum, Corpus luteum and Corpus albicans that identify ovarian structures in the Terminologia Anatomica and Terminologia Histologica should be reviewed since they are transitory structures and their name only indicates the color they acquire at the functional moment and refers to the changes that the same structure presents.

A blueprint of the topology and mechanics of the human ovary for next-generation bioengineering and diagnosis.

Although the first dissection of the human ovary dates back to the 17th century, the biophysical characteristics of the ovarian cell microenvironment are still poorly understood. However, this information is vital to deciphering cellular processes such as proliferation, morphology and differentiation, as well as pathologies like tumor progression, as demonstrated in other biological tissues. Here, we provide the first readout of human ovarian fiber morphology, interstitial and perifollicular fiber orientation, pore geometry, topography and surface roughness, and elastic and viscoelastic properties. By determining differences between healthy prepubertal, reproductive-age, and menopausal ovarian tissue, we unravel and elucidate a unique biophysical phenotype of reproductive-age tissue, bridging biophysics and female fertility. While these data enable to design of more biomimetic scaffolds for the tissue-engineered ovary, our analysis pipeline is applicable for the characterization of other organs in physiological or pathological states to reveal their biophysical markers or design their bioinspired analogs.

Mapping of endometriosis in patients with unilateral endometrioma.

ABSTRACT: To map the distribution of the sites most affected by endometriosis in patients with unilateral ovarian endometriomas.A descriptive case series of 84 patients with unilateral endometriomas undergoing laparoscopy for the treatment of endometriosis. To evaluate the distribution of the sites of endometriosis lesions, the peritoneal compartments were divided into 5 zones: zone 1/the anterior compartment, including the anterior uterine serosa, vesicouterine fold, round ligament, and bladder; zone 2/the lateral compartment, including the left and right ovary, ovarian fossa, tubes, mesosalpinx, uterosacral ligaments, parametrium, and the ureter; zone 3/the posterior compartment, including posterior uterine serosa, the pouch of Douglas, posterior vaginal fornix, and bowel; zone 4 consisting of the abdominal wall; and zone 5 consisting of the diaphragm.Of the 5 zones evaluated, the lateral compartment (zone 2) was the most affected, with 60.7% of the patients having dense adhesions around the left ovarian fossa and 57.1% around the right ovarian fossa. The ovarian endometriomas were more commonly found on the left side (54.8%) compared to the right (45.2%). In the posterior compartment (zone 3), the posterior cul-de-sac was obliterated in 51.2% of the patients. In the anterior compartment (zone 1), there were lesions in the vesicouterine fold in 30.9% of the patients and in the bladder in 19%. Lesions were found in the abdominal wall (zone 4) and diaphragm (zone 5) in 21.4% and 10.7% of patients, respectively.Unilateral endometriomas are important markers of the severity of endometriosis.

Comparison of age-related anti Müllerian hormone, inhibin-b levels and follicle reserve in rat ovarium / Comparación de la hormona anti-mülleriana relacionada con la edad, los niveles de inhibina-b y la reserva folicular en el ovario de rata

SUMMARY: Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) and Inhibin B (INHB) in the glycoprotein structure are members of the transforming growth factor β family and expressed by granulosa cells from puberty. AMH is a factor that increases the life span of small developing follicles. For this reason, it is widely used to determine the ovarian reserve and age. Inhibin-B secreted from granulosa cells plays a role in regulation of the Follicle Stimulating Factor (FSH) and determination of the follicle diameter. There are few studies on the effect of these two age-related hormones on ovarian histology in rats. In this study, AMH and INHB expression in ovarian tissues of female rats of different age groups, their relationship with ovarian structure and folliculogenesis were examined histologically and biochemically. Wistar Albino rats were used in the study and a total of 3 groups were formed. The ovaries of rats in the pre-oestrous period were collected, and follicle count was performed on tissue sections in batches. Expression of AMH in the follicles was identified immunohistochemically. In serum, AMH and INHB levels were assessed by ELISA method and their significance was evaluated statistically. Results from light microscopic examination determined that AMH was expressed from the granulosa cells of developing follicles. INHB expression during the prepubertal period and AMH had a protective effect on the ovarian reserve and the number of developing follicles, respectively.

RESUMEN: La hormona antimülleriana (AMH) y la inhibina B (INHB) en la estructura de la glicoproteína son miembros de la familia del factor de crecimiento transformante β y se expresan en las células de la granulosa desde la pubertad. La AMH es un factor que aumenta la vida útil de los pequeños folículos en desarrollo. Por este motivo, se utiliza frecuentemente para determinar la reserva ovárica y la edad. La inhibina B secretada por las células de la granulosa tiene un rol en la regulación del factor estimulante de (FSH) y en la determinación del diámetro del folículo. Hay pocos estudios sobre el efecto de estas dos hormonas relacionadas con la edad en la histología ovárica en ratas. Se examinaron histológica y bioquímicamente la expresión de AMH e INHB en tejidos ováricos de ratas hembras de diferentes grupos de edad, su relación con la estructura ovárica y la foliculogénesis. Se utilizaron ratas Wistar Albino en el estudio y se formaron 3 grupos. En los ovarios de ratas en el período preestro se realizó el recuento de folículos en secciones de tejido. La expresión de AMH en los folículos se identificó inmunohistoquímicamente. En suero, los niveles de AMH e INHB se evaluaron mediante el método ELISA y su importancia se evaluó estadísticamente. Los resultados del examen con microscopio óptico determinaron que la AMH se expresaba a partir de las células de la granulosa de los folículos en desarrollo. La expresión de INHB durante el período prepuberal y AMH tuvo un efecto protector sobre la reserva ovárica y el número de folículos en desarrollo, respectivamente.

Evaluation of reproductive traits and ovarian and uterine morphology of sows with different genotypes for the estrogen receptor, prolactin receptor, and follicle-stimulating hormone subunit beta genes.

The purpose of this study was to analyze the morpho-functional features of the ovaries and uterus of sows with different genotypes for the estrogen receptor (ESR), prolactin receptor (PRLR), and follicle-stimulating hormone subunit beta (FSHß) genes associated with reproductive traits. Healthy Large White sows were studied. The genotypic status of the ESR, PRLR, and FSHß genes was detected by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism. The structure of the ovaries and uterus was studied using quantitative assessment of organs and histological research. Sows with the ESR BB genotype significantly exceeded animals with the ESR AA genotype in milk yield (by 0.3 kg) and in the number of piglets at birth (by 0.9 animals) and at weaning (by 0.7 animals). Sows with the ESR AB genotype were midway between those with ESR BB and ESR AA genotypes in terms of these reproductive traits. Animals with the PRLR AA genotype significantly exceeded those with the PRLR BB genotype in the number of piglets born (P < 0.05); the differences in litter weight at birth were not significant. Compared to other genotypes, sows with genotypes ESR BB (P < 0.05) and PRLR AA (AB) (P < 0.05) had larger uteruses and more yellow bodies, tertiary follicles, and primordial follicles in their ovaries. Animals with the FSHß BB genotype significantly exceeded animals with the FSHß AB genotype in the length of uterus by 21 cm (P < 0.05).

Le but de cette étude était d'analyser les caractéristiques morpho-fonctionnelles des ovaires et de l'utérus de truies avec différents génotypes pour les gènes du récepteur des oestrogènes (ESR), du récepteur de la prolactine (PRLR) et de la sous-unité bêta de l'hormone folliculostimulante (FSHß) associés à des traits de reproduction. Des truies Large White en bonne santé ont été étudiées. Le statut génotypique des gènes ESR, PRLR et FSHß a été détecté par polymorphisme de la longueur des fragments de restriction par amplification en chaîne par la polymérase. La structure des ovaires et de l'utérus a été étudiée en utilisant une évaluation quantitative des organes et une recherche histologique.Les truies avec le génotype ESR BB dépassaient significativement les animaux avec le génotype ESR AA en rendement laitier (de 0,3 kg) et en nombre de porcelets à la naissance (de 0,9 animal) et au sevrage (de 0,7 animal). Les truies avec le génotype ESR AB étaient à mi-chemin entre celles avec les génotypes ESR BB et ESR AA en termes de ces traits de reproduction. Les animaux avec le génotype PRLR AA dépassaient significativement ceux avec le génotype PRLR BB dans le nombre de porcelets nés (P < 0,05); les différences de poids des portées à la naissance n'étaient pas significatives. Comparativement aux autres génotypes, les truies avec les génotypes ESR BB (P < 0,05) et PRLR AA (AB) (P < 0,05) avaient des utérus plus gros et plus de corps jaunes, de follicules tertiaires et de follicules primordiaux dans leurs ovaires. Les animaux avec le génotype FSHß BB dépassaient significativement les animaux avec le génotype FSHß AB pour la longueur de l'utérus de 21 cm (P < 0,05).(Traduit par Docteur Serge Messier).

Relation of gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata) seasonal reproductive activity to hematology, serum biochemistry, histopathology, and Brdt gene expression.

This study aimed to find the relation of Sparus aurata (gilthead seabream) reproductive activities to some blood parameters as complete blood count, liver enzymes, some hormones related to reproduction process and microscopic findings of gonads, as well as expression of Bromodomain testis-specific gene. Eighty-eight sexually mature seabream were collected and investigated through the four seasons. Red blood cells were higher in autumn and spring. Hemoglobin was high in summer, MCV highest values ​​were seen in winter and summer, while MCHC was highest in summer. The values ​​of white blood cells increased significantly in spring, summer, and autumn compared with winter. The highest value of lymphocytes was recorded in spring and autumn. Eosinophil was recorded the highest value in the spring. The highest value of segmented neutrophils was recorded in summer. The highest value of band neutrophil was recorded in summer and winter. Alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase showed high values in the winter. Luteinizing hormone (LH) was higher in females, males, and hermaphrodites during winter. Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) was higher in females during spring. The highest value of estradiol 17-ß and progesterone was recorded in summer. The highest value of total testosterone was recorded in spring. Microscopically, ovaries were immature and inactive during spring and summer but well developed in autumn and winter. During spring and summer, testes were immature and began spermatogenesis process but well developed with the appearance of spermatids and spermatozoa during autumn and winter. The expression of Brdt was higher in testes than ovary. Brdt recorded high expression in autumn and spring than in summer and winter.

Ovarian morphometrical evaluation to assess reproductive activity suppression in heavy weight finishing gilts immunized against gonadotropin-releasing hormone.

It is known that immunizing gilts against gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) is an efficient castration method that increases their growth performance. However, it is still unknown the ovarian histophysiology outcomes after this procedure. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate in detail, using morphological and morphometrical methods, changes in the ovarian structure that result in the suppression of ovarian activity, as well as to gain knowledge on the ovarian structure to assist in ovarian histopathological diagnoses. Seventy-two pre-pubertal finishing gilts were allocated to two experimental groups: immunized (IC; n = 36; gilts which received two injections of 2 mL of Vivax® - one at 15 and another at 19 weeks of age) and control (CT; n = 36, females which received two saline injections following the same protocol). All gilts were euthanized at 25 weeks of age and the ovaries of 5 gilts from each experimental group collected for biometrical and histomorphometrical analysis. IC gilts showed higher body weights, but smaller ovaries compared to CT females. In addition, the number of small follicles (≤ 2 mm) on the ovarian surface was higher, while no large follicles (> 6 mm) nor corpora lutea were found in the ovaries of IC gilts. Histomorphometrical analysis revealed that IC females showed higher numbers of quiescent and active primordial, primary, pre-antral and final stage atretic follicles. Moreover, follicle size, antrum diameter and area of the granulosa layer from mature follicles were smaller in IC gilts. Collectively, these results demonstrate that the efficacy of immunization against GnRH is related to the blockage of follicular recruitment and selection, thus suppressing reproductive activity in finishing gilts.

Histomorphology and gene expression profiles during early ovarian folliculogenesis in duck and goose.

In contrast to the later stages of follicle development, little is known about the characteristics and mechanisms associated with early folliculogenesis in avian species. The objectives of the present study were to examine and compare the histomorphological and molecular changes of primordial, primary, and secondary follicles from duck and goose ovaries during the first 6 post-hatching week. Morphological analysis showed that the length and width of both duck and goose ovaries increased steadily during weeks 1 to 5 but increased acutely at week 6, whereas a greater increment was observed in the ovarian length of ducks than that of geese during weeks 4 to 5. Furthermore, smaller diameters of the 3 categories of follicles were observed in ducks than those in geese at the first appearance, but they reached a similar size at week 6. More importantly, secondary follicles were found in the ovaries of ducks 1 wk earlier than in those of geese. These results indicated a more rapid growth rate for ovarian follicles in ducks than in geese during early post-hatching development. At the molecular level, it was found that the mRNAs encoding follicle stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR), anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), B-cell leukemia/lymphoma 2, and cysteine-dependent aspartate specific protease 3 (CASPASE3) were ubiquitously expressed in all ovarian follicles of ducks and geese with different expression profiles in each follicular category during the first 6 post-hatching week. Notably, transcript levels of FSHR, AMH, and CASPASE3 changed differently between ducks and geese during weeks 5 to 6, which was postulated to be one of the mechanisms inducing more rapid growth of ovarian follicles in ducks rather than in geese. In conclusion, our results revealed, for the first time, differences in early folliculogenesis, including the rate of growth of each follicular category and the timing of transition of primary to secondary follicles, between ducks and geese, and these differences could result from different expression profiles of FSHR, AMH, and CASPASE3 during early post-hatching development.

Morphological changes in mouse ovary due to hormonal hypersecretion and matrix metalloproteinase -2 activity.

We analyzed whether aberrant gonadotropin secretion affects the morphological remodeling of murine ovarian tissues facilitated by activated matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) enzymes. Six mice were intraperitoneally injected with 5 IU of pregnant mare serum gonadotropin (PMSG) or human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) every two days after estrus synchronization. Morphology and expression of various MMPs were assessed following the successful induction of hormonal secretion in these tissues. HCG treatment, but not PMSG treatment, resulted in the expanded production of granulose second follicular cells. In addition, the number of developing follicular cells in the HCG group increased compared with that in the PMSG group. Ovarian diameters were also very small in the PMSG group. Immunohistochemistry revealed decreased MMP-2 protein activity in the HCG group and increased MMP-2 activity in the PMSG group. Activity was particularly high in theca and granulose cells of the PMSG group, but only partial activity was observed in the theca cells of the HCG group. Vascular endothelial growth factor activity was increased in both the external and internal theca cell walls in the PMSG group while the HCG group showed high overall expression of this protein in the internal theca cells. These data indicate that follicular cell activity and remodeling of the ovaries differ based on the type of secretory hormone signals they receive. Inappropriate gonadotropin secretion may induce functional changes in the ovaries, and follicular remodeling may be facilitated by the activity of various MMPs.

Microorganization of ovaries and oogenesis of Haplotaxis sp. (Clitellata: Haplotaxidae).

Ovaries of Haplotaxis sp. were studied in active and nonactive states, that is, in a sexually mature specimen and in specimens outside of the reproductive period. Two pairs of ovaries were found in segments XI and XII. Especially in the nonactive state, they were in close contact with copulatory glands. Each ovary was composed of germ cells interconnected with syncytial cysts, which were enveloped by a layer of somatic cells. Within cysts each germ cell had one ring canal connecting it to the common anuclear cytoplasmic mass called a cytophore. During oogenesis clustering germ cells differentiated into nurse cells and oocytes; thus, the oogenesis was recognized as meroistic. Vitellogenic oocytes were detached from the ovaries and continued yolk absorption within the body cavity. Because recent studies have shown the variety of ovaries and germ line cyst organization in clitellates and suggest their evolutionary conservatism at the family or subfamily level, the data presented here can be valid in understanding the phylogenetic relationships among Clitellata. In this context, ovaries found in Haplotaxis sp. resembled those of the "Tubifex" type. "Tubifex" ovaries are characteristic for numerous microdrile taxa (tubificines, limnodriloidines, propappids, lumbriculids, and leech-like branchiobdellids) and can be regarded as the primary character for these Clitellata in which germ-line cysts are formed during early oogenesis. As the family Haplotaxidae is currently considered to be paraphyletic and the species studied here belongs to Haplotaxidae sensu stricto, our results support the close relationship of Haplotaxidae sensu stricto to the clade consisting of Lumbriculidae, Branchiobdellida, and Hirudinida, in which lumbriculids are sister to the latter two.

Effects of immunization against inhibin α-subunit on ovarian structures, pregnancy rate, embryonic and fetal losses, and prolificacy rate in goats where estrus was induced during the non-breeding season.

The objectives of the study were to determine the dose-dependent effects of active immunization against inhibin α-subunit (AIINHA) on ovarian dynamics, concentrations of progesterone (P4), pregnancy rate (PR), embryonic and fetal losses (EFL), and prolificacy during the non-breeding season when there was imposing of a progestin-based treatment regimen to induce estrus in Beetal goats. Goats (n = 30) were randomly assigned into following groups: 1) saline (G-CON-0 mg; n = 10), 2) small dose (G-AIINHA-0.5 mg; n = 10), and 3) large dose (G-AIINHA-1 mg; n = 10). The primary administration of inhibin immunogen was administered at Day -48, followed by another administration at Day -20, and subsequently there was induction of estrus using a progestin based treatment regimen that included a single administration of progestin-containing sponge and PGF2α at Day -8. The sponge was removed, and GnRH was administered at Day -3 followed by breeding (Day 0) at standing estrus. Results indicated mean diameter of the follicles, size of pre-ovulatory follicles and corpora lutea, and post-breeding P4 concentrations were greater (P < 0.05) in the goat does of the G-AIINHA-0.5 than G-CON-0 group. The PR, and EFL, however, did not differ (P> 0.05) among groups, whereas prolificacy rate was greater (P = 0.04) in goat does of the G-AIINHA-0.5 than G-CON-0 groups. The data from this study indicate G-AIINHA-0.5 is the recommended dose of inhibin immunogen to enhance the reproductive performance during non-breeding season in Beetal goats when estrus is induced using a progestin-based treatment regimen.