Human ovarian theca-derived multipotent stem cells have the potential to differentiate into Oocyte-Like cells in vitro

Objective: In this study, we have examined human theca stem cells [hTSCs] in vitro differentiation capacity into human oocyte like cells [hOLCs]

Materials and Methods: In this interventional experiment study, hTSCs were isolated from the theca layer of small antral follicles [3-5 mm in size]. Isolated hTSCs were expanded and cultured in differentiation medium, containing 5% human follicular fluid, for 50 days. Gene expressions of PRDM1, PRDM14, VASA, DAZL, OCT4, ZP1, 2, 3 GDF9, SCP3 and DMC1 were evaluated by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction [qRT-PCR] on days 0, 18, and 25 after monoculture as well as one week after co-culture with human granulosa cells [hGCs]. In addition, GDF9, OCT4, DAZL, VASA, and ZP3 proteins were immune-localized in oocyte-like structures

Results: After 16-18 days, the color of the medium became acidic. After 25 days, the cells started to differentiate into round-shaped cells [20-25 ìm diameter]. One week after co-culturing with hGCs, the size of the round cells increased 60 to70 ìm and convert to hOLCs. However, these growing cells expressed some primordial germ cell [PGC]- and germ cell genes [PRDM1, PRDM14, VASA, DAZL, and OCT4] as well as oocyte specific genes [ZP1, 2, 3 and GDF9], and meiotic-specific markers [SCP3 and DMC1]. In addition, GDF9, OCT4, DAZL, VASA, and ZP3 proteins were present in hOLCs

Conclusion: To sum up, hTSCs have the ability to differentiate into hOLCs. This introduced model paved the way for further in vitro studies of the exact mechanisms behind germ cell formation and differentiation. However, the functionality of hOLCs needs further investigation

Satellite cells contribution to exercise mediated muscle hypertrophy and repair

Satellite cells [SCs] are the most abundant skeletal muscle stem cells. They are widely recognized for their contributions to maintenance of muscle mass, regeneration and hypertrophy during the human life span. These cells are good candidates for cell therapy due to their self-renewal capabilities and presence in an undifferentiated form. Presently, a significant gap exists between our knowledge of SCs behavior and their application as a means for human skeletal muscle tissue repair and regeneration. Both physiological and pathological stimuli potentially affect SCs activation, proliferation, and terminal differentiation - the former category being the focus of this article. Activation of SCs occurs following exercise, post-training micro-injuries, and electrical stimulation. Exercise, as a potent and natural stimulus, is at the center of numerous studies on SC activation and relevant fields. According to research, different exercise modalities end with various effects. This review article attempts to picture the state of the art of the SCs life span and their engagement in muscle regeneration and hypertrophy in exercise

Effect of Beta Mercaptaethanol with and without BSO [DL-Buthionine Sulfoximine] on Resumption of Meisosis, in vitro maturation and Embryo development of immature mouse oocytes

The purpose of this study was to evaluated the effect of beta-mercaptoethanol on resumption of meiosis, in vitro maturation of immature mouse oocytes and resulting embryo development with and without BSO [DL-Buthionine sulfoximine] Material and Germinal vesicle [GV] were recovered from 6-8 weeks old NMRI ovaries and cultured in maturation medium in MEMalpha supplemented with 7.5IU/ml hCG, 100mIU/ml rhFSH, 5% FCS [control group] and adding 100 micro m beta-mercaptoethanol [group 1] or with 5mM BSO + 100 micro m beta-mercaptoethanol [group 2] for 24h. The matured oocytes then were fertilized and cultured for 5 days. Fertilization and development were accomplished in T6 medium.The percentage of GV oocytes reaching to metaphase I [or undergo GVBD] were 78.5%, 85%, 86% in control group, group 1 and group 2 respectively, that no significant difference was detected between groups. The proportion of oocytes that progressed to the metaphase II [MII] stage was minimum within 5mM BSO group [group 2] and maximum within beta-mercaptoetanol group [group 1] with significant difference comparing with control and each other [P<=0.05]. The percentage of embryos reaching to morula stage within beta-mercaptoetanol group was significantly higher than the control group [5% and 12.2% respectively]. None of oocytes treated with BSO could pass the 8 cell stage. beta-mercaptoetanol enhances IVM and improves embryo development. While adding BSO into the maturation medium even with beta-mercaptoetanol decreases maturation and declines the embryo development