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In vitro gametogenesis (IVG), the reconstitution of germ cell development in vitro, is an emerging stem cell-based technology with profound implications for reproductive science. Despite researchers' long-term goals for future clinical applications, little is currently known about the views of IVG held by the stakeholders potentially most affected by its introduction in humans. We conducted focus groups and interviews with 80 individuals with lived experience of infertility and/or LGBTQ+ family formation in the US, two intersecting groups of potential IVG users. Respondents expressed hope that IVG would lead to higher reproductive success than current assisted reproductive technology (ART), alleviate suffering associated with ART use, and promote greater social inclusion, while expressing concerns predominantly framed in terms of equity and safety. These findings underscore the importance of sustained engagement with stakeholders with relevant experience to anticipate the implications of IVG for research and clinical translation.

In assisted fertility protocols, in vitro culture conditions mimic physiological conditions to preserve gametes in the best conditions. After collection, oocytes are maintained in a culture medium inside the incubator until in vitro fertilization (IVF) is performed. This time outside natural and physiological conditions exposes oocytes to an oxidative stress that renders in vitro aging. It has been described that in vitro aging produces a spontaneous cortical granule (CG) release decreasing the fertilization rate of oocytes. Nevertheless, this undesirable phenomenon has not been investigated, let alone prevented. In this work, we characterized the spontaneous CG secretion in in vitro aged oocytes. Using immunofluorescence indirect, quantification, and functional assays, we showed that the expression of regulatory proteins of CG exocytosis was affected. Our results demonstrated that in vitro oocyte aging by 4 and 8 h altered the expression and localization of alpha-SNAP and reduced the expression of NSF and Complexin. These alterations were prevented by supplementing culture medium with dithiothreitol (DTT), which in addition to having a protective effect on those proteins, also had an unexpected effect on the actin cytoskeleton. Indeed, DTT addition thickened the cortical layer of fibrillar actin. Both DTT effects, together, prevented the spontaneous secretion of CG and recovered the IVF rate in in vitro aged oocytes. We propose the use of DTT in culture media to avoid the spontaneous CG secretion and to improve the success rate of IVF protocols in in vitro aged oocytes. • DTT restores the normal cortical granules density in in vitro aged oocytes • DTT has a protective effect on alpha-SNAP, NSF, and Complexin • In vitro aged oocytes respond to SrCl 2 as control oocytes in presence of DTT • DTT increases the polymerization of F-actin in the cortical region of mouse oocytes • DTT recovers the in vitro fertilization rate in in vitro aged oocytes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Long-term preservation of gametes has been identified as a tool to improve broodstock management and increase the number of juveniles produced by artificial fertilization. Paralichthys orbignyanus is an important commercial and recreational species distributed in marine and estuarine waters from Rio de Janeiro (Brazil) to the San Matías Gulf (Argentina). This work focused on studying the seminal quality of tank-reared P. orbignyanus , demonstrating that males are fluent year-round, with the highest yields at the early reproductive season. Fresh sperm exhibited good forward swimming, and samples could be refrigerated up to 48 h while retaining their motility after activation. The optimal conditions for P. orbignyanus sperm motility activation were established as 950 mOsmol/Kg and pH values between 7 and 7.9. Additionally, a well-defined protocol for semen vitrification was developed to assess the cryotolerance of this species' sperm. We successfully produced high-quality sperm samples, using two vitrification formulations containing trehalose and both z-1000 and x-1000 polymers, that can be used in a near-future in vitro embryo production program. • Captive Paralichthys orbignyanus males yield year-round semen quality. • Semen retains good motility when refrigerated up to 48 h. • Optimal conditions for sperm activation were set at 950 mOsmol and pH 7–7.9. • A novel protocol for P. orbignyanus semen vitrification is reported. • The best extender formulations showed good fertilization rates vs fresh samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SUMMARY Gametocidal (Gc) chromosomes have been widely utilized in genetic breeding due to their ability to induce chromosomal breakage and eliminate gametes that lack them. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have various functional mechanisms in regulating pollen and anther development; however, their regulatory contributions to Gc action are still unknown. Here, we identified 2824 differentially expressed lncRNAs (DE‐lncRNAs) from the anther tissues of Triticum aestivum cv. Chinese Spring (CS) and Chinese Spring‐Gc 3C chromosome monosomic addition line (CS‐3C) through sequencing. In this study, we predicted 161 target mRNAs for 145 DE‐lncRNAs, including 104 cis‐regulatory, 60 trans‐regulatory, and three both cis‐regulatory and trans‐regulatory manner. Combined with our previous miRNA sequencing data, 241 DE‐lncRNAs functioned as potential endogenous target mimics (eTMs) for 84 differentially expressed microRNAs (DE‐miRNAs, including 12 novel miRNAs). The results of transient transformation in tobacco leaves indicated that L006278 could bind to MTCONS_00006277, which encoded a calcineurin CBL‐interacting protein kinase 19‐like, and suppress its expression. Furthermore, L117735 could function as an eTM for tae‐miR9657b‐3p, and L056972 could function as an eTM for gc‐m2240‐5p. To explore the function of lncRNAs in the process of Gc action, we transformed L006278, an up‐regulated lncRNA in CS‐3C, into rice to analyze its effect on pollen fertility. Overexpression of L006278 led to a reduction in rice pollen fertility. Overall, our findings indicate that lncRNAs can contribute to the regulation of pollen fertility during the process of Gc action by regulating the expression levels of target mRNAs and acting as eTMs for certain key miRNAs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Pollen development and germination are critical for successful generation of offspring in plants, yet they are highly susceptible to heat stress (HS). However, the molecular mechanism underlying this process has not been fully elucidated. In this study, we highlight the essential roles of two mRNA capping enzymes, named Arabidopsis mRNA capping phosphatase (ARCP) 1 and 2, in regulating male and female gamete development. The transmission efficiencies of gametes carrying arcp1 arcp2 from arcp1+/− arcp2−/− and arcp1−/− arcp2+/− mutants are 30% and zero, respectively. These mutants exhibited a significant increase in misshaped pollen, with germination rates approximately half of those in wild type. ARCP1/2 exhibit RNA triphosphatase and RNA guanylyltransferase activities, which are required for proper pollen development. Through RNA‐seq analysis, genes involved in pollen development/germination and HS response were identified as downregulated genes in pollen from arcp1+/− arcp2−/− mutant. Furthermore, ARCP2 protein is degraded under HS condition, and inducing the expression of ARCP2 can increase the pollen germination rate under elevated temperature. We propose that HS triggers the degradation of mRNA capping enzymes, which in turn disrupts the transcriptome that required for pollen development and pollen germination and ultimately leads to male sterility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanotechnology and its applications have advanced significantly in recent decades, contributing to various fields, including reproduction. This study introduces a novel method to label porcine oocytes with nanoparticles (NPs) bound to oviductin (OVGP1, Ov) for use in Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ARTs). Despite promising developments, concerns about NP toxicity in gametes necessitate thorough investigation. This research aims to assess the impact of functionalized NPs (NPOv) on sperm functionality. Boar sperm were co‐incubated with NPOv for 0, 0.5 and 1 h in two media: BTS (semen dilution and conservation) and TALP (sperm capacitation and in vitro fertilization‐IVF). Sperm quality parameters (viability, motility and kinematics) showed no significant differences in TALP medium (p >.05). In BTS, although some kinetic parameters were altered, motility, progressive motility and viability remained unaffected (p >.05). Additionally, NPs presence on the zona pellucida (ZP) of oocytes did not affect sperm attachment (p >.05). In conclusion, in vitro exposure of boar sperm to OVGP1‐functionalized NPs in IVF medium or attached to the ZP surface of matured oocytes does not impair sperm functionality, including their binding ability to the ZP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anonymous gamete donation creates a specific conflict between human rights and public interests under Article 8 of the ECHR. This was first assessed in the ECtHR's landmark decision in Gauvin-Fournis and Silliau v. France of 7 September 2023. This article critically analyses this judgment, taking into account the European legal framework for anonymous gamete donation, the recommendations of the competent authorities and the previous case law of the ECtHR on the right to know one's biological origin as an integral part of one's identity that is protected under the right to private and family life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Little is known about the effects of low gravity on human gametes. The aim of this study was to analyze if fresh human sperm samples after fast gravity load changes suffered any detrimental effect in comparison to the splits maintained in Earth's gravity. Fifteen fresh samples from normozoospermic donors were analyzed. Statistically significant differences in vitality (69.7 ± 9.9 % vs 72.4 ± 9.7 %, [95 % CI: 0.002,0.07]); motile sperm concentration (23.7 ± 15.3 M/ml vs 31.5 ± 25.1 M/ml, [95 % CI: 1.03,14.65]); grade "a" sperm concentration (8.7 ± 6.5 M/ml vs 11.7 ± 9.9 M/ml, [95 % CI: 0.71,5.28]); percentage of progressive motility sperm (30 ± 12.9 % vs 36 ± 14.3 %, [95 % CI: 0.10,0.37]) and curvilinear velocity VCL: 45.7 ± 12.8 μm/s vs 47.7 ± 13.3 μm/s, [95 % CI: 0.79,3.22]) were observed. No statistical differences were observed in other sperm kinematic parameters, morphology, DNA fragmentation, apoptosis, and oxidative stress. In conclusion, even though it did not result in a total loss, heavy gravity load changes including microgravity causes a significant decrease in sperm vitality and motility suggesting that negative consequences would be even higher if the exposure were longer. The results obtained indicate that further research is really needed before Assisted Reproduction will be considered for the future human reproduction outside the Earth. • Motility and Vitality of human sperm are significantly decreased after parabolic flight including short periods of microgravity. • Curvilinear Velocity of human male gametes was particularly decreased. • No changes were found in other sperm kinematic parameters, morphology, DNA fragmentation, apoptosis and oxidative stress. • Results were found after short exposure; suggesting more negative consequences regarding human fertility in a longer time exposure. • More studies needed before Assisted Reproduction Techniques can be considered for the likelihood of Human Reproduction in Space. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The gametogenic cycle in broadcast spawning corals takes several months, with oogenesis culminating in synchronized maturation when seawater temperatures rise. Temperature is known for governing reproductive seasonality, yet little is known about how multiple stressors may affect spawning timing. The semi-enclosed lagoon of Bouraké in New Caledonia is subjected to high fluctuations in seawater temperature, pH, salinity, and oxygen, representing an ideal playground to explore possible effects of extreme environmental variability on coral gametogenesis. Here, the spawning window and fecundity metrics (i.e., colony- and polyp-level fecundity, and egg size) of Acropora tenuis, Montipora digitata, and M. stellata from Bouraké were compared with four reference sites located at variable distances from Bouraké. Results suggest that Bouraké and its nearby control site largely spawned synchronously, but there was a spawning asynchrony between Bouraké and the sites further south, in all three species. Interestingly, no reduction in the number of eggs per fecund polyp or number of fecund polyps was observed in Bouraké compared with the reference sites, in any species. However, A. tenuis and M. digitata had smaller eggs in Bouraké compared to reference sites, with possible repercussions for coral fitness. In conclusion, some reproductive traits are maintained in coral species inhabiting a highly variable environment, but smaller gametes may alter population recovery processes. Furthermore, since our data are limited to 2 yrs of observations, spawning synchronization between Bouraké and its surroundings warrant continued investigation to determine whether coral colonies from this area harbor traits that increase fitness under future climate scenarios. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In plants, in vivo haploid induction has gained increasing attention for its significant potential applications in crop breeding and genetic research. This strategy reduces the chromosome number in progeny after fertilization, enabling the rapid production of homozygous plants through double haploidization, contrasting with traditional inbreeding over successive generations. Haploidy typically initiates at the onset of seed development, with several key genes identified as paternal or maternal factors that play critical roles during meiosis, fertilization, gamete communication, and chromosome integrity maintenance. The insights gained have led to the development of efficient haploid inducer lines. However, the molecular and genetic mechanisms underlying these factors vary considerably, making it challenging to create broadly applicable haploidy induction systems for plants. In this minireview, we summarize recent discoveries and advances in paternal and maternal haploid induction factors, examining their current understanding and functionalities to further develop efficient haploid inducer systems through the application of parental factor manipulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Basic & Clinical Andrology is the property of BioMed Central and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The features of the physical environment set the stage upon which sexual selection operates, and consequently can have a significant impact on variation in realized individual fitness, and influence a population's evolutionary trajectory. This phenomenon has been explored empirically in several studies using fruit flies (Drosophila melanogaster) which have found that changing the spatial complexity of the mating environment influenced male–female interaction dynamics, (re)mating rates, and realized female fecundities. However, these studies did not explore mating patterns, which can dramatically alter the genetic composition of the next generation, and frequently only compared a single, small "simple" environment to a single larger "complex" environment. While these studies have shown that broadly changing the characteristics of the environment can have big effects on reproductive dynamics, the plasticity of this outcome to more subtle changes has not been extensively explored. Our study set out to compare patterns of mating and courtship between large- and small-bodied males and females, and female fecundities in both a simple environment and 2 distinctly different spatially complex environments. We found that realized offspring production patterns differed dramatically between all 3 environments, indicating that the effects of increasing spatial complexity on mating outcomes are sensitive to the specific type of environmental complexity. Furthermore, we observed female fecundities were higher for flies in both complex environments compared those in the simple environment, supporting its role as a mediator of sexual conflict. Together, these results show that the union of gametes within a population can be greatly influenced by the specific spatial features of the environment and that while some outcomes of increased environmental complexity are likely generalizable, other phenomena such as mating patterns and courtship rates may vary from one complex environment to another. Graphical Abstract [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Marine organisms have complex life histories. For broadcast spawners, successful continuation of the population requires their small gametes to make contact in the water column for sufficiently long periods for fertilization to occur. Anthropogenic climate change has been shown to impact fertilization success in various marine invertebrates, including sea urchins, which are key grazers in their habitats. Gamete performance of both sexes declined when exposed to elevated temperatures and/or pCO2 levels. Examples of reduced performance included slower sperm swimming speed and thinning egg jelly coat. However, such responses to climate change stress were not uniform between individuals. Such variations could serve as the basis for selection. Fertilization kinetics have long been modeled as a particle collision process. Here, we present a modified fertilization kinetics model that incorporates individual variations in performance in a more environmentally relevant regime, and which the performance of groups with different traits can be separately tracked in a mixture. Numerical simulations highlight that fertilization outcomes are influenced by changes in gamete traits as they age in sea water and the presence of competition groups (multiple dams or sires). These results highlight the importance of considering multiple individuals and at multiple time points during in vivo assays. We also applied our model to show that interspecific variation in climate stress vulnerabilities elevates the risk of hybridization. By making a numerical model open-source, we aim to help us better understand the fate of organisms in the face of climate change by enabling the community to consider the mean and variance of the response to capture adaptive potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Meiotic drivers are selfish genetic loci that can be transmitted to more than half of the viable gametes produced by a heterozygote. This biased transmission gives meiotic drivers an evolutionary advantage that can allow them to spread over generations until all members of a population carry the driver. This evolutionary power can also be exploited to modify natural populations using synthetic drivers known as "gene drives." Recently, it has become clear that natural drivers can spread within genomes to birth multicopy gene families. To understand intragenomic spread of drivers, we model the evolution of 2 or more distinct meiotic drivers in a population. We employ the wtf killer meiotic drivers from Schizosaccharomyces pombe , which are multicopy in all sequenced isolates, as models. We find that a duplicate wtf driver identical to the parent gene can spread in a population unless, or until, the original driver is fixed. When the duplicate driver diverges to be distinct from the parent gene, we find that both drivers spread to fixation under most conditions, but both drivers can be lost under some conditions. Finally, we show that stronger drivers make weaker drivers go extinct in most, but not all, polymorphic populations with absolutely linked drivers. These results reveal the strong potential for natural meiotic drive loci to duplicate and diverge within genomes. Our findings also highlight duplication potential as a factor to consider in the design of synthetic gene drives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The complex interactome crucial for successful pregnancy is constituted by the intricate network of endocrine and paracrine signaling pathways, involving gametes, embryos, and the female reproductive tract. Specifically, the oviduct exhibits distinct responses to gametes and early embryos during particular phases of the estrus cycle, a process tightly regulated by reproductive hormones. Moreover, these hormones play a pivotal role in orchestrating cyclical changes within oviductal epithelial cells. To unravel the molecular mechanisms underlying these dynamic changes, our study aimed to investigate the involvement of protein kinase A (PKA) in oviductal epithelial cells throughout the estrus cycle and in advanced pregnancy, extending our studies to oviductal epithelial cell in primary culture. By a combination of 2D-gel electrophoresis, Western blotting, and mass spectrometry, we identified 17 proteins exhibiting differential phosphorylation status mediated by PKA. Among these proteins, we successfully validated the phosphorylation status of heat shock 70 kDa protein (HSP70), aconitase 2 (ACO2), and lamin B1 (LMNB1). Our findings unequivocally demonstrate the dynamic regulation of PKA throughout the estrus cycle in oviductal epithelial cells. Also, analysis by bioinformatics tools suggest its pivotal role in mediating cyclical changes possibly through modulation of apoptotic pathways. This research sheds light on the intricate molecular mechanisms underlying reproductive processes, with implications for understanding fertility and reproductive health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Regeneration, regrowing lost and injured body parts, is an ability that generally declines with age or developmental transitions (i.e. metamorphosis, sexual maturation). Regeneration is also an energetically costly process, and trade-offs occur between regeneration and other costly processes such as growth, or sexual reproduction. Here we investigate the interplay of regeneration, reproduction, and developmental stage in the segmented worm Platynereis dumerilii. P. dumerilii can regenerate its whole posterior body axis, along with its reproductive cells, thereby having to carry out the two costly processes (somatic and germ cell regeneration) after injury. We specifically examine how developmental stage affects the success of germ cell regeneration and sexual maturation in developmentally young versus developmentally old organisms. We hypothesized that developmentally younger individuals (i.e. with gametes in early mitotic stages) will have higher regeneration success than the individuals at developmentally older stages (i.e. with gametes undergoing meiosis and maturation). Surprisingly, older amputated worms grew faster and matured earlier than younger amputees. To analyze germ cell regeneration during and after posterior regeneration, we used Hybridization Chain Reaction for the germline marker vasa. We found that regenerated worms start repopulating new segments with germ cell clusters as early as 14 days post amputation. In addition, vasa expression is observed in a wide region of newly-regenerated segments, which appears different from expression patterns during normal growth or regeneration in worms before gonial cluster expansion. [Display omitted] • Platynereis dumerilii regenerates germ cells during posterior body axis regeneration. • Worms amputated at three developmental stages were tested for fecundity. • Time to reach sexual maturation after regeneration depends on the developmental stage. • Development, regeneration, and reproduction involve stage-specific trade-offs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Research in Agricultural Sciences is the property of Ataturk University Coordinatorship of Scientific Journals and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

With a prospect to improve goat artificial insemination, this study aims to evaluate the effects of storage time, egg yolk concentration and semen washing on the rate of motile spermatozoa (spz) in Arbia breed bucks semen stored at 5 °C for 48 h. Semen was collected from three mature bucks using an artificial vagina during December 2018. The ejaculates used in this study (rate of motile sperm > 75 %) were divided into two fractions: A, and B, (unwashed and washed samples, respectively): themselves divided into three fractions, and diluted in Tris-Acid citric based extenders, containing egg yolk at 2 %, 10 % and 20 %. ANOVA test was performed using the R software version 3.3.0. The rate of motile spermatozoa was evaluated after 24 and 48 hours of storage in the refrigerator at 5 °C. It registered a significant decrease as a function of the storage time in the different extenders. It varied between 42.43 ± 9.86 % and 61.29 ± 5.44 %, after 24 hours of storage, and between 35.86 ± 13.95 %, and 55.45 ± 11.65 % after 48 hours of storage. The semen washing significantly reduced the rate of motile spermatozoa in the different extenders. Increasing the concentration of egg yolk in the extender increased the rate of motile spermatozoa, especially during the first 24 hours of storage. In conclusion, the rate of spermatozoa motility of unwashed semen stored at 5 °C is higher in extenders containing high egg-yolk concentration, and decrease according to conservation time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Effect of priming on the maturation and spawning were tested in two fish species using gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), carp pituitary homogenate (CPH) and clomiphene citrate (clomid). The fish were injected with a dose of GnRH, CPH and clomid, calibrated to contain 0.3ml/kg, 7 mg/kg and 70mg/kg respectively in three split doses (two priming doses and one final dose). Two priming doses enhanced the maturation and spawning in fish as evident from hormone assay, histology and gamete analysis. Among the inducing agents, two priming doses of GnRH showed 94% maturation and higher GSI (5.31♂;18.5♀) than CPH and clomid injected rohu. Subsequently, successful spawning recorded supported by elevated levels of FSH and LH in blood. Priming with CPH and clomid showed better maturation rate than GnRH injected Nile tilapia. The sperm count of tilapia administered with CPH and clomid was 3.7±0.72×109 and 4.1±0.86×109 respectively. The efficacy of hormonal priming in synchronising the gamete development in rohu and tilapia was further evident from the increased number of synchronised oocyte development. This study may help in developing strategies for broodstock and hatchery management of carps and tilapias. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Gracious Sea Urchin Tripneustes gratilla is a model organism for invertebrate marine animals and an economically important marine resource. This study investigated the effects of varying temperature ranges 29-30°C, 34-35°C, and 39-40°C on the reproductive capacity of T. gratilla. Under these temperature treatments, gamete viability was determined through the resazurin reduction test and quantified through resazurin absorbance at 630 nm, while fertilization and embryonic development were investigated through in vitro experiments. With increasing temperature, there was a significant decline in the viability of both sperm and egg cells. Gamete death was highest at 39-40°C followed by 34-35°C temperature ranges. Successful fertilization was highest at 29-30°C (92.26%) followed by 34-35°C (20.83%) and 39-40°C (11.05%) temperature ranges for the two batches. Normal embryonic development from 2 cells up to 2 arm echinopluteus was observed at 29-30 °C while abnormalities including apoptotic body formations, cell fragmentation, cell lysis, and embryo arrest were observed at 34-35°C and 39-40°C temperature ranges. This study confirmed the deleterious effect of increased temperature (34-40°C) on the reproductive potential of T. gratilla. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are abundant in reproductive tract fluids and serve as important mediators of paracrine communication, influencing the function of gametes. Sperm undergo development in the male reproductive tract and exert their function within the female reproductive tract, engaging in interactions with various types of EVs present throughout the reproductive system. Previous studies have demonstrated that both male and female reproductive tract EVs can impact sperm function by transferring regulatory cargoes to them. Nevertheless, inconsistencies of previous research regarding the effects of EVs on sperm function, coupled with a lack of investigation into the influence of female reproductive tract EVs on sperm fertilization, have left the true role and underlying mechanisms of reproductive tract EVs on sperm function largely unexplored. Given that pigs represent significant economic livestock and serve as an ideal biomedical model for human diseases, this review aims to provide a comprehensive summary of the current knowledge regarding reproductive tract EVs and their influence on boar sperm function, while highlighting their potential roles. We anticipate that this review will facilitate future research on reproductive tract EVs and their impact on sperm function, contributing to improved animal reproductive efficiency and advancements in the treatment of male infertility. • EVs are widely existed in the pig reproductive tract. • The reproductive tract EVs in pig could interact with sperm, and influence the sperm fertility. • The miRNAs are important messengers involved in the EVs and sperm interaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the continued expansion and commercialisation of fertility treatments, the selection and matching of donors have become more sophisticated and technologised. As part of this landscape, new form of genetic screening: ‘expanded carrier screening’ (ECS) is being offered as a technique to avoid the risk of donors passing on genetic conditions to future offspring. Allowing donors to be tested for hundreds of genetic conditions simultaneously, ECS marks a considerable departure from traditional ‘family history’ models of screening, which rely on an individual's knowledge of family health. There is growing evidence of a drive towards the use of ECS within the fertility sector, and a growing number of clinics are offering it for a fee, as part of an egg or sperm donation cycle or as an add‐on to IVF treatment. In this article, we use methods of critical reflection to synthesise data from two studies to explore how ECS is being used to avoid genetic risk in IVF treatment using donor gametes. We suggest that ECS is a new form of repro‐genetic selection—a selective reproductive technology—with specific and important implications for donors, recipients and clinicians and with the potential to reconfigure the scope and application of gamete donation. We examine these implications and conclude that the existing policy blind spot relating to this development in fertility treatment practice needs to be urgently addressed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Plasmodium falciparum life cycle includes obligate transition between a human and mosquito host. Gametocytes are responsible for transmission from the human to the mosquito vector where gamete fusion followed by meiosis occurs. To elucidate how male and female gametocytes differentiate in the absence of sex chromosomes, we perform FACS-based cell enrichment of a P. falciparum gametocyte reporter line followed by single-cell RNA-seq. In our analyses we define the transcriptional programs and predict candidate driver genes underlying male and female development, including genes from the ApiAP2 family of transcription factors. A motif-driven, gene regulatory network analysis indicates that AP2-G5 specifically modulates male development. Additionally, genes linked to the inner membrane complex, involved in morphological changes, are uniquely expressed in the female lineage. The transcriptional programs of male and female development detailed herein allow for further exploration of the evolution of sex in eukaryotes and provide targets for future development of transmission blocking therapies. P. falciparum (malaria) transmission includes the development of male and female parasite forms called gametocytes, which are taken up by the Anopheles mosquito. The authors of this study use single cell transcriptomics to define the transcriptional programs, identify key regulators and predict novel genes, involved in driving the male and female sexual cell fates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The number of infertile couples undergoing in vitro fertilisation (IVF) has increased significantly. The efficacy of this procedure is contingent upon a multitude of factors, including gamete quality. One factor influencing gamete quality is oxidative stress, which leads to telomere damage and accelerates cellular ageing. Identifying new biomarkers that can predict the success of assisted reproduction techniques is a current relevant area of research. In this review, we discuss the potential role of SIRT1, a protein known to protect against oxidative stress and telomeres, which are responsible for genome stability, as biomarkers of gamete quality and assisted reproduction technique outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT There is much dispute about what we owe the children we are responsible for creating. Some argue that so long as we provide offspring with lives worth living we do no wrong. Others argue that our procreative obligations are weightier and oblige us to provide (or attempt to provide) our offspring with a reasonable opportunity to thrive, or meet some other standard beyond merely providing a life worth living. Our practices and intuitions on this matter are inconsistent. For example, gamete donors who intentionally participate in the project of creating a child are thought to have few obligations to their offspring, but those who create a child accidentally are thought to have weighty obligations. Furthermore, a justification for why we are obliged to provide offspring with more than a life worth living has been elusive. To resolve this puzzle I argue that an under‐theorized element of morality, the directed duty of care, explains why we owe our offspring more than a life worth living. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Parental care is essential to offspring survival in many species. Understanding why males of some species provide care, whereas others do not, has received substantial attention. Previous research has found that sexual selection can favor paternal care, yet we still do not fully understand why sexual selection favors male care in some species but not others. It is also unclear when paternal care versus other preferred male trait(s) will be favored by sexual selection. We hypothesize that sexual selection can interact with basic life history to influence the conditions under which paternal care and/or another preferred male trait will be favored by sexual selection. We used a mathematical approach in which males alone provide parental care and exhibit a non‐care trait that is preferred in mate choice. Using this approach, we demonstrate that life‐history characteristics (stage‐specific mortality, fertilization success, gamete numbers) can interact with sexual selection to influence the evolution of paternal care and/or a preferred non‐care trait. In particular, whether (1) adult mortality, egg mortality, and fertilization success are high versus low and (2) a tradeoff exists between paternal care and a non‐care preferred trait will influence whether selection most strongly favors additional paternal care or a non‐care preferred trait. In general, we would expect strong selection for more male care when it is preferred in mate choice. In some cases, mate preferences for paternal care can inhibit selection for a preferred non‐care trait. Mate preferences for paternal care can also broaden the life‐history conditions under which we would expect the elaboration of male care to occur. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Premise: Quaking aspen is a clonal tree species that has mixed ploidy, often with high relative abundance of both diploids and triploids but no haploids or tetraploids. Triploids typically have low fertility, leaving their occurrence apparently unlikely from an evolutionary perspective, unless they provide a "triploid bridge" to generating higher‐fitness tetraploids—which are not observed in this species. This study focused on how triploidy can be maintained in quaking aspen. Methods: A computational model was used to simulate gamete production, sexual reproduction, asexual reproduction, parent survival, and offspring survival in a population. All parameters were assumed to be cytotype‐dependent and environment‐independent. Sampling methods were used to identify parameter combinations consistent with observed cytotype frequencies. Results: Many processes and parameter values were sufficient to yield a moderate frequency of triploids, and very few were necessary. The most plausible route involved higher triploid survival at the parent or offspring stage and limited unreduced gamete production by either diploid or triploid parents. Triploid fertility was helpful but not necessary. Conclusions: The coexistence of diploids and triploids in quaking aspen is statistically likely and promoted by the existence of commonly observed, long‐lived triploid clones. However, other mechanisms not captured by the model related to environmental variation could also occur. Further empirical data or more complex but difficult‐to‐parameterize models are needed to gain further insight. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The commercial viability of walleye (Sander vitreus) as an aquaculture species requires that walleye gametes are available year‐round so that multiple cohorts of walleye can be brought to market throughout the year. This study aimed to apply photothermal manipulations to three groups of walleye broodstock to induce out‐of‐season spawning and obtain a year‐round supply of fertilized walleye eggs. We manipulated photothermal regimes for three groups of broodstock to induce spawning in February (early), April (in‐season), and July (late‐season). In autumn, water temperatures were chilled to 8°C in all treatments. The duration of the chill period varied for each treatment with the early, in‐season, and late treatments remaining chilled for 6, 18, and 30 weeks, respectively, before being warmed to induce spawning. Fecundity was significantly lower for late‐season broodstock. Egg size and gonadosomatic index were significantly smaller in the early‐season treatment. Fertilization success was similar for early and in‐season treatments but was 0% for eggs from the late‐season treatment. Larval survival was significantly lower for walleye from early‐season broodstock. Our results suggest that early out‐of‐season spawning for walleye is possible but comes with tradeoffs of smaller egg size and lower larval survival. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An astonishing range of morphologies and life strategies has arisen across the vast diversity of protists, allowing them to thrive in most environments. In model protists, like Tetrahymena, Dictyostelium, or Trypanosoma, life cycles involving multiple life stages with different morphologies have been well characterized. In contrast, knowledge of the life cycles of free‐living protists, which primarily consist of uncultivated environmental lineages, remains largely fragmentary. Various life stages and lineage‐specific cellular innovations have been observed in the field for uncultivated protists, but such innovations generally lack functional characterization and have unknown physiological and ecological roles. In the actual state of knowledge, evidence of sexual processes is confirmed for 20% of free‐living protist lineages. Nevertheless, at the onset of eukaryotic diversification, common molecular trends emerged to promote genetic recombination, establishing sex as an inherent feature of protists. Here, we review protist life cycles from the viewpoint of life cycle transitions and genetics across major eukaryotic lineages. We focus on the scarcely observed sexual cycle of free‐living protists, summarizing evidence for its existence and describing key genes governing its progression, as well as, current methods for studying the genetics of sexual cycles in both cultivable and uncultivated protist groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Germline regulates the expression of life‐history traits and mediates the trade‐off between reproduction and somatic maintenance. However, germline maintenance in itself can be costly, and the costs can vary between the sexes depending on the number of gametes produced across the lifetime. We tested this directly by germline ablation using glp‐1 RNA interference (RNAi) in a dioecious nematode Caenorhabditis remanei. Germline removal strongly increased heat‐shock resistance in both sexes, thus confirming the role of the germline in regulating somatic maintenance. However, germline removal resulted in increased lifespan only in males. High costs of mating strongly reduced lifespan in both sexes and obliterated the survival benefit of germline‐less males even though neither sex produced any offspring. Furthermore, germline removal reduced male growth before maturation but not in adulthood, while female growth rate was reduced both before and especially after maturation. Thus, germline removal improves male lifespan without major growth costs, while germline‐less females grow slower and do not live longer than reproductively functional counterparts in the absence of environmental stress. Overall, these results suggest that germline maintenance is costlier for males than for females in C. remanei. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Genetic gains made by plant breeders are limited by generational cycling rates and flowering time. Several efforts have been made to reduce the time to switch from vegetative to reproductive stages in plants, but these solutions are usually species-specific and require flowering. The concept of in vitro nurseries is that somatic plant cells can be induced to form haploid cells that have undergone recombination (creating artificial gametes), which can then be used for cell fusion to enable breeding in a Petri dish. The induction of in vitro meiosis, however, is the largest current bottleneck to in vitro nurseries. To help overcome this, we previously described a high-throughput, bi-fluorescent, single cell system in Arabidopsis thaliana, which can be used to test the meiosis-like induction capabilities of candidate factors. In this present work, we validated the system using robust datasets (>4M datapoints) from extensive simulated meiosis induction tests. Additionally, we determined false-detection rates of the fluorescent cells used in this system as well as the ideal tissue source for factor testing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the dispersal potential of different species is essential for predicting recovery trajectories following local disturbances and the potential for adaptive loci to spread to populations facing extreme environmental changes. However, dispersal distances have been notoriously difficult to estimate for scleractinian corals, where sexually (as gametes or larvae) or asexually (as fragments or larvae) derived propagules disperse through vast oceans. Here, we demonstrate that generational dispersal distances for sexually produced propagules can be indirectly inferred for corals using individual-based isolation-by-distance (IbD) analyses by combining reduced-representation genomic sequencing with photogrammetric spatial mapping. Colonies from the genus Agaricia were densely sampled across plots at four locations and three depths in Curaçao. Seven cryptic taxa were found among the three nominal species (Agaricia agaricites, Agaricia humilis and Agaricia lamarcki), with four taxa showing generational dispersal distances within metres (two taxa within A. agaricites and two within A. humilis). However, no signals of IbD were found in A. lamarcki taxa and thus these taxa probably disperse relatively longer distances. The short distances estimated here imply that A. agaricites and A. humilis populations are reliant on highly localized replenishment and demonstrate the need to estimate dispersal distances quantitatively for more coral species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To assess factors associated with embryo donation among individuals interested in donation in the United States. Methods: An invitation to complete the 123-item survey was emailed from June to September 2022 to patients at a private practice fertility clinic with interest in donation at the time of IVF. Survey questions included disposition decision, attitudes about embryo status and genetic relatedness, donation disclosure, ideal donation arrangement, and decision satisfaction. Results: Three hundred thirty-seven completed the survey. Two hundred thirty donated to another person(s), 75 discarded embryos, 25 remained undecided, and disposition was unknown for 7 respondents. There were no demographic differences between groups based on final disposition or use of donor gametes. Few gamete recipients were interested in donation due to biological attachment to embryos. Final embryo disposition was associated with religious factors, not wanting to waste embryos, and storage fee concerns. Final disposition was also significantly associated with concern about donor-conceived children's (DCP) welfare, being denied the ability to complete donation, personal IVF outcomes, financial or legal issues, future contact with DCP, cognitive appraisal of disposition, beliefs about embryos, someone else raising their genetic child, anonymity, and beliefs about DCP not knowing genetic relationships (p <.001). Donation to others was associated with less regret and greater satisfaction with the emotional/medical aspects of donation and counseling compared to those who discarded embryos (p <.001). Conclusion: The decision to donate embryos to another person(s) is complex. Counseling that considers individual circumstances, values, and evolving dynamics may facilitate informed decision-making for those navigating infertility treatment, family building, and embryo disposition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the improvement of medical devices for diagnosis and radiotherapy, concerns about the effects of low doses of ionizing radiation are also growing. There is no consensus among scientists on whether they might have beneficial effects on humans in certain cases or pose more risks, making the exposure unreasonable. While the damaging consequences of high-dose radiation have been known since the discovery of radioactivity, low-dose effects present a much bigger investigative challenge. They are highly specific and include radio-adaptive responses, bystander effects, and genomic instability. Current data regarding the consequences of exposure to low-dose radiation on the quality of male gametes and fertility potential are contradictory. The reports suggest two directions: indirect impact on male gametes—through spermatogenesis—or direct effects at low doses on already mature spermatozoa. Although mature gametes are used for observation in both models, they are fundamentally different, leading to varied results. Due to their unique physiological characteristics, in certain cases, exposure of spermatozoa to low-dose ionizing radiation could have positive effects. Despite the findings indicating no beneficial effects of low-dose exposure on male fertility, it is essential to research its impact on mature spermatozoa, as well. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study was conducted to evaluate the quality of specific fractions of three Large White Yorkshire (LWY) boar semen samples. Fifteen semen samples were collected by gloved hand method as an initial 10 mL of sperm rich fraction (SRF- F1), remaining SRF (F2) and whole semen. Samples were evaluated for colour, volume, pH, sperm concentration and progressive motility. The first 10 mL of SRF of boar semen contained 25 per cent of the total ejaculate spermatozoa and was able to withstand cooling, freezing and thawing better than the spermatozoa of the bulk ejaculate. A significant difference between the fractions was observed in the volume of semen ejaculated, pH and sperm concentration across different fractions of the same ejaculate. The differences in semen fractions were attributed to the differences in the composition of seminal plasma of the initial fraction of SRF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fully grown oocytes have the natural ability to transform 2 terminally differentiated gametes into a totipotent zygote representing the acquisition of totipotency. This process wholly depends on maternal-effect factors (MFs). MFs stored in the eggs are therefore likely to be able to induce cellular reprogramming to a totipotency state. Here we report the generation of totipotent-like stem cells from mESCs using 4MFs Hsf1 , Zar1 , Padi6 , and Npm2 , designated as MFiTLSCs. MFiTLSCs exhibited a unique and inherent capability to differentiate into embryonic and extraembryonic derivatives. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that MFiTLSCs are enriched with 2-cell-specific genes that appear to synergistically induce a transcriptional repressive state, in that parental genomes are remodeled to a poised transcriptional repression state while totipotency is established following fertilization. This method to derive MFiTLSCs could help advance the understanding of fate determinations of totipotent stem cells in a physiological context and establish a foundation for the development of oocyte biology-based reprogramming technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Many local chicken breeds are rapidly declining and even facing extinction due to a variety of factors such as indiscriminate crossbreeding, climate fluctuations, epidemic outbreak, and environmental changes. Developing effective preservation strategies is important to address this situation. The special reproductive characteristics and gamete morphology of chickens pose challenges for preserving genetic heritage through the cryopreservation of genetic materials. Currently, gonad and primordial germ-cell cryopreservation and transplantation are the most promising approaches, especially for the genetic information in the W chromosome of female birds. The study of establishing sterile recipients is crucial for increasing the efficiency of the colonization of transplanted donor tissues and cells. Several classical methods, including ovariectomy and testectomy, busulfan, and irradiation, have been employed to deplete endogenous germ cells in recipient males before transplantation. These methods rely on the toxicity of chemical reagents and physical stimulation to kill germ cells. Recent advances in gene-editing technology have introduced sterile hosts via the knocking out of genes relevant to germ cells' development. This review explores state-of-the-art technologies for preparing infertile avian recipients (mainly chickens) and aims to provide guidance for the conservation of poultry genetic material and breed restoration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mammalian reproduction relies on precise maternal-fetal communication, wherein immune modifications foster tolerance toward the semi-allogeneic embryo. Extracellular vesicles (EVs), including exosomes and microvesicles, have emerged as crucial mediators, transporting molecules like microRNAs securely. EVs influence various reproductive stages, from gamete maturation to implantation, and impact pathologies like pregnancy loss. In the embryo-maternal dialogue, EVs notably affect oviductal interactions, gene expression, and the embryo-endometrial interface, crucial for successful implantation. Key queries persist about EV uptake, cargo delivery, and the specific biomolecules driving communication. Their potential in diagnostics, therapeutics, and understanding environmental impacts on fertility signals an exciting future, reliant on collaborative efforts for transformative strides in reproductive health. Mammalian reproduction hinges on maternal-fetal communication mediated by extracellular vesicles. Their role in diagnostics and therapeutics shows promise, but questions about uptake, cargo delivery, and specific biomolecules remain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The recentwidespread mortality and tissue loss in Florida from stony coral tissue loss disease (SCTLD) has propelled the need for assisted reproduction to restore reefs, especially for the ESA listed species Orbicella faveolata. In situ gamete collection can be challenging due to the weather and resources (boats and divers) required during the expected spawning window. In the northern portion of the Florida coral reef tract, coral spawn collection has been even more difficult due to historical inconsistency in annual spawning times and the potential for "zombie" corals, i.e. large but reproductively senescent individuals. Therefore, we examined the current reproductive potential of seven large (>2mdiameter) O. faveolata colonies from this region, quantified their fecundity, and estimated the spawning timeframe using histology. Additionally, we explored whether previous SCTLD lesion amoxycillin treatments affected reproductive metrics. Understanding the reproductive capacity and spawning timing of these large corals, given their history of disease and disease treatment, is critical to evaluate potential impacts of SCTLD treatments and the success of assisted reproduction efforts. The histological analysis coupled with inwater observations indicated a probable split-spawn in these individuals in 2020, although the dates of spawning may not be consistent with predictions for the wider Caribbean or with other colonies in Miami and the Florida Keys. All seven large O. faveolata colonies were found to contain abundant oocytes, with no obvious impact of SCTLD treatments on gamete development or fecundity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Unisexual hybrids that reproduce either clonally or hemiclonally are considered to be evolutionarily short-lived as they lack the ability to reduce deleterious mutations and increase genetic diversity. In the greenling (Teleostei: Hexagrammidae, genus Hexagrammos), unisexual hybrids that produce haploid eggs containing only the H. octogrammus (maternal species) genome generate hemiclonal offspring by fertilization with haploid sperm of H. agrammus (paternal species). When hemiclonal hybrids are backcrossed to a male of the maternal species, the offspring (BC-Hoc) are phenotypically similar to the maternal species and produce recombinant gametes through conventional meiosis. BC-Hoc (recombinant generation) individuals referred to as carriers harbor the genetic factor for hybridogenesis, thereby facilitating the production of new hemiclonal lineages through hybridization. Previous studies based on field research have suggested that the carriers produced by two-way backcrossing (mating pattern in which hemiclonal hybrids are backcrossed with both parental species) may overcome the evolutionary dead end imposed by the lack of recombination. The present study verified this hypothesis by regenerating a newly hemiclonal lineage through artificial hybridization. To clarify the genetic mode of hybrids produced by crosses between BC-Hoc and Hag, mature eggs were obtained from 16 individuals and fertilized with either Hag or Hoc sperm. Hybridogenesis was confirmed in one of the 16 individuals. Based on the low occurrence rate, these findings suggest that hemiclonal lineages can be regenerated, and that the hemiclonal factors are likely distributed across multiple genes on different chromosomes. The findings provide important evidence for the retention of a robust system for increasing genetic variability and maintaining evolutionary succession in unisexual hybrids that reproduce hemiclonally. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There has been emerging research linking per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) to gamete viability and fertility. PFAS, prevalent in the environment and water supplies, undergo slow degradation due to their C-F bond and a long half-life (2.3–8.5 years). In females, PFAS inhibit the hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal (HPG) axis, reducing follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) levels, leading to the inhibition of androgen and estradiol production. PFAS have been found to cause detrimental effects on egg quality through impairing folliculogenesis. In males, PFAS can impair sperm motility and morphology: two fundamental qualities of successful fertilization. PFAS exposure has been proven to inhibit testosterone production, sperm capacitation, and acrosomal reaction. After fertilization, the results of PFAS exposure to embryos have also been investigated, showing reduced development to the blastocyst stage. The aim of this review is to report the main findings in the literature on the impact of PFAS exposure to gamete competency and fertilization capability by highlighting key studies on both male and female fertility. We report that there is significant evidence demonstrating the negative impacts on fertility after PFAS exposure. At high doses, these environmentally abundant and widespread compounds can significantly affect human fertility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

On May 31, 2022, Colorado became the first state in the country to ban anonymous gamete (i.e., sperm and egg) donation through the enactment of the Donor-Conceived Persons and Families of Donor-Conceived Persons Protection Act. By 2043, donor-conceived Coloradans over the age of eighteen will gain access to the donor's identifying information, such as the donor's full name and permanent address, as well as their medical history. However, this newfound right to information also imposes heightened obligations on donor gamete agencies to obtain and track the data from their donors. Given the novelty of such legislation in the United States, crucial questions exist for the feasibility and efficacy of ensuring compliance within the gamete donation industry. This Note serves to explore four key provisions of the Act: access to donor information, donor limitations, age requirements for donors, and the educational materials provided to gamete donors and recipients. After analyzing these provisions, this Note compares the gamete donation legislation in Colorado with those found in the United Kingdom, Australia, and Denmark. This Note concludes by recommending the best path forward for upholding the rights of donor-conceived persons, gamete donors, and gamete recipients alike: a register that facilitates the tracking of identifying information for all parties involved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mitochondrial dysfunction is widely implicated in various human diseases, through mechanisms that go beyond mitochondria's well-established role in energy generation. These dynamic organelles exert vital control over numerous cellular processes, including calcium regulation, phospholipid synthesis, innate immunity, and apoptosis. While mitochondria's importance is acknowledged in all cell types, research has revealed the exceptionally dynamic nature of the mitochondrial network in oocytes and embryos, finely tuned to meet unique needs during gamete and pre-implantation embryo development. Within oocytes, both the quantity and morphology of mitochondria can significantly change during maturation and post-fertilization. These changes are orchestrated by fusion and fission processes (collectively known as mitochondrial dynamics), crucial for energy production, content exchange, and quality control as mitochondria adjust to the shifting energy demands of oocytes and embryos. The roles of proteins that regulate mitochondrial dynamics in reproductive processes have been primarily elucidated through targeted deletion studies in animal models. Notably, impaired mitochondrial dynamics have been linked to female reproductive health, affecting oocyte quality, fertilization, and embryo development. Dysfunctional mitochondria can lead to fertility problems and can have an impact on the success of pregnancy, particularly in older reproductive age women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a study on the co-cultivation of reproductive somatic cells with gametes and embryos as a tool to improve in vitro embryo production. It is mentioned that in vitro embryo production allows for increased reproductive efficiency of animals with high genetic value and the development of other biotechnologies. The objective is to improve culture conditions to resemble the physiological environment by using the co-cultivation of somatic cells with gametes or embryos. Co-cultivation of embryos with luteal and oviductal cells has been shown to improve efficiency and quality of embryos in assisted reproduction in cattle and pigs. Additionally, co-cultivation modifies gene expression related to lipid metabolism, mitochondrial function, and apoptosis. [Extracted from the article]

The use of adult intrafamilial gamete donors and gestational surrogates is generally ethically acceptable when all participants are fully informed and counseled, but consanguineous arrangements or ones that simulate incestuous unions should be prohibited. Adult child-to-parent arrangements require caution to avoid coercion, and parent-to-adult child arrangements are acceptable in limited situations. Programs that choose to participate in intrafamilial arrangements should be prepared to spend additional time counseling participants and ensuring that they have made free, informed decisions. This document replaces the document of the same name, last published in 2017. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The GEX2 protein is expressed in the maize gamete membranes and is necessary during fertilization at the stage of contact (adhesion) of gamete membranes. Knockout of GEX2 gene can presumably lead to impaired fertilization and, as a result, to the formation of matroclinic haploid maize embryos. The purpose of this study is to analyze the efficiency of CRISPR/Cas9 editing of the GEX2 gene after PEG-mediated transfection of maize protoplasts by ribonucleoprotein (RNP) complexes with different gRNAs. For the first time, constructs for CRISPR/Cas9 editing of the maize GEX2 gene have been created, the effectiveness of which has been proven on protoplasts and reaches 10.7%, depending on the selected gRNA and the ratio and number of components in the RNP complexes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Aubria subsigillata is such a highly valued, edible species for the citizens of Benin that over exploitation has led to a rarefaction of wild populations. Aims: The aim of captive breeding is to develop breeding protocols and farming practices for the species which will reduce hunting pressure on wild populations. Methods: The methodology consisted of determining the concentration of ovulatory hormone and its method of injection into the breeding stock, followed by in vitro fertilisation of the unfertilised eggs of the females by the spermic urine of the males to determine the optimum injection method, hormone concentration for ovulation and sperm collections, and the development of in vitro fertilisation protocols using gametes obtained via the aforementioned methodologies. Key results: Results indicated that 0.2I U/g concentration of gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist administered intrafemorally enabled spontaneous release of spermic urine and ova in the breeding animals. The latency time between injection and collection of gametes was 13 h in males and 27 h in females at a temperature of 28.5°C. Females laid an average of 172 eggs weighing 1 mg mass. Conclusions: Aubria subsigillata is a frog that reproduces using stimuli (hormone), and in vitro fertilisation resulted in a high rate of fertilised eggs. Implications: Artificial reproduction in A. subsigillata is carried out in five phases: (1) selection of mature broodstock; (2) hormonal injection; (3) gamete collection; (4) in vitro fertilisation; and (5) incubation. However, work should continue on improving the egg hatching rate. The frog Aubria subsigillata is an edible species that is highly valued in the human diet in Benin. However, a strong rarefaction of the species due to its uncontrolled exploitation is observed in the wild. The 0.2 IU/g of Ovulin hormone administered intrafemorally enabled collection of gametes at 13 h in males and 27 h in females, and 172 eggs of 1 mg were incubated after 167 h. A. subsigillata reproduction goes through five phases: (1) selection of mature broodstock; (2) hormonal injection; (3) gamete collection; (4) in vitro fertilisation; and (5) incubation. Photograph by Houénafa A. C. Gansa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Searching biomarkers, that have an early prognostic trait and determinate functional status of male gametes Gallus Gallus is a promising direction for improving ejaculate’s quality reproductive characteristics. In context of a decreasing reproductive performance due to breeding selection of birds aimed to improving economically useful traits, this approach to selecting males, based on their sperm quality production will make it possible to evaluate sperm in a short time and identify potentially the best producers at early stages. The study determined possibility of using exDNA as a potential biomarker that determines quality indicators of native sperm obtained from roosters. Significant correlations were revealed between exDNA and proportion of cells with damaged plasma membrane (r = 0.35, p