Knockdown of regulatory associated protein of TOR (raptor) in hypothalamus-stimulated folliculogenesis and induced ovarian cysts.

Context: Mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) is an essential sensor that regulates fundamental biological processes like cell growth, proliferation and energy metabolism. The treatment of disease by sirolimus, a mTORC1 inhibitor, causes adverse effects, such as female fertility disorders.

Aims: The objective of the study was to decipher the reproductive consequences of a downregulation of mTORC1 in the hypothalamus.

Preimplantation genetic diagnosis in Welsh pony embryos after biopsy and cryopreservation.

Preimplantation genetic diagnosis and embryo cryopreservation are important tools to improve genetic management in equine species with marked consequences on the economic value, health, biodiversity, and preservation of the animals. This study aimed to develop a biopsy method at the blastocyst stage that provides viable genotyped cryopreserved Welsh pony embryos. Embryos were collected at d 6.

Effect of metformin on the fertilizing ability of mouse spermatozoa.

Numerous antioxidants have been added to cryopreservation media with varied success. The biguanide, metformin, commonly used for the treatment of type II diabetes, possesses properties impacting metabolism control that have not been yet assessed in cryopreservation protocols. The aim of this experiment was to; (i) determine the effect of metformin on fresh spermatozoa properties; and (ii) to assess positive or negative effects of metformin in post-thaw function and fertilizing capacity of mouse spermatozoa when used in cryopreservation media.

[mTORC1 and sirolimus: a link with fertility].

mTOR (mammalian target of rapamycin), a protein kinase highly conserved, is the catalytic subunit of two complexes, mTORC1 and mTORC2. These complexes are regulated by amino acids availability, by insulin and growth factors signaling pathways. Thus, mTORC1 and mTORC2 complexes are essential sensors of the cellular nutrient and energy levels in living organisms.

Metformin exposure affects human and mouse fetal testicular cells.

Background: Metformin is a drug used in the treatment of diabetes and of some disorders related to insulin resistance, such as polycystic ovary syndrome. Gestational diabetes can cause complications for both mother and child, and some studies have shown a beneficial effect of metformin during pregnancy without an increase in perinatal complications. However, the effects on the gonads have not been properly studied.