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Dimethylsulphoxide affects the organisation of microfilaments in the mouse oocyte
C Vincent1, S J Pickering, M H Johnson
1Department of Anatomy, University of Cambridge, England.
Abstract:
The effect of dimethylsulphoxide (DMSO) on microfilament organisation has been studied in the mouse oocyte after staining with (NBD)-phallacidin. The cortical actin meshwork was disrupted by exposure of oocytes to 1.5 M DMSO at 37 degrees C, and this disruption was associated with changes in the cell surface, especially microvilli length and distribution, as observed by scanning electron microscopy. The irregular distribution of actin filaments observed also appears to lead to an irregular expansion of the cell after DMSO removal. However, when exposure to DMSO was combined with cooling, the effects on the microfilament system were much reduced. The reversibility of DMSO action is considered and the potential implications of microfilament disruption on the viability and functions of the oocyte discussed.
Insights
Dimethylsulphoxide (DMSO) disrupts mouse oocyte actin organization, altering cell surface structures. Combining DMSO exposure with cooling significantly reduces these damaging effects on microfilaments.
Area of Science:
- Cell Biology
- Reproductive Biology
Background:
- Dimethylsulphoxide (DMSO) is a cryoprotective agent used in oocyte preservation.
- DMSO's effects on the cytoskeleton, particularly actin organization, are not fully understood.
- Oocyte viability is dependent on intact cytoskeletal structures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of DMSO on microfilament organization in mouse oocytes.
- To examine the relationship between DMSO-induced actin disruption and cell surface morphology.
- To assess the protective effect of cooling on DMSO-induced cytoskeletal damage.
Main Methods:
- Mouse oocytes were exposed to 1.5 M DMSO at 37°C.
- Microfilament organization was visualized using (NBD)-phallacidin staining.
- Cell surface changes were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy.
- Oocytes were also exposed to DMSO combined with cooling.
Main Results:
- DMSO exposure disrupted the cortical actin meshwork in mouse oocytes.
- Disruption of actin filaments led to altered microvilli length and distribution.
- Irregular actin distribution resulted in abnormal cell expansion post-DMSO removal.
- Combined cooling and DMSO exposure significantly mitigated the effects on the microfilament system.
Conclusions:
- DMSO at 1.5 M disrupts the actin cytoskeleton in mouse oocytes, affecting cell surface integrity.
- Cooling can ameliorate DMSO-induced cytoskeletal damage, suggesting a protective role.
- Understanding these effects is crucial for optimizing cryopreservation protocols and oocyte viability.