TRPM7-like channels are functionally expressed in oocytes and modulate post-fertilization embryo development in mouse
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Updated: Mar 14, 2026
Defining the Program of Maternal mRNA Translation during In vitro Maturation using a Single Oocyte Reporter Assay
Published on: June 16, 2021
Ingrid Carvacho1,2,3, Goli Ardestani4, Hoi Chang Lee4
1Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, DK-8000 Aarhus C, Denmark.
Abstract:
The Transient Receptor Potential (TRP) channels are a family of cationic ion channels widely distributed in mammalian tissues. In general, the global genetic disruption of individual TRP channels result in phenotypes associated with impairment of a particular tissue and/or organ function. An exception is the genetic ablation of the TRP channel TRPM7, which results in early embryonic lethality. Nevertheless, the function of TRPM7 in oocytes, eggs and pre-implantation embryos remains unknown. Here, we described an outward rectifying non-selective current mediated by a TRP ion channel in immature oocytes (germinal vesicle stage), matured oocytes (metaphase II eggs) and 2-cell stage embryos. The current is activated by specific agonists and inhibited by distinct blockers consistent with the functional expression of TRPM7 channels. We demonstrated that the TRPM7-like channels are homo-tetramers and their activation mediates calcium influx in oocytes and eggs, which is fundamental to support fertilization and egg activation. Lastly, we showed that pharmacological inhibition of the channel function delays pre-implantation embryo development and reduces progression to the blastocyst stage. Our data demonstrate functional expression of TRPM7-like channels in mouse oocytes, eggs and embryos that may play an essential role in the initiation of embryo development.
Insights
Transient Receptor Potential Melastatin 7 (TRPM7) channels are crucial for early embryonic development. This study reveals TRPM7-like channels in mouse oocytes and embryos, essential for fertilization and initial development.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Biology
- Ion Channel Physiology
- Developmental Biology
Background:
- Transient Receptor Potential (TRP) channels are vital ion channels in mammalian tissues.
- Genetic disruption of most TRP channels causes tissue-specific dysfunction, but TRPM7 ablation leads to embryonic lethality.
- The role of TRPM7 in oocytes and early embryos remains uncharacterized.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence and function of TRPM7 channels in mouse oocytes, eggs, and pre-implantation embryos.
- To determine the role of TRPM7-like channels in fertilization and early embryonic development.
Main Methods:
- Electrophysiological recordings to characterize ion channel currents in oocytes and embryos.
- Application of specific agonists and blockers to identify the channel type.
- Assessment of TRPM7 channel assembly (homo-tetramers) and function (calcium influx).
- Pharmacological inhibition of TRPM7 to evaluate effects on pre-implantation embryo development.
Main Results:
- An outward rectifying, non-selective current, consistent with TRPM7 channel activity, was identified in immature oocytes, mature eggs, and 2-cell embryos.
- TRPM7-like channels were confirmed to be homo-tetramers.
- Channel activation mediated calcium influx in oocytes and eggs, critical for fertilization and egg activation.
- Pharmacological inhibition of TRPM7 delayed embryo development and reduced blastocyst formation.
Conclusions:
- Functional TRPM7-like channels are expressed in mouse oocytes, eggs, and early embryos.
- These channels play a critical role in mediating calcium influx necessary for fertilization and egg activation.
- TRPM7 channels are essential for the initiation and progression of pre-implantation embryo development.
