Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 11, 2026

Author Spotlight: Targeted Microinjection and Electroporation of Primate Cerebral Organoids for Genetic Modification
Published on: March 24, 2023
Acetylcholine and necroptosis are players in follicular development in primates
Yongrui Du1,2, Konstantin Bagnjuk3, Maralee S Lawson1
1Division of Reproductive & Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, 505 NW 185th Avenue, Beaverton, Oregon, 97006, USA.
Abstract:
Acetylcholine (ACh) in the ovary and its actions were linked to survival of human granulosa cells in vitro and improved fertility of rats in vivo. These effects were observed upon experimental blockage of the ACh-degrading enzyme (ACH esterase; ACHE), by Huperzine A. We now studied actions of Huperzine A in a three-dimensional culture of macaque follicles. Because a form of programmed necrotic cell death, necroptosis, was previously identified in human granulosa cells in vitro, we also studied actions of necrostatin-1 (necroptosis inhibitor). Blocking the breakdown of ACh by inhibiting ACHE, or interfering with necroptosis, did not improve the overall follicle survival, but promoted the growth of macaque follicles from the secondary to the small antral stage in vitro, which was correlated with oocyte development. The results from this translational model imply that ovarian function and fertility in primates may be improved by pharmacological interference with ACHE actions and necroptosis.
Related Concept Videos
Sustainable Development
Language Development
The critical period for language acquisition suggests that the ability to acquire language is at its peak early in life. As people age, this proficiency decreases. Language development begins very...
Development of the Lymphatic System
The first lymph sacs to form are the paired jugular lymph sacs located at the junction of the internal jugular and subclavian veins. From these sacs, lymphatic capillary plexuses extend to the thorax, upper limbs, neck, and head, eventually forming lymphatic vessels. Each jugular lymph sac maintains a...
Development of Immunocompetence
The initial cells that migrate from the fetal thymus settle within the skin and epithelial tissues lining the mouth, digestive tract, and in females, the uterus and vagina. These cells, including skin-based dendritic cells, serve as antigen-presenting cells, playing a key role in T cell activation.
Subsequent T...
Development of the Heart
As the embryo undergoes lateral folding, these paired tubes approach each other, merging into a single primitive heart...
Fruit Development, Structure, and Function

