title: Effects of 1,2-propanediol on the cytoskeletal organization of the mouse oocyte.
abstract: The effects of 1,2-propanediol, a cryoprotectant used for the freezing of embryos, were tested on the organization of microtubules and microfilaments in mouse oocytes arrested in metaphase II. At low doses (less than or equal to 1.0 M), 1,2-propanediol induced disorganization of the meiotic spindle but at 1.5 M and higher, it stabilized the spindle. Cytoplasmic asters were observed at all doses tested. An extensive network of free microtubules was observed at 1.0 M and 2.0 M 1,2-propanediol, the former having the stronger disruptive effect on the spindle. Higher doses of 1,2-propanediol (greater than or equal to 1.5 M) caused the oocytes to form cytoplasmic blebs. These blebs lacked detectable cortical microfilaments. In contrast, the microfilament-rich area of the cell cortex overlying the meiotic spindle was not modified.
authors.affiliation: Institut Jacques Monod, CNRS, Université Paris 7, France.
authors.forename: C
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Joly
authors.forename: O
authors.initials: O
authors.lastname: Bchini
authors.forename: H
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Boulekbache
authors.forename: J
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Testart
authors.forename: B
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Maro
mesh_terms: D008841:Actin Cytoskeleton / Q000187:drug effects*; D000818:Animals; D000911:Antibodies, Monoclonal; D003451:Cryoprotective Agents / Q000494:pharmacology*; D005260:Female; D007150:Immunohistochemistry; D008677:Metaphase; D051379:Mice; D008870:Microtubules / Q000187:drug effects*; D009865:Oocytes / Q000187:drug effects* / Q000648:ultrastructure; D019946:Propylene Glycol; D011409:Propylene Glycols / Q000494:pharmacology*; D008941:Spindle Apparatus / Q000187:drug effects
chemical_list: D000911:Antibodies, Monoclonal; D003451:Cryoprotective Agents; D011409:Propylene Glycols; D019946:Propylene Glycol