1
|
Yoshimura S, Shimada R, Kikuchi K, Kawagoe S, Abe H, Iisaka S, Fujimura S, Yasunaga KI, Usuki S, Tani N, Ohba T, Kondoh E, Saio T, Araki K, Ishiguro KI. Atypical heat shock transcription factor HSF5 is critical for male meiotic prophase under non-stress conditions. Nat Commun 2024; 15:3330. [PMID: 38684656 PMCID: PMC11059408 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-47601-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Meiotic prophase progression is differently regulated in males and females. In males, pachytene transition during meiotic prophase is accompanied by robust alteration in gene expression. However, how gene expression is regulated differently to ensure meiotic prophase completion in males remains elusive. Herein, we identify HSF5 as a male germ cell-specific heat shock transcription factor (HSF) for meiotic prophase progression. Genetic analyzes and single-cell RNA-sequencing demonstrate that HSF5 is essential for progression beyond the pachytene stage under non-stress conditions rather than heat stress. Chromatin binding analysis in vivo and DNA-binding assays in vitro suggest that HSF5 binds to promoters in a subset of genes associated with chromatin organization. HSF5 recognizes a DNA motif different from typical heat shock elements recognized by other canonical HSFs. This study suggests that HSF5 is an atypical HSF that is required for the gene expression program for pachytene transition during meiotic prophase in males.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Saori Yoshimura
- Department of Chromosome Biology, Institute of Molecular Embryology and Genetics (IMEG), Kumamoto University, Honjo 2-2-1, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto, 860-0811, Japan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Life Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, 860-8556, Japan
| | - Ryuki Shimada
- Department of Chromosome Biology, Institute of Molecular Embryology and Genetics (IMEG), Kumamoto University, Honjo 2-2-1, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto, 860-0811, Japan
| | - Koji Kikuchi
- Department of Chromosome Biology, Institute of Molecular Embryology and Genetics (IMEG), Kumamoto University, Honjo 2-2-1, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto, 860-0811, Japan
| | - Soichiro Kawagoe
- Division of Molecular Life Science, Institute of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima, 770-8503, Japan
| | - Hironori Abe
- Department of Chromosome Biology, Institute of Molecular Embryology and Genetics (IMEG), Kumamoto University, Honjo 2-2-1, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto, 860-0811, Japan
| | - Sakie Iisaka
- Department of Chromosome Biology, Institute of Molecular Embryology and Genetics (IMEG), Kumamoto University, Honjo 2-2-1, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto, 860-0811, Japan
| | - Sayoko Fujimura
- Liaison Laboratory Research Promotion Center, IMEG, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, 860-0811, Japan
| | - Kei-Ichiro Yasunaga
- Liaison Laboratory Research Promotion Center, IMEG, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, 860-0811, Japan
| | - Shingo Usuki
- Liaison Laboratory Research Promotion Center, IMEG, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, 860-0811, Japan
| | - Naoki Tani
- Liaison Laboratory Research Promotion Center, IMEG, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, 860-0811, Japan
| | - Takashi Ohba
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Life Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, 860-8556, Japan
| | - Eiji Kondoh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Life Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, 860-8556, Japan
| | - Tomohide Saio
- Division of Molecular Life Science, Institute of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima, 770-8503, Japan
| | - Kimi Araki
- Institute of Resource Development and Analysis, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, 860-0811, Japan
- Center for Metabolic Regulation of Healthy Aging, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, 860-8556, Japan
| | - Kei-Ichiro Ishiguro
- Department of Chromosome Biology, Institute of Molecular Embryology and Genetics (IMEG), Kumamoto University, Honjo 2-2-1, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto, 860-0811, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Wei C, Kesner B, Yin H, Lee JT. Imprinted X chromosome inactivation at the gamete-to-embryo transition. Mol Cell 2024; 84:1442-1459.e7. [PMID: 38458200 PMCID: PMC11031340 DOI: 10.1016/j.molcel.2024.02.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2023] [Revised: 12/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/10/2024]
Abstract
In mammals, dosage compensation involves two parallel processes: (1) X inactivation, which equalizes X chromosome dosage between males and females, and (2) X hyperactivation, which upregulates the active X for X-autosome balance. The field currently favors models whereby dosage compensation initiates "de novo" during mouse development. Here, we develop "So-Smart-seq" to revisit the question and interrogate a comprehensive transcriptome including noncoding genes and repeats in mice. Intriguingly, de novo silencing pertains only to a subset of Xp genes. Evolutionarily older genes and repetitive elements demonstrate constitutive Xp silencing, adopt distinct signatures, and do not require Xist to initiate silencing. We trace Xp silencing backward in developmental time to meiotic sex chromosome inactivation in the male germ line and observe that Xm hyperactivation is timed to Xp silencing on a gene-by-gene basis. Thus, during the gamete-to-embryo transition, older Xp genes are transmitted in a "pre-inactivated" state. These findings have implications for the evolution of imprinting.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chunyao Wei
- Department of Molecular Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Barry Kesner
- Department of Molecular Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Hao Yin
- Department of Molecular Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jeannie T Lee
- Department of Molecular Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Gill ME, Rohmer A, Erkek-Ozhan S, Liang CY, Chun S, Ozonov EA, Peters AHFM. De novo transcriptome assembly of mouse male germ cells reveals novel genes, stage-specific bidirectional promoter activity, and noncoding RNA expression. Genome Res 2023; 33:2060-2078. [PMID: 38129075 PMCID: PMC10760527 DOI: 10.1101/gr.278060.123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
In mammals, the adult testis is the tissue with the highest diversity in gene expression. Much of that diversity is attributed to germ cells, primarily meiotic spermatocytes and postmeiotic haploid spermatids. Exploiting a newly developed cell purification method, we profiled the transcriptomes of such postmitotic germ cells of mice. We used a de novo transcriptome assembly approach and identified thousands of novel expressed transcripts characterized by features distinct from those of known genes. Novel loci tend to be short in length, monoexonic, and lowly expressed. Most novel genes have arisen recently in evolutionary time and possess low coding potential. Nonetheless, we identify several novel protein-coding genes harboring open reading frames that encode proteins containing matches to conserved protein domains. Analysis of mass-spectrometry data from adult mouse testes confirms protein production from several of these novel genes. We also examine overlap between transcripts and repetitive elements. We find that although distinct families of repeats are expressed with differing temporal dynamics during spermatogenesis, we do not observe a general mode of regulation wherein repeats drive expression of nonrepetitive sequences in a cell type-specific manner. Finally, we observe many fairly long antisense transcripts originating from canonical gene promoters, pointing to pervasive bidirectional promoter activity during spermatogenesis that is distinct and more frequent compared with somatic cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mark E Gill
- Friedrich Miescher Institute for Biomedical Research, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Alexia Rohmer
- Friedrich Miescher Institute for Biomedical Research, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Serap Erkek-Ozhan
- Friedrich Miescher Institute for Biomedical Research, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
- Faculty of Science, University of Basel, 4001 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Ching-Yeu Liang
- Friedrich Miescher Institute for Biomedical Research, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
- Faculty of Science, University of Basel, 4001 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Sunwoo Chun
- Friedrich Miescher Institute for Biomedical Research, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
- Faculty of Science, University of Basel, 4001 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Evgeniy A Ozonov
- Friedrich Miescher Institute for Biomedical Research, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Antoine H F M Peters
- Friedrich Miescher Institute for Biomedical Research, 4058 Basel, Switzerland;
- Faculty of Science, University of Basel, 4001 Basel, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Kitamura Y, Takahashi K, Maezawa S, Munakata Y, Sakashita A, Kaplan N, Namekawa SH. CTCF-mediated 3D chromatin predetermines the gene expression program in the male germline. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.11.30.569508. [PMID: 38076840 PMCID: PMC10705413 DOI: 10.1101/2023.11.30.569508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2023]
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is a unidirectional differentiation process that generates haploid sperm, but how the gene expression program that directs this process is established is largely unknown. Here we determine the high-resolution 3D chromatin architecture of male germ cells during spermatogenesis and show that CTCF-mediated 3D chromatin predetermines the gene expression program required for spermatogenesis. In undifferentiated spermatogonia, CTCF-mediated chromatin contacts on autosomes pre-establish meiosis-specific super-enhancers (SE). These meiotic SE recruit the master transcription factor A-MYB in meiotic spermatocytes, which strengthens their 3D contacts and instructs a burst of meiotic gene expression. We also find that at the mitosis-to-meiosis transition, the germline-specific Polycomb protein SCML2 resolves chromatin loops that are specific to mitotic spermatogonia. Moreover, SCML2 and A-MYB establish the unique 3D chromatin organization of sex chromosomes during meiotic sex chromosome inactivation. We propose that CTCF-mediated 3D chromatin organization enforces epigenetic priming that directs unidirectional differentiation, thereby determining the cellular identity of the male germline.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuka Kitamura
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - Kazuki Takahashi
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Division of Developmental Biology, Perinatal Institute, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
| | - So Maezawa
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Division of Developmental Biology, Perinatal Institute, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
- Faculty of Science and Technology, Department of Applied Biological Science, Tokyo University of Science, Noda, Chiba, 281-8510, Japan
| | - Yasuhisa Munakata
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Division of Developmental Biology, Perinatal Institute, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
| | - Akihiko Sakashita
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Division of Developmental Biology, Perinatal Institute, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
- Department of Molecular Biology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, 160-8582 Japan
| | - Noam Kaplan
- Department of Physiology, Biophysics & Systems Biology, Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Satoshi H. Namekawa
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Division of Developmental Biology, Perinatal Institute, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Hunnicutt KE, Callahan C, Keeble S, Moore EC, Good JM, Larson EL. Different complex regulatory phenotypes underlie hybrid male sterility in divergent rodent crosses. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.10.30.564782. [PMID: 37961317 PMCID: PMC10634954 DOI: 10.1101/2023.10.30.564782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
Hybrid incompatibilities are a critical component of species barriers and may arise due to negative interactions between divergent regulatory elements in parental species. We used a comparative approach to identify common themes in the regulatory phenotypes associated with hybrid male sterility in two divergent rodent crosses, dwarf hamsters and house mice. We investigated three potential characteristic regulatory phenotypes in hybrids including the propensity towards over or underexpression relative to parental species, the influence of developmental stage on the extent of misexpression, and the role of the sex chromosomes on misexpression phenotypes. In contrast to near pervasive overexpression in hybrid house mice, we found that misexpression in hybrid dwarf hamsters was dependent on developmental stage. In both house mouse and dwarf hamster hybrids, however, misexpression increased with the progression of spermatogenesis, although to varying extents and with potentially different consequences. In both systems, we detected sex-chromosome specific overexpression in stages of spermatogenesis where inactivated X chromosome expression was expected, but the hybrid overexpression phenotypes were fundamentally different. Importantly, misexpression phenotypes support the presence of multiple histological blocks to spermatogenesis in dwarf hamster hybrids, including a potential role of meiotic stalling early in spermatogenesis. Collectively, we demonstrate that while there are some similarities in hybrid regulatory phenotypes of house mice and dwarf hamsters, there are also clear differences that point towards unique mechanisms underlying hybrid male sterility in each system. Our results highlight the potential of comparative approaches in helping to understand the importance of disrupted gene regulation in speciation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Colin Callahan
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of Montana, Missoula, MT, 59812
| | - Sara Keeble
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of Montana, Missoula, MT, 59812
| | - Emily C. Moore
- University of Denver, Department of Biological Sciences, Denver, CO, 80208
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of Montana, Missoula, MT, 59812
| | - Jeffrey M. Good
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of Montana, Missoula, MT, 59812
| | - Erica L. Larson
- University of Denver, Department of Biological Sciences, Denver, CO, 80208
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Zhao LY, Li P, Yao CC, Tian RH, Tang YX, Chen YZ, Zhou Z, Li Z. Low XIST expression in Sertoli cells of Klinefelter syndrome patients causes high susceptibility of these cells to an extra X chromosome. Asian J Androl 2023; 25:662-673. [PMID: 37202929 DOI: 10.4103/aja202315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Klinefelter syndrome (KS) is the most common genetic cause of human male infertility. However, the effect of the extra X chromosome on different testicular cell types remains poorly understood. Here, we profiled testicular single-cell transcriptomes from three KS patients and normal karyotype control individuals. Among the different somatic cells, Sertoli cells showed the greatest transcriptome changes in KS patients. Further analysis showed that X-inactive-specific transcript ( XIST ), a key factor that inactivates one X chromosome in female mammals, was widely expressed in each testicular somatic cell type but not in Sertoli cells. The loss of XIST in Sertoli cells leads to an increased level of X chromosome genes, and further disrupts their transcription pattern and cellular function. This phenomenon was not detected in other somatic cells such as Leydig cells and vascular endothelial cells. These results proposed a new mechanism to explain why testicular atrophy in KS patients is heterogeneous with loss of seminiferous tubules but interstitial hyperplasia. Our study provides a theoretical basis for subsequent research and related treatment of KS by identifying Sertoli cell-specific X chromosome inactivation failure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Liang-Yu Zhao
- Department of Andrology, The Center for Men's Health, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
- Department of Urology, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai 519000, China
- Department of Interventional Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomedical Imaging, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai 519000, China
| | - Peng Li
- Department of Andrology, The Center for Men's Health, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Chen-Cheng Yao
- Department of Andrology, The Center for Men's Health, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Ru-Hui Tian
- Department of Andrology, The Center for Men's Health, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Yu-Xin Tang
- Department of Urology, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai 519000, China
- Department of Interventional Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomedical Imaging, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai 519000, China
| | - Yu-Zhuo Chen
- Department of Interventional Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomedical Imaging, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai 519000, China
| | - Zhi Zhou
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 200120, China
| | - Zheng Li
- Department of Andrology, The Center for Men's Health, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Chukrallah LG, Potgieter S, Chueh L, Snyder EM. Two RNA binding proteins, ADAD2 and RNF17, interact to form a heterogeneous population of novel meiotic germ cell granules with developmentally dependent organelle association. PLoS Genet 2023; 19:e1010519. [PMID: 37428816 PMCID: PMC10359003 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1010519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Revised: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Mammalian male germ cell differentiation relies on complex RNA biogenesis events, many of which occur in non-membrane bound organelles termed RNA germ cell granules that are rich in RNA binding proteins (RBPs). Though known to be required for male germ cell differentiation, we understand little of the relationships between the numerous granule subtypes. ADAD2, a testis specific RBP, is required for normal male fertility and forms a poorly characterized granule in meiotic germ cells. This work aimed to understand the role of ADAD2 granules in male germ cell differentiation by clearly defining their molecular composition and relationship to other granules. Biochemical analyses identified RNF17, a testis specific RBP that forms meiotic male germ cell granules, as an ADAD2-interacting protein. Phenotypic analysis of Adad2 and Rnf17 mutants identified a rare post-meiotic chromatin defect, suggesting shared biological roles. ADAD2 and RNF17 were found to be dependent on one another for granularization and together form a previously unstudied set of germ cell granules. Based on co-localization studies with well-characterized granule RBPs and organelle-specific markers, a subset of the ADAD2-RNF17 granules are found to be associated with the intermitochondrial cement and piRNA biogenesis. In contrast, a second, morphologically distinct population of ADAD2-RNF17 granules co-localized with the translation regulators NANOS1 and PUM1, along with the molecular chaperone PDI. These large granules form a unique funnel-shaped structure that displays distinct protein subdomains and is tightly associated with the endoplasmic reticulum. Developmental studies suggest the different granule populations represent different phases of a granule maturation process. Lastly, a double Adad2-Rnf17 mutant model suggests the interaction between ADAD2 and RNF17, as opposed to loss of either, is the likely driver of the Adad2 and Rnf17 mutant phenotypes. These findings shed light on the relationship between germ cell granule pools and define new genetic approaches to their study.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lauren G. Chukrallah
- Department of Animal Science, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Sarah Potgieter
- Department of Animal Science, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Lisa Chueh
- Department of Animal Science, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Elizabeth M. Snyder
- Department of Animal Science, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Otsuka K, Sakashita A, Maezawa S, Schultz RM, Namekawa SH. KRAB-zinc-finger proteins regulate endogenous retroviruses to sculpt germline transcriptomes and genome evolution. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.06.24.546405. [PMID: 37720031 PMCID: PMC10503828 DOI: 10.1101/2023.06.24.546405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/19/2023]
Abstract
As transposable elements (TEs) coevolved with the host genome, the host genome exploited TEs as functional regulatory elements. What remains largely unknown are how the activity of TEs, namely, endogenous retroviruses (ERVs), are regulated and how TEs evolved in the germline. Here we show that KRAB domain-containing zinc-finger proteins (KZFPs), which are highly expressed in mitotically dividing spermatogonia, bind to suppressed ERVs that function following entry into meiosis as active enhancers. These features are observed for independently evolved KZFPs and ERVs in mice and humans, i.e., are evolutionarily conserved in mammals. Further, we show that meiotic sex chromosome inactivation (MSCI) antagonizes the coevolution of KZFPs and ERVs in mammals. Our study uncovers a mechanism by which KZFPs regulate ERVs to sculpt germline transcriptomes. We propose that epigenetic programming in the mammalian germline during the mitosis-to-meiosis transition facilitates coevolution of KZFPs and TEs on autosomes and is antagonized by MSCI.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kai Otsuka
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Davis, California, 95616, USA
| | - Akihiko Sakashita
- Reproductive Sciences Center, Division of Developmental Biology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, 45229, USA
- Department of Molecular Biology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, 160-8582, Japan
| | - So Maezawa
- Department of Applied Biological Science, Faculty of Science and Technology, Tokyo University of Science, Noda, Chiba, 278-8510, Japan
| | - Richard M. Schultz
- Department of Biology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104 USA
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Cell Biology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, California 95616, USA
| | - Satoshi H. Namekawa
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Davis, California, 95616, USA
- Reproductive Sciences Center, Division of Developmental Biology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, 45229, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Sasaki K, Sangrithi M. Developmental origins of mammalian spermatogonial stem cells: New perspectives on epigenetic regulation and sex chromosome function. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2023:111949. [PMID: 37201564 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2023.111949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Revised: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Male and female germ cells undergo genome-wide reprogramming during their development, and execute sex-specific programs to complete meiosis and successfully generate healthy gametes. While sexually dimorphic germ cell development is fundamental, similarities and differences exist in the basic processes governing normal gametogenesis. At the simplest level, male gamete generation in mammals is centred on the activity of spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs), and an equivalent cell state is not present in females. Maintaining this unique SSC epigenetic state, while keeping to germ cell-intrinsic developmental programs, poses challenges for the correct completion of spermatogenesis. In this review, we highlight the origins of spermatogonia, comparing and contrasting them with female germline development to emphasize specific developmental processes that are required for their function as germline stem cells. We identify gaps in our current knowledge about human SSCs and further discuss the impact of the unique regulation of the sex chromosomes during spermatogenesis, and the roles of X-linked genes in SSCs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kotaro Sasaki
- Biomedical Sciences, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, United States.
| | - Mahesh Sangrithi
- King's College London, Centre for Gene Therapy and Regenerative Medicine, 28th Floor, Tower Wing, Guy's Hospital, Great Maze Pond, London, SE1 9RT, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Lin H, Cossu IG, Leu NA, Deshpande AJ, Bernt KM, Luo M, Wang PJ. The DOT1L-MLLT10 complex regulates male fertility and promotes histone removal during spermiogenesis. Development 2023; 150:dev201501. [PMID: 37082953 PMCID: PMC10259658 DOI: 10.1242/dev.201501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 04/22/2023]
Abstract
Histone modifications regulate chromatin remodeling and gene expression in development and diseases. DOT1L, the sole histone H3K79 methyltransferase, is essential for embryonic development. Here, we report that DOT1L regulates male fertility in mouse. DOT1L associates with MLLT10 in testis. DOT1L and MLLT10 localize to the sex chromatin in meiotic and post-meiotic germ cells in an inter-dependent manner. Loss of either DOT1L or MLLT10 leads to reduced testis weight, decreased sperm count and male subfertility. H3K79me2 is abundant in elongating spermatids, which undergo the dramatic histone-to-protamine transition. Both DOT1L and MLLT10 are essential for H3K79me2 modification in germ cells. Strikingly, histones are substantially retained in epididymal sperm from either DOT1L- or MLLT10-deficient mice. These results demonstrate that H3K79 methylation promotes histone replacement during spermiogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Huijuan Lin
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Developmentally Originated Disease, Department of Histoembryology, TaiKang Medical School (School of Basic Medical Sciences), Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Isabella G. Cossu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - N. Adrian Leu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Aniruddha J. Deshpande
- Tumor Initiation & Maintenance Program, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Kathrin M. Bernt
- Division of Pediatric Oncology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania and Abramson Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Mengcheng Luo
- Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Developmentally Originated Disease, Department of Histoembryology, TaiKang Medical School (School of Basic Medical Sciences), Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - P. Jeremy Wang
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Miller SC, MacDonald CC, Kellogg MK, Karamysheva ZN, Karamyshev AL. Specialized Ribosomes in Health and Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24076334. [PMID: 37047306 PMCID: PMC10093926 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24076334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Ribosomal heterogeneity exists within cells and between different cell types, at specific developmental stages, and occurs in response to environmental stimuli. Mounting evidence supports the existence of specialized ribosomes, or specific changes to the ribosome that regulate the translation of a specific group of transcripts. These alterations have been shown to affect the affinity of ribosomes for certain mRNAs or change the cotranslational folding of nascent polypeptides at the exit tunnel. The identification of specialized ribosomes requires evidence of the incorporation of different ribosomal proteins or of modifications to rRNA and/or protein that lead(s) to physiologically relevant changes in translation. In this review, we summarize ribosomal heterogeneity and specialization in mammals and discuss their relevance to several human diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah C. Miller
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA
| | - Clinton C. MacDonald
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA
| | - Morgana K. Kellogg
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA
| | | | - Andrey L. Karamyshev
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-806-743-4102
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Odroniec A, Olszewska M, Kurpisz M. Epigenetic markers in the embryonal germ cell development and spermatogenesis. Basic Clin Androl 2023; 33:6. [PMID: 36814207 PMCID: PMC9948345 DOI: 10.1186/s12610-022-00179-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is the process of generation of male reproductive cells from spermatogonial stem cells in the seminiferous epithelium of the testis. During spermatogenesis, key spermatogenic events such as stem cell self-renewal and commitment to meiosis, meiotic recombination, meiotic sex chromosome inactivation, followed by cellular and chromatin remodeling of elongating spermatids occur, leading to sperm cell production. All the mentioned events are at least partially controlled by the epigenetic modifications of DNA and histones. Additionally, during embryonal development in primordial germ cells, global epigenetic reprogramming of DNA occurs. In this review, we summarized the most important epigenetic modifications in the particular stages of germ cell development, in DNA and histone proteins, starting from primordial germ cells, during embryonal development, and ending with histone-to-protamine transition during spermiogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amadeusz Odroniec
- grid.413454.30000 0001 1958 0162Institute of Human Genetics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Strzeszynska 32, 60–479 Poznan, Poland
| | - Marta Olszewska
- Institute of Human Genetics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Strzeszynska 32, 60-479, Poznan, Poland.
| | - Maciej Kurpisz
- grid.413454.30000 0001 1958 0162Institute of Human Genetics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Strzeszynska 32, 60–479 Poznan, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Suzuki T. Overview of single-cell RNA sequencing analysis and its application to spermatogenesis research. Reprod Med Biol 2023; 22:e12502. [PMID: 36726594 PMCID: PMC9884325 DOI: 10.1002/rmb2.12502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Revised: 12/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Single-cell transcriptomics allows parallel analysis of multiple cell types in tissues. Because testes comprise somatic cells and germ cells at various stages of spermatogenesis, single-cell RNA sequencing is a powerful tool for investigating the complex process of spermatogenesis. However, single-cell RNA sequencing analysis needs extensive knowledge of experimental technologies and bioinformatics, making it difficult for many, particularly experimental biologists and clinicians, to use it. Methods Aiming to make single-cell RNA sequencing analysis familiar, this review article presents an overview of experimental and computational methods for single-cell RNA sequencing analysis with a history of transcriptomics. In addition, combining the PubMed search and manual curation, this review also provides a summary of recent novel insights into human and mouse spermatogenesis obtained using single-cell RNA sequencing analyses. Main Findings Single-cell RNA sequencing identified mesenchymal cells and type II innate lymphoid cells as novel testicular cell types in the adult mouse testes, as well as detailed subtypes of germ cells. This review outlines recent discoveries into germ cell development and subtypes, somatic cell development, and cell-cell interactions. Conclusion The findings on spermatogenesis obtained using single-cell RNA sequencing may contribute to a deeper understanding of spermatogenesis and provide new directions for male fertility therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Takahiro Suzuki
- RIKEN Center for Integrated Medical Science (IMS)Yokohama CityKanagawaJapan
- Graduate School of Medical Life ScienceYokohama City UniversityYokohama CityKanagawaJapan
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Prakash Yadav R, Leskinen S, Ma L, Mäkelä JA, Kotaja N. Chromatin remodelers HELLS, WDHD1 and BAZ1A are dynamically expressed during mouse spermatogenesis. Reproduction 2023; 165:49-63. [PMID: 36194437 PMCID: PMC9782464 DOI: 10.1530/rep-22-0240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
In brief Proper regulation of heterochromatin is critical for spermatogenesis. This study reveals the dynamic localization patterns of distinct chromatin regulators during spermatogenesis and disrupted sex chromatin status in spermatocytes in the absence of DICER. Abstract Heterochromatin is dynamically formed and organized in differentiating male germ cells, and its proper regulation is a prerequisite for normal spermatogenesis. While heterochromatin is generally transcriptionally silent, we have previously shown that major satellite repeat (MSR) DNA in the pericentric heterochromatin (PCH) is transcribed during spermatogenesis. We have also shown that DICER associates with PCH and is involved in the regulation of MSR-derived transcripts. To shed light on the heterochromatin regulation in the male germline, we studied the expression, localization and heterochromatin association of selected testis-enriched chromatin regulators in the mouse testis. Our results show that HELLS, WDHD1 and BAZ1A are dynamically expressed during spermatogenesis. They display limited overlap in expression, suggesting involvement in distinct heterochromatin-associated processes at different steps of differentiation. We also show that HELLS and BAZ1A interact with DICER and MSR chromatin. Interestingly, deletion of Dicer1 affects the sex chromosome heterochromatin status in late pachytene spermatocytes, as demonstrated by mislocalization of Polycomb protein family member SCML1 to the sex body. These data substantiate the importance of dynamic heterochromatin regulation during spermatogenesis and emphasize the key role of DICER in the maintenance of chromatin status in meiotic male germ cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ram Prakash Yadav
- 1Institute of Biomedicine, Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology Unit, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Sini Leskinen
- 1Institute of Biomedicine, Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology Unit, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Lin Ma
- 1Institute of Biomedicine, Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology Unit, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Juho-Antti Mäkelä
- 1Institute of Biomedicine, Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology Unit, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Noora Kotaja
- 1Institute of Biomedicine, Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology Unit, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Kopania EEK, Watson EM, Rathje CC, Skinner BM, Ellis PJI, Larson EL, Good JM. The contribution of sex chromosome conflict to disrupted spermatogenesis in hybrid house mice. Genetics 2022; 222:iyac151. [PMID: 36194004 PMCID: PMC9713461 DOI: 10.1093/genetics/iyac151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Incompatibilities on the sex chromosomes are important in the evolution of hybrid male sterility, but the evolutionary forces underlying this phenomenon are unclear. House mice (Mus musculus) lineages have provided powerful models for understanding the genetic basis of hybrid male sterility. X chromosome-autosome interactions cause strong incompatibilities in M. musculus F1 hybrids, but variation in sterility phenotypes suggests a more complex genetic basis. In addition, XY chromosome conflict has resulted in rapid expansions of ampliconic genes with dosage-dependent expression that is essential to spermatogenesis. Here, we evaluated the contribution of XY lineage mismatch to male fertility and stage-specific gene expression in hybrid mice. We performed backcrosses between two house mouse subspecies to generate reciprocal Y-introgression strains and used these strains to test the effects of XY mismatch in hybrids. Our transcriptome analyses of sorted spermatid cells revealed widespread overexpression of the X chromosome in sterile F1 hybrids independent of Y chromosome subspecies origin. Thus, postmeiotic overexpression of the X chromosome in sterile F1 mouse hybrids is likely a downstream consequence of disrupted meiotic X-inactivation rather than XY gene copy number imbalance. Y chromosome introgression did result in subfertility phenotypes and disrupted expression of several autosomal genes in mice with an otherwise nonhybrid genomic background, suggesting that Y-linked incompatibilities contribute to reproductive barriers, but likely not as a direct consequence of XY conflict. Collectively, these findings suggest that rapid sex chromosome gene family evolution driven by genomic conflict has not resulted in strong male reproductive barriers between these subspecies of house mice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emily E K Kopania
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of Montana, Missoula, MT 59812, USA
| | - Eleanor M Watson
- School of Life Sciences, University of Essex, Colchester CO4 3SQ, UK
| | - Claudia C Rathje
- School of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury CT2 7NJ, UK
| | | | - Peter J I Ellis
- School of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury CT2 7NJ, UK
| | - Erica L Larson
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Denver, Denver, CO 80208, USA
| | - Jeffrey M Good
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of Montana, Missoula, MT 59812, USA
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Abe H, Yeh YH, Munakata Y, Ishiguro KI, Andreassen PR, Namekawa SH. Active DNA damage response signaling initiates and maintains meiotic sex chromosome inactivation. Nat Commun 2022; 13:7212. [PMID: 36443288 PMCID: PMC9705562 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-34295-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Meiotic sex chromosome inactivation (MSCI) is an essential process in the male germline. While genetic experiments have established that the DNA damage response (DDR) pathway directs MSCI, due to limitations to the experimental systems available, mechanisms underlying MSCI remain largely unknown. Here we establish a system to study MSCI ex vivo, based on a short-term culture method, and demonstrate that active DDR signaling is required both to initiate and maintain MSCI via a dynamic and reversible process. DDR-directed MSCI follows two layers of modifications: active DDR-dependent reversible processes and irreversible histone post-translational modifications. Further, the DDR initiates MSCI independent of the downstream repressive histone mark H3K9 trimethylation (H3K9me3), thereby demonstrating that active DDR signaling is the primary mechanism of silencing in MSCI. By unveiling the dynamic nature of MSCI, and its governance by active DDR signals, our study highlights the sex chromosomes as an active signaling hub in meiosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hironori Abe
- grid.27860.3b0000 0004 1936 9684Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Davis, CA 95616 USA ,grid.274841.c0000 0001 0660 6749Department of Chromosome Biology, Institute of Molecular Embryology and Genetics (IMEG), Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, 860-0811 Japan
| | - Yu-Han Yeh
- grid.27860.3b0000 0004 1936 9684Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Davis, CA 95616 USA
| | - Yasuhisa Munakata
- grid.27860.3b0000 0004 1936 9684Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Davis, CA 95616 USA
| | - Kei-Ichiro Ishiguro
- grid.274841.c0000 0001 0660 6749Department of Chromosome Biology, Institute of Molecular Embryology and Genetics (IMEG), Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, 860-0811 Japan
| | - Paul R. Andreassen
- grid.24827.3b0000 0001 2179 9593Division of Experimental Hematology & Cancer Biology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45229 USA
| | - Satoshi H. Namekawa
- grid.27860.3b0000 0004 1936 9684Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Davis, CA 95616 USA
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Montgomery SA, Hisanaga T, Wang N, Axelsson E, Akimcheva S, Sramek M, Liu C, Berger F. Polycomb-mediated repression of paternal chromosomes maintains haploid dosage in diploid embryos of Marchantia. eLife 2022; 11:79258. [PMID: 35996955 PMCID: PMC9402228 DOI: 10.7554/elife.79258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Complex mechanisms regulate gene dosage throughout eukaryotic life cycles. Mechanisms controlling gene dosage have been extensively studied in animals, however it is unknown how generalizable these mechanisms are to diverse eukaryotes. Here, we use the haploid plant Marchantia polymorpha to assess gene dosage control in its short-lived diploid embryo. We show that throughout embryogenesis, paternal chromosomes are repressed resulting in functional haploidy. The paternal genome is targeted for genomic imprinting by the Polycomb mark H3K27me3 starting at fertilization, rendering the maternal genome in control of embryogenesis. Maintaining haploid gene dosage by this new form of imprinting is essential for embryonic development. Our findings illustrate how haploid-dominant species can regulate gene dosage through paternal chromosome inactivation and initiates the exploration of the link between life cycle history and gene dosage in a broader range of organisms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sean Akira Montgomery
- Gregor Mendel Institute, Austrian Academy of Sciences, Vienna BioCenter, Vienna, Austria.,Vienna BioCenter PhD Program, Doctoral School of the University of Vienna and Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Tetsuya Hisanaga
- Gregor Mendel Institute, Austrian Academy of Sciences, Vienna BioCenter, Vienna, Austria
| | - Nan Wang
- Institute of Biology, University of Hohenheim, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Elin Axelsson
- Gregor Mendel Institute, Austrian Academy of Sciences, Vienna BioCenter, Vienna, Austria
| | - Svetlana Akimcheva
- Gregor Mendel Institute, Austrian Academy of Sciences, Vienna BioCenter, Vienna, Austria
| | - Milos Sramek
- Gregor Mendel Institute, Austrian Academy of Sciences, Vienna BioCenter, Vienna, Austria
| | - Chang Liu
- Institute of Biology, University of Hohenheim, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Frédéric Berger
- Gregor Mendel Institute, Austrian Academy of Sciences, Vienna BioCenter, Vienna, Austria
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Carro MDLM, Grimson A, Cohen PE. Small RNAs and their protein partners in animal meiosis. Curr Top Dev Biol 2022; 151:245-279. [PMID: 36681472 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ctdb.2022.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Meiosis is characterized by highly regulated transitions in gene expression that require diverse mechanisms of gene regulation. For example, in male mammals, transcription undergoes a global shut-down in early prophase I of meiosis, followed by increasing transcriptional activity into pachynema. Later, as spermiogenesis proceeds, the histones bound to DNA are replaced with transition proteins, which are themselves replaced with protamines, resulting in a highly condensed nucleus with repressed transcriptional activity. In addition, two specialized gene silencing events take place during prophase I: meiotic silencing of unsynapsed chromatin (MSUC), and the sex chromatin specific mechanism, meiotic sex chromosome inactivation (MSCI). Notably, conserved roles for the RNA binding protein (RBP) machinery that functions with small non-coding RNAs have been described as participating in these meiosis-specific mechanisms, suggesting that RNA-mediated gene regulation is critical for fertility in many species. Here, we review roles of small RNAs and their associated RBPs in meiosis-related processes such as centromere function, silencing of unpaired chromatin and meiotic recombination. We will discuss the emerging evidence of non-canonical functions of these components in meiosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- María de Las Mercedes Carro
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States; Cornell Reproductive Sciences Center (CoRe), Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States
| | - Andrew Grimson
- Cornell Reproductive Sciences Center (CoRe), Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States; Department of Molecular Biology & Genetics, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States.
| | - Paula E Cohen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States; Cornell Reproductive Sciences Center (CoRe), Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Chukrallah LG, Badrinath A, Vittor GG, Snyder EM. ADAD2 regulates heterochromatin in meiotic and post-meiotic male germ cells via translation of MDC1. J Cell Sci 2022; 135:jcs259196. [PMID: 35191498 PMCID: PMC8919335 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.259196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 01/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Male germ cells establish a unique heterochromatin domain, the XY-body, early in meiosis. How this domain is maintained through the end of meiosis and into post-meiotic germ cell differentiation is poorly understood. ADAD2 is a late meiotic male germ cell-specific RNA-binding protein, loss of which leads to post-meiotic germ cell defects. Analysis of ribosome association in Adad2 mouse mutants revealed defective translation of Mdc1, a key regulator of XY-body formation, late in meiosis. As a result, Adad2 mutants show normal establishment but failed maintenance of the XY-body. Observed XY-body defects are concurrent with abnormal autosomal heterochromatin and ultimately lead to severely perturbed post-meiotic germ cell heterochromatin and cell death. These findings highlight the requirement of ADAD2 for Mdc1 translation, the role of MDC1 in maintaining meiotic male germ cell heterochromatin and the importance of late meiotic heterochromatin for normal post-meiotic germ cell differentiation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Aditi Badrinath
- Department of Animal Science, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA
| | - Gabrielle G. Vittor
- Department of Animal Science, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA
| | - Elizabeth M. Snyder
- Department of Animal Science, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Hunnicutt KE, Good JM, Larson EL. Unraveling patterns of disrupted gene expression across a complex tissue. Evolution 2022; 76:275-291. [PMID: 34882778 PMCID: PMC9355168 DOI: 10.1111/evo.14420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2021] [Revised: 11/11/2021] [Accepted: 11/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Whole tissue RNASeq is the standard approach for studying gene expression divergence in evolutionary biology and provides a snapshot of the comprehensive transcriptome for a given tissue. However, whole tissues consist of diverse cell types differing in expression profiles, and the cellular composition of these tissues can evolve across species. Here, we investigate the effects of different cellular composition on whole tissue expression profiles. We compared gene expression from whole testes and enriched spermatogenesis populations in two species of house mice, Mus musculus musculus and M. m. domesticus, and their sterile and fertile F1 hybrids, which differ in both cellular composition and regulatory dynamics. We found that cellular composition differences skewed expression profiles and differential gene expression in whole testes samples. Importantly, both approaches were able to detect large-scale patterns such as disrupted X chromosome expression, although whole testes sampling resulted in decreased power to detect differentially expressed genes. We encourage researchers to account for histology in RNASeq and consider methods that reduce sample complexity whenever feasible. Ultimately, we show that differences in cellular composition between tissues can modify expression profiles, potentially altering inferred gene ontological processes, insights into gene network evolution, and processes governing gene expression evolution.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kelsie E Hunnicutt
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Denver, Denver, Colorado, 80208
| | - Jeffrey M Good
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of Montana, Missoula, Montana, 59812
| | - Erica L Larson
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Denver, Denver, Colorado, 80208
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Kopania EEK, Larson EL, Callahan C, Keeble S, Good JM. Molecular Evolution across Mouse Spermatogenesis. Mol Biol Evol 2022; 39:6517785. [PMID: 35099536 PMCID: PMC8844503 DOI: 10.1093/molbev/msac023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Genes involved in spermatogenesis tend to evolve rapidly, but we lack a clear understanding of how protein sequences and patterns of gene expression evolve across this complex developmental process. We used fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) to generate expression data for early (meiotic) and late (postmeiotic) cell types across 13 inbred strains of mice (Mus) spanning ∼7 My of evolution. We used these comparative developmental data to investigate the evolution of lineage-specific expression, protein-coding sequences, and expression levels. We found increased lineage specificity and more rapid protein-coding and expression divergence during late spermatogenesis, suggesting that signatures of rapid testis molecular evolution are punctuated across sperm development. Despite strong overall developmental parallels in these components of molecular evolution, protein and expression divergences were only weakly correlated across genes. We detected more rapid protein evolution on the X chromosome relative to the autosomes, whereas X-linked gene expression tended to be relatively more conserved likely reflecting chromosome-specific regulatory constraints. Using allele-specific FACS expression data from crosses between four strains, we found that the relative contributions of different regulatory mechanisms also differed between cell types. Genes showing cis-regulatory changes were more common late in spermatogenesis, and tended to be associated with larger differences in expression levels and greater expression divergence between species. In contrast, genes with trans-acting changes were more common early and tended to be more conserved across species. Our findings advance understanding of gene evolution across spermatogenesis and underscore the fundamental importance of developmental context in molecular evolutionary studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emily E K Kopania
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of Montana, Missoula, MT, 59812, USA
| | - Erica L Larson
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Denver, Denver, CO, 80208, USA
| | - Colin Callahan
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of Montana, Missoula, MT, 59812, USA
| | - Sara Keeble
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of Montana, Missoula, MT, 59812, USA
| | - Jeffrey M Good
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of Montana, Missoula, MT, 59812, USA
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Alavattam KG, Maezawa S, Andreassen PR, Namekawa SH. Meiotic sex chromosome inactivation and the XY body: a phase separation hypothesis. Cell Mol Life Sci 2021; 79:18. [PMID: 34971404 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-021-04075-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Revised: 09/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/14/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
In mammalian male meiosis, the heterologous X and Y chromosomes remain unsynapsed and, as a result, are subject to meiotic sex chromosome inactivation (MSCI). MSCI is required for the successful completion of spermatogenesis. Following the initiation of MSCI, the X and Y chromosomes undergo various epigenetic modifications and are transformed into a nuclear body termed the XY body. Here, we review the mechanisms underlying the initiation of two essential, sequential processes in meiotic prophase I: MSCI and XY-body formation. The initiation of MSCI is directed by the action of DNA damage response (DDR) pathways; downstream of the DDR, unique epigenetic states are established, leading to the formation of the XY body. Accumulating evidence suggests that MSCI and subsequent XY-body formation may be driven by phase separation, a physical process that governs the formation of membraneless organelles and other biomolecular condensates. Thus, here we gather literature-based evidence to explore a phase separation hypothesis for the initiation of MSCI and the formation of the XY body.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kris G Alavattam
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA.,Center for Cardiovascular Biology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98109, USA.,Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98109, USA.,Department of Genome Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA
| | - So Maezawa
- Faculty of Science and Technology, Department of Applied Biological Science, Tokyo University of Science, Chiba, 278-8510, Japan
| | - Paul R Andreassen
- Division of Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
| | - Satoshi H Namekawa
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Davis, CA, 95616, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Ishiguro KI, Shimada R. MEIOSIN directs initiation of meiosis and subsequent meiotic prophase program during spermatogenesis. Genes Genet Syst 2021; 97:27-39. [PMID: 34955498 DOI: 10.1266/ggs.21-00054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Meiosis is a crucial process for spermatogenesis and oogenesis. Initiation of meiosis coincides with spermatocyte differentiation and is followed by meiotic prophase, a prolonged G2 phase that ensures the completion of numerous meiosis-specific chromosome events. During meiotic prophase, chromosomes are organized into axis-loop structures, which underlie meiosis-specific events such as meiotic recombination and homolog synapsis. In spermatocytes, meiotic prophase is accompanied by robust alterations of gene expression programs and chromatin status for subsequent sperm production. The mechanisms regulating meiotic initiation and subsequent meiotic prophase programs are enigmatic. Recently, we discovered MEIOSIN (Meiosis initiator), a DNA-binding protein that directs the switch from mitosis to meiosis. This review mainly focuses on how MEIOSIN is involved in meiotic initiation and the meiotic prophase program during spermatogenesis. Further, we discuss the downstream genes activated by MEIOSIN, which are crucial for meiotic prophase-specific events, from the viewpoint of chromosome dynamics and the gene expression program.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kei-Ichiro Ishiguro
- Department of Chromosome Biology, Institute of Molecular Embryology and Genetics (IMEG), Kumamoto University
| | - Ryuki Shimada
- Department of Chromosome Biology, Institute of Molecular Embryology and Genetics (IMEG), Kumamoto University
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Bredemeyer KR, Seabury CM, Stickney MJ, McCarrey JR, vonHoldt BM, Murphy WJ. Rapid Macrosatellite Evolution Promotes X-Linked Hybrid Male Sterility in a Feline Interspecies Cross. Mol Biol Evol 2021; 38:5588-5609. [PMID: 34519828 PMCID: PMC8662614 DOI: 10.1093/molbev/msab274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The sterility or inviability of hybrid offspring produced from an interspecific mating result from incompatibilities between parental genotypes that are thought to result from divergence of loci involved in epistatic interactions. However, attributes contributing to the rapid evolution of these regions also complicates their assembly, thus discovery of candidate hybrid sterility loci is difficult and has been restricted to a small number of model systems. Here we reported rapid interspecific divergence at the DXZ4 macrosatellite locus in an interspecific cross between two closely related mammalian species: the domestic cat (Felis silvestris catus) and the Jungle cat (Felis chaus). DXZ4 is an interesting candidate due to its structural complexity, copy number variability, and described role in the critical yet complex biological process of X-chromosome inactivation. However, the full structure of DXZ4 was absent or incomplete in nearly every available mammalian genome assembly given its repetitive complexity. We compared highly continuous genomes for three cat species, each containing a complete DXZ4 locus, and discovered that the felid DXZ4 locus differs substantially from the human ortholog, and that it varies in copy number between cat species. Additionally, we reported expression, methylation, and structural conformation profiles of DXZ4 and the X chromosome during stages of spermatogenesis that have been previously associated with hybrid male sterility. Collectively, these findings suggest a new role for DXZ4 in male meiosis and a mechanism for feline interspecific incompatibility through rapid satellite divergence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kevin R Bredemeyer
- Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
- Interdisciplinary Program in Genetics and Genomics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | | | - Mark J Stickney
- Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - John R McCarrey
- Department of Biology, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | | | - William J Murphy
- Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
- Interdisciplinary Program in Genetics and Genomics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
X Chromosome Inactivation during Grasshopper Spermatogenesis. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:genes12121844. [PMID: 34946793 PMCID: PMC8700825 DOI: 10.3390/genes12121844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2021] [Revised: 11/14/2021] [Accepted: 11/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Regulation of transcriptional activity during meiosis depends on the interrelated processes of recombination and synapsis. In eutherian mammal spermatocytes, transcription levels change during prophase-I, being low at the onset of meiosis but highly increased from pachytene up to the end of diplotene. However, X and Y chromosomes, which usually present unsynapsed regions throughout prophase-I in male meiosis, undergo a specific pattern of transcriptional inactivation. The interdependence of synapsis and transcription has mainly been studied in mammals, basically in mouse, but our knowledge in other unrelated phylogenetically species is more limited. To gain new insights on this issue, here we analyzed the relationship between synapsis and transcription in spermatocytes of the grasshopper Eyprepocnemis plorans. Autosomal chromosomes of this species achieve complete synapsis; however, the single X sex chromosome remains always unsynapsed and behaves as a univalent. We studied transcription in meiosis by immunolabeling with RNA polymerase II phosphorylated at serine 2 and found that whereas autosomes are active from leptotene up to diakinesis, the X chromosome is inactive throughout meiosis. This inactivation is accompanied by the accumulation of, at least, two repressive epigenetic modifications: H3 methylated at lysine 9 and H2AX phosphorylated at serine 139. Furthermore, we identified that X chromosome inactivation occurs in premeiotic spermatogonia. Overall, our results indicate: (i) transcription regulation in E. plorans spermatogenesis differs from the canonical pattern found in mammals and (ii) X chromosome inactivation is likely preceded by a process of heterochromatinization before the initiation of meiosis.
Collapse
|
26
|
Subrini J, Turner J. Y chromosome functions in mammalian spermatogenesis. eLife 2021; 10:67345. [PMID: 34606444 PMCID: PMC8489898 DOI: 10.7554/elife.67345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The mammalian Y chromosome is critical for male sex determination and spermatogenesis. However, linking each Y gene to specific aspects of male reproduction has been challenging. As the Y chromosome is notoriously hard to sequence and target, functional studies have mostly relied on transgene-rescue approaches using mouse models with large multi-gene deletions. These experimental limitations have oriented the field toward the search for a minimum set of Y genes necessary for male reproduction. Here, considering Y-chromosome evolutionary history and decades of discoveries, we review the current state of research on its function in spermatogenesis and reassess the view that many Y genes are disposable for male reproduction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jeremie Subrini
- Sex Chromosome Biology Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, United Kingdom
| | - James Turner
- Sex Chromosome Biology Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Liu N, Qadri F, Busch H, Huegel S, Sihn G, Chuykin I, Hartmann E, Bader M, Rother F. Kpna6 deficiency causes infertility in male mice by disrupting spermatogenesis. Development 2021; 148:272018. [PMID: 34473250 PMCID: PMC8513612 DOI: 10.1242/dev.198374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2020] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is driven by an ordered series of events, which rely on trafficking of specific proteins between nucleus and cytoplasm. The karyopherin α family of proteins mediates movement of specific cargo proteins when bound to karyopherin β. Karyopherin α genes have distinct expression patterns in mouse testis, implying they may have unique roles during mammalian spermatogenesis. Here, we use a loss-of-function approach to determine specifically the role of Kpna6 in spermatogenesis and male fertility. We show that ablation of Kpna6 in male mice leads to infertility and has multiple cumulative effects on both germ cells and Sertoli cells. Kpna6-deficient mice exhibit impaired Sertoli cell function, including loss of Sertoli cells and a compromised nuclear localization of the androgen receptor. Furthermore, our data demonstrate devastating defects on spermiogenesis, including incomplete sperm maturation and a massive reduction in sperm number, accompanied by disturbed histone-protamine exchange, differential localization of the transcriptional regulator BRWD1 and altered expression of RFX2 target genes. Our work uncovers an essential role of Kpna6 in spermatogenesis and, hence, in male fertility. Summary: Two different mouse models delineate the morphological and functional impact of Kpna6 on spermatogenesis and Sertoli cell function and show that this protein is crucial for fertility in male mice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Na Liu
- Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, Berlin 13125, Germany
| | | | - Hauke Busch
- Medical Systems Biology Division, Lübeck Institute of Experimental Dermatology and Institute for Cardiogenetics, University of Lübeck, Lübeck 23562, Germany
| | - Stefanie Huegel
- Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, Berlin 13125, Germany.,Institute for Biology, Center for Structural and Cellular Biology in Medicine, University of Lübeck, Lübeck 23562, Germany
| | - Gabin Sihn
- Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, Berlin 13125, Germany
| | - Ilya Chuykin
- Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, Berlin 13125, Germany.,Department of Cell Developmental and Regenerative Biology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029-6574, USA
| | - Enno Hartmann
- Institute for Biology, Center for Structural and Cellular Biology in Medicine, University of Lübeck, Lübeck 23562, Germany
| | - Michael Bader
- Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, Berlin 13125, Germany.,Institute for Biology, Center for Structural and Cellular Biology in Medicine, University of Lübeck, Lübeck 23562, Germany
| | - Franziska Rother
- Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, Berlin 13125, Germany.,Institute for Biology, Center for Structural and Cellular Biology in Medicine, University of Lübeck, Lübeck 23562, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Chromosomal positioning in spermatogenic cells is influenced by chromosomal factors associated with gene activity, bouquet formation and meiotic sex chromosome inactivation. Chromosoma 2021; 130:163-175. [PMID: 34231035 DOI: 10.1007/s00412-021-00761-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Revised: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Chromosome territoriality is not random along the cell cycle and it is mainly governed by intrinsic chromosome factors and gene expression patterns. Conversely, very few studies have explored the factors that determine chromosome territoriality and its influencing factors during meiosis. In this study, we analysed chromosome positioning in murine spermatogenic cells using three-dimensionally fluorescence in situ hybridization-based methodology, which allows the analysis of the entire karyotype. The main objective of the study was to decipher chromosome positioning in a radial axis (all analysed germ-cell nuclei) and longitudinal axis (only spermatozoa) and to identify the chromosomal factors that regulate such an arrangement. Results demonstrated that the radial positioning of chromosomes during spermatogenesis was cell-type specific and influenced by chromosomal factors associated to gene activity. Chromosomes with specific features that enhance transcription (high GC content, high gene density and high numbers of predicted expressed genes) were preferentially observed in the inner part of the nucleus in virtually all cell types. Moreover, the position of the sex chromosomes was influenced by their transcriptional status, from the periphery of the nucleus when its activity was repressed (pachytene) to a more internal position when it is partially activated (spermatid). At pachytene, chromosome positioning was also influenced by chromosome size due to the bouquet formation. Longitudinal chromosome positioning in the sperm nucleus was not random either, suggesting the importance of ordered longitudinal positioning for the release and activation of the paternal genome after fertilisation.
Collapse
|
29
|
Tian H, Petkov PM. Mouse EWSR1 is crucial for spermatid post-meiotic transcription and spermiogenesis. Development 2021; 148:269056. [PMID: 34100066 DOI: 10.1242/dev.199414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is precisely controlled by complex gene-expression programs. During mammalian male germ-cell development, a crucial feature is the repression of transcription before spermatid elongation. Previously, we discovered that the RNA-binding protein EWSR1 plays an important role in meiotic recombination in mouse, and showed that EWSR1 is highly expressed in late meiotic cells and post-meiotic cells. Here, we used an Ewsr1 pachytene stage-specific knockout mouse model to study the roles of Ewsr1 in late meiotic prophase I and in spermatozoa maturation. We show that loss of EWSR1 in late meiotic prophase I does not affect proper meiosis completion, but does result in defective spermatid elongation and chromocenter formation in the developing germ cells. As a result, male mice lacking EWSR1 after pachynema are sterile. We found that, in Ewsr1 CKO round spermatids, transition from a meiotic gene-expression program to a post-meiotic and spermatid gene expression program related to DNA condensation is impaired, suggesting that EWSR1 plays an important role in regulation of spermiogenesis-related mRNA synthesis necessary for spermatid differentiation into mature sperm.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hui Tian
- The Jackson Laboratory, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
30
|
Horisawa-Takada Y, Kodera C, Takemoto K, Sakashita A, Horisawa K, Maeda R, Shimada R, Usuki S, Fujimura S, Tani N, Matsuura K, Akiyama T, Suzuki A, Niwa H, Tachibana M, Ohba T, Katabuchi H, Namekawa SH, Araki K, Ishiguro KI. Meiosis-specific ZFP541 repressor complex promotes developmental progression of meiotic prophase towards completion during mouse spermatogenesis. Nat Commun 2021; 12:3184. [PMID: 34075040 PMCID: PMC8169937 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-23378-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
During spermatogenesis, meiosis is accompanied by a robust alteration in gene expression and chromatin status. However, it remains elusive how the meiotic transcriptional program is established to ensure completion of meiotic prophase. Here, we identify a protein complex that consists of germ-cell-specific zinc-finger protein ZFP541 and its interactor KCTD19 as the key transcriptional regulators in mouse meiotic prophase progression. Our genetic study shows that ZFP541 and KCTD19 are co-expressed from pachytene onward and play an essential role in the completion of the meiotic prophase program in the testis. Furthermore, our ChIP-seq and transcriptome analyses identify that ZFP541 binds to and suppresses a broad range of genes whose function is associated with biological processes of transcriptional regulation and covalent chromatin modification. The present study demonstrates that a germ-cell specific complex that contains ZFP541 and KCTD19 promotes the progression of meiotic prophase towards completion in male mice, and triggers the reconstruction of the transcriptional network and chromatin organization leading to post-meiotic development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuki Horisawa-Takada
- Department of Chromosome Biology, Institute of Molecular Embryology and Genetics (IMEG), Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Chisato Kodera
- Department of Chromosome Biology, Institute of Molecular Embryology and Genetics (IMEG), Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Life Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Kazumasa Takemoto
- Department of Chromosome Biology, Institute of Molecular Embryology and Genetics (IMEG), Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Akihiko Sakashita
- Department of Molecular Biology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kenichi Horisawa
- Division of Organogenesis and Regeneration, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Ryo Maeda
- Graduate School of Frontier Biosciences, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Ryuki Shimada
- Department of Chromosome Biology, Institute of Molecular Embryology and Genetics (IMEG), Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Shingo Usuki
- Liaison Laboratory Research Promotion Center, IMEG, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Sayoko Fujimura
- Liaison Laboratory Research Promotion Center, IMEG, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Naoki Tani
- Liaison Laboratory Research Promotion Center, IMEG, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Kumi Matsuura
- Department of Pluripotent Stem Cell Biology, IMEG, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Tomohiko Akiyama
- Department of Systems Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Atsushi Suzuki
- Division of Organogenesis and Regeneration, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Hitoshi Niwa
- Department of Pluripotent Stem Cell Biology, IMEG, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Makoto Tachibana
- Graduate School of Frontier Biosciences, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Takashi Ohba
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Life Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Hidetaka Katabuchi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Life Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Satoshi H Namekawa
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Kimi Araki
- Institute of Resource Development and Analysis, and Center for Metabolic Regulation of Healthy Aging, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Kei-Ichiro Ishiguro
- Department of Chromosome Biology, Institute of Molecular Embryology and Genetics (IMEG), Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Couger MB, Roy SW, Anderson N, Gozashti L, Pirro S, Millward LS, Kim M, Kilburn D, Liu KJ, Wilson TM, Epps CW, Dizney L, Ruedas LA, Campbell P. Sex chromosome transformation and the origin of a male-specific X chromosome in the creeping vole. Science 2021; 372:592-600. [PMID: 33958470 DOI: 10.1126/science.abg7019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The mammalian sex chromosome system (XX female/XY male) is ancient and highly conserved. The sex chromosome karyotype of the creeping vole (Microtus oregoni) represents a long-standing anomaly, with an X chromosome that is unpaired in females (X0) and exclusively maternally transmitted. We produced a highly contiguous male genome assembly, together with short-read genomes and transcriptomes for both sexes. We show that M. oregoni has lost an independently segregating Y chromosome and that the male-specific sex chromosome is a second X chromosome that is largely homologous to the maternally transmitted X. Both maternally inherited and male-specific sex chromosomes carry fragments of the ancestral Y chromosome. Consequences of this recently transformed sex chromosome system include Y-like degeneration and gene amplification on the male-specific X, expression of ancestral Y-linked genes in females, and X inactivation of the male-specific chromosome in male somatic cells. The genome of M. oregoni elucidates the processes that shape the gene content and dosage of mammalian sex chromosomes and exemplifies a rare case of plasticity in an ancient sex chromosome system.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matthew B Couger
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston MA, 02115, USA
| | - Scott W Roy
- Department of Biology, San Francisco State University, San Francisco, CA 94117, USA.,Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Merced, Merced, CA 95343, USA
| | - Noelle Anderson
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Merced, Merced, CA 95343, USA
| | - Landen Gozashti
- Department of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology and Museum of Comparative Zoology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
| | - Stacy Pirro
- Iridian Genomes, Inc., Bethesda, MD 20817, USA
| | - Lindsay S Millward
- Department of Fisheries and Wildlife, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97330, USA
| | | | | | | | - Todd M Wilson
- US Forest Service, PNW Research Station, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA
| | - Clinton W Epps
- Department of Fisheries and Wildlife, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97330, USA
| | - Laurie Dizney
- Department of Biology, University of Portland, Portland, OR 97203, USA
| | - Luis A Ruedas
- Department of Biology and Museum of Natural History, Portland State University, Portland, OR 97207, USA
| | - Polly Campbell
- Department of Evolution, Ecology, and Organismal Biology, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA 92521, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Geisinger A, Rodríguez-Casuriaga R, Benavente R. Transcriptomics of Meiosis in the Male Mouse. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:626020. [PMID: 33748111 PMCID: PMC7973102 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.626020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2020] [Accepted: 02/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Molecular studies of meiosis in mammals have been long relegated due to some intrinsic obstacles, namely the impossibility to reproduce the process in vitro, and the difficulty to obtain highly pure isolated cells of the different meiotic stages. In the recent years, some technical advances, from the improvement of flow cytometry sorting protocols to single-cell RNAseq, are enabling to profile the transcriptome and its fluctuations along the meiotic process. In this mini-review we will outline the diverse methodological approaches that have been employed, and some of the main findings that have started to arise from these studies. As for practical reasons most studies have been carried out in males, and mostly using mouse as a model, our focus will be on murine male meiosis, although also including specific comments about humans. Particularly, we will center on the controversy about gene expression during early meiotic prophase; the widespread existing gap between transcription and translation in meiotic cells; the expression patterns and potential roles of meiotic long non-coding RNAs; and the visualization of meiotic sex chromosome inactivation from the RNAseq perspective.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Geisinger
- Biochemistry-Molecular Biology, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de la República (UdelaR), Montevideo, Uruguay
- Department of Molecular Biology, Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas Clemente Estable (IIBCE), Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Rosana Rodríguez-Casuriaga
- Department of Molecular Biology, Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas Clemente Estable (IIBCE), Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Ricardo Benavente
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Biocenter, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Her YR, Wang L, Chepelev I, Manterola M, Berkovits B, Cui K, Zhao K, Wolgemuth DJ. Genome-wide chromatin occupancy of BRDT and gene expression analysis suggest transcriptional partners and specific epigenetic landscapes that regulate gene expression during spermatogenesis. Mol Reprod Dev 2021; 88:141-157. [PMID: 33469999 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2020] [Revised: 12/13/2020] [Accepted: 12/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
BRDT, a member of the BET family of double bromodomain-containing proteins, is essential for spermatogenesis in the mouse and has been postulated to be a key regulator of transcription in meiotic and post-meiotic cells. To understand the function of BRDT in these processes, we first characterized the genome-wide distribution of the BRDT binding sites, in particular within gene units, by ChIP-Seq analysis of enriched fractions of pachytene spermatocytes and round spermatids. In both cell types, BRDT binding sites were mainly located in promoters, first exons, and introns of genes. BRDT binding sites in promoters overlapped with several histone modifications and histone variants associated with active transcription, and were enriched for consensus sequences for specific transcription factors, including MYB, RFX, ETS, and ELF1 in pachytene spermatocytes, and JunD, c-Jun, CRE, and RFX in round spermatids. Subsequent integration of the ChIP-seq data with available transcriptome data revealed that stage-specific gene expression programs are associated with BRDT binding to their gene promoters, with most of the BDRT-bound genes being upregulated. Gene Ontology analysis further identified unique sets of genes enriched in diverse biological processes essential for meiosis and spermiogenesis between the two cell types, suggesting distinct developmentally stage-specific functions for BRDT. Taken together, our data suggest that BRDT cooperates with different transcription factors at distinctive chromatin regions within gene units to regulate diverse downstream target genes that function in male meiosis and spermiogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yoon Ra Her
- Department of Genetics & Development, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Li Wang
- Department of Genetics & Development, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Iouri Chepelev
- Systems Biology Center, National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA.,Center for Autoimmune Genomics and Etiology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Marcia Manterola
- Human Genetics Program, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Binyamin Berkovits
- Department of Genetics & Development, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Kairong Cui
- Systems Biology Center, National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Keji Zhao
- Systems Biology Center, National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Debra J Wolgemuth
- Department of Genetics & Development, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York, USA.,Department Obstetrics & Gynecology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York, USA.,Institute of Human Nutrition, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York, USA.,Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Yoshizaki K, Kimura R, Kobayashi H, Oki S, Kikkawa T, Mai L, Koike K, Mochizuki K, Inada H, Matsui Y, Kono T, Osumi N. Paternal age affects offspring via an epigenetic mechanism involving REST/NRSF. EMBO Rep 2021; 22:e51524. [PMID: 33399271 PMCID: PMC7857438 DOI: 10.15252/embr.202051524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2020] [Revised: 11/22/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Advanced paternal age can have deleterious effects on various traits in the next generation. Here, we establish a paternal‐aging model in mice to understand the molecular mechanisms of transgenerational epigenetics. Whole‐genome target DNA methylome analyses of sperm from aged mice reveal more hypo‐methylated genomic regions enriched in REST/NRSF binding motifs. Gene set enrichment analyses also reveal the upregulation of REST/NRSF target genes in the forebrain of embryos from aged fathers. Offspring derived from young mice administrated with a DNA de‐methylation drug phenocopy the abnormal vocal communication of pups derived from aged fathers. In conclusion, hypo‐methylation of sperm DNA can be a key molecular feature modulating neurodevelopmental programs in offspring by causing fluctuations in the expression of REST/NRSF target genes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kaichi Yoshizaki
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan.,Department of Disease Model, Aichi Developmental Disability Center, Aichi, Japan
| | - Ryuichi Kimura
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan.,Department of Drug Discovery Medicine, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Hisato Kobayashi
- NODAI Genome Research Center, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Embryology, Nara Medical University, Nara, Japan.,The Japan Agency for Medical Research and Development-Core Research for Evolutional Science and Technology (AMED-CREST), Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shinya Oki
- Department of Drug Discovery Medicine, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Takako Kikkawa
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Lingling Mai
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Kohei Koike
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan.,Department of Physiology, Center for Integrative Physiology and Molecular Medicine, Saarland University School of Medicine, Homburg, Germany
| | - Kentaro Mochizuki
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan.,Cell Resource Center for Biomedical Research, Institute of Development, Aging and Cancer, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
| | - Hitoshi Inada
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan.,Laboratory of Health and Sports Science, Division of Biomedical Engineering for Health and Welfare, Tohoku University Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, Sendai, Japan
| | - Yasuhisa Matsui
- The Japan Agency for Medical Research and Development-Core Research for Evolutional Science and Technology (AMED-CREST), Tokyo, Japan.,Cell Resource Center for Biomedical Research, Institute of Development, Aging and Cancer, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
| | - Tomohiro Kono
- The Japan Agency for Medical Research and Development-Core Research for Evolutional Science and Technology (AMED-CREST), Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Bioscience, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Noriko Osumi
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan.,The Japan Agency for Medical Research and Development-Core Research for Evolutional Science and Technology (AMED-CREST), Tokyo, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Gamble J, Chick J, Seltzer K, Graber JH, Gygi S, Braun RE, Snyder EM. An expanded mouse testis transcriptome and mass spectrometry defines novel proteins. Reproduction 2020; 159:15-26. [PMID: 31677600 DOI: 10.1530/rep-19-0092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2019] [Accepted: 10/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The testis transcriptome is exceptionally complex. Despite its complexity, previous testis transcriptome analyses relied on a reductive method for transcript identification, thus underestimating transcriptome complexity. We describe here a more complete testis transcriptome generated by combining Tuxedo, a reductive method, and spliced-RUM, a combinatorial transcript-building approach. Forty-two percent of the expanded testis transcriptome is composed of unannotated RNAs with novel isoforms of known genes and novel genes constituting 78 and 9.8% of the newly discovered transcripts, respectively. Across tissues, novel transcripts were predominantly expressed in the testis with the exception of novel isoforms which were also highly expressed in the adult ovary. Within the testis, novel isoform expression was distributed equally across all cell types while novel genes were predominantly expressed in meiotic and post-meiotic germ cells. The majority of novel isoforms retained their protein-coding potential while most novel genes had low protein-coding potential. However, a subset of novel genes had protein-coding potentials equivalent to known protein-coding genes. Shotgun mass spectrometry of round spermatid total protein identified unique peptides from four novel genes along with seven annotated non-coding RNAs. These analyses demonstrate the testis expresses a wide range of novel transcripts that give rise to novel proteins.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jaya Gamble
- Department of Animal Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
| | - Joel Chick
- Department of Cell Biology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Kelly Seltzer
- Department of Animal Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
| | | | - Steven Gygi
- Department of Cell Biology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Elizabeth M Snyder
- Department of Animal Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Endogenous retroviruses drive species-specific germline transcriptomes in mammals. Nat Struct Mol Biol 2020; 27:967-977. [PMID: 32895553 PMCID: PMC8246630 DOI: 10.1038/s41594-020-0487-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2019] [Accepted: 07/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Gene regulation in the germline ensures the production of high-quality gametes, long-term maintenance of the species, and speciation. Male germline transcriptomes undergo dynamic changes after the mitosis-to-meiosis transition and have been subject to evolutionary divergence among mammals. However, the mechanisms underlying germline regulatory divergence remain undetermined. Here, we show that endogenous retroviruses (ERVs) influence species-specific germline transcriptomes. After the mitosis-to-meiosis transition in male mice, specific ERVs function as active enhancers to drive germline genes, including a mouse-specific gene set, and bear binding motifs for critical regulators of spermatogenesis such as A-MYB. This raises the possibility that a genome-wide transposition of ERVs rewired germline gene expression in a species-specific manner. Of note, independently evolved ERVs are associated with the expression of human-specific germline genes, demonstrating the prevalence of ERV-driven mechanisms in mammals. Together, we propose that ERVs fine-tune species-specific transcriptomes in the mammalian germline.
Collapse
|
37
|
Maezawa S, Sakashita A, Yukawa M, Chen X, Takahashi K, Alavattam KG, Nakata I, Weirauch MT, Barski A, Namekawa SH. Super-enhancer switching drives a burst in gene expression at the mitosis-to-meiosis transition. Nat Struct Mol Biol 2020; 27:978-988. [PMID: 32895557 PMCID: PMC8690596 DOI: 10.1038/s41594-020-0488-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2019] [Accepted: 07/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Due to bursts in the expression of thousands of germline-specific genes, the testis has the most diverse and complex transcriptome of all organs. By analyzing the male germline of mice, we demonstrate that the genome-wide reorganization of super-enhancers (SEs) drives bursts in germline gene expression after the mitosis-to-meiosis transition. SE reorganization is regulated by two molecular events: the establishment of meiosis-specific SEs via A-MYB (MYBL1), a key transcription factor for germline genes, and the resolution of SEs in mitotically proliferating cells via SCML2, a germline-specific Polycomb protein required for spermatogenesis-specific gene expression. Prior to entry into meiosis, meiotic SEs are preprogrammed in mitotic spermatogonia to ensure the unidirectional differentiation of spermatogenesis. We identify key regulatory factors for both mitotic and meiotic enhancers, revealing a molecular logic for the concurrent activation of mitotic enhancers and suppression of meiotic enhancers in the somatic and/or mitotic proliferation phases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- So Maezawa
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Division of Developmental Biology, Perinatal Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA. .,Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA. .,Department of Animal Science and Biotechnology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Azabu University, Sagamihara, Kanagawa, Japan. .,Faculty of Science and Technology, Department of Applied Biological Science, Tokyo University of Science, Noda, Chiba, Japan.
| | - Akihiko Sakashita
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Division of Developmental Biology, Perinatal Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA.,Department of Molecular Biology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masashi Yukawa
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA.,Division of Allergy and Immunology, Division of Human Genetics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Xiaoting Chen
- Center for Autoimmune Genomics and Etiology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Kazuki Takahashi
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Division of Developmental Biology, Perinatal Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Kris G Alavattam
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Division of Developmental Biology, Perinatal Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Ippo Nakata
- Department of Animal Science and Biotechnology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Azabu University, Sagamihara, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Matthew T Weirauch
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA.,Center for Autoimmune Genomics and Etiology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA.,Divisions of Biomedical Informatics and Developmental Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Artem Barski
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA.,Division of Allergy and Immunology, Division of Human Genetics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Satoshi H Namekawa
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Division of Developmental Biology, Perinatal Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA. .,Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA. .,Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Single-Cell RNA Sequencing of the Cynomolgus Macaque Testis Reveals Conserved Transcriptional Profiles during Mammalian Spermatogenesis. Dev Cell 2020; 54:548-566.e7. [PMID: 32795394 DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel.2020.07.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2020] [Revised: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 07/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is highly orchestrated and involves the differentiation of diploid spermatogonia into haploid sperm. The process is driven by spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs). SSCs undergo mitotic self-renewal, whereas sub-populations undergo differentiation and later gain competence to initiate meiosis. Here, we describe a high-resolution single-cell RNA-seq atlas of cells derived from Cynomolgus macaque testis. We identify gene signatures that define spermatogonial populations and explore self-renewal versus differentiation dynamics. We detail transcriptional changes occurring over the entire process of spermatogenesis and highlight the concerted activity of DNA damage response (DDR) pathway genes, which have dual roles in maintaining genomic integrity and effecting meiotic sex chromosome inactivation (MSCI). We show remarkable similarities and differences in gene expression during spermatogenesis with two other eutherian mammals, i.e., mouse and humans. Sex chromosome expression in the male germline in all three species demonstrates conserved features of MSCI but divergent multicopy and ampliconic gene content.
Collapse
|
39
|
Meiotic Executioner Genes Protect the Y from Extinction. Trends Genet 2020; 36:728-738. [PMID: 32773168 DOI: 10.1016/j.tig.2020.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2020] [Revised: 06/17/2020] [Accepted: 06/19/2020] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
The Y has been described as a wimpy degraded relic of the X, with imminent demise should it lose sex-determining function. Why then has it persisted in almost all mammals? Here we present a novel mechanistic explanation for its evolutionary perseverance: the persistent Y hypothesis. The Y chromosome bears genes that act as their own judge, jury, and executioner in the tightly regulated meiotic surveillance pathways. These executioners are crucial for successful meiosis, yet need to be silenced during the meiotic sex chromosome inactivation window, otherwise germ cells die. Only rare transposition events to the X, where they remain subject to obligate meiotic silencing, are heritable, posing strong evolutionary constraint for the Y chromosome to persist.
Collapse
|
40
|
Hegde RS, Roychoudhury K, Pandey RN. The multi-functional eyes absent proteins. Crit Rev Biochem Mol Biol 2020; 55:372-385. [PMID: 32727223 PMCID: PMC7727457 DOI: 10.1080/10409238.2020.1796922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2020] [Revised: 06/18/2020] [Accepted: 07/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The Eyes Absent (EYA) proteins are the only known instance of a single polypeptide housing the following three separable biochemical activities: tyrosine phosphatase, threonine phosphatase, and transactivation. This uniquely positions the EYAs to participate in both transcriptional regulation and signal transduction pathways. But it also complicates the assignment of biological roles to individual biochemical activities through standard loss-of-function experiments. Nevertheless, there is an emerging literature linking developmental and pathological functions with the various EYA activities, and a growing list of disease states that might benefit from EYA-targeted therapeutics. There also remain multiple unresolved issues with significant implications for our understanding of how the EYAs might impact such ubiquitous signaling cascades as the MYC and Notch pathways. This review will describe the unique juxtaposition of biochemical activities in the EYAs, their interaction with signaling pathways and cellular processes, emerging evidence of roles in disease states, and the feasibility of therapeutic targeting of individual EYA activities. We will focus on the phosphatase activities of the vertebrate EYA proteins and will examine the current state of knowledge regarding: • substrates and signaling pathways affected by the EYA tyrosine phosphatase activity; • modes of regulation of the EYA tyrosine phosphatase activity; • signaling pathways that implicate the threonine phosphatase activity of the EYAs including a potential interaction with PP2A-B55α; • the interplay between the two phosphatase activities and the transactivation function of the EYAs; • disease states associated with the EYAs and the current state of development of EYA-targeted therapeutics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rashmi S. Hegde
- Division of Developmental Biology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Research Foundation, Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati School of Medicine, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati OH 45229
| | - Kaushik Roychoudhury
- Division of Developmental Biology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Research Foundation, Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati School of Medicine, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati OH 45229
| | - Ram Naresh Pandey
- Division of Developmental Biology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Research Foundation, Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati School of Medicine, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati OH 45229
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Umehara T, Tsujita N, Zhu Z, Ikedo M, Shimada M. A simple sperm-sexing method that activates TLR7/8 on X sperm for the efficient production of sexed mouse or cattle embryos. Nat Protoc 2020; 15:2645-2667. [DOI: 10.1038/s41596-020-0348-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2019] [Accepted: 04/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
|
42
|
Lee SN, Hong KM, Seong YS, Kwak SJ. Ectopic Overexpression of Coiled-Coil Domain Containing 110 Delays G2/M Entry in U2-OS Cells. Dev Reprod 2020; 24:101-111. [PMID: 32734127 PMCID: PMC7375983 DOI: 10.12717/dr.2020.24.2.101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2020] [Revised: 05/04/2020] [Accepted: 05/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Coiled-coil domain containing 110 (CCDC110, KM-HN-1) is a protein containing C-terminal coiled-coil domain (CCD) which was previously discovered as a member of the human cancer/testis antigen (CTA). In addition, CCDC110 has both nuclear localization signal sequence and the leucine zipper motif. Although the functional role of CCDC110 has yet to be fully identified, the mRNA expression levels of CCDC110 are known to be highly elevated in various cancer types including testis, implying its relevance to cancer pathogenesis. In this study, we first developed several monoclonal antibody (mAb) hybridoma clones targeting CCDC110 and further isolated clone by characterizing for its specificity using immunoblotting and immunoprecipitation approaches with basal parenchymal sperm cells in testis tissue. Next, using these mAbs, we showed that the Tet-inducible overexpression of CCDC110 protein delayed the entry of G2/M phase in U2-OS osteosarcoma cells. Based on these results, we propose that CCDC110 plays a crucial role in cell cycle progression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sue Nyoung Lee
- Dept. of Nanobiomedical Science & BK21 PLUS Research Center for Regenerative Medicine, Dankook University, Cheonan 31116, Korea
| | - Kyeong-Man Hong
- Dept. of Nanobiomedical Science & BK21 PLUS Research Center for Regenerative Medicine, Dankook University, Cheonan 31116, Korea.,Research Institute, National Cancer Center, Goyang 10408, Korea
| | - Yeon Sun Seong
- Dept. of Nanobiomedical Science & BK21 PLUS Research Center for Regenerative Medicine, Dankook University, Cheonan 31116, Korea.,3Dept. of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Dankook University, Cheonan 31116, Korea
| | - Sahng-June Kwak
- 3Dept. of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Dankook University, Cheonan 31116, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Bachtrog D. The Y Chromosome as a Battleground for Intragenomic Conflict. Trends Genet 2020; 36:510-522. [PMID: 32448494 DOI: 10.1016/j.tig.2020.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2020] [Revised: 04/17/2020] [Accepted: 04/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Y chromosomes are typically viewed as genetic wastelands with few intact genes. Recent genomic analyses in Drosophila, however, show that gene gain is prominent on young Y chromosomes. Meiosis- and RNAi-related genes often coamplify on recently formed X and Y chromosomes, are testis-expressed, and produce antisense transcripts and short RNAs. RNAi pathways are also involved in suppressing sex ratio drive in Drosophila. These observations paint a dynamic picture of sex chromosome differentiation, suggesting that rapidly evolving genomic battles over segregation are rampant on young sex chromosomes and utilize RNAi to defend the genome against selfish elements that manipulate fair meiosis. Recurrent sex chromosome drive can have profound ecological, evolutionary, and cellular impacts and account for unique features of sex chromosomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Doris Bachtrog
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Lu C, Zhang Y, Qin Y, Xu Q, Zhou R, Cui Y, Zhu Y, Zhang X, Zhang J, Wei X, Wang M, Hang B, Mao JH, Snijders AM, Liu M, Hu Z, Shen H, Zhou Z, Guo X, Wu X, Wang X, Xia Y. Human X chromosome exome sequencing identifies BCORL1 as contributor to spermatogenesis. J Med Genet 2020; 58:56-65. [PMID: 32376790 DOI: 10.1136/jmedgenet-2019-106598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2019] [Revised: 03/16/2020] [Accepted: 03/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infertility affects approximately 15% of couples worldwide with male infertility being responsible for approximately 50% of cases. Although accumulating evidence demonstrates the critical role of the X chromosome in spermatogenesis during the last few decades, the expression patterns and potential impact of the X chromosome, together with X linked genes, on male infertility are less well understood. METHODS We performed X chromosome exome sequencing followed by a two-stage independent population validation in 1333 non-obstructive azoospermia cases and 1141 healthy controls to identify variant classes with high likelihood of pathogenicity. To explore the functions of these candidate genes in spermatogenesis, we first knocked down these candidate genes individually in mouse spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) using short interfering RNA oligonucleotides and then generated candidate genes knockout mice by CRISPR-Cas9 system. RESULTS Four low-frequency variants were identified in four genes (BCORL1, MAP7D3, ARMCX4 and H2BFWT) associated with male infertility. Functional studies of the mouse SSCs revealed that knocking down Bcorl1 or Mtap7d3 could inhibit SSCs self-renewal and knocking down Armcx4 could repress SSCs differentiation in vitro. Using CRISPR-Cas9 system, Bcorl1 and Mtap7d3 knockout mice were generated. Excitingly, Bcorl1 knockout mice were infertile with impaired spermatogenesis. Moreover, Bcorl1 knockout mice exhibited impaired sperm motility and sperm cells displayed abnormal mitochondrial structure. CONCLUSION Our data indicate that the X-linked genes are associated with male infertility and involved in regulating SSCs, which provides a new insight into the role of X-linked genes in spermatogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chuncheng Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yufeng Qin
- Epigenetics & Stem Cell Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Qiaoqiao Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ran Zhou
- Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yiqiang Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yunfei Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jintao Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiang Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Min Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Bo Hang
- Division of Biological Systems and Engineering, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, California, USA
| | - Jian-Hua Mao
- Division of Biological Systems and Engineering, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, California, USA
| | - Antoine M Snijders
- Division of Biological Systems and Engineering, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, California, USA
| | - Mingxi Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zhibin Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics and Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Hongbing Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics and Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zuomin Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xuejiang Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xin Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xinru Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yankai Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Tatehana M, Kimura R, Mochizuki K, Inada H, Osumi N. Comprehensive histochemical profiles of histone modification in male germline cells during meiosis and spermiogenesis: Comparison of young and aged testes in mice. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0230930. [PMID: 32267870 PMCID: PMC7141650 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0230930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2019] [Accepted: 03/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Human epidemiological studies have shown that paternal aging as one of the risk factors for neurodevelopmental disorders, such as autism, in offspring. A recent study has suggested that factors other than de novo mutations due to aging can influence the biology of offspring. Here, we focused on epigenetic alterations in sperm that can influence developmental programs in offspring. In this study, we qualitatively and semiquantitatively evaluated histone modification patterns in male germline cells throughout spermatogenesis based on immunostaining of testes taken from young (3 months old) and aged (12 months old) mice. Although localization patterns were not obviously changed between young and aged testes, some histone modification showed differences in their intensity. Among histone modifications that repress gene expression, histone H3 lysine 9 trimethylation (H3K9me3) was decreased in the male germline cells of the aged testis, while H3K27me2/3 was increased. The intensity of H3K27 acetylation (ac), an active mark, was lower/higher depending on the stages in the aged testis. Interestingly, H3K27ac was detected on the putative sex chromosomes of round spermatids, while other chromosomes were occupied by a repressive mark, H3K27me3. Among other histone modifications that activate gene expression, H3K4me2 was drastically decreased in the male germline cells of the aged testis. In contrast, H3K79me3 was increased in M-phase spermatocytes, where it accumulates on the sex chromosomes. Therefore, aging induced alterations in the amount of histone modifications and in the differences of patterns for each modification. Moreover, histone modifications on the sex chromosomes and on other chromosomes seems to be differentially regulated by aging. These findings will help elucidate the epigenetic mechanisms underlying the influence of paternal aging on offspring development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Misako Tatehana
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, Center for Advanced Research and Translational Medicine (ART), Tohoku University School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Ryuichi Kimura
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, Center for Advanced Research and Translational Medicine (ART), Tohoku University School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Kentaro Mochizuki
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, Center for Advanced Research and Translational Medicine (ART), Tohoku University School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
- Department of Medical Genetics, Life Sciences Institute, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Hitoshi Inada
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, Center for Advanced Research and Translational Medicine (ART), Tohoku University School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Noriko Osumi
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, Center for Advanced Research and Translational Medicine (ART), Tohoku University School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Short Histone H2A Variants: Small in Stature but not in Function. Cells 2020; 9:cells9040867. [PMID: 32252453 PMCID: PMC7226823 DOI: 10.3390/cells9040867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2020] [Revised: 03/24/2020] [Accepted: 03/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The dynamic packaging of DNA into chromatin regulates all aspects of genome function by altering the accessibility of DNA and by providing docking pads to proteins that copy, repair and express the genome. Different epigenetic-based mechanisms have been described that alter the way DNA is organised into chromatin, but one fundamental mechanism alters the biochemical composition of a nucleosome by substituting one or more of the core histones with their variant forms. Of the core histones, the largest number of histone variants belong to the H2A class. The most divergent class is the designated “short H2A variants” (H2A.B, H2A.L, H2A.P and H2A.Q), so termed because they lack a H2A C-terminal tail. These histone variants appeared late in evolution in eutherian mammals and are lineage-specific, being expressed in the testis (and, in the case of H2A.B, also in the brain). To date, most information about the function of these peculiar histone variants has come from studies on the H2A.B and H2A.L family in mice. In this review, we describe their unique protein characteristics, their impact on chromatin structure, and their known functions plus other possible, even non-chromatin, roles in an attempt to understand why these peculiar histone variants evolved in the first place.
Collapse
|
47
|
Zhu Z, Yue Q, Xie J, Zhang S, He W, Bai S, Tian S, Zhang Y, Xiong M, Sun Z, Huang C, Li Y, Zheng K, Ye L. Rapamycin-mediated mTOR inhibition impairs silencing of sex chromosomes and the pachytene piRNA pathway in the mouse testis. Aging (Albany NY) 2020; 11:185-208. [PMID: 30636722 PMCID: PMC6339782 DOI: 10.18632/aging.101740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2018] [Accepted: 12/19/2018] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) controls cell growth and metabolism in response to environmental and metabolic signals. Rapamycin robustly extends the lifespan in mammals and has clinical relevance in organ transplantation and cancer therapy but side effects include male infertility. Here, we report that chronic rapamycin treatment causes spermatogenic arrest in adult male mice due to defects in sex body formation and meiotic sex chromosome inactivation (MSCI). Many sex chromosome-linked genes were up-regulated in isolated pachytene spermatocytes from rapamycin-treated mice. RNA-Seq analysis also identified mRNAs encoding the core piRNA pathway components were decreased. Furthermore, rapamycin treatment was associated with a drastic reduction in pachytene piRNA populations. The inhibitory effects of rapamycin on spermatogenesis were partially reversible, with restoration of testis mass and sperm motility within 2 months of treatment cessation. Collectively, we have defined an essential role of mTOR in MSCI and identified a novel function as a regulator of small RNA homeostasis in male germ cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhiping Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,The People's Hospital of Gaochun, Nanjing, China
| | - Qiuling Yue
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jie Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Shuya Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Wenxiu He
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Shun Bai
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Suwen Tian
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yingwen Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Mengneng Xiong
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zheng Sun
- Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Chaoyang Huang
- Heart and Vascular Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzho, Zhejiang 310003, China
| | - Yuebei Li
- The First Medical School of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ke Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Lan Ye
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Che L, Alavattam KG, Stambrook PJ, Namekawa SH, Du C. BRUCE preserves genomic stability in the male germline of mice. Cell Death Differ 2020; 27:2402-2416. [PMID: 32139899 DOI: 10.1038/s41418-020-0513-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2019] [Revised: 01/30/2020] [Accepted: 01/31/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BRUCE is a DNA damage response protein that promotes the activation of ATM and ATR for homologous recombination (HR) repair in somatic cells, making BRUCE a key protector of genomic stability. Preservation of genomic stability in the germline is essential for the maintenance of species. Here, we show that BRUCE is required for the preservation of genomic stability in the male germline of mice, specifically in spermatogonia and spermatocytes. Conditional knockout of Bruce in the male germline leads to profound defects in spermatogenesis, including impaired maintenance of spermatogonia and increased chromosomal anomalies during meiosis. Bruce-deficient pachytene spermatocytes frequently displayed persistent DNA breaks. Homologous synapsis was impaired, and nonhomologous associations and rearrangements were apparent in up to 10% of Bruce-deficient spermatocytes. Genomic instability was apparent in the form of chromosomal fragmentation, translocations, and synapsed quadrivalents and hexavalents. In addition, unsynapsed regions of rearranged autosomes were devoid of ATM and ATR signaling, suggesting an impairment in the ATM- and ATR-dependent DNA damage response of meiotic HR. Taken together, our study unveils crucial functions for BRUCE in the maintenance of spermatogonia and in the regulation of meiotic HR-functions that preserve the genomic stability of the male germline.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lixiao Che
- Department of Cell and Cancer Biology, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, 45267, USA
| | - Kris G Alavattam
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
| | - Peter J Stambrook
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, 45267, USA
| | - Satoshi H Namekawa
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
| | - Chunying Du
- Department of Cell and Cancer Biology, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, 45267, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Lu C, Yang M, Rossi RM, Wang A, Feitosa WB, Diaz FJ, Liu WS. Deletion of the mouse X-linked Prame gene causes germ cell reduction in spermatogenesis. Mol Reprod Dev 2020; 87:666-679. [PMID: 32017313 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2019] [Accepted: 01/22/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Preferentially expressed antigen in melanoma (PRAME) is cancer/testis antigen and a transcriptional repressor, inhibiting the signaling of retinoic acid through the retinoic acid receptor (RAR) for promoting cell proliferation and preventing cell apoptosis in cancer cells. The role of PRAME in testis and germline is unknown. We report here the generation and characterization of an X-linked Prame conditional knockout (cKO) mouse. Although fertile, the testis size (p < .01) and sperm count (p < .05) of the Prame cKO mice were significantly reduced by 12% at 4 months of age compared with the Prame floxed mice. Histological, immunofluorescence with germ cell-specific markers and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling analyses of testis cross-sections at postnatal day 7 (P7), P14, P21, P35, P120, and P365 indicated a significant increase in apoptotic germ cells at P7 and P14 and an increase in abnormal seminiferous tubules at P21 and P35. Germ cells were gradually lost resulting in two different phenotypes in the Prame cKO testes: Sertoli-cell-only for some of the affected tubules in young mice (at P35) and germ cell arrest at spermatogonia stage for other affected tubules in mature mice. Both phenotypes were a consequence of disruption in RAR signaling pathway by the depletion of Prame at a different time point during the first and subsequent rounds of spermatogenesis. The results suggest that Prame plays a minor, but important role in spermatogenesis and different paralogs in the Prame gene family may be functionally and partially redundant.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chen Lu
- Department of Animal Science, Center for Reproductive Biology and Health (CRBH), College of Agricultural Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania
| | - Mingyao Yang
- Department of Animal Science, Center for Reproductive Biology and Health (CRBH), College of Agricultural Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania
| | - Randall M Rossi
- Transgenic Mouse Facility, The Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania
| | - Aihua Wang
- Department of Animal Science, Center for Reproductive Biology and Health (CRBH), College of Agricultural Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania
| | - Weber B Feitosa
- Department of Animal Science, Center for Reproductive Biology and Health (CRBH), College of Agricultural Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania
| | - Francisco J Diaz
- Department of Animal Science, Center for Reproductive Biology and Health (CRBH), College of Agricultural Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania
| | - Wan-Sheng Liu
- Department of Animal Science, Center for Reproductive Biology and Health (CRBH), College of Agricultural Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
The Initiation of Meiotic Sex Chromosome Inactivation Sequesters DNA Damage Signaling from Autosomes in Mouse Spermatogenesis. Curr Biol 2020; 30:408-420.e5. [PMID: 31902729 PMCID: PMC7076562 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2019.11.064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2019] [Revised: 11/04/2019] [Accepted: 11/21/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Meiotic sex chromosome inactivation (MSCI) is an essential event in the mammalian male germline. MSCI is directed by a DNA damage response (DDR) pathway centered on the phosphorylation of histone variant H2AX at serine 139 (termed γH2AX). The failure to initiate MSCI is linked to complete meiotic arrest and elimination of germ cells; however, the mechanisms underlying this arrest and elimination remain unknown. To address this question, we established a new separation-of-function mouse model for H2ax that shows specific and complete defects in MSCI. The genetic change is a point mutation in which another H2AX amino acid residue important in the DDR, tyrosine 142 (Y142), is converted to alanine (H2ax-Y142A). In H2ax-Y142A meiosis, the establishment of DDR signals on the chromosome-wide domain of the sex chromosomes is impaired. The initiation of MSCI is required for stage progression, which enables crossover formation, suggesting that the establishment of MSCI permits the timely progression of male meiosis. Our results suggest that normal meiotic progression requires the removal of ATR-mediated DDR signaling from autosomes. We propose a novel biological function for MSCI: the initiation of MSCI sequesters DDR factors from autosomes to the sex chromosomes at the onset of the pachytene stage, and the subsequent formation of an isolated XY nuclear compartment-the XY body-sequesters DDR factors to permit meiotic progression from the mid-pachytene stage onward. VIDEO ABSTRACT.
Collapse
|