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Wang J, Yin Y, Yang L, Qin J, Wang Z, Qiu C, Gao Y, Lu G, Gao F, Chen ZJ, Zhang X, Liu H, Liu Z. TMC7 deficiency causes acrosome biogenesis defects and male infertility in mice. eLife 2024; 13:RP95888. [PMID: 39269275 PMCID: PMC11398861 DOI: 10.7554/elife.95888] [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: 09/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Transmembrane channel-like (TMC) proteins are a highly conserved ion channel family consisting of eight members (TMC1-TMC8) in mammals. TMC1/2 are components of the mechanotransduction channel in hair cells, and mutations of TMC1/2 cause deafness in humans and mice. However, the physiological roles of other TMC proteins remain largely unknown. Here, we show that Tmc7 is specifically expressed in the testis and that it is required for acrosome biogenesis during spermatogenesis. Tmc7-/- mice exhibited abnormal sperm head, disorganized mitochondrial sheaths, and reduced number of elongating spermatids, similar to human oligo-astheno-teratozoospermia. We further demonstrate that TMC7 is colocalized with GM130 at the cis-Golgi region in round spermatids. TMC7 deficiency leads to aberrant Golgi morphology and impaired fusion of Golgi-derived vesicles to the developing acrosome. Moreover, upon loss of TMC7 intracellular ion homeostasis is impaired and ROS levels are increased, which in turn causes Golgi and endoplasmic reticulum stress. Taken together, these results suggest that TMC7 is required to maintain pH and ion homeostasis, which is needed for acrosome biogenesis. Our findings unveil a novel role for TMC7 in acrosome biogenesis during spermiogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Wang
- Key Laboratory of Experimental Teratology, Ministry of Education, Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Advanced Medical Research Institute, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Yingying Yin
- Key Laboratory of Experimental Teratology, Ministry of Education, Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Lei Yang
- Key Laboratory of Experimental Teratology, Ministry of Education, Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Advanced Medical Research Institute, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Junchao Qin
- Key Laboratory of Experimental Teratology, Ministry of Education, Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Advanced Medical Research Institute, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Zixiang Wang
- Key Laboratory of Experimental Teratology, Ministry of Education, Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Advanced Medical Research Institute, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Chunhong Qiu
- Key Laboratory of Experimental Teratology, Ministry of Education, Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Yuan Gao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Gang Lu
- CUHK-SDU Joint Laboratory on Reproductive Genetics, School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Fei Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Zi-Jiang Chen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Xiyu Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Experimental Teratology, Ministry of Education, Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Hongbin Liu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Zhaojian Liu
- Key Laboratory of Experimental Teratology, Ministry of Education, Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Advanced Medical Research Institute, Shandong University, Jinan, China
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Zhang YT, Shen G, Zhuo LC, Yang X, Wang SY, Ruan TC, Jiang C, Wang X, Wang Y, Yang YH, Shen Y. Novel variations in TENT5D lead to teratozoospermia in infertile patients. Andrology 2024; 12:1336-1346. [PMID: 38228861 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Teratozoospermia is the main pathogenic factor of male infertility. However, the genetic etiology of teratozoospermia is largely unknown. This study aims to clarify the relationship between novel variations in TENT5D and teratozoospermia in infertile patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS Two infertile patients were enrolled. Routine semen analysis of patients and normal controls was conducted with the WHO guidelines. Whole-exome sequencing (WES) was conducted to identify pathogenic variants in the two patients. Morphology and ultrastructure analysis of spermatozoa in the two patients was determined by Papanicolaou staining, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The functional effect of the identified variants was analyzed by immunofluorescence staining and western blotting. The expression of TENT5D in different germ cells was detected by immunofluorescence staining. RESULTS Two new hemizygous variations, c.101C > T (p.P34L) and c.125A > T (p.D42V), in TENT5D were detected in two patients with male infertility. Morphology analysis showed abnormalities in spermatozoa morphology in the two patients, including multiple heads, headless, multiple tails, coiled, and/or bent flagella. Ultrastructure analysis showed that most of the spermatozoa exhibited missing or irregularly arranged '9+2' structures. Further functional experiments confirmed the abrogated TENT5D protein expression in patients. In addition, both p.P34L and p.D42V substitutions resulted in a conformational change of the TENT5D protein. We precisely analyzed the subcellular localization of TENT5D in germ cells in humans and mice. And we found that TENT5D was predominantly detected in the head and flagellum of elongating spermatids and epididymal spermatozoa. CONCLUSIONS Our results showed further evidence of a relationship between TENT5D mutation and human male infertility, providing new genetic insight for use in the diagnosis and treatment of male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying-Teng Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics/Gynecology, Key Laboratory of Obstetric, Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Gan Shen
- Department of Obstetrics/Gynecology, Key Laboratory of Obstetric, Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Liang-Chai Zhuo
- Department of Obstetrics/Gynecology, Key Laboratory of Obstetric, Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xue Yang
- Department of Obstetrics/Gynecology, Key Laboratory of Obstetric, Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Su-Yan Wang
- Department of Obstetrics/Gynecology, Key Laboratory of Obstetric, Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Tie-Chao Ruan
- Department of Obstetrics/Gynecology, Key Laboratory of Obstetric, Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Department of Pediatrics, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Chuan Jiang
- Department of Obstetrics/Gynecology, Key Laboratory of Obstetric, Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiang Wang
- Department of Obstetrics/Gynecology, Key Laboratory of Obstetric, Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yan Wang
- Reproduction Medical Center of West China Second University Hospital, Key Laboratory of Obstetric, Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yi-Hong Yang
- Reproduction Medical Center of West China Second University Hospital, Key Laboratory of Obstetric, Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Ying Shen
- Department of Obstetrics/Gynecology, Key Laboratory of Obstetric, Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Chronobiology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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Restrepo LJ, Baehrecke EH. Regulation and Functions of Autophagy During Animal Development. J Mol Biol 2024; 436:168473. [PMID: 38311234 PMCID: PMC11260256 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2024.168473] [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: 12/12/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
Autophagy is used to degrade cytoplasmic materials, and is critical to maintain cell and organismal health in diverse animals. Here we discuss the regulation, utilization and impact of autophagy on development, including roles in oogenesis, spermatogenesis and embryogenesis in animals. We also describe how autophagy influences postembryonic development in the context of neuronal and cardiac development, wound healing, and tissue regeneration. We describe recent studies of selective autophagy during development, including mitochondria-selective autophagy and endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-selective autophagy. Studies of developing model systems have also been used to discover novel regulators of autophagy, and we explain how studies of autophagy in these physiologically relevant systems are advancing our understanding of this important catabolic process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas J Restrepo
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Cancer Biology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605 USA
| | - Eric H Baehrecke
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Cancer Biology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605 USA.
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Miyata H, Shimada K, Kaneda Y, Ikawa M. Development of functional spermatozoa in mammalian spermiogenesis. Development 2024; 151:dev202838. [PMID: 39036999 DOI: 10.1242/dev.202838] [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: 07/23/2024]
Abstract
Infertility is a global health problem affecting one in six couples, with 50% of cases attributed to male infertility. Spermatozoa are male gametes, specialized cells that can be divided into two parts: the head and the flagellum. The head contains a vesicle called the acrosome that undergoes exocytosis and the flagellum is a motility apparatus that propels the spermatozoa forward and can be divided into two components, axonemes and accessory structures. For spermatozoa to fertilize oocytes, the acrosome and flagellum must be formed correctly. In this Review, we describe comprehensively how functional spermatozoa develop in mammals during spermiogenesis, including the formation of acrosomes, axonemes and accessory structures by focusing on analyses of mouse models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haruhiko Miyata
- Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Keisuke Shimada
- Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Yuki Kaneda
- Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Masahito Ikawa
- Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
- The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Minato-ku, Tokyo 108-8639, Japan
- Center for Infectious Disease Education and Research, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
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5
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Rotimi DE, Iyobhebhe M, Oluwayemi ET, Evbuomwan IO, Asaleye RM, Ojo OA, Adeyemi OS. Mitophagy and spermatogenesis: Role and mechanisms. Biochem Biophys Rep 2024; 38:101698. [PMID: 38577271 PMCID: PMC10990862 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrep.2024.101698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2024] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024] Open
Abstract
The mitophagy process, a type of macroautophagy, is the targeted removal of mitochondria. It is a type of autophagy exclusive to mitochondria, as the process removes defective mitochondria one by one. Mitophagy serves as an additional level of quality control by using autophagy to remove superfluous mitochondria or mitochondria that are irreparably damaged. During spermatogenesis, mitophagy can influence cell homeostasis and participates in a variety of membrane trafficking activities. Crucially, it has been demonstrated that defective mitophagy can impede spermatogenesis. Despite an increasing amount of evidence suggesting that mitophagy and mitochondrial dynamics preserve the fundamental level of cellular homeostasis, little is known about their role in developmentally controlled metabolic transitions and differentiation. It has been observed that male infertility is a result of mitophagy's impact on sperm motility. Furthermore, certain proteins related to autophagy have been shown to be present in mammalian spermatozoa. The mitochondria are the only organelle in sperm that can produce reactive oxygen species and finally provide energy for sperm movement. Furthermore, studies have shown that inhibited autophagy-infected spermatozoa had reduced motility and increased amounts of phosphorylated PINK1, TOM20, caspase 3/7, and AMPK. Therefore, in terms of reproductive physiology, mitophagy is the removal of mitochondria derived from sperm and the following preservation of mitochondria that are exclusively maternal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damilare Emmanuel Rotimi
- Department of Biochemistry, Landmark University, Omu-Aran 251101, Kwara State, Nigeria
- SDG 3, Good Health & Well-being, Landmark University, Nigeria
| | - Matthew Iyobhebhe
- Department of Biochemistry, Landmark University, Omu-Aran 251101, Kwara State, Nigeria
- SDG 3, Good Health & Well-being, Landmark University, Nigeria
| | - Elizabeth Temidayo Oluwayemi
- Department of Biochemistry, Landmark University, Omu-Aran 251101, Kwara State, Nigeria
- SDG 3, Good Health & Well-being, Landmark University, Nigeria
| | | | - Rotdelmwa Maimako Asaleye
- Department of Biochemistry, Landmark University, Omu-Aran 251101, Kwara State, Nigeria
- SDG 3, Good Health & Well-being, Landmark University, Nigeria
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Wang L, Zhuang J, Xue Z, Lu H, Zeng W, Zhang T. VD 3/VDR attenuates bisphenol A-induced impairment in mouse Leydig cells via regulation of autophagy. J Food Sci 2024; 89:3858-3870. [PMID: 38725370 DOI: 10.1111/1750-3841.17103] [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: 01/10/2024] [Revised: 04/07/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024]
Abstract
Bisphenol A (BPA) is an endocrine disruptor with reproductive toxicity. Further, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (VD3) plays an important role in male reproduction by binding vitamin D receptor (VDR) and mediating the pleiotropic biological actions that include spermatogenesis. However, whether VD3/VDR regulates the effect of BPA on Leydig cells (LCs) injury remains unknown. This study aimed to explore the effects of VD on BPA-induced cytotoxicity in mouse LCs. Hereby, LCs treated with BPA, VD3, or both were subjected to the assays of cell apoptosis, proliferation, autophagy, and levels of target proteins. This study unveiled that cell viability was dose-dependently reduced after exposure to BPA. BPA treatment significantly inhibited LC proliferation, induced apoptosis, and also downregulated VDR expression. By jointly analyzing transcriptome data and Comparative Toxicogenomics Database (CTD) data, autophagy signaling pathways related to testicular development and male reproduction were screened out. Therefore, the autophagy phenomenon of cells was further detected. The results showed that BPA treatment could activate cell autophagy, Vdr-/- inhibits cell autophagy, and active VD3 does not have a significant effect on the autophagy of normal LCs. After VD3 and BPA were used in combination, the autophagy of cells was further enhanced, and VD3 could alleviate BPA-induced damage of LCs. In conclusion, this study found that supplementing VD3 could eliminate the inhibition of BPA on VDR expression, further enhance LCs autophagy effect, and alleviate the inhibition of LCs proliferation and induction of apoptosis by BPA, playing a protective role in cells. The research results will provide valuable strategies to alleviate BPA-induced reproductive toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Wang
- School of Biological Science and Engineering, Shaanxi University of Technology, Hanzhong, China
- Engineering Research Center of quality improvement and safety control of Qinba special meat products, Universities of Shaanxi Province, Hanzhong, China
- Qinba State Key Laboratory of Biological Resources and Ecological Environment, Hanzhong, China
| | - Jianan Zhuang
- School of Biological Science and Engineering, Shaanxi University of Technology, Hanzhong, China
| | - Zhen Xue
- School of Biological Science and Engineering, Shaanxi University of Technology, Hanzhong, China
| | - Hongzhao Lu
- School of Biological Science and Engineering, Shaanxi University of Technology, Hanzhong, China
- Engineering Research Center of quality improvement and safety control of Qinba special meat products, Universities of Shaanxi Province, Hanzhong, China
- Shaanxi Union Research Center of University and Enterprise for Zhenba Bacon, Hanzhong, China
| | - Wenxian Zeng
- School of Biological Science and Engineering, Shaanxi University of Technology, Hanzhong, China
- Shaanxi Union Research Center of University and Enterprise for Zhenba Bacon, Hanzhong, China
| | - Tao Zhang
- School of Biological Science and Engineering, Shaanxi University of Technology, Hanzhong, China
- QinLing-Bashan Mountains Bioresources Comprehensive Development C. I. C., Shaanxi University of Technology, Hanzhong, China
- Shaanxi Union Research Center of University and Enterprise for Zhenba Bacon, Hanzhong, China
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7
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Li Y, Zhou Y, Ma T, Dai J, Li H, Pan Q, Luo W. Research progress on the role of autophagy in the development of varicocele. Reprod Biol 2024; 24:100894. [PMID: 38776742 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2024.100894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2023] [Revised: 05/04/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Varicocele (VC) is a common cause of infertility in men. Pathophysiological changes caused by VC, such as testicular hypoxia, high temperatures, oxidative stress, abnormal reproductive hormones, and Cd accumulation, can induce autophagy, thus affecting the reproductive function in patients with this condition. Autophagy regulators can be classified as activators or inhibitors. Autophagy activators upregulate autophagy, reduce the damage to the testis and epididymis, inhibit spermatogenic cell apoptosis, and protect fertility. In contrast, autophagy inhibitors block autophagy and aggravate the damage to the reproductive functions. Therefore, elucidating the role of autophagy in the occurrence, development, and regulation of VC may provide additional therapeutic options for men with infertility and VC. In this review, we briefly describe the progress made in autophagy research in the context of VC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunqing Li
- Reproductive Medicine Department, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong, China
| | - Yulan Zhou
- Reproductive Medicine Department, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong, China
| | - Tianzhong Ma
- Reproductive Medicine Department, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong, China
| | - Jiaze Dai
- Medical Laboratory Center, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong, China
| | - Hongbo Li
- Medical Laboratory Center, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong, China
| | - Qingjun Pan
- Clinical Research Center, Department of Clinical Laboratory, Key Laboratory of Prevention and Management of Chronic Kidney Disease of Zhanjiang City, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong, China.
| | - Wenying Luo
- Medical Laboratory Center, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong, China.
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8
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Fatmila DT, Pardede BP, Maulana T, Said S, Yudi Y, Purwantara B. Sperm HSP70: may not be an age-dependent gene but is associated with field fertility in Bali bulls ( Bos sondaicus). Anim Reprod 2024; 21:e20230048. [PMID: 38756622 PMCID: PMC11095850 DOI: 10.1590/1984-3143-ar2023-0048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to analyze the characteristics of the HSP70 gene and protein in spermatozoa of Bali bulls of different age groups and to examine its potential as a biomarker determining bull fertility. This study used frozen semen produced from six Bali bulls divided into two groups based on age (≤ 9 years and ≥ 12 years). Parameters of frozen semen quality analyzed included sperm motility and kinetics using computer-assisted semen analysis, sperm morphological defects using Diff-Quick staining, acrosome integrity using FITC-PNA staining, and DNA fragmentation using acridine orange staining. HSP70 gene expression characterization was analyzed using qRT-PCR, and HSP70 protein abundance was analyzed using enzyme immunoassays. Fertility field data were obtained by analyzing the percentage conception rate for each bull based on the artificial insemination service data contained in the Indonesian-integrated system of the National Animal Health Information System (iSIKHNAS). The results showed significant differences (P<0.05) in total and progressive motility, morphological defects of the neck and midpiece, and tail of sperm, and acrosome integrity between the age groups of Bali bulls. HSP70 gene expression and protein abundance showed no significant differences (P>0.05) in different age groups. HSP70 gene expression correlated with fertility rate (P<0.05). Age affected several semen quality parameters but did not affect HSP70 gene expression and protein abundance. The HSP70 gene molecule could be a biomarker that determines the fertility of Bali bulls.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dian Tria Fatmila
- Study Program of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Sumatera Utara, Medan, Indonesia
| | | | - Tulus Maulana
- Research Center for Applied Zoology, National Research and Innovation Agency, Bogor, Indonesia
| | - Syahruddin Said
- Research Center for Applied Zoology, National Research and Innovation Agency, Bogor, Indonesia
| | - Yudi Yudi
- Division of Reproduction and Obstetrics, School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, IPB University, Bogor, Indonesia
| | - Bambang Purwantara
- Division of Reproduction and Obstetrics, School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, IPB University, Bogor, Indonesia
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Yan Q, Wang Q, Nan J, Chen T, Wang J, Zhang Y, Yuan L. Heme oxygenase 1 (HO1) regulates autophagy and apoptosis via the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway of yak Sertoli cells. Theriogenology 2024; 220:96-107. [PMID: 38503100 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2024.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/03/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
Successful male reproduction depends on healthy testes. Autophagy has been confirmed to be active during many cellular events associated with the testes. It is not only crucial for testicular spermatogenesis but is also an essential regulatory mechanism for Sertoli cell (SCs) ectoplasmic specialization integrity and normal function of the blood-testis-barrier. Hypoxic stress induces oxidative damage, apoptosis, and autophagy, negatively affecting the male reproductive system. Cryptorchidism is a common condition associated with infertility. Recent studies have demonstrated that hypoxia-induced miRNAs and their transcription factors are highly expressed in the testicular tissue of infertile patients. Heme oxygenase 1 (HO1) is a heat-shock protein family member associated with cellular antioxidant defense and anti-apoptotic functions. The present study found that the HO1 mRNA and protein are up-regulated in yak cryptorchidism compared to normal testes. Next, we investigated the expression of HO1 in the SCs exposed to hypoxic stress and characterized the expression of key molecules involved in autophagy and apoptosis. The results showed that hypoxic stress induced the upregulation of autophagy of SCs. The down-regulation of HO1 using siRNA increases autophagy and decreases apoptosis, while the over-expression of HO1 attenuates autophagy and increases apoptosis. Furthermore, HO1 regulates autophagy and apoptosis via the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway. These results will be helpful for further understanding the regulatory mechanisms of HO1 in yak cryptorchidism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiu Yan
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agriculture University, Lanzhou, China; Gansu Key Laboratory of Animal Generational Physiology and Reproductive Regulation, Lanzhou, China
| | - Qi Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agriculture University, Lanzhou, China; Gansu Key Laboratory of Animal Generational Physiology and Reproductive Regulation, Lanzhou, China.
| | - Jinghong Nan
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agriculture University, Lanzhou, China; Gansu Key Laboratory of Animal Generational Physiology and Reproductive Regulation, Lanzhou, China
| | - Tingting Chen
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agriculture University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Juntao Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agriculture University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Yong Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agriculture University, Lanzhou, China; Gansu Key Laboratory of Animal Generational Physiology and Reproductive Regulation, Lanzhou, China; College of Life Science and Technology, Gansu Agriculture University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Ligang Yuan
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agriculture University, Lanzhou, China; Gansu Key Laboratory of Animal Generational Physiology and Reproductive Regulation, Lanzhou, China; College of Life Science and Technology, Gansu Agriculture University, Lanzhou, China
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10
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Ke L, Lin X, Luo Y, Tao S, Yan C, He Y, Wu Y, Liu N, Qin Y. Autophagy core protein BECN1 is vital for spermatogenesis and male fertility in mice†. Biol Reprod 2024; 110:599-614. [PMID: 37975917 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioad160] [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: 05/19/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Mammalian spermatogenesis is a highly complex multi-step biological process, and autophagy has been demonstrated to be involved in the process of spermatogenesis. Beclin-1/BECN1, a core autophagy factor, plays a critical role in many biological processes and diseases. However, its function in spermatogenesis remains largely unclear. In the present study, germ cell-specific Beclin 1 (Becn1) knockout mice were generated and were conducted to determine the role of Becn1 in spermatogenesis and fertility of mice. Results indicate that Becn1 deficiency leads to reduced sperm motility and quantity, partial failure of spermiation, actin network disruption, excessive residual cytoplasm, acrosome malformation, and aberrant mitochondrial accumulation of sperm, ultimately resulting in reduced fertility in male mice. Furthermore, inhibition of autophagy was observed in the testes of germ cell-specific Becn1 knockout mice, which may contribute to impaired spermiogenesis and reduced fertility. Collectively, our results reveal that Becn1 is essential for fertility and spermiogenesis in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Ke
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Feeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Xinyi Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Feeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Yuchuan Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Feeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Siming Tao
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Feeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Chang Yan
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Feeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Yifeilong He
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Feeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Yingjie Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Feeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Ning Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Feeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Food Nutrition and Human Health, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Yinghe Qin
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Feeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
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11
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Chen Z, Chen Z, Gao S, Shi J, Li X, Sun F. PFOS exposure destroys the integrity of the blood-testis barrier (BTB) through PI3K/AKT/mTOR-mediated autophagy. Reprod Biol 2024; 24:100846. [PMID: 38160586 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2023.100846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Perfluorooctanesulfonate or perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS), a type of perfluorinated compound, is mainly found in consumer products. Exposure to PFOS could cause male reproductive toxicity by causing injury to the blood-testis barrier (BTB). However, the specific mechanisms through which PFOS affects male reproduction remain unclear. The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) is a vital protein kinase that is believed to be a central regulator of autophagy. In this study, we established in vivo and in vitro models to explore the effects of PFOS on the BTB, autophagy, and the regulatory role of the mTOR signaling pathway. Adult mice were developmentally exposed to 0, 0.5, 5, and 10 mg/kg/day PFOS for five weeks. Thereafter, their testicular morphology, sperm counts, serum testosterone, expression of BTB-related proteins, and autophagy-related proteins were evaluated. Additionally, TM4 cells (a mouse Sertoli cell line) were used to delineate the molecular mechanisms that mediate the effects of PFOS on BTB. Our results demonstrated that exposure to PFOS induced BTB injury and autophagy, as evidenced by increased expression of autophagy-related proteins, accumulation of autophagosomes, observed through representative electron micrographs, and decreased activity of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway. Moreover, treatment with chloroquine, an autophagy inhibitor, alleviated the effects of PFOS on the integrity of TM4 cells in the BTB and the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway. Overall, this study highlights that exposure to PFOS destroys the integrity of the BTB through PI3K/AKT/mTOR-mediated autophagy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zifeng Chen
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China
| | - Zhengru Chen
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China
| | - Sheng Gao
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China
| | - Jie Shi
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China
| | - Xinyao Li
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China
| | - Fei Sun
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China.
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12
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He Y, Yin R. The reproductive and transgenerational toxicity of microplastics and nanoplastics: A threat to mammalian fertility in both sexes. J Appl Toxicol 2024; 44:66-85. [PMID: 37382358 DOI: 10.1002/jat.4510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Revised: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) are extensively distributed in the environment. However, a comprehensive review and in-depth discussion on the effects of MPs and NPs to reproductive capacity and transgenerational toxicity on mammals, especially on humans, is lacked. It is suggested that microplastics and nanoplastics could accumulate in mammalian reproductive organs and exert toxic effects on the reproductive system for both sexes. For males, the damage of microplastics consists of abnormal testicular and sperm structure, decreased sperm vitality, and endocrine disruption, which were caused by oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis of testicular cells, autophagy, abnormal cytoskeleton, and abnormal hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular axis. For females, the damage of microplastics includes abnormal ovary and uterus structure and endocrine disruption, which were caused by oxidative stress, inflammation, granulosa cell apoptosis, hypothalamic-pituitary-ovary axis abnormalities, and tissue fibrosis. For transgenerational toxicity, premature mortality existed in the rodent offspring after maternal exposure to microplastics. Among the surviving offspring, metabolic disorders, reproductive dysfunction, immune, neurodevelopmental, and cognitive disorders were detected, and these events directly correlated with transgenerational translocation of MPs and NPs. Studies on human-derived cells or organoids demonstrated that transgenerational toxicity studies for both sexes are yet in the phase of exploring suitable experimental models, and more detailed research on the threat of MPs and NPs to human fertility is still urgently needed. Further studies will help assess the MPs and NPs threat to public fertility and reproductive health risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuchong He
- Queen Mary School, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China
- The Key Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology and Pathology of Jiangxi Provincial, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Ruocheng Yin
- Queen Mary School, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China
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13
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Samare-Najaf M, Neisy A, Samareh A, Moghadam D, Jamali N, Zarei R, Zal F. The constructive and destructive impact of autophagy on both genders' reproducibility, a comprehensive review. Autophagy 2023; 19:3033-3061. [PMID: 37505071 PMCID: PMC10621263 DOI: 10.1080/15548627.2023.2238577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2022] [Revised: 07/08/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Reproduction is characterized by a series of massive renovations at molecular, cellular, and tissue levels. Recent studies have strongly tended to reveal the involvement of basic molecular pathways such as autophagy, a highly conserved eukaryotic cellular recycling, during reproductive processes. This review comprehensively describes the current knowledge, updated to September 2022, of autophagy contribution during reproductive processes in males including spermatogenesis, sperm motility and viability, and male sex hormones and females including germ cells and oocytes viability, ovulation, implantation, fertilization, and female sex hormones. Furthermore, the consequences of disruption in autophagic flux on the reproductive disorders including oligospermia, azoospermia, asthenozoospermia, teratozoospermia, globozoospermia, premature ovarian insufficiency, polycystic ovarian syndrome, endometriosis, and other disorders related to infertility are discussed as well.Abbreviations: AKT/protein kinase B: AKT serine/threonine kinase; AMPK: AMP-activated protein kinase; ATG: autophagy related; E2: estrogen; EDs: endocrine disruptors; ER: endoplasmic reticulum; FSH: follicle stimulating hormone; FOX: forkhead box; GCs: granulosa cells; HIF: hypoxia inducible factor; IVF: in vitro fertilization; IVM: in vitro maturation; LCs: Leydig cells; LDs: lipid droplets; LH: luteinizing hormone; LRWD1: leucine rich repeats and WD repeat domain containing 1; MAP1LC3: microtubule associated protein 1 light chain 3; MAPK: mitogen-activated protein kinase; MTOR: mechanistic target of rapamycin kinase; NFKB/NF-kB: nuclear factor kappa B; P4: progesterone; PCOS: polycystic ovarian syndrome; PDLIM1: PDZ and LIM domain 1; PI3K: phosphoinositide 3-kinase; PtdIns3P: phosphatidylinositol-3-phosphate; PtdIns3K: class III phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase; POI: premature ovarian insufficiency; ROS: reactive oxygen species; SCs: Sertoli cells; SQSTM1/p62: sequestosome 1; TSGA10: testis specific 10; TST: testosterone; VCP: vasolin containing protein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Samare-Najaf
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Student Research Committee, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Blood Transfusion Research Center, High Institute for Research and Education in Transfusion Medicine, Kerman Regional Blood Transfusion Center, Kerman, Iran
| | - Asma Neisy
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Ali Samareh
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Delaram Moghadam
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Navid Jamali
- Department of Laboratory Sciences, Sirjan School of Medical Sciences, Sirjan, Iran
| | - Reza Zarei
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Zal
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Infertility Research Centre, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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14
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Zhou L, Chen Y, Sun Y, Li N, Liu Y, Tan W, Zhang L. Cadmium induces apoptosis of mouse spermatocytes through JNK activation and disruption of autophagic flux. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2023; 265:115505. [PMID: 37742578 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.115505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2023] [Revised: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
Cadmium has been reported to accumulate primarily in spermatogonia and spermatocytes. Exposure to cadmium results in male reproductive toxicity via germ-cell apoptosis and impaired autophagy. Apoptosis and autophagy are two physiologically conserved events that maintain cellular homeostasis. However, the precise role of autophagy in cadmium-induced apoptosis of male germ cells has yet to be addressed. The present study aimed to investigate the impact of cadmium exposure on the cytotoxicity of GC-2 spd cells, a mouse spermatocyte cell line. The results showed that cadmium exposure caused apoptotic cell death and the accumulation of autophagosomes, along with the up-regulation of ATG proteins in GC-2 spd cells. It was demonstrated that the cadmium-induced accumulation of autophagosomes contributes to the apoptosis of GC-2 spd cells. This notion is supported by the findings that the autophagy inhibitor 3-MA reduced accumulation of autophagosomes and apoptotic cell death. Conversely, the apoptosis inhibitor Z-VAD-FMK inhibited apoptosis but had little effect on the accumulation of autophagosomes. Cadmium may impede the fusion of autophagosomes with lysosomes, leading to the autophagosome buildup. Additionally, we found that the JNK pathway mediates transcriptional induction of several autophagy-related (ATG) genes involved in autophagosome formation. The cadmium-activated JNK pathway regulates apoptosis by mediating the autophagosome formation. Treatment of cells with the JNK inhibitor SP600125 attenuated the accumulation of autophagosomes, the upregulated expression of autophagosome-associated proteins and apoptotic cell death induced by cadmium. Overall, these findings suggest that cadmium enhances apoptosis of GC-2 spd cells by activating the JNK pathway and inhibiting autophagic flux.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Zhou
- School of Public Health, Department of Environmental Health and Occupational Medicine, Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Occupational Hazard Identification and Control, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430065, China
| | - Yong Chen
- Emergency Department, Taikang Tongji (Wuhan) Hospital, Wuhan 430050, China
| | - Yu Sun
- School of Public Health, Department of Environmental Health and Occupational Medicine, Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Occupational Hazard Identification and Control, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430065, China
| | - Nayu Li
- School of Public Health, Department of Environmental Health and Occupational Medicine, Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Occupational Hazard Identification and Control, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430065, China
| | - Yunhao Liu
- School of Public Health, Department of Environmental Health and Occupational Medicine, Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Occupational Hazard Identification and Control, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430065, China
| | - Wei Tan
- Public Health Department, Geriatric Hospital Affiliated to Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430065, China.
| | - Ling Zhang
- School of Public Health, Department of Environmental Health and Occupational Medicine, Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Occupational Hazard Identification and Control, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430065, China.
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15
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Wei YL, Fan XJ, Lin XC, Lin AZ, She ZY, Wang XR. Kinesin-14 KIFC1 promotes acrosome formation and chromatin maturation during mouse spermiogenesis. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA. MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2023; 1870:119555. [PMID: 37524262 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2023.119555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2023] [Revised: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2023]
Abstract
KIFC1, a member of kinesin-14 subfamily motors, is essential for meiotic cell division and acrosome formation during spermatogenesis. However, the functions of KIFC1 in the formation and maintenance of the acrosome in male germ cells remain to be elucidated. In this study, we report the structural deformities of acrosomes in the in vivo KIFC1 inhibition mouse models. The proacrosomal vesicles diffuse into the cytoplasm and form atypical acrosomal granules. This phenotype is consistent with globozoospermia patients and probably results from the failure of the Golgi-derived vesicle trafficking and actin filament organization. Moreover, the multinucleated and undifferentiated spermatogenic cells in the epidydimal lumen after KIFC1 inhibition reveal the specific roles of KIFC1 in regulating post-meiotic maturation. Overall, our results uncover KIFC1 as an essential regulator in the trafficking, fusion and maturation of acrosomal vesicles during spermiogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Lan Wei
- NHC Key Laboratory of Technical Evaluation of Fertility Regulation for Non-human Primate (Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital), Fuzhou, Fujian 350013, China; College of Clinical Medicine for Obstetrics & Gynecology and Pediatrics, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China; Medical Research Center, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian 350001, China
| | - Xiao-Jing Fan
- NHC Key Laboratory of Technical Evaluation of Fertility Regulation for Non-human Primate (Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital), Fuzhou, Fujian 350013, China; College of Clinical Medicine for Obstetrics & Gynecology and Pediatrics, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China; Medical Research Center, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian 350001, China
| | - Xin-Chen Lin
- NHC Key Laboratory of Technical Evaluation of Fertility Regulation for Non-human Primate (Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital), Fuzhou, Fujian 350013, China; College of Clinical Medicine for Obstetrics & Gynecology and Pediatrics, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China; Medical Research Center, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian 350001, China
| | - Ai-Zhu Lin
- NHC Key Laboratory of Technical Evaluation of Fertility Regulation for Non-human Primate (Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital), Fuzhou, Fujian 350013, China; College of Clinical Medicine for Obstetrics & Gynecology and Pediatrics, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China; Medical Research Center, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian 350001, China
| | - Zhen-Yu She
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, The School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China.
| | - Xin-Rui Wang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Technical Evaluation of Fertility Regulation for Non-human Primate (Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital), Fuzhou, Fujian 350013, China; College of Clinical Medicine for Obstetrics & Gynecology and Pediatrics, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China; Medical Research Center, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian 350001, China.
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16
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Raee P, Tan SC, Najafi S, Zandsalimi F, Low TY, Aghamiri S, Fazeli E, Aghapour M, Mofarahe ZS, Heidari MH, Fathabadi FF, Abdi F, Asouri M, Ahmadi AA, Ghanbarian H. Autophagy, a critical element in the aging male reproductive disorders and prostate cancer: a therapeutic point of view. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2023; 21:88. [PMID: 37749573 PMCID: PMC10521554 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-023-01134-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Autophagy is a highly conserved, lysosome-dependent biological mechanism involved in the degradation and recycling of cellular components. There is growing evidence that autophagy is related to male reproductive biology, particularly spermatogenic and endocrinologic processes closely associated with male sexual and reproductive health. In recent decades, problems such as decreasing sperm count, erectile dysfunction, and infertility have worsened. In addition, reproductive health is closely related to overall health and comorbidity in aging men. In this review, we will outline the role of autophagy as a new player in aging male reproductive dysfunction and prostate cancer. We first provide an overview of the mechanisms of autophagy and its role in regulating male reproductive cells. We then focus on the link between autophagy and aging-related diseases. This is followed by a discussion of therapeutic strategies targeting autophagy before we end with limitations of current studies and suggestions for future developments in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pourya Raee
- Student Research Committee, Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shing Cheng Tan
- UKM Medical Molecular Biology Institute, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Sajad Najafi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, 19395-4719, Iran
| | - Farshid Zandsalimi
- Department of Molecular Medicine, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Teck Yew Low
- UKM Medical Molecular Biology Institute, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Shahin Aghamiri
- Student Research Committee, Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Elham Fazeli
- Mehr Fertility Research Center, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
| | - Mahyar Aghapour
- Department of Dermatology and Allergic Diseases, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Zahra Shams Mofarahe
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hossein Heidari
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Fadaei Fathabadi
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farid Abdi
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Science and Research branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohsen Asouri
- North Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Amol, Iran
| | | | - Hossein Ghanbarian
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, 19395-4719, Iran.
- Urogenital Stem Cell Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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17
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Luo ZY, Jiang TX, Zhang T, Xu P, Qiu XB. Ubiquitin Ligase Nrdp1 Controls Autophagy-Associated Acrosome Biogenesis and Mitochondrial Arrangement during Spermiogenesis. Cells 2023; 12:2211. [PMID: 37759433 PMCID: PMC10527437 DOI: 10.3390/cells12182211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Revised: 07/23/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Autophagy is critical to acrosome biogenesis and mitochondrial quality control, but the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. The ubiquitin ligase Nrdp1/RNF41 promotes ubiquitination of the mitophagy-associated Parkin and interacts with the pro-autophagic protein SIP/CacyBP. Here, we report that global deletion of Nrdp1 leads to formation of the round-headed sperm and male infertility by disrupting autophagy. Quantitative proteome analyses demonstrated that the expression of many proteins associated with mitochondria, lysosomes, and acrosomes was dysregulated in either spermatids or sperm of the Nrdp1-deficient mice. Deletion of Nrdp1 increased the levels of Parkin but decreased the levels of SIP, the mitochondrial fission protein Drp1 and the mitochondrial protein Tim23 in sperm, accompanied by the inhibition of autophagy, the impairment of acrosome biogenesis and the disruption of mitochondrial arrangement in sperm. Thus, our results uncover an essential role of Nrdp1 in spermiogenesis and male fertility by promoting autophagy, providing important clues to cope with the related male reproductive diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zi-Yu Luo
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation & Regulation Biology, College of Life Sciences, Beijing Normal University, 19 Xinjiekouwai Avenue, Beijing 100875, China; (Z.-Y.L.); (T.-X.J.)
| | - Tian-Xia Jiang
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation & Regulation Biology, College of Life Sciences, Beijing Normal University, 19 Xinjiekouwai Avenue, Beijing 100875, China; (Z.-Y.L.); (T.-X.J.)
| | - Tao Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Proteomics, Beijing Proteome Research Center, Institute of Lifeomics, 38 Science Park Road, Beijing 102206, China;
| | - Ping Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Proteomics, Beijing Proteome Research Center, Institute of Lifeomics, 38 Science Park Road, Beijing 102206, China;
| | - Xiao-Bo Qiu
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation & Regulation Biology, College of Life Sciences, Beijing Normal University, 19 Xinjiekouwai Avenue, Beijing 100875, China; (Z.-Y.L.); (T.-X.J.)
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18
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Zhang Y, Tang J, Wang X, Sun Y, Yang T, Shen X, Yang X, Shi H, Sun X, Xin A. Loss of ACTL7A causes small head sperm by defective acrosome-acroplaxome-manchette complex. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2023; 21:82. [PMID: 37667331 PMCID: PMC10476415 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-023-01130-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Actin-like 7 A (ACTL7A) is essential for acrosome formation, fertilization and early embryo development. ACTL7A variants cause acrosome detachment responsible for male infertility and early embryonic arrest. In this study, we aim to explore the additional functions of ACTL7A beyond the process of acrosome biogenesis and investigate the possible underlying mechanisms. METHODS Nuclear morphology analysis was used to observe the sperm head shape of ACTL7A-mutated patients. Actl7a knock-out (KO) mouse model was generated. Immunofluorescence and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) were performed to analyze the structure of spermatids during spermiogenesis. Tandem mass tags labeling quantitative proteomics strategy was employed to explore the underlying molecular mechanisms. The expression levels of key proteins in the pathway were analyzed by western blotting. Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI)-artificial oocyte activation (AOA) technology was utilized to overcome fertilization failure in male mice with a complete knockout of Actl7a. RESULTS The new phenotype of small head sperm associated with loss of ACTL7A in patients was discovered, and further confirmed in Actl7a-KO mice. Immunofluorescence and TEM analyses revealed that the deletion of ACTL7A damaged the formation of acrosome-acroplaxome-manchette complex, leading to abnormalities in the shaping of sperm heads. Moreover, a proteomic analysis of testes from WT and Actl7a-KO mice revealed that differentially expressed genes were notably enriched in PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway which is strongly associated with autophagy. Inhibition of autophagy via PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway activation leading to PDLIM1 accumulation might elucidate the hindered development of manchette in Actl7a-KO mice. Remarkably, AOA successfully overcame fertilization failure and allowed for the successful production of healthy offspring from the Actl7a complete knockout male mice. CONCLUSIONS Loss of ACTL7A causes small head sperm as a result of defective acrosome-acroplaxome-manchette complex via autophagy inhibition. ICSI-AOA is an effective technique to rescue male infertility resulting from ACTL7A deletion. These findings provide essential evidence for the diagnosis and treatment of patients suffering from infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yini Zhang
- Shanghai Ji Ai Genetics and IVF Institute, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Jianan Tang
- Shanghai-MOST Key Laboratory of Health and Disease Genomics, NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation,Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies (SIBPT), School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Xuemei Wang
- Shanghai-MOST Key Laboratory of Health and Disease Genomics, NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation,Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies (SIBPT), School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Yisi Sun
- Shanghai-MOST Key Laboratory of Health and Disease Genomics, NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation,Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies (SIBPT), School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Tianying Yang
- Shanghai Ji Ai Genetics and IVF Institute, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Xiaorong Shen
- Shanghai-MOST Key Laboratory of Health and Disease Genomics, NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation,Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies (SIBPT), School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Xinyue Yang
- Shanghai Ji Ai Genetics and IVF Institute, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Huijuan Shi
- Shanghai-MOST Key Laboratory of Health and Disease Genomics, NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation,Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies (SIBPT), School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Xiaoxi Sun
- Shanghai Ji Ai Genetics and IVF Institute, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200011, China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Shanghai, 200011, China.
| | - Aijie Xin
- Shanghai-MOST Key Laboratory of Health and Disease Genomics, NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation,Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies (SIBPT), School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
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19
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Liu
- Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510623, China
| | - Wei Li
- Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510623, China.
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20
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He X, Mu W, Wang Z, Xu K, Yin Y, Lu G, Chan WY, Liu H, Lv Y, Liu S. Deficiency of the Tmem232 Gene Causes Male Infertility with Morphological Abnormalities of the Sperm Flagellum in Mice. Cells 2023; 12:1614. [PMID: 37371084 DOI: 10.3390/cells12121614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Revised: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The axoneme and accessory structures of flagella are critical for sperm motility and male fertilization. Sperm production needs precise and highly ordered gene expression to initiate and sustain the many cellular processes that result in mature spermatozoa. Here, we identified a testis enriched gene transmembrane protein 232 (Tmem232), which is essential for the structural integrity of the spermatozoa flagella axoneme. Tmem232 knockout mice were generated for in vivo analyses of its functions in spermatogenesis. Phenotypic analysis showed that deletion of Tmem232 in mice causes male-specific infertility. Transmission electron microscopy together with scanning electron microscopy were applied to analyze the spermatozoa flagella and it was observed that the lack of TMEM232 caused failure of the cytoplasm removal and the absence of the 7th outer microtubule doublet with its corresponding outer dense fiber (ODF). Co-IP assays further identified that TMEM232 interacts with ODF family protein ODF1, which is essential to maintain sperm motility. In conclusion, our findings indicate that TMEM232 is a critical protein for male fertility and sperm motility by regulating sperm cytoplasm removal and maintaining axoneme integrity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiuqing He
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China
| | - Wenyu Mu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Medicine Research Center for Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan 250012, China
| | - Ziqi Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Medicine Research Center for Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan 250012, China
| | - Ke Xu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Medicine Research Center for Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan 250012, China
| | - Yingying Yin
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Medicine Research Center for Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan 250012, China
| | - Gang Lu
- CUHK-SDU Joint Laboratory on Reproductive Genetics, School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Wai-Yee Chan
- CUHK-SDU Joint Laboratory on Reproductive Genetics, School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Hongbin Liu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Medicine Research Center for Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan 250012, China
- CUHK-SDU Joint Laboratory on Reproductive Genetics, School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yue Lv
- CUHK-SDU Joint Laboratory on Reproductive Genetics, School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shandong First Medical University, Jinan 250117, China
| | - Shangming Liu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China
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21
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Kirat D, Alahwany AM, Arisha AH, Abdelkhalek A, Miyasho T. Role of Macroautophagy in Mammalian Male Reproductive Physiology. Cells 2023; 12:cells12091322. [PMID: 37174722 PMCID: PMC10177121 DOI: 10.3390/cells12091322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Revised: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Physiologically, autophagy is an evolutionarily conserved and self-degradative process in cells. Autophagy carries out normal physiological roles throughout mammalian life. Accumulating evidence shows autophagy as a mechanism for cellular growth, development, differentiation, survival, and homeostasis. In male reproductive systems, normal spermatogenesis and steroidogenesis need a balance between degradation and energy supply to preserve cellular metabolic homeostasis. The main process of autophagy includes the formation and maturation of the phagophore, autophagosome, and autolysosome. Autophagy is controlled by a group of autophagy-related genes that form the core machinery of autophagy. Three types of autophagy mechanisms have been discovered in mammalian cells: macroautophagy, microautophagy, and chaperone-mediated autophagy. Autophagy is classified as non-selective or selective. Non-selective macroautophagy randomly engulfs the cytoplasmic components in autophagosomes that are degraded by lysosomal enzymes. While selective macroautophagy precisely identifies and degrades a specific element, current findings have shown the novel functional roles of autophagy in male reproduction. It has been recognized that dysfunction in the autophagy process can be associated with male infertility. Overall, this review provides an overview of the cellular and molecular basics of autophagy and summarizes the latest findings on the key role of autophagy in mammalian male reproductive physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Doaa Kirat
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44519, Egypt
| | - Ahmed Mohamed Alahwany
- Department of Animal Physiology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Badr University in Cairo (BUC), Cairo, Badr City 11829, Egypt
| | - Ahmed Hamed Arisha
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44519, Egypt
- Department of Animal Physiology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Badr University in Cairo (BUC), Cairo, Badr City 11829, Egypt
| | - Adel Abdelkhalek
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Badr University in Cairo (BUC), Cairo, Badr City 11829, Egypt
| | - Taku Miyasho
- Laboratory of Animal Biological Responses, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Rakuno Gakuen University, Ebetsu, Hokkaido 069-8501, Japan
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22
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Sharma P, Kaushal N, Saleth LR, Ghavami S, Dhingra S, Kaur P. Oxidative stress-induced apoptosis and autophagy: Balancing the contrary forces in spermatogenesis. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2023; 1869:166742. [PMID: 37146914 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2023.166742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Revised: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is a complex process in the testis and is a cornerstone of male infertility. The abundance of unsaturated fatty acid and high cell division rate make male germs cells prone to DNA deterioration. ROS-mediated oxidative stress triggers DNA damage, autophagy, and apoptosis in male germ cells, which are critical causative factors that lead to male infertility. The complex connection and molecular crosstalk between apoptosis and autophagy is seen at multifaceted levels that interconnect the signaling pathways of these two processes. Multilevel interaction between apoptosis and autophagy is a seamless state of survival and death in response to various stressors. Interaction between multiple genes and proteins such as the mTor signaling pathway, Atg12 proteins, and the death adapter proteins, such as Beclin 1, p53, and Bcl-2 family proteins, validates such a link between these two phenomena. Testicular cells being epigenetically different from somatic cells, undergo numerous significant epigenetic transitions, and ROS modulates the epigenetic framework of mature sperm. Epigenetic deregulation of apoptosis and autophagy under oxidative stress conditions can cause sperm cell damage. The current review recapitulates the current role of prevailing stressors that generate oxidative stress leading to the induction of apoptosis and autophagy in the male reproductive system. Considering the pathophysiological consequences of ROS-mediated apoptosis and autophagy, a combinatorial approach, including apoptosis inhibition and autophagy activation, a therapeutic strategy to treat male idiopathic infertility. Understanding the crosslink between apoptosis and autophagy under stress conditions in male germ cells may play an essential role in developing therapeutic strategies to treat infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parul Sharma
- Department of Biotechnology, Thapar Institute of Engineering & Technology, Patiala, Punjab 147004, India
| | - Naveen Kaushal
- Department of Biophysics, Panjab University, Chandigarh 160014, India
| | - Leena Regi Saleth
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, St. Boniface Hospital Albrechtsen Research Centre, Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Max Rady College of Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba R2H 2A6, Canada
| | - Saeid Ghavami
- Department of Human Anatomy and Cell Science, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada; Research Institute of Hematology and Oncology, Cancer Care Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0V9, Canada; Faculty of Medicine in Zabrze, University of Technology in Katowice, Academia of Silesia, 41-800 Zabrze, Poland
| | - Sanjiv Dhingra
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, St. Boniface Hospital Albrechtsen Research Centre, Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Max Rady College of Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba R2H 2A6, Canada
| | - Parminder Kaur
- Department of Biotechnology, University Institute of Engineering & Technology, Panjab University, Chandigarh 160024, India.
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23
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Ding Z, Xiong L, Wang X, Guo S, Cao M, Kang Y, La Y, Bao P, Pei J, Guo X. Comparative Analysis of Epididymis Cauda of Yak before and after Sexual Maturity. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13081355. [PMID: 37106918 PMCID: PMC10135020 DOI: 10.3390/ani13081355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Revised: 04/08/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Epididymis development is the basis of male reproduction and is a crucial site where sperm maturation occurs. In order to further understand the epididymal development of yak and how to regulate sperm maturation, we conducted a multi-omics analysis. We detected 2274 differential genes, 222 differential proteins and 117 co-expression genes in the cauda epididymis of yak before and after sexual maturity by RNA-seq and proteomics techniques, which included TGFBI, COL1A1, COL1A2, COL3A1, COL12A1, SULT2B1, KRT19, and NPC2. These high abundance genes are mainly related to cell growth, differentiation, adhesion and sperm maturation, and are mainly enriched via extracellular matrix receptor interaction, protein differentiation and absorption, and lysosome and estrogen signaling pathways. The abnormal expression of these genes may lead to the retardation of epididymal cauda development and abnormal sperm function in yak. In conclusion, through single and combined analysis, we provided a theoretical basis for the development of the yak epididymal cauda, sperm maturation, and screening of key genes involved in the regulation of male yak reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziqiang Ding
- Key Laboratory of Yak Breeding Engineering of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou 730050, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding on Tibetan Plateau, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Lanzhou 730050, China
| | - Lin Xiong
- Key Laboratory of Yak Breeding Engineering of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou 730050, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding on Tibetan Plateau, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Lanzhou 730050, China
| | - Xingdong Wang
- Key Laboratory of Yak Breeding Engineering of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou 730050, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding on Tibetan Plateau, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Lanzhou 730050, China
| | - Shaoke Guo
- Key Laboratory of Yak Breeding Engineering of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou 730050, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding on Tibetan Plateau, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Lanzhou 730050, China
| | - Mengli Cao
- Key Laboratory of Yak Breeding Engineering of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou 730050, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding on Tibetan Plateau, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Lanzhou 730050, China
| | - Yandong Kang
- Key Laboratory of Yak Breeding Engineering of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou 730050, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding on Tibetan Plateau, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Lanzhou 730050, China
| | - Yongfu La
- Key Laboratory of Yak Breeding Engineering of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou 730050, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding on Tibetan Plateau, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Lanzhou 730050, China
| | - Pengjia Bao
- Key Laboratory of Yak Breeding Engineering of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou 730050, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding on Tibetan Plateau, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Lanzhou 730050, China
| | - Jie Pei
- Key Laboratory of Yak Breeding Engineering of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou 730050, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding on Tibetan Plateau, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Lanzhou 730050, China
| | - Xian Guo
- Key Laboratory of Yak Breeding Engineering of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou 730050, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding on Tibetan Plateau, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Lanzhou 730050, China
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24
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Abstract
In recent years, the incidence of teratospermia has been increasing, and it has become a very important factor leading to male infertility. The research on the molecular mechanism of teratospermia is also progressing rapidly. This article briefly summarizes the clinical incidence of teratozoospermia, and makes a retrospective summary of related studies reported in recent years. Specifically discussing the relationship between gene status and spermatozoa, the review aims to provide the basis for the genetic diagnosis and gene therapy of teratozoospermia.
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25
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Moreno RD. Human globozoospermia-related genes and their role in acrosome biogenesis. WIREs Mech Dis 2023; 15:e1589. [PMID: 36493758 DOI: 10.1002/wsbm.1589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2022] [Revised: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The mammalian acrosome is a secretory vesicle attached to the sperm nucleus whose fusion with the overlying plasma membrane is required to achieve fertilization. Acrosome biogenesis starts during meiosis, but it lasts through the entire process of haploid cell differentiation (spermiogenesis). Acrosome biogenesis is a stepwise process that involves membrane traffic from the Golgi apparatus, but it also seems that the lysosome/endosome system participates in this process. Defective sperm head morphology is accompanied by defective acrosome shape and function, and patients with these characteristics are infertile or subfertile. The most extreme case of acrosome biogenesis failure is globozoospermia syndrome, which is primarily characterized by the presence of round-headed spermatozoa without acrosomes with cytoskeleton defects around the nucleus and infertility. Several genes participating in acrosome biogenesis have been uncovered using genetic deletions in mice, but only a few of them have been found to be deleted or modified in patients with globozoospermia. Understanding acrosome biogenesis is crucial to uncovering the molecular basis of male infertility and developing new diagnostic tools and assisted reproductive technologies that may help infertile patients through more effective treatment techniques. This article is categorized under: Reproductive System Diseases > Environmental Factors Infectious Diseases > Stem Cells and Development Reproductive System Diseases > Molecular and Cellular Physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ricardo D Moreno
- Departmento de Fisiología, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
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26
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Zuo Q, Gong W, Yao Z, Xia Q, Zhang Y, Li B. Identification of key events and regulatory networks in the formation process of primordial germ cell based on proteomics. J Cell Physiol 2023; 238:610-630. [PMID: 36745473 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.30952] [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: 08/24/2022] [Revised: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Currently, studies have analyzed the formation mechanism of primordial germ cell (PGC) at the transcriptional level, but few at the protein level, which made the mechanism study of PGC formation not systematic. Here, we screened differential expression proteins (DEPs) regulated PGC formation by label-free proteomics with a novel sampling strategy of embryonic stem cells and PGC. Analysis of DEPs showed that multiple key events were involved, such as the transition from glycolysis to oxidative phosphorylation, activation of autophagy, low DNA methylation ensured the normal formation of PGC, beyond that, protein ubiquitination also played an important role in PGC formation. Importantly, the progression of such events was attributed to the inconsistency between transcription and translation. Interestingly, MAPK, PPAR, Wnt, and JAK signaling pathways not only interact with each other but also interact with different events to participate in the formation of PGC, which formed the PGC regulatory network. According to the regulatory network, the efficiency of PGC formation in induction system can be significantly improved. In conclusion, our results indicate that chicken PGC formation is a complex process involving multiple events and signals, which provide technical support for the specific application in PGC research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qisheng Zuo
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding Reproduction and Molecular Design for Jiangsu Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, P.R. China
| | - Wei Gong
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding Reproduction and Molecular Design for Jiangsu Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, P.R. China
| | - Zeling Yao
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding Reproduction and Molecular Design for Jiangsu Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, P.R. China
| | - Qian Xia
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding Reproduction and Molecular Design for Jiangsu Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, P.R. China
| | - Yani Zhang
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding Reproduction and Molecular Design for Jiangsu Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, P.R. China
| | - Bichun Li
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding Reproduction and Molecular Design for Jiangsu Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, P.R. China
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27
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Zhu H, Wen Z, Zhang A, Liu D, Wang H, Cheng Y, Yang X, Xiao Y, Li J, Sun D, Wu B, Gao J. RhoGDIα regulates spermatogenesis through Rac1/cofilin/F-actin signaling. Commun Biol 2023; 6:214. [PMID: 36823181 PMCID: PMC9950379 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-023-04579-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is an extremely complex process, and any obstruction can cause male infertility. RhoGDIα has been identified as a risk of male sterility. In this study, we generate RhoGDIα knockout mice, and find that the males have severely low fertility. The testes from RhoGDIα-/- mice are smaller than that in WT mice. The numbers of spermatogonia and spermatocytes are decreased in RhoGDIα-/- testis. Spermatogenesis is compromised, and spermatocyte meiosis is arrested at zygotene stage in RhoGDIα-/- mice. Acrosome dysplasia is also observed in sperms of the mutant mice. At the molecular level, RhoGDIα deficiency activate the LIMK/cofilin signaling pathway, inhibiting F-actin depolymerization, impairing testis and inducing low fertility in mouse. In addition, the treatment of RhoGDIα-/- mice with Rac1 inhibitor NSC23766 alleviate testis injury and improve sperm quality by inhibiting the LIMK/cofilin/F-actin pathway during spermatogenesis. Together, these findings reveal a previously unrecognized RhoGDIα/Rac1/F-actin-dependent mechanism involved in spermatogenesis and male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haixia Zhu
- School of Life Science and Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Experimental Teratology, Shandong University, Jinan, 250100, China
| | - Zongzhuang Wen
- Medical Science and Technology Innovation Center, Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, 250117, China
| | - Aizhen Zhang
- School of Life Science and Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Experimental Teratology, Shandong University, Jinan, 250100, China
| | - Dongyue Liu
- School of Life Science and Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Experimental Teratology, Shandong University, Jinan, 250100, China
| | - Hongxiang Wang
- School of Life Science and Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Experimental Teratology, Shandong University, Jinan, 250100, China
| | - Yin Cheng
- School of Life Science and Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Experimental Teratology, Shandong University, Jinan, 250100, China
| | - Xing Yang
- School of Life Science and Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Experimental Teratology, Shandong University, Jinan, 250100, China
| | - Yu Xiao
- School of Life Science and Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Experimental Teratology, Shandong University, Jinan, 250100, China
| | - Jianyuan Li
- Key Laboratory of Male Reproductive Health, National Health and Family Planning Commission, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Daqing Sun
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China.
| | - Bin Wu
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, 250013, China.
- Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China.
| | - Jiangang Gao
- School of Life Science and Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Experimental Teratology, Shandong University, Jinan, 250100, China.
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28
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Zhang G, Jiang C, Yang Y, Wang Y, Zhou H, Dai S, Liu M, Yang Y, Yang L, Shen Q, Zhang T, Zhang X, Yang Y, Shen Y. Deficiency of cancer/testis antigen gene CT55 causes male infertility in humans and mice. Cell Death Differ 2023; 30:500-514. [PMID: 36481789 PMCID: PMC9950085 DOI: 10.1038/s41418-022-01098-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Revised: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The Cancer/Testis Antigen (CTA) genes comprise a group of genes whose expression under physiological conditions is restricted to the testis but is activated in many human cancers. Depending on the particular expression pattern, the CTA genes are speculated to play a role in spermatogenesis, but evidence is limited thus far. Here, we reported patients with a hemizygous nonsense mutation in cancer-testis antigen 55 (CT55) suffering from male infertility with extreme disruption in sperm production, morphology, and locomotion. Specifically, the insufficiency of sperm individualization, excessive residue of unnecessary cytoplasm, and defects in acrosome development were evident in the spermatozoa of the patients. Furthermore, mouse models with depletion of Ct55 showed accelerated infertility with age, mimicking the defects in sperm individualization, unnecessary cytoplasm removal, and meanwhile exhibiting the disrupted cumulus-oocyte complex penetration. Mechanistically, our functional experiments uncovered CT55 as a new autophagic manipulator to regulate spermatogenesis via selectively interacting with LAMP2 and GABARAP (which are key regulators in the autophagy process) and further fine-tuning their expression. Therefore, our findings revealed CT55 as a novel CTA gene involved in spermatogenesis due to its unprecedented autophagy activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guohui Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics/Gynecology, Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
- Key Laboratory of reproductive medicine, Sichuan Provincial maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Chengdu, 610000, China
| | - Chuan Jiang
- Department of Obstetrics/Gynecology, Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Yushang Yang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery and Institute of Thoracic Oncology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Yan Wang
- Reproduction Medical Center of West China Second University Hospital, Key Laboratory of Obstetric, Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Haimeng Zhou
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430072, China
| | - Siyu Dai
- Department of Obstetrics/Gynecology, Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Mohan Liu
- Department of Obstetrics/Gynecology, Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Yanting Yang
- Department of Obstetrics/Gynecology, Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Li Yang
- Reproduction Medical Center of West China Second University Hospital, Key Laboratory of Obstetric, Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Qiongyan Shen
- Reproduction Medical Center of West China Second University Hospital, Key Laboratory of Obstetric, Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Tao Zhang
- Reproduction Medical Center of West China Second University Hospital, Key Laboratory of Obstetric, Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Xiaodong Zhang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430072, China.
- Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, 421000, China.
| | - Yihong Yang
- Reproduction Medical Center of West China Second University Hospital, Key Laboratory of Obstetric, Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
| | - Ying Shen
- Department of Obstetrics/Gynecology, Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
- NHC Key Laboratory of Chronobiology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
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29
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Liu W, Chen M, Liu C, Wang L, Wei H, Zhang R, Ren Z, Chen Y, Luo M, Zhao J, Jiang H, Gao F, Li W. Epg5 deficiency leads to primary ovarian insufficiency due to WT1 accumulation in mouse granulosa cells. Autophagy 2023; 19:644-659. [PMID: 35786405 PMCID: PMC9851269 DOI: 10.1080/15548627.2022.2094671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Primary ovarian insufficiency (POI), also known as premature ovarian failure, is an ovarian defect in humans characterized by the premature depletion of ovarian follicles before the age of 40. However, the mechanisms underlying POI remain largely unknown. Here, we show that knockout of Epg5 (ectopic P-granules autophagy protein 5 homolog (C. elegans)) results in subfertility in female mice, which exhibit a POI-like phenotype. Single-cell RNA sequencing analysis revealed that the knockout of Epg5 affected the differentiation of granulosa cells (GCs). Further investigation demonstrated that knockout of Epg5 blocks macroautophagic/autophagic flux, resulting in the accumulation of WT1 (WT1 transcription factor), an essential transcription factor for GCs, suggesting WT1 needs to be selectively degraded by the autophagy pathway. We found that the insufficient degradation of WT1 in the antral follicular stage contributes to reduced expression of steroidogenesis-related genes, thereby disrupting GC differentiation. Collectively, our studies show that EPG5 promotes WT1 degradation in GCs, indicating that the dysregulation of Epg5 in GCs can trigger POI pathogenesis.Abbreviations: 3-MA, 3-methyladenine; CHX, cycloheximide; CQ, chloroquine; EPG5, ectopic P-granules autophagy protein 5 homolog (C. elegans); GC, granulosa cell; MAP1LC3/LC3, microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3; MII, metaphase II; POI, primary ovarian insufficiency; PB1, polar body 1; SQSTM1/p62, sequestosome 1; WT1, WT1 transcription factor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenwen Liu
- Institute of Reproductive Health and Perinatology, Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, P.R. China,College of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, P.R. China,State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Min Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, P.R. China,College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Chao Liu
- Institute of Reproductive Health and Perinatology, Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, P.R. China,State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Liying Wang
- Institute of Reproductive Health and Perinatology, Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, P.R. China,State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Huafang Wei
- Institute of Reproductive Health and Perinatology, Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, P.R. China,State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Ruidan Zhang
- Institute of Reproductive Health and Perinatology, Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, P.R. China,State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Zhengxing Ren
- Institute of Reproductive Health and Perinatology, Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, P.R. China,State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Yinghong Chen
- Institute of Reproductive Health and Perinatology, Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, P.R. China,State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Mengcheng Luo
- Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Developmentally Originated Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, P.R China
| | - Jianguo Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, P.R. China,College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Hongwei Jiang
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital, and College of Clinical Medicine of Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, P.R. China,National Center for Clinical Research of Metabolic Diseases, Luoyang Center for Endocrinology and Metabolism, Luoyang, P.R. China,CONTACT Hongwei Jiang Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital and Clinical Medicine College, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang471003, P.R. China
| | - Fei Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, P.R. China,College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, P.R. China,Fei Gao State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing100101, P.R. China
| | - Wei Li
- Institute of Reproductive Health and Perinatology, Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, P.R. China,State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, P.R. China,College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, P.R. China,Wei Li Institute of Reproductive Health and Perinatology, Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou510623, P.R. China
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Aparicio IM, Rojo-Domínguez P, Castillejo-Rufo A, Peña FJ, Tapia JA. The Autophagy Marker LC3 Is Processed during the Sperm Capacitation and the Acrosome Reaction and Translocates to the Acrosome Where It Colocalizes with the Acrosomal Membranes in Horse Spermatozoa. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24020937. [PMID: 36674454 PMCID: PMC9862423 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24020937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 12/25/2022] [Accepted: 01/01/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite its importance in somatic cells and during spermatogenesis, little is known about the role that autophagy may play in ejaculated spermatozoa. Our aim was to investigate whether the molecular components of autophagy, such as microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3 (LC3), are activated in stallion spermatozoa during the capacitation and acrosome reaction and if this activation could modulate these biological processes. To analyze the autophagy turnover, LC3I and LC3II proteins were assessed by western blotting, and the ratio between both proteins (LC3II/LC3I) was calculated. In somatic cells, this ratio indicates that autophagy has been activated and similar LC3 processing has been described in mammalian spermatozoa. The subcellular localization of autophagy-related proteins was assessed by immunofluorescence with specific antibodies that recognized Atg16, Beclin-1, and LC3. The colocalization of acrosomal membranes (PNA) and LC3 was studied by confocal microcopy, and the acrosome reacted cells were quantified by flow cytometry. The incubation of stallion sperm in capacitating conditions (BWW; 3 h) significantly increased LC3 processing. This increment was three to four times higher after the induction of the acrosome reaction in these cells. LC3 was mainly expressed in the head in mature ejaculated sperm showing a clear redistribution from the post-acrosomal region to the acrosome upon the incubation of sperm in capacitating conditions (BWW, 3 h). After the induction of the acrosome reaction, LC3 colocalized with the acrosome or the apical plasmalemma membranes in the head of the stallion spermatozoa. The inhibition or activation of autophagy-related pathways in the presence of autophagy activators (STF-62247) or inhibitors (E-64d, chloroquine) significantly increased LC3 processing and increased the percent of acrosome reacted cells, whereas 3-methyladenine almost completely inhibited LC3 processing and the acrosome reaction. In conclusion, we found that sperm capacitation and acrosome reaction could be regulated by autophagy components in sperm cells ex vivo by processes that might be independent of the intraluminal pH of the acrosome and dependent of LC3 lipidation. It can be speculated that, in stallion sperm, a form of noncanonical autophagy utilizes some components of autophagy machinery to facilitate the acrosome reaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ines M. Aparicio
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Molecular Pathology Biomarkers (BICOMCEL), University of Extremadura, 10003 Cáceres, Spain
| | - Patricia Rojo-Domínguez
- Laboratory of Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Extremadura, 10003 Cáceres, Spain
| | - Alba Castillejo-Rufo
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Molecular Pathology Biomarkers (BICOMCEL), University of Extremadura, 10003 Cáceres, Spain
| | - Fernando J. Peña
- Laboratory of Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Extremadura, 10003 Cáceres, Spain
| | - Jose A. Tapia
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Molecular Pathology Biomarkers (BICOMCEL), University of Extremadura, 10003 Cáceres, Spain
- Correspondence:
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31
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Yan Q, Zhang Y, Wang Q, Yuan L. Autophagy: A Double-Edged Sword in Male Reproduction. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232315273. [PMID: 36499597 PMCID: PMC9741305 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232315273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2022] [Revised: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Autophagy, an evolutionarily conserved cell reprogramming mechanism, exists in all eukaryotic organisms. It is a fundamental and vital degradation/recycling pathway that removes undesirable components, such as cytoplasmic organelles, misfolded proteins, viruses, and intracellular bacteria, to provide energy and essential materials for organisms. The success of male reproduction depends on healthy testes, which are mainly composed of seminiferous tubules and mesenchyme. Seminiferous tubules are composed of Sertoli cells (SCs) and various germ cells, and the main functional part of mesenchyme are Leydig cells (LCs). In recent years, a large amount of evidence has confirmed that autophagy is active in many cellular events associated with the testes. Autophagy is not only important for testicular spermatogenesis, but is also an essential regulatory mechanism for the ectoplasmic specialization (ES) integrity of SCs, as well as for the normal function of the blood-testes barrier (BTB). At the same time, it is active in LCs and is crucial for steroid production and for maintaining testosterone levels. In this review, we expanded upon the narration regarding the composition of the testes; summarized the regulation and molecular mechanism of autophagy in SCs, germ cells, and LCs; and concluded the roles of autophagy in the process of spermatogenesis and testicular endocrinology. Through integrating the latest summaries and advances, we discuss how the role of autophagy is a double-edged sword in the testes and may provide insight for future studies and explorations on autophagy in male reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiu Yan
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agriculture University, Lanzhou 730070, China
- Gansu Key Laboratory of Animal Generational Physiology and Reproductive Regulation, Lanzhou 730070, China
| | - Yong Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agriculture University, Lanzhou 730070, China
- Gansu Key Laboratory of Animal Generational Physiology and Reproductive Regulation, Lanzhou 730070, China
- College of Life Science and Technology, Gansu Agriculture University, Lanzhou 730070, China
| | - Qi Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agriculture University, Lanzhou 730070, China
- Gansu Key Laboratory of Animal Generational Physiology and Reproductive Regulation, Lanzhou 730070, China
- Correspondence: (Q.W.); (L.Y.)
| | - Ligang Yuan
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agriculture University, Lanzhou 730070, China
- Gansu Key Laboratory of Animal Generational Physiology and Reproductive Regulation, Lanzhou 730070, China
- College of Life Science and Technology, Gansu Agriculture University, Lanzhou 730070, China
- Correspondence: (Q.W.); (L.Y.)
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32
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Wen Z, Zhu H, Wu B, Zhang A, Wang H, Cheng Y, Zhao H, Li J, Liu M, Gao J. Cathepsin B plays a role in spermatogenesis and sperm maturation through regulating autophagy and apoptosis in mice. PeerJ 2022; 10:e14472. [PMID: 36518274 PMCID: PMC9744162 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.14472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Spermatogenesis and sperm maturation are complex and highly ordered biological processes. Any failure or disorder in these processes can cause defects in sperm morphology, motility, and fertilization ability. Cathepsin B (CTSB) is involved in the regulation of a variety of pathological processes. In the present study, we found that CTSB was abundantly expressed in the male reproductive system, however, the specific role of CTSB in regulating spermatogenesis and sperm maturation remained elusive. Hence, we generated Ctsb -/- mice using CRISPR/Cas9 technology. In Ctsb -/- mice, sperm count was significantly decreased while the level of morphologically abnormal sperm was markedly increased. Additionally, these mice had significantly lower levels of progressive motility sperm and elevated levels of immobilized sperm. Histological analysis showed slight vacuolization in the testis epithelium, as well as the loss of epididymal epithelium cells. Further investigation showed that autophagic activity was inhibited and apoptotic activity was increased in both the testis and epididymis of Ctsb -/- mice. Together, our findings demonstrate that CTSB plays an important role in spermatogenesis and sperm maturation in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zongzhuang Wen
- Medical Science and Technology Innovation Center, Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
| | - Haixia Zhu
- School of Life Science and Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Experimental Teratology, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Bin Wu
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan Central Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Aizhen Zhang
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan Central Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Hongxiang Wang
- School of Life Science and Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Experimental Teratology, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Yin Cheng
- School of Life Science and Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Experimental Teratology, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Hui Zhao
- Medical Science and Technology Innovation Center, Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
| | - Jianyuan Li
- Key Laboratory of Male Reproductive Health, Institute of Science and Technology, National Health Commission, Beijing, China
| | - Min Liu
- Medical Science and Technology Innovation Center, Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
| | - Jiangang Gao
- Medical Science and Technology Innovation Center, Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China,School of Life Science and Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Experimental Teratology, Shandong University, Jinan, China
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Cordero-Martínez J, Jimenez-Gutierrez GE, Aguirre-Alvarado C, Alacántara-Farfán V, Chamorro-Cevallos G, Roa-Espitia AL, Hernández-González EO, Rodríguez-Páez L. Participation of signaling proteins in sperm hyperactivation. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2022; 68:315-330. [DOI: 10.1080/19396368.2022.2122761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Joaquín Cordero-Martínez
- Laboratorio de Bioquímica Farmacológica, Departamento de Bioquímica, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | | | - Charmina Aguirre-Alvarado
- Laboratorio de Bioquímica Farmacológica, Departamento de Bioquímica, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Ciudad de México, Mexico
- Unidad de Investigación Médica en Inmunología e Infectología Centro Médico Nacional La Raza, IMSS, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Verónica Alacántara-Farfán
- Laboratorio de Bioquímica Farmacológica, Departamento de Bioquímica, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Germán Chamorro-Cevallos
- Laboratorio de Toxicología Preclínica Departamento de Farmacia Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Ana L. Roa-Espitia
- Departamento de Biología Celular Centro de Investigación y Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, México City, Mexico
| | - Enrique O. Hernández-González
- Departamento de Biología Celular Centro de Investigación y Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, México City, Mexico
| | - Lorena Rodríguez-Páez
- Laboratorio de Bioquímica Farmacológica, Departamento de Bioquímica, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Ciudad de México, Mexico
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Latino D, Chieffi Baccari G, Di Fiore MM, Cioffi F, Venditti M, Giacco A, Santillo A. Autophagy and mitochondrial damage in the testis of high-fat diet fed rats. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2022; 328:114104. [PMID: 35973585 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2022.114104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2022] [Revised: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
High-fat diet (HFD) affects the physiology of reproduction in males, and many studies have investigated its detrimental effects. In this study, we investigated the cellular response induced by an HFD in the rat testis, focusing on the mitochondrial compartment. After five weeks of HFD, an increase in the levels of malondialdehyde and of reduced form of glutathione in the rat testis indicated an increase in lipid peroxidation. The results showed an increase in autophagy, apoptosis, and mitochondrial damage in the testis of HFD rats. We found a decrease in the protein expression of mitochondrial antioxidant enzymes, such as catalase and SOD2. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed a decrease in the immunofluorescent signal of SOD2, mainly in the spermatogonia and spermatocytes of HFD rats. HFD-induced mitochondrial damage caused a reduction in mitochondria, as evidenced by a decrease in the protein expression of TOM20, a mitochondrial outer membrane receptor. Consistently, HFD enhanced the levels of the PINK1 protein, a mitophagy marker, suggesting the removal of damaged mitochondria under these conditions. Induction of mtDNA damage and repair was stronger in the HFD rat testis. Finally, we found a decrease in the mtDNA copy number and expression of the POLG enzyme, which is involved in mtDNA replication. In conclusion, our results showed that autophagy and apoptosis are activated in the testis of HFD rats as a survival strategy to cope with oxidative stress. Furthermore, HFD-induced oxidative stress affects the mitochondria, inducing mtDNA damage and mtDNA copy number reduction. Mitophagy and mtDNA repair mechanisms might represent a mitochondrial adaptive response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debora Latino
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali, Biologiche e Farmaceutiche, Università degli studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
| | - Gabriella Chieffi Baccari
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali, Biologiche e Farmaceutiche, Università degli studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
| | - Maria Maddalena Di Fiore
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali, Biologiche e Farmaceutiche, Università degli studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
| | - Federica Cioffi
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie, Università degli studi del Sannio, Benevento, Italy
| | - Massimo Venditti
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Università degli studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
| | - Antonia Giacco
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie, Università degli studi del Sannio, Benevento, Italy
| | - Alessandra Santillo
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali, Biologiche e Farmaceutiche, Università degli studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy.
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35
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Role of autophagy in male and female fertility. CURRENT OPINION IN PHYSIOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cophys.2022.100611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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36
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Umer N, Phadke S, Shakeri F, Arévalo L, Lohanadan K, Kirfel G, Sylvester M, Buness A, Schorle H. PFN4 is required for manchette development and acrosome biogenesis during mouse spermiogenesis. Development 2022; 149:276289. [PMID: 35950913 PMCID: PMC9481974 DOI: 10.1242/dev.200499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 07/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Profilin 4 (Pfn4) is expressed during spermiogenesis and localizes to the acrosome-acroplaxome-manchette complex. Here, we generated PFN4-deficient mice, with sperm displaying severe impairment in manchette formation. Interestingly, HOOK1 staining suggests that the perinuclear ring is established; however, ARL3 staining is disrupted, suggesting that lack of PFN4 does not interfere with the formation of the perinuclear ring and initial localization of HOOK1, but impedes microtubular organization of the manchette. Furthermore, amorphous head shape and flagellar defects were detected, resulting in reduced sperm motility. Disrupted cis- and trans-Golgi networks and aberrant production of proacrosomal vesicles caused impaired acrosome biogenesis. Proteomic analysis showed that the proteins ARF3, SPECC1L and FKBP1, which are involved in Golgi membrane trafficking and PI3K/AKT pathway, are more abundant in Pfn4−/− testes. Levels of PI3K, AKT and mTOR were elevated, whereas AMPK level was reduced, consistent with inhibition of autophagy. This seems to result in blockage of autophagic flux, which could explain the failure in acrosome formation. In vitro fertilization demonstrated that PFN4-deficient sperm is capable of fertilizing zona-free oocytes, suggesting a potential treatment for PFN4-related human infertility. Summary: PFN4-deficient male mice exhibit impaired acrosome formation and malformation of the manchette, leading to amorphous sperm head shape, flagellar abnormalities and sterility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naila Umer
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Bonn 1 Department of Developmental Pathology , , 53127 Bonn , Germany
| | - Sharang Phadke
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Bonn 1 Department of Developmental Pathology , , 53127 Bonn , Germany
| | - Farhad Shakeri
- Institute for Medical Biometry, Informatics and Epidemiology 2 , Medical Faculty , , 53127 Bonn , Germany
- University of Bonn 2 , Medical Faculty , , 53127 Bonn , Germany
- Institute for Genomic Statistics and Bioinformatics 3 , Medical Faculty , , 53127 Bonn , Germany
- University of Bonn 3 , Medical Faculty , , 53127 Bonn , Germany
| | - Lena Arévalo
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Bonn 1 Department of Developmental Pathology , , 53127 Bonn , Germany
| | | | - Gregor Kirfel
- Institute for Cell Biology, University of Bonn 4 , 53121 Bonn , Germany
| | - Marc Sylvester
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology 5 Core Facility Mass Spectrometry , , Medical Faculty , , 53115 Bonn , Germany
- University of Bonn 5 Core Facility Mass Spectrometry , , Medical Faculty , , 53115 Bonn , Germany
| | - Andreas Buness
- Institute for Medical Biometry, Informatics and Epidemiology 2 , Medical Faculty , , 53127 Bonn , Germany
- University of Bonn 2 , Medical Faculty , , 53127 Bonn , Germany
- Institute for Genomic Statistics and Bioinformatics 3 , Medical Faculty , , 53127 Bonn , Germany
- University of Bonn 3 , Medical Faculty , , 53127 Bonn , Germany
| | - Hubert Schorle
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Bonn 1 Department of Developmental Pathology , , 53127 Bonn , Germany
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Vurgun H, Sezer G, Yay A. The role of autophagy in paclitaxel and cremophor induced damage to rat testis. Biotech Histochem 2022; 97:433-440. [PMID: 35037532 DOI: 10.1080/10520295.2021.2023759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
Abstract
The anticancer drug, paclitaxel (PTX), is used to treat a variety of solid tumors, but its effects on normal tissues remain unclear. We investigated the effects of different doses of PTX and its vehicle, cremophor EL, on testis using histochemical, immunohistochemical and biochemical methods. We used 30 adult Wistar albino rats divided randomly into five groups: physiological saline was administered to the control group; the sham 8 group received 8 mg/kg cremophor EL; the sham 16 group received 16 mg/kg cremophor EL; 8 mg/kg PTX was administered to the PTX 8 group; and the PTX 16 group received 16 mg/kg PTX. The cremophore content in PTX groups was the same as in the sham group. All treatments were injected intraperitoneally (i.p.) once/week for 4 weeks. Tissue samples were excised 24 h after the last injection. Tissue sections were prepared and hematoxylin and eosin staining was performed to assess testicular morphology. Expression of Beclin-1, LC3A/B and P62 were assessed using immunohistochemistry. Serum and tissue testosterone levels were determined using ELISA. Light microscopy revealed seminiferous tubule damage, irregularities in germinal epithelium and decreased seminiferous tubule diameter in the PTX treated groups. The immunoreactivity of Beclin-1, LC3A/B, and P62 was increased significantly in the PTX groups compared to the control group. Cremophor EL alone damaged the testis, although not as much as PTX. PTX caused significant damage to testicular tissue and increased autophagy of spermatogenic cells; cremophore EL also may play a role in this effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hange Vurgun
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Gulay Sezer
- Department of Medical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey
- Genome and Stem Cell Center (GENKOK), Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Arzu Yay
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey
- Genome and Stem Cell Center (GENKOK), Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey
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38
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Wei Q, Xue H, Sun C, Li J, He H, Amevor FK, Tan B, Ma M, Tian K, Zhang Z, Zhang Y, He H, Xia L, Zhu Q, Yin H, Cui C. Gga-miR-146b-3p promotes apoptosis and attenuate autophagy by targeting AKT1 in chicken granulosa cells. Theriogenology 2022; 190:52-64. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2022.07.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2022] [Revised: 07/03/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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39
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Mega OO, Edesiri TP, Victor E, Kingsley NE, Rume RA, Faith FY, Simon OI, Oghenetega BO, Agbonifo-Chijiokwu E. d-ribose- l-cysteine abrogates testicular maladaptive responses induced by polychlorinated bisphenol intoxication in rats via activation of the mTOR signaling pathway mediating inhibition of apoptosis, inflammation, and oxidonitrergic flux. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 2022; 36:e23161. [PMID: 35822628 DOI: 10.1002/jbt.23161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Revised: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 07/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Male reproductive maladaptive responses are becoming a global health concern and also a social issue. Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are a member of halogenated aromatic environmental pollutants with diverse environmental matrices. This study was conducted to explore the mechanisms of PCBs-induced testicular maladaptive responses and the potential reversal effects of d-ribose- l-cysteine (DRLC) on testicular injury induced by administration of PCBs (2 mg/kg) for 30 days. DRLC (50 mg/kg) was administered orally for 15 days starting from Days 16 to 30 after the initial 15 days of treatment with PCB. All assays were carried out using established protocols. Administration of DRLC at 50 mg/kg after treatment with PCBs enhances body and testicular weights, gonadotropins (luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone), testosterone and poor sperm quality. DRLC also reduced testicular injury score, improved spermatogenesis scoring, reduced oxidative stress biomarkers (malondialdehyde), as well as restored the reduced activities of antioxidant enzymes (glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, and catalase) and decreases pro-inflammatory response (tumor necrosis factor-alpha and NO). More so, DRLC treatment abrogates testicular DNA fragmentation and downregulated p53 and caspase 3 activities and upregulated the concentration of autophagy-related protein (mammalian target of rapamycin [mTOR] and Atg7). DRLC abates testicular deficit induced by PCBs intoxicated rats via activation of the mTOR signaling pathway mediating inhibition of apoptosis, Inflammation and oxidative flux.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oyovwi O Mega
- Department of Hunan Physiology, Achievers University, Owo, Ondo State, Nigeria
| | - Tesi P Edesiri
- Department of Science Laboratory Technology, Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-Uku, Delta State, Nigeria
| | - Emojevwe Victor
- Department of Physiology, University of Medical Sciences, Ondo, Ondo State, Nigeria
| | - Nwangwan E Kingsley
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Basic Medical Science, College of Health Sciences, Delta State University, Abraka, Delta State, Nigeria
| | - Rotu A Rume
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Basic Medical Science, Babcock University, Illisan-Romo, Ogun State, Nigeria
| | - Falajiki Y Faith
- Department of Hunan Physiology, Achievers University, Owo, Ondo State, Nigeria
| | - Ovuakporaye I Simon
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Basic Medical Science, College of Health Sciences, Delta State University, Abraka, Delta State, Nigeria
| | - Bright O Oghenetega
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Basic Medical Science, Babcock University, Illisan-Romo, Ogun State, Nigeria
| | - Ejime Agbonifo-Chijiokwu
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Basic Medical Science, College of Health Sciences, Delta State University, Abraka, Delta State, Nigeria
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Omar NN, Mosbah RA, Sarawi WS, Rashed MM, Badr AM. Rifaximin Protects against Malathion-Induced Rat Testicular Toxicity: A Possible Clue on Modulating Gut Microbiome and Inhibition of Oxidative Stress by Mitophagy. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27134069. [PMID: 35807317 PMCID: PMC9267953 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27134069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2022] [Revised: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Testicular dysfunction is caused by chronic exposure to environmental pollution, such as malathion, which causes oxidative stress, promoting cell damage. Autophagy is a key cellular process for eliminating malfunctioning organelles, such as the mitochondria (mitophagy), an eminent source of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Autophagy is crucial for protection against testicular damage. Rifaximin (RFX) is a non-absorbable antibiotic that can reshape the gut microbiome, making it effective in different gastrointestinal disorders. Interestingly, the gut microbiome produces short chain fatty acids (SCFAs) in the circulation, which act as signal molecules to regulate the autophagy. In this study, we investigated the regulatory effects of RFX on gut microbiota and its circulating metabolites SCFA and linked them with the autophagy in testicular tissues in response to malathion administration. Moreover, we divided the groups of rats that used malathion and RFX into a two-week group to investigate the mitophagy process and a four-week group to study mitochondriogenesis. The current study revealed that after two weeks of cotreatment with RFX, apoptosis was inhibited, oxidative stress was improved, and autophagy was induced. More specifically, PINK1 was overexpressed, identifying mitophagy activation. After four weeks of cotreatment with RFX, there was an increase in acetate and propionate-producing microflora, as well as the circulating levels of SCFAs. In accordance with this, the expression of PGC-1α, a downstream to SCFAs action on their receptors, was activated. PGC-1α is an upstream activator of mitophagy and mitochondriogenesis. In this sense, the protein expression of TFAM, which regulates the mitochondrial genome, was upregulated along with a significant decrease in apoptosis and oxidative stress. Conclusion: we found that RFX has a positive regulatory effect on mitophagy and mitochondria biogenesis, which could explain the novel role played by RFX in preventing the adverse effects of malathion on testicular tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nesreen Nabil Omar
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Modern University for Technology and Information, Cairo 11585, Egypt
- Correspondence:
| | - Rasha A. Mosbah
- Infection Control Unit, Zagazig University Hospital, Zagazig University, El Sharkia 44519, Egypt;
| | - Wedad S. Sarawi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, King Saud University, Riyadh 11362, Saudi Arabia; (W.S.S.); or (A.M.B.)
| | - Marwa Medhet Rashed
- National Center for Social & Criminological Research, Expert, Crime Investigation Department, Giza 3755153, Egypt;
| | - Amira M. Badr
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, King Saud University, Riyadh 11362, Saudi Arabia; (W.S.S.); or (A.M.B.)
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, Cairo 11566, Egypt
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Wang Y, Tian CC, Jiao YY, Liu MR, Ma XS, Jin HX, Su YC, Zhang XY, Niu WB, Yao GD, Song WY. miR-188-3p-targeted regulation of ATG7 affects cell autophagy in patients with nonobstructive azoospermia. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2022; 20:90. [PMID: 35710416 PMCID: PMC9202134 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-022-00951-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA) is one of the most difficult forms of male infertility to treat, and its pathogenesis is still unclear. miRNAs can regulate autophagy by affecting their target gene expression. Our previous study found that miR-188-3p expression in NOA patients was low. There are potential binding sites between the autophagy gene ATG7 and miR-188-3p. This study aimed to verify the binding site between miR-188-3p and ATG7 and whether miR-188-3p affects autophagy and participates in NOA by regulating ATG7 to influence the autophagy marker genes LC3 and Beclin-1. METHODS Testicular tissue from 16 NOA patients and 16 patients with normal spermatogenesis and 5 cases in each group of pathological sections were collected. High-throughput sequencing was performed to detect mRNA expression differences. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), Western blotting, immunohistochemical staining and immunofluorescence were used to detect protein localization and expression. Autophagosome changes were detected by electron microscopy. The targeting relationship between miR-188-3p and ATG7 was confirmed by a luciferase assay. RESULTS ATG7 protein was localized in the cytoplasm of spermatogenic cells at all levels, and the ATG7 gene (p = 0.019) and protein (p = 0.000) were more highly expressed in the NOA group. ATG7 expression after overexpression/inhibition of miR-188-3p was significantly lower (p = 0.029)/higher (p = 0.021) than in the control group. After overexpression of miR-188-3p, the ATG7 3'UTR-WT luciferase activity was impeded (p = 0.004), while the ATG7 3'UTR-MUT luciferase activity showed no significant difference (p = 0.46). LC3 (p = 0.023) and Beclin-1 (p = 0.041) expression in the NOA group was significantly higher. LC3 and Beclin-1 gene expression after miR-188-3p overexpression/inhibition was significantly lower (p = 0.010 and 0.024, respectively) and higher (p = 0.024 and 0.049, respectively). LC3 punctate aggregation in the cytoplasm decreased after overexpression of miR-188-3p, while the LC3 punctate aggregation in the miR-188-3p inhibitor group was higher. The number of autophagosomes in the miR-188-3p mimic group was lower than the number of autophagosomes in the mimic NC group. CONCLUSIONS LC3 and Beclin-1 were more highly expressed in NOA testes and negatively correlated with the expression of miR-188-3p, suggesting that miR-188-3p may be involved in the process of autophagy in NOA. miR-188-3p may regulate its target gene ATG7 to participate in autophagy anDual luciferase experiment d affect the development of NOA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052 China
| | - Cheng-Cheng Tian
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Nanyang Central Hospital, Nanyang, 473000 China
| | - Yun-Yun Jiao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052 China
| | - Min-Rui Liu
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Zhengzhou Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xue-Shan Ma
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052 China
| | - Hai-Xia Jin
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052 China
| | - Ying-Chun Su
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052 China
| | - Xiang-Yang Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052 China
| | - Wen-Bin Niu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052 China
| | - Gui-Don Yao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052 China
| | - Wen-Yan Song
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052 China
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Norizuki T, Minamino N, Sato M, Tsukaya H, Ueda T. Dynamic rearrangement and autophagic degradation of mitochondria during spermiogenesis in the liverwort Marchantia polymorpha. Cell Rep 2022; 39:110975. [PMID: 35705033 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2022.110975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2021] [Revised: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Mitochondria change their morphology in response to developmental and environmental cues. During sexual reproduction, bryophytes produce spermatozoids with two mitochondria in the cell body. Although intensive morphological analyses have been conducted, how this fixed number of mitochondria is realized remains poorly understood. Here, we investigate how mitochondria are reorganized during spermiogenesis in Marchantia polymorpha. We find that the mitochondrial number is reduced to one through fission followed by autophagic degradation during early spermiogenesis, and then the posterior mitochondrion arises by fission of the anterior mitochondrion. Autophagy is also responsible for the removal of other organelles, including peroxisomes, but these other organelles are removed at distinct developmental stages from mitochondrial degradation. We also find that spermiogenesis involves nonautophagic organelle degradation. Our findings highlight the dynamic reorganization of mitochondria, which is regulated distinctly from that of other organelles, and multiple degradation mechanisms operate in organelle remodeling during spermiogenesis in M. polymorpha.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takuya Norizuki
- Division of Cellular Dynamics, National Institute for Basic Biology, Okazaki, Aichi 444-8585, Japan; Laboratory of Molecular Membrane Biology, Institute for Molecular and Cellular Regulation, Gunma University, Maebashi, Gunma 371-8512, Japan
| | - Naoki Minamino
- Division of Cellular Dynamics, National Institute for Basic Biology, Okazaki, Aichi 444-8585, Japan
| | - Miyuki Sato
- Laboratory of Molecular Membrane Biology, Institute for Molecular and Cellular Regulation, Gunma University, Maebashi, Gunma 371-8512, Japan
| | - Hirokazu Tsukaya
- Department of Biological Sciences, Graduate School of Science, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
| | - Takashi Ueda
- Division of Cellular Dynamics, National Institute for Basic Biology, Okazaki, Aichi 444-8585, Japan; Department of Basic Biology, SOKENDAI (The Graduate University for Advanced Studies), Okazaki, Aichi 444-8585, Japan.
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Li Y, Feng Y, Jiang Y, Ma J, Bao X, Li Z, Cui M, Li B, Xu X, Wang W, Sun G, Liu X, Yang J. Differential gene expression analysis related to sperm storage in spermathecas of Amphioctopus fangsiao. COMPARATIVE BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY. PART D, GENOMICS & PROTEOMICS 2022; 42:100966. [PMID: 35150972 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbd.2022.100966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2021] [Revised: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Sperm storage in the female body is an important strategy in animal reproductive behavior. Amphioctopus fangsiao is an economically important cephalopod that has a sperm storage period of up to seven months. There are few studies concerning the mechanism of sperm storage in A. fangsiao. In this study, we performed transcriptome gene expression profiling of the oviductal glands at different phases (presence and absence of sperm storage). In total, 7943 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) comprising 4737 upregulated and 3206 downregulated genes were identified. GO and KEGG enrichment analyses were used to search for sperm storage-related genes. A protein interaction network was constructed to examine the interactions between genes. Nineteen genes associated with immunity, apoptosis, and autophagy were obtained and verified by qRT-PCR. This is the first comprehensive analysis of sperm storage-related genes in A. fangsiao. The results provide basic insights into the complex sperm storage mechanism of A. fangsiao.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Li
- School of Agriculture, Ludong University, Yantai 264025, China
| | - Yanwei Feng
- School of Agriculture, Ludong University, Yantai 264025, China.
| | - Yu Jiang
- School of Agriculture, Ludong University, Yantai 264025, China
| | - Jingjun Ma
- Yantai Laishan District Fisheries and Marine Service station, Yantai 264003, China
| | - Xiaokai Bao
- School of Agriculture, Ludong University, Yantai 264025, China
| | - Zan Li
- School of Agriculture, Ludong University, Yantai 264025, China
| | - Mingxian Cui
- School of Agriculture, Ludong University, Yantai 264025, China
| | - Bin Li
- School of Agriculture, Ludong University, Yantai 264025, China; Yantai Haiyu Marine Science and Technology Co. Ltd., Yantai 264004, China
| | - Xiaohui Xu
- School of Agriculture, Ludong University, Yantai 264025, China
| | - Weijun Wang
- School of Agriculture, Ludong University, Yantai 264025, China; Jiangsu Baoyuan Biotechnology Co. Ltd., Lianyungang 222100, China
| | - Guohua Sun
- School of Agriculture, Ludong University, Yantai 264025, China
| | - Xiumei Liu
- College of Life Sciences, Yantai University, Yantai 264005, China
| | - Jianmin Yang
- School of Agriculture, Ludong University, Yantai 264025, China.
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Zhou L, Yu Z, Xia Y, Cheng S, Gao J, Sun W, Jiang X, Zhang J, Mao L, Qin X, Zou Z, Qiu J, Chen C. Repression of autophagy leads to acrosome biogenesis disruption caused by a sub-chronic oral administration of polystyrene nanoparticles. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2022; 163:107220. [PMID: 35381522 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2022.107220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2021] [Revised: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
As a new widespread contaminant, nanoplastics (NPs) pose a potential risk to human health. Nevertheless, the adverse effects of NPs on the male reproductive system are poorly understood. In this study, we aimed to determine the effects of polystyrene nanoplastics (PS-NPs) (50 nm) on sperm quality, with a focus on the acrosome defects. After 35 days of intragastric administration, sperm quality was decreased and testicular structures were impaired in mice exposed to PS-NPs in both the medium (1.0 mg/kg) and high dose (10 mg/kg) groups. No significant changes were observed in the low dose (0.2 mg/kg) group. Meanwhile, acrosome parameters including acrosome integrity and acrosome reaction were decreased after the administration of PS-NPs. These findings were consistent with the disruption of acrosome biogenesis, as identified by the changed testicular ultrastructure. Additionally, the findings were further validated using seven marker genes (Gba2, Pick1, Gopc, Hrb, Zpbp1, Spaca1 and Dpy19l2) essential for acrosome formation, which showed that two of these genes (Gopc and Dpy19l2) were significantly down-regulated. Moreover, repressed autophagy was observed in the testes of PS-NPs-exposed mice based on autophagy-related protein expression. This phenomenon was further verified in GC-2spd cells treated with PS-NPs (50 μg/mL, 100 μg/mL, 200 μg/mL for 24 h). The potential role of autophagy in such acrosome defects was explored by using the autophagy inhibitor 3-methyladenine (3-MA), autophagy activator rapamycin or beclin-1 siRNA. The results showed that Golgi-associated vesicle disorganization was exacerbated with the 3-MA and beclin-1 siRNA pretreatments, but decreased with the rapamycin pretreatment, and the expression of GOPC and DPY19L2 was also altered. These results indicated that autophagy might be involved in the PS-NPs-induced acrosome lesions based on the regulation of two key acrosome-formation proteins, GOPC and DPY19L2. Altogether, our results will provide new insights into the PS-NPs-induced male reproductive impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lixiao Zhou
- Department of Health Laboratory Technology, School of Public Health and Management, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China
| | - Ziying Yu
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health and Management, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China
| | - Yinyin Xia
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health and Management, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China
| | - Shuqun Cheng
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health and Management, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China
| | - Jieying Gao
- Department of Health Laboratory Technology, School of Public Health and Management, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei Sun
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health and Management, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China
| | - Xuejun Jiang
- Center of Experimental Teaching for Public Health, Experimental Teaching and Management Center, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China; Dongsheng Lung-Brain Disease Joint Lab, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China
| | - Jun Zhang
- Dongsheng Lung-Brain Disease Joint Lab, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China; Molecular Biology Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases, Institute of Life Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China
| | - Lejiao Mao
- Dongsheng Lung-Brain Disease Joint Lab, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China; Molecular Biology Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases, Institute of Life Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China
| | - Xia Qin
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhen Zou
- Dongsheng Lung-Brain Disease Joint Lab, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China; Molecular Biology Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases, Institute of Life Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China.
| | - Jingfu Qiu
- Department of Health Laboratory Technology, School of Public Health and Management, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China.
| | - Chengzhi Chen
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health and Management, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China; Dongsheng Lung-Brain Disease Joint Lab, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China.
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Ureña I, González C, Ramón M, Gòdia M, Clop A, Calvo JH, Carabaño MJ, Serrano M. Exploring the ovine sperm transcriptome by RNAseq techniques. I Effect of seasonal conditions on transcripts abundance. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0264978. [PMID: 35286314 PMCID: PMC8920283 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0264978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Understanding the cell molecular changes occurring as a results of climatic circumstances is crucial in the current days in which climate change and global warming are one of the most serious challenges that living organisms have to face. Sperm are one of the mammals’ cells most sensitive to heat, therefore evaluating the impact of seasonal changes in terms of its transcriptional activity can contribute to elucidate how these cells cope with heat stress events. We sequenced the total sperm RNA from 64 ejaculates, 28 collected in summer and 36 collected in autumn, from 40 Manchega rams. A highly rich transcriptome (11,896 different transcripts) with 90 protein coding genes that exceed an average number of 5000 counts were found. Comparing transcriptome in the summer and autumn ejaculates, 236 significant differential abundance genes were assessed, most of them (228) downregulated. The main functions that these genes are related to sexual reproduction and negative regulation of protein metabolic processes and kinase activity. Sperm response to heat stress supposes a drastic decrease of the transcriptional activity, and the upregulation of only a few genes related with the basic functions to maintain the organisms’ homeostasis and surviving. Rams’ spermatozoids carry remnant mRNAs which are retrospectively indicators of events occurring along the spermatogenesis process, including abiotic factors such as environmental temperature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Ureña
- Departamento de Mejora Genética Animal, CSIC-INIA, Madrid, Spain
| | - Carmen González
- Departamento de Mejora Genética Animal, CSIC-INIA, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Marta Gòdia
- Animal Genomics Group, Centre for Research in Agricultural Genomics (CRAG), CSIC-IRTA-UAB-UB, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Alex Clop
- Animal Genomics Group, Centre for Research in Agricultural Genomics (CRAG), CSIC-IRTA-UAB-UB, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Jorge H. Calvo
- Unidad de Tecnología en Producción Animal, CITA, Zaragoza, Spain
| | | | - Magdalena Serrano
- Departamento de Mejora Genética Animal, CSIC-INIA, Madrid, Spain
- * E-mail:
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Costes V, Chaulot-Talmon A, Sellem E, Perrier JP, Aubert-Frambourg A, Jouneau L, Pontlevoy C, Hozé C, Fritz S, Boussaha M, Le Danvic C, Sanchez MP, Boichard D, Schibler L, Jammes H, Jaffrézic F, Kiefer H. Predicting male fertility from the sperm methylome: application to 120 bulls with hundreds of artificial insemination records. Clin Epigenetics 2022; 14:54. [PMID: 35477426 PMCID: PMC9047354 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-022-01275-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Conflicting results regarding alterations to sperm DNA methylation in cases of spermatogenesis defects, male infertility and poor developmental outcomes have been reported in humans. Bulls used for artificial insemination represent a relevant model in this field, as the broad dissemination of bull semen considerably alleviates confounding factors and enables the precise assessment of male fertility. This study was therefore designed to assess the potential for sperm DNA methylation to predict bull fertility. RESULTS A unique collection of 100 sperm samples was constituted by pooling 2-5 ejaculates per bull from 100 Montbéliarde bulls of comparable ages, assessed as fertile (n = 57) or subfertile (n = 43) based on non-return rates 56 days after insemination. The DNA methylation profiles of these samples were obtained using reduced representation bisulfite sequencing. After excluding putative sequence polymorphisms, 490 fertility-related differentially methylated cytosines (DMCs) were identified, most of which were hypermethylated in subfertile bulls. Interestingly, 46 genes targeted by DMCs are involved in embryonic and fetal development, sperm function and maturation, or have been related to fertility in genome-wide association studies; five of these were further analyzed by pyrosequencing. In order to evaluate the prognostic value of fertility-related DMCs, the sperm samples were split between training (n = 67) and testing (n = 33) sets. Using a Random Forest approach, a predictive model was built from the methylation values obtained on the training set. The predictive accuracy of this model was 72% on the testing set and 72% on individual ejaculates collected from an independent cohort of 20 bulls. CONCLUSION This study, conducted on the largest set of bull sperm samples so far examined in epigenetic analyses, demonstrated that the sperm methylome is a valuable source of male fertility biomarkers. The next challenge is to combine these results with other data on the same sperm samples in order to improve the quality of the model and better understand the interplay between DNA methylation and other molecular features in the regulation of fertility. This research may have potential applications in human medicine, where infertility affects the interaction between a male and a female, thus making it difficult to isolate the male factor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentin Costes
- INRAE, BREED, Université Paris-Saclay, UVSQ, 78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France.,Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, BREED, 94700, Maisons-Alfort, France.,R&D Department, ALLICE, 149 rue de Bercy, 75012, Paris, France.,Université Paris-Saclay, AgroParisTech, INRAE, GABI, 78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Aurélie Chaulot-Talmon
- INRAE, BREED, Université Paris-Saclay, UVSQ, 78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France.,Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, BREED, 94700, Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - Eli Sellem
- INRAE, BREED, Université Paris-Saclay, UVSQ, 78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France.,Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, BREED, 94700, Maisons-Alfort, France.,R&D Department, ALLICE, 149 rue de Bercy, 75012, Paris, France
| | - Jean-Philippe Perrier
- INRAE, BREED, Université Paris-Saclay, UVSQ, 78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France.,Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, BREED, 94700, Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - Anne Aubert-Frambourg
- INRAE, BREED, Université Paris-Saclay, UVSQ, 78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France.,Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, BREED, 94700, Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - Luc Jouneau
- INRAE, BREED, Université Paris-Saclay, UVSQ, 78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France.,Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, BREED, 94700, Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - Charline Pontlevoy
- INRAE, BREED, Université Paris-Saclay, UVSQ, 78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France.,Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, BREED, 94700, Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - Chris Hozé
- R&D Department, ALLICE, 149 rue de Bercy, 75012, Paris, France.,Université Paris-Saclay, AgroParisTech, INRAE, GABI, 78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Sébastien Fritz
- R&D Department, ALLICE, 149 rue de Bercy, 75012, Paris, France.,Université Paris-Saclay, AgroParisTech, INRAE, GABI, 78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Mekki Boussaha
- Université Paris-Saclay, AgroParisTech, INRAE, GABI, 78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | | | - Marie-Pierre Sanchez
- Université Paris-Saclay, AgroParisTech, INRAE, GABI, 78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Didier Boichard
- Université Paris-Saclay, AgroParisTech, INRAE, GABI, 78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | | | - Hélène Jammes
- INRAE, BREED, Université Paris-Saclay, UVSQ, 78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France.,Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, BREED, 94700, Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - Florence Jaffrézic
- Université Paris-Saclay, AgroParisTech, INRAE, GABI, 78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Hélène Kiefer
- INRAE, BREED, Université Paris-Saclay, UVSQ, 78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France. .,Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, BREED, 94700, Maisons-Alfort, France.
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Melia TJ, Reinisch KM. A possible role for VPS13-family proteins in bulk lipid transfer, membrane expansion and organelle biogenesis. J Cell Sci 2022; 135:jcs259357. [PMID: 35267021 PMCID: PMC8976877 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.259357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
At organelle-organelle contact sites, proteins have long been known to facilitate the rapid movement of lipids. Classically, this lipid transport involves the extraction of single lipids into a hydrophobic pocket on a lipid transport protein. Recently, a new class of lipid transporter has been described with physical characteristics that suggest these proteins are likely to function differently. They possess long hydrophobic tracts that can bind many lipids at once and physically span the entire gulf between membranes at contact sites, suggesting that they may act as bridges to facilitate bulk lipid flow. Here, we review what has been learned regarding the structure and function of this class of lipid transporters, whose best characterized members are VPS13 and ATG2 proteins, and their apparent coordination with other lipid-mobilizing proteins on organelle membranes. We also discuss the prevailing hypothesis in the field, that this type of lipid transport may facilitate membrane expansion through the bulk delivery of lipids, as well as other emerging hypotheses and questions surrounding these novel lipid transport proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas J. Melia
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Karin M. Reinisch
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
- Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD 20815, USA
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48
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Omolaoye TS, Hachim MY, du Plessis SS. Using publicly available transcriptomic data to identify mechanistic and diagnostic biomarkers in azoospermia and overall male infertility. Sci Rep 2022; 12:2584. [PMID: 35173218 PMCID: PMC8850557 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-06476-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Azoospermia, which is the absence of spermatozoa in an ejaculate occurring due to defects in sperm production, or the obstruction of the reproductive tract, affects about 1% of all men and is prevalent in up to 10–15% of infertile males. Conventional semen analysis remains the gold standard for diagnosing and treating male infertility; however, advances in molecular biology and bioinformatics now highlight the insufficiency thereof. Hence, the need to widen the scope of investigating the aetiology of male infertility stands pertinent. The current study aimed to identify common differentially expressed genes (DEGs) that might serve as potential biomarkers for non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) and overall male infertility. DEGs across different datasets of transcriptomic profiling of testis from human patients with different causes of infertility/ impaired spermatogenesis and/or azoospermia were explored using the gene expression omnibus (GEO) database. Following the search using the GEOquery, 30 datasets were available, with 5 meeting the inclusion criteria. The DEGs for datasets were identified using limma R packages through the GEO2R tool. The annotated genes of the probes in each dataset were intersected with DEGs from all other datasets. Enriched Ontology Clustering for the identified genes was performed using Metascape to explore the possible connection or interaction between the genes. Twenty-five DEGs were shared between most of the datasets, which might indicate their role in the pathogenesis of male infertility. Of the 25 DEGs, eight genes (THEG, SPATA20, ROPN1L, GSTF1, TSSK1B, CABS1, ADAD1, RIMBP3) are either involved in the overall spermatogenic processes or at specific phases of spermatogenesis. We hypothesize that alteration in the expression of these genes leads to impaired spermatogenesis and, ultimately, male infertility. Thus, these genes can be used as potential biomarkers for the early detection of NOA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Temidayo S Omolaoye
- Department of Basic Sciences, College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, UAE
| | - Mahmood Yaseen Hachim
- Department of Basic Sciences, College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, UAE.
| | - Stefan S du Plessis
- Department of Basic Sciences, College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, UAE.,Division of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa
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Yogo K. Molecular basis of the morphogenesis of sperm head and tail in mice. Reprod Med Biol 2022; 21:e12466. [PMID: 35619659 PMCID: PMC9126569 DOI: 10.1002/rmb2.12466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Revised: 04/27/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The spermatozoon has a complex molecular apparatus necessary for fertilization in its head and flagellum. Recently, numerous genes that are needed to construct the molecular apparatus of spermatozoa have been identified through the analysis of genetically modified mice. Methods Based on the literature information, the molecular basis of the morphogenesis of sperm heads and flagella in mice was summarized. Main findings (Results) The molecular mechanisms of vesicular trafficking and intraflagellar transport in acrosome and flagellum formation were listed. With the development of cryo‐electron tomography and mass spectrometry techniques, the details of the axonemal structure are becoming clearer. The fine structure and the proteins needed to form the central apparatus, outer and inner dynein arms, nexin‐dynein regulatory complex, and radial spokes were described. The important components of the formation of the mitochondrial sheath, fibrous sheath, outer dense fiber, and the annulus were also described. The similarities and differences between sperm flagella and Chlamydomonas flagella/somatic cell cilia were also discussed. Conclusion The molecular mechanism of formation of the sperm head and flagellum has been clarified using the mouse as a model. These studies will help to better understand the diversity of sperm morphology and the causes of male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keiichiro Yogo
- Department of Applied Life Sciences Faculty of Agriculture Shizuoka University Shizuoka Japan
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50
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Qin XY, Shen HH, Zhou WJ, Mei J, Lu H, Tan XF, Zhu R, Zhou WH, Li DJ, Zhang T, Ye JF, Li MQ. Insight of Autophagy in Spontaneous Miscarriage. Int J Biol Sci 2022; 18:1150-1170. [PMID: 35173545 PMCID: PMC8771834 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.68335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 12/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
In some cases of spontaneous miscarriage (SM), the exact etiology cannot be determined. Autophagy, which is responsible for cellular survival under stress conditions, has also been implicated in many diseases. Recently, it is also surmised to be correlated with SM. However, the detailed mechanism remains elusive. In fact, there are several essential steps during pregnancy establishment and maintenance: trophoblasts invasion, placentation, decidualization, enrichment and infiltration of decidua immune cells (e.g., natural killer, macrophage and T cells). Accordingly, upstream molecules and downstream effects of autophagy are discussed in these processes, respectively. Of note, autophagy regulates the crosstalk between these cells at the maternal-fetal interface as well. Aberrant autophagy is found in villi, decidual stromal cells, peripheral blood mononuclear cells in SM patients, although the findings are inconsistent among different studies. Furthermore, potential treatments targeting autophagy are included, during which rapamycin and vitamin D are hot-spots in recent literatures. To conclude, a moderately activated autophagy is deeply involved in pregnancy, suggesting that autophagy should be a regulator and promising target for treating SM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue-Yun Qin
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai 200080, People's Republic of China
- NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation, Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies, Fudan University, Shanghai 201203, People's Republic of China
| | - Hui-Hui Shen
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai 200080, People's Republic of China
| | - Wen-Jie Zhou
- Center of Reproductive Medicine of Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, People's Republic of China
| | - Jie Mei
- Reproductive Medicine Centre, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medicine School, Nanjing, 210000, People's Republic of China
| | - Han Lu
- Departments of Assisted Reproduction, Xin Hua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiao-Fang Tan
- Reproductive Medicine Centre, Affiliated Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, 226006, People's Republic of China
| | - Rui Zhu
- Center for Human Reproduction and Genetics, Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou 215002, People's Republic of China
| | - Wen-Hui Zhou
- Medicine Centre for Human Reproduction, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100020, People's Republic of China
| | - Da-Jin Li
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai 200080, People's Republic of China
| | - Tao Zhang
- Assisted Reproductive Technology Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiang-Feng Ye
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, KK Women's and Children's Hospital, 229899, Singapore
| | - Ming-Qing Li
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai 200080, People's Republic of China
- NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation, Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies, Fudan University, Shanghai 201203, People's Republic of China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Shanghai, 200080, People's Republic of China
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