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Warr N, Siggers P, Carré GA, Bogani D, Brixey R, Akiyoshi M, Tachibana M, Teboul L, Wells S, Sanderson J, Greenfield A. Transgenic expression of Map3k4 rescues T-associated sex reversal (Tas) in mice. Hum Mol Genet 2014; 23:3035-44. [PMID: 24452333 PMCID: PMC4014197 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddu020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Disorders of sex development in the human population range in severity from mild genital defects to gonadal sex reversal. XY female development has been associated with heterozygous mutations in several genes, including SOX9, WT1 and MAP3K1. In contrast, XY sex reversal in mice usually requires complete absence of testis-determining gene products. One exception to this involves T-associated sex reversal (Tas), a phenomenon characterized by the formation of ovotestes or ovaries in XY mice hemizygous for the hairpin-tail (T(hp)) or T-Orleans (T(Orl)) deletions on proximal mouse chromosome 17. We recently reported that mice heterozygous for a null allele of Map3k4, which resides in the T(hp) deletion, exhibit XY ovotestis development and occasional gonadal sex reversal on the sensitized C57BL/6J-Y(AKR) (B6-Y(AKR)) genetic background, reminiscent of the Tas phenotype. However, these experiments did not exclude the possibility that loss of other loci in the T(hp) deletion, or other effects of the deletion itself, might contribute to Tas. Here, we show that disruption to Sry expression underlies XY gonadal defects in B6-Y(AKR) embryos harbouring the T(hp) deletion and that a functional Map3k4 bacterial artificial chromosome rescues these abnormalities by re-establishing a normal Sry expression profile. These data demonstrate that Map3k4 haploinsufficiency is the cause of T-associated sex reversal and that levels of this signalling molecule are a major determinant of the expression profile of Sry.
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Barthold JS, Wang Y, Robbins A, Pike J, McDowell E, Johnson KJ, McCahan SM. Transcriptome analysis of the dihydrotestosterone-exposed fetal rat gubernaculum identifies common androgen and insulin-like 3 targets. Biol Reprod 2013; 89:143. [PMID: 24174575 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.113.112953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Androgens and insulin-like 3 (INSL3) are required for development of the fetal gubernaculum and testicular descent. Previous studies suggested that the INSL3-exposed fetal gubernacular transcriptome is enriched for genes involved in neural pathways. In the present study, we profiled the transcriptome of fetal gubernaculum explants exposed to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and compared this response to that with INSL3. We exposed fetal (Embryonic Day 17) rat gubernacula to DHT for 24 h (10 and 30 nM) or 6 h (1 and 10 nM) in organ culture and analyzed gene expression relative to that of vehicle-treated controls using Affymetrix arrays. Results were annotated using functional, pathway, and promoter analyses and independently validated for selected transcripts using quantitative RT-PCR (qRT-PCR). Transcripts were differentially expressed after 24 h but not 6 h. Most highly overrepresented functional categories included those related to gene expression, skeletal and muscular development and function, and Wnt signaling. Promoter response elements enriched in the DHT-specific transcriptome included consensus sequences for c-ETS1, ELK1, CREB, CRE-BP1/c-June, NRF2, and USF. We observed that 55% of DHT probe sets were also differentially expressed after INSL3 exposure and that the direction of change was the same in 96%. The qRT-PCR results confirmed that DHT increased expression of the INSL3-responsive genes Crlf1 and Chrdl2 but reduced expression of Wnt4. We also validated reduced Tgfb2 and Cxcl12 and increased Slit3 expression following DHT exposure. These data suggest a robust overlap in the DHT- and INSL3-regulated transcriptome that may be mediated in part by CREB signaling and a common Wnt pathway response for both hormones in the fetal gubernaculum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia S Barthold
- Nemours Biomedical Research/Alfred I. duPont Hospital for Children, Wilmington, Delaware
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53
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Hutson JM, Southwell BR, Li R, Lie G, Ismail K, Harisis G, Chen N. The regulation of testicular descent and the effects of cryptorchidism. Endocr Rev 2013; 34:725-52. [PMID: 23666148 DOI: 10.1210/er.2012-1089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
The first half of this review examines the boundary between endocrinology and embryonic development, with the aim of highlighting the way hormones and signaling systems regulate the complex morphological changes to enable the intra-abdominal fetal testes to reach the scrotum. The genitoinguinal ligament, or gubernaculum, first enlarges to hold the testis near the groin, and then it develops limb-bud-like properties and migrates across the pubic region to reach the scrotum. Recent advances show key roles for insulin-like hormone 3 in the first step, with androgen and the genitofemoral nerve involved in the second step. The mammary line may also be involved in initiating the migration. The key events in early postnatal germ cell development are then reviewed because there is mounting evidence for this to be crucial in preventing infertility and malignancy later in life. We review the recent advances in what is known about the etiology of cryptorchidism and summarize the syndromes where a specific molecular cause has been found. Finally, we cover the recent literature on timing of surgery, the issues around acquired cryptorchidism, and the limited role of hormone therapy. We conclude with some observations about the differences between animal models and baby boys with cryptorchidism.
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Affiliation(s)
- John M Hutson
- Urology Department, Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville 3052, Victoria, Australia.
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54
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Harisis GN, Chen N, Farmer PJ, Bodemer D, Li R, Sourial M, Southwell BR, Balic A, Hutson JM. Wnt signalling in testicular descent: a candidate mechanism for cryptorchidism in Robinow syndrome. J Pediatr Surg 2013; 48:1573-7. [PMID: 23895974 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2012.08.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2012] [Revised: 08/31/2012] [Accepted: 08/31/2012] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS Robinow syndrome is caused by mutations in Wnt-5a or its receptor Ror2 and can lead to cryptorchidism, though the mechanisms are unclear. Wnt-5a knock-out mice fail to undergo gubernacular swelling, similar to insulin-like hormone 3 (INSl-3) knock-out mice. We aimed to characterise Wnt-5a and Ror2 expression in rat gubernacula to better understand how Wnt-5a signalling affects testicular descent. METHODS Sprague-Dawley rats (n = 27) were collected with ethics approval (A644) at embryonic days (E) 15, 17, 19 and postnatal day (D) 2. Control and antiandrogen-treated groups were processed for immunohistochemistry for Wnt-5a, Ror2 and β-catenin. Sagittal sections were examined using confocal microscopy. RESULTS Wnt-5a and Ror2 were strongly expressed in the gubernacular bulb at E17 controls, their levels declining at E19 and almost absent by D2. Wnt-5a significantly co-localised with the important transcription factor β-catenin at E17. There was no obvious difference in staining with androgen blockade. CONCLUSION Wnt-5a, through Ror2 and β-catenin may play a vital role in regulating the gubernacular swelling reaction downstream of INSL-3. Human mutations in Wnt-5a or Ror2 could prevent early gubernacular growth, as suggested by undescended testes in 70% of patients with Robinow Syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- George N Harisis
- Douglas Stephens Surgical Research Laboratory, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia
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55
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Zhang X, Hao L, Meng L, Liu M, Zhao L, Hu F, Ding C, Wang Y, He B, Pan Y, Fang W, Chen J, Hu S, Jia M. Digital gene expression tag profiling analysis of the gene expression patterns regulating the early stage of mouse spermatogenesis. PLoS One 2013; 8:e58680. [PMID: 23554914 PMCID: PMC3598852 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0058680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2012] [Accepted: 02/06/2013] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Detailed characterization of the gene expression patterns in spermatogonia and primary spermatocytes is critical to understand the processes which occur prior to meiosis during normal spermatogenesis. The genome-wide expression profiles of mouse type B spermatogonia and primary spermatocytes were investigated using the Solexa/Illumina digital gene expression (DGE) system, a tag based high-throughput transcriptome sequencing method, and the developmental processes which occur during early spermatogenesis were systematically analyzed. Gene expression patterns vary significantly between mouse type B spermatogonia and primary spermatocytes. The functional analysis revealed that genes related to junction assembly, regulation of the actin cytoskeleton and pluripotency were most significantly differently expressed. Pathway analysis indicated that the Wnt non-canonical signaling pathway played a central role and interacted with the actin filament organization pathway during the development of spermatogonia. This study provides a foundation for further analysis of the gene expression patterns and signaling pathways which regulate the molecular mechanisms of early spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiujun Zhang
- College of Life Sciences, Hebei United University, Tangshan, Hebei, China
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing, China
| | - Lili Hao
- CAS Key Laboratory of Genome Sciences and Information, Beijing Institute of Genomics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Lijun Meng
- Department of Environment and Chemical Engineering, Tangshan College, Tangshan, Hebei, China
| | - Meiling Liu
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing, China
| | - Lina Zhao
- College of Life Sciences, Hebei United University, Tangshan, Hebei, China
| | - Fen Hu
- College of Life Sciences, Hebei United University, Tangshan, Hebei, China
| | - Cunbao Ding
- College of Life Sciences, Hebei United University, Tangshan, Hebei, China
| | - Yang Wang
- College of Life Sciences, Hebei United University, Tangshan, Hebei, China
| | - Baoling He
- College of Life Sciences, Hebei United University, Tangshan, Hebei, China
| | - Yuxin Pan
- College of Life Sciences, Hebei United University, Tangshan, Hebei, China
| | - Wei Fang
- College of Life Sciences, Hebei United University, Tangshan, Hebei, China
| | - Jing Chen
- College of Life Sciences, Hebei United University, Tangshan, Hebei, China
| | - Songnian Hu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Genome Sciences and Information, Beijing Institute of Genomics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- * E-mail: (SH); (MJ)
| | - Mengchun Jia
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing, China
- * E-mail: (SH); (MJ)
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Cruciat CM, Niehrs C. Secreted and transmembrane wnt inhibitors and activators. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Biol 2013; 5:a015081. [PMID: 23085770 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a015081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 463] [Impact Index Per Article: 42.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Signaling by the Wnt family of secreted glycoproteins plays important roles in embryonic development and adult homeostasis. Wnt signaling is modulated by a number of evolutionarily conserved inhibitors and activators. Wnt inhibitors belong to small protein families, including sFRP, Dkk, WIF, Wise/SOST, Cerberus, IGFBP, Shisa, Waif1, APCDD1, and Tiki1. Their common feature is to antagonize Wnt signaling by preventing ligand-receptor interactions or Wnt receptor maturation. Conversely, the Wnt activators, R-spondin and Norrin, promote Wnt signaling by binding to Wnt receptors or releasing a Wnt-inhibitory step. With few exceptions, these antagonists and agonists are not pure Wnt modulators, but also affect additional signaling pathways, such as TGF-β and FGF signaling. Here we discuss their interactions with Wnt ligands and Wnt receptors, their role in developmental processes, as well as their implication in disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina-Maria Cruciat
- Division of Molecular Embryology, DKFZ-ZMBH Alliance, DKFZ, Im Neuenheimer Feld 280, D-69120 Heidelberg, Germany
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57
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Warr N, Carre GA, Siggers P, Faleato JV, Brixey R, Pope M, Bogani D, Childers M, Wells S, Scudamore CL, Tedesco M, del Barco Barrantes I, Nebreda AR, Trainor PA, Greenfield A. Gadd45γ and Map3k4 interactions regulate mouse testis determination via p38 MAPK-mediated control of Sry expression. Dev Cell 2012; 23:1020-31. [PMID: 23102580 PMCID: PMC3526779 DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel.2012.09.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2012] [Revised: 09/04/2012] [Accepted: 09/19/2012] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Loss of the kinase MAP3K4 causes mouse embryonic gonadal sex reversal due to reduced expression of the testis-determining gene, Sry. However, because of widespread expression of MAP3K4, the cellular basis of this misregulation was unclear. Here, we show that mice lacking Gadd45γ also exhibit XY gonadal sex reversal caused by disruption to Sry expression. Gadd45γ is expressed in a dynamic fashion in somatic cells of the developing gonads from 10.5 days postcoitum (dpc) to 12.5 dpc. Gadd45γ and Map3k4 genetically interact during sex determination, and transgenic overexpression of Map3k4 rescues gonadal defects in Gadd45γ-deficient embryos. Sex reversal in both mutants is associated with reduced phosphorylation of p38 MAPK and GATA4. In addition, embryos lacking both p38α and p38β also exhibit XY gonadal sex reversal. Taken together, our data suggest a requirement for GADD45γ in promoting MAP3K4-mediated activation of p38 MAPK signaling in embryonic gonadal somatic cells for testis determination in the mouse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nick Warr
- Mammalian Genetics Unit, Medical Research Council, Harwell, Oxfordshire OX11 0RD, UK
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58
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Wong EWP, Lee WM, Cheng CY. Secreted Frizzled-related protein 1 (sFRP1) regulates spermatid adhesion in the testis via dephosphorylation of focal adhesion kinase and the nectin-3 adhesion protein complex. FASEB J 2012; 27:464-77. [PMID: 23073828 DOI: 10.1096/fj.12-212514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Development of spermatozoa in adult mammalian testis during spermatogenesis involves extensive cell migration and differentiation. Spermatogonia that reside at the basal compartment of the seminiferous epithelium differentiate into more advanced germ cell types that migrate toward the apical compartment until elongated spermatids are released into the tubule lumen during spermiation. Apical ectoplasmic specialization (ES; a testis-specific anchoring junction) is the only cell junction that anchors and maintains the polarity of elongating/elongated spermatids (step 8-19 spermatids) in the epithelium. Little is known regarding the signaling pathways that trigger the disassembly of the apical ES at spermiation. Here, we show that secreted Frizzled-related protein 1 (sFRP1), a putative tumor suppressor gene that is frequently down-regulated in multiple carcinomas, is a crucial regulatory protein for spermiation. The expression of sFRP1 is tightly regulated in adult rat testis to control spermatid adhesion and sperm release at spermiation. Down-regulation of sFRP1 during testicular development was found to coincide with the onset of the first wave of spermiation at approximately age 45 d postpartum, implying that sFRP1 might be correlated with elongated spermatid adhesion conferred by the apical ES before spermiation. Indeed, administration of sFRP1 recombinant protein to the testis in vivo delayed spermiation, which was accompanied by down-regulation of phosphorylated (p)-focal adhesion kinase (FAK)-Tyr(397) and retention of nectin-3 adhesion protein at the apical ES. To further investigate the functional relationship between p-FAK-Tyr(397) and localization of nectin-3, we overexpressed sFRP1 using lentiviral vectors in the Sertoli-germ cell coculture system. Consistent with the in vivo findings, overexpression of sFRP1 induced down-regulation of p-FAK-Tyr(397), leading to a decline in phosphorylation of nectin-3. In summary, this report highlights the critical role of sFRP1 in regulating spermiation via its effects on the FAK signaling and retention of nectin-3 adhesion complex at the apical ES.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elissa W P Wong
- Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, Rockefeller University, New York, New York 10065, USA
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59
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Kele J, Andersson ER, Villaescusa JC, Cajanek L, Parish CL, Bonilla S, Toledo EM, Bryja V, Rubin JS, Shimono A, Arenas E. SFRP1 and SFRP2 dose-dependently regulate midbrain dopamine neuron development in vivo and in embryonic stem cells. Stem Cells 2012; 30:865-75. [PMID: 22290867 DOI: 10.1002/stem.1049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Secreted Frizzled related proteins (sFRPs) are a family of proteins that modulate Wnt signaling, which in turn regulates multiple aspects of ventral midbrain (VM) and dopamine (DA) neuron development. However, it is not known which Wnt signaling branch and what aspects of midbrain DA neuron development are regulated by sFRPs. Here, we show that sFRP1 and sFRP2 activate the Wnt/planar-cell-polarity/Rac1 pathway in DA cells. In the developing VM, sFRP1 and sFRP2 are expressed at low levels, and sFRP1-/- or sFRP2-/- mice had no detectable phenotype. However, compound sFRP1-/-;sFRP2-/- mutants revealed a Wnt/PCP phenotype similar to that previously described for Wnt5a-/- mice. This included an anteroposterior shortening of the VM, a lateral expansion of the Shh domain and DA lineage markers (Lmx1a and Th), as well as an accumulation of Nurr1+ precursors in the VM. In vitro experiments showed that, while very high concentrations of SFRP1 had a negative effect on cell survival, low/medium concentrations of sFRP1 or sFRP2 promoted the DA differentiation of progenitors derived from primary VM cultures or mouse embryonic stem cells (ESCs), mimicking the effects of Wnt5a. We thus conclude that the main function of sFRP1 and sFRP2 is to enhance Wnt/PCP signaling in DA cells and to regulate Wnt/PCP-dependent functions in midbrain development. Moreover, we suggest that low-medium concentrations of sFRPs may be used to enhance the DA differentiation of ESCs and improve their therapeutic application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julianna Kele
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology, Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Karolinska Institute, Scheeleväg 1, Stockholm, Sweden
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60
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Tevosian SG. Gone without the WNT: a requirement for WNT5A in germ cell migration and testis development. Biol Reprod 2012; 86:1-2. [PMID: 21957192 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.111.096461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Sergei G Tevosian
- College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, USA.
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61
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Chawengsaksophak K, Svingen T, Ng ET, Epp T, Spiller CM, Clark C, Cooper H, Koopman P. Loss of Wnt5a Disrupts Primordial Germ Cell Migration and Male Sexual Development in Mice1. Biol Reprod 2012; 86:1-12. [DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.111.095232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022] Open
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Mii Y, Taira M. Secreted Wnt "inhibitors" are not just inhibitors: regulation of extracellular Wnt by secreted Frizzled-related proteins. Dev Growth Differ 2011; 53:911-23. [PMID: 21995331 DOI: 10.1111/j.1440-169x.2011.01299.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Gradient formation and signaling ranges of secreted proteins are crucial problems to understand how morphogens work for positional information and patterning in animal development. Yet, extracellular behaviors of secreted signaling molecules remain unexplored compared to their downstream pathways inside the cell. Recent advances in bioimaging make it possible to directly visualize morphogen molecules, and this simple strategy has, at least partly, succeeded in uncovering molecular behaviors of morphogens, such as Wnt (wingless-type MMTV integration site family member) and BMP (bone morphogenetic protein) as well as secreted Wnt binding proteins, sFRPs (secreted Frizzled-related proteins), in embryonic tissues. Here, we review the regulation of Wnt signaling by sFRPs, focusing on extracellular regulation of Wnt ligands in comparison with other morphogens. We also discuss evolutionary aspects with comprehensive syntenic and phylogenetic information about vertebrate sfrp genes. We newly annotated several sfrp genes including sfrp2-like 1 (sfrp2l1) in frogs and fishes and crescent in mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yusuke Mii
- Department of Biological Sciences, Graduate School of Science, University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
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63
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Filipovich A, Gehrke I, Poll-Wolbeck SJ, Kreuzer KA. Physiological inhibitors of Wnt signaling. Eur J Haematol 2011; 86:453-65. [PMID: 21342268 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0609.2011.01592.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Wnt signaling is crucial for cell proliferation and differentiation. It represents a complex network with mechanisms of self-regulation through positive and negative feedback. Recent increasing interest in this signaling pathway has led to the discovery of many new proteins that down-regulate Wnt activity. Here, we provide a short description of the most important and best-studied inhibitors, group them according to the target molecule within the Wnt cascade, and discuss their clinical potential. Although most of the inhibitors discussed here may also interact with proteins from other signaling pathways, we focus only on their ability to modulate Wnt signaling.
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64
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Combes AN, Bowles J, Feng CW, Chiu HS, Khoo PL, Jackson A, Little MH, Tam PPL, Koopman P. Expression and functional analysis of Dkk1 during early gonadal development. Sex Dev 2011; 5:124-30. [PMID: 21654186 DOI: 10.1159/000327709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/28/2011] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
WNT signalling plays a central role in mammalian sex determination by promoting ovarian development and repressing aspects of testis development in the early gonad. Dickkopf homolog 1 (DKK1) is a WNT signalling antagonist that plays critical roles in multiple developmental systems by modulating WNT activity. Here, we examined the role of DKK1 in mouse sex determination and early gonadal development. Dkk1 mRNA was upregulated sex-specifically during testis differentiation, suggesting that DKK1 could repress WNT signalling in the developing testis. However, we observed overtly normal testis development in Dkk1-null XY gonads, and found no significant upregulation of Axin2 or Sp5 that would indicate increased canonical WNT signalling. Nor did we find significant differences in expression of key markers of testis and ovarian development. We propose that DKK1 may play a protective role that is not unmasked by loss-of-function in the absence of other stressors.
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Affiliation(s)
- A N Combes
- Division of Molecular Genetics and Development, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Qld., Australia
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65
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Warr N, Bogani D, Siggers P, Brixey R, Tateossian H, Dopplapudi A, Wells S, Cheeseman M, Xia Y, Ostrer H, Greenfield A. Minor abnormalities of testis development in mice lacking the gene encoding the MAPK signalling component, MAP3K1. PLoS One 2011; 6:e19572. [PMID: 21559298 PMCID: PMC3086927 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0019572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2010] [Accepted: 04/10/2011] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
In mammals, the Y chromosome is a dominant male determinant, causing the
bipotential gonad to develop as a testis. Recently, cases of familial and
spontaneous 46,XY disorders of sex development (DSD) have been attributed to
mutations in the human gene encoding mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase
kinase 1, MAP3K1, a component of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)
signal transduction pathway. In individuals harbouring heterozygous mutations in
MAP3K1, dysregulation of MAPK signalling was observed in
lymphoblastoid cell lines, suggesting a causal role for these mutations in
disrupting XY sexual development. Mice lacking the cognate gene,
Map3k1, are viable and exhibit the eyes open at birth (EOB)
phenotype on a mixed genetic background, but on the C57BL/6J genetic background
most mice die at around 14.5 dpc due to a failure of erythropoiesis in the fetal
liver. However, no systematic examination of sexual development in
Map3k1-deficient mice has been described, an omission that
is especially relevant in the case of C57BL/6J, a genetic background that is
sensitized to disruptions to testis determination. Here, we report that on a
mixed genetic background mice lacking Map3k1 are fertile and
exhibit no overt abnormalities of testis development. On C57BL/6J, significant
non-viability is observed with very few animals surviving to adulthood. However,
an examination of development in Map3k1-deficient XY embryos on
this genetic background revealed no significant defects in testis determination,
although minor abnormalities were observed, including an increase in gonadal
length. Based on these observations, we conclude that MAP3K1 is not required for
mouse testis determination. We discuss the significance of these data for the
functional interpretation of sex-reversing MAP3K1 mutations in
humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nick Warr
- Mammalian Genetics Unit, Medical Research
Council, Harwell, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom
| | - Debora Bogani
- Mammalian Genetics Unit, Medical Research
Council, Harwell, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom
| | - Pam Siggers
- Mammalian Genetics Unit, Medical Research
Council, Harwell, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom
| | - Rachel Brixey
- Mammalian Genetics Unit, Medical Research
Council, Harwell, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom
| | - Hilda Tateossian
- Mammalian Genetics Unit, Medical Research
Council, Harwell, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom
| | - Asha Dopplapudi
- Mammalian Genetics Unit, Medical Research
Council, Harwell, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom
| | - Sara Wells
- The Mary Lyon Centre, Medical Research
Council, Harwell, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom
| | - Michael Cheeseman
- Mammalian Genetics Unit, Medical Research
Council, Harwell, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom
- The Mary Lyon Centre, Medical Research
Council, Harwell, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom
| | - Ying Xia
- Department of Environmental Health and Center
of Environmental Genetics, School of Medicine, University of Cincinnati,
Cincinnati, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Harry Ostrer
- Human Genetics Program, New York University
School of Medicine, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Andy Greenfield
- Mammalian Genetics Unit, Medical Research
Council, Harwell, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
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66
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Kaftanovskaya EM, Feng S, Huang Z, Tan Y, Barbara AM, Kaur S, Truong A, Gorlov IP, Agoulnik AI. Suppression of insulin-like3 receptor reveals the role of β-catenin and Notch signaling in gubernaculum development. Mol Endocrinol 2010; 25:170-83. [PMID: 21147849 DOI: 10.1210/me.2010-0330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
During male development, the testes move from a high intraabdominal position and descend into the scrotum. The gubernaculum, an inguinoscrotal ligament connecting the testis to the lower abdomen, is believed to play a critical role in this process. The first stage of testicular descent is controlled by insulin like3 hormone (INSL3), produced in testicular Leydig cells. Deletion of Insl3 or its receptor, Rxfp2, in mice causes cryptorchidism. We produced Cre/loxP regulated shRNA transgenic mice targeting RXFP2 expression. We have shown that the transgene was able to reduce Rxfp2 gene expression and thus behaved as a hypomorphic allele of Rxfp2. Variable degrees of uni- and bilateral cryptorchidism was detected in males with the activated shRNA transgene on an Rxfp2+/- background. Conditional suppression of Rxfp2 in the gubernaculum led to cryptorchidism. Gene expression analysis of a mutant cremasteric sac using Illumina microarrays indicated abnormal expression of a significant number of genes in Wnt/β-catenin and Notch pathways. We have demonstrated profound changes in the expression pattern of β-catenin, Notch1, desmin, and androgen receptor (AR), in Rxfp2-/- male embryos, indicating the role of INSL3 in proliferation, differentiation, and survival of specific cellular components of the gubernaculum. We have shown that INSL3/RXFP2 signaling is essential for myogenic differentiation and maintenance of AR-positive cells in the gubernaculum. Males with the deletion of β-catenin or Notch1 in the gubernacular ligament demonstrated abnormal development. Our data indicates that β-catenin and Notch pathways are potential targets of INSL3 signaling during gubernacular development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena M Kaftanovskaya
- Department of Human Molecular Genetics, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, 11200 SW 8th Street, Miami, FL 33199, USA
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacques J Tremblay
- Reproduction, Perinatal and Child Health, CHUQ Research Centre, Laval University, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada.
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Johnson KJ, Robbins AK, Wang Y, McCahan SM, Chacko JK, Barthold JS. Insulin-like 3 exposure of the fetal rat gubernaculum modulates expression of genes involved in neural pathways. Biol Reprod 2010; 83:774-82. [PMID: 20631401 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.110.085175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Insulin-like 3 (INSL3) signaling directs fetal gubernacular development and testis descent, but the actions of INSL3 in the gubernaculum are poorly understood. Using microarray gene expression profiling of fetal male rat gubernaculum explants exposed to 10 or 100 nM INSL3, significant changes in expression were identified for approximately 900 genes. Several of the genes showing the largest inductions regulate neuronal development or activity, including Pnoc (34-fold), Nptx2 (9-fold), Nfasc (4-fold), Gfra3 (3-fold), Unc5d (3-fold), and Crlf1 (3-fold). Bioinformatics analysis revealed BMP and WNT signaling pathways and several gene ontologies related to neurogenesis were altered by INSL3. Promoter response elements significantly enriched in the INSL3-regulated gene list included consensus sequences for MYB, REL, ATF2, and TEF transcription factors. Comparing in vivo gene expression profiles of male and female rat fetal gubernaculum showed expression of the Bmp, Wnt, and neurodevelopmental genes induced by INSL3 was higher in males. Using quantitative RT-PCR, the microarray data were confirmed, and the induction of Bmp3, Chrdl2, Crlf1, Nptx2, Pnoc, Wnt4, and Wnt5a mRNA levels were examined over a range of INSL3 concentrations (0.1-100 nM) in male and female gubernaculum. In both sexes, an increasing gene expression response was observed between 0.1 and 10 nM INSL3. These data suggest that INSL3 signaling in the fetal gubernaculum induces morphogenetic programs, including BMP and WNT signaling, and support other rodent data suggesting a role for these pathways in development of the gubernaculum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamin J Johnson
- Nemours Biomedical Research, Alfred I. duPont Hospital for Children, Wilmington, Delaware 19803, USA.
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Bogani D, Siggers P, Brixey R, Warr N, Beddow S, Edwards J, Williams D, Wilhelm D, Koopman P, Flavell RA, Chi H, Ostrer H, Wells S, Cheeseman M, Greenfield A. Loss of mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase kinase 4 (MAP3K4) reveals a requirement for MAPK signalling in mouse sex determination. PLoS Biol 2009; 7:e1000196. [PMID: 19753101 PMCID: PMC2733150 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pbio.1000196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 122] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2009] [Accepted: 08/06/2009] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Sex determination in mammals is controlled by the presence or absence of the Y-linked gene SRY. In the developing male (XY) gonad, sex-determining region of the Y (SRY) protein acts to up-regulate expression of the related gene, SOX9, a transcriptional regulator that in turn initiates a downstream pathway of testis development, whilst also suppressing ovary development. Despite the requirement for a number of transcription factors and secreted signalling molecules in sex determination, intracellular signalling components functioning in this process have not been defined. Here we report a role for the phylogenetically ancient mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signalling pathway in mouse sex determination. Using a forward genetic screen, we identified the recessive boygirl (byg) mutation. On the C57BL/6J background, embryos homozygous for byg exhibit consistent XY gonadal sex reversal. The byg mutation is an A to T transversion causing a premature stop codon in the gene encoding MAP3K4 (also known as MEKK4), a mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase kinase. Analysis of XY byg/byg gonads at 11.5 d post coitum reveals a growth deficit and a failure to support mesonephric cell migration, both early cellular processes normally associated with testis development. Expression analysis of mutant XY gonads at the same stage also reveals a dramatic reduction in Sox9 and, crucially, Sry at the transcript and protein levels. Moreover, we describe experiments showing the presence of activated MKK4, a direct target of MAP3K4, and activated p38 in the coelomic region of the XY gonad at 11.5 d post coitum, establishing a link between MAPK signalling in proliferating gonadal somatic cells and regulation of Sry expression. Finally, we provide evidence that haploinsufficiency for Map3k4 accounts for T-associated sex reversal (Tas). These data demonstrate that MAP3K4-dependent signalling events are required for normal expression of Sry during testis development, and create a novel entry point into the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying sex determination in mice and disorders of sexual development in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debora Bogani
- Mammalian Genetics Unit, Medical Research Council (MRC) Harwell, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom
| | - Pam Siggers
- Mammalian Genetics Unit, Medical Research Council (MRC) Harwell, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom
| | - Rachel Brixey
- Mammalian Genetics Unit, Medical Research Council (MRC) Harwell, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom
| | - Nick Warr
- Mammalian Genetics Unit, Medical Research Council (MRC) Harwell, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom
| | - Sarah Beddow
- Mammalian Genetics Unit, Medical Research Council (MRC) Harwell, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom
| | - Jessica Edwards
- Mammalian Genetics Unit, Medical Research Council (MRC) Harwell, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom
| | - Debbie Williams
- Mammalian Genetics Unit, Medical Research Council (MRC) Harwell, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom
| | - Dagmar Wilhelm
- The Institute of Molecular Bioscience, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Peter Koopman
- The Institute of Molecular Bioscience, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Richard A. Flavell
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
| | - Hongbo Chi
- Department of Immunology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, United States of America
| | - Harry Ostrer
- Human Genetics Program, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Sara Wells
- The Mary Lyon Centre, Medical Research Council (MRC) Harwell, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom
| | - Michael Cheeseman
- Mammalian Genetics Unit, Medical Research Council (MRC) Harwell, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom
- The Mary Lyon Centre, Medical Research Council (MRC) Harwell, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom
| | - Andy Greenfield
- Mammalian Genetics Unit, Medical Research Council (MRC) Harwell, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom
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Pastorelli LM, Wells S, Fray M, Smith A, Hough T, Harfe BD, McManus MT, Smith L, Woolf AS, Cheeseman M, Greenfield A. Genetic analyses reveal a requirement for Dicer1 in the mouse urogenital tract. Mamm Genome 2009; 20:140-51. [PMID: 19169742 DOI: 10.1007/s00335-008-9169-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2008] [Accepted: 12/22/2008] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Despite the increasing interest in other classes of small RNAs, microRNAs (miRNAs) remain the most widely investigated and have been shown to play a role in a number of different processes in mammals. Many studies investigating miRNA function focus on the processing enzyme Dicer1, which is an RNAseIII protein essential for the biogenesis of active miRNAs through its cleavage of precursor RNA molecules. General deletion of Dicer1 in the mouse confirms that miRNAs are essential for development because embryos lacking Dicer1 fail to reach the end of gastrulation. Here we investigate the role of Dicer1 in urogenital tract development. We utilised a conditional allele of the Dicer1 gene and two Cre-expressing lines, driven by HoxB7 and Amhr2, to investigate the effect of Dicer1 deletion on both male and female reproductive tract development. Data presented here highlight an essential role for Dicer1 in the correct morphogenesis and function of the female reproductive tract and confirm recent findings that suggest Dicer1 is required for female fertility. In addition, HoxB7:Cre-mediated deletion in ureteric bud derivatives leads to a spectrum of anomalies in both males and females, including hydronephrotic kidneys and kidney parenchymal cysts. Male reproductive tract development, however, remains largely unaffected in the absence of Dicer1. Thus, Dicer1 is required for development of the female reproductive tract and also normal kidney morphogenesis.
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