101
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Needham KB, Kucera AC, Heidinger BJ, Greives TJ. Repeated immune challenges affect testosterone but not sperm quality. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL ZOOLOGY PART 2017; 327:398-406. [DOI: 10.1002/jez.2110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2017] [Accepted: 08/16/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Katie B. Needham
- Department of Biological Sciences; North Dakota State University; Fargo North Dakota
| | - Aurelia C. Kucera
- Department of Biological Sciences; North Dakota State University; Fargo North Dakota
| | - Britt J. Heidinger
- Department of Biological Sciences; North Dakota State University; Fargo North Dakota
| | - Timothy J. Greives
- Department of Biological Sciences; North Dakota State University; Fargo North Dakota
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102
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Xenotransplantation as a model for human testicular development. Differentiation 2017; 97:44-53. [DOI: 10.1016/j.diff.2017.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2017] [Revised: 08/08/2017] [Accepted: 09/05/2017] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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103
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104
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Wen L, Yuan Q, Sun M, Niu M, Wang H, Fu H, Zhou F, Yao C, Wang X, Li Z, He Z. Generation and characteristics of human Sertoli cell line immortalized by overexpression of human telomerase. Oncotarget 2017; 8:16553-16570. [PMID: 28152522 PMCID: PMC5369984 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.14985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2016] [Accepted: 01/24/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Sertoli cells are required for normal spermatogenesis and they can be reprogrammed to other types of functional cells. However, the number of primary Sertoli cells is rare and human Sertoli cell line is unavailable. In this study, we have for the first time reported a stable human Sertoli cell line, namely hS1 cells, by overexpression of human telomerase. The hS1 cells expressed a number of hallmarks for human Sertoli cells, including SOX9, WT1, GDNF, SCF, BMP4, BMP6, GATA4, and VIM, and they were negative for 3β-HSD, SMA, and VASA. Higher levels of AR and FSHR were observed in hS1 cells compared to primary human Sertoli cells. Microarray analysis showed that 70.4% of global gene profiles of hS1 cells were similar to primary human Sertoli cells. Proliferation assay demonstrated that hS1 cells proliferated rapidly and they could be passaged for more than 30 times in 6 months. Neither Y chromosome microdeletion nor tumorgenesis was detected in this cell line and 90% normal karyotypes existed in hS1 cells. Collectively, we have established the first human Sertoli cell line with phenotype of primary human Sertoli cells, an unlimited proliferation potential and high safety, which could offer sufficient human Sertoli cells for basic research as well as reproductive and regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liping Wen
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji-Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200127, China
| | - Qingqing Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji-Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200127, China
| | - Min Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji-Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200127, China
| | - Minghui Niu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji-Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200127, China
| | - Hong Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji-Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200127, China
| | - Hongyong Fu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji-Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200127, China
| | - Fan Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji-Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200127, China
| | - Chencheng Yao
- Department of Andrology, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Xiaobo Wang
- Department of Andrology, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Zheng Li
- Department of Andrology, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Zuping He
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji-Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200127, China.,Shanghai Institute of Andrology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200001, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai 200127, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
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105
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Boivin FJ, Schmidt-Ott KM. Transcriptional mechanisms coordinating tight junction assembly during epithelial differentiation. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2017. [PMID: 28636799 DOI: 10.1111/nyas.13367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Epithelial tissues form a selective barrier via direct cell-cell interactions to separate and establish concentration gradients between the different compartments of the body. Proper function and formation of this barrier rely on the establishment of distinct intercellular junction complexes. These complexes include tight junctions, adherens junctions, desmosomes, and gap junctions. The tight junction is by far the most diverse junctional complex in the epithelial barrier. Its composition varies greatly across different epithelial tissues to confer various barrier properties. Thus, epithelial cells rely on tightly regulated transcriptional mechanisms to ensure proper formation of the epithelial barrier and to achieve tight junction diversity. Here, we review different transcriptional mechanisms utilized during embryogenesis and disease development to promote tight junction assembly and maintenance of intercellular barrier integrity. We focus particularly on the Grainyhead-like transcription factors and ligand-activated nuclear hormone receptors, two central families of proteins in epithelialization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felix J Boivin
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Kai M Schmidt-Ott
- Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, Berlin, Germany.,Department of Nephrology, Charité Medical University, Berlin, Germany
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106
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Ye L, Li X, Li L, Chen H, Ge RS. Insights into the Development of the Adult Leydig Cell Lineage from Stem Leydig Cells. Front Physiol 2017; 8:430. [PMID: 28701961 PMCID: PMC5487449 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2017.00430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 158] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2017] [Accepted: 06/06/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Adult Leydig cells (ALCs) are the steroidogenic cells in the testes that produce testosterone. ALCs develop postnatally from a pool of stem cells, referred to as stem Leydig cells (SLCs). SLCs are spindle-shaped cells that lack steroidogenic cell markers, including luteinizing hormone (LH) receptor and 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase. The commitment of SLCs into the progenitor Leydig cells (PLCs), the first stage in the lineage, requires growth factors, including Dessert Hedgehog (DHH) and platelet-derived growth factor-AA. PLCs are still spindle-shaped, but become steroidogenic and produce mainly androsterone. The next transition in the lineage is from PLC to the immature Leydig cell (ILC). This transition requires LH, DHH, and androgen. ILCs are ovoid cells that are competent for producing a different form of androgen, androstanediol. The final stage in the developmental lineage is ALC. The transition to ALC involves the reduced expression of 5α-reductase 1, a step that is necessary to make the cells to produce testosterone as the final product. The transitions along the Leydig cell lineage are associated with the progressive down-regulation of the proliferative activity, and the up-regulation of steroidogenic capacity, with each step requiring unique regulatory signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leping Ye
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical UniversityWenzhou, China
| | - Xiaoheng Li
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical UniversityWenzhou, China
| | - Linxi Li
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical UniversityWenzhou, China
| | - Haolin Chen
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical UniversityWenzhou, China
| | - Ren-Shan Ge
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical UniversityWenzhou, China
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107
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW To describe pubertal testicular growth in humans, changes in testicular cell populations that result in testicular growth, and the role of testosterone and gonadotrophins follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) in testicular growth. When human data were not available, studies in nonhuman primates and/or rodents were used as surrogates. RECENT FINDINGS Testicular growth in puberty follows a sigmoidal growth curve, with a large variation in timing of testicular growth and adult testicular volume. Testicular growth early in puberty is due to increase in Sertoli cell number and length of seminiferous tubules, whereas the largest and fastest growth results from the increase in the diameter of the seminiferous tubules first due to spermatogonial proliferation and then due to the expansion of meiotic and haploid germ cells. FSH stimulates Sertoli cell and spermatogonial proliferation, whereas LH/testosterone is mandatory to complete spermatogenesis. However, FSH and LH/testosterone work in synergy and are both needed for normal spermatogenesis. SUMMARY Testicular growth during puberty is rapid, and mostly due to germ cell expansion and growth in seminiferous tubule diameter triggered by androgens. Pre-treatment with FSH before the induction of puberty may improve the treatment of hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, but remains to be proven.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaakko J Koskenniemi
- Institute of Biomedicine, Department of Physiology, University of Turku, and Department of Paediatrics, Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
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108
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Wang H, Yuan Q, Sun M, Niu M, Wen L, Fu H, Zhou F, Chen Z, Yao C, Hou J, Shen R, Lin Q, Liu W, Jia R, Li Z, He Z. BMP6 Regulates Proliferation and Apoptosis of Human Sertoli Cells Via Smad2/3 and Cyclin D1 Pathway and DACH1 and TFAP2A Activation. Sci Rep 2017; 7:45298. [PMID: 28387750 PMCID: PMC5384448 DOI: 10.1038/srep45298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2016] [Accepted: 02/22/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Sertoli cells are essential for regulating normal spermatogenesis. However, the mechanisms underlying human Sertoli cell development remain largely elusive. Here we examined the function and signaling pathways of BMP6 in regulating human Sertoli cells. RT-PCR, immunocytochemistry and Western blots revealed that BMP6 and its multiple receptors were expressed in human Sertoli cells. CCK-8 and EDU assays showed that BMP6 promoted the proliferation of Sertoli cells. Conversely, BMP6 siRNAs inhibited the division of these cells. Annexin V/PI assay indicated that BMP6 reduced the apoptosis in human Sertoli cells, whereas BMP6 knockdown assumed reverse effects. BMP6 enhanced the expression levels of ZO1, SCF, GDNF and AR in human Sertoli cells, and ELISA assay showed an increase of SCF by BMP6 and a reduction by BMP6 siRNAs. Notably, Smad2/3 phosphorylation and cyclin D1 were enhanced by BMP6 and decreased by BMP6 siRNAs in human Sertoli cells. The levels of DACH1 and TFAP2A were increased by BMP6 and reduced by BMP6 siRNAs, and the growth of human Sertoli cells was inhibited by these siRNAs. Collectively, these results suggest that BMP6 regulates the proliferation and apoptosis of human Sertoli cells via activating the Smad2/3/cyclin D1 and DACH1 and TFAP2A pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji- Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200127, China
| | - Qingqing Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji- Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200127, China
| | - Min Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji- Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200127, China
| | - Minghui Niu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji- Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200127, China
| | - Liping Wen
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji- Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200127, China
| | - Hongyong Fu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji- Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200127, China
| | - Fan Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji- Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200127, China
| | - Zheng Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji- Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200127, China
| | - Chencheng Yao
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji- Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200127, China
| | - Jingmei Hou
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji- Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200127, China
| | - Ruinan Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji- Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200127, China
| | - Qisheng Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji- Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200127, China
| | - Wenjie Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji- Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200127, China
| | - Ruobing Jia
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji- Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200127, China
| | - Zheng Li
- Department of Andrology, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 100 Haining Road, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Zuping He
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji- Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200127, China.,Shanghai Institute of Andrology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 145 Shangdong Road, Shanghai 200001, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai 200127, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
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109
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Effects of androgen receptor mutation on testicular histopathology of patient having complete androgen insensitivity. J Mol Histol 2017; 48:159-167. [DOI: 10.1007/s10735-017-9714-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2016] [Accepted: 02/23/2017] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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110
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Chen SR, Hao XX, Zhang Y, Deng SL, Wang ZP, Wang YQ, Wang XX, Liu YX. Androgen receptor in Sertoli cells regulates DNA double-strand break repair and chromosomal synapsis of spermatocytes partially through intercellular EGF-EGFR signaling. Oncotarget 2017; 7:18722-35. [PMID: 26959739 PMCID: PMC4951324 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.7916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2015] [Accepted: 02/13/2016] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Spermatogenesis does not progress beyond the pachytene stages of meiosis in Sertoli cell-specific AR knockout (SCARKO) mice. However, further evidence of meiotic arrest and underlying paracrine signals in SCARKO testes is still lacking. We utilized co-immunostaining of meiotic surface spreads to examine the key events during meiotic prophase I. SCARKO spermatocytes exhibited a failure in chromosomal synapsis observed by SCP1/SCP3 double-staining and CREST foci quantification. In addition, DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) were formed but were not repaired in the mutant spermatocytes, as revealed by γ-H2AX staining and DNA-dependent protein kinase (DNA-PK) activity examination. The later stages of DSB repair, such as the accumulation of the RAD51 strand exchange protein and the localization of mismatch repair protein MLH1, were correspondingly altered in SCARKO spermatocytes. Notably, the expression of factors that guide RAD51 loading onto sites of DSBs, including TEX15, BRCA1/2 and PALB2, was severely impaired when either AR was down-regulated or EGF was up-regulated. We observed that some ligands in the epidermal growth factor (EGF) family were over-expressed in SCARKO Sertoli cells and that some receptors in the EGF receptor (EGFR) family were ectopically activated in the mutant spermatocytes. When EGF-EGFR signaling was repressed to approximately normal by the specific inhibitor AG1478 in the cultured SCARKO testis tissues, the arrested meiosis was partially rescued, and functional haploid cells were generated. Based on these data, we propose that AR in Sertoli cells regulates DSB repair and chromosomal synapsis of spermatocytes partially through proper intercellular EGF-EGFR signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Su-Ren Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiao-Xia Hao
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Shou-Long Deng
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhi-Peng Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yu-Qian Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiu-Xia Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yi-Xun Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
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111
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Shiraishi K, Matsuyama H. Gonadotoropin actions on spermatogenesis and hormonal therapies for spermatogenic disorders [Review]. Endocr J 2017; 64:123-131. [PMID: 28100869 DOI: 10.1507/endocrj.ej17-0001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Microdissection testicular sperm extraction and intracytoplasmic sperm injection have made it possible for men with non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) to conceive a child. A majority of men cannot produce sperm because spermatogenesis per se is believed to be "irreversibly" disturbed. For these men, it has been thought that any hormonal therapy will be ineffective. Further understandings of endocrinological regulation of spermatogenesis are needed and LH or FSH receptor knock out (KO) mice have revealed the roles of gonadotropin separately. Spermatogenesis has been shown to shift during evolution from FSH to LH dominance because LH receptor KO causes infertility while FSH receptor KO does not. High concentrations of intratesticular testosterone secreted from Leydig cells, ranging from 100- to 1,000-fold higher than in the systemic circulation, has pivotal roles during spermatogenesis. This is especially important during spermiogenesis, a post-meiotic step for progression from round to elongating spermatids. Sertoli cells are the target of FSH and have numerous androgen receptors, indicating that Sertoli cells are regulated by FSH and the paracrine functions of testosterone. In combination with Leydig cell-derived growth factors, particularly epidermal growth factor-like growth factors, Sertoli cells support spermatogenesis, especially at proximal levels of spermatogenesis (e.g., spermatogonial proliferation). Taken together, the current knowledge from human studies indicating that testosterone optimization by clomiphene, hCG and/or aromatase inhibitors and high dose hCG/FSH treatment can, at least in part, improve spermatogenesis in NOA. Accordingly hormonal therapy may open a therapeutic window for sperm production in selected patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koji Shiraishi
- Department of Urology, Yamaguchi University School of Medicine, Ube 755-8505, Japan
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112
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Potter SJ, DeFalco T. Role of the testis interstitial compartment in spermatogonial stem cell function. Reproduction 2017; 153:R151-R162. [PMID: 28115580 DOI: 10.1530/rep-16-0588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2016] [Revised: 12/22/2016] [Accepted: 01/23/2017] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Intricate cellular and molecular interactions ensure that spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) proceed in a step-wise differentiation process through spermatogenesis and spermiogenesis to produce sperm. SSCs lie within the seminiferous tubule compartment, which provides a nurturing environment for the development of sperm. Cells outside of the tubules, such as interstitial and peritubular cells, also help direct SSC activity. This review focuses on interstitial (interstitial macrophages, Leydig cells and vasculature) and peritubular (peritubular macrophages and peritubular myoid cells) cells and their role in regulating the SSC self-renewal and differentiation in mammals. Leydig cells, the major steroidogenic cells in the testis, influence SSCs through secreted factors, such as insulin growth factor 1 (IGF1) and colony-stimulating factor 1 (CSF1). Macrophages interact with SSCs through various potential mechanisms, such as CSF1 and retinoic acid (RA), to induce the proliferation or differentiation of SSCs respectively. Vasculature influences SSC dynamics through CSF1 and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and by regulating oxygen levels. Lastly, peritubular myoid cells produce one of the most well-known factors that is required for SSC self-renewal, glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF), as well as CSF1. Overall, SSC interactions with interstitial and peritubular cells are critical for SSC function and are an important underlying factor promoting male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah J Potter
- Division of Reproductive SciencesCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Tony DeFalco
- Division of Reproductive SciencesCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
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113
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114
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Umehara T, Kawashima I, Kawai T, Hoshino Y, Morohashi KI, Shima Y, Zeng W, Richards JS, Shimada M. Neuregulin 1 Regulates Proliferation of Leydig Cells to Support Spermatogenesis and Sexual Behavior in Adult Mice. Endocrinology 2016; 157:4899-4913. [PMID: 27732090 PMCID: PMC5133346 DOI: 10.1210/en.2016-1478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Adult Leydig cells are derived from proliferating stem/progenitor Leydig cells in the infant testis and subsequent differentiation to steroidogenic cells in adult mice. Leydig cell proliferation in the infant testis occurs primarily in response to increased levels of LH that induce Leydig cell expression of neuregulin 1 (NRG1). Depletion of NRG1 in Nrg1 mutant mice (Nrg1flox;flox;Cyp19a1Cre mice) dramatically reduces Leydig cell proliferation in the infant testes, leading to a reduction of testis weight, epididymial weight, and serum T in the adult mutant mice. The mutant mice are subfertile due to impaired sexual behavior and abnormal elongation of the spermatogenic cells. These defects were reversed by T treatment of the mutant mice in vivo. Furthermore, NRG1 alone induces the proliferation of Leydig cells in cultures of infant (d 10) testes obtained from mutant mice. Collectively these results show that LH induction of NRG1 directly drives the proliferation of Leydig cells in the infant testis, leading to an obligatory number of adult Leydig cells required for the production of sufficient androgen to support and maintain spermatogenesis and sexual behavior of adult male mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takashi Umehara
- Graduate School of Biosphere Science (T.U., I.K., T.K., Y.H., W.Z., M.S.), Hiroshima University, Higashi-Hiroshima 7398528, Japan; Laboratory of Sex Differentiation (K.M., Y.S.), Graduate School of Medicine, Kyusyu University, Fukuoka 8258585, Japan; College of Animal Science and Technology (W.Z., Y.S.), Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100 China; and Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology (J.S.R.), Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Ikko Kawashima
- Graduate School of Biosphere Science (T.U., I.K., T.K., Y.H., W.Z., M.S.), Hiroshima University, Higashi-Hiroshima 7398528, Japan; Laboratory of Sex Differentiation (K.M., Y.S.), Graduate School of Medicine, Kyusyu University, Fukuoka 8258585, Japan; College of Animal Science and Technology (W.Z., Y.S.), Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100 China; and Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology (J.S.R.), Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Tomoko Kawai
- Graduate School of Biosphere Science (T.U., I.K., T.K., Y.H., W.Z., M.S.), Hiroshima University, Higashi-Hiroshima 7398528, Japan; Laboratory of Sex Differentiation (K.M., Y.S.), Graduate School of Medicine, Kyusyu University, Fukuoka 8258585, Japan; College of Animal Science and Technology (W.Z., Y.S.), Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100 China; and Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology (J.S.R.), Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Yumi Hoshino
- Graduate School of Biosphere Science (T.U., I.K., T.K., Y.H., W.Z., M.S.), Hiroshima University, Higashi-Hiroshima 7398528, Japan; Laboratory of Sex Differentiation (K.M., Y.S.), Graduate School of Medicine, Kyusyu University, Fukuoka 8258585, Japan; College of Animal Science and Technology (W.Z., Y.S.), Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100 China; and Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology (J.S.R.), Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Ken-Ichirou Morohashi
- Graduate School of Biosphere Science (T.U., I.K., T.K., Y.H., W.Z., M.S.), Hiroshima University, Higashi-Hiroshima 7398528, Japan; Laboratory of Sex Differentiation (K.M., Y.S.), Graduate School of Medicine, Kyusyu University, Fukuoka 8258585, Japan; College of Animal Science and Technology (W.Z., Y.S.), Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100 China; and Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology (J.S.R.), Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Yuichi Shima
- Graduate School of Biosphere Science (T.U., I.K., T.K., Y.H., W.Z., M.S.), Hiroshima University, Higashi-Hiroshima 7398528, Japan; Laboratory of Sex Differentiation (K.M., Y.S.), Graduate School of Medicine, Kyusyu University, Fukuoka 8258585, Japan; College of Animal Science and Technology (W.Z., Y.S.), Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100 China; and Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology (J.S.R.), Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Wenxian Zeng
- Graduate School of Biosphere Science (T.U., I.K., T.K., Y.H., W.Z., M.S.), Hiroshima University, Higashi-Hiroshima 7398528, Japan; Laboratory of Sex Differentiation (K.M., Y.S.), Graduate School of Medicine, Kyusyu University, Fukuoka 8258585, Japan; College of Animal Science and Technology (W.Z., Y.S.), Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100 China; and Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology (J.S.R.), Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - JoAnne S Richards
- Graduate School of Biosphere Science (T.U., I.K., T.K., Y.H., W.Z., M.S.), Hiroshima University, Higashi-Hiroshima 7398528, Japan; Laboratory of Sex Differentiation (K.M., Y.S.), Graduate School of Medicine, Kyusyu University, Fukuoka 8258585, Japan; College of Animal Science and Technology (W.Z., Y.S.), Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100 China; and Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology (J.S.R.), Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Masayuki Shimada
- Graduate School of Biosphere Science (T.U., I.K., T.K., Y.H., W.Z., M.S.), Hiroshima University, Higashi-Hiroshima 7398528, Japan; Laboratory of Sex Differentiation (K.M., Y.S.), Graduate School of Medicine, Kyusyu University, Fukuoka 8258585, Japan; College of Animal Science and Technology (W.Z., Y.S.), Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100 China; and Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology (J.S.R.), Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030
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Rocha JS, Bonkowski MS, França LR, Bartke A. Mild Calorie Restriction Does Not Affect Testosterone Levels and Testicular Gene Expression in Mutant Mice. Exp Biol Med (Maywood) 2016; 232:1050-63. [PMID: 17720951 DOI: 10.3181/0703-rm-52] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis and the somatotropic axis are influenced by nutritional factors. Calorie restriction (CR) extends lifespan but suppresses both the HPG and the somatotropic axes. Since most CR studies use a fairly severe (40%–60%) reduction of calorie intake, we hypothesized that a milder CR (20%) might not be deleterious to reproduction in male mice. To test this hypothesis, we evaluated the effects of 20% CR on testicular testosterone content and on testicular expression of genes that are relevant to testicular function and reproductive competence, including insulin-like growth factor-I, cytochrome P450 aromatase (Cyp19a1), androgen receptor, luteinizing hormone receptor, follicle-stimulating hormone receptor, cytochrome P450c17 and 3-β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase/isomerase. To relate CR effects to the activity of the somatotropic axis, we have used growth hormone–resistant GHR knockout mice as well as transgenic mice overexpressing GH. Mild CR did not affect testosterone levels in testis homogenates and had little effect on expression of the examined genes in the reproductive organs. Altered activity of the GH/insulin-like growth factor–1 axis had a major impact on the parameters analyzed. The results also suggest that expression of several key genes involved in the control of testicular function is preserved under conditions of mild CR and encourage speculation that mild regimens of CR can produce longevity benefits without impairing reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliana S Rocha
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Avenue Antonio Carlos 6627, Pampulha Belo Horizonte, MG 31270-901, Brazil.
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Shubina OS, Dudenkova NA. The effect of lead on the process of spermatogenesis in sex glands of male albino rats. Vet World 2016; 9:1129-1134. [PMID: 27847424 PMCID: PMC5104723 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2016.1129-1134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2016] [Accepted: 08/27/2016] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
AIM The aim of this study was to investigate the morphological and functional features of the process of spermatogenesis in the testes of male albino rats when exposed to lead acetate. MATERIALS AND METHODS Using histological, morphometric and statistical methods explored the effects of lead acetate on the process of spermatogenesis in the testes of male albino rats. Investigations were carried out using a digital microscope Axio Imager. M2 and automatic cell counter Countess™. RESULTS It is shown that when exposed to lead acetate a decrease in the production of all populations of spermatogenic cells, decreased spermatogenesis index and an index of relaxation (tension spermatogenesis), the increase in the index of ripening, index meiotic activity and germinative index, which indicates a decrease in the functional activity of the testes. On preparations, it is possible to see that after the influence of acetate of lead the head of spermatozoa becomes more roundish, breaks of tails observed. CONCLUSION Lead acetate reduces the productivity of the seminal glands, which leads to the decrease of the concentration of spermatozoa, and their viability. The results of the studies suggest a negative impact of lead acetate in the course of the process of spermatogenesis in the testes of male white rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga Sergeevna Shubina
- Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education, M. E. Evseviev Mordovian State Pedagogical Institute, Saransk, Russia
| | - Natalia Anatolievna Dudenkova
- Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education, M. E. Evseviev Mordovian State Pedagogical Institute, Saransk, Russia
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117
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Hazra R, Upton D, Desai R, Noori O, Jimenez M, Handelsman DJ, Allan CM. Elevated expression of the Sertoli cell androgen receptor disrupts male fertility. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2016; 311:E396-404. [PMID: 27354237 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00159.2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2016] [Accepted: 06/24/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Recently, we created a unique gain-of-function mouse model with Sertoli cell-specific transgenic androgen receptor expression (TgSCAR) showing that SCAR activity controls the synchronized postnatal development of somatic Sertoli and Leydig cells and meiotic-postmeiotic germ cells. Moderate TgSCAR (TgSCAR(m)) expression reduced testis size but had no effect on male fertility. Here, we reveal that higher TgSCAR expression (TgSCAR(H)) causes male infertility. Higher SCAR activity, shown by upregulated AR-dependent transcripts (Rhox5, Spinw1), resulted in smaller adult TgSCAR(H) testes (50% of normal) despite normal or elevated circulating and intratesticular testosterone levels. Unlike fertile TgSCAR(m) males, testes of adult TgSCAR(H) males exhibited focal regions of interstitial hypertrophy featuring immature adult Leydig cells and higher intratesticular dihydrotestosterone and 5α-androstane 3α,17β-diol levels that are normally associated with pubertal development. Mature TgSCAR(H) testes also exhibited markedly reduced Sertoli cell numbers (70%), although meiotic and postmeiotic germ cell/Sertoli cell ratios were twofold higher than normal, suggesting that elevated TgSCAR activity supports excessive spermatogenic development. Concurrent with the higher germ cell load of TgSCAR(H) Sertoli cells were increased levels of apoptotic germ cells in TgSCAR(H) relative to TgSCAR(m) testes. In addition, TgSCAR(H) testes displayed unique morphological degeneration that featured accumulated cellular and spermatozoa clusters in dilated channels of rete testes, consistent with reduced epididymal sperm numbers. Our findings reveal for the first time that excessive Sertoli cell AR activity in mature testes can reach a level that disturbs Sertoli/germ cell homeostasis, impacts focal Leydig cell function, reduces sperm output, and disrupts male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rasmani Hazra
- ANZAC Research Institute, University of Sydney, Concord Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Dannielle Upton
- ANZAC Research Institute, University of Sydney, Concord Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Reena Desai
- ANZAC Research Institute, University of Sydney, Concord Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Omar Noori
- ANZAC Research Institute, University of Sydney, Concord Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Mark Jimenez
- ANZAC Research Institute, University of Sydney, Concord Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - David J Handelsman
- ANZAC Research Institute, University of Sydney, Concord Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Charles M Allan
- ANZAC Research Institute, University of Sydney, Concord Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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119
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Zheng W, Pan S, Wang G, Wang YJ, Liu Q, Gu J, Yuan Y, Liu XZ, Liu ZP, Bian JC. Zearalenone impairs the male reproductive system functions via inducing structural and functional alterations of sertoli cells. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND PHARMACOLOGY 2016; 42:146-155. [PMID: 26851377 DOI: 10.1016/j.etap.2016.01.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2015] [Revised: 01/15/2016] [Accepted: 01/19/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of ZEA on the cytoskeletal structure, and factors specifically expressed by Sertoli cells. Primary Sertoli cells from rats aged 18-21 days were exposed to increasing ZEA concentrations (0, 5, 10, 20 μg mL(-1)) for 24 h. The results of immunofluorescence showed disruption of α-tubulin filaments and F-actin bundles, and damage to the nucleus of Sertoli cells on exposure to ZEA. In the control group, the protein level expression of androgen-binding protein (ABP), transferrin, vimentin, N-cadherin, and follicle-stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR) were decreased significantly (p<0.05, p<0.01). The mRNA levels of ABP, transferrin, vimentin, N-cadherin, and FSHR varied significantly in the experimental group (p<0.05). The results of enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay indicated a significant decrease in the levels of inhibin-β and transferrin in the cultural supernatants (p<0.05). Additionally, the ultrastructural analysis indicated the absence of mitochondria and Golgi apparatus, and presence of vacuoles in the cytoplasm. These findings showed that ZEA treatment can damage the cytoskeletal structure and affect specific secretory functions of Sertoli cells, which may be an underlying cause of ZEA-induced reproductive toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- WangLong Zheng
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, China; Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, China
| | - ShunYe Pan
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, China; Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, China
| | - Guangguang Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, China; Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, China
| | - Ya Jun Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, China; Saybagh District Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Station, Urumqi 830000, Xinjiang, China
| | - Qing Liu
- Jiaozuo Entry-Exit Inspection and Quarantine Bureau of P.R. China, Jiaozuo 454001, Henan, China
| | - JianHong Gu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, China; Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yan Yuan
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, China; Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xue Zhong Liu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, China; Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zong Ping Liu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, China; Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jian Chun Bian
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, China; Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, China.
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Zhang L, Ding S, Qiao P, Dong L, Yu M, Wang C, Zhang M, Zhang L, Li Y, Tang N, Chang B. n-butylparaben induces male reproductive disorders via regulation of estradiol and estrogen receptors. J Appl Toxicol 2016; 26:1223-1234. [DOI: 10.1002/jat.3291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2015] [Revised: 12/11/2015] [Accepted: 12/21/2015] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Linyuan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Chemical Safety and Health; National Institute of Occupational Health and Poison Control, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention; No. 29 Nanwei Road , Xicheng district Beijing 100050 China
| | - Sijin Ding
- Key Laboratory of Chemical Safety and Health; National Institute of Occupational Health and Poison Control, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention; No. 29 Nanwei Road , Xicheng district Beijing 100050 China
| | - Peihuan Qiao
- Key Laboratory of Chemical Safety and Health; National Institute of Occupational Health and Poison Control, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention; No. 29 Nanwei Road , Xicheng district Beijing 100050 China
| | - Li Dong
- Department of Environmental Toxicology; Institute of Environmental Health and Related Product Safety, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention; No. 7 Panjiayuan nanli , Chaoyang district Beijing 100021 China
| | - Miao Yu
- Key Laboratory of Chemical Safety and Health; National Institute of Occupational Health and Poison Control, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention; No. 29 Nanwei Road , Xicheng district Beijing 100050 China
| | - Chong Wang
- Department of Environmental Toxicology; Institute of Environmental Health and Related Product Safety, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention; No. 7 Panjiayuan nanli , Chaoyang district Beijing 100021 China
| | - Ming Zhang
- Department of Environmental Toxicology; Institute of Environmental Health and Related Product Safety, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention; No. 7 Panjiayuan nanli , Chaoyang district Beijing 100021 China
| | - Lixia Zhang
- Department of Environmental Toxicology; Institute of Environmental Health and Related Product Safety, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention; No. 7 Panjiayuan nanli , Chaoyang district Beijing 100021 China
| | - Yimin Li
- Department of Environmental Toxicology; Institute of Environmental Health and Related Product Safety, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention; No. 7 Panjiayuan nanli , Chaoyang district Beijing 100021 China
| | - Ning Tang
- Department of Environmental Toxicology; Institute of Environmental Health and Related Product Safety, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention; No. 7 Panjiayuan nanli , Chaoyang district Beijing 100021 China
| | - Bing Chang
- Key Laboratory of Chemical Safety and Health; National Institute of Occupational Health and Poison Control, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention; No. 29 Nanwei Road , Xicheng district Beijing 100050 China
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121
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Hu YC, Namekawa SH. Functional significance of the sex chromosomes during spermatogenesis. Reproduction 2016; 149:R265-77. [PMID: 25948089 DOI: 10.1530/rep-14-0613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Mammalian sex chromosomes arose from an ordinary pair of autosomes. Over hundreds of millions of years, they have evolved into highly divergent X and Y chromosomes and have become increasingly specialized for male reproduction. Both sex chromosomes have acquired and amplified testis-specific genes, suggestive of roles in spermatogenesis. To understand how the sex chromosome genes participate in the regulation of spermatogenesis, we review genes, including single-copy, multi-copy, and ampliconic genes, whose spermatogenic functions have been demonstrated in mouse genetic studies. Sex chromosomes are subject to chromosome-wide transcriptional silencing in meiotic and postmeiotic stages of spermatogenesis. We also discuss particular sex-linked genes that escape postmeiotic silencing and their evolutionary implications. The unique gene contents and genomic structures of the sex chromosomes reflect their strategies to express genes at various stages of spermatogenesis and reveal the driving forces that shape their evolution.Free Chinese abstract: A Chinese translation of this abstract is freely available at http://www.reproduction-online.org/content/149/6/R265/suppl/DC1.Free Japanese abstract: A Japanese translation of this abstract is freely available at http://www.reproduction-online.org/content/149/6/R265/suppl/DC2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yueh-Chiang Hu
- Division of Developmental BiologyDivision of Reproductive SciencesCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio 45229, USA
| | - Satoshi H Namekawa
- Division of Developmental BiologyDivision of Reproductive SciencesCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio 45229, USA Division of Developmental BiologyDivision of Reproductive SciencesCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio 45229, USA
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Targeting the Gdnf Gene in peritubular myoid cells disrupts undifferentiated spermatogonial cell development. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2016; 113:1829-34. [PMID: 26831079 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1517994113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 127] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) are a subpopulation of undifferentiated spermatogonia located in a niche at the base of the seminiferous epithelium delimited by Sertoli cells and peritubular myoid (PM) cells. SSCs self-renew or differentiate into spermatogonia that proliferate to give rise to spermatocytes and maintain spermatogenesis. Glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) is essential for this process. Sertoli cells produce GDNF and other growth factors and are commonly thought to be responsible for regulating SSC development, but limited attention has been paid to the role of PM cells in this process. A conditional knockout (cKO) of the androgen receptor gene in PM cells resulted in male infertility. We found that testosterone (T) induces GDNF expression in mouse PM cells in vitro and neonatal spermatogonia (including SSCs) co-cultured with T-treated PM cells were able to colonize testes of germ cell-depleted mice after transplantation. This strongly suggested that T-regulated production of GDNF by PM cells is required for spermatogonial development, but PM cells might produce other factors in vitro that are responsible. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that production of GDNF by PM cells is essential for spermatogonial development by generating mice with a cKO of the Gdnf gene in PM cells. The cKO males sired up to two litters but became infertile due to collapse of spermatogenesis and loss of undifferentiated spermatogonia. These studies show for the first time, to our knowledge, that the production of GDNF by PM cells is essential for undifferentiated spermatogonial cell development in vivo.
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123
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Smith LB. Nonclassical Testosterone Signaling: A New Pathway Controlling Spermatogenesis?1. Biol Reprod 2016; 94:43. [DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.115.137950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
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Ahmadivand S, Farahmand H, Teimoori-Toolabi L, Mirvaghefi A, Eagderi S, Geerinckx T, Shokrpoor S, Rahmati-Holasoo H. Boule gene expression underpins the meiotic arrest in spermatogenesis in male rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) exposed to DEHP and butachlor. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2016; 225:235-241. [PMID: 26027538 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2015.05.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [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: 02/14/2015] [Revised: 04/25/2015] [Accepted: 05/07/2015] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Boule, the ancestor of the DAZ (Deleted in AZoospermia) gene family, in most organisms is mainly involved in male meiosis. The present study investigates the effects of the plasticizer DEHP (50mg/kg body weight) and herbicide butachlor (0.39mg/L) on male rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) for a 10-day period in two independent experiments. The results showed that plasma testosterone (T) concentrations were significantly lower in fish exposed to either DEHP or butachlor compared to the control fish (P<0.05). Fish showed a significantly elevated hepatosomatic index (HSI) in the butachlor treatment (P<0.05). However, no significant difference was observed in HSI values in the DEHP treatment (P>0.05). In addition, no significant differences were found in the gonadosomatic index (GSI) in both DEHP and butachlor treatments (P>0.05). Histologically, testes of male trout in the control groups were well differentiated and filled with large numbers of cystic structures containing spermatozoa. In contrast, the testes of male trout contained mostly spermatocytes with few spermatozoa in both treated group, suggesting that DEHP and butachlor may inhibit the progression of meiosis. Also, boule gene expression was significantly lower in the testes of male trout affected by DEHP and butachlor in comparison with their control groups (P<0.05), which confirmed the meiotic arrest in affected trout. Based on the results, the present study demonstrated that DEHP and butachlor can inhibit the progression of spermatogenesis in male trout, potentially by causing an arrest of meiosis, maybe due to down-regulation of boule gene expression through T and/or IGF1 via ERK1/2 signaling in T-independent pathways. In addition, these results confirmed that boule can be considered as a predictive marker to assess meiotic efficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sohrab Ahmadivand
- Department of Aquatic Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, P.O. Box: 14155-6453, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Hamid Farahmand
- Department of Fisheries, Faculty of Natural Resources, University of Tehran, P.O. Box 4314, Karaj, Iran
| | - Ladan Teimoori-Toolabi
- Molecular Medicine Department, Biotechnology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, P.O. Box: 13169-43551, Tehran, Iran
| | - Alireza Mirvaghefi
- Department of Fisheries, Faculty of Natural Resources, University of Tehran, P.O. Box 4314, Karaj, Iran
| | - Soheil Eagderi
- Department of Fisheries, Faculty of Natural Resources, University of Tehran, P.O. Box 4314, Karaj, Iran
| | - Tom Geerinckx
- Department of Biology, Evolutionary Morphology of Vertebrates, Ghent University (UGent), 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Sara Shokrpoor
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, P.O. Box: 14155-6453, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hooman Rahmati-Holasoo
- Department of Aquatic Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, P.O. Box: 14155-6453, Tehran, Iran
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125
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O'Hara L, Smith LB. Development and Characterization of Cell-Specific Androgen Receptor Knockout Mice. Methods Mol Biol 2016; 1443:219-248. [PMID: 27246343 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-3724-0_14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Conditional gene targeting has revolutionized molecular genetic analysis of nuclear receptor proteins, however development and analysis of such conditional knockouts is far from simple, with many caveats and pitfalls waiting to snare the novice or unprepared. In this chapter, we describe our experience of generating and analyzing mouse models with conditional ablation of the androgen receptor (AR) from tissues of the reproductive system and other organs. The guidance, suggestions, and protocols outlined in the chapter provide the key starting point for analyses of conditional-ARKO mice, completing them as described provides an excellent framework for further focussed project-specific analyses, and applies equally well to analysis of reproductive tissues from any mouse model generated through conditional gene targeting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura O'Hara
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH16 4TJ, UK
| | - Lee B Smith
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH16 4TJ, UK.
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126
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Yangjing Capsule Ameliorates Spermatogenesis in Male Mice Exposed to Cyclophosphamide. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2015; 2015:980583. [PMID: 26798404 PMCID: PMC4698885 DOI: 10.1155/2015/980583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2015] [Accepted: 12/02/2015] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Yangjing capsule (YC), a traditional Chinese compound herbal preparation, has been proven as an effective drug to improve spermatogenesis in clinical practice. However, its pharmacological mechanisms were not fully clarified. This study was designed to investigate the protective effects of YC on spermatogenesis in the mouse model of spermatogenesis dysfunction induced by cyclophosphamide (CP). The administration of YC significantly increased the epididymal index, sperm count, and sperm motility of model mice. Histopathological changes demonstrated that CP caused obvious structural damage to testis, which were reversed by the administration of YC. Results from TUNEL assay showed that treatment with YC dramatically decreased the apoptosis of spermatogenic cell induced by CP. Moreover, YC treatment could inhibit the mRNA and protein expression of Bax to Bcl-2 and also raised expression of AR at both mRNA and protein levels. These data suggest that YC might ameliorate spermatogenesis in male mice exposed to CP through inhibiting the apoptosis of spermatogenic cell and enhancing the actions of testosterone in spermatogenesis.
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127
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Ayala ME, Velázquez DE, Mendoza JL, Monroy J, Domínguez R, Cárdenas M, Aragón A. Dorsal and medial raphe nuclei participate differentially in reproductive functions of the male rat. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2015; 13:132. [PMID: 26643556 PMCID: PMC4672486 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-015-0130-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2015] [Accepted: 09/18/2015] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Innervation of the hypothalamus and median eminence arise from the dorsal and medial raphe nuclei (DRN and MRN, respectively). The hypothalamus regulates the secretion of gonadotropins, which in turn regulate the reproductive function of males and females. However, it is not known the role of raphe nuclei in male reproductive function. Our goal was to investigate the role of the DRN and MRN in the regulation of the testicular function and secretion of gonadotropins in prepubertal rats. METHODS Dihydroxytryptamine (5,6-DHT) in ascorbic acid was used to chemically lesion the DRN or MRN. Rats were treated at 30 days-of-age and sacrificed at 45 or 65 days-of-age. Sham-treated controls were injected with ascorbic acid only. Negative controls were untreated rats. The damage induced by the 5,6-DHT was monitored in coronal serial sections of DRN and MRN; only the animals in which lesion of the DRN or MRN was detected were included in this study. As output parameters, we measured the concentrations of noradrenaline (NA), dopamine (DA) and serotonin (5-HT) in the anterior (AH) and medial (MH) hypothalamus by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC); whereas, circulating concentrations of gonadotropins and sexual steroids were measured by radioimmunoassay. Seminiferous epithelium and sperm quality were also evaluated. RESULTS Lesion of DRN or MRN does not induced changes in concentrations of LH, progesterone, and testosterone. Compared with the control group, the sham or lesion of the DRN or MRN did not modify noradrenaline or dopamine concentrations in the AH and MH at 45 or 65 days of age. Meanwhile, serotonin concentrations decreased significantly in lesioned rats. Lesion of DRN induced significantly lower concentrations of FSH regardless of age; similar lesion in the MRN had no impact on FSH levels. Sperm concentration and motility were significantly decreased in the same animals. The lesion of the MRN does not induced changes in the seminiferous epithelium or gonadotropin levels. Our results suggest that raphe nuclei regulate differentially the male reproductive functions. CONCLUSIONS The DRN but not the MRN regulates the secretion of gonadotropins and testicular function.
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Affiliation(s)
- María E Ayala
- Unidad de Investigación en Biología de la Reproducción, Laboratorio de Pubertad, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Zaragoza, UNAM. AP 9-020, CP 15000, Distrito Federal, México.
| | - Diana E Velázquez
- Unidad de Investigación en Biología de la Reproducción, Laboratorio de Pubertad, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Zaragoza, UNAM. AP 9-020, CP 15000, Distrito Federal, México.
| | - Juan L Mendoza
- Unidad de Investigación en Biología de la Reproducción, Laboratorio de Pubertad, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Zaragoza, UNAM. AP 9-020, CP 15000, Distrito Federal, México.
| | - Juana Monroy
- Unidad de Investigación en Biología de la Reproducción, Laboratorio de Pubertad, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Zaragoza, UNAM. AP 9-020, CP 15000, Distrito Federal, México.
| | - Roberto Domínguez
- Unidad de Investigación en Biología de la Reproducción, Laboratorio de Pubertad, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Zaragoza, UNAM. AP 9-020, CP 15000, Distrito Federal, México.
| | - Mario Cárdenas
- Laboratorio de Hormonas Proteicas, Instituto de Ciencias Médicas y de la Salud Salvador Subirán, Tlalpan, CP 14000, México, D.F., México.
| | - Andrés Aragón
- Ciencia, Tecnología e Informática Aplicadas a la Reproducción S A, Texcoco, CP 56200, Estado de México, México.
- Instituto Tecnológico del Altiplano de Tlaxcala, San Diego Xocoyucan, CP 90122, Tlaxcala, México.
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128
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Toocheck C, Clister T, Shupe J, Crum C, Ravindranathan P, Lee TK, Ahn JM, Raj GV, Sukhwani M, Orwig KE, Walker WH. Mouse Spermatogenesis Requires Classical and Nonclassical Testosterone Signaling. Biol Reprod 2015; 94:11. [PMID: 26607719 PMCID: PMC4809556 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.115.132068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2015] [Accepted: 11/16/2015] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Testosterone acts though the androgen receptor in Sertoli cells to support germ cell development (spermatogenesis) and male fertility, but the molecular and cellular mechanisms by which testosterone acts are not well understood. Previously, we found that in addition to acting through androgen receptor to directly regulate gene expression (classical testosterone signaling pathway), testosterone acts through a nonclassical pathway via the androgen receptor to rapidly activate kinases that are known to regulate spermatogenesis. In this study, we provide the first evidence that nonclassical testosterone signaling occurs in vivo as the MAP kinase cascade is rapidly activated in Sertoli cells within the testis by increasing testosterone levels in the rat. We find that either classical or nonclassical signaling regulates testosterone-mediated Rhox5 gene expression in Sertoli cells within testis explants. The selective activation of classical or nonclassical signaling pathways in Sertoli cells within testis explants also resulted in the differential activation of the Zbtb16 and c-Kit genes in adjacent spermatogonia germ cells. Delivery of an inhibitor of either pathway to Sertoli cells of mouse testes disrupted the blood-testis barrier that is essential for spermatogenesis. Furthermore, an inhibitor of nonclassical testosterone signaling blocked meiosis in pubertal mice and caused the loss of meiotic and postmeiotic germ cells in adult mouse testes. An inhibitor of the classical pathway caused the premature release of immature germ cells. Collectively, these observations indicate that classical and nonclassical testosterone signaling regulate overlapping and distinct functions that are required for the maintenance of spermatogenesis and male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corey Toocheck
- Center for Research in Reproductive Physiology, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Magee Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Terri Clister
- Center for Research in Reproductive Physiology, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Magee Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - John Shupe
- Center for Research in Reproductive Physiology, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Magee Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Chelsea Crum
- Center for Research in Reproductive Physiology, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Magee Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Preethi Ravindranathan
- Department of Urology, University of Texas, Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, Dallas, Texas
| | - Tae-Kyung Lee
- Department of Chemistry, University of Texas, Dallas, Richardson, Texas
| | - Jung-Mo Ahn
- Department of Chemistry, University of Texas, Dallas, Richardson, Texas
| | - Ganesh V Raj
- Department of Urology, University of Texas, Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, Dallas, Texas
| | - Meena Sukhwani
- Center for Research in Reproductive Physiology, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Magee Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Kyle E Orwig
- Center for Research in Reproductive Physiology, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Magee Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - William H Walker
- Center for Research in Reproductive Physiology, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Magee Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
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129
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Chojnacka K, Mruk DD. The Src non-receptor tyrosine kinase paradigm: New insights into mammalian Sertoli cell biology. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2015; 415:133-42. [PMID: 26296907 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2015.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2015] [Revised: 07/27/2015] [Accepted: 08/09/2015] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Src kinases are non-receptor tyrosine kinases that phosphorylate diverse substrates, which control processes such as cell proliferation, differentiation and survival; cell adhesion; and cell motility. c-Src, the prototypical member of this protein family, is widely expressed by several organs that include the testis. In the seminiferous epithelium of the adult rat testis, c-Src is highest at the tubule lumen during the release of mature spermatids. Other studies show that testosterone regulates spermatid adhesion to Sertoli cells via c-Src, indicating Src phosphorylates key substrates that prompt the disassembly of Sertoli cell-spermatid junctions. A more recent in vitro study reveals that c-Src participates in the internalization of proteins that constitute the blood-testis barrier, which is present between Sertoli cells, suggesting a similar mechanism of junction disassembly is at play during spermiation. In this review, we discuss recent findings on c-Src, with an emphasis on its role in spermatogenesis in the mammalian testis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Dolores D Mruk
- Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, USA.
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130
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Smith LB, O'Shaughnessy PJ, Rebourcet D. Cell-specific ablation in the testis: what have we learned? Andrology 2015; 3:1035-49. [PMID: 26446427 PMCID: PMC4950036 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2015] [Revised: 08/19/2015] [Accepted: 08/19/2015] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Testicular development and function is the culmination of a complex process of autocrine, paracrine and endocrine interactions between multiple cell types. Dissecting this has classically involved the use of systemic treatments to perturb endocrine function, or more recently, transgenic models to knockout individual genes. However, targeting genes one at a time does not capture the more wide‐ranging role of each cell type in its entirety. An often overlooked, but extremely powerful approach to elucidate cellular function is the use of cell ablation strategies, specifically removing one cellular population and examining the resultant impacts on development and function. Cell ablation studies reveal a more holistic overview of cell–cell interactions. This not only identifies important roles for the ablated cell type, which warrant further downstream study, but also, and importantly, reveals functions within the tissue that occur completely independently of the ablated cell type. To date, cell ablation studies in the testis have specifically removed germ cells, Leydig cells, macrophages and recently Sertoli cells. These studies have provided great leaps in understanding not possible via other approaches; as such, cell ablation represents an essential component in the researchers’ tool‐kit, and should be viewed as a complement to the more mainstream approaches to advancing our understanding of testis biology. In this review, we summarise the cell ablation models used in the testis, and discuss what each of these have taught us about testis development and function.
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Affiliation(s)
- L B Smith
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, UK
| | - P J O'Shaughnessy
- College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow, Garscube Campus, Glasgow, UK
| | - D Rebourcet
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, UK
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131
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Li Y, Lin S, Luo M, Guo H, Chen J, Ma Q, Gu Y, Jiang Z, Gui Y. FAM170B, a novel acrosomal protein involved in fertilization in mice. Mol Reprod Dev 2015; 82:787-96. [PMID: 26179146 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.22523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2014] [Accepted: 07/06/2015] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The acrosome is a specialized organelle that covers the anterior region of the sperm nucleus, and plays an essential role in mammalian fertilization. Although acrosome biogenesis is an important aspect of spermiogenesis, the molecular mechanism that regulates this event remains unknown. In the present study, we identified a novel gene, Fam170b (family with sequence similarity 170, member B), exclusively expressed in mouse testes. Fam170b expression first started at postnatal week 3, and increased in an age-dependent manner until plateauing in adulthood. Immunofluorescence staining revealed its enrichment in round spermatids, and redistribution to a perinuclear spot adjacent to the Golgi and the acrosome of elongating spermatids and spermatozoa; this localization was shared between mouse and human spermatozoa. Anti-FAM170B antibody was remarkably found to inhibit murine in vitro fertilization, specifically blocking the acrosome reaction. We further determined that FAM170B interacts with GOPC (Golgi-associated PDZ and coiled-coil motif containing protein) during acrosome formation, as verified by immunofluorescence and co-immunoprecipitation assays. Thus, we document the expression and function for the endogenous acrosomal protein FAM170B during spermiogenesis and fertilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuchi Li
- Guangdong and Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Male Reproductive Medicine and Genetics, Institute of Urology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen PKU-HKUST Medical Center, Shenzhen, P.R. China
- Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, P.R. China
| | - Shouren Lin
- Guangdong and Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Male Reproductive Medicine and Genetics, Institute of Urology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen PKU-HKUST Medical Center, Shenzhen, P.R. China
| | - Manling Luo
- Guangdong and Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Male Reproductive Medicine and Genetics, Institute of Urology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen PKU-HKUST Medical Center, Shenzhen, P.R. China
- Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, P.R. China
| | - Huan Guo
- Guangdong and Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Male Reproductive Medicine and Genetics, Institute of Urology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen PKU-HKUST Medical Center, Shenzhen, P.R. China
- Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Jianbo Chen
- Guangdong and Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Male Reproductive Medicine and Genetics, Institute of Urology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen PKU-HKUST Medical Center, Shenzhen, P.R. China
- Anhui Medical University, Hefei, P.R. China
| | - Qian Ma
- Guangdong and Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Male Reproductive Medicine and Genetics, Institute of Urology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen PKU-HKUST Medical Center, Shenzhen, P.R. China
| | - Yanli Gu
- Guangdong and Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Male Reproductive Medicine and Genetics, Institute of Urology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen PKU-HKUST Medical Center, Shenzhen, P.R. China
| | - Zhimao Jiang
- Guangdong and Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Male Reproductive Medicine and Genetics, Institute of Urology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen PKU-HKUST Medical Center, Shenzhen, P.R. China
| | - Yaoting Gui
- Guangdong and Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Male Reproductive Medicine and Genetics, Institute of Urology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen PKU-HKUST Medical Center, Shenzhen, P.R. China
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132
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Abstract
Vertebrate reproduction requires a myriad of precisely orchestrated events-in particular, the maternal production of oocytes, the paternal production of sperm, successful fertilization, and initiation of early embryonic cell divisions. These processes are governed by a host of signaling pathways. Protein kinase and phosphatase signaling pathways involving Mos, CDK1, RSK, and PP2A regulate meiosis during maturation of the oocyte. Steroid signals-specifically testosterone-regulate spermatogenesis, as does signaling by G-protein-coupled hormone receptors. Finally, calcium signaling is essential for both sperm motility and fertilization. Altogether, this signaling symphony ensures the production of viable offspring, offering a chance of genetic immortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sally Kornbluth
- Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina 27710
| | - Rafael Fissore
- University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Amherst, Massachusetts 01003
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133
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Zamudio N, Barau J, Teissandier A, Walter M, Borsos M, Servant N, Bourc'his D. DNA methylation restrains transposons from adopting a chromatin signature permissive for meiotic recombination. Genes Dev 2015; 29:1256-70. [PMID: 26109049 PMCID: PMC4495397 DOI: 10.1101/gad.257840.114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 113] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Zamudio et al. demonstrate that DNA methylation restrains transposons from adopting chromatin characteristics amenable to meiotic recombination, which they propose prevents the occurrence of erratic chromosomal events. DNA methylation is essential for protecting the mammalian germline against transposons. When DNA methylation-based transposon control is defective, meiotic chromosome pairing is consistently impaired during spermatogenesis: How and why meiosis is vulnerable to transposon activity is unknown. Using two DNA methylation-deficient backgrounds, the Dnmt3L and Miwi2 mutant mice, we reveal that DNA methylation is largely dispensable for silencing transposons before meiosis onset. After this, it becomes crucial to back up to a developmentally programmed H3K9me2 loss. Massive retrotransposition does not occur following transposon derepression, but the meiotic chromatin landscape is profoundly affected. Indeed, H3K4me3 marks gained over transcriptionally active transposons correlate with formation of SPO11-dependent double-strand breaks and recruitment of the DMC1 repair enzyme in Dnmt3L−/− meiotic cells, whereas these features are normally exclusive to meiotic recombination hot spots. Here, we demonstrate that DNA methylation restrains transposons from adopting chromatin characteristics amenable to meiotic recombination, which we propose prevents the occurrence of erratic chromosomal events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natasha Zamudio
- UMR3215, CNRS, Paris 75005, France; U934, INSERM Institut Curie, Paris 75005, France
| | - Joan Barau
- UMR3215, CNRS, Paris 75005, France; U934, INSERM Institut Curie, Paris 75005, France
| | - Aurélie Teissandier
- UMR3215, CNRS, Paris 75005, France; U934, INSERM Institut Curie, Paris 75005, France; U900, INSERM, Paris 75005, France; Mines ParisTech, Institut Curie, Paris 75005, France
| | - Marius Walter
- UMR3215, CNRS, Paris 75005, France; U934, INSERM Institut Curie, Paris 75005, France
| | - Maté Borsos
- UMR3215, CNRS, Paris 75005, France; U934, INSERM Institut Curie, Paris 75005, France
| | - Nicolas Servant
- U900, INSERM, Paris 75005, France; Mines ParisTech, Institut Curie, Paris 75005, France
| | - Déborah Bourc'his
- UMR3215, CNRS, Paris 75005, France; U934, INSERM Institut Curie, Paris 75005, France
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134
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Testicular immunohistochemical and Ultrastructural changes associated with chronic cholestasis in rats: Effect of ursodeoxycholic acid. Life Sci 2015; 136:52-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2015.05.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2015] [Revised: 04/27/2015] [Accepted: 05/25/2015] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
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135
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Jiang XH, Bukhari I, Zheng W, Yin S, Wang Z, Cooke HJ, Shi QH. Blood-testis barrier and spermatogenesis: lessons from genetically-modified mice. Asian J Androl 2015; 16:572-80. [PMID: 24713828 PMCID: PMC4104086 DOI: 10.4103/1008-682x.125401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The blood-testis barrier (BTB) is found between adjacent Sertoli cells in the testis where it creates a unique microenvironment for the development and maturation of meiotic and postmeiotic germ cells in seminiferous tubes. It is a compound proteinous structure, composed of several types of cell junctions including tight junctions (TJs), adhesion junctions and gap junctions (GJs). Some of the junctional proteins function as structural proteins of BTB and some have regulatory roles. The deletion or functional silencing of genes encoding these proteins may disrupt the BTB, which may cause immunological or other damages to meiotic and postmeiotic cells and ultimately lead to spermatogenic arrest and infertility. In this review, we will summarize the findings on the BTB structure and function from genetically-modified mouse models and discuss the future perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Qing-Hua Shi
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China; Institute of Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, China,
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136
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Wu RC, Zeng Y, Pan IW, Wu MY. Androgen Receptor Coactivator ARID4B Is Required for the Function of Sertoli Cells in Spermatogenesis. Mol Endocrinol 2015; 29:1334-46. [PMID: 26258622 DOI: 10.1210/me.2015-1089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Defects in spermatogenesis, a process that produces spermatozoa inside seminiferous tubules of the testis, result in male infertility. Spermatogenic progression is highly dependent on a microenvironment provided by Sertoli cells, the only somatic cells and epithelium of seminiferous tubules. However, genes that regulate such an important activity of Sertoli cells are poorly understood. Here, we found that AT-rich interactive domain 4B (ARID4B), is essential for the function of Sertoli cells to regulate spermatogenesis. Specifically, we generated Sertoli cell-specific Arid4b knockout (Arid4bSCKO) mice, and showed that the Arid4bSCKO male mice were completely infertile with impaired testis development and significantly reduced testis size. Importantly, severe structural defects accompanied by loss of germ cells and Sertoli cell-only phenotype were found in many seminiferous tubules of the Arid4bSCKO testes. In addition, maturation of Sertoli cells was significantly delayed in the Arid4bSCKO mice, associated with delayed onset of spermatogenesis. Spermatogenic progression was also defective, showing an arrest at the round spermatid stage in the Arid4bSCKO testes. Interestingly, we showed that ARID4B functions as a "coactivator" of androgen receptor and is required for optimal transcriptional activation of reproductive homeobox 5, an androgen receptor target gene specifically expressed in Sertoli cells and critical for spermatogenesis. Together, our study identified ARID4B to be a key regulator of Sertoli cell function important for male germ cell development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ray-Chang Wu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine (R.-C.W., Y.Z., M.-Y.W.), The George Washington University, Washington, DC 20037; and Department of Neurosurgery (I-W.P.), Texas Children's Hospital and Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Yang Zeng
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine (R.-C.W., Y.Z., M.-Y.W.), The George Washington University, Washington, DC 20037; and Department of Neurosurgery (I-W.P.), Texas Children's Hospital and Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - I-Wen Pan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine (R.-C.W., Y.Z., M.-Y.W.), The George Washington University, Washington, DC 20037; and Department of Neurosurgery (I-W.P.), Texas Children's Hospital and Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Mei-Yi Wu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine (R.-C.W., Y.Z., M.-Y.W.), The George Washington University, Washington, DC 20037; and Department of Neurosurgery (I-W.P.), Texas Children's Hospital and Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030
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137
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Macrophages Contribute to the Spermatogonial Niche in the Adult Testis. Cell Rep 2015; 12:1107-19. [PMID: 26257171 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2015.07.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 188] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2014] [Revised: 05/02/2015] [Accepted: 07/08/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The testis produces sperm throughout the male reproductive lifespan by balancing self-renewal and differentiation of spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs). Part of the SSC niche is thought to lie outside the seminiferous tubules of the testis; however, specific interstitial components of the niche that regulate spermatogonial divisions and differentiation remain undefined. We identified distinct populations of testicular macrophages, one of which lies on the surface of seminiferous tubules, in close apposition to areas of tubules enriched for undifferentiated spermatogonia. These macrophages express spermatogonial proliferation- and differentiation-inducing factors, such as colony-stimulating factor 1 (CSF1) and enzymes involved in retinoic acid (RA) biosynthesis. We show that transient depletion of macrophages leads to a disruption in spermatogonial differentiation. These findings reveal an unexpected role for macrophages in the spermatogonial niche in the testis and raise the possibility that macrophages play previously unappreciated roles in stem/progenitor cell regulation in other tissues.
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138
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Abstract
Androgens such as testosterone are steroid hormones essential for normal male reproductive development and function. Mutations of androgen receptors (AR) are often found in patients with disorders of male reproductive development, and milder mutations may be responsible for some cases of male infertility. Androgens exert their action through AR and its signalling in the testis is essential for spermatogenesis. AR is not expressed in the developing germ cell lineage so is thought to exert its effects through testicular Sertoli and peri-tubular myoid (PTM) cells. AR signalling in spermatogenesis has been investigated in rodent models where testosterone levels are chemically supressed or models with transgenic disruption of AR. These models have pinpointed the steps of spermatogenesis that require AR signalling, specifically maintenance of spermatogonial numbers, blood-testis barrier integrity, completion of meiosis, adhesion of spermatids and spermiation, together these studies detail the essential nature of androgens in the promotion of male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura O'Hara
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK.
| | - Lee B Smith
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK.
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139
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Moretti E, Collodel G, Mazzi L, Russo I, Giurisato E. Ultrastructural study of spermatogenesis in KSR2 deficient mice. Transgenic Res 2015; 24:741-51. [DOI: 10.1007/s11248-015-9886-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2014] [Accepted: 06/03/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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140
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141
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Guo Y, Hai Y, Yao C, Chen Z, Hou J, Li Z, He Z. Long-term culture and significant expansion of human Sertoli cells whilst maintaining stable global phenotype and AKT and SMAD1/5 activation. Cell Commun Signal 2015; 13:20. [PMID: 25880873 PMCID: PMC4380114 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-015-0101-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2014] [Accepted: 03/16/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sertoli cells play key roles in regulating spermatogenesis and testis development by providing structural and nutritional supports. Recent studies demonstrate that Sertoli cells can be converted into functional neural stem cells. Adult Sertoli cells have previously been considered the terminally differentiated cells with a fixed and unmodifiable population after puberty. However, this concept has been challenged. Since the number of adult human Sertoli cells is limited, it is essential to culture these cells for a long period and expand them to obtain sufficient cells for their basic research and clinic applications. Nevertheless, the studies on human Sertoli cells are restricted, because it is difficult to get access to human testis tissues. RESULTS Here we isolated adult human Sertoli cells with a high purity and viability from obstructive azoospermia patients with normal spermatogenesis. Adult human Sertoli cells were cultured with DMEM/F12 and fetal bovine serum for 2 months, and they could be expanded with a 59,049-fold increase of cell numbers. Morphology, phenotypic characteristics, and the signaling pathways of adult human Sertoli cells from different passages were compared. Significantly, adult human Sertoli cells assumed similar morphological features, stable global gene expression profiles and numerous proteins, and activation of AKT and SMAD1/5 during long-period culture. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrates that adult human Sertoli cells can be cultured for a long period and expanded with remarkable increase of cell numbers whilst maintaining their primary morphology, phenotype and signaling pathways. This study could provide adequate human Sertoli cells for reproductive and regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji-Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 160 Pujian Road, Shanghai, 200127, China.
| | - Yanan Hai
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji-Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 160 Pujian Road, Shanghai, 200127, China.
| | - Chencheng Yao
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji-Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 160 Pujian Road, Shanghai, 200127, China.
| | - Zheng Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji-Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 160 Pujian Road, Shanghai, 200127, China.
| | - Jingmei Hou
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji-Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 160 Pujian Road, Shanghai, 200127, China.
| | - Zheng Li
- Department of Urology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Institute of Andrology, Shanghai Human Sperm Bank, 145 Shangdong Road, Shanghai, 200001, China.
| | - Zuping He
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji-Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 160 Pujian Road, Shanghai, 200127, China. .,Department of Urology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Institute of Andrology, Shanghai Human Sperm Bank, 145 Shangdong Road, Shanghai, 200001, China. .,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, 200127, China. .,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China.
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Walker WH, Easton E, Moreci RS, Toocheck C, Anamthathmakula P, Jeyasuria P. Restoration of spermatogenesis and male fertility using an androgen receptor transgene. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0120783. [PMID: 25803277 PMCID: PMC4372537 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0120783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2014] [Accepted: 01/27/2015] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Androgens signal through the androgen receptor (AR) to regulate male secondary sexual characteristics, reproductive tract development, prostate function, sperm production, bone and muscle mass as well as body hair growth among other functions. We developed a transgenic mouse model in which endogenous AR expression was replaced by a functionally modified AR transgene. A bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC) was constructed containing all AR exons and introns plus 40 kb each of 5' and 3' regulatory sequence. Insertion of an internal ribosome entry site and the EGFP gene 3’ to AR allowed co-expression of AR and EGFP. Pronuclear injection of the BAC resulted in six founder mice that displayed EGFP production in appropriate AR expressing tissues. The six founder mice were mated into a Sertoli cell specific AR knockout (SCARKO) background in which spermatogenesis is blocked at the meiosis stage of germ cell development. The AR-EGFP transgene was expressed in a cyclical manner similar to that of endogenous AR in Sertoli cells and fertility was restored as offspring were produced in the absence of Sertoli cell AR. Thus, the AR-EGFP transgene under the control of AR regulatory elements is capable of rescuing AR function in a cell selective, AR-null background. These initial studies provide proof of principle that a strategy employing the AR-EGFP transgene can be used to understand AR functions. Transgenic mice expressing selective modifications of the AR-EGFP transgene may provide crucial information needed to elicit the molecular mechanisms by which AR acts in the testis and other androgen responsive tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- William H. Walker
- Center for Research in Reproductive Physiology, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Magee Women’s Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Evan Easton
- Center for Research in Reproductive Physiology, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Magee Women’s Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Rebecca S. Moreci
- Center for Research in Reproductive Physiology, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Magee Women’s Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Corey Toocheck
- Center for Research in Reproductive Physiology, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Magee Women’s Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Prashanth Anamthathmakula
- Center for Research in Reproductive Physiology, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Magee Women’s Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Pancharatnam Jeyasuria
- Center for Research in Reproductive Physiology, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Magee Women’s Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
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143
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Zimmermann C, Stévant I, Borel C, Conne B, Pitetti JL, Calvel P, Kaessmann H, Jégou B, Chalmel F, Nef S. Research resource: the dynamic transcriptional profile of sertoli cells during the progression of spermatogenesis. Mol Endocrinol 2015; 29:627-42. [PMID: 25710594 DOI: 10.1210/me.2014-1356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Sertoli cells (SCs), the only somatic cells within seminiferous tubules, associate intimately with developing germ cells. They not only provide physical and nutritional support but also secrete factors essential to the complex developmental processes of germ cell proliferation and differentiation. The SC transcriptome must therefore adapt rapidly during the different stages of spermatogenesis. We report comprehensive genome-wide expression profiles of pure populations of SCs isolated at 5 distinct stages of the first wave of mouse spermatogenesis, using RNA sequencing technology. We were able to reconstruct about 13 901 high-confidence, nonredundant coding and noncoding transcripts, characterized by complex alternative splicing patterns with more than 45% comprising novel isoforms of known genes. Interestingly, roughly one-fifth (2939) of these genes exhibited a dynamic expression profile reflecting the evolving role of SCs during the progression of spermatogenesis, with stage-specific expression of genes involved in biological processes such as cell cycle regulation, metabolism and energy production, retinoic acid synthesis, and blood-testis barrier biogenesis. Finally, regulatory network analysis identified the transcription factors endothelial PAS domain-containing protein 1 (EPAS1/Hif2α), aryl hydrocarbon receptor nuclear translocator (ARNT/Hif1β), and signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 (STAT1) as potential master regulators driving the SC transcriptional program. Our results highlight the plastic transcriptional landscape of SCs during the progression of spermatogenesis and provide valuable resources to better understand SC function and spermatogenesis and its related disorders, such as male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Céline Zimmermann
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development (C.Z., I.S., C.B., B.C., J.-L.P., P.C., S.N.), University of Geneva Medical School, 1211 Geneva 4, Switzerland; Center for Integrative Genomics (H.K.), University of Lausanne, Génopode, CH-1015 Lausanne, Switzerland; and Inserm U1085-IRSET (B.J., F.C.), Université de Rennes 1, Campus de Beaulieu, F-35042 Rennes, France
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144
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Role of retinoic acid receptor (RAR) signaling in post-natal male germ cell differentiation. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-GENE REGULATORY MECHANISMS 2015; 1849:84-93. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagrm.2014.05.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2014] [Revised: 05/12/2014] [Accepted: 05/19/2014] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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145
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Abstract
In the mammalian testis, spermatogenesis is a highly coordinated process of germ cell development, which ends with the release of ‘mature’ spermatozoa. The fine regulation of spermatogenesis is strictly dependent on sex steroid hormones, which orchestrate the cellular and molecular events underlying normal development of germ cells. Sex steroids actions also rely on the control of germ cell survival, and the programmed cell death by apoptosis has been indicated as a critical process in regulating the size and quality of the germ line. Recently, oestrogens have emerged as important regulators of germ cell fate. However, the beneficial or detrimental effects of oestrogens in spermatogenesis are controversial, with independent reports arguing for their role as cell survival factors or as apoptosis-inducers. The dual behaviour of oestrogens, shifting from ‘angels to devils’ is supported by the clinical findings of increased oestrogens levels in serum and intratesticular milieu of idiopathic infertile men. This review aims to discuss the available information concerning the role of oestrogens in the control of germ cell death and summarises the signalling mechanisms driven oestrogen-induced apoptosis. The present data represent a valuable basis for the clinical management of hyperoestrogenism-related infertility and provide a rationale for the use of oestrogen-target therapies in male infertility.
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146
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La Sala G, Marazziti D, Di Pietro C, Golini E, Matteoni R, Tocchini-Valentini GP. Modulation of Dhh signaling and altered Sertoli cell function in mice lacking the GPR37-prosaposin receptor. FASEB J 2015; 29:2059-69. [PMID: 25609427 DOI: 10.1096/fj.14-269209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2014] [Accepted: 12/22/2014] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
The mammalian G-protein-coupled receptor 37 (GPR37) is expressed in brain, in adult testis, and during the early phase of gonad differentiation. Somatic Sertoli cells (SCs) are located within the seminiferous tubules where they support the germinal epithelium. An adequate number of SCs is required for the complete prepubertal differentiation of germ cells and adult fertility. This study shows that Gpr37 and its ligand prosaposin are both postnatally expressed by SCs, whose proliferation and maturation are affected in Gpr37-null mutant mice during postnatal testicular development. Mutant pups show a delayed timing in sperm cell development, with a partial arrest of spermatocytes at the meiotic pachytene (e.g., 1.5-fold increase in Gpr37(-/-) P21 pups) and their increased apoptosis (e.g., 1.8-fold and 3.5-fold increase in Gpr37(-/-) P21 and adult mice, respectively). Mutant adults have reduced testis weight (wild type, 299 ± 5 mg; knockout, 258 ± 16 mg; P < 0.05) and epididymal sperm count and motility (e.g., 1.5-fold and 1.45-fold decrease in Gpr37(-/-) mice, respectively). Lack of Gpr37 results in the reduction in androgen receptor levels during prepubertal testis development, alongside the altered expression of SC maturation markers. It also affects the prepubertal testis expression of desert hedgehog (Dhh) mitogenic cascade components (Dhh, 1.3-fold increase in Gpr37(-/-) P10 and P21 pups; Gli2, 1.4-fold and 1.6-fold increase in Gpr37(-/-) P10 and P21 pups, respectively) including patched homolog 1 (1.3-fold increase in Gpr37(-/-) P10 and P21 pups), which is found localized in prepubertal SCs and is associated with Gpr37 in cultured primary SC samples. These results indicate that Gpr37 is a specific modulator of murine testis Dhh mitogenic signaling and SC proliferation and maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gina La Sala
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Emma-Infrafrontier-Impc, "A. Buzzati-Traverso" Campus, Istituto di Biologia Cellulare e Neurobiologia, Monterotondo Scalo, Rome, Italy
| | - Daniela Marazziti
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Emma-Infrafrontier-Impc, "A. Buzzati-Traverso" Campus, Istituto di Biologia Cellulare e Neurobiologia, Monterotondo Scalo, Rome, Italy
| | - Chiara Di Pietro
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Emma-Infrafrontier-Impc, "A. Buzzati-Traverso" Campus, Istituto di Biologia Cellulare e Neurobiologia, Monterotondo Scalo, Rome, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Golini
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Emma-Infrafrontier-Impc, "A. Buzzati-Traverso" Campus, Istituto di Biologia Cellulare e Neurobiologia, Monterotondo Scalo, Rome, Italy
| | - Rafaele Matteoni
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Emma-Infrafrontier-Impc, "A. Buzzati-Traverso" Campus, Istituto di Biologia Cellulare e Neurobiologia, Monterotondo Scalo, Rome, Italy
| | - Glauco P Tocchini-Valentini
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Emma-Infrafrontier-Impc, "A. Buzzati-Traverso" Campus, Istituto di Biologia Cellulare e Neurobiologia, Monterotondo Scalo, Rome, Italy
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147
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Christopher S, Ejuoghanran OS, Festus O. Profertility effects of aqueous leaf extract of Telfairia occidentalis in adult male Wistar rats. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2015. [DOI: 10.4103/1596-2393.177024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
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148
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Chen SR, Liu YX. Regulation of spermatogonial stem cell self-renewal and spermatocyte meiosis by Sertoli cell signaling. Reproduction 2014; 149:R159-67. [PMID: 25504872 DOI: 10.1530/rep-14-0481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 188] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is a continuous and productive process supported by the self-renewal and differentiation of spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs), which arise from undifferentiated precursors known as gonocytes and are strictly controlled in a special 'niche' microenvironment in the seminiferous tubules. Sertoli cells, the only somatic cell type in the tubules, directly interact with SSCs to control their proliferation and differentiation through the secretion of specific factors. Spermatocyte meiosis is another key step of spermatogenesis, which is regulated by Sertoli cells on the luminal side of the blood-testis barrier through paracrine signaling. In this review, we mainly focus on the role of Sertoli cells in the regulation of SSC self-renewal and spermatocyte meiosis, with particular emphasis on paracrine and endocrine-mediated signaling pathways. Sertoli cell growth factors, such as glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) and fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2), as well as Sertoli cell transcription factors, such as ETS variant 5 (ERM; also known as ETV5), nociceptin, neuregulin 1 (NRG1), and androgen receptor (AR), have been identified as the most important upstream factors that regulate SSC self-renewal and spermatocyte meiosis. Other transcription factors and signaling pathways (GDNF-RET-GFRA1 signaling, FGF2-MAP2K1 signaling, CXCL12-CXCR4 signaling, CCL9-CCR1 signaling, FSH-nociceptin/OPRL1, retinoic acid/FSH-NRG/ERBB4, and AR/RB-ARID4A/ARID4B) are also addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Su-Ren Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive BiologyInstitute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Yi-Xun Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive BiologyInstitute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
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149
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Miyaso H, Nakamura N, Naito M, Hirai S, Matsuno Y, Itoh M, Mori C. Early postnatal exposure to a low dose of decabromodiphenyl ether affects expression of androgen and thyroid hormone receptor-alpha and its splicing variants in mouse Sertoli cells. PLoS One 2014; 9:e114487. [PMID: 25479311 PMCID: PMC4257688 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0114487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2014] [Accepted: 11/10/2014] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Decabromodiphenyl ether (decaBDE) adversely affects reproduction and development. Our previous study showed that postnatal exposure to a low dose of decaBDE (0.025 mg/kg body weight/day) by subcutaneous injection on postnatal days (PNDs) 1 through 5 leads to reductions in testicular size and number of Sertoli cells and sperm, while higher dose of decaBDE (2.5 mg/kg body weight/day) had no significant differences about these. In the present study, we examined the molecular mechanism of these effects on mouse testes following postnatal exposure to a low decaBDE dose. We hypothesized that postnatal exposure to decaBDE may alter levels of serum thyroid hormones (THs) and testosterone, or the level of TH receptor alpha (Thra) transcripts and its splicing variants and androgen receptor (Ar) in Sertoli cells, adversely affecting spermatogenesis. To test this hypothesis, we examined serum TH and testosterone levels and the levels of transcripts of the Ar, Thra and its splicing variants, and Thra splicing factors (Hnrnpa1, Srsf1, and Hnrnph1) with qPCR in isolated mouse Sertoli cells exposed postnatally to decaBDE (0.025, 0.25, and 2.5 mg/kg). Levels of serum testosterone and transcripts encoding Ar, Thra, and its variant, Thra1, declined significantly in Sertoli cells of mice exposed to 0.025 mg decaBDE/kg. No significant differences in serum TH level or Thra2, Hnrnph1, or Srsf1 transcript levels were observed between control and decaBDE-exposed mice. However, the Thra1:Thra2 and Hnrnpa1:Srsf1 ratios were altered in Sertoli cells of mice exposed to 0.025 mg decaBDE/kg but not in cells exposed to 0.25 or 2.5 mg decaBDE/kg. These results indicate that postnatal exposure to a low dose of decaBDE on PNDs 1 through 5 lowers the testosterone level and the levels of Ar and Thra transcripts in Sertoli cells, accompanied by an imbalance in the ratios of Thra splicing variants, resulting in smaller testicular size and impaired spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hidenobu Miyaso
- Center for Preventive Medical Sciences, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
- Department of Bioenvironmental Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Noriko Nakamura
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology and Toxicology, Marshall University, Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, Huntington, United States of America
| | - Munekazu Naito
- Department of Anatomy, Aichi Medical University, Aichi, Japan
| | - Shuichi Hirai
- Department of Anatomy, Tokyo Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoshiharu Matsuno
- Center for Preventive Medical Sciences, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
- Department of Bioenvironmental Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Masahiro Itoh
- Department of Anatomy, Tokyo Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Chisato Mori
- Center for Preventive Medical Sciences, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
- Department of Bioenvironmental Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
- * E-mail:
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150
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Walker WH. Testosterone signaling and the regulation of spermatogenesis. SPERMATOGENESIS 2014; 1:116-120. [PMID: 22319659 DOI: 10.4161/spmg.1.2.16956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 256] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2011] [Accepted: 05/31/2011] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Spermatogenesis and male fertility are dependent upon the presence of testosterone in the testis. In the absence of testosterone or the androgen receptor, spermatogenesis does not proceed beyond the meiosis stage. The major cellular target and translator of testosterone signals to developing germ cells is the Sertoli cell. In the Sertoli cell, testosterone signals can be translated directly to changes in gene expression (the classical pathway) or testosterone can activate kinases that may regulate processes required to maintain spermatogenesis (the non-classical pathway). Contributions of the classical and non-classical testosterone signaling pathways to the maintenance of spermatogenesis are discussed. Studies that may further elaborate the mechanisms by with the pathways support spermatogenesis are proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- William H Walker
- Center for Research in Reproductive Physiology; Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproduction Sciences; Magee Women's Research Institute; University of Pittsburgh; Pittsburgh, PA USA
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