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Activin A, a product of fetal Leydig cells, is a unique paracrine regulator of Sertoli cell proliferation and fetal testis cord expansion. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2010; 107:10526-31. [PMID: 20498064 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1000318107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Formation of tubular structures relies upon complex interactions between adjacent epithelium and mesenchyme. In the embryonic testes, dramatic compartmentalization leads to the formation of testis cords (epithelium) and the surrounding interstitium (mesenchyme). Sertoli cells, the epithelial cell type within testis cords, produce signaling molecules to orchestrate testis cord formation. The interstitial fetal Leydig cells, however, are thought only to masculinize the embryo and are not known to be involved in testis cord morphogenesis. Contrary to this notion, we have identified activin A, a member of the TGF-beta protein superfamily, as a product of the murine fetal Leydig cells that acts directly upon Sertoli cells to promote their proliferation during late embryogenesis. Genetic disruption of activin betaA, the gene encoding activin A, specifically in fetal Leydig cells resulted in a failure of fetal testis cord elongation and expansion due to decreased Sertoli cell proliferation. Conditional inactivation of Smad4, the central component of TGF-beta signaling, in Sertoli cells led to testis cord dysgenesis and proliferative defects similar to those of Leydig cell-specific activin betaA knockout testes. These results indicate that activin A is the major TGF-beta protein that acts directly on Sertoli cells. Testicular dysgenesis in activin betaA and Smad4 conditional knockout embryos persists into adulthood, leading to low sperm production and abnormal testicular histology. Our findings challenge the paradigm that fetal testis development is solely under the control of Sertoli cells, by uncovering an active and essential role of fetal Leydig cells during testis cord morphogenesis.
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202
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Edson MA, Nalam RL, Clementi C, Franco HL, Demayo FJ, Lyons KM, Pangas SA, Matzuk MM. Granulosa cell-expressed BMPR1A and BMPR1B have unique functions in regulating fertility but act redundantly to suppress ovarian tumor development. Mol Endocrinol 2010; 24:1251-66. [PMID: 20363875 DOI: 10.1210/me.2009-0461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) have diverse roles in development and reproduction. Although several BMPs are produced by oocytes, thecal cells, and granulosa cells of developing follicles, the in vivo functions of most of these ligands are unknown. BMP signals are transduced by multiple type I and type II TGFbeta family receptors, and of the type I receptors, BMP receptor 1A (BMPR1A) and BMP receptor 1B (BMPR1B) are known to be expressed in rodent granulosa cells. Female mice homozygous null for Bmpr1b are sterile due to compromised cumulus expansion, but the function of BMPR1A in the ovary is unknown. To further decipher a role for BMP signaling in mouse granulosa cells, we deleted Bmpr1a in the granulosa cells of the ovary and found Bmpr1a conditional knockout females to be subfertile with reduced spontaneous ovulation. To explore the redundant functions of BMP receptor signaling in the ovary, we generated Bmpr1a Bmpr1b double-mutant mice, which developed granulosa cell tumors that have evidence of increased TGFbeta and hedgehog signaling. Thus, similar to SMAD1 and SMAD5, which have redundant roles in suppressing granulosa cell tumor development in mice, two type I BMP receptors, BMPR1A and BMPR1B, function together to prevent ovarian tumorigenesis. These studies support a role for a functional BMP signaling axis as a tumor suppressor pathway in the ovary, with BMPR1A and BMPR1B acting downstream of BMP ligands and upstream of BMP receptor SMADs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark A Edson
- Department of Pathology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
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203
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Abstract
The classical view of ovarian follicle development is that it is regulated by the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis, in which gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) controls the release of the gonadotropic hormones follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), and that ovarian steroids exert both negative and positive regulatory effects on GnRH secretion. More recent studies in mice and humans indicate that many other intra-ovarian signaling cascades affect follicular development and gonadotropin action in a stage- and context-specific manner. As we discuss here, mutant mouse models and clinical evidence indicate that some of the most powerful intra-ovarian regulators of follicular development include the TGF-beta/SMAD, WNT/FZD/beta-catenin, and RAS/ERK1/2 signaling pathways and the FOXO/FOXL2 transcription factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- JoAnne S. Richards
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology and
Department of Pathology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Stephanie A. Pangas
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology and
Department of Pathology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
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204
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Dixit H, Rao L, Padmalatha V, Raseswari T, Kapu AK, Panda B, Murthy K, Tosh D, Nallari P, Deenadayal M, Gupta N, Chakrabarthy B, Singh L. Genes governing premature ovarian failure. Reprod Biomed Online 2010; 20:724-40. [PMID: 20382564 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2010.02.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2008] [Revised: 01/09/2009] [Accepted: 02/04/2010] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Premature ovarian failure (POF) is unexplained amenorrhoea (>6 months), increased FSH (>20 IU/l) and LH occurring before 40 years. Several genes are reported as having significance in POF, including genes governing regulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis, but their role in ovarian physiology is not known. Deletions or translocations in Xq arm have been found to be associated with POF, assuming presence of ovarian-related genes but ovary-related function of these genes is unclear. Several researchers have suggested specific loci on Xq critical region, POF1 and POF2 and genes DIA, FMR1 and FMR2. The understanding of ovarian physiology, its regulation and genes involved is important to explain the causes of POF. Some genes coordinate development of germ cell to primordial stage, e.g. GDF9, BMP15 and NGF, while others regulate development of further stages, such as FSH and LH. Mutation in these genes may lead to female infertility and are likely to be candidate genes for POF. Recently, association between blepharophimosis-ptosis-epicanthus inversus syndrome type 1 and POF has emerged as a possibility. Galactosaemia is also shown to be important in POF due to toxic effects of accumulated galactose or downstream products. Thus, understanding the role of several genes can be used for the appropriate genetic diagnosis, research and in the clinical practice of POF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hridesh Dixit
- Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology, Uppal Road, Hyderabad, India
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205
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Stenvers KL, Findlay JK. Inhibins: from reproductive hormones to tumor suppressors. Trends Endocrinol Metab 2010; 21:174-80. [PMID: 20005735 DOI: 10.1016/j.tem.2009.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2009] [Revised: 11/23/2009] [Accepted: 11/23/2009] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Inhibins are peptide hormones shown originally to be produced by the gonads to regulate the secretion of follicle stimulating hormone by pituitary gonadotropes. Although gonadotropes have been regarded as the canonical inhibin target cells, in recent years extrapituitary actions of inhibins have come into the spotlight. In particular, disruptions to the local actions of inhibins in peripheral tissues might underlie certain diseases, especially cancers of the reproductive tract. This review focuses on recent advances in the inhibin field, with a particular emphasis on the determinants of inhibin availability, mechanisms of inhibin action, and the physiological relevancy of local inhibin actions in the development and progression of reproductive cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaye L Stenvers
- Prince Henry's Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria 3168 Australia.
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206
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Elucidation of the causes of premature ovarian failure (POF) is difficult due to the heterogeneity of the condition. Inhibin is a potential candidate gene for POF based on its dual actions on FSH secretion by the pituitary and gametogenesis in the gonads. A missense mutation in the inhibin alpha subunit gene (INHA G769A) is associated with POF in several populations. However, there is phenotypic heterogeneity in INHA G769A mutation carriers. METHODS Relevant studies were identified by searching PubMed and mutational frequencies combined for meta-analysis. RESULTS Meta-analysis of published studies revealed a risk difference of 0.04 (-0.030 to 0.11). The occurrence of asymptomatic carriers in populations suggests incomplete penetrance and/or a multi-genetic cause of POF. We propose that a decline in inhibin bioactivity caused by the mutation could increase FSH levels; and in a susceptible individual, the heightened sensitivity to gonadotrophins causes POF. Impaired paracrine effects of inhibin could impact folliculogenesis due to reduced antagonism of activin, bone morphogenetic protein 15 and growth differentiation factor 9. Functional studies of this mutation indicate normal production of dimeric inhibin A and B and impaired bioactivity of inhibin B. CONCLUSIONS The identification of an autosomal mutation in the inhibin alpha subunit gene that is significantly linked to POF in certain ethnic populations highlights the role of inhibin in the regulation of ovarian biology and fertility. Although the reduction of inhibin B bioactivity by the INHA G769A mutation is clearly not the only cause, evidence suggests that this change may serve as a susceptibility factor, increasing the likelihood of POF.
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Affiliation(s)
- A L Chand
- Prince Henry's Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia.
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207
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Looyenga BD, Wiater E, Vale W, Hammer GD. Inhibin-A antagonizes TGFbeta2 signaling by down-regulating cell surface expression of the TGFbeta coreceptor betaglycan. Mol Endocrinol 2010; 24:608-20. [PMID: 20160125 DOI: 10.1210/me.2008-0374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Inhibin is an atypical member of the TGFbeta family of signaling ligands and is classically understood to function via competitive antagonism of activin ligand binding. Inhibin-null (Inha-/-) mice develop both gonadal and adrenocortical tumors, the latter of which depend upon gonadectomy for initiation. We have previously shown that gonadectomy initiates adrenal tumorigenesis in Inha-/- mice by elevating production of LH, which drives aberrant proliferation and differentiation of subcapsular adrenocortical progenitor cells. In this study, we demonstrate that LH signaling specifically up-regulates expression of TGFbeta2 in the subcapsular region of the adrenal cortex, which coincides with regions of aberrant Smad3 activation in Inha-/- adrenal glands. Consistent with a functional interaction between inhibin and TGFbeta2, we further demonstrate that recombinant inhibin-A antagonizes signaling by TGFbeta2 in cultured adrenocortical cells. The mechanism of this antagonism depends upon the mutual affinity of inhibin-A and TGFbeta2 for the signaling coreceptor betaglycan. Although inhibin-A cannot physically displace TGFbeta2 from its binding sites on betaglycan, binding of inhibin-A to the cell surface causes endocytic internalization of betaglycan, thereby reducing the number of available binding sites for TGFbeta2 on the cell surface. The mechanism by which inhibin-A induces betaglycan internalization is clathrin independent, making it distinct from the mechanism by which TGFbeta ligands themselves induce betaglycan internalization. These data indicate that inhibin can specifically antagonize TGFbeta2 signaling in cellular contexts where surface expression of betaglycan is limiting and provide a novel mechanism for activin-independent phenotypes in Inha-/- mice.
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208
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Jagarlamudi K, Reddy P, Adhikari D, Liu K. Genetically modified mouse models for premature ovarian failure (POF). Mol Cell Endocrinol 2010; 315:1-10. [PMID: 19643165 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2009.07.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2009] [Revised: 06/18/2009] [Accepted: 07/03/2009] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Premature ovarian failure (POF) is a complex disorder that affects approximately 1% of women. POF is characterized by the depletion of functional ovarian follicles before the age of 40 years, and clinically, patients may present with primary amenorrhea or secondary amenorrhea. Although some genes have been hypothesized to be candidates responsible for POF, the etiology of most of the cases is idiopathic, with the underlying causes still unidentified because of the heterogeneity of the disease. In this review, we consider some mutant mouse models that exhibit phenotypes which are comparable to human POF, and we suggest that the use of these mouse models may help us to gain a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying POF in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krishna Jagarlamudi
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Umeå University, SE-901 87 Umeå, Sweden.
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209
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Itman C, Whiley PAF, Zhou W, Meistrich M, Sahin Z, Loveland KL. Regulated production of SnoN2 is a feature of testicular differentiation. Microsc Res Tech 2010; 72:833-44. [PMID: 19526521 DOI: 10.1002/jemt.20739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Transforming growth factor betas (TGF beta s) and activins are key regulators of male fertility, affecting somatic and germ cell proliferation and differentiation in the developing and adult testis. Several studies have shown that these ligands influence discrete developmental stages, suggesting that temporal expression of modifying factors may determine their specific signaling outcomes. Upon binding to cell surface receptors, TGFbeta and activin signals are transduced intracellularly by the phosphorylation and nuclear accumulation of SMAD2 and SMAD3 transcription factors. The objective of this study was to determine the cellular localization of phosphorylated SMAD2/3 and the transcriptional repressor SnoN (Ski-like), a modifier of SMAD2/3 transcriptional activity, in mouse testes. Western blot established that only the smaller SnoN isoform, SnoN2, is produced in the testis. By immunohistochemistry, widespread phospho-SMAD2/3 distribution was observed in somatic and germ cells at all ages. In contrast, SnoN2 production was highly regulated, being detected only in gonocytes and interstitial cells at birth and in pachytene spermatocytes at puberty. In the adult, SnoN2 expression differed to that during the first wave, being ubiquitously expressed but exhibiting regulated nuclear localization. In another model of spermatogenic differentiation, the irradiated rat testis, widespread phospho-SMAD2/3 contrasted with restricted SnoN2 expression. SnoN2 was limited to interstitial cells, with reduced staining intensity observed associated with the timing of spermatogenesis resumption. We conclude that somatic and germ cells at all differentiation stages are actively transducing TGFbeta superfamily signals but that responses to these ligands may be selectively modulated by controlled production and nuclear localization of SnoN2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Itman
- Monash Institute of Medical Research, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria 3168, Australia
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210
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Mithraprabhu S, Mendis S, Meachem SJ, Tubino L, Matzuk MM, Brown CW, Loveland KL. Activin bioactivity affects germ cell differentiation in the postnatal mouse testis in vivo. Biol Reprod 2010; 82:980-90. [PMID: 20130270 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.109.079855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
The transforming growth factor beta superfamily ligand activin A controls juvenile testis growth by stimulating Sertoli cell proliferation. Testicular levels are highest in the first postnatal week, when Sertoli cells are proliferating and spermatogonial stem cells first form. Levels decrease sharply as Sertoli cell proliferation ceases and spermatogenic differentiation begins. We hypothesized that changing activin levels also affect germ cell maturation. We detected an acute and developmentally regulated impact of activin on Kit mRNA in cocultures of Sertoli cells and germ cells from Day 8, but not Day 4, mice. Both stereological and flow cytometry analyses identified an elevated spermatogonium:Sertoli cell ratio in Day 7 testes from Inhba(BK/BK) mice, which have decreased bioactive activin, and the germ cell markers Sycp3, Dazl, and Ccnd3 were significantly elevated in Inhba(BK/BK) mice. The flow cytometry measurements demonstrated that surface KIT protein is significantly higher in Day 7 Inhba(BK/BK) germ cells than in wild-type littermates. By Day 14, the germ cell:Sertoli cell ratio did not differ between genotypes, but the transition of type A spermatogonia into spermatocytes was altered in Inhba(BK/BK) testes. We conclude that regulated activin signaling not only controls Sertoli cell proliferation, as previously described, but also influences the in vivo progression of germ cell maturation in the juvenile testis at the onset of spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sridurga Mithraprabhu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Monash Institute of Medical Research, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
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211
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Abstract
Infertility adversely affects many couples worldwide. Conversely, the exponential increase in world population threatens our planet and its resources. Therefore, a greater understanding of the fundamental cellular and molecular events that control the size of the primordial follicle pool and follicular development is of utmost importance to develop improved in vitro fertilization as well as to design novel approaches to regulate fertility. In this review we attempt to highlight some new advances in basic research of the mammalian ovary that have occurred in recent years focusing primarily on mouse models that have contributed to our understanding of ovarian follicle formation, development, and ovulation. We hope that these new insights into ovarian function will trigger more research and translation to clinically relevant problems.
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212
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Yatsenko AN, Iwamori N, Iwamori T, Matzuk MM. The power of mouse genetics to study spermatogenesis. JOURNAL OF ANDROLOGY 2010; 31:34-44. [PMID: 19875488 PMCID: PMC2895970 DOI: 10.2164/jandrol.109.008227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Approximately 80 million people worldwide are infertile, and nearly half of all infertility cases are attributed to a male factor. Therefore, progress in reproductive genetics becomes crucial for future diagnosis and treatment of infertility. In recent years, enormous progress has been made in this field. More than 400 mutant mouse models with specific reproductive abnormalities have been produced, and numerous human association studies have been discovered. However, the translation of basic science findings to clinical practice remains protracted, with only modest progress in the application of novel findings to clinical genetic testing and cures. To date, the most significant findings in male infertility remain numeric and structural chromosomal abnormalities and Y-chromosome microdeletions in infertile men. Thus, we anticipate that future genetic investigations will focus on infertile men with a normal somatic karyotype but with various spermatozoal defects, like insufficient production of spermatozoa (oligozoospermia), inadequate motility (asthenozoospermia), abnormal morphology (teratozoospermia), or combinations of these defects. Ultimately, basic advances in mammalian nonhuman reproduction will translate to clinical advances in human reproduction and testing for infertile humans, thereby helping to improve diagnostics and health care for infertile patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- A N Yatsenko
- Department of Pathology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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213
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Bergauer F, Brüning A, Shabani N, Blankenstein T, Jückstock J, Dian D, Mylonas I. Inhibin/activin-betaE subunit in normal and malignant human cervical tissue and cervical cancer cell lines. J Mol Histol 2009; 40:353-9. [PMID: 20033758 DOI: 10.1007/s10735-009-9246-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2009] [Accepted: 12/07/2009] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Inhibins are dimeric glycoproteins, composed of an alpha-subunit and one of two possible beta-subunits (betaA or betaB), with substantial roles in human reproduction and in endocrine-responsive tumours. Recently a novel beta subunit named betaE was described, although it is still unclear if normal or cancerous cervical epithelial cells as well as cervical cancer cell lines can synthesise the novel inhibin-betaE subunit. About 4 normal cervical tissue samples together with 10 specimens of well-differentiated squamous cervical cancer and adenocarcinoma of the cervix were immunohistochemical analyzed. Additionally, two cervical carcinoma cell lines (HeLa and CaSki) were analyzed by immunofluorescence and RT-PCR for the expression of this novel subunit. We demonstrated for the first time an immunolabelling of the inhibin-betaE subunit in normal and malignant cervical tissue, as well as cervical cancer cells. Although the physiological role is still quite unclear in cervical tissue, inhibin-betaE might play important roles in carcinogenesis. Moreover, the synthesis of this subunit in cervical carcinoma cell lines of squamous and glandular epithelial origins also allows the use of these cell lines in elucidating its functions in cervical cancer pathogenesis. However, since the expression of the inhibin-betaE is minimal in HeLa cells as assessed by immunofluorescence and RT-PCR, the CaSki cell line might be a better model for further functional experiments regarding cervical cancer pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florian Bergauer
- 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Maistrasse 11, 80337 Munich, Germany
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214
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Middlebrook BS, Eldin K, Li X, Shivasankaran S, Pangas SA. Smad1-Smad5 ovarian conditional knockout mice develop a disease profile similar to the juvenile form of human granulosa cell tumors. Endocrinology 2009; 150:5208-17. [PMID: 19819941 PMCID: PMC2819741 DOI: 10.1210/en.2009-0644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Granulosa cell tumors (GCTs) of the ovary are rare sex cord stromal tumors. Although generally indolent, GCTs recur, and if not diagnosed and treated in early stages, survival rates are significantly shortened. Very little is known regarding GCT etiology. Because of the low incidence of cases and lack of standard diagnostics, mouse models for granulosa cell tumors are a valuable tool for studying GCTs and provide models for developing diagnostic and treatment strategies. We recently developed a novel mouse model of metastatic granulosa cell tumors by genetic deletion of the bone morphogenetic protein signaling transcription factors (SMADs) in granulosa cells of the ovary. Histological and serum hormone analyses reveal that this mouse model most closely resembles the juvenile form of GCT. We further analyzed samples of human juvenile GCT (JGCT) for expression of anti-Müllerian hormone and activation of two major signaling pathways: TGFbeta/SMAD2/3 and wingless-related mouse mammary tumor virus integration site (Wnt)/beta-catenin. The TGFbeta family is active in mouse Smad1-Smad5 double knockout tumors, and here we show that this pathway, but not the beta-catenin pathway, is activated in samples of human JGCT. These data suggest that the SMAD family, possibly through disruption of SMAD1/5 or activation of SMAD2/3 may contribute to the pathogenesis of JGCT in humans.
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215
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Shi FT, Cheung AP, Huang HF, Leung PCK. Effects of endogenous growth differentiation factor 9 on activin A-induced inhibin B production in human granulosa-lutein cells. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2009; 94:5108-16. [PMID: 19846738 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2009-1047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We recently reported on the effects of exogenous growth differentiation factor 9 (GDF9) in enhancing activin A-induced inhibin beta(B)-subunit mRNA and inhibin B levels in human granulosa-lutein (hGL) cells by modulating key components of the activin signaling pathway. We undertook the following study to characterize the role of endogenous GDF9 in this regard. METHODS We compared inhibin subunit (alpha, beta(A), and beta(B)) mRNA and inhibin B levels and activation of activin receptors (ACVRs) and Smad signaling pathway in hGL cells obtained from women undergoing in vitro fertilization and cultured with and without activin A treatment after GDF9-targeting small interfering RNA transfection. GDF9, inhibin subunits, ACVR2B/1B and Smad2/3/4/7 mRNA and/or protein levels, Smad phosphorylation, and inhibin B were assessed with RT-PCR, immunoblotting, and ELISA. Data were analyzed by ANOVA followed by Tukey's test. RESULTS GDF9 was detected as mRNA and protein in hGL cells and protein in follicular fluid from all 11 patients tested. Reduced endogenous GDF9 expression after targeting small interfering RNA transfection was associated with decreased ACVR2B/1B and Smad2/3/4 but increased inhibitory Smad7 mRNA and protein levels and, consequently, reduced activin A-induced beta(B)-subunit mRNA and inhibin B levels. CONCLUSIONS We report here for the first time autocrine roles for endogenous GDF9 in hGL cells in enhancing activin A-induced beta(B)-subunit mRNA and inhibin B levels via key components of the activin signaling pathway. However, the relative contributions of GDF9 in granulosa cells vs. oocyte as autocrine/paracrine regulators of beta(B)-subunit and inhibin B production in normal and abnormal human ovarian functions remain to be determined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng-Tao Shi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Child and Family Research Institute, University of British Columbia, 4490 Oak Street, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada V6H 3V5
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216
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Activin is a potent growth suppressor of epithelial ovarian cancer cells. Cancer Lett 2009; 285:157-65. [DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2009.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2009] [Revised: 05/06/2009] [Accepted: 05/10/2009] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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217
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Abstract
Cell and molecular biological studies of p53 functions over the past 30 years have been complemented in the past 20 years by studies that use genetically engineered mice. As expected, mice that have mutant Trp53 alleles usually develop cancers of various types more rapidly than their counterparts that have wild-type Trp53 genes. These mouse studies have been instrumental in providing important new insights into p53 tumour suppressor function. Such studies have been facilitated by the development of increasingly sophisticated genetic engineering approaches, which allow the more precise manipulation of p53 structure and function in a mammalian model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lawrence A Donehower
- Department of Molecular Virology and Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA.
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218
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Fan HY, Richards JS. Minireview: physiological and pathological actions of RAS in the ovary. Mol Endocrinol 2009; 24:286-98. [PMID: 19880654 DOI: 10.1210/me.2009-0251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The small G proteins of the RAS superfamily act as molecular switches in the transduction of cellular signals critical for a wide range of normal developmental events as well as pathological processes. However, the functions of Ras genes in ovarian cells have only started to be unveiled. RAS, most likely KRAS that is highly expressed in granulosa cells of growing follicles, appears crucial for mediating the gonadotropin-induced events associated with the unique physiological process of ovulation. By contrast, conditional expression of a constitutively active Kras(G12D) mutant in granulosa cells results in ovulation defects due to the complete disruption of normal follicular growth, cessation of granulosa cell proliferation, and blockage of granulosa cell apoptosis and differentiation. When the tumor suppressor Pten is disrupted conditionally in the Kras(G12D)-expressing granulosa cells, granulosa cell tumors fail to develop. However, ovarian surface epithelial cells expressing the same Pten;Kras(G12D) mutations rapidly become ovarian surface epithelial serous cystadenocarcinomas. In this minireview, we summarize some of the physiological as well as pathological functions of RAS in the rodent ovary, discuss the implications of the Kras(G12D) mutant mouse models for understanding human diseases such as premature ovarian failure and ovarian cancers, and highlight new questions raised by the results of recent studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heng-Yu Fan
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, Texas 77030.
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219
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Nalam RL, Andreu-Vieyra C, Braun RE, Akiyama H, Matzuk MM. Retinoblastoma protein plays multiple essential roles in the terminal differentiation of Sertoli cells. Mol Endocrinol 2009; 23:1900-13. [PMID: 19819985 DOI: 10.1210/me.2009-0184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinoblastoma protein (RB) plays crucial roles in cell cycle control and cellular differentiation. Specifically, RB impairs the G(1) to S phase transition by acting as a repressor of the E2F family of transcriptional activators while also contributing towards terminal differentiation by modulating the activity of tissue-specific transcription factors. To examine the role of RB in Sertoli cells, the androgen-dependent somatic support cell of the testis, we created a Sertoli cell-specific conditional knockout of Rb. Initially, loss of RB has no gross effect on Sertoli cell function because the mice are fertile with normal testis weights at 6 wk of age. However, by 10-14 wk of age, mutant mice demonstrate severe Sertoli cell dysfunction and infertility. We show that mutant mature Sertoli cells continue cycling with defective regulation of multiple E2F1- and androgen-regulated genes and concurrent activation of apoptotic and p53-regulated genes. The most striking defects in mature Sertoli cell function are increased permeability of the blood-testis barrier, impaired tissue remodeling, and defective germ cell-Sertoli cell interactions. Our results demonstrate that RB is essential for proper terminal differentiation of Sertoli cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roopa L Nalam
- Department of Pathology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
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220
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Abstract
Two major functions of the mammalian ovary are the production of germ cells (oocytes), which allow continuation of the species, and the generation of bioactive molecules, primarily steroids (mainly estrogens and progestins) and peptide growth factors, which are critical for ovarian function, regulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis, and development of secondary sex characteristics. The female germline is created during embryogenesis when the precursors of primordial germ cells differentiate from somatic lineages of the embryo and take a unique route to reach the urogenital ridge. This undifferentiated gonad will differentiate along a female pathway, and the newly formed oocytes will proliferate and subsequently enter meiosis. At this point, the oocyte has two alternative fates: die, a common destiny of millions of oocytes, or be fertilized, a fate of at most approximately 100 oocytes, depending on the species. At every step from germline development and ovary formation to oogenesis and ovarian development and differentiation, there are coordinated interactions of hundreds of proteins and small RNAs. These studies have helped reproductive biologists to understand not only the normal functioning of the ovary but also the pathophysiology and genetics of diseases such as infertility and ovarian cancer. Over the last two decades, parallel progress has been made in the assisted reproductive technology clinic including better hormonal preparations, prenatal genetic testing, and optimal oocyte and embryo analysis and cryopreservation. Clearly, we have learned much about the mammalian ovary and manipulating its most important cargo, the oocyte, since the birth of Louise Brown over 30 yr ago.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark A Edson
- Department of Pathology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
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221
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Itman C, Small C, Griswold M, Nagaraja AK, Matzuk MM, Brown CW, Jans DA, Loveland KL. Developmentally regulated SMAD2 and SMAD3 utilization directs activin signaling outcomes. Dev Dyn 2009; 238:1688-700. [PMID: 19517569 DOI: 10.1002/dvdy.21995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Activin is required for testis development. Activin signals via phosphorylation and nuclear accumulation of SMAD2 and SMAD3. We present novel findings of developmentally regulated activin signaling leading to specific transcriptional outcomes in testicular Sertoli cells. In immature, proliferating, Sertoli cells, activin A induces nuclear accumulation of SMAD3, but not SMAD2, although both proteins become phosphorylated. In postmitotic differentiating cells, both SMAD proteins accumulate in the nucleus. Furthermore, immature Sertoli cells are sensitive to activin dosage; higher concentrations induce maximal SMAD3 nuclear accumulation and a small increase in nuclear SMAD2. Microarray analysis identified distinct transcriptional outcomes correlating with differential SMAD utilization and new activin target genes, including Gja1 and Serpina5, which are essential for Sertoli cell development and male fertility. In transgenic mice with altered activin bioactivity that display fertility phenotypes, Gja1 and Serpina5 are significantly altered. Thus, differential SMAD utilization in response to activin features during Sertoli cell maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Itman
- Department of Biochemistry &Molecular Biology, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
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222
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Fan HY, Liu Z, Paquet M, Wang J, Lydon JP, DeMayo FJ, Richards JS. Cell type-specific targeted mutations of Kras and Pten document proliferation arrest in granulosa cells versus oncogenic insult to ovarian surface epithelial cells. Cancer Res 2009; 69:6463-72. [PMID: 19679546 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-08-3363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
The small G-protein KRAS is crucial for mediating gonadotropin-induced events associated with ovulation. However, constitutive expression of KrasG12D in granulosa cells disrupted normal follicle development leading to the persistence of abnormal follicle-like structures containing nonmitotic cells. To determine what factors mediate this potent effect of KrasG12D, gene profiling analyses were done. We also analyzed KrasG12D;Cyp19-Cre and KrasG12;Pgr-Cre mutant mouse models that express Cre prior to or after the initiation of granulosa cell differentiation, respectively. KrasG12D induced cell cycle arrest in granulosa cells of the KrasG12D;Cyp19-Cre mice but not in the KrasG12D;Pgr-Cre mice, documenting the cell context-specific effect of KrasG12D. Expression of KrasG12D silenced the Kras gene, reduced cell cycle activator genes, and impaired the expression of granulosa cell and oocyte-specific genes. Conversely, levels of PTEN and phosphorylated p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) increased markedly in the mutant granulosa cells. Because disrupting Pten in granulosa cells leads to increased proliferation and survival, Pten was disrupted in the KrasG12D mutant mice. The Pten/Kras mutant mice were infertile but lacked granulosa cell tumors. By contrast, the Ptenfl/fl;KrasG12D;Amhr2-Cre mice developed aggressive ovarian surface epithelial cell tumors that did not occur in the Ptenfl/fl;KrasG12D;Cyp19-Cre or Ptenfl/fl;KrasG12D;Pgr-Cre mouse strains. These data document unequivocally that Amhr2-Cre is expressed in and mediates allelic recombination of oncogenic genes in ovarian surface epithelial cells. That KrasG12D/Pten mutant granulosa cells do not transform but rather undergo cell cycle arrest indicates that they resist the oncogenic insults of Kras/Pten by robust self-protecting mechanisms that silence the Kras gene and elevate PTEN and phosphorylated p38 MAPK.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heng-Yu Fan
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
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223
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Expression of inhibin α by stromal cells of retinal angiomas excised from a patient with von Hippel-Lindau disease. Jpn J Ophthalmol 2009; 53:501-5. [DOI: 10.1007/s10384-009-0699-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2008] [Accepted: 03/18/2009] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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224
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Ma L, Buchold GM, Greenbaum MP, Roy A, Burns KH, Zhu H, Han DY, Harris RA, Coarfa C, Gunaratne PH, Yan W, Matzuk MM. GASZ is essential for male meiosis and suppression of retrotransposon expression in the male germline. PLoS Genet 2009; 5:e1000635. [PMID: 19730684 PMCID: PMC2727916 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1000635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 135] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2009] [Accepted: 08/06/2009] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Nuage are amorphous ultrastructural granules in the cytoplasm of male germ cells as divergent as Drosophila, Xenopus, and Homo sapiens. Most nuage are cytoplasmic ribonucleoprotein structures implicated in diverse RNA metabolism including the regulation of PIWI-interacting RNA (piRNA) synthesis by the PIWI family (i.e., MILI, MIWI2, and MIWI). MILI is prominent in embryonic and early post-natal germ cells in nuage also called germinal granules that are often associated with mitochondria and called intermitochondrial cement. We find that GASZ (Germ cell protein with Ankyrin repeats, Sterile alpha motif, and leucine Zipper) co-localizes with MILI in intermitochondrial cement. Knockout of Gasz in mice results in a dramatic downregulation of MILI, and phenocopies the zygotene-pachytene spermatocyte block and male sterility defect observed in MILI null mice. In Gasz null testes, we observe increased hypomethylation and expression of retrotransposons similar to MILI null testes. We also find global shifts in the small RNAome, including down-regulation of repeat-associated, known, and novel piRNAs. These studies provide the first evidence for an essential structural role for GASZ in male fertility and epigenetic and post-transcriptional silencing of retrotransposons by stabilizing MILI in nuage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lang Ma
- Department of Pathology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Gregory M. Buchold
- Department of Pathology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Michael P. Greenbaum
- Department of Pathology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Angshumoy Roy
- Department of Pathology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Kathleen H. Burns
- Department of Pathology, The Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Huifeng Zhu
- Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Houston, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Derek Y. Han
- Department of Pathology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - R. Alan Harris
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
- Human Genome Sequencing Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Cristian Coarfa
- Human Genome Sequencing Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Preethi H. Gunaratne
- Department of Pathology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
- Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Houston, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Wei Yan
- Department of Pathology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, University of Nevada School of Medicine, Reno, Nevada, United States of America
| | - Martin M. Matzuk
- Department of Pathology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
- Department of Pathology, The Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
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225
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Rahman NA, Rao C. Recent progress in luteinizing hormone/human chorionic gonadotrophin hormone research. Mol Hum Reprod 2009; 15:703-11. [DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gap067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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226
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Roy A, Lin YN, Agno JE, DeMayo FJ, Matzuk MM. Tektin 3 is required for progressive sperm motility in mice. Mol Reprod Dev 2009; 76:453-9. [PMID: 18951373 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.20957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Tektins are evolutionarily conserved flagellar (and ciliary) filamentous proteins present in the axoneme and peri-axonemal structures in diverse metazoan species. We have previously shown that tektin 3 (TEKT3) and tektin 4 (TEKT4) are male germ cell-enriched proteins, and that TEKT4 is essential for coordinated and progressive sperm motility in mice. Here we report that male mice null for TEKT3 produce sperm with reduced motility (47.2% motility) and forward progression, and increased flagellar structural bending defects. Male TEKT3-null mice however maintain normal fertility in two different genetic backgrounds tested, in contrast to TEKT4-null mice. Furthermore, male mice null for both TEKT3 and TEKT4 show subfertility on a mixed B6;129 genetic background, significantly different from either single knockouts, suggesting partial nonredundant roles for these two proteins in sperm physiology. Our results suggest that tektins are potential candidate genes for nonsyndromic asthenozoospermia in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angshumoy Roy
- Department of Pathology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
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227
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Myers M, Middlebrook BS, Matzuk MM, Pangas SA. Loss of inhibin alpha uncouples oocyte-granulosa cell dynamics and disrupts postnatal folliculogenesis. Dev Biol 2009; 334:458-67. [PMID: 19666016 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2009.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2009] [Revised: 07/21/2009] [Accepted: 08/03/2009] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Targeted disruption of the inhibin alpha gene (Inha(-)(/)(-)) in mice results in an ovarian phenotype of granulosa cell tumors that renders the animals infertile. Little is known about the reproductive defects prior to tumor development. Here, we report novel data on early follicle dynamics in Inha(-)(/)(-) mice, which demonstrate that inhibin alpha has important consequences upon follicle development. Morphological changes in both germ and somatic cells were evident in postnatal day 12 ovaries, with Inha(-/-) mice exhibiting numerous multilayered follicles that were far more advanced than those observed in age-matched controls. These changes were accompanied by alterations in follicle dynamics such that Inha(-/-) ovaries had fewer follicles in the resting pool and more committed in the growth phase. Absence of inhibin alpha resulted in advanced follicular maturation as marked by premature loss of anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) in secondary follicles. Additionally, gene expression analysis revealed changes in factors known to be vital for oocyte and follicle development. Together, these data provide key evidence to suggest that regulation of the inhibin/activin system is essential for early folliculogenesis in the prepubertal mouse ovary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Myers
- Department of Pathology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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228
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Dias VL, Rajpert-De Meyts E, McLachlan R, Loveland KL. Analysis of activin/TGFB-signaling modulators within the normal and dysfunctional adult human testis reveals evidence of altered signaling capacity in a subset of seminomas. Reproduction 2009; 138:801-11. [PMID: 19661148 DOI: 10.1530/rep-09-0206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Activin is a pleiotropic growth factor belonging to the transforming growth factor-beta (TGFB) superfamily of signaling molecules. Regulated activin signaling is known to influence several steps in rodent male gamete differentiation. TGFB ligand isoforms, TGFB1-B3, also influence germ cell survival in the rodent testis at the onset of spermatogenesis and around the time of puberty. Given the importance of regulated activin and TGFB signaling in testis development and function, we sought to investigate the cellular production sites of activin/TGFB-signaling modulators in normal and dysfunctional adult human testes samples. Signaling transducers phosphorylated SMAD2/3, and signaling modulators SMAD6, MAN-1, inhibin alpha (INHA), and beta-glycan were detected in Bouins fixed, paraffin-embedded adult human testis sections using immunohistochemistry. Additional samples examined were from testicular cancer patients and from normal men subjected to gonadotropin suppression with androgen-based contraceptives. Our findings identify distinct differences between normal and gonadotropin-deprived human testis in the expression and cellular localization of activin/TGFB-signaling modulators. The presence of a nuclear phosphorylated SMAD2/3 signal in all analyzed seminoma specimens indicated active activin/TGFB signaling. Moreover, a subset of seminoma specimens exhibited selective enhanced expression of beta-glycan (4 out of 28 seminoma tumors), INHA (6 out of 28), and MAN-1 (6 out of 28), highlighting potential functional differences between individual tumors in their capacity to regulate activin/TGFB signaling. Within the heterogenous nonseminomas, expression of signaling modulators was variable and reflected the degree of somatic differentiation. Thus, synthesis of activin and TGFB-signaling modulators may be affected by spermatogenic disruption and altered hormone levels in the testis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinali L Dias
- Monash Institute of Medical Research, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
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229
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Vardhana PA, Julius MA, Pollak SV, Lustbader EG, Trousdale RK, Lustbader JW. A unique human chorionic gonadotropin antagonist suppresses ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome in rats. Endocrinology 2009; 150:3807-14. [PMID: 19443574 PMCID: PMC2717881 DOI: 10.1210/en.2009-0107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2009] [Accepted: 05/01/2009] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) is a complication of in vitro fertilization associated with physiological changes after hCG administration to induce final oocyte maturation. It presents as widespread increases in vascular permeability and, in rare cases, results in cycle cancellation, multi-organ dysfunction, and pregnancy termination. These physiological changes are due primarily to activation of the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) system in response to exogenous human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). An hCG antagonist (hCG-Ant) could attenuate these effects by competitively binding to the LH/CG receptor, thereby blocking LH activity in vivo. We expressed a form of hCG that lacks three of its four N-linked glycosylation sites and tested its efficacy as an antagonist. The hCG-Ant binds the LH receptor with an affinity similar to native hCG and inhibits cAMP response in vitro. In a rat model for ovarian stimulation, hCG-Ant dramatically reduces ovulation and steroid hormone production. In a well-established rat OHSS model, vascular permeability and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression are dramatically reduced after hCG-Ant treatment. Finally, hCG-Ant does not appear to alter blastocyst development when given after hCG in mice. These studies demonstrate that removing specific glycosylation sites on native hCG can produce an hCG-Ant that is capable of binding without activating the LH receptor and blocking the actions of hCG. Thus hCG-Ant will be investigated as a potential therapy for OHSS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pratibhasri A Vardhana
- Columbia University Medical Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, New York, New York 10032, USA
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230
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Kumar TR. FSHbeta knockout mouse model: a decade ago and into the future. Endocrine 2009; 36:1-5. [PMID: 19387872 PMCID: PMC4074305 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-009-9199-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2009] [Revised: 02/24/2009] [Accepted: 04/09/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
In 1997, more than 10 years ago now, we first reported the phenotypes of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) beta null mice. Since then, these mice have been useful for various physiological and genetic studies in reproductive biology. More recently, extra-gonadal functions of FSH have been discovered in bone. These studies opened up exciting avenues of new research on osteoporosis in postmenopausal women. Several genomics and proteomics tools and novel strategies to spatio-temporally restricting gene expression in vivo are available now. It is hoped that with the aid of these and other emerging technologies, an integrated network of FSH signaling pathways in various tissues would emerge in the near future. Undoubtedly, the coming 10 years should be more exciting to explore this "fertile" area of reproductive physiology research.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Rajendra Kumar
- Department of Molecular, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA.
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231
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Feng Y, Shi Z, Fang X, Xu M, Dai J. Perfluorononanoic acid induces apoptosis involving the Fas death receptor signaling pathway in rat testis. Toxicol Lett 2009; 190:224-30. [PMID: 19646514 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2009.07.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2009] [Revised: 07/22/2009] [Accepted: 07/23/2009] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA, C9), a synthetic perfluorinated chemical containing nine carbons, accumulates and is biomagnified through food webs. This compound has been detected in the serum of humans and wildlife and has the potential for reproductive interference. Few studies, however, have reported the effects of PFNA exposure on male reproduction. To determine this, male rats were orally dosed for 1, 3 and 5mg/kgday PFNA or with vehicle for 14 days. In the present study, serum testosterone levels were decreased, while estradiol levels were increased dramatically in rats receiving 5mg PFNA/kgday. Spermatogenic cells from rats that received 5mg PFNA/kgday exhibited apoptotic features including crescent chromatin condensation and chromatin margination. Flow cytometric analysis and TUNEL assays revealed a dose-dependent increase of apoptotic cell numbers. In addition, expression of Fas and Bax mRNA levels were upregulated significantly, and Bcl-2 mRNA levels were downregulated markedly in the 3 and 5mg/kgday groups. A dose-dependent increase in levels of active caspase-8 and no significant changes of active caspase-9 were observed. Our results indicate that PFNA exposure can lead to cell apoptosis in rat testis, and this apoptosis was probably associated with the Fas death receptor-dependent apoptotic pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yixing Feng
- Key Laboratory of Animal Ecology and Conservation Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
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232
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Bernabeu C, Lopez-Novoa JM, Quintanilla M. The emerging role of TGF-beta superfamily coreceptors in cancer. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2009; 1792:954-73. [PMID: 19607914 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2009.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 195] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2009] [Revised: 07/02/2009] [Accepted: 07/06/2009] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The transforming growth factor beta (TGF-beta) signaling pathway plays a key role in different physiological processes such as development, cellular proliferation, extracellular matrix synthesis, angiogenesis or immune responses and its deregulation may result in tumor development. The TGF-beta coreceptors endoglin and betaglycan are emerging as modulators of the TGF-beta response with important roles in cancer. Endoglin is highly expressed in the tumor-associated vascular endothelium with prognostic significance in selected neoplasias and with potential to be a prime vascular target for antiangiogenic cancer therapy. On the other hand, the expression of endoglin and betaglycan in tumor cells themselves appears to play an important role in the progression of cancer, influencing cell proliferation, motility, invasiveness and tumorigenicity. In addition, experiments in vitro and in vivo in which endoglin or betaglycan expression is modulated have provided evidence that they act as tumor suppressors. The purpose of this review was to highlight the potential of membrane and soluble forms of the endoglin and betaglycan proteins as molecular targets in cancer diagnosis and therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmelo Bernabeu
- Centro de Investigaciones Biologicas, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Cientificas (CSIC), and CIBER de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), 28040 Madrid, Spain.
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233
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Makovitzky J, Radtke A, Shabani N, Friese K, Gerber B, Mylonas I. Invasive hydatidiform mole: immunohistochemical labelling of inhibin/activin subunits, Ki67, p53 and glycodelin A in a rare case. Acta Histochem 2009; 111:360-5. [PMID: 19195690 DOI: 10.1016/j.acthis.2008.11.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Invasive trophoblastic mole is an extremely rare condition. Its early recognition is essential since it can transform into an invasive type of tumour. Immunohistochemistry was performed with monoclonal antibodies against inhibin-alpha, -betaA and -betaB, Ki67, p53 and glycodelin A in a rare case of accidentally diagnosed invasive trophoblastic mole. There was labelling of the inhibin/activin subunits, Ki67 and p53, while glycodelin A showed minimal immunopositivity. Therefore, since the pathological diagnosis of an invasive mole is difficult, the immunohistochemical detection of inhibin/activin subunits, Ki67, p53 and glycodelin A might be additional useful tumour markers.
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234
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Itman C, Miyamoto Y, Young J, Jans D, Loveland K. Nucleocytoplasmic transport as a driver of mammalian gametogenesis. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2009; 20:607-19. [DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2009.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2009] [Revised: 04/29/2009] [Accepted: 05/04/2009] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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235
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Chang H, Guillou F, Taketo MM, Behringer RR. Overactive beta-catenin signaling causes testicular sertoli cell tumor development in the mouse. Biol Reprod 2009; 81:842-9. [PMID: 19553598 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.109.077446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Overactive WNT/beta-catenin signaling has been found in many forms of cancer in human patients. Mouse models with mutations in different components of the WNT/beta-catenin signaling pathway have been generated to mimic tumorigenesis in humans. Mice with mutations that result in overactive WNT/beta-catenin signaling developed tumors in some tissues, such as digestive tract, skin, and ovary, but they failed to develop tumors in other tissues, such as mammary gland, liver, kidney, and primordial germ cells. To investigate whether overactive beta-catenin signaling is capable of inducing Sertoli cell tumorigenesis in testes, we generated Ctnnb1(tm1Mmt/+);Tg(AMH-cre)1Flor male mice that express a constitutively active form of beta-catenin specifically in Sertoli cells. No tumors were observed at 4 mo of age, but 70% of the mutant males developed Sertoli cell tumors at 8 mo of age. At 1 yr of age, more than 90% of the mutant males developed tumors. No instances of extratesticular spread of the tumors were found in the mutant mice. These studies show a causal link between overactive WNT/beta-catenin signaling and Sertoli cell tumor development and provide a novel mouse model for the study of Sertoli cell tumor biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Chang
- Program in Genes and Development, The University of Texas Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
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236
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Godmann M, Gashaw I, Katz JP, Nagy A, Kaestner KH, Behr R. Krüppel-like factor 4, a "pluripotency transcription factor" highly expressed in male postmeiotic germ cells, is dispensable for spermatogenesis in the mouse. Mech Dev 2009; 126:650-64. [PMID: 19539755 DOI: 10.1016/j.mod.2009.06.1081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2008] [Revised: 06/10/2009] [Accepted: 06/11/2009] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Krüppel-like factor 4 (Klf4, GKLF) was originally characterized as a zinc finger transcription factor essential for terminal differentiation and cell lineage allocation of several cell types in the mouse. Mice lacking Klf4 die postnatally within hours due to impaired skin barrier function and subsequent dehydration. Recently, KLF4 was also used in cooperation with other transcription factors to reprogram differentiated cells to pluripotent embryonic stem cell-like cells. Moreover, involvement in oncogenesis was also ascribed to KLF4, which is aberrantly expressed in some types of tumors such as breast, gastric and colon cancer. We previously have shown that Klf4 is strongly expressed in postmeiotic germ cells of mouse and human testes suggesting a role for Klf4 also during spermiogenesis. In order to analyze its function we deleted Klf4 in germ cells using the Cre-loxP system. Homologous recombination of the Klf4 locus has been confirmed by genomic southern blotting and the absence of the protein in germ cells was demonstrated by Western blotting and immunofluorescence. Despite its important roles in several significant biological settings, deletion of Klf4 in germ cells did not impair spermiogenesis. Histologically, the mutant testes appeared normal and the mice were fertile. In order to identify genes that were regulated by KLF4 in male germ cells we performed microarray analyses using a whole genome array. We identified many genes exhibiting changed expression in mutants even including the telomerase reverse transcriptase mRNA, which is a stem cell marker. However, in summary, the lack of KLF4 alone does not prevent complete spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maren Godmann
- Institute of Anatomy, Developmental Biology, Hufelandstrasse 55, University of Duisburg-Essen Medical School, 45122 Essen, Germany
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Boelens MC, van den Berg A, Fehrmann RSN, Geerlings M, de Jong WK, te Meerman GJ, Sietsma H, Timens W, Postma DS, Groen HJM. Current smoking-specific gene expression signature in normal bronchial epithelium is enhanced in squamous cell lung cancer. J Pathol 2009; 218:182-91. [DOI: 10.1002/path.2520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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Sugiura K, Su YQ, Eppig JJ. Targeted suppression of Has2 mRNA in mouse cumulus cell-oocyte complexes by adenovirus-mediated short-hairpin RNA expression. Mol Reprod Dev 2009; 76:537-47. [PMID: 18951380 PMCID: PMC2669700 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.20971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
RNA interference (RNAi) is an effective tool for studying gene function in oocytes, but no studies have targeted somatic cells of primary cultured cumulus cell-oocyte complexes (COCs). This is probably due to difficulty in introducing RNAi-inducing molecules, such as a short-hairpin RNA (shRNA) gene, into COCs by commonly used transfection reagents. We therefore tested whether a developmental process of intact COCs could be suppressed by adenovirus-mediated shRNA expression. Has2, encoding hyaluronan synthase 2, was selected as the target transcript, because the process of cumulus expansion depends upon expression of Has2 mRNA and this process is easily evaluated in vitro. Intact COCs were infected with replication-incompetent adenoviruses containing an expression sequence of shRNA targeting either Has2 (Has2 shRNA) or a control transcript not expressed in cumulus cells, and the effects on epidermal growth factor (EGF)-stimulated cumulus expansion were determined. Has2 shRNA expression suppressed Has2 mRNA levels in COCs by more than 70%, without affecting expression levels of Ptgs2, Ptx3, Tnfaip6 mRNAs, which are also required for cumulus expansion, or other transcripts not related to expansion. Interestingly, levels of Areg and Ereg mRNAs were decreased in COCs expressing Has2 shRNA when compared with those in controls, while Btc mRNA levels remained unaffected. Furthermore, the degree of cumulus expansion by Has2 shRNA-expressing COCs was significantly less than that of controls. Thus adenovirus-mediated introduction of shRNA produces specific gene silencing and a phenotype in intact COCs, providing proof of principle that this method will be a helpful tool for understanding mechanisms of COC development.
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239
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Activin receptor signaling regulates prostatic epithelial cell adhesion and viability. Neoplasia 2009; 11:365-76. [PMID: 19308291 DOI: 10.1593/neo.81544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2008] [Revised: 01/21/2009] [Accepted: 01/26/2009] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Mutational changes coupled with endocrine, paracrine, and/or autocrine signals regulate cell division during carcinogenesis. The hormone signals remain undefined, although the absolute requirement in vitro for fetal serum indicates the necessity for a fetal serum factor(s) in cell proliferation. Using prostatic cancer cell (PCC) lines as a model of cancer cell proliferation, we have identified the fetal serum component activin A and its signaling through the activin receptor type II (ActRII), as necessary, although not sufficient, for PCC proliferation. Activin A induced Smad2 phosphorylation and PCC proliferation, but only in the presence of fetal bovine serum (FBS). Conversely, activin A antibodies and inhibin A suppressed FBS-induced PCC proliferation confirming activin A as one of multiple serum components required for PCC proliferation. Basic fibroblast growth factor was subsequently shown to synergize activin A-induced PCC proliferation. Inhibition of ActRII signaling using a blocking antibody or antisense-P decreased mature ActRII expression, Smad2 phosphorylation, and the apparent viability of PCCs and neuroblastoma cells grown in FBS. Suppression of ActRII signaling in PCC and neuroblastoma cells did not induce apoptosis as indicated by the ratio of active/inactive caspase 3 but did correlate with increased cell detachment and ADAM-15 expression, a disintegrin whose expression is strongly correlated with prostatic metastasis. These findings indicate that ActRII signaling is required for PCC and neuroblastoma cell viability, with ActRII mediating cell fate via the regulation of cell adhesion. That ActRII signaling governs both cell viability and cell adhesion has important implications for developing therapeutic strategies to regulate cancer growth and metastasis.
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240
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Upregulated INHBA expression may promote cell proliferation and is associated with poor survival in lung adenocarcinoma. Neoplasia 2009; 11:388-96. [PMID: 19308293 DOI: 10.1593/neo.81582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2008] [Revised: 01/24/2009] [Accepted: 01/26/2009] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The expression, mechanisms of regulation, and functional impact of INHBA (activin A) in lung adenocarcinoma (AD) have not been fully elucidated. METHODS INHBA expression was examined in 96 lung samples (86 ADs, 10 normal lung) using oligonucleotide microarrays and 187 lung samples (164 ADs, 6 bronchioalveolar carcinomas, and 17 normal lung) using immunohistochemistry. The proliferation of AD cell lines H460 and SKLU1 was examined with WST-1 assays after treatment with recombinant activin A, follistatin, and INHBA-targeting small-interfering RNA. Cells were also treated with 5-aza-2' deoxycytidine and trichostatin A to investigate the role of epigenetic regulation in INHBA expression. RESULTS Primary ADs expressed 3.1 times more INHBA mRNA than normal lung. In stage I AD patients, high levels of primary tumor INHBA transcripts were associated with worse prognosis. Immunohistochemistry confirmed higher inhibin betaA protein expression in ADs (78.7%) and bronchioalveolar carcinomas (66.7%) compared with normal lung (11.8%). H460 and SKLU1 demonstrated increased proliferation when treated with exogenous activin A and reduced proliferation when treated with follistatin or INHBA-targeting small-interfering RNA. INHBA mRNA expression in H460 cells was upregulated after treatment with trichostatin A and 5-aza-2' deoxycytidine. CONCLUSIONS INHBA is overexpressed in AD relative to controls. Inhibin betaA may promote cell proliferation, and its overexpression is associated with worse survival in stage I AD patients. In addition, overexpression of INHBA may be affected by promoter methylation and histone acetylation in a subset of lung ADs.
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Elevated level of inhibin-alpha subunit is pro-tumourigenic and pro-metastatic and associated with extracapsular spread in advanced prostate cancer. Br J Cancer 2009; 100:1784-93. [PMID: 19436293 PMCID: PMC2695696 DOI: 10.1038/sj.bjc.6605089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The biological function of inhibin-α subunit (INHα) in prostate cancer (PCa) is currently unclear. A recent study associated elevated levels of INHα in PCa patients with a higher risk of recurrence. This prompted us to use clinical specimens and functional studies to investigate the pro-tumourigenic and pro-metastatic function of INHα. We conducted a cross-sectional study to determine a link between INHα expression and a number of clinicopathological parameters including Gleason score, surgical margin, extracapsular spread, lymph node status and vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-3 expression, which are well-established prognostic factors of PCa. In addition, using two human PCa cell lines (LNCaP and PC3) representing androgen-dependent and -independent PCa respectively, we investigated the biological function of elevated levels of INHα in advanced cancer. Elevated expression of INHα in primary PCa tissues showed a higher risk of PCa patients being positive for clinicopathological parameters outlined above. Over-expressing INHα in LNCaP and PC3 cells demonstrated two different and cell-type-specific responses. INHα-positive LNCaP demonstrated reduced tumour growth whereas INHα-positive PC3 cells demonstrated increased tumour growth and metastasis through the process of lymphangiogenesis. This study is the first to demonstrate a pro-tumourigenic and pro-metastatic function for INHα associated with androgen-independent stage of metastatic prostate disease. Our results also suggest that INHα expression in the primary prostate tumour can be used as a predictive factor for prognosis of PCa.
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242
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Nicholls PK, Harrison CA, Gilchrist RB, Farnworth PG, Stanton PG. Growth differentiation factor 9 is a germ cell regulator of Sertoli cell function. Endocrinology 2009; 150:2481-90. [PMID: 19106224 DOI: 10.1210/en.2008-1048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Oocyte-secreted growth differentiation factor (GDF) 9 and bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) 15 are critical regulatory factors in female reproduction. Together, they promote granulosa cell proliferation and stimulate the maturation of preovulatory follicles. Despite their importance in female fertility, GDF9 and BMP15 expression patterns and function during spermatogenesis have not been investigated. In this study we show that the expression and stage-specific localization of both factors are limited to the germ cells of the rat seminiferous epithelium, with GDF9 being principally localized in round spermatids and BMP15 in gonocytes and pachytene spermatocytes. To identify potential cellular targets for GDF9 actions, cells of the seminiferous tubule were isolated and screened for the expression of signaling receptors [activin-like kinase (ALK) 5, ALK6, and BMP receptor, type II)]. Individual receptor types were expressed throughout the seminiferous epithelium, but coexpression of ALK5 and BMP receptor, type II was limited to Sertoli cells and round spermatids. Based on the reproductive actions of related TGFbeta ligands in the ovary and testis, GDF9 was assessed for its ability to regulate tight junction function and inhibin B production in rat Sertoli cell cultures. When recombinant mouse GDF9 was added to immature Sertoli cell cultures, it inhibited membrane localization of the junctional proteins claudin-11, occludin, and zonula occludens-1, thereby disrupting tight junction integrity. Concomitantly, GDF9 up-regulated inhibin subunit expression and significantly stimulated dimeric inhibin B protein production. Together, these results demonstrate that GDF9 and BMP15 are germ cell-specific factors in the rat testis, and that GDF9 can modulate key Sertoli cell functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter K Nicholls
- Prince Henry's Institute of Medical Research, P.O. Box 5152, Clayton 3168, Victoria, Australia
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Inhibin-alpha subunit is an independent prognostic parameter in human endometrial carcinomas: Analysis of inhibin/activin-alpha, -betaA and -betaB subunits in 302 cases. Eur J Cancer 2009; 45:1304-1314. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejca.2009.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2008] [Revised: 12/19/2008] [Accepted: 01/06/2009] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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INHBA Overexpression Promotes Cell Proliferation and May Be Epigenetically Regulated in Esophageal Adenocarcinoma. J Thorac Oncol 2009; 4:455-62. [DOI: 10.1097/jto.0b013e31819c791a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Lue Y, Wang C, Cui Y, Wang X, Sha J, Zhou Z, Xu J, Wang C, Hikim APS, Swerdloff RS. Levonorgestrel enhances spermatogenesis suppression by testosterone with greater alteration in testicular gene expression in men. Biol Reprod 2009; 80:484-92. [PMID: 19074003 PMCID: PMC6354713 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.108.070839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2008] [Revised: 07/14/2008] [Accepted: 11/17/2008] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Prior studies have demonstrated that combined treatment of testosterone with a progestin induces a more rapid and greater suppression of spermatogenesis than testosterone treatment alone. We hypothesized that the suppressive effects of the combination of testosterone undecanoate (TU) injections plus oral levonorgestrel (LNG) on spermatogenesis may be mediated through a greater perturbation of testicular gene expression than TU alone. To test this hypothesis, we performed open testicular biopsy on 12 different adult healthy subjects: 1) four healthy men as controls; 2) four men 2 wk after TU treatment; and 3) four men 2 wk after TU + LNG administration. RNA isolated from biopsies was used for DNA microarray using the Affymetrix Human Genome U133 Plus 2.0 oligonucleotide microarrays. Gene expression with >or=2-fold changes (P < 0.05) compared with control was analyzed using the National Institutes of Health Database for Annotation, Visualization, and Integrated Discovery 2008 resource. The TU treatment altered the gene expression in 109 transcripts, whereas TU + LNG altered the gene expression in 207 transcripts compared with control. Both TU and TU + LNG administration suppressed gene expression of insulin-like 3; cytochrome P450, family 17, subfamily A1 in Leydig cells; and inhibin alpha in Sertoli cells; they increased proapoptotic transcripts BCL2-like 14, insulin-like growth factor-binding protein 3; and they decreased X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis protein. In comparison with TU treatment alone, TU + LNG treatment upregulated insulin-like 6 and relaxin 1, and downregulated RNA-binding protein transcripts. We conclude that TU + LNG administration induces more changes in testicular gene expression than TU alone. This exploratory study provided a novel and valuable database to study the mechanisms of action of hormonal regulation of spermatogenesis in men and identified testicular-specific molecules that may serve as potential targets for male contraceptive development.
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Affiliation(s)
- YanHe Lue
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center and Los Angeles Biomedical Research Institute, Torrance, California 90502, USA
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Kelley R, Ren R, Pi X, Wu Y, Moreno I, Willis M, Moser M, Ross M, Podkowa M, Attisano L, Patterson C. A concentration-dependent endocytic trap and sink mechanism converts Bmper from an activator to an inhibitor of Bmp signaling. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2009; 184:597-609. [PMID: 19221194 PMCID: PMC2654123 DOI: 10.1083/jcb.200808064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Bmper, which is orthologous to Drosophila melanogaster crossveinless 2, is a secreted factor that regulates Bmp activity in a tissue- and stage-dependent manner. Both pro- and anti-Bmp activities have been postulated for Bmper, although the molecular mechanisms through which Bmper affects Bmp signaling are unclear. In this paper, we demonstrate that as molar concentrations of Bmper exceed Bmp4, Bmper dynamically switches from an activator to an inhibitor of Bmp4 signaling. Inhibition of Bmp4 through a novel endocytic trap-and-sink mechanism leads to the efficient degradation of Bmper and Bmp4 by the lysosome. Bmper-mediated internalization of Bmp4 reduces the duration and magnitude of Bmp4-dependent Smad signaling. We also determined that Noggin and Gremlin, but not Chordin, trigger endocytosis of Bmps. This endocytic transport pathway expands the extracellular roles of selective Bmp modulators to include intracellular regulation. This dosage-dependent molecular switch resolves discordances among studies that examine how Bmper regulates Bmp activity and has broad implications for Bmp signal regulation by secreted mediators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rusty Kelley
- Department of Medicine, Carolina Cardiovascular Biology Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
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Licona-Limón P, Alemán-Muench G, Chimal-Monroy J, Macías-Silva M, García-Zepeda EA, Matzuk MM, Fortoul TI, Soldevila G. Activins and inhibins: novel regulators of thymocyte development. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2009; 381:229-35. [PMID: 19338778 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2009.02.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2009] [Accepted: 02/08/2009] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Activins and inhibins are members of the transforming growth factor-beta superfamily that act on different cell types and regulate a broad range of cellular processes including proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. Here, we provide the first evidence that activins and inhibins regulate specific checkpoints during thymocyte development. We demonstrate that both activin A and inhibin A promote the DN3-DN4 transition in vitro, although they differentially control the transition to the DP stage. Whereas activin A induces the accumulation of a CD8+CD24(hi)TCRbeta(lo) intermediate subpopulation, inhibin A promotes the differentiation of DN4 to DP. In addition, both activin A and inhibin A appear to promote CD8+SP differentiation. Moreover, inhibin alpha null mice have delayed in vitro T cell development, showing both a decrease in the DN-DP transition and reduced thymocyte numbers, further supporting a role for inhibins in the control of developmental signals taking place during T cell differentiation in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula Licona-Limón
- Departamento de Inmunología, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Circuito Escolar s/n, México, DF 04510, Mexico
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Walton KL, Makanji Y, Wilce MC, Chan KL, Robertson DM, Harrison CA. A common biosynthetic pathway governs the dimerization and secretion of inhibin and related transforming growth factor beta (TGFbeta) ligands. J Biol Chem 2009; 284:9311-20. [PMID: 19193648 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m808763200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The assembly and secretion of transforming growth factor beta superfamily ligands is dependent upon non-covalent interactions between their pro- and mature domains. Despite the importance of this interaction, little is known regarding the underlying regulatory mechanisms. In this study, the binding interface between the pro- and mature domains of the inhibin alpha-subunit was characterized using in vitro mutagenesis. Three hydrophobic residues near the N terminus of the prodomain (Leu(30), Phe(37), Leu(41)) were identified that, when mutated to alanine, disrupted heterodimer assembly and secretion. It is postulated that these residues mediate dimerization by interacting non-covalently with hydrophobic residues (Phe(271), Ile(280), Pro(283), Leu(338), and Val(340)) on the outer convex surface of the mature alpha-subunit. Homology modeling indicated that these mature residues are located at the interface between two beta-sheets of the alpha-subunit and that their side chains form a hydrophobic packing core. Mutation of these residues likely disturbs the conformation of this region, thereby disrupting non-covalent interactions with the prodomain. A similar hydrophobic interface was identified spanning the pro- and mature domains of the inhibin beta(A)-subunit. Mutation of key residues, including Ile(62), Leu(66), Phe(329), and Pro(341), across this interface was disruptive for the production of both inhibin A and activin A. In addition, mutation of Ile(62) and Leu(66) in the beta(A)-propeptide reduced its ability to bind, or inhibit the activity of, activin A. Conservation of the identified hydrophobic motifs in the pro- and mature domains of other transforming growth factor beta superfamily ligands suggests that we have identified a common biosynthetic pathway governing dimer assembly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly L Walton
- Prince Henry's Institute of Medical Research, 246 Clayton Road, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia
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Bilandzic M, Chu S, Farnworth PG, Harrison C, Nicholls P, Wang Y, Escalona RM, Fuller PJ, Findlay JK, Stenvers KL. Loss of betaglycan contributes to the malignant properties of human granulosa tumor cells. Mol Endocrinol 2009; 23:539-48. [PMID: 19164448 DOI: 10.1210/me.2008-0300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Betaglycan is a type III TGFbeta receptor that modulates cellular sensitivity to inhibins and TGFbeta. Previous studies have suggested that betaglycan acts as a tumor suppressor in certain human epithelial cancers. However, the roles of betaglycan in ovarian granulosa cell tumors (GCTs) are poorly understood. The objective of this study was to determine whether human GCTs exhibit betaglycan expression and, if so, what impact this receptor has on tumor biology. Real-time PCR was used to quantify betaglycan transcripts in human GCTs (n = 17) and normal premenopausal ovaries (n = 11). This analysis established that GCTs exhibited a significant 2-fold lower mean betaglycan mRNA level as compared with the normal ovary (P < 0.05). Similarly, two human GCT cell lines, KGN and COV434, exhibited low betaglycan expression and poor responsiveness to TGFbeta and inhibin A in luciferase reporter assays, which was restored by stable transfection of wild-type betaglycan. Betaglycan significantly increased the adhesion of COV434 (P < 0.05) and KGN (P < 0.0001) cells, decreased cellular invasion through Matrigel, and inhibited wound healing. Expression of mutant forms of betaglycan that are defective in TGFbeta and/or inhibin binding in each GCT cell line revealed that the inhibitory effects of betaglycan on wound healing were most strongly linked to the inhibin-binding region of betaglycan. Furthermore, knockdown of INHA mRNA expression abrogated the betaglycan-mediated inhibition of wound healing and invasion, whereas both INHA silencing and TGFbeta neutralization abolished the betaglycan-mediated increase in adhesion to substrate. These data suggest that loss of betaglycan contributes to the pathogenesis of GCTs.
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250
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Kim Y, Kim JS, Song MS, Seo HS, Kim JC, Bae CS, Kim S, Shin T, Kim SH, Moon C. The expression and localization of inhibin isotypes in mouse testis during postnatal development. J Vet Sci 2009; 9:345-9. [PMID: 19043308 PMCID: PMC2811774 DOI: 10.4142/jvs.2008.9.4.345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Inhibin, which is important for normal gonadal function, acts on the pituitary gonadotropins to suppress follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) secretion. The level and cellular localization of the inhibin isotypes, α, βA and βB, in the testis of mice were examined during postnatal development in order to determine if inhibin expression is related to testicular maturation. Mouse testes were sampled on postnatal days (PNDs) 1, 3, 6, 18, 48 and 120, and analyzed by Western blotting and immunofluorescence. Western blot analysis showed very low levels of inhibin α, βA and βB expression in the testes at days 1 to 6 after birth. The levels then increased gradually from PND 18 to 48-120, and there were significant peaks at PND 48. Inhibin α, βA and βB were detected in testicular cells during postnatal development using immunohistochemistry. The immunoreactivity of inhibin α was rarely observed in testicular cells during PND 1 to 6, or in the cytoplasmic process of Sertoli cells surrounding the germ cells and interstitial cells during PND 18 to 120. Inhibin βA and βB immunoreactivity was rarely observed in the testis from PND 1 to 6. On the other hand, it was observed in some spermatogonial cells, as well as in the interstitial space between PND 48 and PND 120. We conclude that the expression of inhibin isotypes increases progressively in the testis of mice with increasing postnatal age, suggesting that inhibin is associated with a negative feedback signal for FSH in testicular maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujin Kim
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, College of Veterinary Medicine and Veterinary Medical Research Center, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 500-757, Korea
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