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Ke L, Lin X, Luo Y, Tao S, Yan C, He Y, Wu Y, Liu N, Qin Y. Autophagy core protein BECN1 is vital for spermatogenesis and male fertility in mice†. Biol Reprod 2024; 110:599-614. [PMID: 37975917 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioad160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Mammalian spermatogenesis is a highly complex multi-step biological process, and autophagy has been demonstrated to be involved in the process of spermatogenesis. Beclin-1/BECN1, a core autophagy factor, plays a critical role in many biological processes and diseases. However, its function in spermatogenesis remains largely unclear. In the present study, germ cell-specific Beclin 1 (Becn1) knockout mice were generated and were conducted to determine the role of Becn1 in spermatogenesis and fertility of mice. Results indicate that Becn1 deficiency leads to reduced sperm motility and quantity, partial failure of spermiation, actin network disruption, excessive residual cytoplasm, acrosome malformation, and aberrant mitochondrial accumulation of sperm, ultimately resulting in reduced fertility in male mice. Furthermore, inhibition of autophagy was observed in the testes of germ cell-specific Becn1 knockout mice, which may contribute to impaired spermiogenesis and reduced fertility. Collectively, our results reveal that Becn1 is essential for fertility and spermiogenesis in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Ke
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Feeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Xinyi Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Feeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Yuchuan Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Feeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Siming Tao
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Feeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Chang Yan
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Feeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Yifeilong He
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Feeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Yingjie Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Feeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Ning Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Feeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Food Nutrition and Human Health, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Yinghe Qin
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Feeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
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Qu M, Liu X, Wang X, Li Z, Zhou L, Li H. Palmitoylation of vacuole membrane protein 1 promotes small extracellular vesicle secretion via interaction with ALIX and influences intercellular communication. Cell Commun Signal 2024; 22:150. [PMID: 38403678 PMCID: PMC10895845 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-024-01529-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Small extracellular vesicles (EVs), exemplified by exosomes, mediate intercellular communication by transporting proteins, mRNAs, and miRNAs. Post-translational modifications are involved in controlling small EV secretion process. However, whether palmitoylation regulates small EV secretion, remains largely unexplored. METHODS Vacuole Membrane Protein 1 (VMP1) was testified to be S-palmitoylated by Palmitoylation assays. VMP1 mutant plasmids were constructed to screen out the exact palmitoylation sites. Small EVs were isolated, identified and compared between wild-type VMP1 or mutant VMP1 transfected cells. Electron microscope and immunofluorescence were used to detect multivesicular body (MVB) number and morphology change when VMP1 was mutated. Immunoprecipitation and Mass spectrum were adopted to identify the protein that interacted with palmitoylated VMP1, while knock down experiment was used to explore the function of targeted protein ALIX. Taking human Sertoli cells (SCs) and human spermatogonial stem cell like cells (SSCLCs) as a model of intercellular communication, SSCLC maintenance was detected by flow cytometry and qPCR at 12 days of differentiation. In vivo, mouse model was established by intraperitoneal injection with palmitoylation inhibitor, 2-bromopalmitate (2BP) for 3 months. RESULTS VMP1 was identified to be palmitoylated at cysteine 263,278 by ZDHHC3. Specifically, palmitoylation of VMP1 regulated its subcellular location and enhanced the amount of small EV secretion. Mutation of VMP1 palmitoylation sites interfered with the morphology and biogenesis of MVBs through suppressing intraluminal vesicle formation. Furthermore, inhibition of VMP1 palmitoylation impeded small EV secretion by affecting the interaction of VMP1 with ALIX, an accessory protein of the ESCRT machinery. Taking SCs and SSCLCs as a model of intercellular communication, we discovered VMP1 palmitoylation in SCs was vital to the growth status of SSCLCs in a co-culture system. Inhibition of VMP1 palmitoylation caused low self-maintenance, increased apoptosis, and decreased proliferation rate of SSCLCs. In vivo, intraperitoneal injection of 2BP inhibited VMP1 palmitoylation and exosomal marker expression in mouse testes, which were closely associated with the level of spermatogenic cell apoptosis and proliferation. CONCLUSIONS Our study revealed a novel mechanism for small EV secretion regulated by VMP1 palmitoylation in Sertoli cells, and demonstrated its pivotal role in intercellular communication and SSC niche.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengyuan Qu
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 13 Hangkong Road, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei, China.
- The Reproduction Medical Center, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University (Luohu Hospital), 47 Youyi Road, Shenzhen, 518000, Guangdong, China.
| | - Xinyu Liu
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 13 Hangkong Road, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei, China
| | - Xiaotong Wang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 13 Hangkong Road, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei, China
- The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Zili Li
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 13 Hangkong Road, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei, China
| | - Liquan Zhou
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 13 Hangkong Road, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei, China.
| | - Honggang Li
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 13 Hangkong Road, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei, China.
- Wuhan Huake Reproductive Medicine Hospital, Wuhan, China.
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Ma Y, Ma QW, Sun Y, Chen XF. The emerging role of extracellular vesicles in the testis. Hum Reprod 2023; 38:334-351. [PMID: 36728671 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dead015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are nano-sized membrane-bounded particles, released by all cells and capable of transporting bioactive cargoes, proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids, to regulate a variety of biological functions. Seminal plasma is enriched in EVs, and extensive evidence has revealed the role of EVs (e.g. prostasomes and epididymosomes) in the male genital tract. Recently, EVs released from testicular cells have been isolated and identified, and some new insights have been generated on their role in maintaining normal spermatogenesis and steroidogenesis in the testis. In the seminiferous tubules, Sertoli cell-derived EVs can promote the differentiation of spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs), and EVs secreted from undifferentiated A spermatogonia can inhibit the proliferation of SSCs. In the testicular interstitium, EVs have been identified in endothelial cells, macrophages, telocytes, and Leydig cells, although their roles are still elusive. Testicular EVs can also pass through the blood-testis barrier and mediate inter-compartment communication between the seminiferous tubules and the interstitium. Immature Sertoli cell-derived EVs can promote survival and suppress the steroidogenesis of Leydig cells. Exosomes isolated from macrophages can protect spermatogonia from radiation-induced injury. In addition to their role in intercellular communication, testicular EVs may also participate in the removal of aberrant proteins and the delivery of antigens for immune tolerance. EVs released from testicular cells can be detected in seminal plasma, which makes them potential biomarkers reflecting testicular function and disease status. The testicular EVs in seminal plasma may also affect the female reproductive tract to facilitate conception and may even affect early embryogenesis through modulating sperm RNA. EVs represent a new type of intercellular messenger in the testis. A detailed understanding of the role of testicular EV may contribute to the discovery of new mechanisms causing male infertility and enable the development of new diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for the treatment of infertile men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Ma
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
| | - Qin-Wen Ma
- Shanghai Xinzhu Middle School, Shanghai, China
| | - Yun Sun
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiang-Feng Chen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Human Sperm Bank, Shanghai, China
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4
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Brant A, Schlegel PN. Modern surgical treatment of azoospermia. Curr Opin Urol 2023; 33:39-44. [PMID: 36301052 DOI: 10.1097/mou.0000000000001055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW To review noteworthy research from the last 2 years on surgical management of azoospermia. RECENT FINDINGS The recommended treatments for nonobstructive and obstructive azoospermia have not appreciably changed. However, recent level-1 evidence has reinforced superiority of micro-dissection testicular sperm extraction over sperm aspiration in men with nonobstructive azoospermia, and several studies have identified genetic and other clinical factors that may aid in selecting candidates for testicular sperm extraction. Machine learning technology has shown promise as a decision support system for patient selection prior to sperm retrieval as well a tool to aid in sperm identification from testis tissue. SUMMARY Most men with obstructive azoospermia who desire fertility can be offered either surgical reconstruction or sperm retrieval. For men with nonobstructive azoospermia, sperm retrieval with microdissection testicular sperm extraction remains the gold standard treatment. Uncovering more genetic causes of nonobstructive azoospermia may aid in properly counseling and selecting patients for microdissection testicular sperm extraction. Neural networks and deep learning may have a future role in patient selection for surgical sperm retrieval and postprocedural sperm identification.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Peter N Schlegel
- Department of Urology
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York, USA
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5
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Non-invasive Molecular Biomarkers for Predicting Outcomes of Micro-TESE in Patients with Idiopathic Non-obstructive Azoospermia. Expert Rev Mol Med 2022; 24:e22. [PMID: 35659383 DOI: 10.1017/erm.2022.17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
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6
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Huang J, Ren H, Chen A, Li T, Wang H, Jiang L, Zheng S, Qi H, Ji B, Wang X, Qu J, Zhao J, Qiu L. Perfluorooctane sulfonate induces suppression of testosterone biosynthesis via Sertoli cell-derived exosomal/miR-9-3p downregulating StAR expression in Leydig cells. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2022; 301:118960. [PMID: 35150797 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2022.118960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2021] [Revised: 01/23/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) is associated with male reproductive disorder, but the related mechanisms are still unclear. In this study, we used in vivo and in vitro models to explore the role of Sertoli cell-derived exosomes (SC-Exo)/miR-9-3p/StAR signaling pathway on PFOS-induced suppression of testosterone biosynthesis. Forty male ICR mice were orally administrated PFOS (0.5-10 mg/kg/bw) for 4 weeks. Bodyweight, organ index, sperm count, reproductive hormones were evaluated. Primary Sertoli cells and Leydig cells were used to delineate the molecular mechanisms that mediate the effects of PFOS on testosterone biosynthesis. Our results demonstrated that PFOS dose-dependently induced a decrease in sperm count, low levels of testosterone, and damage in testicular interstitium morphology. In vitro models, PFOS significantly increased miR-9-3p levels in Sertoli cells and SC-Exo, accompanied by a decrease in testosterone secretion and StAR expression in Leydig cells when Leydig cells were exposed to SC-Exo. Meanwhile, inhibition of SC-Exo or miR-9-3p by their inhibitors significantly rescued PFOS-induced decreases in testosterone secretion and the mRNA and protein expression of the StAR gene in Leydig cells. In summary, the present study highlights the role of the SC-Exo/miR-9-3p/StAR signaling pathway in PFOS-induced suppression of testosterone biosynthesis, advancing our understanding of molecular mechanisms for PFOS-induced male reproductive disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiyan Huang
- School of Public Health, Nantong University, 9 Seyuan Rd., Nantong, 226019, PR China
| | - Hang Ren
- School of Public Health, Nantong University, 9 Seyuan Rd., Nantong, 226019, PR China
| | - Anni Chen
- School of Public Health, Nantong University, 9 Seyuan Rd., Nantong, 226019, PR China
| | - Ting Li
- School of Public Health, Nantong University, 9 Seyuan Rd., Nantong, 226019, PR China
| | - Hongxia Wang
- School of Public Health, Nantong University, 9 Seyuan Rd., Nantong, 226019, PR China
| | - Lianlian Jiang
- School of Public Health, Nantong University, 9 Seyuan Rd., Nantong, 226019, PR China
| | - Shaokai Zheng
- School of Public Health, Nantong University, 9 Seyuan Rd., Nantong, 226019, PR China
| | - Han Qi
- School of Public Health, Nantong University, 9 Seyuan Rd., Nantong, 226019, PR China
| | - Binyan Ji
- School of Public Health, Nantong University, 9 Seyuan Rd., Nantong, 226019, PR China
| | - Xipei Wang
- School of Public Health, Nantong University, 9 Seyuan Rd., Nantong, 226019, PR China; Jiangsu Province-Hai'an People's Hospital, Hai'an City, Nantong City, 17 Zhongba Middle Road, (Affiliated Haian Hospital of Nantong University), PR China
| | - Jianhua Qu
- School of Public Health, Nantong University, 9 Seyuan Rd., Nantong, 226019, PR China
| | - Jianya Zhao
- School of Public Health, Nantong University, 9 Seyuan Rd., Nantong, 226019, PR China
| | - Lianglin Qiu
- School of Public Health, Nantong University, 9 Seyuan Rd., Nantong, 226019, PR China.
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7
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Zhang Q, Liu Z, Han X, Li Y, Xia T, Zhu Y, Li Z, Wang L, Hao L, Hu F, Cao Y, Han C, Zhu Z. Circulatory exosomal tRF-Glu-CTC-005 and tRF-Gly-GCC-002 serve as predictive factors of successful microdissection testicular sperm extraction in patients with nonobstructive azoospermia. Fertil Steril 2021; 117:512-521. [PMID: 34955241 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2021.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2021] [Revised: 10/31/2021] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To identify circulating plasma exosomal transfer RNA-derived fragments (tRFs) as the predictive factors of successful microdissection testicular sperm extraction (micro-TESE) in patients with nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA). DESIGN Case and control prospective study. SETTING Academic research laboratory. PATIENT(S) Twelve patients with NOA with successful sperm retrieval by micro-TESE, 18 patients with NOA with failed sperm retrieval by micro-TESE, and 12 normozoospermic fertile controls. INTERVENTION(S) Blood samples were collected from participants. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) The abundance of tRFs normalized as counts per million of the total aligned reads with the next-generation sequencing system; candidate tRF levels were validated through quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction; predictive accuracy was evaluated by the receiver operating characteristic area under the curve analysis. The nomogram was built for ranking. RESULT(S) The plasma circulating exosomal tRF-Gly-GCC-002 and tRF-Glu-CTC-005 manifested the most confident differential expression between patients with NOA with successful sperm retrieval by micro-TESE and patients with NOA with failed sperm retrieval by micro-TESE. The target gene prediction of these 2 tRFs followed by the Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analysis indicated the functional enrichment of neuroendocrine protein metabolism and striatum/subpallium development. The herpes simplex virus 1 infection pathway was also involved. The receiver operating characteristic area under the curve (AUC) analysis demonstrated a promising predictive accuracy: tRF-Gly-GCC-002, AUC of 0.921, and tRF-Glu-CTC-005, AUC of 0.954. A regression model was built and presented with the nomogram for further assessment. CONCLUSION(S) This study described the exosomal tRF-Gly-GCC-002 and tRF-Glu-CTC-005 expression values, indicated a promising predictive effect for accessibility of sperm retrieval through micro-TESE from patients with NOA, and highlighted tRF-Gly-GCC-002 and tRF-Glu-CTC-005 as useful biomarkers in patients with NOA seeking in vitro conception with their residual sperm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiang Zhang
- Xuzhou Engineering Research Center of Medical Genetics and Transformation, Key Laboratory of Genetic Foundation and Clinical Application, Department of Genetics, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhao Liu
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoxiao Han
- School of Life Science, Tongji University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Ying Li
- Medical Technology College, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Tian Xia
- Graduate School, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Yao Zhu
- Xuzhou Engineering Research Center of Medical Genetics and Transformation, Key Laboratory of Genetic Foundation and Clinical Application, Department of Genetics, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhenbei Li
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, People's Republic of China; Department of Urology, Xuzhou Central Hospital, Xuzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Liang Wang
- Department of Bioinformatics, School of Medical Informatics and Engineering, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Lin Hao
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, People's Republic of China; Department of Urology, Xuzhou Central Hospital, Xuzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Fangfang Hu
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Xuzhou Central Hospital, Xuzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Yijuan Cao
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Xuzhou Central Hospital, Xuzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Conghui Han
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, People's Republic of China; Department of Urology, Xuzhou Central Hospital, Xuzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Zuobin Zhu
- Xuzhou Engineering Research Center of Medical Genetics and Transformation, Key Laboratory of Genetic Foundation and Clinical Application, Department of Genetics, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, People's Republic of China.
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8
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The guardians of germ cells; Sertoli-derived exosomes against electromagnetic field-induced oxidative stress in mouse spermatogonial stem cells. Theriogenology 2021; 173:112-122. [PMID: 34371438 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2021.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2021] [Revised: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 08/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Nowadays, prolonged exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMF) has raised public concern about the detrimental potential of EMF on spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) and spermatogenesis. Recent studies introduced the fundamental role of Sertoli cell paracrine signaling in the regulation of SSCs maintenance and differentiation in fertility preservation. Thus we investigated the therapeutic effect of Sertoli-derived exosomes (Sertoli-EXOs) as powerful paracrine mediators in SSCs subjected to EMF and its underlying mechanisms. SSCs and Sertoli cells were isolated from neonate mice testis, and identified by their specific markers. Then SSCs were exposed to 50 Hz EMF with intensity of 2.5 mT (1 h for 5 days) and supplemented with exosomes that were isolated from pre-pubertal Sertoli cells. Sertoli-EXOs were characterized and the uptake was observed by PKH26 labeling. The cell viability, colonization efficiency, reactive oxygen species (ROS) balance, cell cycle arrest and apoptosis induction were then analysed. SSCs were confirmed by immunocytochemistry (Oct4, Plzf) and Sertoli cells were identified through Sox9 and vimentin expression by immunocytochemistry and Real-time PCR (qRT-PCR), respectively. Our results demonstrated the detrimental effect of EMF via ROS accumulation that reduced the expression of catalase antioxidant, cell viability and colonization of SSCs. Also, AO/PI and flow cytometry analysis demonstrated the elevation of apoptosis in SSCs exposed to EMF in comparison with control. qRT-PCR data confirmed the up-regulation of apoptotic gene (Caspase-3) and down-regulation of SSCs specific gene (GFRα1). Consequently, the administration of Sertoli-EXOs exerted ameliorative effect on SSCs and significantly improved these changes through the regulation of oxidative stress. These findings suggest that Sertoli-EXOs have positive impact on SSCs exposed to EMF and can be useful in further investigation of Sertoli-EXOs as a novel therapeutic agent which may recover the deregulated SSCs microenvironment and spermatogenesis after exposure to EMF.
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9
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Chen Q, Holt WV. Extracellular vesicles in the male reproductive tract of the softshell turtle. Reprod Fertil Dev 2021; 33:519-529. [PMID: 33715768 DOI: 10.1071/rd20214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2020] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are a heterogeneous group of cell-derived membranous structures comprising exosomes and microvesicles that originate from the endosomal system or are shed from the plasma membrane respectively. As mediators of cell communication, EVs are present in biological fluids and are involved in many physiological and pathological processes. The role of EVs has been extensively investigated in the mammalian male reproductive tract, but the characteristics and identification of EVs in reptiles are still largely unknown. In this review we focus our attention on EVs and their distribution in the male reproductive tract of the Chinese softshell turtle Pelodiscus sinensis , mainly discussing the potential roles of EVs in intercellular communication during different phases of the reproductive process. In softshell turtles, Sertoli-germ cell communication via multivesicular bodies can serve as a source of EVs during spermatogenesis, and these EVs interact with epithelia of the ductuli efferentes and the principal cells of the epididymal epithelium. These EVs are involved in sperm maturation, transport and storage. EVs are also shed by telocytes, which contact and exchange information with other, as well as distant interstitial cells. Overall, EVs play an indispensable role in the normal reproductive function of P. sinensis and can be used as an excellent biomarker for understanding male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiusheng Chen
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, 210095, China; and Corresponding author
| | - William V Holt
- Academic Unit of Reproductive and Developmental Medicine, University of Sheffield, Western Bank, Sheffield, S10 2TN, UK
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10
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Tamessar CT, Trigg NA, Nixon B, Skerrett-Byrne DA, Sharkey DJ, Robertson SA, Bromfield EG, Schjenken JE. Roles of male reproductive tract extracellular vesicles in reproduction. Am J Reprod Immunol 2020; 85:e13338. [PMID: 32885533 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2020] [Revised: 08/04/2020] [Accepted: 08/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are secreted cell-derived membrane structures present in all organisms across animal, bacterial, and plant phyla. These vesicles play important roles in cell-cell communication in many processes integral to health and disease. Recent studies demonstrate that EVs and their cargo have influential and conserved roles in male reproduction. While EVs have been isolated from virtually all specialized tissues comprising the male reproductive tract, they are best characterized in the epididymis (epididymosomes) and seminal fluid (seminal fluid extracellular vesicles or prostasomes). Broadly speaking, EVs promote reproductive success through supporting sperm development and function, as well as influencing the physiology of female reproductive tract cells after mating. In this review, we present current knowledge on the composition and function of male reproductive tract EV populations in both normal physiology and pathology, and argue that their functions identify them as critical regulators of fertility and fecundity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cottrell T Tamessar
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, The University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, Pregnancy and Reproduction Program, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - Natalie A Trigg
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, The University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, Pregnancy and Reproduction Program, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - Brett Nixon
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, The University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, Pregnancy and Reproduction Program, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - David A Skerrett-Byrne
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, The University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, Pregnancy and Reproduction Program, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - David J Sharkey
- The Robinson Research Institute and Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Sarah A Robertson
- The Robinson Research Institute and Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Elizabeth G Bromfield
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, The University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, Pregnancy and Reproduction Program, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia.,Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - John E Schjenken
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, The University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, Pregnancy and Reproduction Program, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia.,The Robinson Research Institute and Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
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11
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Lara NDLEM, Costa GMJ, Figueiredo AFA, de França LR. The Sertoli cell: what can we learn from different vertebrate models? Anim Reprod 2020; 16:81-92. [PMID: 33299481 PMCID: PMC7720927 DOI: 10.21451/1984-3143-ar2018-125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Besides having medical applications, comparative studies on reproductive biology are very useful, providing, for instance, essential knowledge for basic, conservation and biotechnological research. In order to maintain the reproductive potential and the survival of all vertebrate species, both sperm and steroid production need to occur inside the testis. From the approximately fifty thousand vertebrate species still alive, very few species are already investigated; however, our knowledge regarding Sertoli cell biology is quite good. In this regard, it is already known that since testis differentiation the Sertoli cells are the somatic cells in charge of supporting and orchestrating germ cells during development and full spermatogenesis in adult animals. In the present review, we highlight key aspects related to Sertoli cell biology in vertebrates and show that this key testis somatic cell presents huge and intrinsic plasticity, particularly when cystic (fish and amphibians) and non-cystic (reptiles, birds and mammals) spermatogenesis is compared. In particular, we briefly discuss the main aspects related to Sertoli cells functions, interactions with germ cells, Sertoli cells proliferation and efficiency, as well as those regarding spermatogonial stem cell niche regulation, which are crucial aspects responsible for the magnitude of sperm production. Most importantly, we show that we could greatly benefit from investigations using different vertebrate experimental models, mainly now that there is a big concern regarding the decline in human sperm counts caused by a multitude of factors.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Guilherme Mattos Jardim Costa
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | | | - Luiz Renato de França
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
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12
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Qu W, Tarique I, Deng B, Zhang Y, Haseeb A, Chen Q, Yang P. Cellular evidence of autophagy in Sertoli cells during spermatogenesis in goats. Theriogenology 2020; 154:237-245. [PMID: 32682203 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.05.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2020] [Revised: 05/17/2020] [Accepted: 05/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Sertoli cells (SCs) play their nursing role as structural and functional supporting cells during spermatogenesis to ensure the production of highly specialized mature spermatozoa. Besides that, the role of SCs in autophagy during active (adult) and inactive (young) spermatogenesis in the caprine testis is still largely unknown. In this study, we investigated autophagy in goat SCs by light microscopy, immunohistochemistry (IHC), double immunofluorescence (double-IF), and transmission electron microscopy. Light microscopy showed active seminiferous tubules with SCs and layers of developing germ cells in the adult goat testis. In young goats, layer of germ cells and SCs was viewed on the basal membrane in the seminiferous tubule. IHC of autophagy-related 7 (ATG7) showed moderate expressions in the cytoplasmic extensions of SCs during inactive spermatogenesis, and strong expression was observed during active spermatogenesis in the testis of goat. Co-immunolabeling of p62 or light chain 3 (LC3) with vimentin showed increasing expression from the basal to the luminal compartment of the seminiferous tubule and stronger expression during active than inactive spermatogenesis in the testis of goat. Ultrastructure assessment of the cytoplasm in SCs showed phagophores, generated from the endoplasmic reticulum during active spermatocytogenesis. Numerous autophagosomes and autolysosomes were noted in the SCs cytoplasm, which surrounds the spermatogenic cells in the basal compartment of the seminiferous tubules. At a later stage, SCs showed autophagosomes and autolysosomes, together with multivesicular bodies (MVB), during spermiogenesis at different phases of the acrosome formation. Numerous embedded elongated spermatozoa were found in the cytoplasm of SCs, surrounded by autophagic components and MVB. Under TEM, the mean diameter of autophagosomes was 952.35 nm and that of autolysosomes was 504.38 nm. Collectively, these results suggest that autophagy is active in SCs during caprine spermatogenesis and that the level of autophagy becomes more evident as spermatogenesis advances from the basal to the luminal compartment of SC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjia Qu
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, 210095, China.
| | - Imran Tarique
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, 210095, China.
| | - Bihua Deng
- Institute of Veterinary Immunology and Engineering, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, 210014, China.
| | - Yue Zhang
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, 210095, China.
| | - Abdul Haseeb
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, 210095, China.
| | - Quisheng Chen
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, 210095, China.
| | - Ping Yang
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, 210095, China.
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13
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Chen H, Huang Y, Liu T, Haseeb A, Ahmed N, Zhang L, Bian X, Chen Q. Characteristics of seasonal spermatogenesis in the soft-shelled turtle. Anim Reprod Sci 2020; 214:106307. [PMID: 32087920 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2020.106307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2019] [Revised: 12/11/2019] [Accepted: 01/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Spermatogenesis in reptiles is a seasonally dependent physiological process that is not temporally associated with male mating behavior. Characteristics of seasonal spermatogenesis in reptiles, however, remain largely unknown. In this review, there is a coverage of the characteristics of soft-shelled turtle, Pelodiscus sinensis, during seasonal spermatogenesis that provides insights into spermatogenesis of testudines. The seminiferous epithelium of P. sinensis are undergoing spermatogenesis during the summer and fall, but are quiescent throughout the rest of the year; germ cells progress through spermatogenic stages in a temporal rather than a spatial pattern. While apoptotic germ cells mainly appear in the non-spermatogenic phase, these are seldom present during active spermatogenesis. It is inferred that apoptosis may be one of the reasons for germ cell loss during the resting phase of spermatogenesis. During the period when spermatogenesis is occurring, Sertoli cells become very narrow and are in contact with several round/elongated spermatids. Many residual spermatozoa can be internalized and degraded within Sertoli cells by entosis during the non-spermatogenic phase, which precedes the next reproductive cycle in P. sinensis. In the late spermatogenic phase, round-shaped mitochondria of spermatids become elongated and swollen, subsequently forming a crescent-like shape and develop into "onion-like" shaped mitochondria. As spermiogenesis progresses, the endoplasmic reticulum of spermatids is transferred into a specialized structure called the "Chrysanthemum flower center", which may be a source of autophagosomal membranes. The information provided in this review will help improve understanding of characteristics of seasonal spermatogenesis, which will hopefully promote interest in the study of reptilian species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Chen
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, 210095, China
| | - Yufei Huang
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, 210095, China
| | - Tengfei Liu
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, 210095, China
| | - Abdul Haseeb
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, 210095, China
| | - Nisar Ahmed
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, 210095, China
| | - Li Zhang
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, 210095, China
| | - Xunguang Bian
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, 210095, China
| | - Qiusheng Chen
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, 210095, China.
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14
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Abstract
Exosomes are nanosized membrane vesicles secreted by wide variety of cells and found in abundance in biological fluids including semen. They contain cargo of lipids, proteins, microRNAs and mRNAs, and are known to play a major role in intracellular communication. Seminal exosomes mainly include epididymosomes and prostasomes. Most of the proteins associated with the epididymosomes are transferred to the sperm subcellular or membranous domains during their epididymal transit and are involved in the acquisition of fertilizing ability, modulation of motility and protection against oxidative stress. Proteins associated with prostasomes stimulate sperm motility and regulate the timing of capacitation to avoid premature induction of acrosome reaction. Furthermore, prostasomes protect the sperm from immune responses within the female reproductive tract. Overall, exosome-associated proteins play an indispensable role in maturation of spermatozoa and therefore, serve as an excellent biomarker in early diagnosis of male infertility.
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15
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Chen H, Huang Y, Yang P, Shi Y, Ahmed N, Liu T, Bai X, Haseeb A, Chen Q. Autophagy enhances lipid droplet development during spermiogenesis in Chinese soft-shelled turtle, Pelodiscus sinensis. Theriogenology 2019; 147:154-165. [PMID: 31787469 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2019.11.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2019] [Revised: 11/11/2019] [Accepted: 11/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Spermiogenesis is a highly organized process of the metamorphosis of round spermatids into spermatozoa in the testes. Autophagy is involved in the physiological process of spermiogenesis and its crucial role in germ-plasm clearance conserved across kingdoms. However, the fate of by-products generated through autophagy during spermiogenesis is still largely unknown. In the present study, we showed that the autophagy enhanced lipid droplets (LDs) formation during spermiogenesis in Chinese soft-shelled turtle, Pelodiscus sinensis. TEM and Oil Red O staining results found that the number and size of LDs within spermatid increased considerably during the process of spermiogenesis. RNA-Seq analysis revealed that autophagy was highly activated via the PI3K pathway during spermatogenesis. Inhibiting autophagy with 3-methyladenine (3-MA) significantly decreased testicular triglycerides (TGs) and fatty acid (FAs) content. In comparison with the control group, the number and size of LD within elongating spermatids was reduced significantly in the 3-MA group. Moreover, DGAT1, a diacylglycerol acyltransferase, which normally localize to the endoplasmic reticulum, was found to co-localize with LDs. Taken together, our results showed that FAs released through the autophagic degradation of germ-plasm was replenished LDs of spermatid, increasing LD number and size, during the process of spermiogenesis. These LDs facilitate long-term sperm storage in the epididymis of Chinese soft-shelled turtle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Chen
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, 210095, China
| | - Yufei Huang
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, 210095, China
| | - Ping Yang
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, 210095, China
| | - Yonghong Shi
- Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai, 200241, China
| | - Nisar Ahmed
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, 210095, China
| | - Tengfei Liu
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, 210095, China
| | - Xuebing Bai
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, 210095, China
| | - Abdul Haseeb
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, 210095, China
| | - Qiusheng Chen
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, 210095, China.
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16
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Tarique I, Vistro WA, Bai X, Yang P, Hong C, Huang Y, Haseeb A, Liu E, Gandahi NS, Xu M, Liu Y, Chen Q. LIPOPHAGY: a novel form of steroidogenic activity within the LEYDIG cell during the reproductive cycle of turtle. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2019; 17:19. [PMID: 30738428 PMCID: PMC6368689 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-019-0462-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2018] [Accepted: 01/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Steroidogenesis is an indispensable process that is indirectly associated with spermatogenesis in the Leydig cell (LC) to utilize the lipid droplets (LDs) that are critical to maintaining normal testosterone synthesis. The regulation of LD mobilization, known as lipophagy, in the LC is still largely unknown. METHOD In the present study, the LC of the Chinese soft-shelled turtle was investigated to identify the steroidogenic activity and lipophagy during the annual reproductive cycle by light microscopy, immunohistochemistry (IHC), immunofluorescence (IF), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). RESULTS The LC showed a dynamic steroidogenic function with strong activity of 3β-HSD, vimentin and tubular ER during hibernation by IHC and TEM. The tubulo-vesicular ER had a weak immunopositive reaction for 3β-HSD in the LC during reproductive phase, suggesting persistent steroidogenic activity. ORO staining and TEM demonstrated that a larger number of LDs had accumulated in the LC during hibernation than in the reproductive phase. These LDs existed in close association with mitochondria and lysosomes by being dynamically surrounded by intermediate filaments to facilitate LD utilization. Lysosomes were found directly attached to large LDs, forming an autophagic tube and engulfing LDs, suggesting that micro-lipophagy occurs during hibernation. Furthermore, the IHC of ATG7 (Autophagy Related Gene 7) and the IF of the LC3 (Microtubule-associated protein light chain 3), p62 (Sequestosome-1 (SQSTM1) and LAMP1(Lysosomal-associated membrane protein 1) results demonstrated strong expression, and further confirmation by TEM showed the existence of an autophagosome and an autolysosome and their fusion during the hibernation season. CONCLUSION In conclusion, the present study provides clear evidence of LD consumption in the LC by lipophagy, lysosome and mitochondria during the hibernation period, which is a key aspect of steroidogenesis in the Chinese soft-shelled turtle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Imran Tarique
- MOE Joint international Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095 Jiangsu Province China
| | - Waseem Ali Vistro
- MOE Joint international Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095 Jiangsu Province China
| | - Xuebing Bai
- MOE Joint international Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095 Jiangsu Province China
| | - Ping Yang
- MOE Joint international Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095 Jiangsu Province China
| | - Chen Hong
- MOE Joint international Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095 Jiangsu Province China
| | - Yufei Huang
- MOE Joint international Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095 Jiangsu Province China
| | - Abdul Haseeb
- MOE Joint international Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095 Jiangsu Province China
- Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Poonch Rawalakot, Azad Kashmir, Pakistan
| | - Enxue Liu
- MOE Joint international Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095 Jiangsu Province China
| | - Noor Samad Gandahi
- MOE Joint international Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095 Jiangsu Province China
| | - Mengdi Xu
- MOE Joint international Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095 Jiangsu Province China
| | - Yifei Liu
- MOE Joint international Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095 Jiangsu Province China
| | - Qiusheng Chen
- MOE Joint international Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095 Jiangsu Province China
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17
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Santiago Valtierra FX, Peñalva DA, Luquez JM, Furland NE, Vásquez C, Reyes JG, Aveldaño MI, Oresti GM. Elovl4 and Fa2h expression during rat spermatogenesis: a link to the very-long-chain PUFAs typical of germ cell sphingolipids. J Lipid Res 2018; 59:1175-1189. [PMID: 29724783 DOI: 10.1194/jlr.m081885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2017] [Revised: 04/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The sphingolipids (SLs) of rodent spermatogenic cells (spermatocytes, spermatids) and spermatozoa contain nonhydroxylated and 2-hydroxylated versions of very-long-chain (C26-C32) PUFAs (n-V and h-V, respectively) not present in Sertoli cells (SCs). Here, we investigated the expression of selected fatty acid elongases [elongation of very-long-chain fatty acid protein (Elovl)], with a focus on Elovl4, and a fatty acid 2-hydroxylase (Fa2h) in rat testes with postnatal development and germ cell differentiation. Along with Elovl5 and Elovl2, Elovl4 was actively transcribed in the adult testis. Elovl4 mRNA levels were high in immature testes and SCs, though the protein was absent. The Elovl4 protein was a germ cell product. All cells under study elongated [3H]arachidonate to tetraenoic and pentaenoic C24 PUFA, but only germ cells produced C26-C32 PUFAs. Spermatocytes displayed the highest Elovl4 protein levels and enzymatic activity. Fa2h mRNA was produced exclusively in germ cells, mostly round spermatids. As a protein, Fa2h was mainly concentrated in late spermatids, in the step of spermiogenesis in which they elongate and their heads change shape. The expression of Elovl4 and Fa2h thus correlate with the abundance of n-Vs and h-Vs in the SLs of rat spermatocytes and spermatids, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florencia X Santiago Valtierra
- Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de Bahía Blanca, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET) y Universidad Nacional del Sur (UNS), Bahía Blanca, Argentina
| | - Daniel A Peñalva
- Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de Bahía Blanca, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET) y Universidad Nacional del Sur (UNS), Bahía Blanca, Argentina
| | - Jessica M Luquez
- Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de Bahía Blanca, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET) y Universidad Nacional del Sur (UNS), Bahía Blanca, Argentina
| | - Natalia E Furland
- Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de Bahía Blanca, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET) y Universidad Nacional del Sur (UNS), Bahía Blanca, Argentina
| | - Claudia Vásquez
- Instituto de Química, Facultad de Ciencias, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Valparaíso, Valparaíso, Chile
| | - Juan G Reyes
- Instituto de Química, Facultad de Ciencias, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Valparaíso, Valparaíso, Chile
| | - Marta I Aveldaño
- Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de Bahía Blanca, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET) y Universidad Nacional del Sur (UNS), Bahía Blanca, Argentina
| | - Gerardo M Oresti
- Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de Bahía Blanca, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET) y Universidad Nacional del Sur (UNS), Bahía Blanca, Argentina
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18
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Ahmed N, Liu Y, Chen H, Yang P, Waqas Y, Liu T, Gandahi JA, Huang Y, Wang L, Song X, Rajput IR, Wang T, Chen Q. Novel cellular evidence of lipophagy within the Sertoli cells during spermatogenesis in the turtle. Aging (Albany NY) 2017; 9:41-51. [PMID: 27750210 PMCID: PMC5310655 DOI: 10.18632/aging.101070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2016] [Accepted: 09/30/2016] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is a complex process producing haploid spermatozoa, and the formation of lipid droplets (LDs) within Sertoli cells is critical to maintaining normal spermatogenesis. However, the utilization of LDs within Sertoli cells is still largely unknown. In the present study, proliferation of spermatogonial cells had begun in May, whereas the meiotic cells occurred predominately in July and majority of spermiogenic cells were observed in the seminiferous tubules in October. However, TEM and Oil Red O staining demonstrated that a larger number of LDs had accumulated within the Sertoli cells in May compared to that in October. There were several LDs attached to the isolation membrane/phagophore, suggesting that the LDs may be a source of endogenous energy for the biogenesis of autophagosomes. The LDs were enclosed within the autophagosomes in May, whereas, autophagosomes and mitochondria were directly attached with large LDs within the Sertoli cells in October. Furthermore, immunohistochemistry results demonstrated the stronger localization of LC3 on the Sertoli cells in May than in October. This study is the first to provide clear evidence of the two different modes of lipophagy for lipid consumption within Sertoli cells, which is a key aspect of Sertoli germ cell communication during spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nisar Ahmed
- Laboratory of Animal Cell Biology and Embryology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province 210095, China.,Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, LUAWMS, Uthal 90150, Pakistan
| | - Yi Liu
- Laboratory of Animal Cell Biology and Embryology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province 210095, China
| | - Hong Chen
- Laboratory of Animal Cell Biology and Embryology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province 210095, China
| | - Ping Yang
- Laboratory of Animal Cell Biology and Embryology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province 210095, China
| | - Yasir Waqas
- Laboratory of Animal Cell Biology and Embryology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province 210095, China
| | - Tengfei Liu
- Laboratory of Animal Cell Biology and Embryology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province 210095, China
| | - Jameel Ahmed Gandahi
- Faculty of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Sciences, Sindh Agriculture University, Tando Jam 70060, Pakistan
| | - Yufei Huang
- Laboratory of Animal Cell Biology and Embryology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province 210095, China
| | - Lingling Wang
- Laboratory of Animal Cell Biology and Embryology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province 210095, China
| | - Xuejing Song
- Laboratory of Animal Cell Biology and Embryology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province 210095, China
| | | | - Taozhi Wang
- Laboratory of Animal Cell Biology and Embryology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province 210095, China
| | - Qiusheng Chen
- Laboratory of Animal Cell Biology and Embryology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province 210095, China
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19
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Yang P, Ahmed N, Wang L, Chen H, Waqas Y, Liu T, Haseeb A, Bangulzai N, Huang Y, Chen Q. In vivo autophagy and biogenesis of autophagosomes within male haploid cells during spermiogenesis. Oncotarget 2017; 8:56791-56801. [PMID: 28915631 PMCID: PMC5593602 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.18221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2017] [Accepted: 04/26/2017] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Autophagy is a unique catabolic pathway that is linked to several physiological processes. However, its role in the process of spermiogenesis is largely unknown. The aim of the current study was to determine the in vivo role of autophagy and the origin of autophagosome membrane biogenesis within male haploid cells. Our immunohistochemistry results demonstrated that LC3 and ATG7 localization were increased dramatically in round to elongated spermatids (haploid cells) towards the lumen of seminiferous tubules, however, poorly expressed in the early stages of germ cells near the basal membrane. Moreover, transmission electron microscopy revealed that the numbers of lysosomes and autophagosomes increased in the elongated spermatids as spermiogenesis progressed. However, no evidence was found for the presence of autophagosomes in the Sertoli cells, spermatogonia or early primary spermatocytes (diploid cells). Furthermore, TEM showed that many endoplasmic reticula were transformed into a “chrysanthemum flower center,” from which a double-layered isolation membrane appeared to develop into an autophagosome. This study provides novel evidence about the formation of autophagosomes through the chrysanthemum flower center from the endoplasmic reticulum, and suggests that autophagy may have an important role in the removal of extra cytoplasm within male haploid cells during spermiogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping Yang
- Laboratory of Animal Cell Biology and Embryology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China.,The Postdoctoral Research Station in Animal Science, College of Animal Science & Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Nisar Ahmed
- Laboratory of Animal Cell Biology and Embryology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China.,Department of Veterinary Anatomy & Histology, Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, LUAWMS, Uthal 90150, Pakistan
| | - Lingling Wang
- Laboratory of Animal Cell Biology and Embryology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Hong Chen
- Laboratory of Animal Cell Biology and Embryology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Yasir Waqas
- Laboratory of Animal Cell Biology and Embryology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Tengfei Liu
- Laboratory of Animal Cell Biology and Embryology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Abdul Haseeb
- Laboratory of Animal Cell Biology and Embryology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Nasrullah Bangulzai
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy & Histology, Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, LUAWMS, Uthal 90150, Pakistan
| | - Yufei Huang
- Laboratory of Animal Cell Biology and Embryology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Qiusheng Chen
- Laboratory of Animal Cell Biology and Embryology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
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20
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Liu T, Wang L, Chen H, Huang Y, Yang P, Ahmed N, Wang T, Liu Y, Chen Q. Molecular and Cellular Mechanisms of Apoptosis during Dissociated Spermatogenesis. Front Physiol 2017; 8:188. [PMID: 28424629 PMCID: PMC5372796 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2017.00188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2016] [Accepted: 03/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Apoptosis is a tightly controlled process by which tissues eliminate unwanted cells. Spontaneous germ cell apoptosis in testis has been broadly investigated in mammals that have an associated spermatogenesis pattern. However, the mechanism of germ cell apoptosis in seasonally breeding reptiles following a dissociated spermatogenesis has remained enigmatic. In the present study, morphological evidence has clearly confirmed the dissociated spermatogenesis pattern in Pelodiscus sinensis. TUNEL and TEM analyses presented dynamic changes and ultrastructural characteristics of apoptotic germ cells during seasonal spermatogenesis, implying that apoptosis might be one of the key mechanisms to clear degraded germ cells. Furthermore, using RNA-Seq and digital gene expression (DGE) profiling, a large number of apoptosis-related differentially expressed genes (DEGs) at different phases of spermatogenesis were identified and characterized in the testis. DGE and RT-qPCR analysis revealed that the critical anti-apoptosis genes, such as Bcl-2, BAG1, and BAG5, showed up-regulated patterns during intermediate and late spermatogenesis. Moreover, the increases in mitochondrial transmembrane potential in July and October were detected by JC-1 staining. Notably, the low protein levels of pro-apoptotic cleaved caspase-3 and CytC in cytoplasm were detected by immunohistochemistry and western blot analyses, indicating that the CytC-Caspase model might be responsible for the effects of germ cell apoptosis on seasonal spermatogenesis. These results facilitate understanding the regulatory mechanisms of apoptosis during spermatogenesis and uncovering the biological process of the dissociated spermatogenesis system in reptiles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tengfei Liu
- Laboratory of Animal Cell Biology and Embryology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural UniversityNanjing, China
| | - Lingling Wang
- Laboratory of Animal Cell Biology and Embryology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural UniversityNanjing, China
| | - Hong Chen
- Laboratory of Animal Cell Biology and Embryology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural UniversityNanjing, China
| | - Yufei Huang
- Laboratory of Animal Cell Biology and Embryology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural UniversityNanjing, China
| | - Ping Yang
- Laboratory of Animal Cell Biology and Embryology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural UniversityNanjing, China
| | - Nisar Ahmed
- Laboratory of Animal Cell Biology and Embryology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural UniversityNanjing, China
| | - Taozhi Wang
- Laboratory of Animal Cell Biology and Embryology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural UniversityNanjing, China
| | - Yi Liu
- Laboratory of Animal Cell Biology and Embryology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural UniversityNanjing, China
| | - Qiusheng Chen
- Laboratory of Animal Cell Biology and Embryology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural UniversityNanjing, China
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Abstract
Recent discoveries on the delivery of small- and large-size molecules and organelles to the oocytes/eggs from external sources, such as surrounding somatic cells, body fluids, and sperm, change our understanding of female germ cells' (oocytes and eggs) self-containment and individuality. In this chapter, we will summarize present-day knowledge on sources and presumptive functions of different types of exogenous molecules and organelles delivered to the animal oocytes and eggs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malgorzata Kloc
- The Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX, USA. .,Department of Surgery, The Houston Methodist Hospital, 6550 Fannin St., Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
| | - Jacek Z Kubiak
- CNRS UMR 6290, Cell Cycle Group, Institute of Genetics and Development of Rennes, Rennes, France.,University of Rennes 1, Faculty of Medicine, Rennes, France.,Department of Regenerative Medicine, Military Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology (WIHE), Warsaw, Poland
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