1
|
Zhao F, Fan M, Jing Z, Zhang Y, Wang Y, Zhou C, Liu Y, Aitken RJ, Xia X. Engineered nanoparticles potentials in male reproduction. Andrology 2024. [PMID: 39120563 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2024] [Revised: 06/06/2024] [Accepted: 07/23/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The escalating prevalence of fertility problems in the aging population necessitates a comprehensive exploration of contributing factors, extending beyond environmental concerns, work-related stress, and unhealthy lifestyles. Among these, the rising incidence of testicular disorders emerges as a pivotal determinant of fertility issues. Current treatment challenges are underscored by the limitations of high-dose and frequent drug administration, coupled with substantial side effects and irreversible trauma inflicted by surgical interventions on testicular tissue. MATERIAL AND METHODS The formidable barrier posed by the blood-testis barrier compounds the complexities of treating testicular diseases, presenting a significant therapeutic obstacle. The advent of nanocarriers, with their distinctive attributes, holds promise in overcoming this impediment. These nanocarriers exhibit exceptional biocompatibility, and membrane penetration capabilities, and can strategically target the blood-testis barrier through surface ligand modification, thereby augmenting drug bioavailability and enhancing therapeutic efficacy. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION This review concentrates on the transformative potential of nanocarriers in the delivery of therapeutic agents to testicular tissue. By summarizing key applications, we illuminate the strides made in utilizing nanocarriers as a novel avenue to effectively treat testicular diseases. CONCLUSIONS Nanocarriers are critical in delivering therapeutic agents to testicular tissue.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Feifei Zhao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Mengyu Fan
- Henan Key Laboratory of Brain Targeted Bio-nanomedicine, School of Life Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, Henan, China
| | - Zhiyang Jing
- Henan Key Laboratory of Brain Targeted Bio-nanomedicine, School of Life Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, Henan, China
| | - Yanxu Zhang
- Henan Key Laboratory of Brain Targeted Bio-nanomedicine, School of Life Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, Henan, China
| | - Yanlin Wang
- Henan Key Laboratory of Brain Targeted Bio-nanomedicine, School of Life Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, Henan, China
| | - Congli Zhou
- Henan Key Laboratory of Brain Targeted Bio-nanomedicine, School of Life Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, Henan, China
| | - Yang Liu
- Henan Key Laboratory of Brain Targeted Bio-nanomedicine, School of Life Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, Henan, China
- Department of Radiotherapy and Translational Medicine Center, Huaihe Hospital of Henan University, Henan University, Kaifeng, Henan, China
| | - Robert John Aitken
- School of Environmental and Life Sciences, College of Engineering, Science and Environmental Science, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, Australia
| | - Xue Xia
- Henan Key Laboratory of Brain Targeted Bio-nanomedicine, School of Life Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, Henan, China
- Department of Radiotherapy and Translational Medicine Center, Huaihe Hospital of Henan University, Henan University, Kaifeng, Henan, China
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Yu P, Zhu C, You X, Gu W, Wang X, Wang Y, Bu R, Wang K. The combination of immune checkpoint inhibitors and antibody-drug conjugates in the treatment of urogenital tumors: a review insights from phase 2 and 3 studies. Cell Death Dis 2024; 15:433. [PMID: 38898003 PMCID: PMC11186852 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-024-06837-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2024] [Revised: 06/08/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
With the high incidence of urogenital tumors worldwide, urinary system tumors are among the top 10 most common tumors in men, with prostate cancer ranking first and bladder cancer fourth. Patients with resistant urogenital tumors often have poor prognosis. In recent years, researchers have discovered numerous specific cancer antigens, which has led to the development of several new anti-cancer drugs. Using protein analysis techniques, researchers developed immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) and antibody-conjugated drugs (ADCs) for the treatment of advanced urogenital tumors. However, tumor resistance often leads to the failure of monotherapy. Therefore, clinical trials of the combination of ICIs and ADCs have been carried out in numerous centers around the world. This article reviewed phase 2 and 3 clinical studies of ICIs, ADCs, and their combination in the treatment of urogenital tumors to highlight safe and effective methods for selecting individualized therapeutic strategies for patients. ICIs activate the immune system, whereas ADCs link monoclonal antibodies to toxins, which can achieve a synergistic effect when the two drugs are combined. This synergistic effect provides multiple advantages for the treatment of urogenital tumors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Puguang Yu
- Department of Urology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110004, China
| | - Chunming Zhu
- Department of Family Medicine, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110004, China
| | - Xiangyun You
- Department of Urology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110004, China
- Department of Urology, The First College of Clinical Medical Science, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, 443002, China
- Department of Urology, Yichang Central People's Hospital, Yichang, 443002, China
| | - Wen Gu
- Department of Oncology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110004, China
| | - Xia Wang
- Department of Urology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110004, China
| | - Yuan Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110004, China.
| | - Renge Bu
- Department of Urology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110004, China.
| | - Kefeng Wang
- Department of Urology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110004, China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Chiappalupi S, Salvadori L, Borghi M, Mancuso F, Pariano M, Riuzzi F, Luca G, Romani L, Arato I, Sorci G. Grafted Sertoli Cells Exert Immunomodulatory Non-Immunosuppressive Effects in Preclinical Models of Infection and Cancer. Cells 2024; 13:544. [PMID: 38534388 DOI: 10.3390/cells13060544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2024] [Revised: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The Sertoli cells (SeCs) of the seminiferous tubules secrete a multitude of immunoregulatory and trophic factors to provide immune protection and assist in the orderly development of germ cells. Grafts of naked or encapsulated SeCs have been proved to represent an interesting therapeutic option in a plethora of experimental models of diseases. However, whether SeCs have immunosuppressive or immunomodulatory effects, which is imperative for their clinical translatability, has not been demonstrated. We directly assessed the immunopotential of intraperitoneally grafted microencapsulated porcine SeCs (MC-SeCs) in murine models of fungal infection (Aspergillus fumigatus or Candida albicans) or cancer (Lewis lung carcinoma/LLC or B16 melanoma cells). We found that MC-SeCs (i) provide antifungal resistance with minimum inflammatory pathology through the activation of the tolerogenic aryl hydrocarbon receptor/indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase pathway; (ii) do not affect tumor growth in vivo; and (iii) reduce the LLC cell metastatic cancer spread associated with restricted Vegfr2 expression in primary tumors. Our results point to the fine immunoregulation of SeCs in the relative absence of overt immunosuppression in both infection and cancer conditions, providing additional support for the potential therapeutic use of SeC grafts in human patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sara Chiappalupi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy
- Interuniversity Institute of Myology (IIM), 06132 Perugia, Italy
- Consorzio Interuniversitario Biotecnologie (CIB), 34127 Trieste, Italy
| | - Laura Salvadori
- Interuniversity Institute of Myology (IIM), 06132 Perugia, Italy
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Piemonte Orientale, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Monica Borghi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy
| | - Francesca Mancuso
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy
| | - Marilena Pariano
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy
| | - Francesca Riuzzi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy
- Interuniversity Institute of Myology (IIM), 06132 Perugia, Italy
- Consorzio Interuniversitario Biotecnologie (CIB), 34127 Trieste, Italy
| | - Giovanni Luca
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy
- Centro Biotecnologico Internazionale di Ricerca Traslazionale ad indirizzo Endocrino, Metabolico ed Embrio-Riproduttivo (CIRTEMER), 06132 Perugia, Italy
- Centro Universitario di Ricerca sulla Genomica Funzionale (CURGeF), 06132 Perugia, Italy
| | - Luigina Romani
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy
| | - Iva Arato
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy
| | - Guglielmo Sorci
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy
- Interuniversity Institute of Myology (IIM), 06132 Perugia, Italy
- Consorzio Interuniversitario Biotecnologie (CIB), 34127 Trieste, Italy
- Centro Biotecnologico Internazionale di Ricerca Traslazionale ad indirizzo Endocrino, Metabolico ed Embrio-Riproduttivo (CIRTEMER), 06132 Perugia, Italy
- Centro Universitario di Ricerca sulla Genomica Funzionale (CURGeF), 06132 Perugia, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Hu Y, Shen M, Wang C, Huang Q, Li R, Dorj G, Gombojav E, Du J, Ren L. A meta-analysis-based adverse outcome pathway for the male reproductive toxicity induced by microplastics and nanoplastics in mammals. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 465:133375. [PMID: 38160553 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.133375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
The male reproductive toxicity of microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) has attracted great attention, but the latent mechanisms remain fragmented. This review performed the adverse outcome pathway (AOP) analysis and meta-analysis in 39 relevant studies, with the AOP analysis to reveal the cause-and-effect relationships of MPs/NPs-induced male reproductive toxicity and the meta-analysis to quantify the toxic effects. In the AOP framework, increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) is the molecular initiating event (MIE), which triggered several key events (KEs) at different levels. At the cellular level, the KEs included oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, sperm DNA damage, endoplasmic reticulum stress, apoptosis and autophagy of testicular cells, repressed expression of steroidogenic enzymes and steroidogenic acute regulatory protein, disrupted hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular (HPT) axis, and gut microbiota alteration. These KEs further induced the reduction of testosterone, impaired blood-testis barrier (BTB), testicular inflammation, and impaired spermatogenesis at tissue/organ levels. Ultimately, decreased sperm quality or quantity was noted and proved by meta-analysis, which demonstrated that MPs/NPs led to a decrease of 5.99 million/mL in sperm concentration, 14.62% in sperm motility, and 23.56% in sperm viability, while causing an increase of 10.65% in sperm abnormality rate. Overall, this is the first AOP for MPs/NPs-mediated male reproductive toxicity in mammals. The innovative integration of meta-analysis into the AOP analysis increases the rigorism of the results.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yinchu Hu
- School of Nursing, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Meidi Shen
- School of Nursing, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Chongkun Wang
- School of Nursing, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Qifang Huang
- School of Nursing, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Ruiqiong Li
- School of Nursing, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Gantuya Dorj
- School of Public Health, Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences, Ulaanbaatar 14210, Mongolia
| | - Enkhjargal Gombojav
- School of Public Health, Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences, Ulaanbaatar 14210, Mongolia
| | - Jiwei Du
- Nursing Department, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen 518040, China
| | - Lihua Ren
- School of Nursing, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Farahani H, Dehghanian AR, Khademolhosseini A, Haghshenas MR, Erfani N. Frequent expression of CD45RO memory T cell marker as well as low to high expression of PD-1 and PD-L1 inhibitory molecules in seminoma and dysgerminoma. J Reprod Immunol 2024; 161:104184. [PMID: 38171036 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2023.104184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2023] [Revised: 12/02/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Seminoma and dysgerminoma are rare testicular and ovarian germ cell tumors characterized by a significant infiltration of immune cells in the tumor microenvironment. According to the failure of conventional treatments in some patients, it is crucial to identify novel prognostic and therapeutic biomarkers for these patients. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the expression of CD45RO and PD-1/PD-L1 and investigate their association with the clinicopathological characteristics of the patients. METHODS Immunohistochemistry was performed to assess the expression of CD45RO, PD-1, and PD-L1 in tumor-infiltrated lymphocytes (TILs), and tumor cells in 33 seminoma and 31 dysgerminoma patients. The expression levels were evaluated using a semiquantitative approach, weighted histoscore, which considers both the intensity and extent of staining. RESULTS All seminoma and dysgerminoma patients exhibited CD45RO expression in TILs, with 66.7 % and 90.3 % displaying high levels of expression, respectively. PD-1 expression in TILs was observed at low levels in 81.8 % and 77.4 % and at high levels in 18.2 % and 19.4 % of seminoma and dysgerminoma patients, respectively. Likewise, low expression of PD-L1 in tumor cells was detected in 63.6 % of seminoma and 61.3 % of dysgerminoma patients, while none of the patients exhibited high expression of PD-L1. In seminoma patients, a positive correlation was observed between PD-1 expression in TILs and CD45RO expression and between PD-L1 expression in tumor cells and TILs score. CONCLUSION The frequent infiltration of CD45RO, along with variable expression of PD-1 and PD-L1 on TILs and tumor cells, could impact the effectiveness of anti-tumor responses and immunotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hadiseh Farahani
- Department of Immunology, School of medicine, Shiraz University of Medical sciences, Shiraz, Islamic Republic of Iran; Shiraz Institute for Cancer Research, School of medicine, Shiraz University of Medical sciences, Shiraz, Islamic Republic of Iran
| | - Amir Reza Dehghanian
- Pathology Department, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Islamic Republic of Iran
| | - Aida Khademolhosseini
- Shiraz Institute for Cancer Research, School of medicine, Shiraz University of Medical sciences, Shiraz, Islamic Republic of Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Haghshenas
- Shiraz Institute for Cancer Research, School of medicine, Shiraz University of Medical sciences, Shiraz, Islamic Republic of Iran.
| | - Nasrollah Erfani
- Department of Immunology, School of medicine, Shiraz University of Medical sciences, Shiraz, Islamic Republic of Iran; Shiraz Institute for Cancer Research, School of medicine, Shiraz University of Medical sciences, Shiraz, Islamic Republic of Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Klees C, Alexandri C, Demeestere I, Lybaert P. The Role of microRNA in Spermatogenesis: Is There a Place for Fertility Preservation Innovation? Int J Mol Sci 2023; 25:460. [PMID: 38203631 PMCID: PMC10778981 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25010460] [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: 11/15/2023] [Revised: 12/24/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Oncological treatments have dramatically improved over the last decade, and as a result, survival rates for cancer patients have also improved. Quality of life, including concerns about fertility, has become a major focus for both oncologists and patients. While oncologic treatments are often highly effective at suppressing neoplastic growth, they are frequently associated with severe gonadotoxicity, leading to infertility. For male patients, the therapeutic option to preserve fertility is semen cryopreservation. In prepubertal patients, immature testicular tissue can be sampled and stored to allow post-cure transplantation of the tissue, immature germ cells, or in vitro spermatogenesis. However, experimental techniques have not yet been proven effective for restoring sperm production for these patients. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have emerged as promising molecular markers and therapeutic tools in various diseases. These small regulatory RNAs possess the unique characteristic of having multiple gene targets. MiRNA-based therapeutics can, therefore, be used to modulate the expression of different genes involved in signaling pathways dysregulated by changes in the physiological environment (disease, temperature, ex vivo culture, pharmacological agents). This review discusses the possible role of miRNA as an innovative treatment option in male fertility preservation-restoration strategies and describes the diverse applications where these new therapeutic tools could serve as fertility protection agents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte Klees
- Research Laboratory on Human Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), 1070 Brussels, Belgium; (C.K.); (C.A.); (I.D.)
| | - Chrysanthi Alexandri
- Research Laboratory on Human Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), 1070 Brussels, Belgium; (C.K.); (C.A.); (I.D.)
| | - Isabelle Demeestere
- Research Laboratory on Human Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), 1070 Brussels, Belgium; (C.K.); (C.A.); (I.D.)
- Fertility Clinic, HUB-Erasme Hospital, 1070 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Pascale Lybaert
- Research Laboratory on Human Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), 1070 Brussels, Belgium; (C.K.); (C.A.); (I.D.)
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Wanjari UR, Gopalakrishnan AV. A review on immunological aspects in male reproduction: An immune cells and cytokines. J Reprod Immunol 2023; 158:103984. [PMID: 37390629 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2023.103984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 06/17/2023] [Accepted: 06/25/2023] [Indexed: 07/02/2023]
Abstract
The male reproductive system, particularly the male gamete, offers a unique barrier to the immune system. The growing germ cells in the testis need to be shielded from autoimmune damage. Hence the testis has to establish and sustain an immune-privileged milieu. Sertoli cells create this safe space, protected by the blood-testis barrier. Cytokines are a type of immune reaction that can positively and negatively affect male reproductive health. Inflammation, disease, and obesity are just a few physiological conditions for which cytokines mediate signals. They interact with steroidogenesis, shaping the adrenals and testes to produce the hormones needed for survival. In particular pathological condition, including autoimmune disorders, contains high levels of the same cytokines in semen that play an essential role in the immunomodulation of the male gonad. This review focuses on understanding the immunological role of cytokines in the control and development of male reproduction. Also, in maintaining male reproductive health and diseases linked with their aberrant function in the testis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Uddesh Ramesh Wanjari
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Bio-Sciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore, Tamil Nadu 632014, India
| | - Abilash Valsala Gopalakrishnan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Bio-Sciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore, Tamil Nadu 632014, India.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Basolo A, Poma AM, Macerola E, Bonuccelli D, Proietti A, Salvetti A, Vignali P, Torregrossa L, Evangelisti L, Sparavelli R, Giannini R, Ugolini C, Basolo F, Santini F, Toniolo A. Autopsy Study of Testicles in COVID-19: Upregulation of Immune-Related Genes and Downregulation of Testis-Specific Genes. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2023; 108:950-961. [PMID: 36260523 PMCID: PMC9620766 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgac608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Revised: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Infection by SARS-CoV-2 may be associated with testicular dysfunction that could affect male fertility. OBJECTIVE Testicles of fatal COVID-19 cases were investigated to detect virus in tissue and to evaluate histopathological and transcriptomic changes. METHODS Three groups were compared: (a) uninfected controls (subjects dying of trauma or sudden cardiac death; n = 10); (b) subjects dying of COVID-19 (virus-negative in testes; n = 15); (c) subjects dying of COVID-19 (virus-positive in testes; n = 9). SARS-CoV-2 genome and nucleocapsid antigen were probed using RT-PCR, in situ hybridization, and immunohistochemistry (IHC). Infiltrating leukocytes were typed by IHC. mRNA transcripts of immune-related and testis-specific genes were quantified using the nCounter method. RESULTS SARS-CoV-2 was detected in testis tissue of 9/24 (37%) COVID-19 cases accompanied by scattered T-cell and macrophage infiltrates. Size of testicles and counts of spermatogenic cells were not significantly different among groups. Analysis of mRNA transcripts showed that in virus-positive testes immune processes were activated (interferon-alpha and -gamma pathways). By contrast, transcription of 12 testis-specific genes was downregulated, independently of virus positivity in tissue. By IHC, expression of the luteinizing hormone/choriogonadotropin receptor was enhanced in virus-positive compared to virus-negative testicles, while expression of receptors for androgens and the follicle-stimulating hormone were not significantly different among groups. CONCLUSION In lethal COVID-19 cases, infection of testicular cells is not uncommon. Viral infection associates with activation of interferon pathways and downregulation of testis-specific genes involved in spermatogenesis. Due to the exceedingly high numbers of infected people in the pandemic, the impact of virus on fertility should be further investigated.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alessio Basolo
- Corresponding author: Alessio Basolo, MD, Obesity and Lipodystrophy Center, Endocrinology Unit, University Hospital of Pisa, 56124, Pisa, Italy, Telephone number: +39-050-997334,
| | - Anello Marcello Poma
- Department of Surgical, Medical, Molecular Pathology and Critical Area, University Hospital of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Macerola
- Department of Surgical, Medical, Molecular Pathology and Critical Area, University Hospital of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Diana Bonuccelli
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Azienda USL Toscana Nordovest, Lucca, Italy
| | - Agnese Proietti
- Department of Surgical, Medical, Molecular Pathology and Critical Area, University Hospital of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Alessandra Salvetti
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Paola Vignali
- Department of Surgical, Medical, Molecular Pathology and Critical Area, University Hospital of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Liborio Torregrossa
- Department of Surgical, Medical, Molecular Pathology and Critical Area, University Hospital of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Laura Evangelisti
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Azienda USL Toscana Nordovest, Lucca, Italy
| | - Rebecca Sparavelli
- Department of Surgical, Medical, Molecular Pathology and Critical Area, University Hospital of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Riccardo Giannini
- Department of Surgical, Medical, Molecular Pathology and Critical Area, University Hospital of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Clara Ugolini
- Department of Surgical, Medical, Molecular Pathology and Critical Area, University Hospital of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Fulvio Basolo
- Department of Surgical, Medical, Molecular Pathology and Critical Area, University Hospital of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Ferruccio Santini
- Obesity and Lipodystrophy Center, Endocrinology Unit, University Hospital of Pisa, 56124, Pisa, Italy
| | - Antonio Toniolo
- Global Virus Network, University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Feng S, Wen H, Liu K, Xiong M, Li J, Gui Y, Lv C, Zhang J, Ma X, Wang X, Yuan S. hnRNPH1 establishes Sertoli-germ cell crosstalk through cooperation with PTBP1 and AR, and is essential for male fertility in mice. Development 2023; 150:dev201040. [PMID: 36718792 DOI: 10.1242/dev.201040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Spermatogenesis depends on the crosstalk of Sertoli cells (SCs) and germ cells. However, the gene regulatory network establishing the communications between SCs and germ cells remains unclear. Here, we report that heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein H1 (hnRNPH1) in SCs is essential for the establishment of crosstalk between SCs and germ cells. Conditional knockout of hnRNPH1 in mouse SCs leads to compromised blood-testis barrier function, delayed meiotic progression, increased germ cell apoptosis, sloughing of germ cells and, eventually, infertility of mice. Mechanistically, we discovered that hnRNPH1 could interact with the splicing regulator PTBP1 in SCs to regulate the pre-mRNA alternative splicing of the target genes functionally related to cell adhesion. Interestingly, we also found hnRNPH1 could cooperate with the androgen receptor, one of the SC-specific transcription factors, to modulate the transcription level of a group of genes associated with the cell-cell junction and EGFR pathway by directly binding to the gene promoters. Collectively, our findings reveal a crucial role for hnRNPH1 in SCs during spermatogenesis and uncover a potential molecular regulatory network involving hnRNPH1 in establishing Sertoli-germ cell crosstalk.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shenglei Feng
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Hui Wen
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Kuan Liu
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Mengneng Xiong
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Jinmei Li
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Yiqian Gui
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Chunyu Lv
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Jin Zhang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Xixiang Ma
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
- Laboratory of Animal Center, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Xiaoli Wang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Shuiqiao Yuan
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
- Laboratory of Animal Center, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
- Shenzhen Huazhong University of Science and Technology Research Institute, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518057, China
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Schepisi G, Gianni C, Cursano MC, Gallà V, Menna C, Casadei C, Bleve S, Lolli C, Martinelli G, Rosti G, De Giorgi U. Immune checkpoint inhibitors and Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR)-T cell therapy: Potential treatment options against Testicular Germ Cell Tumors. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1118610. [PMID: 36860862 PMCID: PMC9968831 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1118610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Germ cell tumors (GCTs) represent a heterogeneous neoplasm family affecting gonads and rarely occurring in extragonadal areas. Most of patients have a good prognosis, often even in the presence of metastatic disease; however, in almost 15% of cases, tumor relapse and platinum resistance are the main challenges. Thus, novel treatment strategies with both improved antineoplastic activity and minor treatment-related adverse events compared with platinum are really expected. In this context, the development and the high activity demonstrated by immune checkpoint inhibitors in solid tumors and, subsequently, the interesting results obtained from the use of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR-) T cell therapy in hematological tumors, have stimulated research in this direction also in GCTs. In this article, we will analyze the molecular mechanisms underlying the immune action in the development of GCTs, and we will report the data from the studies that tested the new immunotherapeutic approaches in these neoplasms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Schepisi
- 1Department of Medical Oncology, IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo per lo Studio dei Tumori (IRST) “Dino Amadori”, Meldola, Italy,*Correspondence: Giuseppe Schepisi,
| | - Caterina Gianni
- 1Department of Medical Oncology, IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo per lo Studio dei Tumori (IRST) “Dino Amadori”, Meldola, Italy
| | - Maria Concetta Cursano
- 1Department of Medical Oncology, IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo per lo Studio dei Tumori (IRST) “Dino Amadori”, Meldola, Italy
| | - Valentina Gallà
- 2Unit of Biostatistics and Clinical Trials, IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo per lo Studio dei Tumori (IRST) “Dino Amadori”, Meldola, Italy
| | - Cecilia Menna
- 1Department of Medical Oncology, IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo per lo Studio dei Tumori (IRST) “Dino Amadori”, Meldola, Italy
| | - Chiara Casadei
- 1Department of Medical Oncology, IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo per lo Studio dei Tumori (IRST) “Dino Amadori”, Meldola, Italy
| | - Sara Bleve
- 1Department of Medical Oncology, IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo per lo Studio dei Tumori (IRST) “Dino Amadori”, Meldola, Italy
| | - Cristian Lolli
- 1Department of Medical Oncology, IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo per lo Studio dei Tumori (IRST) “Dino Amadori”, Meldola, Italy
| | - Giovanni Martinelli
- 1Department of Medical Oncology, IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo per lo Studio dei Tumori (IRST) “Dino Amadori”, Meldola, Italy
| | - Giovanni Rosti
- 1Department of Medical Oncology, IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo per lo Studio dei Tumori (IRST) “Dino Amadori”, Meldola, Italy
| | - Ugo De Giorgi
- 1Department of Medical Oncology, IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo per lo Studio dei Tumori (IRST) “Dino Amadori”, Meldola, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Washburn RL, Dufour JM. Complementing Testicular Immune Regulation: The Relationship between Sertoli Cells, Complement, and the Immune Response. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24043371. [PMID: 36834786 PMCID: PMC9965741 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24043371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Revised: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Sertoli cells within the testis are instrumental in providing an environment for spermatogenesis and protecting the developing germ cells from detrimental immune responses which could affect fertility. Though these immune responses consist of many immune processes, this review focuses on the understudied complement system. Complement consists of 50+ proteins including regulatory proteins, immune receptors, and a cascade of proteolytic cleavages resulting in target cell destruction. In the testis, Sertoli cells protect the germ cells from autoimmune destruction by creating an immunoregulatory environment. Most studies on Sertoli cells and complement have been conducted in transplantation models, which are effective in studying immune regulation during robust rejection responses. In grafts, Sertoli cells survive activated complement, have decreased deposition of complement fragments, and express many complement inhibitors. Moreover, the grafts have delayed infiltration of immune cells and contain increased infiltration of immunosuppressive regulatory T cells as compared to rejecting grafts. Additionally, anti-sperm antibodies and lymphocyte infiltration have been detected in up to 50% and 30% of infertile testes, respectively. This review seeks to provide an updated overview of the complement system, describe its relationship with immune cells, and explain how Sertoli cells may regulate complement in immunoprotection. Identifying the mechanism Sertoli cells use to protect themselves and germ cells against complement and immune destruction is relevant for male reproduction, autoimmunity, and transplantation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rachel L Washburn
- Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79424, USA
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79424, USA
| | - Jannette M Dufour
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79424, USA
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Corpuz-Hilsabeck M, Culty M. Impact of endocrine disrupting chemicals and pharmaceuticals on Sertoli cell development and functions. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1095894. [PMID: 36793282 PMCID: PMC9922725 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1095894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Sertoli cells play essential roles in male reproduction, from supporting fetal testis development to nurturing male germ cells from fetal life to adulthood. Dysregulating Sertoli cell functions can have lifelong adverse effects by jeopardizing early processes such as testis organogenesis, and long-lasting processes such as spermatogenesis. Exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) is recognized as contributing to the rising incidence of male reproductive disorders and decreasing sperm counts and quality in humans. Some drugs also act as endocrine disruptors by exerting off-target effects on endocrine tissues. However, the mechanisms of toxicity of these compounds on male reproduction at doses compatible with human exposure are still not fully resolved, especially in the case of mixtures, which remain understudied. This review presents first an overview of the mechanisms regulating Sertoli cell development, maintenance, and functions, and then surveys what is known on the impact of EDCs and drugs on immature Sertoli cells, including individual compounds and mixtures, and pinpointing at knowledge gaps. Performing more studies on the impact of mixtures of EDCs and drugs at all ages is crucial to fully understand the adverse outcomes these chemicals may induce on the reproductive system.
Collapse
|
13
|
Cai Z, Zhang Y, Yang L, Ma C, Fei Y, Ding J, Song W, Tong WM, Niu Y, Li H. ALKBH5 in mouse testicular Sertoli cells regulates Cdh2 mRNA translation to maintain blood-testis barrier integrity. Cell Mol Biol Lett 2022; 27:101. [PMID: 36418936 PMCID: PMC9682758 DOI: 10.1186/s11658-022-00404-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND RNA N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is involved in mammalian spermatogenesis. In both germ cells and Leydig cells, ALKBH5 regulates spermatogenesis and androgen synthesis in an m6A-dependent manner. However, it is unclear whether ALKBH5 plays a role in testicular Sertoli cells, which constitute the blood-testis barrier (BTB) through cell junctions between adjacent Sertoli cells. METHODS ALKBH5 expression in the testes of humans and mice was detected by immunohistochemical staining and immunofluorescence staining. BTB integrity was evaluated by BTB assay. m6A-seq was performed to screen for BTB-related molecules regulated by ALKBH5. m6A immunoprecipitation-quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), RNA immunoprecipitation-qPCR, western blot, coimmunoprecipitation, and polysome fractionation-qPCR analyses were performed to explore the mechanisms of ALKBH5 in BTB. Transmission electron microscopy was applied to observe the BTB ultrastructure. RESULTS ALKBH5 in Sertoli cells is related to the integrity of the BTB. Subsequently, the m6A level on Cdh2 mRNA, encoding a structural protein N-cadherin in the BTB, was found to be regulated by ALKBH5. IGF2BP1/2/3 complexes and YTHDF1 promoted Cdh2 mRNA translation. In addition, we found that basal endoplasmic specialization, in which N-cadherin is a main structural protein, was severely disordered in the testes of Alkbh5-knockout mice. CONCLUSIONS Our study revealed that ALKBH5 regulates BTB integrity via basal endoplasmic specialization by affecting Cdh2 mRNA translation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhonglin Cai
- grid.506261.60000 0001 0706 7839Department of Urology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China ,grid.506261.60000 0001 0706 7839Department of Pathology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China ,grid.16821.3c0000 0004 0368 8293Department of Urology, Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yao Zhang
- grid.506261.60000 0001 0706 7839Department of Pathology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Lin Yang
- grid.506261.60000 0001 0706 7839Department of Pathology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Chunhui Ma
- grid.506261.60000 0001 0706 7839Department of Pathology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yi Fei
- grid.506261.60000 0001 0706 7839Department of Pathology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Jing Ding
- grid.506261.60000 0001 0706 7839Department of Pathology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Song
- grid.506261.60000 0001 0706 7839Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Wei-Min Tong
- grid.506261.60000 0001 0706 7839Department of Pathology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China ,grid.506261.60000 0001 0706 7839Molecular Pathology Research Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yamei Niu
- grid.506261.60000 0001 0706 7839Department of Pathology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China ,grid.506261.60000 0001 0706 7839Molecular Pathology Research Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Hongjun Li
- grid.506261.60000 0001 0706 7839Department of Urology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Stepanov YK, Speidel JD, Herrmann C, Schmid N, Behr R, Köhn FM, Stöckl JB, Pickl U, Trottmann M, Fröhlich T, Mayerhofer A, Welter H. Profound Effects of Dexamethasone on the Immunological State, Synthesis and Secretion Capacity of Human Testicular Peritubular Cells. Cells 2022; 11:cells11193164. [PMID: 36231125 PMCID: PMC9562650 DOI: 10.3390/cells11193164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Revised: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The functions of human testicular peritubular cells (HTPCs), forming a small compartment located between the seminiferous epithelium and the interstitial areas of the testis, are not fully known but go beyond intratesticular sperm transport and include immunological roles. The expression of the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) indicates that they may be regulated by glucocorticoids (GCs). Herein, we studied the consequences of the GC dexamethasone (Dex) in cultured HTPCs, which serves as a unique window into the human testis. We examined changes in cytokines, mainly by qPCR and ELISA. A holistic mass-spectrometry-based proteome analysis of cellular and secreted proteins was also performed. Dex, used in a therapeutic concentration, decreased the transcript level of proinflammatory cytokines, e.g., IL6, IL8 and MCP1. An siRNA-mediated knockdown of GR reduced the actions on IL6. Changes in IL6 were confirmed by ELISA measurements. Of note, Dex also lowered GR levels. The proteomic results revealed strong responses after 24 h (31 significantly altered cellular proteins) and more pronounced ones after 72 h of Dex exposure (30 less abundant and 42 more abundant cellular proteins). Dex also altered the composition of the secretome (33 proteins decreased, 13 increased) after 72 h. Among the regulated proteins were extracellular matrix (ECM) and basement membrane components (e.g., FBLN2, COL1A2 and COL3A1), as well as PTX3 and StAR. These results pinpoint novel, profound effects of Dex in HTPCs. If transferrable to the human testis, changes specifically in ECM and the immunological state of the testis may occur in men upon treatment with Dex for medical reasons.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Jan Dominik Speidel
- Biomedical Center, Cell Biology, Anatomy III, Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig Maximilian University Munich, 82152 Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | - Carola Herrmann
- Biomedical Center, Cell Biology, Anatomy III, Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig Maximilian University Munich, 82152 Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | - Nina Schmid
- Biomedical Center, Cell Biology, Anatomy III, Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig Maximilian University Munich, 82152 Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | - Rüdiger Behr
- Platform Degenerative Diseases, German Primate Center, Leibniz Institute for Primate Research, 37077 Göttingen, Germany
| | | | - Jan Bernd Stöckl
- Laboratory for Functional Genome Analysis LAFUGA, Gene Center, LMU München, 81377 München, Germany
| | | | | | - Thomas Fröhlich
- Laboratory for Functional Genome Analysis LAFUGA, Gene Center, LMU München, 81377 München, Germany
| | - Artur Mayerhofer
- Biomedical Center, Cell Biology, Anatomy III, Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig Maximilian University Munich, 82152 Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
- Correspondence: (A.M.); (H.W.); Tel.: +49-89218075859 (A.M.); +49-89218071882 (H.W.)
| | - Harald Welter
- Biomedical Center, Cell Biology, Anatomy III, Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig Maximilian University Munich, 82152 Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
- Correspondence: (A.M.); (H.W.); Tel.: +49-89218075859 (A.M.); +49-89218071882 (H.W.)
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Cai H, Cao X, Qin D, Liu Y, Liu Y, Hua J, Peng S. Gut microbiota supports male reproduction via nutrition, immunity, and signaling. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:977574. [PMID: 36060736 PMCID: PMC9434149 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.977574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Gut microbiota (GM) is a major component of the gastrointestinal tract. Growing evidence suggests that it has various effects on many distal organs including the male reproductive system in mammals. GM and testis form the gut-testis axis involving the production of key molecules through microbial metabolism or de novo synthesis. These molecules have nutrition, immunity, and hormone-related functions and promote the male reproductive system via the circulatory system. GM helps maintain the integral structure of testes and regulates testicular immunity to protect the spermatogenic environment. Factors damaging GM negatively impact male reproductive function, however, the related mechanism is unknown. Also, the correlation between GM and testis remains to be yet investigated. This review discusses the complex influence of GM on the male reproductive system highlighting the impact on male fertility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hui Cai
- Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering and Technology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xuanhong Cao
- Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering and Technology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Shaanxi, China
| | - Dezhe Qin
- State Key Laboratory for Molecular and Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yundie Liu
- Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering and Technology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yang Liu
- Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering and Technology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Shaanxi, China
| | - Jinlian Hua
- Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering and Technology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Shaanxi, China
| | - Sha Peng
- Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering and Technology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Shaanxi, China
- *Correspondence: Sha Peng,
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Skowron MA, Eul K, Stephan A, Ludwig GF, Wakileh GA, Bister A, Söhngen C, Raba K, Petzsch P, Poschmann G, Kuffour EO, Degrandi D, Ali S, Wiek C, Hanenberg H, Münk C, Stühler K, Köhrer K, Mass E, Nettersheim D. Profiling the 3D interaction between germ cell tumors and microenvironmental cells at the transcriptome and secretome level. Mol Oncol 2022; 16:3107-3127. [PMID: 35811571 PMCID: PMC9441004 DOI: 10.1002/1878-0261.13282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2022] [Revised: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment (TM), consisting of the extracellular matrix (ECM), fibroblasts, endothelial cells and immune cells, might affect tumor invasiveness and the outcome of standard chemotherapy. This study investigated the cross-talk between germ cell tumors (GCT) and surrounding TM cells (macrophages, T-lymphocytes, endothelial cells, fibroblasts) at the transcriptome and secretome level. Using high-throughput approaches of three-dimensional (3D) co-cultured cellular aggregates, this study offers newly identified pathways to be studied with regard to sensitivity towards cisplatin-based chemotherapy or tumor invasiveness as a consequence of the cross-talk between tumor cells and TM components. Mass-spectrometry-based secretome analyses revealed that TM cells secreted factors involved in ECM organization, cell adhesion, angiogenesis and regulation of insulin-like growth factor (IGF) transport. To evaluate direct cell-cell contacts, green fluorescent protein (GFP)-expressing GCT cells and mCherry-expressing TM cells were co-cultured in 3D. Afterwards, cell populations were separated by flow cytometry and analyzed by RNA-sequencing. Correlating the secretome with transcriptome data indicated molecular processes such as cell adhesion and components of the ECM being enriched in most cell populations. Re-analyses of secretome data with regard to lysine- and proline-hydroxylated peptides revealed a gain in proteins, such as collagens and fibronectin. Cultivation of GCT cells on collagen I/IV- or fibronectin-coated plates significantly elevated adhesive and migratory capacity, while decreasing cisplatin sensitivity of GCT cells. Correspondingly, cisplatin sensitivity was significantly reduced in GCT cells under the influence of conditioned medium from fibroblasts and endothelial cells. This study sheds light on the cross-talk between GCT cells and their circumjacent TM, which results in deposition of the ECM and eventually promotes a pro-tumorigenic environment through enhanced migratory and adhesive capacity, as well as decreased cisplatin sensitivity. Hence, our observations indicate that targeting the ECM and its cellular components might be a novel therapeutic option in combination with cisplatin-based chemotherapy for GCT patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Margaretha A Skowron
- Department of Urology, Urological Research Laboratory, Translational UroOncology, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Katharina Eul
- Department of Urology, Urological Research Laboratory, Translational UroOncology, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Alexa Stephan
- Department of Urology, Urological Research Laboratory, Translational UroOncology, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Gillian F Ludwig
- Department of Urology, Urological Research Laboratory, Translational UroOncology, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Gamal A Wakileh
- Department of Urology, Urological Research Laboratory, Translational UroOncology, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany.,Department of Urology and Paediatric Urology, University Hospital Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Arthur Bister
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Head/Neck Surgery, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Christian Söhngen
- Department of Urology, Urological Research Laboratory, Translational UroOncology, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Katharina Raba
- Institute for Transplantation Diagnostics and Cell Therapeutics, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Patrick Petzsch
- Genomics and Transcriptomics Laboratory, Biological and Medical Research Centre (BMFZ), Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Gereon Poschmann
- Molecular Proteomics Laboratory, Biological and Medical Research Centre (BMFZ), Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Edmund Osei Kuffour
- Clinic for Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Infectious Diseases, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Daniel Degrandi
- Institute of Medical Microbiology and Hospital Hygiene, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Shafaqat Ali
- Institute of Medical Microbiology and Hospital Hygiene, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Constanze Wiek
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Head/Neck Surgery, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Helmut Hanenberg
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Head/Neck Surgery, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany.,Department of Pediatrics III, University Children's Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Carsten Münk
- Clinic for Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Infectious Diseases, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Kai Stühler
- Molecular Proteomics Laboratory, Biological and Medical Research Centre (BMFZ), Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Karl Köhrer
- Genomics and Transcriptomics Laboratory, Biological and Medical Research Centre (BMFZ), Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Elvira Mass
- Life and Medical Sciences (LIMES) Institute, Developmental Biology of the Immune System, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Daniel Nettersheim
- Department of Urology, Urological Research Laboratory, Translational UroOncology, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Liang D, Sun Q, Zhu Z, Wang C, Ye S, Li Z, Wang Y. Xenotransplantation of Human Spermatogonia Into Various Mouse Recipient Models. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:883314. [PMID: 35676935 PMCID: PMC9168328 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.883314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Spermatogonial stem cells are the foundation of continuous spermatogenesis in adult mammals. Xenograft models have been established to define human SSCs, mostly using infertile and immune-deficient mice as the recipients for human germ cell transplantation. However, it is time-consuming to prepare such recipients using irradiation or chemotherapeutic agents, and this approach may also introduce confounding factors when residual endogenous germ cells recover in transplanted recipients. It remains to be determined whether immune-competent genetically infertile mice can be suitable recipients for xenotransplantation. In this study, we observed similar engraftment efficiencies when using spermatogonia from human biopsied testes across immune-deficient nude mice, immune-competent ICR mice, and genetically infertile Kitw/w-v mice, suggesting minimal immunological rejection from immune-competent mouse recipients upon xenotransplantation of human germ cells. More importantly, we derived EpCAM negative and TNAP positive spermatogonia-like cells (SLCs) from human pluripotent stem cells (PSCs), which highly expressed spermatogonial markers including PLZF, INTERGRINα6, TKTL1, CD90, and DRMT3. We found that upon transplantation, these SLCs proliferated and colonized at the basal membrane of seminiferous tubules in testes of both immune-deficient nude mice and Kitw/w-v mice, though complete spermatogenesis would likely require supporting human signaling factors and microenvironment. Taken together, our study functionally defined the cell identity of PSC-derived SLCs, and supported xenotransplantation using genetically infertile recipients as a convenient model for functionally evaluating spermatogonia derived from different species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dongli Liang
- Laboratory Animal Center, Instrumental Analysis Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qi Sun
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zijue Zhu
- Department of Andrology, The Center for Men’s Health, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Chuanyun Wang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Shicheng Ye
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zheng Li
- Department of Andrology, The Center for Men’s Health, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Yuan Wang, ; Zheng Li,
| | - Yuan Wang
- Department of Animal Sciences, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States
- *Correspondence: Yuan Wang, ; Zheng Li,
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Pröbstl C, Umbach A, Beineke A, Körber H, Goericke-Pesch S. Immune cell characterization in spontaneous autoimmune orchitis in dogs. Theriogenology 2022; 187:219-226. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2022.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Revised: 05/07/2022] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
|
19
|
Nagahori K, Kuramasu M, Kawata S, Yakura T, Li Z, Hirai S, Qu N, Itoh M. GIT1 is an untolerized autoantigen involved in immunologic disturbance of spermatogenesis. Histochem Cell Biol 2022; 157:309-319. [DOI: 10.1007/s00418-021-02061-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
|
20
|
Azizi H, Niazi Tabar A, Skutella T. Successful transplantation of spermatogonial stem cells into the seminiferous tubules of busulfan-treated mice. Reprod Health 2021; 18:189. [PMID: 34556135 PMCID: PMC8461838 DOI: 10.1186/s12978-021-01242-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2020] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) in the testis are crucial for transferring genetic information to the next generation. Successful transplantation of SSCs to infertile men is an advanced therapeutic application in reproductive biology research. Methods In this experimental research, both in vitro and in vivo characterization of undifferentiated and differentiated SSCs were performed by morphology—immunocytochemistry (ICC), immunohistochemistry (IMH), Fluidigm Real-Time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and flow cytometry analysis. The isolated SSCs were finally microinjected into the rete testis of busulfan-treated mice. The compact undifferentiated and more loosely connected round differentiated SSCs were isolated during testicular cell expansion from their specific feeder layer. Results ICC analysis indicated high and low expression levels of Zbtb16 in undifferentiated and differentiated germ cells. Also, IMH analysis showed different expression levels of Zbtb16 in the two different germ stem cell populations of the testicular tissue. While Fluidigm RT-PCR analysis indicated overexpression of the TAF4B germ cell gene, the expression of DAZL, VASA, and Zbtb16 were down-regulated during the differentiation of SSCs (P < 0.05). Also, flow cytometry analysis confirmed the significant downregulation of Itgb1 and Itga4 during differentiation. By transplantation of SSCs into busulfan-treated NOD/SCID mice, GFP-labeled sperm cells developed. Conclusions In the current study, we performed a transplantation technique that could be useful for the future microinjection of SSCs during infertility treatment and for studying in vivo differentiation of SSCs into sperm. Spermatogonia (SSCs) in the testis transmit genetic information to the next generation. Successful SSC transplantation into infertile men is an advanced therapeutic application in reproductive biology research. In this experimental research, both in vitro and in vivo characterization of undifferentiated and differentiated SSCs were performed by morphology—immunocytochemistry (ICC), immunohistochemistry (IMH), Fluidigm Real-Time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and flow cytometry analysis. The isolated SSCs were finally microinjected into the rete testis of busulfan-treated mice. ICC analysis indicated high and low expression levels of Zbtb16 in undifferentiated and differentiated germ cells. IMH analysis showed different expression levels of Zbtb16 in both populations. Fluidigm RT-PCR analysis indicated overexpression of the TAF4B germ cell gene and the down-regulated expression of DAZL, VASA, and Zbtb16 during SSCs differentiation of (P < 0.05). Flow cytometry analysis confirmed the significant downregulation of Itgb1 and Itga4 during differentiation. By transplantation of SSCs into busulfan-treated NOD/SCID mice, GFP-labeled sperm cells developed. We performed a transplantation technique that could be useful for the future microinjection of SSCs during infertility treatment and for studying in vivo differentiation of SSCs into sperm. Data analysis confirmed that zbtb16 is expressed in the undifferentiated germ cells located on the basal membrane of seminiferous tubules and SSCs in vitro. Also, spermatogenesis was resumed, and fertility improved after transplantation of undifferentiated cells into busulfan-treated mice; thus, improvements in vitro SSCs transplantation, isolation and culture would be helpful in future clinical treatments to solve the reproductive problems of families influenced by infertility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hossein Azizi
- Faculty of Biotechnology, Amol University of Special Modern Technologies, P.O. Box 46168-49767, Amol, Iran.
| | - Amirreza Niazi Tabar
- Faculty of Biotechnology, Amol University of Special Modern Technologies, P.O. Box 46168-49767, Amol, Iran
| | - Thomas Skutella
- Institute for Anatomy and Cell Biology, Medical Faculty, University of Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 307, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Hu SQ, Liu DL, Li CR, Xu YH, Hu K, Cui LD, Guo J. Wuzi-Yanzong prescription alleviates spermatogenesis disorder induced by heat stress dependent on Akt, NF-κB signaling pathway. Sci Rep 2021; 11:18824. [PMID: 34552120 PMCID: PMC8458393 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-98036-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 08/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Akt and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) signaling pathways are involved in germ cell apoptosis and inflammation after testicular heat stress (THS). We observed that after THS induced by the exposure of rat testes to 43 °C for 20 min, their weight decreased, the fraction of apoptotic testicular germ cells significantly increased, and the proliferation of germ cells was inhibited. In addition, THS lowered serum testosterone (T) level, whereas the levels of follicle stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone were not significantly changed. The ultrastructure of the seminiferous tubules became abnormal after THS, the structure of the blood-testis barrier (BTB) became loose, and the Sertoli cells showed a trend of differentiation. The level of phosphorylated Akt was reduced, whereas the amount of phosphorylated NF-κB p65 was augmented by THS. Wuzi-Yanzong (WZYZ), a classic Chinese medicine prescription for the treatment of male reproductive dysfunctions, alleviated the changes induced by THS. In order to determine the mechanism of action of WZYZ, we investigated how this preparation modulated the levels of T, androgen receptor (AR), erythropoietin (EPO), EPO receptor, and Tyro-3, Axl, and Mer (TAM) family of tyrosine kinase receptors. We found that WZYZ activated the Akt pathway, inhibited the Toll-like receptor/MyD88/NF-κB pathway, and repaired the structure of BTB by regulating the levels of T, AR, TAM receptors, and EPO. In conclusion, these results suggest that WZYZ activates the Akt pathway and inhibits the NF-κB pathway by acting on the upstream regulators, thereby improving spermatogenesis deficit induced by THS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Su-Qin Hu
- grid.24695.3c0000 0001 1431 9176Department of Physiology, College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 11, East Beisanhuan Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing, China
| | - Dian-Long Liu
- grid.24695.3c0000 0001 1431 9176Department of Physiology, College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 11, East Beisanhuan Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing, China
| | - Chun-Rui Li
- grid.24695.3c0000 0001 1431 9176Department of Physiology, College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 11, East Beisanhuan Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing, China
| | - Ya-Hui Xu
- grid.24695.3c0000 0001 1431 9176Department of Physiology, College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 11, East Beisanhuan Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing, China
| | - Ke Hu
- grid.24695.3c0000 0001 1431 9176Department of Physiology, College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 11, East Beisanhuan Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing, China
| | - Li-Dan Cui
- grid.24695.3c0000 0001 1431 9176Department of Physiology, College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 11, East Beisanhuan Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing, China
| | - Jian Guo
- grid.24695.3c0000 0001 1431 9176Department of Physiology, College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 11, East Beisanhuan Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
MiRNA-34c Regulates Bovine Sertoli Cell Proliferation, Gene Expression, and Apoptosis by Targeting the AXL Gene. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11082393. [PMID: 34438849 PMCID: PMC8388803 DOI: 10.3390/ani11082393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Revised: 07/31/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Fertility is one of the essential reproduction traits of bulls, and accurate prediction of fertility potential using a semen sample from a donor bull for artificial insemination is crucial to achieve consistently high reproductive efficiency. Somatic cells, such as Sertoli cells and Leydig cells, are important in testis formation and provide a nurturing and regulatory environment for spermatogenesis. Furthermore, it was suggested that non-coding RNAs, such as microRNAs, long non-coding RNAs, circular RNAs, and Piwi-interacting RNA, function as important regulators of gene expression at post-transcriptional level in spermatogenesis. In this study, microRNA-34c was verified to specifically regulate the AXL gene by targeting a sequence in the 3’ UTR; miRNA-34c can also influence the proliferation, apoptosis, and relative abundance of the transcript of male-reproduction-related genes. Therefore, microRNA-34c can be considered an essential regulator in the process of bull spermatogenesis. These results identify a key microRNA and functional genes in the process of cattle male reproduction, providing useful information for future marker-assisted selection of bulls with excellent sperm quality. Abstract MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play significant roles in mammalian spermatogenesis. Sertoli cells can provide a stable microenvironment and nutritional factors for germ cells, thus playing a vital role in spermatogenesis. However, few studies elucidate the regulation of bovine testicular Sertoli cells by miRNAs. Here, we have reported that miRNA-34c (miR-34c) regulates proliferation, apoptosis, and relative transcripts abundance gene in bovine Sertoli cells. In bovine Sertoli cells, overexpression of miR-34c inhibited proliferation and relative abundance of gene transcripts while promoting apoptosis of Sertoli cells, and the effects were the opposite when miR-34c was knocked down. Receptor tyrosine kinase (AXL) was identified as a direct target gene of miR-34c in Sertoli cells, validated by analysis of the relative abundance of AXL transcript and dual-luciferase reporter assay. The relative abundance of the transcript of genes related to male reproduction in Sertoli cells was changed after the AXL gene was overexpressed, as demonstrated by the RT2 Profiler PCR Array results. In summary, miR-34c specifically regulated the AXL gene by targeting a sequence in the 3′-UTR, which could influence proliferation, apoptosis, and relative abundance of the transcript of male reproduction-related genes. Therefore, miR-34c could be considered an essential regulator in the process of bull spermatogenesis.
Collapse
|
23
|
Ye L, Huang W, Liu S, Cai S, Hong L, Xiao W, Thiele K, Zeng Y, Song M, Diao L. Impacts of Immunometabolism on Male Reproduction. Front Immunol 2021; 12:658432. [PMID: 34367130 PMCID: PMC8334851 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.658432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The physiological process of male reproduction relies on the orchestration of neuroendocrine, immune, and energy metabolism. Spermatogenesis is controlled by the hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular (HPT) axis, which modulates the production of gonadal steroid hormones in the testes. The immune cells and cytokines in testes provide a protective microenvironment for the development and maturation of germ cells. The metabolic cellular responses and processes in testes provide energy production and biosynthetic precursors to regulate germ cell development and control testicular immunity and inflammation. The metabolism of immune cells is crucial for both inflammatory and anti-inflammatory responses, which supposes to affect the spermatogenesis in testes. In this review, the role of immunometabolism in male reproduction will be highlighted. Obesity, metabolic dysfunction, such as type 2 diabetes mellitus, are well documented to impact male fertility; thus, their impacts on the immune cells distributed in testes will also be discussed. Finally, the potential significance of the medicine targeting the specific metabolic intermediates or immune metabolism checkpoints to improve male reproduction will also be reassessed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lijun Ye
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology of Peri-implantation, Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Wensi Huang
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology of Peri-implantation, Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Su Liu
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology of Peri-implantation, Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Songchen Cai
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology of Peri-implantation, Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Ling Hong
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology of Peri-implantation, Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Weiqiang Xiao
- Shenzhen Zhongshan Institute for Reproduction and Genetics, Fertility Center, Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Kristin Thiele
- Division of Experimental Feto-Maternal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Yong Zeng
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology of Peri-implantation, Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Mingzhe Song
- Shenzhen Zhongshan Institute for Reproduction and Genetics, Fertility Center, Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Lianghui Diao
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology of Peri-implantation, Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is a complex and elaborate differentiation process and is vital for male fertility. Sertoli cells play a major role in fertility and induce spermatogenesis by protecting, nourishing, and supporting germ cells. It has been speculated that severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) could directly affect the male reproductive system, and therefore heredity and fertility. The similarity of SARS-CoV-2 to SARS-CoV could confirm this hypothesis because both viruses use angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE2) as the receptor to enter human cells. ACE2 is expressed by Sertoli cells and other testicular cells, therefore COVID-19 has the potential to impair fertility by destroying Sertoli cells. This hypothesis should be evaluated and confirmed by monitoring fertility in patients with COVID-19.
Collapse
|
25
|
Li T, Wang X, Luo R, An X, Zhang Y, Zhao X, Ma Y. Integrating miRNA and mRNA Profiling to Assess the Potential miRNA-mRNA Modules Linked With Testicular Immune Homeostasis in Sheep. Front Vet Sci 2021; 8:647153. [PMID: 34113669 PMCID: PMC8185144 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.647153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2020] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Beyond its well-known role in spermatogenesis and androgen production, mammalian testes are increasingly recognized as an immune-privileged organ for protecting autoantigenic germ cells, especially meiotic and postmeiotic germ cells, from systemic immune responses. Despite its importance, the molecular mechanisms underlying this regulation in mammals, including sheep, are far from known. In this study, we searched for the genes associated with testicular immune privilege and assessed their possible modulating mechanisms by analyzing systematic profiling of mRNAs and miRNAs on testicular tissues derived from prepubertal and postpubertal Tibetan sheep acquired by RNA sequencing. We identified 1,118 differentially expressed (DE) mRNAs associated with immunity (245 increased mRNAs and 873 decreased mRNAs) and 715 DE miRNAs (561 increased miRNAs and 154 decreased miRNAs) in postpubertal testes compared with prepuberty. qPCR validations for 20 DE mRNAs and 16 miRNAs showed that the RNA-seq results are reliable. By using Western blot, the postpubertal testes exhibited decreased protein abundance of CD19 and TGFBR2 (two proteins encoded by DE mRNAs) when compared with prepuberty, consistent with mRNA levels. The subsequent immunofluorescent staining showed that the positive signals for the CD19 protein were observed mainly in Sertoli cells and the basement membrane of pre- and postpubertal testes, as well as the prepubertal testicular vascular endothelium. The TGFBR2 protein was found mostly in interstitial cells and germ cells of pre- and postpubertal testes. Functional enrichment analysis indicated that DE mRNAs were mainly enriched in biological processes or pathways strongly associated with the blood–testis barrier (BTB) function. Many decreased mRNAs with low expression abundance were significantly enriched in pathways related to immune response. Also, multiple key miRNA-target negative correlation regulatory networks were subsequently established. Furthermore, we verified the target associations between either oar-miR-29b or oar-miR-1185-3p and ITGB1 by dual-luciferase reporter assay. Finally, a putative schematic model of the miRNA-mRNA-pathway network mediated by immune homeostasis-related genes was proposed to show their potential regulatory roles in sheep testicular privilege. Taken together, we conclude that many immune-related genes identified in this study are negatively regulated by potential miRNAs to participate in the homeostatic regulation of testicular immune privilege of sheep by sustaining BTB function and inhibiting immune responses under normal physiological conditions. This work offers the first global view of the expression profiles of miRNAs/mRNAs involved in sheep testicular immune privilege and how the genes potentially contribute to immune-homeostatic maintenance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Taotao Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, China.,Sheep Breeding Biotechnology Engineering Laboratory of Gansu Province, Minqin, China
| | - Xia Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Ruirui Luo
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Xuejiao An
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Yong Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Xingxu Zhao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Youji Ma
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, China.,Sheep Breeding Biotechnology Engineering Laboratory of Gansu Province, Minqin, China
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Pęksa R, Kunc M, Popęda M, Piątek M, Bieńkowski M, Żok J, Starzyńska A, Perdyan A, Sowa M, Duchnowska R, Biernat W. Combined Assessment of Immune Checkpoint Regulator VISTA on Tumor-Associated Immune Cells and Platelet-to-Lymphocyte Ratio Identifies Advanced Germ Cell Tumors with Higher Risk of Unfavorable Outcomes. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13081750. [PMID: 33916925 PMCID: PMC8067539 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13081750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Revised: 03/16/2021] [Accepted: 04/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Testicular germ cell tumors (GCTs) are the most common malignancies in young males. The current treatment regimens are usually highly effective and curative. Nevertheless, a portion of patients presents with recurrence or succumbs due to the disease. There is an undoubtful necessity to investigate new prognostic markers to stratify the risk of such events. The current study aimed to evaluate the prognostic significance of markers of the tumor microenvironment and systemic inflammation markers in GCTs. We found that low expression of immune checkpoint proteins VISTA (V-domain Ig suppressor of T cell activation) and PD-L1 (programmed death-ligand 1) on tumor-associated immune cells and elevated inflammatory marker platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio are associated with a higher risk of events in testicular GCTs. It indicates a role of both local anti-tumor immune response and systemic inflammation in these tumors. Abstract In the current study, we aimed to investigate whether expression of immune checkpoint proteins (V-domain Ig suppressor of T cell activation (VISTA) and programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1)) and markers of systemic inflammation could predict progression/relapse and death in the cohort of 180 patients with testicular germ-cell tumors (GCTs). Expression of PD-L1 and VISTA was assessed by immunohistochemistry utilizing tissue microarrays. To estimate systemic inflammation neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio (LMR), and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) were calculated. We found high PD-L1 and VISTA expression on tumor-associated immune cells (TAICs) in 89 (49.44%) and 63 (37.22%) of GCTs, respectively, whereas tumor cells besides trophoblastic elements were almost uniformly negative. High PD-L1 was associated with seminomatous histology and lower stage. Relapses in stage I patients occurred predominantly in cases with low numbers of PD-L1 and VISTA-expressing TAICs. In stage II/III disease, the combination of low VISTA-expressing TAICs and high PLR was identified as predictor of shorter event-free survival (HR 4.10; 1.48–11.36, p = 0.006) and overall survival (HR 15.56, 95% CI 1.78–135.51, p = 0.001) independently of tumor histology and location of metastases. We demonstrated that the assessment of immune checkpoint proteins on TAICs may serve as a valuable prognostic factor in patients with high-risk testicular GCTs. Further study is warranted to explore the predictive utility of these biomarkers in GCTs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rafał Pęksa
- Department of Pathomorphology, Medical University of Gdansk, 80214 Gdansk, Poland; (M.K.); (M.B.); (W.B.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +48-58-349-3750
| | - Michał Kunc
- Department of Pathomorphology, Medical University of Gdansk, 80214 Gdansk, Poland; (M.K.); (M.B.); (W.B.)
| | - Marta Popęda
- Laboratory of Translational Oncology, Intercollegiate Faculty of Biotechnology, Medical University of Gdansk, 80211 Gdansk, Poland;
| | - Michał Piątek
- Department of Clinical Oncology/Chemotherapy, St Barbara Regional Specialist Hospital No 5, 41200 Sosnowiec, Poland;
| | - Michał Bieńkowski
- Department of Pathomorphology, Medical University of Gdansk, 80214 Gdansk, Poland; (M.K.); (M.B.); (W.B.)
| | - Jolanta Żok
- Department of Oncology, Regional Oncology Center in Gdansk, 80219 Gdansk, Poland;
| | - Anna Starzyńska
- Department of Oral Surgery, Medical University of Gdansk, 80211 Gdansk, Poland;
| | - Adrian Perdyan
- Student Scientific Circle of Pathomorphology, Medical University of Gdansk, 80214 Gdansk, Poland;
| | - Marek Sowa
- Department of Urology, Medical University of Gdansk, 80214 Gdansk, Poland;
| | - Renata Duchnowska
- Department of Oncology, Military Institute in Warsaw, 01755 Warsaw, Poland;
| | - Wojciech Biernat
- Department of Pathomorphology, Medical University of Gdansk, 80214 Gdansk, Poland; (M.K.); (M.B.); (W.B.)
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Barbagallo F, Calogero AE, Cannarella R, Condorelli RA, Mongioì LM, Aversa A, La Vignera S. The testis in patients with COVID-19: virus reservoir or immunization resource? Transl Androl Urol 2020; 9:1897-1900. [PMID: 33209652 PMCID: PMC7658157 DOI: 10.21037/tau-20-900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Federica Barbagallo
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Aldo E Calogero
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Rossella Cannarella
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Rosita A Condorelli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Laura M Mongioì
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Antonio Aversa
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Sandro La Vignera
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Lees JR. CD8+ T cells: The past and future of immune regulation. Cell Immunol 2020; 357:104212. [PMID: 32979764 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellimm.2020.104212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Revised: 08/16/2020] [Accepted: 09/01/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Regulation of the adaptive immune response is critical for health. Regulatory activity can be found in multiple components of the immune system, however, the focus on particular components of the immune regulatory network has left many aspects of this critical immune component understudied. Here we review the evidence for activities of CD8+ T cells in immune homeostasis and regulation of autoimmune reactivity. The heterogeneous nature of identified CD8+ cell types are examined, and common phenotypes associated with functional activities are defined. The varying types of antigen signal crucial for CD8+ T cell regulatory activity are identified and the implications of these activation pathways for control of adaptive responses is considered. Finally, the promising capacity for transgenic antigen receptor directed cytotoxicity as a mechanism for modulation of autoimmunity is detailed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jason R Lees
- Department of Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Pereira Silva G, Grangeiro VPX, de Oliveira CFD, Neto FL, Barroso DH. α1-Acid glycoprotein and seminal parameter in chronic hemodialysis patients. Urologia 2020; 88:46-49. [PMID: 31989872 DOI: 10.1177/0391560319899842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION To find out the changes in seminal quality of hemodialysis chronic renal patients, we investigated the possible relationship between seminal parameter and seminal α1-acid glycoprotein levels in chronic hemodialysis patients. METHODS Prospective study of prevalence realized in the Hemodialysis Sector of the University Hospital of the University of Brasília, between July 2016 and December 2016. Men aged 18-60 years grouped into case groups (n = 81) represented by chronic hemodialysis patients and control group (n = 20) of healthy men without clinical or laboratory signs of infection and eugonadic. We performed a spermogram, hormonal profile, and assessment of leukocytes and seminal α1-acid glycoprotein level in the semen. The most appropriate statistical test was applied to verify differences and correlations between the studied variables. RESULTS The age in case and control is similar (49.47 ± 5.55 years vs 50.53 ± 4.24 years; p = 0.060). Mean level of α1-acid glycoprotein in human seminal plasma were not significantly different between case and control (48.52 ± 4.90 mg/L vs 46.33 ± 4.29 mg/L; p = 0.10) and between normosperm and oligosperm (47.76 ± 5.15 mg/L vs 49.48 ± 4.49 mg/L; p = 0.19). Mean level of α1-acid glycoprotein in human seminal plasma in the case group, which were classified into severe, moderate, mild, and normosperm, were similar to each other (p = 0.27) and did not correlate (p > 0.05) with the analyzed seminal parameters. All participants presented normal hormonal profile. CONCLUSION Results of this study suggest that the seminal α1-acid glycoprotein levels do not help in the initial evaluation of patients with seminal parameter changes.
Collapse
|