1
|
Han H, Li J, Lei HE, Yin H, Tian L. Laparoscopic orchidopexy for the treatment of cryptorchidism in adults: a description of the technique and outcomes. BMC Urol 2024; 24:1. [PMID: 38166868 PMCID: PMC10763021 DOI: 10.1186/s12894-023-01386-4] [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: 06/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There are few studies on cryptorchidism in adults, and its treatment is still controversial. METHODS To summarize the surgical strategy and clinical efficacy of laparoscopic orchidopexy for the treatment of cryptorchidism in adults, 37 adult cryptorchidism patients were retrospectively analyzed between September 2017 and February 2022. All 37 patients underwent laparoscopic orchidopexy, of whom 33 underwent inguinal hernia repair without tension. The intraoperative procedures and surgical techniques were recorded in detail. Preoperative examination and regular postoperative review of color Doppler ultrasound, and reproductive hormone, alpha-fetoprotein, human chorionic gonadotropin, and lactate dehydrogenase levels were performed. RESULTS All testes descended successfully into the scrotum, including 25 through the inguinal route and 12 through Hesselbach's triangle route. No intraoperative or postoperative complications were observed. The follow-up time was 38.6 (± 19.4) months, and no evidence of testicular malignancy was found during the follow-up period. After analyzing the reproductive hormone levels at 1 year postoperatively in 28 patients with more than 1 year of follow-up, it was found that the patients had a significant increase in testosterone levels and a decrease in follicle-stimulating hormone levels after surgery. None of the patients showed any significant improvement in semen quality after surgery. CONCLUSION Our study suggests that laparoscopic orchidopexy is a safe and feasible surgical procedure for the treatment of cryptorchidism in adults, especially high cryptorchidism, which is difficult to treat. After comprehensive consideration, preserving the testis should be preferred for treating cryptorchidism in adults to maximize the protection of the patient's reproductive hormone secretion function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hu Han
- Department of Urology, Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, 8 Gong Ti Nan Road, Beijing, 100020, China
- Institute of Urology, Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Jiaxing Li
- Department of Urology, Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, 8 Gong Ti Nan Road, Beijing, 100020, China
- Institute of Urology, Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Hong-En Lei
- Department of Urology, Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, 8 Gong Ti Nan Road, Beijing, 100020, China
- Institute of Urology, Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Hang Yin
- Department of Urology, Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, 8 Gong Ti Nan Road, Beijing, 100020, China.
- Institute of Urology, Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
| | - Long Tian
- Department of Urology, Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, 8 Gong Ti Nan Road, Beijing, 100020, China.
- Institute of Urology, Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Aldahhan RA, Stanton PG, Ludlow H, de Kretser DM, Hedger MP. Experimental Cryptorchidism Causes Chronic Inflammation and a Progressive Decline in Sertoli Cell and Leydig Cell Function in the Adult Rat Testis. Reprod Sci 2021; 28:2916-2928. [PMID: 34008157 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-021-00616-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2020] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Cryptorchidism causes spermatogenic failure and reduced serum androgen levels, as well as testicular oedema and fibrosis, which are hallmarks of inflammation. However, the role of inflammation and the effects of cryptorchidism on Sertoli cell and Leydig cell function at the molecular level remain ill-defined. Bilateral cryptorchidism was surgically induced in adult rats for 7 and 14 weeks. Testis weights decreased to 40% of normal within 7 weeks, due to loss of all developing spermatogenic cells except spermatogonia, but did not decrease further at 14 weeks. Serum FSH and LH were increased at both time points, consistent with a loss of feedback by inhibin and testosterone. This damage was accompanied by progressive accumulation of interstitial fluid and peritubular fibrosis, and a progressive decline of several critical Sertoli cell genes (Sox9, Inha (inhbin α-subunit), Cldn11 (claudin 11), Gja1 (connexin 43), and Il1a (interleukin-1α)) and the Leydig cell steroidogenic enzymes, Cyp11a1, Hsd3b1, and Hs17b3. Activin B and the activin-binding protein, follistatin, also declined, but the intratesticular concentration of activin A, which is a regulator of inflammatory responses, was largely unaffected at either time point. Expression of genes involved in inflammation (Tnf, Il10, Il1b, Mcp1) and fibrosis (Acta2, Col1a1) were considerably elevated at both time points. These data indicate that induction of experimental cryptorchidism, which causes complete failure of spermatogenesis in the adult rat, also induces chronic testicular inflammation, manifesting in oedema and fibrosis, and a progressive decline of Sertoli and Leydig cell gene expression and function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rashid A Aldahhan
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia. .,Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia. .,Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, P.O. Box 2114, Dammam, 31541, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Peter G Stanton
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - David M de Kretser
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Mark P Hedger
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Yimpring N, Roytrakul S, Jaresitthikunchai J, Phaonakrop N, Krobthong S, Suriyaphol G. Proteomic profiles of unilateral cryptorchidism in pigs at different ages using MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry and in-gel digestion coupled with mass spectrometry (GeLC-MS/MS) approaches. BMC Vet Res 2020; 16:373. [PMID: 33008399 PMCID: PMC7532586 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-020-02591-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2019] [Accepted: 09/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Cryptorchidism is a condition that occurs when one or both testes fail to descend into the scrotum. It is a common congenital disorder, causing economic loss in pig production. However, there have been only limited studies of differential protein expression profiles in undescended testes (UDTs) in the abdomen and descended testes (DTs) in cryptorchid pigs, especially at the peptidome and proteome levels. The present study aimed to analyze the peptidome of UDTs and DTs in unilateral cryptorchid pigs aged 1–2, 6, 15 and 20 weeks and in normal testes of healthy pigs aged 1–2 and 12 weeks, using peptide mass fingerprinting and three-dimensional principal component analysis (3D-PCA) with matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry, and to identify potential protein candidates, using in-gel digestion coupled with mass spectrometry (GeLC-MS/MS). Western blot analysis was used to verify protein expression. Protein sequence was affirmed by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry. Results A PCA plot showed a discrete cluster for each sample group. Peptide mass fingerprints (PMFs) demonstrated unique peptide fragments in UDTs at different ages. A number of markedly expressed proteins from GeLC-MS/MS were identified, including the multifunctional tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily member 18 (TNFRSF18), in DTs at 1–2 and 6 weeks and in UDTs at 15 and 20 weeks of age. Using western blot analysis, high expression of TNFRSF18 was observed in the UDTs at 15 weeks. Using the STITCH database, this protein was found to be related to apoptosis, corresponding to the previous report in the UDTs at the same age. Conclusions The present study revealed the specific PMFs and clusters for porcine cryptorchidism, and a novel protein, TNFRSF18, associated with the disease mechanism. These results could provide further insights into the pathogenesis of the disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nathamon Yimpring
- Biochemistry Unit, Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, 39 Henri-Dunant Road, Wangmai, Pathumwan, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
| | - Sittiruk Roytrakul
- Proteomics Research Laboratory, National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (BIOTEC), National Science and Technology Development Agency, 113 Thailand Science Park, Phahonyothin Road, Khlong Nueng, Khlong Luang, Pathum Thani, 12120, Thailand
| | - Janthima Jaresitthikunchai
- Proteomics Research Laboratory, National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (BIOTEC), National Science and Technology Development Agency, 113 Thailand Science Park, Phahonyothin Road, Khlong Nueng, Khlong Luang, Pathum Thani, 12120, Thailand
| | - Narumon Phaonakrop
- Proteomics Research Laboratory, National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (BIOTEC), National Science and Technology Development Agency, 113 Thailand Science Park, Phahonyothin Road, Khlong Nueng, Khlong Luang, Pathum Thani, 12120, Thailand
| | - Sucheewin Krobthong
- Proteomics Research Laboratory, National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (BIOTEC), National Science and Technology Development Agency, 113 Thailand Science Park, Phahonyothin Road, Khlong Nueng, Khlong Luang, Pathum Thani, 12120, Thailand
| | - Gunnaporn Suriyaphol
- Biochemistry Unit, Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, 39 Henri-Dunant Road, Wangmai, Pathumwan, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Xie Y, Wei BH, Ni FD, Yang WX. Conversion from spermatogonia to spermatocytes: Extracellular cues and downstream transcription network. Gene 2020; 764:145080. [PMID: 32858178 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2020.145080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2020] [Revised: 08/16/2020] [Accepted: 08/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Spermatocyte (spc) formation from spermatogonia (spg) differentiation is the first step of spermatogenesis which produces prodigious spermatozoa for a lifetime. After decades of studies, several factors involved in the functioning of a mouse were discovered both inside and outside spg. Considering the peculiar expression and working pattern of each factor, this review divides the whole conversion of spg to spc into four consecutive development processes with a focus on extracellular cues and downstream transcription network in each one. Potential coordination among Dmrt1, Sohlh1/2 and BMP families mediates Ngn3 upregulation, which marks progenitor spg, with other changes. After that, retinoic acid (RA), as a master regulator, promotes A1 spg formation with its helpers and Sall4. A1-to-B spg transition is under the control of Kitl and impulsive RA signaling together with early and late transcription factors Stra8 and Dmrt6. Finally, RA and its responsive effectors conduct the entry into meiosis. The systematic transcription network from outside to inside still needs research to supplement or settle the controversials in each process. As a step further ahead, this review provides possible drug targets for infertility therapy by cross-linking humans and mouse model.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yi Xie
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Bang-Hong Wei
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Fei-Da Ni
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Wan-Xi Yang
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
The relationship between vascular endothelial growth factor and spermatogenesis disturbance in an experimentally-induced unilateral cryptorchidism murine model. Mol Biol Rep 2020; 47:3605-3613. [PMID: 32347420 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-020-05454-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2020] [Accepted: 04/09/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
This study is to explore the relationship between vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and pathological changes in cryptorchidism by using murine model of intraperitoneal cryptorchidism with surgical operation. To investigate the relationship between the changes of VEGF expression and heat stress inducing germ cell damage in testicular tissue. Six-week-old ICR male mice were operated to make unilateral cryptorchidism mouse model. Here in our study, a remarkable damaged of germ cells are seen in murine model of unilateral cryptorchidism. And the expression of VEGF was significantly changed in a time dependent way and consistent with the pathological changes of testis, this leading us to conclude that there was a negative correlation between VEGF levels and germ cell damage in unilateral cryptorchidism mouse model. We propose that there is a time dependent decrease of VEGF expression in cryptorchidism and confirm that VEGF is essential in spermatogenesis disorder caused by cryptorchidism and non-obstructive azoospermia.
Collapse
|
6
|
Characterization of A Homozygous Deletion of Steroid Hormone Biosynthesis Genes in Horse Chromosome 29 as A Risk Factor for Disorders of Sex Development and Reproduction. Genes (Basel) 2020; 11:genes11030251. [PMID: 32120906 PMCID: PMC7140900 DOI: 10.3390/genes11030251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2020] [Revised: 02/21/2020] [Accepted: 02/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Disorders of sex development (DSD) and reproduction are not uncommon among horses, though knowledge about their molecular causes is sparse. Here we characterized a ~200 kb homozygous deletion in chromosome 29 at 29.7-29.9 Mb. The region contains AKR1C genes which function as ketosteroid reductases in steroid hormone biosynthesis, including androgens and estrogens. Mutations in AKR1C genes are associated with human DSDs. Deletion boundaries, sequence properties and gene content were studied by PCR and whole genome sequencing of select deletion homozygotes and control animals. Deletion analysis by PCR in 940 horses, including 622 with DSDs and reproductive problems and 318 phenotypically normal controls, detected 67 deletion homozygotes of which 79% were developmentally or reproductively abnormal. Altogether, 8-9% of all abnormal horses were homozygous for the deletion, with the highest incidence (9.4%) among cryptorchids. The deletion was found in ~4% of our phenotypically normal cohort, ~1% of global warmblood horses and ponies, and ~7% of draught breeds of general horse population as retrieved from published data. Based on the abnormal phenotype of the carriers, the functionally relevant gene content, and the low incidence in general population, we consider the deletion in chromosome 29 as a risk factor for equine DSDs and reproductive disorders.
Collapse
|
7
|
Effect of protocatechuic acid-layered double hydroxide nanoparticles on diethylnitrosamine/phenobarbital-induced hepatocellular carcinoma in mice. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0217009. [PMID: 31141523 PMCID: PMC6541272 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0217009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2018] [Accepted: 05/02/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Researchers investigating cancer chemotherapy and management continue to search for agents that selectively kill malignant cells and leave healthy neighboring cells intact. Natural products provide relevant resources for anti-cancer drug discovery. However, the physicochemical properties of these compounds limit their efficient uptake and bioavailability. We introduced a nanocarrier system, namely, zinc-aluminum-layered double hydroxide (ZnAl-LDH) intercalated with protocatechuic acid. In this study, the efficacy and toxicity of protocatechuic acid intercalated in zinc aluminum-layered double hydroxide nanoparticles (PCA-ZnAl) against diethylnitrosamine/phenobarbital (DEN/PB)-induced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in BALB/c mice was evaluated. HCC in male mice was induced by a single-dose intraperitoneal administration of DEN and was promoted by the introduction of PB via drinking water for 12 weeks. HCC induction was confirmed after the DEN/PB introduction period by measurement of the elevated level of serum α-feto protein (AFP). The results showed that the level of α-fetoprotein was significantly reduced in PCA-ZnAl (350±43.90 ng/mL), doxorubicin (DOX) (290±20.52 ng/mL) and ZnAl-LDH (390±19.65 ng/mL) treated animals compared to HCC mice treated with normal saline (580.4± 52.04 ng/mL). Superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione (GSH) levels were significantly increased, whereas the level of lipid peroxidation was significantly decreased in HCC mice treated with DOX, PCA-ZnAl and ZnAl-LDH compared with those in HCC mice treated with saline. Restoration of hepatocyte morphology was observed following treatment that was comparable to that in the normal control group. Deterioration of hepatic cells and a significant increase of aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) were observed in the cancer-induced untreated group compared with that in the groups treated with nanoparticles. The histopathological features of the liver obtained from PCA-ZnAl-treated mice showed a uniform size with a similar distribution of the nuclear-cytoplasmic ratio and nucleus centrally located in the cytoplasm, similar to the normal liver cells. The results underscored the potential of PCA-ZnAl for the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma.
Collapse
|
8
|
Rocca MS, Di Nisio A, Sabovic I, Ghezzi M, Foresta C, Ferlin A. E2F1 copy number variations contribute to spermatogenic impairment and cryptorchidism by increasing susceptibility to heat stress. Andrology 2019; 7:251-256. [PMID: 30659775 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2018] [Revised: 12/17/2018] [Accepted: 12/19/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Copy number variations (CNVs) play an important role in the onset of several diseases, and recently research focused on the relationship between these structural variants and diseases of the reproductive tract, including male infertility and cryptorchidism. OBJECTIVES To evaluate the contribution of copy number variations of E2F1 gene to idiopathic male infertility and the factors influencing expression of this gene. MATERIALS AND METHODS We performed a retrospective study on 540 subjects recruited from September 2014 to February 2015. TaqMan CNV assay was used to analyze E2F1 CNV. Real-time PCR was used to assess E2F1 and HSP70 expression level in heat stressed and transfected cells with three E2F1 copies. RESULTS We found a significant difference in the frequency of altered E2F1 copies in patients (12/343, 3.5%) compared with controls (0/197) (p = 0.005). Six patients with E2F1 CNV had history of cryptorchidism, but the prevalence between men with idiopathic infertility (6/243, 2.5%) and infertile men with history of cryptorchidism (6/100, 6.0%) was not statistically different (p = 0.1). E2F1 expression increased under heat stress conditions, especially in cells carrying more copies of gene and this was associated with increased expression of HSP70. DISCUSSION Our data suggest that an abnormal E2F1 expression caused by multiple copies of E2F1 gene predisposes to the onset of infertility and that the risk further increases if subjects with altered E2F1 copies have stressful conditions, such as heat stress or history of cryptorchidism. CONCLUSION This study shows a link between E2F1 CNV and male infertility, suggesting that the increased risk of spermatogenic impairment associated with higher E2F1 copies might be due to higher susceptibility to stressful conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M S Rocca
- Department of Medicine, Unit of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - A Di Nisio
- Department of Medicine, Unit of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - I Sabovic
- Department of Medicine, Unit of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - M Ghezzi
- Department of Medicine, Unit of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - C Foresta
- Department of Medicine, Unit of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - A Ferlin
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, Unit of Endocrinology, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Yimpring N, Teankum K, Srisuwatanasagul S, Kunnasut N, Am-In N, Suriyaphol G. Alteration of androgen receptor expression, apoptosis and cell proliferation in cryptorchid suckling, nursery and growing-finishing pigs. Theriogenology 2019; 127:49-55. [PMID: 30665073 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2019.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2018] [Revised: 01/03/2019] [Accepted: 01/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Cryptorchidism, a condition of one or two undescended testicles, is a common congenital disease in pigs, causing loss in the pig industry. One of the major factors affecting testicular descent is the androgen receptor (AR), which binds to androgen and then regulates the expression of androgen-responsive genes in the inguinoscrotal phase of testicular descent. AR expression has been reported to regulate apoptosis in testicular stem cells. The present study aimed to immunohistochemically examine AR and Ki-67 protein expression and apoptosis detection in unilateral undescended testicles (UDT) and descended testicles in cryptorchid pigs (DT) of suckling (aged 1-2 weeks), nursery (aged 6 weeks) and growing-finishing pigs (aged 12, 15 and 20 weeks) and in normal testicles (NT) at 1-2 and 12 weeks of age. At 1-2 weeks, decreased expression of AR was observed in UDT and DT compared with NT and was lower than that at 6-20 weeks. The expression of Ki-67, a marker of cell proliferation, in UDT and DT at 12 weeks was lower than that in NT at the same age. In addition, Ki-67 expression in UDT at 6 and 12 weeks was lower than that in UDT at 1-2 and 15-20 weeks. More testicular apoptosis was revealed in UDT at 1-2 weeks than in DT and NT at the same age. At 15-20 weeks, more apoptosis was detected in UDT than in DT. Positive correlation of AR expression in DT at 6 and 12 weeks was also noted, in addition to the association of the expression of AR and Ki-67 in NT at 12 weeks. Taken together, this study unveiled the low expression of AR and high apoptosis detection in UDT, whereas low expression of AR and low apoptosis detection were noted in DT in suckling piglets. Diminished cell proliferation was shown in UDT at 6-12 weeks, whereas high apoptosis was observed in UDT at 15-20 weeks. High expression of AR was shown only in nursery pigs. Distinct expression of AR in DT and NT at 1-2 and 12 weeks indicated that both conditions were not interchangeable.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nathamon Yimpring
- Biochemistry Unit, Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Komkrich Teankum
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Sayamon Srisuwatanasagul
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Nanthida Kunnasut
- Biochemistry Unit, Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Nutthee Am-In
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Gunnaporn Suriyaphol
- Biochemistry Unit, Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Tang D, Huang Z, He X, Wu H, Peng D, Zhang L, Zhang X. Altered miRNA profile in testis of post-cryptorchidopexy patients with non-obstructive azoospermia. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2018; 16:78. [PMID: 30103742 PMCID: PMC6090726 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-018-0393-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2018] [Accepted: 07/31/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cryptorchidism is one of the most common causes of non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) leading to male infertility. Despite various medical approaches been utilised, many patients still suffer from infertility. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play vital roles in the progress of spermatogenesis; however, little is known about the miRNA expression profile in the testes. Therefore, the miRNA profile was assessed in the testis of post-cryptorchidopexy patients. METHODS Three post-cryptorchidopexy testicular tissue samples from patients aged 23, 26 and 28 years old and three testis tissues from patients with obstructive azoospermia (controls) aged 24, 25 and 36 years old were used in this study. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) was used to perform the miRNA expression profiling. Quantitative real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) assays were subsequently used to confirm the results of several randomly-selected and annotated miRNAs. RESULTS A series of miRNAs were found to be altered between post-cryptorchidopexy testicular tissues and control tissues, including 297 downregulated and 152 upregulated miRNAs. In the subsequent qRT-PCR assays, the expression levels of most of the selected miRNAs (9/12, P < 0.05) were consistent with the results of NGS technology. Furthermore, signal transduction, adaptive immune response and biological regulation were associated with the putative target genes of the differentially-expressed miRNAs via GO analysis. In addition, oxidative phosphorylation, Parkinson's disease and ribosomal pathways were shown to be enriched using KEGG pathway analysis of the differentially-expressed genes. CONCLUSIONS This study provides a global view of the miRNAs involved in post-cryptorchidopexy testicular tissues as well as the altered expression of miRNAs compared to control tissues, thus confirming the vital role of miRNAs in cryptorchidism.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dongdong Tang
- 0000 0004 1771 3402grid.412679.fReproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui People’s Republic of China
- 0000 0000 9490 772Xgrid.186775.aAnhui Province Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui People’s Republic of China
- Anhui Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center for Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, Hefei, Anhui People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhenyu Huang
- 0000 0004 1771 3402grid.412679.fDepartment of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaojin He
- 0000 0004 1771 3402grid.412679.fReproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui People’s Republic of China
- 0000 0000 9490 772Xgrid.186775.aAnhui Province Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui People’s Republic of China
- Anhui Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center for Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, Hefei, Anhui People’s Republic of China
| | - Huan Wu
- 0000 0004 1771 3402grid.412679.fReproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui People’s Republic of China
- 0000 0000 9490 772Xgrid.186775.aAnhui Province Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui People’s Republic of China
- Anhui Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center for Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, Hefei, Anhui People’s Republic of China
| | - Dangwei Peng
- 0000 0004 1771 3402grid.412679.fDepartment of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui People’s Republic of China
| | - Li Zhang
- 0000 0004 1771 3402grid.412679.fDepartment of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiansheng Zhang
- 0000 0004 1771 3402grid.412679.fDepartment of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui People’s Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Gainetdinov IV, Kondratieva SA, Skvortsova YV, Zinovyeva MV, Stukacheva EA, Klimov A, Tryakin AA, Azhikina TL. Distinguishing epigenetic features of preneoplastic testis tissues adjacent to seminomas and nonseminomas. Oncotarget 2017; 7:22439-47. [PMID: 26843623 PMCID: PMC5008371 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.7074] [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: 09/24/2015] [Accepted: 01/12/2016] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
PIWI pathway proteins are expressed during spermatogenesis where they play a key role in germ cell development. Epigenetic loss of PIWI proteins expression was previously demonstrated in testicular germ cell tumors (TGCTs), implying their involvement in TGCT development. In this work, apart from studying only normal testis and TGCT samples, we also analyzed an intermediate stage, i.e. preneoplastic testis tissues adjacent to TGCTs. Importantly, in this study, we minimized the contribution of patient-to-patient heterogeneity by using matched preneoplastic/TGCT samples. Surprisingly, expression of germ cell marker DDX4 suggests that spermatogenesis is retained in premalignant testis tissues adjacent to nonseminoma, but not those adjacent to seminoma. Moreover, this pattern is followed by expression of PIWI pathway genes, which impacts one of their functions: DNA methylation level over LINE-1 promoters is higher in preneoplastic testis tissues adjacent to nonseminomas than those adjacent to seminomas. This finding might imply distinct routes for development of the two types of TGCTs and could be used as a novel diagnostic marker, possibly, noninvasively. Finally, we studied the role of CpG island methylation in expression of PIWI genes in patient samples and using in vitro experiments in cell line models: a more complex interrelation between DNA methylation and expression of the corresponding genes was revealed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ildar V Gainetdinov
- Department of Genetics and Postgenomic Technologies, Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Sofia A Kondratieva
- Department of Genetics and Postgenomic Technologies, Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Yulia V Skvortsova
- Department of Genetics and Postgenomic Technologies, Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Marina V Zinovyeva
- Department of Genetics and Postgenomic Technologies, Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Elena A Stukacheva
- Department of Genetics and Postgenomic Technologies, Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Alexey Klimov
- Department of Oncology, Blokhin Russian Cancer Research Center, Moscow, Russia
| | - Alexey A Tryakin
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Chemotherapy, Blokhin Russian Cancer Research Center, Moscow, Russia
| | - Tatyana L Azhikina
- Department of Genetics and Postgenomic Technologies, Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Dou X, Gao J, Gao P, Tang D, Peng D, Mao J, Huang Z, Chen P, Chen H, Ke S, Liang C, Zhang X. Association between RNA-binding protein Ptbp2 and germ cell injury in an experimentally-induced unilateral cryptorchidism murine model. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0186654. [PMID: 29045475 PMCID: PMC5646856 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0186654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2017] [Accepted: 10/03/2017] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
RNA binding protein polypyrimidine tract binding protein 2 (Ptbp2) as a key alternative splicing regulator for male germ cell development is well established. However, its expression levels and role in cryptorchidism testes tissues has not been explored. Additionally, the molecular mechanism of heat stress impacts the correct proliferation and differentiation of germ cells is unclear. To investigate whether changes in Ptbp2 expression are correlated with heat stress-induced germ cell injury in testicular tissue, we used a murine model of intraperitoneal cryptorchidism with surgical operation. Here we present compelling evidence that germ cells are severely damaged in mice with unilateral cryptorchidism, with non-obstructive azoospermia. And the Ptbp2 and Pgk2 mRNA levels were significantly decreased in parallel, leading us to conclude that the negative correlation between Ptbp2 levels and germ cell injury in unilateral cryptorchidism murine model. We hypothesize that Ptbp2 is susceptible to heat stress and its disruption has resulted in stability decline of germ cell transcripts Pgk2 mRNA, which consequently lead to germ cell injury in cryptorchidism testes. Thus, we confirm that Ptbp2 is an essential factor in heat stress-induced sperm cell injury and non-obstructive azoospermia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xianming Dou
- Department of Urology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Jingjing Gao
- Department of Urology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Pan Gao
- Department of Urology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, Anhui, China
| | - Dongdong Tang
- Department of Urology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Dangwei Peng
- Department of Urology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Jun Mao
- Department of Urology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Zhenyu Huang
- Department of Urology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Peng Chen
- Department of Urology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - He Chen
- Department of Laboratory, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Shengwei Ke
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Chaozhao Liang
- Department of Urology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Xiansheng Zhang
- Department of Urology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Bianchi E, Boekelheide K, Sigman M, Hall SJ, Hwang K. Ghrelin modulates testicular damage in a cryptorchid mouse model. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0177995. [PMID: 28542403 PMCID: PMC5436858 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0177995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2017] [Accepted: 05/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryptorchidism or undescended testis (UDT) is a common congenital abnormality associated with increased risk for developing male infertility and testicular cancer. This study elucidated the effects of endogenous ghrelin or growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHSR) deletion on mouse reproductive performance and evaluated the ability of ghrelin to prevent testicular damage in a surgical cryptorchid mouse model. Reciprocal matings with heterozygous/homozygous ghrelin and GHSR knockout mice were performed. Litter size and germ cell apoptosis were recorded and testicular histological evaluations were performed. Wild type and GHSR knockout adult mice were subjected to creation of unilateral surgical cryptorchidism that is a model of heat-induced germ cell death. All mice were randomly separated into two groups: treatment with ghrelin or with saline. To assess testicular damage, the following endpoints were evaluated: testis weight, seminiferous tubule diameter, percentage of seminiferous tubules with spermatids and with multinucleated giant cells. Our findings indicated that endogenous ghrelin deletion altered male fertility. Moreover, ghrelin treatment ameliorated the testicular weight changes caused by surgically induced cryptorchidism. Testicular histopathology revealed a significant preservation of spermatogenesis and seminiferous tubule diameter in the ghrelin-treated cryptorchid testes of GHSR KO mice, suggesting that this protective effect of ghrelin was mediated by an unknown mechanism. In conclusion, ghrelin therapy could be useful to suppress testicular damage induced by hyperthermia, and future investigations will focus on the underlying mechanisms by which ghrelin mitigates testicular damage.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Enrica Bianchi
- Division of Urology, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, RI, United States of America
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Brown University, Providence, RI, United States of America
| | - Kim Boekelheide
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Brown University, Providence, RI, United States of America
| | - Mark Sigman
- Division of Urology, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, RI, United States of America
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Brown University, Providence, RI, United States of America
| | - Susan J. Hall
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Brown University, Providence, RI, United States of America
| | - Kathleen Hwang
- Division of Urology, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, RI, United States of America
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Brown University, Providence, RI, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Durairajanayagam D, Agarwal A, Ong C. Causes, effects and molecular mechanisms of testicular heat stress. Reprod Biomed Online 2014; 30:14-27. [PMID: 25456164 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2014.09.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 216] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2014] [Revised: 09/14/2014] [Accepted: 09/25/2014] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The process of spermatogenesis is temperature-dependent and occurs optimally at temperatures slightly lower than that of the body. Adequate thermoregulation is imperative to maintain testicular temperatures at levels lower than that of the body core. Raised testicular temperature has a detrimental effect on mammalian spermatogenesis and the resultant spermatozoa. Therefore, thermoregulatory failure leading to heat stress can compromise sperm quality and increase the risk of infertility. In this paper, several different types of external and internal factors that may contribute towards testicular heat stress are reviewed. The effects of heat stress on the process of spermatogenesis, the resultant epididymal spermatozoa and on germ cells, and the consequent changes in the testis are elaborated upon. We also discuss the molecular response of germ cells to heat exposure and the possible mechanisms involved in heat-induced germ cell damage, including apoptosis, DNA damage and autophagy. Further, the intrinsic and extrinsic pathways that are involved in the intricate mechanism of germ cell apoptosis are explained. Ultimately, these complex mechanisms of apoptosis lead to germ cell death.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Damayanthi Durairajanayagam
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Glickman Urological and Kidney Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Ashok Agarwal
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Glickman Urological and Kidney Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, USA.
| | - Chloe Ong
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Glickman Urological and Kidney Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Yang S, Ping P, Ma M, Li P, Tian R, Yang H, Liu Y, Gong Y, Zhang Z, Li Z, He Z. Generation of haploid spermatids with fertilization and development capacity from human spermatogonial stem cells of cryptorchid patients. Stem Cell Reports 2014; 3:663-75. [PMID: 25358793 PMCID: PMC4223697 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2014.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2014] [Revised: 08/04/2014] [Accepted: 08/05/2014] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Generation of functional spermatids from azoospermia patients is of unusual significance in the treatment of male infertility. Here, we report an efficient approach to obtain human functional spermatids from cryptorchid patients. Spermatogonia remained whereas meiotic germ cells were rare in cryptorchid patients. Expression of numerous markers for meiotic and postmeiotic male germ cells was enhanced in human spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) of cryptorchidism patients by retinoic acid (RA) and stem cell factor (SCF) treatment. Meiotic spreads and DNA content assays revealed that RA and SCF induced a remarkable increase of SCP3-, MLH1-, and CREST-positive cells and haploid cells. Single-cell RNA sequencing analysis reflected distinct global gene profiles in embryos derived from round spermatids and nuclei of somatic cells. Significantly, haploid spermatids generated from human SSCs of cryptorchid patients possessed fertilization and development capacity. This study thus provides an invaluable source of autologous male gametes for treating male infertility in azoospermia patients. Spermatogonia remain whereas meiotic male germ cells are rare in cryptorchid patients Human SSCs of cryptorchid patients differentiate into phenotypic haploid spermatids Round spermatids derived from human SSCs have fertilization and development capacity Distinct gene profiles exist in embryos from round spermatid and somatic cell nuclei
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shi Yang
- Department of Urology, Shanghai Human Sperm Bank, Shanghai Institute of Andrology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 845 Linshan Road, Shanghai 200135, China
| | - Ping Ping
- Department of Urology, Shanghai Human Sperm Bank, Shanghai Institute of Andrology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 845 Linshan Road, Shanghai 200135, China
| | - Meng Ma
- Department of Urology, Shanghai Human Sperm Bank, Shanghai Institute of Andrology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 845 Linshan Road, Shanghai 200135, China
| | - Peng Li
- Department of Urology, Shanghai Human Sperm Bank, Shanghai Institute of Andrology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 845 Linshan Road, Shanghai 200135, China
| | - Ruhui Tian
- Department of Urology, Shanghai Human Sperm Bank, Shanghai Institute of Andrology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 845 Linshan Road, Shanghai 200135, China
| | - Hao Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji-Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 1630 Dongfang Road, Shanghai 200127, China
| | - Yang Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji-Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 1630 Dongfang Road, Shanghai 200127, China
| | - Yuehua Gong
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji-Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 1630 Dongfang Road, Shanghai 200127, China
| | - Zhenzhen Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji-Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 1630 Dongfang Road, Shanghai 200127, China
| | - Zheng Li
- Department of Urology, Shanghai Human Sperm Bank, Shanghai Institute of Andrology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 845 Linshan Road, Shanghai 200135, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai 200001, China.
| | - Zuping He
- Department of Urology, Shanghai Human Sperm Bank, Shanghai Institute of Andrology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 845 Linshan Road, Shanghai 200135, China; State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji-Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 1630 Dongfang Road, Shanghai 200127, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai 200001, China.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Cryptorchidism and infertility in rats with targeted disruption of the Adamts16 locus. PLoS One 2014; 9:e100967. [PMID: 24983376 PMCID: PMC4077762 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0100967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2014] [Accepted: 06/02/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
A Disintegrin And Metalloproteinase with ThromboSpondin motifs16 (ADAMTS-16) is a member of a family of metalloproteinases. Using a novel zinc-finger nuclease based gene-edited rat model harboring a targeted mutation of the Adamts16 locus, we previously reported this gene to be linked to blood pressure regulation. Here we document our observation with this model that Adamts16 is essential for normal development of the testis. Absence of Adamts16 in the homozygous Adamts16mutant males resulted in cryptorchidism and male sterility. Heterozygous Adamts16mutant males were normal, indicating that this is a recessive trait. Testes of homozygous Adamts16mutant males were significantly smaller with significant histological changes associated with the lack of sperm production. Temporal histological assessments of the testis demonstrated that the seminiferous tubules did not support active spermatogenesis, but progressively lost germ cells, accumulated vacuoles and did not have any sperm. These observations, taken together with our previous report of renal abnormalities observed with the same Adamts16mutant rats, suggest an important mechanistic link between Adamts16 and the functioning of the male genitourinary system.
Collapse
|
17
|
Zou S, Wang Y, Chen T, Song P, Xin D, Ping P, Huang Y, Li Z, Hu H. Ectopic expression of Sonic Hedgehog in a cryptorchid man with azoospermia: A case report. J Int Med Res 2014; 42:589-97. [PMID: 24567355 DOI: 10.1177/0300060513503919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
A 30-year-old man presented with a left undescended testis, right testicular deficiency and azoospermia. Testicular biopsy revealed an absence of spermatocytes and increased numbers of Leydig cells in the undescended testis. Additional comparative analyses were undertaken to explore Sonic Hedgehog (Shh) immunostaining in the testis of juvenile and adult mice, in the testis of the patient with cryptorchidism, and in archival testicular tissue from a patient with obstructive azoospermia and a patient with prostate cancer. Shh immunostaining was demonstrated in spermatocytes in juvenile and adult mouse testis and in the patients with obstructive azoospermia and prostate cancer, suggesting that Shh signalling is involved in normal spermatogenesis. In the patient with cryptorchidism, Shh immunostaining was localized to the Leydig cells, which suggests that Shh might be involved in the abnormal expansion of the Leydig cell population in the testis. These preliminary data on the appearance of Shh protein during normal spermatogenesis might provide the basis for further investigations to clarify the role of Shh signalling in spermatogenesis during normal and pathogenic testis development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shasha Zou
- Sperm Development and Genetics Laboratory, Shanghai Human Sperm Bank, Shanghai Institute of Andrology, Department of Urology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yanan Wang
- Sperm Development and Genetics Laboratory, Shanghai Human Sperm Bank, Shanghai Institute of Andrology, Department of Urology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Tingting Chen
- Sperm Development and Genetics Laboratory, Shanghai Human Sperm Bank, Shanghai Institute of Andrology, Department of Urology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Pingping Song
- Sperm Development and Genetics Laboratory, Shanghai Human Sperm Bank, Shanghai Institute of Andrology, Department of Urology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Daiying Xin
- Sperm Development and Genetics Laboratory, Shanghai Human Sperm Bank, Shanghai Institute of Andrology, Department of Urology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ping Ping
- Sperm Development and Genetics Laboratory, Shanghai Human Sperm Bank, Shanghai Institute of Andrology, Department of Urology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yiran Huang
- Sperm Development and Genetics Laboratory, Shanghai Human Sperm Bank, Shanghai Institute of Andrology, Department of Urology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zheng Li
- Sperm Development and Genetics Laboratory, Shanghai Human Sperm Bank, Shanghai Institute of Andrology, Department of Urology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hongliang Hu
- Sperm Development and Genetics Laboratory, Shanghai Human Sperm Bank, Shanghai Institute of Andrology, Department of Urology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Ferguson L, How JJ, Agoulnik AI. The fate of spermatogonial stem cells in the cryptorchid testes of RXFP2 deficient mice. PLoS One 2013; 8:e77351. [PMID: 24098584 PMCID: PMC3789668 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0077351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2013] [Accepted: 09/02/2013] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The environmental niche of the spermatogonial stem cell pool is critical to ensure the continued generation of the germ cell population. To study the consequences of an aberrant testicular environment in cryptorchidism we used a mouse model with a deletion of Rxfp2 gene resulting in a high intra-abdominal testicular position. Mutant males were infertile with the gross morphology of the cryptorchid testis progressively deteriorating with age. Few spermatogonia were identifiable in 12 month old cryptorchid testes. Gene expression analysis showed no difference between mutant and control testes at postnatal day 10. In three month old males a decrease in expression of spermatogonial stem cell (SSC) markers Id4, Nanos2, and Ret was shown. The direct counting of ID4+ cells supported a significant decrease of SSCs. In contrast, the expression of Plzf, a marker for undifferentiated and differentiating spermatogonia was not reduced, and the number of PLZF+ cells in the cryptorchid testis was higher in three month old testes, but equal to control in six month old mutants. The PLZF+ cells did not show a higher rate of apoptosis in cryptorchid testis. The expression of the Sertoli cell FGF2 gene required for SSC maintenance was significantly reduced in mutant testis. Based on these findings we propose that the deregulation of somatic and germ cell genes in the cryptorchid testis, directs the SSCs towards the differentiation pathway. This leads to a depletion of the SSC pool and an increase in the number of PLZF+ spermatogonial cells, which too, eventually decreases with the exhaustion of the stem cell pool. Such a dynamic suggests that an early correction of cryptorchidism is critical for the retention of the SSC pool.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lydia Ferguson
- Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, Florida, United States of America
| | - Javier J. How
- Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, Florida, United States of America
| | - Alexander I. Agoulnik
- Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, Florida, United States of America
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Abstract
The failure of testicular descent or cryptorchidism is the most common defect in newborn boys. The descent of the testes during development is controlled by insulin-like 3 peptide and steroid hormones produced in testicular Leydig cells, as well as by various genetic and developmental factors. While in some cases the association with genetic abnormalities and environmental causes has been shown, the etiology of cryptorchidism remains uncertain. Cryptorchidism is an established risk factor for infertility and testicular germ cell tumors (TGCT). Experimental animal models suggest a causative role for an abnormal testicular position on the disruption of spermatogenesis however the link between cryptorchidism and TGCT is less clear. The most common type of TGCT in cryptorchid testes is seminoma, believed to be derived from pluripotent prenatal germ cells. Recent studies have shown that seminoma cells and their precursor carcinoma in situ cells express a number of spermatogonial stem cell (SSC) markers suggesting that TGCTs might originate from adult stem cells. We review here the data on changes in the SSC somatic cell niche observed in cryptorchid testes of mouse models and in human patients. We propose that the misregulation of growth factors' expression may alter the balance between SSC self-renewal and differentiation and shift stem cells toward neoplastic transformation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lydia Ferguson
- Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International UniversityMiami, FL, USA
| | - Alexander I. Agoulnik
- Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International UniversityMiami, FL, USA
- *Correspondence: Alexander I. Agoulnik, Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, 11200 SW 8th Street, HLSI 419B, Miami, FL 33199, USA. e-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Lotti F, Tamburrino L, Marchiani S, Muratori M, Corona G, Fino M, Degl'Innocenti S, Forti G, Maggi M, Baldi E. Semen apoptotic M540 body levels correlate with testis abnormalities: a study in a cohort of infertile subjects. Hum Reprod 2012; 27:3393-402. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/des348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
|