Polysome-like structures in the chromatoid body of rat spermatids

SMG6 localizes to the chromatoid body and shapes the male germ cell transcriptome to drive spermatogenesis

Nonsense-mediated RNA decay (NMD) is a highly conserved and selective RNA turnover pathway that depends on the endonuclease SMG6. Here, we show that SMG6 is essential for male germ cell differentiation in mice. Germ-cell conditional knockout (cKO) of Smg6 induces extensive transcriptome misregulation, including a failure to eliminate meiotically expressed transcripts in early haploid cells, and accumulation of NMD target mRNAs with long 3' untranslated regions (UTRs). Loss of SMG6 in the male germline results in complete arrest of spermatogenesis at the early haploid cell stage. We find that SMG6 is strikingly enriched in the chromatoid body (CB), a specialized cytoplasmic granule in male germ cells also harboring PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) and the piRNA-binding protein PIWIL1. This raises the possibility that SMG6 and the piRNA pathway function together, which is supported by several findings, including that Piwil1-KO mice phenocopy Smg6-cKO mice and that SMG6 and PIWIL1 co-regulate many genes in round spermatids. Together, our results demonstrate that SMG6 is an essential regulator of the male germline transcriptome, and highlight the CB as a molecular platform coordinating RNA regulatory pathways to control sperm production and fertility.

Analysis of Ser/Thr Kinase HASPIN-Interacting Proteins in the Spermatids

HASPIN is predominantly expressed in spermatids, and plays an important role in cell division in somatic and meiotic cells through histone H3 phosphorylation. The literature published to date has suggested that HASPIN may play multiple roles in cells. Here, 10 gene products from the mouse testis cDNA library that interact with HASPIN were isolated using the two-hybrid system. Among them, CENPJ/CPAP, KPNA6/importin alpha 6, and C1QBP/HABP1 were analyzed in detail for their interactions with HASPIN, with HASPIN phosphorylated C1QBP as the substrate. The results indicated that HASPIN is involved in spermatogenesis through the phosphorylation of C1QBP in spermatids, and also may be involved in the formation of centrosomes.

Chromatoid Bodies: Aggresome-like Characteristics and Degradation Sites for Organelles of Spermiogenic Cells

We investigated the localization of several markers for lysosomes and aggresomes in the chromatoid bodies (CBs) by immunoelectron microscopy. We found so-called aggresomal markers such as Hsp70 and ubiquitin in the core of the CBs and vimentin and proteasome subunit around the CBs. Ubiquitin-conjugating enzyme (E2) was also found in the CBs. In tubulovesicular structures surrounding the CBs, lysosomal markers were detected but an endoplasmic reticulum retention signal (KDEL) was not. Moreover, proteins located in each subcellular compartment, including the cytosol, mitochondria, and nucleus, were detected in the CBs. Signals for cytochrome oxidase I (COXI) coded on mitochondrial DNA were also found in the CBs. Quantitative analysis of labeling density showed that all proteins examined were concentrated in the CBs to some extent. These results show that the CBs have some aggresomal features, suggesting that they are not a synthetic site as proposed previously but a degradation site where unnecessary DNA, RNA, and proteins are digested.

PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) - a mouse testis perspective

Over the past decade, PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) have emerged as the most intriguing class of small RNAs. Almost every aspect of piRNA biology defies established rules of the RNA interference world while the scope of piRNA functional potential spans from transcriptional gene silencing to genome defense to transgenerational epigenetic phenomena. This review will focus on the genomic origins, biogenesis, and function of piRNAs in the mouse testis - an exceptionally robust experimental system amenable to genetic, cell-biological, molecular, and biochemical studies. Aided and frequently guided by knowledge obtained in insect, worm, and fish germ cells, mouse spermatogenesis has emerged as the primary model in understanding the role of this conserved pathway in mammals.

Isolation of chromatoid bodies from mouse testis as a rich source of short RNAs

RNA-protein (RNP) complexes and granules are powerful composites of merged functions and unique properties. The importance of RNPs in carrying out complex tasks in RNA processing and regulation is being increasingly revealed. One of the biggest RNP granules is the chromatoid body (CB) that is believed to orchestrate the RNA posttranscriptional regulation in haploid male germ cells. Here, we describe the CB isolation procedure, from mouse testis. After cross-linking and lysing the cells, the CBs are enriched by slow-speed centrifugation and immunoprecipitated using anti-MVH/DDX4 antibody. The method yields pure fractions of CBs, and it is robust, reproducible and does not require special equipment or abundant starting material. The CB is packed with large amounts of RNA, especially small RNAs. Isolation of the CBs provides a tool to enrich these RNA species.

Relationship of other cytoplasmic ribonucleoprotein bodies (cRNPB) to GW/P bodies

GW/P body components are involved in the post-transcriptional -processing of messenger RNA (mRNA) through the RNA interference and 5' → 3' mRNA degradation pathways, as well as functioning in mRNA transport and stabilization. It is currently thought that the relevant mRNA silencing and degrading factors are partitioned to these cytoplasmic microdomains thus effecting post-transcriptional regulation and the prevention of accidental degradation of functional mRNA. Although much attention has focused on GW/P bodies, a variety of other cytoplasmic RNP bodies (cRNPB) also have highly specialized functions and have been shown to interact or co-localize with components of GW/P bodies. These cRNPB include neuronal transport RNP granules, stress granules, RNP-rich cytoplasmic germline granules or chromatoid bodies, sponge bodies, cytoplasmic prion protein-induced RNP granules, U bodies and TAM bodies. Of clinical relevance, autoantibodies directed against protein and miRNA components of GW/P bodies have been associated with autoimmune diseases, neurological diseases and cancer. Understanding the molecular function of GW/P bodies and their interactions with other cRNPB may provide clues to the etiology or pathogenesis of diseases associated with autoantibodies directed to these structures. This chapter will focus on the similarities and differences of the various cRNPB as an approach to understanding their functional relationships to GW/P bodies.

Immunoelectron microscopic study of BASP1 and MARCKS location in the early and late rat spermatids

Immunoelectron microscopy was used to locate the proteins BASP1 and MARCKS in the post-meiotic spermatids of male rat testis. It was shown that in early spermatids, BASP1 and MARCKS accumulate in chromatoid bodies, which are characteristic organelles for these cells. During spermatogenesis, while the spermatid nucleus is still active, the chromatoid body periodically moves to the cell nucleus and absorbs the precursors of definite mRNAs and small RNAs. mRNAs are preserved in the chromatoid body until the corresponding proteins are needed, but their "fresh" mRNA cannot be formed due to the nucleus inactivation. The chromatoid body (0.5-1.5μm in diameter) has a cloud-like fibrous appearance with many fairly round cavities. In the chromatoid body, BASP1 and MARCKS are distributed mainly around the cavities and at periphery. Based on the known functions of BASP1 and MARCKS in neurons, it is conceivable that these proteins participate in non-random movements of the chromatoid body to the nucleus and in Ca(2+)-calmodulin enrichment. In late spermatids, BASP1 and MARCKS are located in the outer dense fiber layer belonging to a metabolically active spermatozoon region, the tail mid-piece. In spermatozoa, as in chromatoid body, BASP1 and MARCKS may bind Ca(2+)-calmodulin and therefore contribute to the activation of calcium-dependent biochemical processes.

New insights into the regulation of RNP granule assembly in oocytes

In a variety of cell types in plants, animals, and fungi, ribonucleoprotein (RNP) complexes play critical roles in regulating RNA metabolism. These RNP granules include processing bodies and stress granules that are found broadly across cell types, as well as RNP granules unique to the germline, such as P granules, polar granules, sponge bodies, and germinal granules. This review focuses on RNP granules localized in oocytes of the major model systems, Caenorhabditis elegans, Drosophila, Xenopus, mouse, and zebrafish. The signature families of proteins within oocyte RNPs include Vasa and other RNA-binding proteins, decapping activators and enzymes, Argonaute family proteins, and translation initiation complex proteins. This review describes the many recent insights into the dynamics and functions of RNP granules, including their roles in mRNA degradation, mRNA localization, translational regulation, and fertility. The roles of the cytoskeleton and cell organelles in regulating RNP granule assembly are also discussed.

Maybe repressed mRNAs are not stored in the chromatoid body in mammalian spermatids

The chromatoid body is a dynamic organelle that is thought to coordinate the cytoplasmic regulation of mRNA translation and degradation in mammalian spermatids. The chromatoid body is also postulated to function in repression of mRNA translation by sequestering dormant mRNAs where they are inaccessible to the translational apparatus. This review finds no convincing evidence that dormant mRNAs are localized exclusively in the chromatoid body. This discrepancy can be explained by two hypotheses. First, experimental artifacts, possibly related to peculiarities of the structure and function of the chromatoid body, preclude obtaining an accurate indication of mRNA localization. Second, mRNA is not stored in the chromatoid body, because, like perinuclear P granules in Caenorhabditis elegans, the chromatoid body functions as a center for mRNP remodeling and export to other cytoplasmic sites.

Nucleolar cycle and chromatoid body formation: is there a relationship between these two processes during spermatogenesis of Dendropsophus minutus (Amphibia, Anura)?

The goals of this study were to monitor the nucleolar material distribution during Dendropsophus minutus spermatogenesis using cytological and cytochemical techniques and ultrastructural analysis, as well as to compare the nucleolar material distribution to the formation of the chromatoid body (CB) in the germ epithelium of this amphibian species. Nucleolar fragmentation occurred during the pachytene of prophase I and nucleolus reorganization occurred in the early spermatid nucleus. The area of the spermatogonia nucleolus was significantly larger than that of the earlier spermatid nucleolus. Ultrastructural analysis showed an accumulation of nuages in the spermatogonia cytoplasm, which form the CB before nucleolar fragmentation. The CB was observed in association with mitochondrial clusters in the cytoplasm of primary spermatocytes, as well as in those of earlier spermatids. In conclusion, the nucleolus seems to be related to CB formation during spermatogenesis of D. minutus, because, at the moment of nucleolus fragmentation in the primary spermatocytes, the CB area reaches a considerable size and is able to execute its important functions during spermatogenesis. The reorganized nucleolus of the earlier spermatids has a smaller area due to several factors, among them the probable migration of nucleolar fragments from the nucleus to the cytoplasm, and plays a part in the CB chemical composition.

Surfing the wave, cycle, life history, and genes/proteins expressed by testicular germ cells. Part 2: changes in spermatid organelles associated with development of spermatozoa

Spermiogenesis is a long process whereby haploid spermatids derived from the meiotic divisions of spermatocytes undergo metamorphosis into spermatozoa. It is subdivided into distinct steps with 19 being identified in rats, 16 in mouse and 8 in humans. Spermiogenesis extends over 22.7 days in rats and 21.6 days in humans. In this part, we review several key events that take place during the development of spermatids from a structural and functional point of view. During early spermiogenesis, the Golgi apparatus forms the acrosome, a lysosome-like membrane bound organelle involved in fertilization. The endoplasmic reticulum undergoes several topographical and structural modifications including the formation of the radial body and annulate lamellae. The chromatoid body is fully developed and undergoes structural and functional modifications at this time. It is suspected to be involved in RNA storing and processing. The shape of the spermatid head undergoes extensive structural changes that are species-specific, and the nuclear chromatin becomes compacted to accommodate the stream-lined appearance of the sperm head. Microtubules become organized to form a curtain or manchette that associates with spermatids at specific steps of their development. It is involved in maintenance of the sperm head shape and trafficking of proteins in the spermatid cytoplasm. During spermiogenesis, many genes/proteins have been implicated in the diverse dynamic events occurring at this time of development of germ cells and the absence of some of these have been shown to result in subfertility or infertility.

Localization of mouse vasa homolog protein in chromatoid body and related nuage structures of mammalian spermatogenic cells during spermatogenesis

The localization of vasa homolog protein in the spermatogenic cells of mice, rats, and guinea pigs was studied by immunofluorescence and electron microscopies with the antibody against mouse vasa homolog (MVH) protein. By immunofluorescence microscopy, four types of granular staining patterns were identified: (1) fine particles observed in diplotene and meiotic cells, (2) small granules associated with a mitochondrial marker and appearing in pachytene spermatocytes after stage V, (3) strands lacking the mitochondrial marker in late spermatocytes, and (4) large irregularly shaped granules in round spermatids. Immunoelectron microscopy defined the ultrastructural profiles of these MVH protein-positive granules: the first type consisted of small dense particles, the second had intermitochondrial cement (IMC), the third type, consisting of strands, had loose aggregates of either material dissociated from IMC or 70-90-nm particles, and the fourth had typical chromatoid bodies (CBs). The results suggest that MVH proteins function in these components of nuage. MVH protein-positive structures other than CBs disappeared during meiosis and CB appeared first in early spermatids. The results suggest that the formation of nuage is discontinued between spermatocytes and spermatids. The formation of nuage in spermatocytes and of CB in spermatids is discussed.

Accumulation of piRNAs in the chromatoid bodies purified by a novel isolation protocol

Haploid male germ cells are featured by an intriguing cytoplasmic cloud-like structure that has been named as chromatoid body (CB) on the basis of its staining properties and appearance under a microscope. Notwithstanding its early discovery in the late 19th century, the function of the CB is still largely obscure. Emerging evidence suggests a role for the CB and other similar RNA-containing granules, such as germ plasm in lower organism and processing bodies in somatic cells, in the control and organization of RNA processing and/or storage. Despite the increasing scientific demand, the lack of CB purification protocols has still been the main obstacle in the functional characterization of this structure. We have successfully isolated CBs from mouse testis by a novel immunoaffinity purification procedure and validated by several different methods that pure CB fractions are obtained. Analysis of the CB RNA content reveals enrichment of PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs), further emphasizing the role of CB as the RNA processing body.

Tdrd6 is required for spermiogenesis, chromatoid body architecture, and regulation of miRNA expression

BACKGROUND

Chromatoid bodies (CBs) are characteristic spermatid organelles, which were suggested to function in RNA storage and small RNA processing but whose functions remain largely unknown. CB components include Mili, Miwi, and Tudor domain proteins such as Tdrd6, whose contribution to CB structure and function is elusive.

RESULTS

We determined gametogenesis stage- and male-specific expression and localization of Tdrd6, identified a C-terminally truncated form as predominant after meiosis I, and demonstrated direct physical interaction of Tdrd6 with the CB components Mili and Miwi. Development from round into elongated spermatids is abrogated in Tdrd6(-/-) mice. Their round spermatids bear "ghost" CBs, whose architecture is greatly disrupted. Mael, Miwi, and Mvh do not localize to the Tdrd6-deficient CBs, but retrotransposons are not significantly activated. However, more than 50 miRNAs are more abundant in Tdrd6(-/-) testes, as are exemplary pre- and pri-miRNAs.

CONCLUSION

We conclude that Tdrd6 is essential for spermiogenesis, for CB structure, and for proper mature and precursor miRNA expression.

Characterization of Mongolian gerbil chromatoid bodies and their correlation with nucleolar cycle during spermatogenesis

The aims of the present study were to monitor the nucleolar cycle in Mongolian gerbil spermiogenesis, to verify the relationship between the nucleolar component and chromatoid body (CB) formation and to investigate the function of this cytoplasmic supramolecular structure in spermatogenic cells. Histological sections of adult seminiferous tubules were analysed cytochemically by light microscopy and ultrastructurally by transmission electron microscopy. The results reveal that in early spermatids, the CB was visualized in association with Golgi vesicles indicating that this structure may participate in the acrosome formation process as had been reported in other rodents. In late spermatids, the CB was observed near the axoneme region suggesting that this structure may support spermatozoon tail formation as happens in other species. Chromatoid body was joined with lipid droplets in this same cell type. This observation should be investigated to verify whether CB may be related to steroidal hormone metabolism. In conclusion, our data showed that there is disintegration of primary spermatocyte nucleoli at the beginning of prophase I and a fraction of this nucleolar material migrates to the cytoplasm, where a specific structure is formed, known as the 'chromatoid body', which apparently participates in some parts of the gerbil spermiogenesis process.

A large ribonucleoprotein particle induced by cytoplasmic PrP shares striking similarities with the chromatoid body, an RNA granule predicted to function in posttranscriptional gene regulation

The observation that PrP is present in the cytosol of some neurons and non-neuronal cells and that the N-terminal signal peptide is slightly inefficient has brought speculations concerning a possible function of the protein in the cytosol. Here, we show that cells expressing a cytosolic form of PrP termed cyPrP display a large juxtanuclear cytoplasmic RNA organelle. Although cyPrP spontaneously forms aggresomes, we used several mutants to demonstrate that the assembly of this RNA organelle is independent from cyPrP aggregation. Components of the organelle fall into three classes: mRNAs; proteins, including the RNAseIII family polymerase Dicer, the decapping enzyme Dcp1a, the DEAD-box RNA helicase DDX6, and the small nuclear ribonucleoprotein-associated proteins SmB/B'/N; and non-coding RNAs, including rRNA 5S, tRNAs, U1 small nuclear RNA, and microRNAs. This composition is similar to RNA granules or chromatoid bodies from germ cells, or planarian stem cells and neurons, which are large ribonucleoprotein complexes predicted to function in RNA processing and posttranscriptional gene regulation. The domain of PrP encompassing residues 30 to 49 is essential for the formation of the RNA particle. Our findings confirm the intriguing relation between PrP and RNA in cells, and underscore an unexpected function for cytosolic PrP: assembling a large RNA processing center which we have termed PrP-RNP for PrP-induced ribonucleoprotein particle.

Historical survey on chromatoid body research

The chromatoid body (CB) is a male reproductive cell-specific organelle that appears in spermatocytes and spermatids. The cytoplasmic granule corresponding to the CB was first discovered some 130 years ago by von Brunn in 1876. Thirty years later the German term "chromatoide Körper" (chromatoid body) was introduced to describe this granule and is still used today. In this review, first, the results obtained by light microscopic studies on the CB for the first 60 years are examined. Next, many findings revealed by electron microscopic studies are reviewed. Finally, recent molecular cell biological studies concerning the CB are discussed. The conclusion obtained by exploring the papers on CB published during the past 130 years is that many of the modern molecular cell biological studies are undoubtedly based on information accumulated by vast amounts of early studies.

Meiotic nucleolar cycle and chromatoid body formation during the rat (Rattus novergicus) and mouse (Mus musculus) spermiogenesis

The aims of the present study were to follow the nucleolar cycle in spermiogenesis of the laboratory rodents Rattus novergicus and Mus musculus, to verify the relationship between the nucleolar component and chromatoid body (CB) formation and to investigate the function of this cytoplasmic supramolecular structure in spermatogenic haploid cells. Histological sections of adult seminiferous tubules were analyzed cytochemically by light microscopy and ultrastructural procedures by transmission electron microscopy. The results reveal that in early spermatids, the CB was visualized in association with the Golgi cisterns indicating that this structure may participate in the acrosome formation process. In late spermatids, the CB was observed near the axonema, a fact suggesting that this structure may support the formation of the spermatozoon tail. In conclusion, our data showed that there is disintegration of spermatid nucleoli at the beginning of spermatogenesis and a fraction of this nucleolar material migrates to the cytoplasm, where a specific structure is formed, known as the "chromatoid body", which, apparently, participates in some parts of the rodent spermiogenesis process.

The chromatoid body: a germ-cell-specific RNA-processing centre

The chromatoid body, a unique cloud-like structure of male germ cells, moves dynamically in the cytoplasm of haploid spermatids, but its function has remained elusive for decades. Recent findings indicate that microRNA and RNA-decay pathways converge to the chromatoid body. This highly specialized structure might function as an intracellular focal domain that organizes and controls RNA processing in male germ cells.

Interplay of PIWI/Argonaute protein MIWI and kinesin KIF17b in chromatoid bodies of male germ cells

Chromatoid bodies are thought to act as male-germ-cell-specific platforms for the storing and processing of haploid transcripts. The molecular mechanisms governing the formation and function of these germ-cell-specific structures have remained elusive. In this study, we show that the kinesin motor protein KIF17b, which is involved in the nucleocytoplasmic transport of RNA and of a transcriptional coactivator, localizes in chromatoid bodies. The chromatoid body moves actively and non-randomly in the cytoplasm of round spermatids, making frequent contacts with the nuclear envelope. The localization of KIF17b thereby offers a potential mechanism for microtubule-dependent mobility of chromatoid bodies, as well as for the transport of the specific components in and out of the chromatoid body. Interestingly, we demonstrate that KIF17b physically interacts with a testis-specific member of the PIWI/Argonaute family, MIWI, a component of chromatoid bodies implicated in RNA metabolism. A functional interplay between KIF17b and MIWI might be needed for the loading of haploid RNAs in the chromatoid body. Importantly, chromatoid bodies from round spermatids of miwi-null mice are not fully compacted and remain as a diffuse chromatoid material, revealing the essential role played by MIWI in the formation of chromatoid bodies. These results shed new light on the function of chromatoid bodies in the post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression in haploid germ cells.

The chromatoid body of male germ cells: similarity with processing bodies and presence of Dicer and microRNA pathway components

The chromatoid body is a perinuclear, cytoplasmic cloud-like structure in male germ cells whose function has remained elusive. Here we show that the chromatoid body is related to the RNA-processing body of somatic cells. Dicer and components of microRNP complexes (including Ago proteins and microRNAs) are highly concentrated in chromatoid bodies. Furthermore, we show that Dicer interacts with a germ cell-specific chromatoid body component, the RNA helicase MVH (mouse VASA homolog). Thus, chromatoid bodies seem to operate as intracellular nerve centers of the microRNA pathway. Our findings underscore the importance of posttranscriptional gene regulation and of the microRNA pathway in the control of postmeiotic male germ cell differentiation.

Ultrastructural and cytochemical aspects of the female gonad ofGeoplana burmeisteri (Platyhelminthes, Tricladida, Terricola)

The ultrastructure of the female gonad of the land planarian Geoplana burmeisteri was investigated by means of electron microscopy and cytochemical techniques. It consists of two small germaria located ventral to the intestine and of two irregular, lateral rows of vitelline follicles, both enveloped by a tunica composed of an extracellular lamina and an inner sheath of accessory cells. Accessory cell projections completely surround developing oocytes and vitellocytes. The main feature of oocyte maturation is the appearance of chromatoid bodies and the development of the rough endoplasmic reticulum (RER) and Golgi complexes. These organelles appear to be correlated with the production of egg inclusions of medium electron density, about 1.5-1.8 microm in diameter, which remain scattered in the ooplasm of mature oocytes. On the basis of cytochemical tests demonstrating their glycoprotein composition, these inclusions were interpreted as residual yolk globules. Vitellocytes are typical secretory cells with well-developed RER and Golgi complexes that are mainly involved in the production of yolk globules and eggshell globules, respectively. Eggshell globules appear to arise from repeated coalescence of small Golgi-derived vesicles and, at an intermediate stage of maturation, show a multigranular pattern. Later, after vesicle fusion, they reach a diameter of 1.3-1.6 microm when completely mature and show a meandering/concentric pattern, as is typical of the situation seen in most Proseriata and Tricladida. The content of yolk globules is completely digested by pronase, while the content of eggshell globules is unaffected. Mature vitellocytes contain, in addition, a large quantity of glycogen and lipid droplets as further reserve material. On the basis of the ultrastructural characteristics of the female gonad described above and in relation to the current literature, we conclude that G. burmeisteri appears to be more closely related to the freshwater triclads, in particular to members of the Dugesiidae, than to the marine triclads.

The chromatoid body in spermatogenesis

All germ cells throughout the animal kingdom contain cytoplasmic cloud-like accumulations of material called nuage. Polar bodies in Drosophila oocytes are probably the best known forms of nuage. In spermatogenic cells, the nuage is called chromatoid body (CB). In early spermatids of the rat, it has a diameter of 1-1.5 microm and a finely filamentous lobular structure. Typically, it is associated with a multitude of vesicles. It is first clearly seen in mid- and late pachytene spermatocytes as an intermitochondrial dense material. During early spermiogenesis it is seen near the Golgi complex and frequently connected by material continuities through nuclear pore complexes with intranuclear particles. In living cells, the CB moves around the Golgi complex and has frequent contacts with it. The CB also moves perpendicularly to the nuclear envelope, and even through cytoplasmic bridges to the neighbour spermatids. One of the major components of the CB is a DEAD-box RNA helicase VASA that belongs to a class of proteins thought to act as RNA chaperones. It is a general marker of all germ cells and best characterized in Drosophila. The mouse VASA homologue was recently used as a marker of sperm formation from embryonic stem cells. It becomes generally accepted that the CB with its associated structures constitute a mechanism of post-transcriptional processing and storage of several mRNA species that are shared between neighbour cells and used for translation when the genome of the spermatids becomes inactive.

RNF17, a component of the mammalian germ cell nuage, is essential for spermiogenesis

Nuages are found in the germ cells of diverse organisms. However, nuages in postnatal male germ cells of mice are poorly studied. Previously, we cloned a germ cell-specific gene named Rnf17, which encodes a protein containing both a RING finger and tudor domains. Here, we report that RNF17 is a component of a novel nuage in male germ cells--the RNF17 granule, which is an electron-dense non-membrane bound spherical organelle with a diameter of 0.5 mum. RNF17 granules are prominent in late pachytene and diplotene spermatocytes, and in elongating spermatids. RNF17 granules are distinguishable from other known nuages, such as chromatoid bodies. RNF17 is able to form dimers or polymers both in vitro and in vivo, indicating that it may play a role in the assembly of RNF17 granules. Rnf17-deficient male mice were sterile and exhibited a complete arrest in round spermatids, demonstrating that Rnf17 encodes a novel key regulator of spermiogenesis. Rnf17-null round spermatids advanced to step 4 but failed to produce sperm. These results have shown that RNF17 is a component of a novel germ cell nuage and is required for differentiation of male germ cells.

XMR, a dual location protein in the XY pair and in its associated nucleolus in mouse spermatocytes

Xlr and Xmr are sex-specific genes which are expressed during the meiotic prophase I in the mouse. In spermatocytes, XMR concentrates on the asynapsed regions of the XY chromosomes, suggesting that XMR plays a role in sex chromosome condensation and silencing. The present study shows that in the mouse, XMR also concentrates in the nucleolus which is closely associated with the XY chromosome pair. In this species, the formation of a large fibrillo-granular nucleolus signals the activation of the ribosomal genes, but release of pre-ribosomal particles is inhibited. Using laser confocal microscopy we characterized the distribution of XMR in the XY body relative to the XY chromatin and the nucleolus. Immunoelectron microscopy showed that XMR concentrates in the fibrillo-granular component and the granular component (GC) of the nucleolus. In (T[X;16]16H) mouse spermatocytes, the nucleolus displays little or no activity and does not associate with the XY pair. XMR concentrated only on the XY chromosomes in (T[X;16]16H) mouse spermatocytes. These data suggest that XMR could play a role both in the XY pair and the nucleolus associated to the sex chromosomes.

Gonadotropin-regulated testicular RNA helicase (GRTH/Ddx25) is essential for spermatid development and completion of spermatogenesis

Gonadotropin-regulated testicular RNA helicase (GRTH/Ddx25), a member of the DEAD-box protein family, is a testis-specific gonadotropin-regulated RNA helicase that is present in Leydig cells and germ cells (meiotic spermatocytes and spermatids). In this study, we observed that GRTH is present in the nucleus, cytoplasm and chromatoid body of germ cells, and is an integral component of messenger ribonuclear protein particles. Male mice with a null mutation in the GRTH gene displayed normal gonadotropin and androgen profiles. However, they were sterile, with azoospermia caused by a complete arrest of spermiogenesis at step 8 of round spermatids and failure to elongate. Round spermatids of the null mice showed marked diminution in the size of chromatoid bodies. The transcription of relevant messages was not altered, but their translation was abrogated in a selective manner. Protein expression of transition proteins 1 and 2 and angiotensin-converting enzyme was completely absent, whereas that of the transcriptional activator cAMP responsive element modulator was intact. These findings indicate that GRTH participates in translational-associated events during germ cell development. Although significant apoptosis was present at the metaphase of meiosis in the GRTH-null mice, spermatogenesis proceeded to step 8 of spermiogenesis when complete arrest occurred. This progression may relate to compensatory gene function(s) and/or the observed up-regulation of DNA repair proteins Rad51 and Dmc1. This study (i) demonstrates that GRTH is essential for completion of spermatogenesis, (ii) provides insights into intrinsic requirements for spermiogenesis, and (iii) establishes a model for studies of male infertility and contraception.

Transcription in haploid male germ cells

Major modifications in chromatin organization occur in spermatid nuclei, resulting in a high degree of DNA packaging within the spermatozoon head. However, before arrest of transcription during midspermiogenesis, high levels of mRNA are found in round spermatids. Some transcripts are the product of genes expressed ubiquitously, whereas some are generated from male germ cell-specific gene homologs of somatic cell genes. Others are transcript variants derived from genes with expression regulated in a testis-specific fashion. The haploid genome of spermatids also initiates the transcription of testis-specific genes. Various general transcription factors, distinct promoter elements, and specific transcription factors are involved in transcriptional regulation. After meiosis, spermatids are genetically but not phenotypically different, because of transcript and protein sharing through cytoplasmic bridges connecting spermatids of the same generation. Interestingly, different types of mRNAs accumulate in the sperm cell nucleus, raising the question of their origin and of a possible role after fertilization.

Mouse Tudor Repeat-1 (MTR-1) is a novel component of chromatoid bodies/nuages in male germ cells and forms a complex with snRNPs

Characteristic ribonucleoprotein-rich granules, called nuages, are present in the cytoplasm of germ-line cells in many species. In mice, nuages are prominent in postnatal meiotic spermatocytes and postmeiotic round spermatids, and are often called chromatoid bodies at the stages. We have isolated Mouse tudor repeat-1 (Mtr-1) which encodes a MYND domain and four copies of the tudor domain. Multiple tudor domains are a characteristic of the TUDOR protein, a component of Drosophila nuages. Mtr-1 is expressed in germ-line cells and is most abundant in fetal prospermatogonia and postnatal primary spermatocytes. The MTR-1 protein is present in the cytoplasm of prospermatogonia, spermatocytes, and round spermatids, and predominantly localizes to chromatoid bodies. We show that (1) an assembled form of small nuclear ribonucleoproteins (snRNPs), which usually function as spliceosomal complexes in the nucleus, accumulate in chromatoid bodies, and form a complex with MTR-1, (2) when expressed in cultured cells, MTR-1 forms discernible granules that co-localize with snRNPs in the cell plasm during cell division, and (3) the deletion of multiple tudor domains in MTR-1 abolishes the formation of such granules. These results suggest that MTR-1, which would provide novel insights into evolutionary comparison of nuages, functions in assembling snRNPs into cytoplasmic granules in germ cells.

Spatiotemporal changes of levels of a moonlighting protein, phospholipid hydroperoxide glutathione peroxidase, in subcellular compartments during spermatogenesis in the rat testis

We studied temporal changes in the subcellular localization and levels of a moonlighting protein, phospholipid hydroperoxide glutathione peroxidase (PHGPx), in spermatogenic cells and mature sperm of the rat by immunofluorescence and immunoelectron microscopy. The PHGPx signals were detected in chromatoid bodies, clear nucleoplasm, mitochondria-associated material, mitochondrial aggregates, granulated bodies, and vesicles in residual bodies in addition to mitochondria, nuclei, and acrosomes as previously reported. Within mitochondria, PHGPx moved from the matrix to the outermost membrane region in step 19 spermatid, suggesting that this spatiotemporal change is synchronized with the functional change of PHGPx in mitochondria. In the nucleus, PHGPx was associated with electron-lucent spots and with the nuclear envelope, and PHGPx in the latter region increased after step 16. In early pachytene spermatids, PHGPx signals were noted in the nuclear material exhibiting a very similar density to chromatoid bodies and in the intermitochondrial cement, supporting the previous proposal that chromatoid bodies originate from the nucleus and intermitochondrial cement. The presence of PHGPx in such various compartments suggested versatile roles for this protein in spermatogenesis. Quantitative immunoelectron microscopic analysis also revealed dynamic changes in the labeling density of PHGPx in different subcellular compartments as follows: 1). Total cellular PHGPx rapidly increased after step 5 and reached a maximum at step 18; 2). mitochondrial labeling density increased after step 1 and achieved a maximum in steps 15-17; 3). nuclear labeling density suddenly increased in steps 12-14 to a maximum; 4). in cytoplasmic matrix, the density remained low in all steps; and 5). the labeling density in chromatoid bodies gradually decreased from pachytene spermatocytes to spermatids at step 18. These spatiotemporal changes in the level of PHGPx during the differentiation of spermatogenic cells to sperm infer that PHGPx plays a diverse and important biological role in spermatogenesis.

Intercellular organelle traffic through cytoplasmic bridges in early spermatids of the rat: mechanisms of haploid gene product sharing

Stable cytoplasmic bridges (or ring canals) connecting the clone of spermatids are assumed to facilitate the sharing of haploid gene products and synchronous development of the cells. We have visualized these cytoplasmic bridges under phase-contrast optics and recorded the sharing of cytoplasmic material between the spermatids by a digital time-lapse imaging system ex vivo. A multitude of small (ca. 0.5 microm) granules were seen to move continuously over the bridges, but only 28% of those entering the bridge were actually transported into other cell. The average speed of the granules decreased significantly during the passage. Immunocytochemistry revealed that some of the shared granules contained haploid cell-specific gene product TRA54. We also demonstrate the novel function for the Golgi complex in acrosome system formation by showing that TRA54 is processed in Golgi complex and is transported into acrosome system of neighboring spermatid. In addition, we propose an intercellular transport function for the male germ cell-specific organelle chromatoid body. This mRNA containing organelle, ca. 1.8 microm in diameter, was demonstrated to go over the cytoplasmic bridge from one spermatid to another. Microtubule inhibitors prevented all organelle movements through the bridges and caused a disintegration of the chromatoid body. This is the first direct demonstration of an organelle traffic through cytoplasmic bridges in mammalian spermatogenesis. Golgi-derived haploid gene products are shared between spermatids, and an active involvement of the chromatoid body in intercellular material transport between round spermatids is proposed.