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Navid S, Saadatian Z, Talebi A, Toolee H, Seyedi S. The effect of biological mechanisms of melatonin on the proliferation of spermatogonial stem cells: a systematic review. Anat Cell Biol 2024; 57:163-171. [PMID: 38590095 PMCID: PMC11184433 DOI: 10.5115/acb.23.256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
In the last decade, melatonin has gained recognition as a potent scavenger and an effective antioxidant capable of neutralizing free radicals, including reactive oxygen species. Additionally, it exhibits anti-apoptotic properties. In this review, we will examine a compilation of articles that explore the cellular signaling function of melatonin on spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) and adjacent cells such as Sertoli and Leydig cells. These cells play a crucial role in the proliferation of SSCs both in vitro and in vivo. In this review, we analyze the function of melatonin in the proliferation of SSCs from other aspects. For this purpose, we examine the articles based on the presence of melatonin on SSCs in four groups: As a supplement in SSCs medium culture, SSCs three-dimensional culture system, SSCs freezing medium, and as a therapeutic factor in vivo. Mechanisms of growth and proliferation of SSCs were considered. The purpose of this study is to investigate the potential effects of melatonin as a powerful antioxidant or growth stimulant for SSCs, both in vivo and in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shadan Navid
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Gonabad University of Medical Science, Gonabad, Iran
| | - Zahra Saadatian
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Gonabad University of Medical Science, Gonabad, Iran
| | - Ali Talebi
- School of Medicine, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran
- Sexual Health and Fertility Research Center, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran
| | - Heidar Toolee
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran
| | - Saba Seyedi
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Gonabad University of Medical Sciences, Gonabad, Iran
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Tang S, Jones C, Dye J, Coward K. Dissociation, enrichment, and the in vitro formation of gonocyte colonies from cryopreserved neonatal bovine testicular tissues. Theriogenology 2023; 210:143-153. [PMID: 37499372 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.07.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2022] [Revised: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
Gonocytes play an important role in early development of spermatogonial stem cells and fertility preservation to acquire more high quality gonocytes in vitro for further germ cell-related research and applications, it is necessarily needed to enrich and in vitro propagate gonocytes from cryopreserved bovine testicular tissues. This study aimed to investigate the isolation, enrichment, and colony formation of gonocytes in vitro for germ cell expansion from cryopreserved neonatal bovine testicular tissues. The effects of several different in vitro culture conditions, including seeding density, temperature, serum replacement and extracellular matrices were investigated for the maintenance, proliferation and formation of gonocyte colonies in vitro. Frozen/thawed two-week-old neonatal bovine testicular tissues were digested and gonocytes were enriched using a Percoll density gradient. Cell viability was accessed by trypan blue staining and cell apoptosis was evaluated by TUNEL assays. Gonocytes were identified and confirmed by immunofluorescence with the PGP9.5 germ cell marker and the OCT4 pluripotency marker while Sertoli cells were stained with vimentin. We found that neonatal bovine gonocytes were efficiently enriched by a 30%-40% Percoll density gradient (p < 0.05). No significant differences were detected between neonatal bovine testicular cells cultured at 34 °C or 37 °C. The formation of gonocyte colonies was observed in culture medium supplemented with knockout serum replacement (KSR), but not fetal bovine serum (FBS), at a seeding density higher than 5.0 × 104 cells/well. A greater number of gonocyte colonies were observed in culture plates coated with laminin (38.00 ± 6.24/well) and Matrigel (38.67 ± 3.78/well) when compared to plates coated with collagen IV and fibronectin (p < 0.05). In conclusion, bovine neonatal gonocytes were able to be efficiently isolated, enriched and maintained in gonocyte colonies in vitro; the development of this protocol provides vital information for the clinical translation of this technology and the future restoration of human fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiyan Tang
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Women's Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Celine Jones
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Women's Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Julian Dye
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Department of Engineering Science, University of Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Kevin Coward
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Women's Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, United Kingdom.
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Hau RK, Wright SH, Cherrington NJ. In Vitro and In Vivo Models for Drug Transport Across the Blood-Testis Barrier. Drug Metab Dispos 2023; 51:1157-1168. [PMID: 37258305 PMCID: PMC10449102 DOI: 10.1124/dmd.123.001288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Revised: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The blood-testis barrier (BTB) is a selectively permeable membrane barrier formed by adjacent Sertoli cells (SCs) in the seminiferous tubules of the testes that develops intercellular junctional complexes to protect developing germ cells from external pressures. However, due to this inherent defense mechanism, the seminiferous tubule lumen can act as a pharmacological sanctuary site for latent viruses (e.g., Ebola, Zika) and cancers (e.g., leukemia). Therefore, it is critical to identify and evaluate BTB carrier-mediated drug delivery pathways to successfully treat these viruses and cancers. Many drugs are unable to effectively cross cell membranes without assistance from carrier proteins like transporters because they are large, polar, and often carry a charge at physiologic pH. SCs express transporters that selectively permit endogenous compounds, such as carnitine or nucleosides, across the BTB to support normal physiologic activity, although reproductive toxicants can also use these pathways, thereby circumventing the BTB. Certain xenobiotics, including select cancer therapeutics, antivirals, contraceptives, and environmental toxicants, are known to accumulate within the male genital tract and cause testicular toxicity; however, the transport pathways by which these compounds circumvent the BTB are largely unknown. Consequently, there is a need to identify the clinically relevant BTB transport pathways in in vitro and in vivo BTB models that recapitulate human pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics for these xenobiotics. This review summarizes the various in vitro and in vivo models of the BTB reported in the literature and highlights the strengths and weaknesses of certain models for drug disposition studies. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Drug disposition to the testes is influenced by the physical, physiological, and immunological components of the blood-testis barrier (BTB). But many compounds are known to cross the BTB by transporters, resulting in pharmacological and/or toxicological effects in the testes. Therefore, models that assess drug transport across the human BTB must adequately account for these confounding factors. This review identifies and discusses the benefits and limitations of various in vitro and in vivo BTB models for preclinical drug disposition studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raymond K Hau
- College of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, (R.K.H., N.J.C.) and College of Medicine, Department of Physiology, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona (S.H.W.)
| | - Stephen H Wright
- College of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, (R.K.H., N.J.C.) and College of Medicine, Department of Physiology, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona (S.H.W.)
| | - Nathan J Cherrington
- College of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, (R.K.H., N.J.C.) and College of Medicine, Department of Physiology, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona (S.H.W.)
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Hashimoto K, Odaka H, Ishikawa-Yamauchi Y, Nagata S, Nakamura H, Kimura H, Sato T, Makiyama K, Ogawa T. Culture-space control is effective in promoting haploid cell formation and spermiogenesis in vitro in neonatal mice. Sci Rep 2023; 13:12354. [PMID: 37524742 PMCID: PMC10390558 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-39323-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The classical organ culture method, in which tissue is placed at the gas‒liquid interphase, is effective at inducing mouse spermatogenesis. However, due to reginal variations in the supply of oxygen and nutrients within a tissue, the progress of spermatogenesis was observed only in limited areas of a tissue. In addition, haploid cell formation and its differentiation to spermatozoon, i.e. spermiogenesis, were infrequent and inefficient. Here, we show that the polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS)-chip ceiling (PC) method, which ensures a uniform supply of nutrients and oxygen throughout the tissue by pressing it into a thin, flat shape, can provide control over the culture space. We used this method to culture testis tissue from neonatal mice, aged 1 to 4 days, and found that modulating the culture space during the experiment by replacing one chip with another that had a higher ceiling effectively increased tissue growth. This adjustment also induced more efficient spermatogenesis, with the process of spermiogenesis being particularly promoted. Meiotic cells were observed from culture day 14 onward, and haploid cells were confirmed at the end of each experiment. This technique was also shown to be a sensitive assay for testicular toxicity. Culture-space control will be a critical regulation parameter for sophisticated tissue culture experiments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kiyoshi Hashimoto
- Department of Urology, Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama City University, Yokohama, Japan
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Yokohama City University, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Hisakazu Odaka
- Department of Urology, Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama City University, Yokohama, Japan
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Yokohama City University, Yokohama, Japan
| | | | - Shino Nagata
- Graduate School of Medical Life Science, Yokohama City University, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Hiroko Nakamura
- Micro/Nano Technology Center, Tokai University, Hiratsuka, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Kimura
- Micro/Nano Technology Center, Tokai University, Hiratsuka, Japan
| | - Takuya Sato
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Yokohama City University, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Kazuhide Makiyama
- Department of Urology, Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama City University, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Takehiko Ogawa
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Yokohama City University, Yokohama, Japan.
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Abugomaa A, Elbadawy M, Yamamoto H, Ayame H, Ishihara Y, Sato Y, Yamawaki H, Kaneda M, Usui T, Sasaki K. Establishment of a direct 2.5D organoid culture model using companion animal cancer tissues. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 154:113597. [PMID: 36030590 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.113597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2022] [Revised: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Like humans, cancer affects companion animals with similar genetic risks and incident rates. To improve treatment strategies for pet cancers, new research models are necessary. Patient-derived 3D organoid culture models are valuable and ensure the development of new effective therapies. In the previous study, we established a 3D organoid-derived 2.5D organoid culture model that recapitulated some characteristics of their parental 3D organoids. In the present study, we aimed to generate a 2.5D organoid culture model directly from cancer-diseased dogs and cats using special 2.5D media. The primary cultured cells in 2.5D media (direct 2.5D organoids) showed better attachment, growth, marker expression, and faster proliferation speed than those cultured in normal Dulbecco's Modified Eagle Medium media. The direct 2.5D organoids showed expression of each specific marker to their original cancer tissues and exhibited tumorigenesis in vivo. Moreover, the direct 2.5D organoids exhibited concentration-dependent responses to anti-cancer drugs, and different sensitivity profiles were shown among the strains. Our data suggest that the direct 2.5D organoid culture model might become a useful tool beyond 2D cell lines to study cancer biology in companion animals and could provide new platforms for screening the anti-cancer drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amira Abugomaa
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pharmacology, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, 3-5-8 Saiwai-cho, Fuchu, Tokyo 183-8509, Japan; Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mansoura University, 35516 Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Elbadawy
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pharmacology, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, 3-5-8 Saiwai-cho, Fuchu, Tokyo 183-8509, Japan; Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Benha University, Moshtohor, 13736 Toukh, Egypt.
| | - Haru Yamamoto
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pharmacology, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, 3-5-8 Saiwai-cho, Fuchu, Tokyo 183-8509, Japan
| | - Hiromi Ayame
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pharmacology, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, 3-5-8 Saiwai-cho, Fuchu, Tokyo 183-8509, Japan
| | - Yusuke Ishihara
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pharmacology, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, 3-5-8 Saiwai-cho, Fuchu, Tokyo 183-8509, Japan
| | - Yomogi Sato
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pharmacology, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, 3-5-8 Saiwai-cho, Fuchu, Tokyo 183-8509, Japan
| | - Hideyuki Yamawaki
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pharmacology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Kitasato University, 35-1 Higashi 23 ban-cho, Towada, Aomori 034-8628, Japan
| | - Masahiro Kaneda
- Laboratory of Veterinary Anatomy, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, 3-5-8 Saiwai-cho, Fuchu, Tokyo 183-8509, Japan
| | - Tatsuya Usui
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pharmacology, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, 3-5-8 Saiwai-cho, Fuchu, Tokyo 183-8509, Japan.
| | - Kazuaki Sasaki
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pharmacology, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, 3-5-8 Saiwai-cho, Fuchu, Tokyo 183-8509, Japan
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Tran KTD, Valli-Pulaski H, Colvin A, Orwig KE. Male fertility preservation and restoration strategies for patients undergoing gonadotoxic therapies†. Biol Reprod 2022; 107:382-405. [PMID: 35403667 PMCID: PMC9382377 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2021] [Revised: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Medical treatments for cancers or other conditions can lead to permanent infertility. Infertility is an insidious disease that impacts not only the ability to have a biological child but also the emotional well-being of the infertile individuals, relationships, finances, and overall health. Therefore, all patients should be educated about the effects of their medical treatments on future fertility and about fertility preservation options. The standard fertility preservation option for adolescent and adult men is sperm cryopreservation. Sperms can be frozen and stored for a long period, thawed at a later date, and used to achieve pregnancy with existing assisted reproductive technologies. However, sperm cryopreservation is not applicable for prepubertal patients who do not yet produce sperm. The only fertility preservation option available to prepubertal boys is testicular tissue cryopreservation. Next-generation technologies are being developed to mature those testicular cells or tissues to produce fertilization-competent sperms. When sperm and testicular tissues are not available for fertility preservation, inducing pluripotent stem cells derived from somatic cells, such as blood or skin, may provide an alternative path to produce sperms through a process call in vitro gametogenesis. This review describes standard and experimental options to preserve male fertility as well as the experimental options to produce functional spermatids or sperms from immature cryopreserved testicular tissues or somatic cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kien T D Tran
- Molecular Genetics and Developmental Biology Graduate Program, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA,Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA,Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Hanna Valli-Pulaski
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA,Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Amanda Colvin
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA,Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Kyle E Orwig
- Correspondence: Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Magee-Womens Research Institute, 204 Craft Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA. Tel: 412-641-2460; E-mail:
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7
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Richer G, Hobbs RM, Loveland KL, Goossens E, Baert Y. Long-Term Maintenance and Meiotic Entry of Early Germ Cells in Murine Testicular Organoids Functionalized by 3D Printed Scaffolds and Air-Medium Interface Cultivation. Front Physiol 2022; 12:757565. [PMID: 35002756 PMCID: PMC8739976 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.757565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Short-term germ cell survival and central tissue degeneration limit organoid cultures. Here, testicular organoids (TOs) were generated from two different mouse strains in 3D printed one-layer scaffolds (1LS) at the air-medium interface displaying tubule-like structures and Leydig cell functionality supporting long-term survival and differentiation of germ cells to the meiotic phase. Chimeric TOs, consisting of a mixture of primary testicular cells and EGFP+ germline stem (GS) cells, were cultured in two-layer scaffolds (2LSs) for better entrapment. They showed an improved spheroidal morphology consisting of one intact tubule-like structure and surrounding interstitium, representing the functional unit of a testis. However, GS cells did not survive long-term culture. Consequently, further optimization of the culture medium is required to enhance the maintenance and differentiation of germ cells. The opportunities TOs offer to manipulate somatic and germ cells are essential for the study of male infertility and the search for potential therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guillaume Richer
- Biology of the Testis Lab, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), University Medical Campus, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Robin M Hobbs
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Katherine L Loveland
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia.,Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash Medical Centre, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Ellen Goossens
- Biology of the Testis Lab, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), University Medical Campus, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Yoni Baert
- Biology of the Testis Lab, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), University Medical Campus, Brussels, Belgium
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Asiabi P, Dolmans MM, Ambroise J, Camboni A, Amorim CA. In vitro differentiation of theca cells from ovarian cells isolated from postmenopausal women. Hum Reprod 2021; 35:2793-2807. [PMID: 33326997 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deaa246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2020] [Revised: 07/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Can human theca cells (TCs) be differentiated in vitro? SUMMARY ANSWER It is possible to differentiate human TCs in vitro using a medium supplemented with growth factors and hormones. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY There are very few studies on the origin of TCs in mammalian ovaries. Precursor TCs have been described in neonatal mice ovaries, which can differentiate into TCs under the influence of factors from oocytes and granulosa cells (GCs). On the other hand, studies in large animal models have reported that stromal cells (SCs) isolated from the cortical ovarian layer can also differentiate into TCs. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION After obtaining informed consent, ovarian biopsies were taken from eight menopausal women (53-74 years of age) undergoing laparoscopic surgery for gynecologic disease not related to the ovaries. SCs were isolated from the ovarian cortex and in vitro cultured for 8 days in basic medium (BM) (G1), enriched with growth factors, FSH and LH in plastic (G2) or collagen substrate without (G3) or with (G4) a GC line. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS To confirm TC differentiation, relative mRNA levels for LH receptor (Lhr), steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (Star), cholesterol side-chain cleavage enzyme (Cyp11a1), cytochrome P450 17A1 (Cyp17a1), hydroxy-delta-5-steroid dehydrogenase, 3 beta- and steroid delta-isomerase 1 (Hsd3b1) and hydroxy-delta-5-steroid dehydrogenase, 3 beta- and steroid delta-isomerase 2 (Hsd3b2) were assessed. Immunohistochemistry was also performed for their protein detection and a specific marker was identified for TCs (aminopeptidase-N, CD13), as were markers for theca and small luteal cells (dipeptidyl peptidase IV (CD26) and Notch homolog 1, translocation-associated (NOTCH1)). Finally, we analyzed cell ultrastructure before (Day 0) and after in vitro culture (Day 8), and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and progesterone levels in the medium using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and ELISA, respectively. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Results obtained from qPCR showed a significant increase (P < 0.05) in mRNA levels of Lhr in F2 (floating cells in G2) and G4, Cyp17a1 in G1 and F1 (floating cells in G1) and Hsd3b2 in G1, G2, G3 and G4. Immunohistochemistry confirmed expression of each enzyme involved in the steroidogenic pathway at the protein stage. However, apart from G1, all other groups exhibited a significant (P < 0.05) rise in the number of CD13-positive cells. There was also a significant increase (P < 0.05) in NOTCH1-positive cells in G3 and G4. Ultrastructure analyses by TEM showed a distinct difference between groups and also versus Day 0. A linear trend with time revealed a significant gain (q < 0.001) in DHEA concentrations in the medium during the culture period in G1, G2, G3 and G4. It also demonstrated a statistical increase (q < 0.001) in G2, G3 and G4 groups, but G1 remained the same throughout culture in terms of progesterone levels. LARGE SCALE DATA N/A. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Shorter periods of in vitro culture (e.g. 2, 4 and 6 days) could have led to increased concentrations of differentiated TCs in G2, G3 and G4. In addition, a group of cells cultured in BM and accompanied by COV434 cells would be necessary to understand their role in the differentiation process. Finally, while our results demonstrate that TCs can be differentiated in vitro from cells isolated from the cortical layer of postmenopausal ovaries, we do not know if these cells are differentiated from a subpopulation of precursor TCs present in ovarian cortex or ovarian SCs in general. It is therefore necessary to identify specific markers for precursor TCs in human ovaries to understand the origin of these cells. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS This is a promising step toward understanding TC ontogenesis in the human ovary. Moreover, in vitro-generated human TCs can be used for studies on drug screening, as well as to understand TC-associated pathologies, such as androgen-secreting tumors and polycystic ovary syndrome. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This study was supported by grants from the Fonds National de la Recherche Scientifique de Belgique (FNRS) (C.A.A. is an FRS-FNRS Research Associate; grant MIS #F4535 16 awarded to C.A.A.; grant 5/4/150/5 awarded to M.M.D.; grant ASP-RE314 awarded to P.A.) and Foundation Against Cancer (grant 2018-042 awarded to A.C.). The authors declare no competing interests.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Asiabi
- Pôle de Recherche en Gynécologie, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - M M Dolmans
- Pôle de Recherche en Gynécologie, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium.,Gynecology and Andrology Department, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium
| | - J Ambroise
- Centre de Technologies Moléculaires Appliquées, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - A Camboni
- Pôle de Recherche en Gynécologie, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - C A Amorim
- Pôle de Recherche en Gynécologie, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
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Abstract
Organoids are 3-dimensional (3D) structures grown in vitro that emulate the cytoarchitecture and functions of true organs. Therefore, testicular organoids arise as an important model for research on male reproductive biology. These organoids can be generated from different sources of testicular cells, but most studies to date have used immature primary cells for this purpose. The complexity of the mammalian testicular cytoarchitecture and regulation poses a challenge for working with testicular organoids, because, ideally, these 3D models should mimic the organization observed in vivo. In this review, we explore the characteristics of the most important cell types present in the testicular organoid models reported to date and discuss how different factors influence the regulation of these cells inside the organoids and their outcomes. Factors such as the developmental or maturational stage of the Sertoli cells, for example, influence organoid generation and structure, which affect the use of these 3D models for research. Spermatogonial stem cells have been a focus recently, especially in regard to male fertility preservation. The regulation of the spermatogonial stem cell niche inside testicular organoids is discussed in the present review, as this research area may be positively affected by recent progress in organoid generation and tissue engineering. Therefore, the testicular organoid approach is a very promising model for male reproductive biology research, but more studies and improvements are necessary to achieve its full potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathalia de Lima e Martins Lara
- Comparative Biology and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Sadman Sakib
- Comparative Biology and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Ina Dobrinski
- Comparative Biology and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Correspondence: Ina Dobrinski, DrMedVet, MVSc, PhD, Comparative Biology and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, 404 HMRB, 3300 Hospital Dr NW, Calgary, Alberta T2N 4N1, Canada.
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10
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Sharma S, Venzac B, Burgers T, Le Gac S, Schlatt S. Microfluidics in male reproduction: is ex vivo culture of primate testis tissue a future strategy for ART or toxicology research? Mol Hum Reprod 2021; 26:179-192. [PMID: 31977028 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaaa006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2019] [Revised: 01/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The significant rise in male infertility disorders over the years has led to extensive research efforts to recapitulate the process of male gametogenesis in vitro and to identify essential mechanisms involved in spermatogenesis, notably for clinical applications. A promising technology to bridge this research gap is organ-on-chip (OoC) technology, which has gradually transformed the research landscape in ART and offers new opportunities to develop advanced in vitro culture systems. With exquisite control on a cell or tissue microenvironment, customized organ-specific structures can be fabricated in in vitro OoC platforms, which can also simulate the effect of in vivo vascularization. Dynamic cultures using microfluidic devices enable us to create stimulatory effect and non-stimulatory culture conditions. Noteworthy is that recent studies demonstrated the potential of continuous perfusion in OoC systems using ex vivo mouse testis tissues. Here we review the existing literature and potential applications of such OoC systems for male reproduction in combination with novel bio-engineering and analytical tools. We first introduce OoC technology and highlight the opportunities offered in reproductive biology in general. In the subsequent section, we discuss the complex structural and functional organization of the testis and the role of the vasculature-associated testicular niche and fluid dynamics in modulating testis function. Next, we review significant technological breakthroughs in achieving in vitro spermatogenesis in various species and discuss the evidence from microfluidics-based testes culture studies in mouse. Lastly, we discuss a roadmap for the potential applications of the proposed testis-on-chip culture system in the field of primate male infertility, ART and reproductive toxicology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Swati Sharma
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Bastien Venzac
- Applied Microfluidics for BioEngineering Research, MESA+ Institute for Nanotechnology and TechMed Centre, University of Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - Thomas Burgers
- Applied Microfluidics for BioEngineering Research, MESA+ Institute for Nanotechnology and TechMed Centre, University of Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - Séverine Le Gac
- Applied Microfluidics for BioEngineering Research, MESA+ Institute for Nanotechnology and TechMed Centre, University of Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - Stefan Schlatt
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
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Wyns C, Kanbar M, Giudice MG, Poels J. Fertility preservation for prepubertal boys: lessons learned from the past and update on remaining challenges towards clinical translation. Hum Reprod Update 2020; 27:433-459. [PMID: 33326572 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmaa050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2020] [Revised: 09/25/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Childhood cancer incidence and survivorship are both on the rise. However, many lifesaving treatments threaten the prepubertal testis. Cryopreservation of immature testicular tissue (ITT), containing spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs), as a fertility preservation (FP) option for this population is increasingly proposed worldwide. Recent achievements notably the birth of non-human primate (NHP) progeny using sperm developed in frozen-thawed ITT autografts has given proof of principle of the reproductive potential of banked ITT. Outlining the current state of the art on FP for prepubertal boys is crucial as some of the boys who have cryopreserved ITT since the early 2000s are now in their reproductive age and are already seeking answers with regards to their fertility. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE In the light of past decade achievements and observations, this review aims to provide insight into relevant questions for clinicians involved in FP programmes. Have the indications for FP for prepubertal boys changed over time? What is key for patient counselling and ITT sampling based on the latest achievements in animals and research performed with human ITT? How far are we from clinical application of methods to restore reproductive capacity with cryostored ITT? SEARCH METHODS An extensive search for articles published in English or French since January 2010 to June 2020 using keywords relevant to the topic of FP for prepubertal boys was made in the MEDLINE database through PubMed. Original articles on fertility preservation with emphasis on those involving prepubertal testicular tissue, as well as comprehensive and systematic reviews were included. Papers with redundancy of information or with an absence of a relevant link for future clinical application were excluded. Papers on alternative sources of stem cells besides SSCs were excluded. OUTCOMES Preliminary follow-up data indicate that around 27% of boys who have undergone testicular sampling as an FP measure have proved azoospermic and must therefore solely rely on their cryostored ITT to ensure biologic parenthood. Auto-transplantation of ITT appears to be the first technique that could enter pilot clinical trials but should be restricted to tissue free of malignant cells. While in vitro spermatogenesis circumvents the risk linked to cancer cell contamination and has led to offspring in mice, complete spermatogenesis has not been achieved with human ITT. However, generation of haploid germ cells paves the way to further studies aimed at completing the final maturation of germ cells and increasing the efficiency of the processes. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Despite all the research done to date, FP for prepubertal boys remains a relatively young field and is often challenging to healthcare providers, patients and parents. As cryopreservation of ITT is now likely to expand further, it is important not only to acknowledge some of the research questions raised on the topic, e.g. the epigenetic and genetic integrity of gametes derived from strategies to restore fertility with banked ITT but also to provide healthcare professionals worldwide with updated knowledge to launch proper multicollaborative care pathways in the field and address clinical issues that will come-up when aiming for the child's best interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine Wyns
- Andrology lab, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique (IREC), Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium.,Department of Gynecology-Andrology, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Marc Kanbar
- Andrology lab, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique (IREC), Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium.,Department of Gynecology-Andrology, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Maria Grazia Giudice
- Andrology lab, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique (IREC), Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium.,Department of Gynecology-Andrology, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Jonathan Poels
- Andrology lab, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique (IREC), Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium.,Department of Gynecology-Andrology, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium
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12
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Salian SR, Pandya RK, Laxminarayana SLK, Krishnamurthy H, Cheredath A, Tholeti P, Uppangala S, Kalthur G, Majumdar S, Schlatt S, Adiga SK. Impact of Temperature and Time Interval Prior to Immature Testicular-Tissue Organotypic Culture on Cellular Niche. Reprod Sci 2020; 28:2161-2173. [PMID: 33319342 PMCID: PMC8289760 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-020-00396-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2020] [Accepted: 11/12/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Cryopreservation of immature-testicular-tissue (ITT) prior to gonadotoxic treatment, while experimental, is the only recommended option for fertility preservation in prepubertal boys. The handling and manipulation of ITT before cryopreservation could influence the functionality of cells during fertility restoration, which this study explored by evaluating cellular niche and quality of mouse ITT subjected to various temperatures and time durations in vitro. ITT from 6-day-old mice were handled at ultraprofound-hypothermic, profound-hypothermic, and mild-warm-ischemic temperatures for varying time periods prior to 14-day organotypic culture. Viability, functionality, synaptonemal complex and chromatin remodeling markers were assessed. Results have shown that cell viability, testosterone level, and in vitro proliferation ability did not change when ITT were held at ultraprofound-hypothermic-temperature up to 24 h, whereas cell viability was significantly reduced (P < 0.01), when held at profound-hypothermic-temperature for 24 h before culture. Further, cell viability and testosterone levels in cultured cells from profound-hypothermic group were comparable to corresponding ultraprofound-hypothermic group but with moderate reduction in postmeiotic cells (P < 0.01). In conclusion, holding ITT at ultraprofound-hypothermic-temperature is most suitable for organotypic culture, whereas short-term exposure at profound-hypothermic-temperature may compromise postmeiotic germ cell yield post in vitro culture. This data, albeit in mouse model, will have immense value in human prepubertal fertility restoration research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sujith Raj Salian
- Department of Clinical Embryology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, 576104, India
| | - Riddhi Kirit Pandya
- Department of Clinical Embryology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, 576104, India
| | | | | | - Aswathi Cheredath
- Department of Clinical Embryology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, 576104, India
| | - Prathima Tholeti
- Department of Clinical Embryology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, 576104, India
| | - Shubhashree Uppangala
- Department of Clinical Embryology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, 576104, India
| | - Guruprasad Kalthur
- Department of Clinical Embryology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, 576104, India
| | - Subeer Majumdar
- National Institute of Animal Biotechnology, Hyderabad, India
| | - Stefan Schlatt
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Albert-Schweitzer Campus 11, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Satish Kumar Adiga
- Department of Clinical Embryology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, 576104, India.
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Portela JMD, de Winter-Korver CM, van Daalen SKM, Meißner A, de Melker AA, Repping S, van Pelt AMM. Assessment of fresh and cryopreserved testicular tissues from (pre)pubertal boys during organ culture as a strategy for in vitro spermatogenesis. Hum Reprod 2020; 34:2443-2455. [PMID: 31858131 PMCID: PMC6936721 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dez180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2019] [Revised: 07/26/2019] [Accepted: 07/31/2019] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Can the organ culture method be applied to both fresh and cryopreserved human (pre)pubertal testicular tissue as a strategy for in vitro spermatogenesis? SUMMARY ANSWER Although induction of spermatogenesis was not achieved in vitro, testicular architecture, endocrine function and spermatogonial proliferation were maintained in both fresh and cryopreserved testicular tissues. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Cryopreservation of a testicular biopsy is increasingly offered as a fertility preservation strategy for prepubertal cancer patients. One of the proposed experimental approaches to restore fertility is the organ culture method, which, in the mouse model, successfully allows for in vitro development of spermatozoa from testicular biopsies. However, complete spermatogenesis from human prepubertal testicular tissue in such an organ culture system has not been demonstrated. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Testicular tissue was collected from nine (pre)pubertal boys diagnosed with cancer (ranging from 6 to 14 years of age) admitted for fertility preservation before treatment. Testicular biopsies were either immediately processed for culture or first cryopreserved, using a controlled slow freezing protocol, and thawed before culture. Organ culture of testicular fragments was performed in two different media for a maximum period of 5 weeks, targeting early cellular events (viability, meiosis and somatic differentiation) in vitro. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Fresh and cryopreserved-thawed testis fragments (1–2 mm3) were cultured at a gas–liquid interphase (34°C, 5% CO2) in Minimum Essential Medium alpha + 10% knock-out serum replacement medium containing 10−7 M melatonin and 10−6 M retinoic acid, with or without 3 IU/L FSH/LH supplementation. The effect of culture conditions on testicular fragments was weekly assessed by histological evaluation of germ cell development and immunohistochemical identification of spermatogonia (using MAGEA4), proliferative status of spermatogonia and Sertoli cells (using proliferating cell nuclear antigen [PCNA]), intratubular cell apoptosis (by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick-end labelling) and Sertoli cells maturation (using Anti-Müllerian Hormone [AMH] versus Androgen Receptor [AR]). Additionally, Leydig cells’ functionality was determined by measuring testosterone concentration in the culture media supernatants. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Neither fresh nor cryopreserved human (pre)pubertal testicular fragments were able to initiate spermatogenesis in our organ culture system. Nonetheless, our data suggest that fresh and cryopreserved testicular fragments have comparable functionality in the described organ culture conditions, as reflected by the absence of significant differences in any of the weekly evaluated functional parameters. Additionally, no significant differences were found between the two tested media when culturing fresh and cryopreserved human testicular fragments. Although spermatogonia survived and remained proliferative in all culture conditions, a significant reduction of the spermatogonial population (P ≤ 0.001) was observed over the culture period, justified by a combined reduction of proliferation activity (P ≤ 0.001) and increased intratubular cell apoptosis (P ≤ 0.001). We observed a transient increase in Sertoli cell proliferative activity, loss of AMH expression (P ≤ 0.001) but no induction of AR expression. Leydig cell endocrine function was successfully stimulated in vitro as indicated by increased testosterone production in all conditions throughout the entire culture period (P ≤ 0.02). LARGE SCALE DATA N/A LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Although not noticeable in this study, we cannot exclude that if an optimized culture method ensuring complete spermatogenesis in human testicular fragments is established, differences in functional or spermatogenic efficiency between fresh and cryopreserved tissue might be found. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS The current inability to initiate spermatogenesis in vitro from cryopreserved human testicular fragments should be included in the counselling of patients who are offered testicular tissue cryopreservation to preserve fertility. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This project was funded by EU-FP7-PEOPLE-2013-ITN 603568 `Growsperm’. None of the authors have competing interests. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER Not applicable.
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Affiliation(s)
- J M D Portela
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Research Institute Reproduction and Development, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - C M de Winter-Korver
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Research Institute Reproduction and Development, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - S K M van Daalen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Research Institute Reproduction and Development, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - A Meißner
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Research Institute Reproduction and Development, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - A A de Melker
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Research Institute Reproduction and Development, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - S Repping
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Research Institute Reproduction and Development, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - A M M van Pelt
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Research Institute Reproduction and Development, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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14
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Abe T, Nishimura H, Sato T, Suzuki H, Ogawa T, Suzuki T. Transcriptome analysis reveals inadequate spermatogenesis and immediate radical immune reactions during organ culture in vitro spermatogenesis. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2020; 530:732-738. [PMID: 32782148 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2020.06.161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 06/30/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Cultivation of neonatal mouse testis tissue can induce spermatogenesis and produce fertile sperms. However, in vitro spermatogenesis mediated by the current organ culture method comes short in fully mimicking the in vivo counterpart, partly due to a lack of knowledge underlying molecular phenotypes of in vitro spermatogenesis. In this study, we investigated transcriptome of cultured testis tissues using microarray method. Principle component analysis of the transcriptome data revealed delay and/or arrest of spermatogenesis and immediate radical immune reactions in the cultured testis tissues. The delay/arrest of spermatogenesis occurred before and during early meiotic phase, resulting in inefficient progression of meiosis. The immune reaction, on the other hand, was drastic and overwhelming, in which TLR4-NF-kB signaling was speculated to be involved. Notably, treatment with TAK242, an inhibitor of TLR4-NF-kB signaling pathway, ameliorated the macrophage activation which otherwise would exacerbate the inflammation. Thus, the present study revealed for the first time at molecular level that the deficiency of germ cell differentiation and the immense immune reaction are major abnormalities in the cultured testis tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takeru Abe
- Biopharmaceutical and Regenerative Sciences, Graduate School of Medical Life Science, Yokohama City University, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan; Laboratory for Cellular Function Conversion Technology, RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Hajime Nishimura
- Laboratory for Cellular Function Conversion Technology, RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Takuya Sato
- Biopharmaceutical and Regenerative Sciences, Graduate School of Medical Life Science, Yokohama City University, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Harukazu Suzuki
- Laboratory for Cellular Function Conversion Technology, RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Takehiko Ogawa
- Biopharmaceutical and Regenerative Sciences, Graduate School of Medical Life Science, Yokohama City University, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan.
| | - Takahiro Suzuki
- Laboratory for Cellular Function Conversion Technology, RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan; Functional Genomics, Graduate School of Medical Life Science, Yokohama City University, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan.
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15
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Richer G, Baert Y, Goossens E. In-vitro spermatogenesis through testis modelling: Toward the generation of testicular organoids. Andrology 2020; 8:879-891. [PMID: 31823507 PMCID: PMC7496450 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2019] [Revised: 10/17/2019] [Accepted: 12/04/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Background The testicular organoid concept has recently been introduced in tissue engineering to refer to testicular cell organizations modeling testicular architecture and function. The testicular organoid approach gives control over which and how cells reaggregate, which is not possible in organotypic cultures, thereby extending the applicability of in‐vitro spermatogenesis (IVS) systems. However, it remains unclear which culture method and medium allow reassociation of testicular cells into a functional testicular surrogate in‐vitro. Objective The aim of this paper is to review the different strategies that have been used in an attempt to create testicular organoids and generate spermatozoa. We want to provide an up‐to‐date list on culture methodologies and media compositions that have been used and determine their role in regulating tubulogenesis and differentiation of testicular cells. Search method A literature search was conducted in PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus to select studies reporting the reorganization of testicular cell suspensions in‐vitro, using the keywords: three‐dimensional culture, in‐vitro spermatogenesis, testicular organoid, testicular scaffold, and tubulogenesis. Papers published before the August 1, 2019, were selected. Outcome Only a limited number of studies have concentrated on recreating the testicular architecture in‐vitro. While some advances have been made in the testicular organoid research in terms of cellular reorganization, none of the described culture systems is adequate for the reproduction of both the testicular architecture and IVS. Conclusion Further improvements in culture methodology and medium composition have to be made before being able to provide both testicular tubulogenesis and spermatogenesis in‐vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guillaume Richer
- Biology of the Testis research Lab, Department of Reproduction, Genetics and Regenerative Medicine, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Yoni Baert
- Biology of the Testis research Lab, Department of Reproduction, Genetics and Regenerative Medicine, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Ellen Goossens
- Biology of the Testis research Lab, Department of Reproduction, Genetics and Regenerative Medicine, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
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16
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Portela JM, Mulder CL, van Daalen SK, de Winter-Korver CM, Stukenborg JB, Repping S, van Pelt AM. Strains matter: Success of murine in vitro spermatogenesis is dependent on genetic background. Dev Biol 2019; 456:25-30. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2019.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2019] [Revised: 08/07/2019] [Accepted: 08/13/2019] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
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17
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Oliver E, Stukenborg JB. Rebuilding the human testis in vitro. Andrology 2019; 8:825-834. [PMID: 31539453 PMCID: PMC7496374 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2019] [Revised: 08/21/2019] [Accepted: 09/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Increasing rates of male infertility have led to a greater need for relevant model systems to gain further insight into male fertility and its failings. Spermatogenesis and hormone production occur within distinct regions of the testis. Defined by specialized architecture and a diverse population of cell types, it is no surprise that disruption of this highly organized microenvironment can lead to infertility. To date, no robust in vitro system has facilitated full spermatogenesis resulting in the production of fertilization‐competent human spermatozoa. Here, we review a selection of current in vitro systems available for modelling the human testis microenvironment with focus on the progression of spermatogenesis and recapitulation of the testis microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Oliver
- NORDFERTIL Research Lab Stockholm, Childhood Cancer Research Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Solna, Sweden
| | - J-B Stukenborg
- NORDFERTIL Research Lab Stockholm, Childhood Cancer Research Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Solna, Sweden
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18
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Zhou Y, Zhang D, Hu D, Liu B, Peng J, Shen L, Long C, Yu Y, Zhang Y, Liu X, Tao X, Timashev P, Lin T, He D, Wei G. Retinoic acid: A potential therapeutic agent for cryptorchidism infertility based on investigation of flutamide-induced cryptorchid rats in vivo and in vitro. Reprod Toxicol 2019; 87:108-117. [PMID: 31170451 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2019.05.063] [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: 12/24/2018] [Revised: 05/07/2019] [Accepted: 05/25/2019] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Cryptorchidism is a common disorder in children and may cause infertility in adults. The BTB is essential for maintaining the microenvironment necessary for normal spermatogenesis. This study investigated whether retinoic acid (RA) may regulate the proteins that are essential for integrity of the BTB in cryptorchidism. Female Sprague-Dawley rats were administrated flutamide during late pregnancy to induce a model of cryptorchidism in male offspring. The concentrations of RA and BTB tight and gap junction protein levels were significantly lower in untreated cryptorchid pups compared with normal pups, but almost normal in cryptorchid pups given RA. Studies in vitro corroborated these findings. The sperm quality of RA-treated model pups was better compared with the untreated model. RA treatment may have therapeutic potential to restore retinoic acid and proteins associated with integrity of the BTB in cryptorchid testis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Zhou
- Department of Urology, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing 400014, China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, China
| | - Deying Zhang
- Department of Urology, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing 400014, China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, China; China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, China.
| | - Dong Hu
- Department of Urology, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing 400014, China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, China
| | - Bo Liu
- Department of Urology, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing 400014, China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, China
| | - Jinpu Peng
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Guizhou Provincial People's Hospital, Guiyang 550002, China
| | - Lianju Shen
- Department of Urology, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing 400014, China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, China; China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, China
| | - Chunlan Long
- Department of Urology, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing 400014, China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, China; China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, China
| | - Yihang Yu
- Department of Urology, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing 400014, China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, China
| | - Yuanyuan Zhang
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, 27101, USA
| | - Xing Liu
- Department of Urology, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing 400014, China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, China; China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, China
| | - Xu Tao
- Biomanufacturing Center, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Peter Timashev
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Sechenov University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Tao Lin
- Department of Urology, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing 400014, China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, China; China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, China
| | - Dawei He
- Department of Urology, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing 400014, China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, China; China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, China
| | - Guanghui Wei
- Department of Urology, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing 400014, China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, China; China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, China.
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Baert Y, Dvorakova-Hortova K, Margaryan H, Goossens E. Mouse in vitro spermatogenesis on alginate-based 3D bioprinted scaffolds. Biofabrication 2019; 11:035011. [PMID: 30921781 DOI: 10.1088/1758-5090/ab1452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
In vitro spermatogenesis (IVS) has already been successfully achieved in rodents by organotypic and soft matrix culture systems. However, the former does not allow single cell input, and the latter presents as a simple thick layer in which all cells are embedded. We explored a new culture system using a mouse model by employing an alginate-based hydrogel and 3D bioprinting, to control scaffold design and cell deposition. We produced testicular constructs consisting of printed cell-free scaffolds (CFS) with prepubertal testicular cells (TC) in their easy-to-access macropores. Here, the pores represented the only cell compartment (TC/CFS). Double-cell compartment testicular constructs were achieved by culturing magnetic-activated cell sorting-enriched epithelial cells in the pores of interstitial cell-laden scaffolds (CD49f+/CLS). Cell spheres formed in the pores in the weeks following cell seeding on both CFS and CLS. Although restoration of the tubular architecture was not observed, patches of post-meiotic cells including elongated spermatids were found in 66% of TC/CFS. Differentiation up to the level of round spermatids and elongated spermatids was observed in all and 33% of CD49f+/CLS constructs, respectively. Organ culture served as the reference method for IVS, with complete spermatogenesis identified in 80% of cultivated prepubertal tissue fragments. So far, this is the first report applying a 3D bioprinting approach for IVS. Further optimization of the scaffold design and seeding parameters might be permissive for tubular architecture recreation and thereby increase the efficiency of IVS in printed testicular constructs. While it remains to be tested whether the gametes generated on the alginate-based scaffolds can support embryogenesis following IVF, this IVS approach might be useful for (patho)physiological studies and drug-screening applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoni Baert
- Biology of the Testis, Research Laboratory for Reproduction, Genetics and Regenerative Medicine, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Laarbeeklaan 103, B-1090 Brussels, Belgium. Polymer Chemistry & Biomaterials Research Group, Department of Organic Chemistry, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281 S4 Bis, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium
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Albalushi H, Sahlin L, Åkesson E, Kurek M, Kjartansdóttir KR, Lindh R, Söder O, Rotstein E, Hovatta O, Stukenborg JB. Hormone Production by Human First-Trimester Gonads in a Functional In Vitro System. Endocrinology 2019; 160:133-142. [PMID: 30418555 DOI: 10.1210/en.2018-00734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2018] [Accepted: 11/03/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
In the past, explant tissue-culture methodologies have been used to grow gonads and study their development. Results from in vitro cultures of human gonads showed limited progress toward gonadal cell differentiation and were focused mainly on germ-cell differentiation. Thus, detailed studies focusing on human first-trimester gonadal tissue functionality in vitro are still missing. In this study we investigated the endocrine function of human first-trimester gonads in vitro. We included 27 female and 28 male gonadal samples, derived from a total of 55 cases, at postconceptional ages of 4.5 to 10.5 weeks. Tissues were cultured using an explant tissue-culture system for 14 days. Assays for testosterone (liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry), anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH; ELISA), and inhibin B (ELISA) were performed using media collected after 7 and 14 days of culture. We demonstrated sex- and age-dependent secretion profiles of testosterone, AMH, and inhibin B in the culture media, which resemble the pattern of hormone production in human gonads in vivo, from the few available studies at the same age range. Our study shows that explant tissue-culture conditions are robust for culture of human first-trimester gonadal somatic cells. Thus, it can be used to study human gonadal development and related diseases as well as the effect of potentially hormone-disturbing substances in human gonads during development. However, detailed molecular studies are needed for better understanding of the mechanistic control of the endocrine function of human first-trimester gonads.
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Affiliation(s)
- Halima Albalushi
- NORDFERTIL Research Laboratory Stockholm, Solna, Sweden
- Pediatric Endocrinology Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet and University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Sultan Qaboos University, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Muscat, Oman
| | - Lena Sahlin
- NORDFERTIL Research Laboratory Stockholm, Solna, Sweden
- Pediatric Endocrinology Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet and University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Elisabet Åkesson
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge, Sweden
- R&D Unit, Stockholms Sjukhem, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Magdalena Kurek
- NORDFERTIL Research Laboratory Stockholm, Solna, Sweden
- Pediatric Endocrinology Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet and University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Kristín Rós Kjartansdóttir
- Pediatric Endocrinology Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet and University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Rika Lindh
- Pediatric Endocrinology Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet and University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Olle Söder
- Pediatric Endocrinology Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet and University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Emilia Rotstein
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology (CLINTEC), Karolinska Institutet and University Hospital Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Outi Hovatta
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology (CLINTEC), Karolinska Institutet and University Hospital Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Jan-Bernd Stukenborg
- NORDFERTIL Research Laboratory Stockholm, Solna, Sweden
- Pediatric Endocrinology Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet and University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
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Special Issue Devoted to a New Field of Regenerative Medicine: Reproductive Tissue Engineering. Ann Biomed Eng 2018; 45:1589-1591. [PMID: 28567657 DOI: 10.1007/s10439-017-1862-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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Alves-Lopes JP, Stukenborg JB. Testicular organoids: a new model to study the testicular microenvironment in vitro? Hum Reprod Update 2017; 24:176-191. [PMID: 29281008 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmx036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2017] [Revised: 11/20/2017] [Accepted: 11/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In recent decades, a broad range of strategies have been applied to model the testicular microenvironment in vitro. These models have been utilized to study testicular physiology and development. However, a system that allows investigations into testicular organogenesis and its impact in the spermatogonial stem-cell (SSC) niche in vitro has not been developed yet. Recently, the creation of tissue-specific organ-like structures called organoids has resurged, helping researchers to answer scientific questions that previous in vitro models could not help to elucidate. So far, a small number of publications have concerned the generation of testicular organoids and their application in the field of reproductive medicine and biology. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE Here, we aim to elucidate whether testicular organoids might be useful in answering current scientific questions about the regulation and function of the SSC niche as well as germ cell proliferation and differentiation, and whether or not the existing in vitro models are already sufficient to address them. Moreover, we would like to discuss how an organoid system can be a better solution to address these prominent scientific problems in our field, by the creation of a rationale parallel to those in other areas where organoid systems have been successfully utilized. SEARCH METHODS We comprehensively reviewed publications regarding testicular organoids and the methods that most closely led to the formation of these organ-like structures in vitro by searching for the following terms in both PubMed and the Web of Science database: testicular organoid, seminiferous tubule 3D culture, Sertoli cell 3D culture, testicular cord formation in vitro, testicular morphogenesis in vitro, germ cell 3D culture, in vitro spermatogenesis, testicular de novo morphogenesis, seminiferous tubule de novo morphogenesis, seminiferous tubule-like structures, testicular in vitro model and male germ cell niche in vitro, with no restrictions to any publishing year. The inclusion criteria were based on the relation with the main topic (i.e. testicular organoids, testicular- and seminiferous-like structures as in vitro models), methodology applied (i.e. in vitro culture, culture dimensions (2D, 3D), testicular cell suspension or fragments) and outcome of interest (i.e. organization in vitro). Publications about grafting of testicular tissue, germ-cell transplantation and female germ-cell culture were excluded. OUTCOMES The application of organoid systems is making its first steps in the field of reproductive medicine and biology. A restricted number of publications have reported and characterized testicular organoids and even fewer have denominated such structures by this method. However, we detected that a clear improvement in testicular cell reorganization is recognized when 3D culture conditions are utilized instead of 2D conditions. Depending on the scientific question, testicular organoids might offer a more appropriate in vitro model to investigate testicular development and physiology because of the easy manipulation of cell suspensions (inclusion or exclusion of a specific cell population), the fast reorganization of these structures and the controlled in vitro conditions, to the same extent as with other organoid strategies reported in other fields. WIDER IMPLICATIONS By way of appropriate research questions, we might use testicular organoids to deepen our basic understanding of testicular development and the SSC niche, leading to new methodologies for male infertility treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- João Pedro Alves-Lopes
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, NORDFERTIL Research Lab Stockholm, Paediatric Endocrinology Unit, Q2:08, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, SE-17176 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jan-Bernd Stukenborg
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, NORDFERTIL Research Lab Stockholm, Paediatric Endocrinology Unit, Q2:08, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, SE-17176 Stockholm, Sweden
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