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Guo S, Liu Y, Xu Y, Gai K, Cong B, Xing K, Qi X, Wang X, Xiao L, Long C, Guo Y, Chen L, Sheng X. Identification of key genes affecting sperm motility in chicken based on whole-transcriptome sequencing. Poult Sci 2023; 102:103135. [PMID: 37856906 PMCID: PMC10590750 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2023.103135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Revised: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Sperm motility is an important index for the evaluation of semen quality. Improving sperm motility is important to improve reproductive performance, promote breeding process, and reduce production cost. However, the molecular mechanisms regulating sperm motility in chickens remain unclear. In this study, histological observation and whole-transcriptome analysis were performed on testicular tissue of chickens with high and low sperm motility. Histological observations showed that roosters with high sperm motility exhibited better semen quality than those with low sperm motility. In addition, the germinal epithelial cells of roosters with low sperm motility were loosely arranged and contained many vacuoles. RNA-seq results revealed the expression of 23,033 mRNAs, 2,893 lncRNAs, and 515 miRNAs in chicken testes. Among them, there were 417 differentially expressed mRNAs (DEmRNAs), 106 differentially expressed lncRNAs (DElncRNAs), and 15 differentially expressed miRNAs (DEmiRNAs) between high and low sperm motility testes. These differentially expressed genes were involved in the G protein-coupled receptor signaling pathway, cilia structure, Wnt signaling, MAPK signaling, GnRH signaling, and mTOR signaling. By integrating the competitive relationships between DEmRNAs, DElncRNAs, and DEmiRNAs, we identified the regulatory pathway of MSTRG.3077.3/MSTRG.9085.1-gga-miR-138-5p-CADM1 and MSTRG.2290.1-gga-miR-142-3p-GNAQ/PPP3CA as crucial in the modulation of chicken sperm motility. This study provides new insights into the function and mechanism of ceRNAs in regulating sperm motility in chicken testes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shihao Guo
- Animal Science and Technology College, Beijing University of Agriculture, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Yizheng Liu
- Animal Science and Technology College, Beijing University of Agriculture, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Yaxi Xu
- Animal Science and Technology College, Beijing University of Agriculture, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Kai Gai
- Animal Science and Technology College, Beijing University of Agriculture, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Bailin Cong
- Animal Science and Technology College, Beijing University of Agriculture, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Kai Xing
- Animal Science and Technology College, Beijing University of Agriculture, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Xiaolong Qi
- Animal Science and Technology College, Beijing University of Agriculture, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Xiangguo Wang
- Animal Science and Technology College, Beijing University of Agriculture, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Longfei Xiao
- Animal Science and Technology College, Beijing University of Agriculture, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Cheng Long
- Animal Science and Technology College, Beijing University of Agriculture, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Yong Guo
- Animal Science and Technology College, Beijing University of Agriculture, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Li Chen
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Beijing University of Agriculture, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Xihui Sheng
- Animal Science and Technology College, Beijing University of Agriculture, Beijing 102206, China.
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2
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Amiri N, Mohammadi P, Allahgholi A, Salek F, Amini E. The potential of sertoli cells (SCs) derived exosomes and its therapeutic efficacy in male reproductive disorders. Life Sci 2022; 312:121251. [PMID: 36463941 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2022.121251] [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: 08/24/2022] [Revised: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
In the male reproductive system, seminiferous tubules in testis are lined by a complex stratified epithelium containing two distinct populations of cells, spermatogenic cells that develop into spermatozoa, and sertoli cells (SCs) that mainly support and nourish spermatogenic cell lineage as well as exerting powerful effect on men reproductive capacity. Different varieties of proteins, hormones, exosomes and growth factors are secreted by SCs. There are different kinds of junctions found between SCs called BTB. It was elucidated that complete absence of BTB or its dysfunction leads to infertility. To promote spermatogenesis, crosstalk of SCs with spermatogenic cells plays an important role. The ability of SCs to support germ cell productivity and development is related to its various products carrying out several functions. Exosomes (EXOs) are one of the main EVs with 30-100 nm size generating from endocytic pathway. They are produced in different parts of male reproductive system including epididymis, prostate and SCs. The most prominent characteristics of SC-based exosomes is considered mutual interaction of sertoli cells with spermatogonial stem cells and Leydig cells mainly through establishment of intercellular communication. Exosomes have gotten a lot of interest because of their role in pathobiological processes and as a cell free therapy which led to developing multiple exosome isolation methods based on different principles. Transmission of nucleic acids, proteins, and growth factors via SC-based exosomes and exosomal miRNAs are proved to have potential to be valuable biomarkers in male reproductive disease. Among testicular abnormalities, non-obstructive azoospermia and testicular cancer have been more contributed with SCs performance. The identification of key proteins and miRNAs involved in the signaling pathways related with spermatogenesis, can serve as diagnostic and regenerative targets in male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Narjes Amiri
- Department of Cell and Molecular Sciences, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Kharazmi University, Tehran 15719-14911, Iran
| | - Paria Mohammadi
- Department of Cell and Molecular Sciences, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Kharazmi University, Tehran 15719-14911, Iran
| | - Atefeh Allahgholi
- Department of Cell and Molecular Sciences, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Kharazmi University, Tehran 15719-14911, Iran
| | - Farzaneh Salek
- Department of Biology, Mashhad Branch, Islamic Azad University, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Elaheh Amini
- Department of Animal Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Kharazmi University, Tehran, Iran.
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3
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Kaddour H, Kopcho S, Lyu Y, Shouman N, Paromov V, Pratap S, Dash C, Kim EY, Martinson J, McKay H, Epeldegui M, Margolick JB, Stapleton JT, Okeoma CM. HIV-infection and cocaine use regulate semen extracellular vesicles proteome and miRNAome in a manner that mediates strategic monocyte haptotaxis governed by miR-128 network. Cell Mol Life Sci 2021; 79:5. [PMID: 34936021 PMCID: PMC9134786 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-021-04068-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2021] [Revised: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are regulators of cell-cell interactions and mediators of horizontal transfer of bioactive molecules between cells. EV-mediated cell-cell interactions play roles in physiological and pathophysiological processes, which maybe modulated by exposure to pathogens and cocaine use. However, the effect of pathogens and cocaine use on EV composition and function are not fully understood. RESULTS Here, we used systems biology and multi-omics analysis to show that HIV infection (HIV +) and cocaine (COC) use (COC +) promote the release of semen-derived EVs (SEV) with dysregulated extracellular proteome (exProtein), miRNAome (exmiR), and exmiR networks. Integrating SEV proteome and miRNAome revealed a significant decrease in the enrichment of disease-associated, brain-enriched, and HIV-associated miR-128-3p (miR-128) in HIV + COC + SEV with a concomitant increase in miR-128 targets-PEAK1 and RND3/RhoE. Using two-dimensional-substrate single cell haptotaxis, we observed that in the presence of HIV + COC + SEV, contact guidance provided by the extracellular matrix (ECM, collagen type 1) network facilitated far-ranging haptotactic cues that guided monocytes over longer distances. Functionalizing SEV with a miR-128 mimic revealed that the strategic changes in monocyte haptotaxis are in large part the result of SEV-associated miR-128. CONCLUSIONS We propose that compositionally and functionally distinct HIV + COC + and HIV-COC- SEVs and their exmiR networks may provide cells relevant but divergent haptotactic guidance in the absence of chemotactic cues, under both physiological and pathophysiological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hussein Kaddour
- Department of Pharmacology, Stony Brook University Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook, NY, 11794-8651, USA
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Tarrytown, NY, 10591, USA
| | - Steven Kopcho
- Department of Pharmacology, Stony Brook University Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook, NY, 11794-8651, USA
| | - Yuan Lyu
- Department of Pharmacology, Stony Brook University Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook, NY, 11794-8651, USA
| | - Nadia Shouman
- Department of Pharmacology, Stony Brook University Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook, NY, 11794-8651, USA
| | - Victor Paromov
- CRISALIS, School of Graduate Studies and Research, Proteomics Core, Meharry Medical College, Nashville, TN, 37208, USA
| | - Siddharth Pratap
- CRISALIS, School of Graduate Studies and Research, Bioinformatics Core, Meharry Medical College, Nashville, TN, 37208, USA
| | - Chandravanu Dash
- Department of Biochemistry and Cancer Biology, Meharry Medical College, Nashville, TN, 37208, USA
| | - Eun-Young Kim
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Jeremy Martinson
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, Graduate School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA
| | - Heather McKay
- Department of Epidemiology, The Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Marta Epeldegui
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, UCLA AIDS Institute and UCLA Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, Los Angeles, USA
- David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, UCLA AIDS Institute, Los Angeles, USA
- UCLA Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, USA
| | - Joseph B Margolick
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, 21207, USA
| | - Jack T Stapleton
- Departments of Internal Medicine, Microbiology and Immunology, University of Iowa and Iowa City Veterans Administration Healthcare, Iowa City, IA, 52242-1081, USA
| | - Chioma M Okeoma
- Department of Pharmacology, Stony Brook University Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook, NY, 11794-8651, USA.
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4
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Faja F, Finocchi F, Carlini T, Rizzo F, Pallotti F, Spaziani M, Balercia G, Lenzi A, Paoli D, Lombardo F. PDE11A gene polymorphism in testicular cancer: sperm parameters and hormonal profile. J Endocrinol Invest 2021; 44:2273-2284. [PMID: 33661511 PMCID: PMC8421290 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-021-01534-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Accepted: 02/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Testicular germ cell tumours (TGCTs) is the most common malignancy among young adult males. The etiology is multifactorial and both environmental and genetic factors play an important role in the origin and development of TGCT. Genetic susceptibility may result from the interaction of multiple common and low-penetrance genetic variants and one of the main candidate genes is PDE11A. Many PDE11A polymorphisms were found responsible for a reduced PDE activity in TGCT patients, who often also display impaired hormone and sperm profile. The aim of this study was to investigate testicular function and PDE11A sequence in testicular cancer cases. METHODS Semen analysis was performed in 116 patients with unilateral and bilateral sporadic TGCTs and in 120 cancer-free controls. We also investigated hormone profile and PDE11A polymorphisms using peripheral blood samples. RESULTS Our data revealed that TGCT patients showed lower testosterone levels, higher gonadotropins levels and worse semen quality than controls, although the mean and the medians of sperm parameters are within the reference limits. PDE11A sequencing detected ten polymorphisms not yet associated with TGCTs before. Among these, G223A in homozygosity and A288G in heterozygosity were significantly associated with a lower risk of testicular tumour and they displayed a positive correlation with total sperm number. CONCLUSIONS Our findings highlight the key role of PDE11A in testis and suggest the presence of an underlying complex and fine molecular mechanism which controls testis-specific gene expression and susceptibility to testicular cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- F. Faja
- Laboratory of Seminology - “Loredana Gandini” Sperm Bank, Department of Experimental Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - F. Finocchi
- Laboratory of Seminology - “Loredana Gandini” Sperm Bank, Department of Experimental Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, Italy
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Umberto I Hospital, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - T. Carlini
- Laboratory of Seminology - “Loredana Gandini” Sperm Bank, Department of Experimental Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - F. Rizzo
- Laboratory of Seminology - “Loredana Gandini” Sperm Bank, Department of Experimental Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - F. Pallotti
- Laboratory of Seminology - “Loredana Gandini” Sperm Bank, Department of Experimental Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - M. Spaziani
- Hormone Laboratory, Department of Experimental Medicine - Medical Pathophysiology Section, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - G. Balercia
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Umberto I Hospital, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - A. Lenzi
- Laboratory of Seminology - “Loredana Gandini” Sperm Bank, Department of Experimental Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - D. Paoli
- Laboratory of Seminology - “Loredana Gandini” Sperm Bank, Department of Experimental Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - F. Lombardo
- Laboratory of Seminology - “Loredana Gandini” Sperm Bank, Department of Experimental Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, Italy
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5
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Zhao XY, Gao YL, Li DF, Liu HC, Zhu RF, Zhu CT. Diagnostic performance of microRNAs in testicular germ cell tumors: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Aging (Albany NY) 2021; 13:19657-19677. [PMID: 34343969 PMCID: PMC8386578 DOI: 10.18632/aging.203376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The sensitivity (Sen) of classic biomarkers for the diagnosis of testicular germ cell tumors (TGCTs) is currently low. Previous studies have shown the diagnostic potential of microRNAs (miRNAs) for TGCTs; however, the results of these studies are inconsistent. Therefore, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate their diagnostic value. PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science databases were systematically searched until September 30, 2020 and 18 trials from 11 studies involving 2,068 participants were included in this meta-analysis. Using a bivariate mixed-effects meta-analysis model, the pooled Sen, specificity (Spe), positive likelihood ratio (PLR), negative likelihood ratio (NLR), diagnostic odds ratio (DOR), and area under the curve (AUC) with 95% confidence interval values of total miRNAs were 0.83 (0.73–0.90), 0.95 (0.89–0.98), 15.79 (7.41–33.66), 0.18 (0.11–0.29), 87.13 (41.99–180.82), and 0.95 (0.93–0.97), respectively; however, the observed values of single miR-371a-3p were 0.84 (0.76–0.90), 0.95 (0.91–0.98), 18.41 (9.69–34.97), 0.17 (0.11–0.26), 111.56 (47.72–260.80), and 0.97 (0.95–0.98), respectively. Subgroup analysis revealed that miRNAs that included miR-371a-3p showed higher predictive performance than those that did not (P < 0.05). This research identified that miR-371a-3p has a high diagnostic value for TGCTs, except teratoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi-Yi Zhao
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai 200233, China
| | - Yu-Lu Gao
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai 200233, China.,Department of Laboratory Medicine, Kunshan Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Kunshan 215300, China
| | - Dan-Feng Li
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai 200233, China
| | - Hong-Chao Liu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai 200233, China
| | - Rui-Fang Zhu
- Editorial Department, First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Chang-Tai Zhu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai 200233, China
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6
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Leão R, Albersen M, Looijenga LHJ, Tandstad T, Kollmannsberger C, Murray MJ, Culine S, Coleman N, Belge G, Hamilton RJ, Dieckmann KP. Circulating MicroRNAs, the Next-Generation Serum Biomarkers in Testicular Germ Cell Tumours: A Systematic Review. Eur Urol 2021; 80:456-466. [PMID: 34175151 DOI: 10.1016/j.eururo.2021.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Clinical management of testicular germ cell tumours (GCTs) is hampered by low sensitivity and specificity of the biomarkers currently in use. Circulating microRNAs (miRs) might offer the potential to address areas of unmet clinical need. OBJECTIVE To systematically evaluate the evidence for clinical applications of serum levels of miR302/367 and miR371-3 in adult testicular GCTs in terms of primary diagnosis, various clinical scenarios, and the costs of clinical implementation. EVIDENCE ACQUISITION We performed a critical review of PubMed/Medline, Embase and the Cochrane Library in January 2021 in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-analysis (PRISMA) statement. EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS Thirty-one manuscripts addressed miR performance and potential clinical use in testicular GCT. Of these, 23 evaluated the utility in primary diagnosis, seven in early-stage disease, and 13 in metastatic disease, and two addressed the costs of clinical implementation. Of the various miRs studied, miR-371a-3p appears the most useful and potentially the only one that needs to be assayed, with an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve >0.90, sensitivity of 89-96%, and specificity of >90% for both seminoma and nonseminoma, surpassing the classic serum tumour markers. The miRs studied to date are not elevated in cases with teratoma only. Levels of miR-371a-3p correlate with primary tumour mass, clinical stage, and International Germ Cell Cancer Collaborative Group risk groups. Serial measurements mirror treatment efficacy in all clinical stages. CONCLUSIONS Circulating miRNA levels, particularly of miR-371a-3p, have potential for incorporation in clinical practice and may aid in clinical decision-making in various clinical scenarios in GCT. PATIENT SUMMARY We analysed the current evidence on the usefulness of blood levels of molecules called microRNAs in the management of testicular tumours. The microRNA-371a-3p molecule has better sensitivity and specificity than the markers currently being measured. This new biomarker may soon have a place in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ricardo Leão
- Department of Urology, Hospital de Braga, Hospitais CUF, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Maarten Albersen
- Department of Urology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | | | - Torgrim Tandstad
- The Cancer Clinic, St. Olav's University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Christian Kollmannsberger
- Department of Medicine, Medical Oncology Division, BC Cancer, Vancouver Centre, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Matthew J Murray
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK; Department of Paediatric Haematology and Oncology, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Stephane Culine
- Department of Medical Oncology, Hôpital Saint-Louis, AP-HP, Paris, France; Paris-Diderot University, Paris, France
| | - Nicholas Coleman
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK; Department of Histopathology, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
| | - Gazanfer Belge
- Faculty of Biology and Chemistry, University of Bremen, Bremen, Germany
| | - Robert J Hamilton
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Toronto, Canada
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7
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Mørup N, Stakaitis R, Golubickaite I, Riera M, Dalgaard MD, Schierup MH, Jørgensen N, Daugaard G, Juul A, Almstrup K. Small RNAs in Seminal Plasma as Novel Biomarkers for Germ Cell Tumors. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13102346. [PMID: 34067956 PMCID: PMC8152278 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13102346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Revised: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Testicular cancer is the most common cancer among young men. It is rarely diagnosed at early stages, being only detected with a highly invasive procedure that presents notable side-effects. Circulating small RNAs have recently been identified as testicular tumor markers, but are unable to diagnose testicular cancer at an early pre-invasive stage. So far, studies have been limited to microRNAs, with other small RNAs remaining unexplored as likely biomarkers. By sequencing all small RNAs in semen samples from men with different stages of testicular cancer and healthy men, we identify signatures predictive of cancer, even at an early stage. Thus, our study provides great potential for non-invasive early diagnosis of testicular cancer. Extensive biological variance in small RNA levels across samples, together with small sample sizes, limit the power to detect single small RNA markers. Hence, larger studies are needed to confirm our findings and deduce their full diagnostic capacity. Abstract Circulating miRNAs secreted by testicular germ cell tumors (TGCT) show great potential as novel non-invasive biomarkers for diagnosis of TGCT. Seminal plasma (SP) represents a biofluid closer to the primary site. Here, we investigate whether small RNAs in SP can be used to diagnose men with TGCTs or the precursor lesions, germ cell neoplasia in situ (GCNIS). Small RNAs isolated from SP from men with TGCTs (n = 18), GCNIS-only (n = 5), and controls (n = 25) were sequenced. SP from men with TGCT/GCNIS (n = 37) and controls (n = 22) were used for validation by RT-qPCR. In general, piRNAs were found at lower levels in SP from men with TGCTs. Ten small RNAs were found at significantly (q-value < 0.05) different levels in SP from men with TGCT/GCNIS than controls. Random forests classification identified sets of small RNAs that could detect either TGCT/GCNIS or GCNIS-only with an area under the curve of 0.98 and 1 in ROC analyses, respectively. RT-qPCR validated hsa-miR-6782-5p to be present at 2.3-fold lower levels (p = 0.02) in the SP from men with TGCTs compared with controls. Small RNAs in SP show potential as novel biomarkers for diagnosing men with TGCT/GCNIS but validation in larger cohorts is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina Mørup
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital-Rigshospitalet, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark; (N.M.); (R.S.); (I.G.); (N.J.); (A.J.)
- International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Copenhagen University Hospital, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Rytis Stakaitis
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital-Rigshospitalet, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark; (N.M.); (R.S.); (I.G.); (N.J.); (A.J.)
- International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Copenhagen University Hospital, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurooncology, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, LT-50161 Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Ieva Golubickaite
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital-Rigshospitalet, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark; (N.M.); (R.S.); (I.G.); (N.J.); (A.J.)
- International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Copenhagen University Hospital, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, LT-44307 Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Meritxell Riera
- Bioinformatics Research Centre, Aarhus University, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark; (M.R.); (M.H.S.)
| | - Marlene Danner Dalgaard
- DTU Multi-Assay Core, Department of Health Technology, Technical University of Denmark, 2800 Lyngby, Denmark;
| | - Mikkel H. Schierup
- Bioinformatics Research Centre, Aarhus University, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark; (M.R.); (M.H.S.)
| | - Niels Jørgensen
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital-Rigshospitalet, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark; (N.M.); (R.S.); (I.G.); (N.J.); (A.J.)
- International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Copenhagen University Hospital, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Gedske Daugaard
- Department of Oncology, Copenhagen University Hospital, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark;
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anders Juul
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital-Rigshospitalet, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark; (N.M.); (R.S.); (I.G.); (N.J.); (A.J.)
- International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Copenhagen University Hospital, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Kristian Almstrup
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital-Rigshospitalet, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark; (N.M.); (R.S.); (I.G.); (N.J.); (A.J.)
- International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Copenhagen University Hospital, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +45-3545-6639
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8
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Lobo J, Leão R, Jerónimo C, Henrique R. Liquid Biopsies in the Clinical Management of Germ Cell Tumor Patients: State-of-the-Art and Future Directions. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22052654. [PMID: 33800799 PMCID: PMC7961393 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22052654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2021] [Revised: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Liquid biopsies constitute a minimally invasive means of managing cancer patients, entailing early diagnosis, follow-up and prediction of response to therapy. Their use in the germ cell tumor field is invaluable since diagnostic tissue biopsies (which are invasive) are often not performed, and therefore only a presumptive diagnosis can be made, confirmed upon examination of the surgical specimen. Herein, we provide an overall review of the current liquid biopsy-based biomarkers of this disease, including the classical, routinely used serum tumor markers—the promising microRNAs rapidly approaching the introduction into clinical practice—but also cell-free DNA markers (including DNA methylation) and circulating tumor cells. Finally, and importantly, we also explore novel strategies and challenges for liquid biopsy markers and methodologies, providing a critical view of the future directions for liquid biopsy tests in this field, highlighting gaps and unanswered questions.
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Affiliation(s)
- João Lobo
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, IPO Porto Research Center (GEBC CI-IPOP), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto) & Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center (P.CCC), R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal;
- Department of Pathology, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPOP), R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar, University of Porto (ICBAS-UP), Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-513 Porto, Portugal
| | - Ricardo Leão
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Rua Larga, 3000-370 Coimbra, Portugal;
| | - Carmen Jerónimo
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, IPO Porto Research Center (GEBC CI-IPOP), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto) & Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center (P.CCC), R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal;
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar, University of Porto (ICBAS-UP), Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-513 Porto, Portugal
- Correspondence: (C.J.); (R.H.); Tel.: +351-22-225084000 (C.J. & R.H.); Fax: +351-22-5084199 (C.J. & R.H.)
| | - Rui Henrique
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, IPO Porto Research Center (GEBC CI-IPOP), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto) & Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center (P.CCC), R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal;
- Department of Pathology, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPOP), R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar, University of Porto (ICBAS-UP), Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-513 Porto, Portugal
- Correspondence: (C.J.); (R.H.); Tel.: +351-22-225084000 (C.J. & R.H.); Fax: +351-22-5084199 (C.J. & R.H.)
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9
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Qasemi M, Amidi F. Extracellular microRNA profiling in human follicular fluid: new biomarkers in female reproductive potential. J Assist Reprod Genet 2020; 37:1769-1780. [PMID: 32642870 PMCID: PMC7468023 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-020-01860-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2020] [Accepted: 06/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small, about 22 nucleotides, non-coding RNAs which regulate a wide range of gene expression during post-transcriptional stage. They are released into intra- and extracellular microenvironments and play vital roles in different physiological and pathological pathways. Due to easy accessibility, detection of extracellular miRNAs in body fluids, e.g. serum, plasma, cerebrospinal fluid, and follicular fluid, has been explored in recent years. Since miRNAs are stable at unsuitable conditions, scientists have been investigating to use them as biomarkers in different fields of medicines. It goes without saying that experienced biomarkers would be required in reproductive medicine as well. Biomarkers can help clinicians and embryologists to diagnose disorders and assess the embryo quality via molecular pattern which is more reliable than nowadays routine methods. Follicular fluid as a noninvasive fluid in assisted reproductive techniques (ART) has attracted researchers as a rich pool for biomarkers, and miRNAs are not exception. Although miRNA biomarkers in reproduction field are located on their initial stage and there is a long path to move forward, several meticulous studies have been performed and discovered their associations with various conditions. In this regard, we summarize the reported miRNAs in follicular fluid and their correlations with female infertility and ART success rate, while subsequent investigations are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Qasemi
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fardin Amidi
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
- Department of Infertility, Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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10
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Radtke A, Dieckmann KP, Grobelny F, Salzbrunn A, Oing C, Schulze W, Belge G. Expression of miRNA-371a-3p in seminal plasma and ejaculate is associated with sperm concentration. Andrology 2020; 7:469-474. [PMID: 31310058 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2018] [Revised: 05/06/2019] [Accepted: 05/12/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The microRNAs of the miR-371-3 cluster are novel serum markers for testicular germ cell tumors. Sporadic reports suggested the expression of this miRNA in semen. OBJECTIVES To verify the expression of miR-371a-3p in seminal plasma and unprocessed ejaculate; to compare seminal plasma miRNA levels in germ cell tumors patients with those of controls; to look for an association of miRNA levels with semen quality. MATERIALS AND METHODS The miR-371a-3p expression was analyzed with qPCR. The study population consisted of 100 participants: seminal plasma samples from 20 germ cell tumors patients and 30 controls, serum samples from 12 healthy men, ejaculate samples from 38 men undergoing fertility testing. RESULTS The seminal plasma miR-371a-3p levels of germ cell tumors patients were not different from controls. The miRNA expression was very low in serum but much higher in seminal plasma. In ejaculate samples, the miRNA expression significantly correlated with sperm concentration and the total sperm count. DISCUSSION miR-371-a-3p is present in sperm-containing fluids. Seminal plasma levels cannot be used to distinguish germ cell tumors from controls. The correlation with sperm concentration in ejaculate samples suggests the spermatozoa as possible source of miR-371a-3p production. CONCLUSION The miR-371a-3p levels in ejaculate could represent a novel biomarker for the non-invasive evaluation of male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Radtke
- Faculty of Biology and Chemistry, University of Bremen, Bremen, Germany
| | - K-P Dieckmann
- Department of Urology, Asklepios Klinik Altona, Hamburg, Germany.,Amedes Group, MVZ Fertility Center GmbH, Hamburg, Germany
| | - F Grobelny
- Faculty of Biology and Chemistry, University of Bremen, Bremen, Germany
| | - A Salzbrunn
- Institute of Andrology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - C Oing
- Department of Oncology, Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation with Division of Pneumology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - W Schulze
- Amedes Group, MVZ Fertility Center GmbH, Hamburg, Germany
| | - G Belge
- Faculty of Biology and Chemistry, University of Bremen, Bremen, Germany
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11
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Finocchi F, Pelloni M, Balercia G, Pallotti F, Radicioni AF, Lenzi A, Lombardo F, Paoli D. Seminal plasma miRNAs in Klinefelter syndrome and in obstructive and non-obstructive azoospermia. Mol Biol Rep 2020; 47:4373-4382. [DOI: 10.1007/s11033-020-05552-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2020] [Accepted: 05/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
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12
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Belge G, Hennig F, Dumlupinar C, Grobelny F, Junker K, Radtke A, Dieckmann KP. Graded expression of microRNA-371a-3p in tumor tissues, contralateral testes, and in serum of patients with testicular germ cell tumor. Oncotarget 2020; 11:1462-1473. [PMID: 32363003 PMCID: PMC7185068 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.27565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2020] [Accepted: 04/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Serum levels of microRNA-371a-3p represent a specific tumor marker of testicular germ cell tumors (GCTs) but the origin of circulating miR-371a-3p is not finally resolved. The correlation between miR-levels in tissue and serum is unclear.
Results: MiR-levels in GCT tissue are 399-fold higher than in contralateral testicular tissue and 5843-fold higher than in non-testicular tissue. MiR tissue levels correlate with corresponding serum levels (r2 = 0.181). ISH detected miR-371a-3p intracellularly in GCT cells except teratoma. A low expression was also detected in normal testicular germ cells.
Conclusions: Circulating miR-371a-3p is specifically derived from GCT tissue. The miR is present in GCT cells except teratoma. A low expression is also found in normal testicular tissue but not in non-testicular tissue. MiR-371a-3p levels in tissue and serum correlate significantly. This study underscores the usefulness of serum miR-371a-3p as tumor marker of GCT.
Patients and methods: Expression levels of miR-371a-3p were concurrently measured in tissues of GCT, contralateral testes (n = 38), and in serum (n = 36) with real time PCR. For control, 5 healthy testicles and 4 non-testicular tissue samples were examined. MiR-levels were compared using descriptive statistical methods. We also performed in situ hybridization (ISH) of GCT tissue with a probe specific for miR-371a-3p.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gazanfer Belge
- Faculty of Biology and Chemistry, University of Bremen, Bremen, Germany
| | - Finja Hennig
- Faculty of Biology and Chemistry, University of Bremen, Bremen, Germany
| | - Cansu Dumlupinar
- Faculty of Biology and Chemistry, University of Bremen, Bremen, Germany
| | | | - Klaus Junker
- Department of Pathology, Klinikum Bremen-Mitte, Bremen, Germany
| | - Arlo Radtke
- Faculty of Biology and Chemistry, University of Bremen, Bremen, Germany
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13
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Non-Coding microRNAs as Novel Potential Tumor Markers in Testicular Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12030749. [PMID: 32235691 PMCID: PMC7140096 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12030749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2020] [Revised: 03/14/2020] [Accepted: 03/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Testicular cancer is an important disease with increasing incidence and a high burden of morbidity and mortality in young men worldwide. Histological examination of the testicular tissue after orchiectomy plays an important role alongside patient history, imaging, clinical presentation and laboratory parameters. Surgical procedures and chemotherapeutic treatment provide a high chance of cure in early stages, though some patients in advanced stages belonging to a poor risk group experience cancer-related death. Though conventional serum-based tumor markers, including α-fetoprotein (AFP), the β-subunit of human chorionic gonadotropin (β-hCG), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), are useful as prognostic and diagnostic biomarkers, unfortunately, these tumor markers only have a sensitivity of about 60%, and in pure seminoma even lower with about 20%. Therefore, the development of new tumor markers is an important and intensively ongoing issue. The analysis of epigenetic modification and non-coding RNA microRNAs (miRNAs) are carrying most promising potential as tumor markers in future. miRNAs are small RNAs secreted by testicular tumor cells and circulate and be measurable in body fluids. In recent years, miRNAs of the miR-371-373 cluster in particular have been identified as potentially superior tumor markers in testicular cancer patients. Studies showed that miR-371a-3p and miR-302/367 expression significantly differ between testicular tumors and healthy testicular tissue. Several studies including high prospective multi-center trials clearly demonstrated that these miRNAs significantly exceed the sensitivity and specificity of conventional tumor markers and may help to facilitate the diagnosis, follow-up, and early detection of recurrences in testicular cancer patients. In addition, other miRNAs such as miR-223-3p, miR-449, miR-383, miR-514a-3p, miR-199a-3p, and miR-214 will be discussed in this review. However, further studies are needed to identify the value of these novel markers in additional clinical scenarios, including the monitoring in active surveillance or after adjuvant chemotherapy, but also to show the limitations of these tumor markers. The aim of this review is to give an overview on the current knowledge regarding the relevance of non-coding miRNAs as biomarkers in testicular cancer.
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14
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Application of miRNAs in the diagnosis and monitoring of testicular germ cell tumours. Nat Rev Urol 2020; 17:201-213. [PMID: 32157202 DOI: 10.1038/s41585-020-0296-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/12/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Testicular germ cell tumours (TGCTs) are the most frequent cancer type in young men and originate from the common precursor germ cell neoplasia in situ (GCNIS). For decades, clinical management of patients with TGCT has relied on classic serum tumour markers: α-fetoprotein, human chorionic gonadotropin subunit-β and lactate dehydrogenase. In the past 10 years, microRNAs have been shown to outperform classic serum tumour markers in the diagnosis of primary tumours and in follow-up monitoring and prediction of relapse. miR-371a-3p is the most consistent marker and exhibits >90% diagnostic sensitivity and specificity in TGCT. However, miR-371a-3p cannot be used to diagnose GCNIS or mature teratoma. Future efforts must technically standardize the microRNA-based methods internationally and introduce miR-371a-3p as a molecular liquid biopsy-based marker for TGCTs in the clinic.
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15
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Qin G, Mallik S, Mitra R, Li A, Jia P, Eischen CM, Zhao Z. MicroRNA and transcription factor co-regulatory networks and subtype classification of seminoma and non-seminoma in testicular germ cell tumors. Sci Rep 2020; 10:852. [PMID: 31965022 PMCID: PMC6972857 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-57834-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2019] [Accepted: 12/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent studies have revealed that feed-forward loops (FFLs) as regulatory motifs have synergistic roles in cellular systems and their disruption may cause diseases including cancer. FFLs may include two regulators such as transcription factors (TFs) and microRNAs (miRNAs). In this study, we extensively investigated TF and miRNA regulation pairs, their FFLs, and TF-miRNA mediated regulatory networks in two major types of testicular germ cell tumors (TGCT): seminoma (SE) and non-seminoma (NSE). Specifically, we identified differentially expressed mRNA genes and miRNAs in 103 tumors using the transcriptomic data from The Cancer Genome Atlas. Next, we determined significantly correlated TF-gene/miRNA and miRNA-gene/TF pairs with regulation direction. Subsequently, we determined 288 and 664 dysregulated TF-miRNA-gene FFLs in SE and NSE, respectively. By constructing dysregulated FFL networks, we found that many hub nodes (12 out of 30 for SE and 8 out of 32 for NSE) in the top ranked FFLs could predict subtype-classification (Random Forest classifier, average accuracy ≥90%). These hub molecules were validated by an independent dataset. Our network analysis pinpointed several SE-specific dysregulated miRNAs (miR-200c-3p, miR-25-3p, and miR-302a-3p) and genes (EPHA2, JUN, KLF4, PLXDC2, RND3, SPI1, and TIMP3) and NSE-specific dysregulated miRNAs (miR-367-3p, miR-519d-3p, and miR-96-5p) and genes (NR2F1 and NR2F2). This study is the first systematic investigation of TF and miRNA regulation and their co-regulation in two major TGCT subtypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guimin Qin
- Center for Precision Health, School of Biomedical Informatics, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA.,School of Computer Science and Technology, Xidian University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Saurav Mallik
- Center for Precision Health, School of Biomedical Informatics, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Ramkrishna Mitra
- Department of Cancer Biology, Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Aimin Li
- Center for Precision Health, School of Biomedical Informatics, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA.,School of Computer Science and Engineering, Xi'an University of Technology, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Peilin Jia
- Center for Precision Health, School of Biomedical Informatics, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Christine M Eischen
- Department of Cancer Biology, Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Zhongming Zhao
- Center for Precision Health, School of Biomedical Informatics, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA. .,Human Genetics Center, School of Public Health, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA.
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16
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Boellaard WPA, Gillis AJM, van Leenders GJLH, Stoop H, van Agthoven T, Dorssers LCJ, Dinkelman‐Smit M, Boormans JL, Looijenga LHJ. Cellular origin of microRNA-371a-3p in healthy males based on systematic urogenital tract tissue evaluation. Andrology 2019; 7:463-468. [PMID: 30786164 PMCID: PMC6767197 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2018] [Revised: 01/09/2019] [Accepted: 01/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The microRNA-371a-3p (miR-371a-3p) has been reported to be an informative liquid biopsy (serum and plasma) molecular biomarker for both diagnosis and follow-up of patients with a malignant (testicular) germ cell tumor ((T)GCT). It is expressed in all histological cancer elements, with the exception of mature teratoma. However, normal testis, semen, and serum of males with a disrupted testicular integrity without a TGCT may contain miR-371a-3p levels above threshold, of which the cellular origin is unknown. OBJECTIVES Therefore, a series of relevant tissues (frozen and formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE), when available) from the complete male urogenital tract (i.e., kidney to urethra and testis to urethra) and semen was investigated for miR-371a-3p levels using targeted quantitative RT-PCR (qRT-PCR). MATERIALS AND METHODS In total, semen of males with normospermia (n = 11) and oligospermia (n = 3) was investigated, as well as 88 samples derived from 32 different patients. The samples represented one set of tissues related to the entire male urogenital tract (11 anatomical locations), three sets for 10 locations, and four sets for six locations. RESULTS All testis parenchyma (n = 17) cases showed low miR-371a-3p levels. Eight out of 14 (57%) semen samples showed detectable miR-371a-3p levels, irrespective of the amount of motile spermatozoa, but related to sperm concentration and matched Johnsen score (Spearman's rho correlation coefficient 0.849 and 0.871, p = 0.000, respectively). In all other tissues investigated, miR-371a-3p could not be detected. DISCUSSION This study demonstrates that the miR-371a-3p in healthy adult males is solely derived from the germ cell compartment. CONCLUSIONS The observation is important in the context of applying miR-371a-3p as molecular liquid biopsy biomarker for diagnosis and follow-up of patients with malignant (T)GCT. Moreover, miR-371a-3p might be an informative seminal biomarker for testicular germ cell composition.
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Affiliation(s)
- W. P. A. Boellaard
- Department of UrologyErasmus MC Cancer InstituteUniversity Medical CenterRotterdamThe Netherlands
| | - A. J. M. Gillis
- Pathology (LEPO)Erasmus MC Cancer InstituteUniversity Medical CenterRotterdamThe Netherlands
| | | | - H. Stoop
- Pathology (LEPO)Erasmus MC Cancer InstituteUniversity Medical CenterRotterdamThe Netherlands
| | - T. van Agthoven
- Pathology (LEPO)Erasmus MC Cancer InstituteUniversity Medical CenterRotterdamThe Netherlands
| | - L. C. J. Dorssers
- Pathology (LEPO)Erasmus MC Cancer InstituteUniversity Medical CenterRotterdamThe Netherlands
| | - M. Dinkelman‐Smit
- Department of UrologyErasmus MC Cancer InstituteUniversity Medical CenterRotterdamThe Netherlands
| | - J. L. Boormans
- Department of UrologyErasmus MC Cancer InstituteUniversity Medical CenterRotterdamThe Netherlands
| | - L. H. J. Looijenga
- Pathology (LEPO)Erasmus MC Cancer InstituteUniversity Medical CenterRotterdamThe Netherlands
- Princess Maxima Center for Pediatric OncologyUtrechtThe Netherlands
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17
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Dieckmann KP, Radtke A, Geczi L, Matthies C, Anheuser P, Eckardt U, Sommer J, Zengerling F, Trenti E, Pichler R, Belz H, Zastrow S, Winter A, Melchior S, Hammel J, Kranz J, Bolten M, Krege S, Haben B, Loidl W, Ruf CG, Heinzelbecker J, Heidenreich A, Cremers JF, Oing C, Hermanns T, Fankhauser CD, Gillessen S, Reichegger H, Cathomas R, Pichler M, Hentrich M, Eredics K, Lorch A, Wülfing C, Peine S, Wosniok W, Bokemeyer C, Belge G. Serum Levels of MicroRNA-371a-3p (M371 Test) as a New Biomarker of Testicular Germ Cell Tumors: Results of a Prospective Multicentric Study. J Clin Oncol 2019; 37:1412-1423. [PMID: 30875280 PMCID: PMC6544462 DOI: 10.1200/jco.18.01480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 201] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/05/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Previous studies suggested that serum levels of microRNA (miR)-371a-3p (so-called M371 test) have a much higher sensitivity and specificity than the classic markers of testicular germ cell tumors (GCTs) and are applicable toward both seminoma and nonseminoma. We sought to confirm the usefulness of this test as a novel biomarker for GCT. PATIENTS AND METHODS In a prospective, multicentric study, serum samples of 616 patients with testicular GCTs and 258 male controls were examined for serum levels of miRNA-371a-3p (miR levels) by quantitative polymerase chain reaction. The GCT population encompassed 359 patients with seminoma and 257 with nonseminoma; 371 had clinical stage I disease, 201 had systemic disease, and 46 had relapses. Paired measurements before and after orchiectomy were performed in 424 patients; 118 with systemic disease had serial measurements during treatment. miR levels were compared with those of β-human chorionic gonadotropin, α-fetoprotein, and lactate dehydrogenase. RESULTS For the primary diagnosis of GCT, the M371 test showed a sensitivity of 90.1%, a specificity of 94.0%, an area under the curve of 0.966 upon receiver operating characteristic analysis, and a positive predictive value of 97.2%. α-Fetoprotein, β-human chorionic gonadotropin, and lactate dehydrogenase had sensitivities of less than 50% in seminoma and slightly higher sensitivities in nonseminomas. miR levels were significantly associated with clinical stage, primary tumor size, and response to treatment. Relapses had elevated miR levels that subsequently dropped to normal upon remission. Teratoma did not express miR-371a-3p. CONCLUSION The M371 test outperforms the classic markers of GCT with both a sensitivity and a specificity greater than 90%. All histologic subgroups, except teratoma, express this marker. The test could be considered for clinical implementation after further validation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Klaus-Peter Dieckmann
- Asklepios Klinik Altona, Hamburg, Germany
- Albertinen-Krankenhaus Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | | | - Lajos Geczi
- National Institute of Oncology, Budapest, Hungary
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Stefan Zastrow
- Universitätsklinikum Carl Gustav Carus, Dresden, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Susanne Krege
- Klinikum Essen-Mitte Huyssenstiftung, Essen, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Anja Lorch
- Urologische Universitätsklinik der Heinrich Heine Universität, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | | | - Sven Peine
- Universitätsklinikum Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
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18
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Lobo J, Gillis AJM, Jerónimo C, Henrique R, Looijenga LHJ. Human Germ Cell Tumors are Developmental Cancers: Impact of Epigenetics on Pathobiology and Clinic. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:E258. [PMID: 30634670 PMCID: PMC6359418 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20020258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2018] [Revised: 12/25/2018] [Accepted: 01/07/2019] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Current (high throughput omics-based) data support the model that human (malignant) germ cell tumors are not initiated by somatic mutations, but, instead through a defined locked epigenetic status, representative of their cell of origin. This elegantly explains the role of both genetic susceptibility as well as environmental factors in the pathogenesis, referred to as 'genvironment'. Moreover, it could also explain various epidemiological findings, including the rising incidence of this type of cancer in Western societies. In addition, it allows for identification of clinically relevant and informative biomarkers both for diagnosis and follow-up of individual patients. The current status of these findings will be discussed, including the use of high throughput DNA methylation profiling for determination of differentially methylated regions (DMRs) as well as chromosomal copy number variation (CNV). Finally, the potential value of methylation-specific tumor DNA fragments (i.e., XIST promotor) as well as embryonic microRNAs as molecular biomarkers for cancer detection in liquid biopsies will be presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- João Lobo
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, Research Center of Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (GEBC CI-IPOP), R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal.
- Department of Pathology, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPOP), R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal.
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar, University of Porto (ICBAS-UP), Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-513 Porto, Portugal;.
| | - Ad J M Gillis
- Laboratory of Experimental Patho-Oncology (LEPO), Josephine Nefkens Building, Erasmus MC, Department of Pathology, University Medical Center, Cancer Institute, Be-432A, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS Utrecht, The Netherlands.
| | - Carmen Jerónimo
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, Research Center of Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (GEBC CI-IPOP), R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal.
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar, University of Porto (ICBAS-UP), Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-513 Porto, Portugal;.
| | - Rui Henrique
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, Research Center of Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (GEBC CI-IPOP), R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal.
- Department of Pathology, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPOP), R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal.
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar, University of Porto (ICBAS-UP), Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-513 Porto, Portugal;.
| | - Leendert H J Looijenga
- Laboratory of Experimental Patho-Oncology (LEPO), Josephine Nefkens Building, Erasmus MC, Department of Pathology, University Medical Center, Cancer Institute, Be-432A, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS Utrecht, The Netherlands.
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19
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Paoli D, Pecora G, Pallotti F, Faja F, Pelloni M, Lenzi A, Lombardo F. Cytological and molecular aspects of the ageing sperm. Hum Reprod 2018; 34:218-227. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dey357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2018] [Accepted: 11/20/2018] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Donatella Paoli
- Laboratory of Seminology – Sperm Bank ‘Loredana Gandini’ Department of Experimental Medicine, ‘Sapienza’ University of Rome, Italy
| | - Giulia Pecora
- Laboratory of Seminology – Sperm Bank ‘Loredana Gandini’ Department of Experimental Medicine, ‘Sapienza’ University of Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Pallotti
- Laboratory of Seminology – Sperm Bank ‘Loredana Gandini’ Department of Experimental Medicine, ‘Sapienza’ University of Rome, Italy
| | - Fabiana Faja
- Laboratory of Seminology – Sperm Bank ‘Loredana Gandini’ Department of Experimental Medicine, ‘Sapienza’ University of Rome, Italy
| | - Marianna Pelloni
- Laboratory of Seminology – Sperm Bank ‘Loredana Gandini’ Department of Experimental Medicine, ‘Sapienza’ University of Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Lenzi
- Laboratory of Seminology – Sperm Bank ‘Loredana Gandini’ Department of Experimental Medicine, ‘Sapienza’ University of Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Lombardo
- Laboratory of Seminology – Sperm Bank ‘Loredana Gandini’ Department of Experimental Medicine, ‘Sapienza’ University of Rome, Italy
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Radtke A, Cremers JF, Kliesch S, Riek S, Junker K, Mohamed SA, Anheuser P, Belge G, Dieckmann KP. Can germ cell neoplasia in situ be diagnosed by measuring serum levels of microRNA371a-3p? J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2017; 143:2383-2392. [PMID: 28819887 PMCID: PMC5640733 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-017-2490-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2017] [Accepted: 08/01/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Purpose Diagnosing germ cell neoplasia in situ (GCNis) can detect germ cell tumours (GCTs) at the pre-invasive stage. To date, testicular biopsy with the potential of surgical complications is the only way of safely diagnosing GCNis. Recently, microRNAs (miRs) 371-3, and miR 367 were shown to be valuable serum biomarkers of GCTs. We explored the usefulness of these candidate miRs as a marker for GCNis. Methods 27 patients with GCNis and no concomitant GCT were enrolled. All patients underwent measuring serum levels of miR-371a-3p and miR-367-3p before treatment, 11 had repeat measurement after treatment, 2 also had testicular vein blood examinations. Serum levels were measured by quantitative PCR. In addition, four orchiectomy specimens of patients with GCT were examined immunohistochemically and by in situ hybridization (ISH) with a probe specific for miR-371a-3p to look for the presence of this miR in GCNis cells. Results The median serum level of miR-371a-3p was significantly higher in patients with GCNis than in controls, miR-367 levels were not elevated. Overall, 14 patients (51.9%) had elevated serum levels of miR-371a-3p. The highest levels were found in patients with bilateral GCNis. Levels in testicular vein serum were elevated in both of the cases. After treatment, all elevated levels dropped to normal. In two orchiectomy specimens, miR-371a-3p was detected by ISH in GCNis cells. Conclusions Measuring miR-371a-3p serum levels can replace control biopsies after treatment of GCNis. In addition, the test can guide clinical decision making regarding the need of testicular biopsy in cases suspicious of GCNis.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Radtke
- Faculty of Biology and Chemistry, University of Bremen, Leobener Str. 2, 28359, Bremen, Germany.
| | - J-F Cremers
- Department of Clinical and Surgical Andrology, Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University of Muenster, Muenster, Germany
| | - S Kliesch
- Department of Clinical and Surgical Andrology, Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University of Muenster, Muenster, Germany
| | - S Riek
- Faculty of Biology and Chemistry, University of Bremen, Leobener Str. 2, 28359, Bremen, Germany
| | - K Junker
- Department of Pathology, Klinikum Bremen-Mitte, Bremen, Germany
| | - S A Mohamed
- Department of Cardiac and Thoracic Vascular Surgery, University of Luebeck, Luebeck, Germany
| | - P Anheuser
- Department of Urology, Albertinen Krankenhaus, Hamburg, Germany
| | - G Belge
- Faculty of Biology and Chemistry, University of Bremen, Leobener Str. 2, 28359, Bremen, Germany
| | - K-P Dieckmann
- Department of Urology, Albertinen Krankenhaus, Hamburg, Germany
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Wang F, Zhang SJ, Yao X, Tian DM, Zhang KQ, She DM, Guo FF, Zhai QW, Ying H, Xue Y. Circulating microRNA-1a is a biomarker of Graves' disease patients with atrial fibrillation. Endocrine 2017; 57:125-137. [PMID: 28547036 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-017-1331-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2016] [Accepted: 05/15/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE It has been increasingly suggested that specific microRNAs expression profiles in the circulation and atrial tissue are associated with the susceptibility to atrial fibrillation. Nonetheless, the role of circulating microRNAs in Graves' disease patients with atrial fibrillation has not yet been well described. The objective of the study was to identify the role of circulating microRNAs as specific biomarkers for the diagnosis of Graves' disease with atrial fibrillation. METHODS The expression profiles of eight serum microRNAs, which are found to be critical in the pathogenesis of atrial fibrillation, were determined in patients with Graves' disease with or without atrial fibrillation. MicroRNA expression analysis was performed by real-time PCR in normal control subjects (NC; n = 17), patients with Graves' disease without atrial fibrillation (GD; n = 29), patients with Graves' disease with atrial fibrillation (GD + AF; n = 14), and euthyroid patients with atrial fibrillation (AF; n = 22). RESULTS Three of the eight serum microRNAs,i.e., miR-1a, miR-26a, and miR-133, had significantly different expression profiles among the four groups. Spearman's correlation analysis showed that the relative expression level of miR-1a was positively correlated with free triiodothyronine (FT3) and free thyroxine (FT4), and negatively related to thyroid stimulating hormone. Spearman's correlations analysis also revealed that the level of miR-1a was negatively correlated with a critical echocardiographic parameter (left atrial diameter), which was dramatically increased in GD + AF group compared to GD group. Furthermore, the receiver-operating characteristic curve analysis indicated that, among the eight microRNAs, miR-1a had the largest area under the receiver-operating characteristic curves not only for discriminating between individuals with and without Graves' disease, but also for predicting the presence of atrial fibrillation in patients with Graves' disease. CONCLUSIONS Our findings showed that the levels of serum miR-1a were significantly decreased in GD + AF group compared with GD group, suggesting that serum miR-1a might serve as a novel biomarker for diagnosis of atrial fibrillation in patients with Graves' disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang Wang
- Department of Endocrinology, People's Hospital of Shanghai Putuo District, Shanghai, 200060, China
| | - Sheng-Jie Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Food Safety Research, Institute for Nutritional Sciences, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China
| | - Xuan Yao
- Key Laboratory of Food Safety Research, Institute for Nutritional Sciences, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China
| | - Dong-Mei Tian
- Department of Endocrinology, People's Hospital of Shanghai Putuo District, Shanghai, 200060, China
| | - Ke-Qin Zhang
- Department of Endocrinology, Tongji Hospital of Tongji University, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200065, China
| | - Dun-Min She
- Department of Endocrinology, Tongji Hospital of Tongji University, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200065, China
| | - Fei-Fan Guo
- Key Laboratory of Nutrition and Metabolism, Institute for Nutritional Sciences, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China
| | - Qi-Wei Zhai
- Key Laboratory of Nutrition and Metabolism, Institute for Nutritional Sciences, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China
| | - Hao Ying
- Key Laboratory of Food Safety Research, Institute for Nutritional Sciences, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China
| | - Ying Xue
- Department of Endocrinology, Tongji Hospital of Tongji University, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200065, China.
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