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Mecca R, Tang S, Jones C, Coward K. The limitations of testicular organoids: are they truly as promising as we believe? Reprod Fertil Dev 2024; 36:RD23216. [PMID: 38935835 DOI: 10.1071/rd23216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Organoid systems have revolutionised various facets of biological research by offering a three-dimensional (3D), physiologically relevant in vitro model to study complex organ systems. Over recent years, testicular organoids have been publicised as promising platforms for reproductive studies, disease modelling, drug screening, and fertility preservation. However, the full potential of these systems has yet to be realised due to inherent limitations. This paper offers a comprehensive analysis of the current challenges associated with testicular organoid models. Firstly, we address the inability of current organoid systems to fully replicate the intricate spatial organisation and cellular diversity of the in vivo testis. Secondly, we scrutinise the fidelity of germ cell maturation within the organoids, highlighting incomplete spermatogenesis and epigenetic inconsistencies. Thirdly, we consider the technical challenges faced during organoid culture, including nutrient diffusion limits, lack of vasculature, and the need for specialised growth factors. Finally, we discuss the ethical considerations surrounding the use of organoids for human reproduction research. Addressing these limitations in combination with integrating complementary approaches, will be essential if we are to advance our understanding of testicular biology and develop novel strategies for addressing reproductive health issues in males.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Mecca
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Level 3, Women's Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - S Tang
- Radcliffe Department of Medicine, MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DS, UK
| | - C Jones
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Level 3, Women's Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - K Coward
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Level 3, Women's Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
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Leonel ECR, Dadashzadeh A, Moghassemi S, Vlieghe H, Wyns C, Orellana R, Amorim CA. New Solutions for Old Problems: How Reproductive Tissue Engineering Has Been Revolutionizing Reproductive Medicine. Ann Biomed Eng 2023; 51:2143-2171. [PMID: 37468688 DOI: 10.1007/s10439-023-03321-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023]
Abstract
Acquired disorders and congenital defects of the male and female reproductive systems can have profound impacts on patients, causing sexual and endocrine dysfunction and infertility, as well as psychosocial consequences that affect their self-esteem, identity, sexuality, and relationships. Reproductive tissue engineering (REPROTEN) is a promising approach to restore fertility and improve the quality of life of patients with reproductive disorders by developing, replacing, or regenerating cells, tissues, and organs from the reproductive and urinary systems. In this review, we explore the latest advancements in REPROTEN techniques and their applications for addressing degenerative conditions in male and female reproductive organs. We discuss current research and clinical outcomes and highlight the potential of 3D constructs utilizing biomaterials such as scaffolds, cells, and biologically active molecules. Our review offers a comprehensive guide for researchers and clinicians, providing insights into how to reestablish reproductive tissue structure and function using innovative surgical approaches and biomaterials. We highlight the benefits of REPROTEN for patients, including preservation of fertility and hormonal production, reconstruction of uterine and cervical structures, and restoration of sexual and urinary functions. Despite significant progress, REPROTEN still faces ethical and technical challenges that need to be addressed. Our review underscores the importance of continued research in this field to advance the development of effective and safe REPROTEN approaches for patients with reproductive disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen C R Leonel
- Department of Histology, Embryology and Cell Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia, GO, Brazil
| | - Arezoo Dadashzadeh
- Pôle de Recherche en Physiopathologie de la Reproduction, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Avenue Hippocrate 55, bte B1.55.03, 1200, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Saeid Moghassemi
- Pôle de Recherche en Physiopathologie de la Reproduction, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Avenue Hippocrate 55, bte B1.55.03, 1200, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Hanne Vlieghe
- Pôle de Recherche en Physiopathologie de la Reproduction, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Avenue Hippocrate 55, bte B1.55.03, 1200, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Christine Wyns
- Pôle de Recherche en Physiopathologie de la Reproduction, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Avenue Hippocrate 55, bte B1.55.03, 1200, Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Gynecology-Andrology, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Renan Orellana
- Departamento de Ciencias Químicas y Biológicas, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Bernardo O'Higgins, Santiago, Chile
| | - Christiani A Amorim
- Pôle de Recherche en Physiopathologie de la Reproduction, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Avenue Hippocrate 55, bte B1.55.03, 1200, Brussels, Belgium.
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Jo Y, Hwang DG, Kim M, Yong U, Jang J. Bioprinting-assisted tissue assembly to generate organ substitutes at scale. Trends Biotechnol 2023; 41:93-105. [PMID: 35907704 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2022.07.001] [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: 02/26/2022] [Revised: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Various external cues can guide cellular behavior and maturation during developmental processes. Recent studies on bioprinting-assisted tissue engineering have considered this a practical, versatile, and flexible way to provide external cues to developing engineered tissues. An ensemble of multiple external cues can improve the speed and capability of morphogenesis. In this review, we discuss how bioprinting and biomaterials provide multiple guidance to generate micro-sized building blocks with specific shapes and also highlight their applications in tissue assembly toward volumetric tissue and organ generation. Furthermore, we discuss our perspectives on the future translation of bioprinting technologies integrated with artificial intelligence (AI) and robot-assisted apparatus to promote automation, standardization, and clinical translation of bioprinted tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yeonggwon Jo
- School of Interdisciplinary Bioscience and Bioengineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), Pohang, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong Gyu Hwang
- School of Interdisciplinary Bioscience and Bioengineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), Pohang, Republic of Korea
| | - Myungji Kim
- School of Interdisciplinary Bioscience and Bioengineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), Pohang, Republic of Korea
| | - Uijung Yong
- Department of Convergence IT Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), Pohang, Republic of Korea
| | - Jinah Jang
- School of Interdisciplinary Bioscience and Bioengineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), Pohang, Republic of Korea; Department of Convergence IT Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), Pohang, Republic of Korea; Department of Mechanical Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), Pohang, Republic of Korea; Institute for Convergence Research and Education in Advanced Technology, Yonsei University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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4
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Pryzhkova MV, Boers R, Jordan PW. Modeling Human Gonad Development in Organoids. Tissue Eng Regen Med 2022; 19:1185-1206. [PMID: 36350469 PMCID: PMC9679106 DOI: 10.1007/s13770-022-00492-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2022] [Revised: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Our learning about human reproductive development is greatly hampered due to the absence of an adequate model. Animal studies cannot truthfully recapitulate human developmental processes, and studies of human fetal tissues are limited by their availability and ethical restrictions. Innovative three-dimensional (3D) organoid technology utilizing human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) offered a new approach to study tissue and organ development in vitro. However, a system for modeling human gonad development has not been established, thus, limiting our ability to study causes of infertility. METHODS In our study we utilized the 3D hPSC organoid culture in mini-spin bioreactors. Relying on intrinsic self-organizing and differentiation capabilities of stem cells, we explored whether organoids could mimic the development of human embryonic and fetal gonad. RESULTS We have developed a simple, bioreactor-based organoid system for modeling early human gonad development. Male hPSC-derived organoids follow the embryonic gonad developmental trajectory and differentiate into multipotent progenitors, which further specialize into testicular supporting and interstitial cells. We demonstrated functional activity of the generated cell types by analyzing the expression of cell type-specific markers. Furthermore, the specification of gonadal progenitors in organoid culture was accompanied by the characteristic architectural tissue organization. CONCLUSION This organoid system opens the opportunity for detailed studies of human gonad and germ cell development that can advance our understanding of sex development disorders. Implementation of human gonad organoid technology could be extended to modeling causes of infertility and regenerative medicine applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina V Pryzhkova
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe St., Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, 20814, USA.
| | - Romina Boers
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe St., Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology and Immunology, Amsterdam Universitair Medische Centra, 1117 HV, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Philip W Jordan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe St., Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, 20814, USA.
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Nengzhuang WANG, Jiaming SHEN, Minghua LIU, Long MA, Lina QIN, Xuemei GE, Hongli YAN. A brief history of testicular organoids: from theory to the wards. J Assist Reprod Genet 2022; 39:1423-1431. [PMID: 35653042 PMCID: PMC9365919 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-022-02529-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2021] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years, researchers have successfully generated many human and mammalian organoid models, including organoids representing the intestine, prostate, ovary, bladder, liver, and brain. Therefore, organoids have become an important research model in the fields of regenerative medicine, drug research, and gene therapy, acting as a bridge between in vivo and in vitro experiments. In addition, testicular organoids (TOs) represent the highest level of in vitro culture of spermatogenic cells in a simulated testicular environment. However, the generation of TOs is still in the early stages, and there is still much room for improvement in dealing with the many challenges and prospects to achieve the goal of TOs that simulate the testicular microenvironment in vitro or even reconstruct the process of spermatogenesis without the need to reconstruct seminiferous tubules. We review the brief history of TO generation and some major strategies for functional applications of TOs, which are the main concerns of our clinicians and laboratory researchers.
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Affiliation(s)
- WANG Nengzhuang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Naval Military Medical University, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - SHEN Jiaming
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Naval Military Medical University, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Reproductive Medical Center, School of Medicine, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu China
| | - L. I. U. Minghua
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Naval Military Medical University, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - MA Long
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Naval Military Medical University, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Beidaihe Rehabilitation and Recuperation Center of PLA, Qinhuangdao, China
| | - Q. I. N. Lina
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Naval Military Medical University, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - G. E. Xuemei
- Shanghai Outdo Biotech Co., Ltd., Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Y. A. N. Hongli
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Naval Military Medical University, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
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Byun H, Lee S, Jang GN, Lee H, Park S, Shin H. Magnetism-controlled assembly of composite stem cell spheroids for the biofabrication of contraction-modulatory 3D tissue. Biofabrication 2021; 14. [PMID: 34670209 DOI: 10.1088/1758-5090/ac318b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Biofabrication of organ-like engineered 3D tissue through the assembly of magnetized 3D multi-cellular spheroids has been recently investigated in tissue engineering. However, the cytotoxicity of magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) and contraction-induced structural deformation of the constructs have been major limitations. In this study, we developed a method to fabricate composite stem cell spheroids using MNP-coated fibers, alleviating MNP-mediated toxicity and controlling structural assembly under external magnetic stimuli. The MNP-coated synthetic fibers (MSFs) were prepared by coating various amounts of MNPs on the fibers via electrostatic interactions. The MSFs showed magnetic hysteresis and no cytotoxicity on 2D-cultured adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs). The composite spheroids containing MSFs and ADSCs were rapidly formed in which the amount of impregnated MSFs modulated the spheroid size. The fusion ofin vitrocomposite spheroids was then monitored at the contacting interface; the fused spheroids with over 10μg of MSF showed minimal contraction after 7 d, retaining around 90% of total area ratio regardless of the number of cells, indicating that the presence of fibers within the composite spheroid supported its structural maintenance. The fusion of MSF spheroids was modulated by external magnetic stimulation, and the effect of magnetic force on the movement and fusion of the spheroids was investigated using COMSOL simulation. Finally, ring and lamellar structures were successfully assembled using remote-controlled MSF spheroids, showing limited deformation and high viability up to 50 d duringin vitroculture. In addition, the MSFs demonstrated no adverse effects on ADSC osteochondral differentiation. Altogether, we envision that our magnetic assembly system would be a promising method for the tissue engineering of structurally controlled organ-like constructs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayeon Byun
- Department of Bioengineering, Hanyang University, 222 Wangsimni-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul 04763, Republic of Korea.,BK21 FOUR Education and Research Group for Biopharmaceutical Innovation Leader, Department of Bioengineering, Hanyang University, 222 Wangsimni-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul, 04763, Republic of Korea
| | - Sangmin Lee
- Department of Bioengineering, Hanyang University, 222 Wangsimni-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul 04763, Republic of Korea.,BK21 FOUR Education and Research Group for Biopharmaceutical Innovation Leader, Department of Bioengineering, Hanyang University, 222 Wangsimni-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul, 04763, Republic of Korea
| | - Gyu Nam Jang
- Department of Bioengineering, Hanyang University, 222 Wangsimni-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul 04763, Republic of Korea.,BK21 FOUR Education and Research Group for Biopharmaceutical Innovation Leader, Department of Bioengineering, Hanyang University, 222 Wangsimni-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul, 04763, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyoryong Lee
- Department of Robotics Engineering, Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology, 333 Techno Jungang Daero, Hyeonpung-eup, Dalseong-gun, Daegu 42988, Republic of Korea
| | - Sukho Park
- Department of Robotics Engineering, Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology, 333 Techno Jungang Daero, Hyeonpung-eup, Dalseong-gun, Daegu 42988, Republic of Korea
| | - Heungsoo Shin
- Department of Bioengineering, Hanyang University, 222 Wangsimni-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul 04763, Republic of Korea.,BK21 FOUR Education and Research Group for Biopharmaceutical Innovation Leader, Department of Bioengineering, Hanyang University, 222 Wangsimni-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul, 04763, Republic of Korea.,Institute of Nano Science and Technology, Hanyang University, 222 Wangsimri-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul 04763, Republic of Korea
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Maradiaga ODH, Mok PL, Sivapragasam G, Samrot AV, Ali Khan MS, Farhana A, Alzahrani B, Tong J, Karuppiah T, Joseph NMS, Subbiah SK. Lipofection of Single Guide RNA Targeting MMP8 Decreases Proliferation and Migration in Lung Adenocarcinoma Cells. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2021; 57:710. [PMID: 34356991 PMCID: PMC8306211 DOI: 10.3390/medicina57070710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2021] [Revised: 06/27/2021] [Accepted: 07/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) have been implicated as major determinants of tumour growth and metastasis, which are considered two of the main hallmarks of cancer. The interaction of MMP8 and other signalling molecules within and adjacent tumoral tissues, including immune cells, are rather elusive, particularly of adenocarcinoma cell type. In this study, we aimed to investigate the role of MMP8 in non-small cell lung cancer proliferation and invasiveness potential. Materials and Methods: We individually lipofected with two different single guide RNA (sgRNAs) that specifically targeted on MMP8, with CRISPR-Cas 9 protein into the cells. Results: Our results clearly indicated that the lipofection of these complexes could lead to reduced ability of A549 cells to survive and proliferate to form colonies. In addition, when compared to non-transfected cells, the experimental cell groups receiving sgRNAs demonstrated relatively decreased migration rate, hence, wider wound gaps in scratch assay. The quantitative real time-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) demonstrated significant reduction in the MAP-K, survivin and PI3-K gene expression. MMP8 might have protective roles over tumour growth and spread in our body. Conclusions: The delivery of sgRNAs targeting on the MMP8 gene could induce tumour cell death and arrest cell migratory activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oscar David Hernandez Maradiaga
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Malaysia; (O.D.H.M.); (J.T.); (N.M.S.J.)
| | - Pooi Ling Mok
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Jouf University, Sakaka P.O. Box 2014, Saudi Arabia; (A.F.); (B.A.)
- Department of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Malaysia;
- Genetics and Regenerative Medicine Research Group, Universiti Putra Malaysia, UPM Serdang 43400, Malaysia
| | - Gothai Sivapragasam
- Institute of Bioscience, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Malaysia;
| | - Antony V. Samrot
- School of Bioscience, Faculty of Medicine, Bioscience and Nursing, MAHSA University, Jenjarom 42610, Malaysia;
| | - Mohammed Safwan Ali Khan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, Nazarbayev University, Nur-Sultan 010000, Kazakhstan;
- Department of Pharmacology, Hamidiye International Faculty of Medicine, University of Health Sciences, Mekteb-I, Tibbiye-I Sahane (Hamidiye) Complex Selimiye Mahallesi, Tibbiye Caddesi #38, Istanbul 34668, Turkey
| | - Aisha Farhana
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Jouf University, Sakaka P.O. Box 2014, Saudi Arabia; (A.F.); (B.A.)
| | - Badr Alzahrani
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Jouf University, Sakaka P.O. Box 2014, Saudi Arabia; (A.F.); (B.A.)
| | - Jiabei Tong
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Malaysia; (O.D.H.M.); (J.T.); (N.M.S.J.)
| | - Thilakavathy Karuppiah
- Department of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Malaysia;
- Genetics and Regenerative Medicine Research Group, Universiti Putra Malaysia, UPM Serdang 43400, Malaysia
| | - Narcisse M. S. Joseph
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Malaysia; (O.D.H.M.); (J.T.); (N.M.S.J.)
| | - Suresh Kumar Subbiah
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Malaysia; (O.D.H.M.); (J.T.); (N.M.S.J.)
- Genetics and Regenerative Medicine Research Group, Universiti Putra Malaysia, UPM Serdang 43400, Malaysia
- Institute of Bioscience, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Malaysia;
- Department of Biotechnology, Bharath Institute of Higher Education and Research, 173, Agaram Main Rd, Selaiyur, Chennai 600073, India
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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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9
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Pryzhkova MV, Xu MJ, Jordan PW. Adaptation of the AID system for stem cell and transgenic mouse research. Stem Cell Res 2020; 49:102078. [PMID: 33202307 PMCID: PMC7784532 DOI: 10.1016/j.scr.2020.102078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2020] [Revised: 10/22/2020] [Accepted: 10/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The auxin-inducible degron (AID) system is becoming a widely used method for rapid and reversible degradation of target proteins. This system has been successfully used to study gene and protein functions in eukaryotic cells and common model organisms, such as nematode and fruit fly. To date, applications of the AID system in mammalian stem cell research are limited. Furthermore, standard mouse models harboring the AID system have not been established. Here we have explored the utility of the H11 safe-harbor locus for integration of the TIR1 transgene, an essential component of auxin-based protein degradation system. We have shown that the H11 locus can support constitutive and conditional TIR1 expression in mouse and human embryonic stem cells, as well as in mice. We demonstrate that the AID system can be successfully employed for rapid degradation of stable proteins in embryonic stem cells, which is crucial for investigation of protein functions in quickly changing environments, such as stem cell proliferation and differentiation. As embryonic stem cells possess unlimited proliferative capacity, differentiation potential, and can mimic organ development, we believe that these research tools will be an applicable resource to a broad scientific audience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina V Pryzhkova
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Michelle J Xu
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Philip W Jordan
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.
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