1
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Han C. Gene expression programs in mammalian spermatogenesis. Development 2024; 151:dev202033. [PMID: 38691389 DOI: 10.1242/dev.202033] [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] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
Mammalian spermatogenesis, probably the most complex of all cellular developmental processes, is an ideal model both for studying the specific mechanism of gametogenesis and for understanding the basic rules governing all developmental processes, as it entails both cell type-specific and housekeeping molecular processes. Spermatogenesis can be viewed as a mission with many tasks to accomplish, and its success is genetically programmed and ensured by the collaboration of a large number of genes. Here, I present an overview of mammalian spermatogenesis and the mechanisms underlying each step in the process, covering the cellular and molecular activities that occur at each developmental stage and emphasizing their gene regulation in light of recent studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunsheng Han
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 100101 Beijing, China
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 100101 Beijing, China
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, 100101 Beijing, China
- Savaid Medical School, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 100101 Beijing, China
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2
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Abdallah S, Jampy A, Moison D, Wieckowski M, Messiaen S, Martini E, Campalans A, Radicella JP, Rouiller-Fabre V, Livera G, Guerquin MJ. Foetal exposure to the bisphenols BADGE and BPAF impairs meiosis through DNA oxidation in mouse ovaries. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 317:120791. [PMID: 36464114 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2022.120791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2022] [Revised: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Many endocrine disruptors have been proven to impair the meiotic process which is required for the production of healthy gametes. Bisphenol A is emblematic of such disruptors, as it impairs meiotic prophase I and causes oocyte aneuploidy following in utero exposure. However, the mechanisms underlying these deleterious effects remain poorly understood. Furthermore, the increasing use of BPA alternatives raises concerns for public health. Here, we investigated the effects of foetal exposure to two BPA alternatives, bisphenol A Diglycidyl Ether (BADGE) and bisphenol AF (BPAF), on oogenesis in mice. These compounds delay meiosis initiation, increase the number of MLH1 foci per cell and induce oocyte aneuploidy. We further demonstrate that these defects are accompanied by changes in gene expression in foetal premeiotic germ cells and aberrant mRNA splicing of meiotic genes. We observed an increase in DNA oxidation after exposure to BPA alternatives. Specific induction of oxidative DNA damage during foetal germ cell differentiation causes similar defects during oogenesis, as observed in 8-oxoguanine DNA Glycosylase (OGG1)-deficient mice or after in utero exposure to potassium bromate (KBrO3), an inducer of oxidative DNA damage. The supplementation of BPA alternatives with N-acetylcysteine (NAC) counteracts the effects of bisphenols on meiosis. Together, our results propose oxidative DNA lesion as an event that negatively impacts female meiosis with major consequences on oocyte quality. This could be a common mechanism of action for numerous environmental pro-oxidant pollutants, and its discovery, could lead to reconsider the adverse effect of bisphenol mixtures that are simultaneously present in our environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonia Abdallah
- Université Paris-Saclay, CEA, Stabilité Génétique Cellules Souches et Radiations, Institut de Biologie François Jacob, 92260, Fontenay aux Roses, France; Université de Paris-Cité, CEA, Stabilité Génétique Cellules Souches et Radiations, Institut de Biologie François Jacob, 92260, Fontenay aux Roses, France; Laboratory of the Development of the Gonads, France
| | - Amandine Jampy
- Université Paris-Saclay, CEA, Stabilité Génétique Cellules Souches et Radiations, Institut de Biologie François Jacob, 92260, Fontenay aux Roses, France; Université de Paris-Cité, CEA, Stabilité Génétique Cellules Souches et Radiations, Institut de Biologie François Jacob, 92260, Fontenay aux Roses, France; Laboratory of the Development of the Gonads, France
| | - Delphine Moison
- Université Paris-Saclay, CEA, Stabilité Génétique Cellules Souches et Radiations, Institut de Biologie François Jacob, 92260, Fontenay aux Roses, France; Université de Paris-Cité, CEA, Stabilité Génétique Cellules Souches et Radiations, Institut de Biologie François Jacob, 92260, Fontenay aux Roses, France; Laboratory of the Development of the Gonads, France
| | - Margaux Wieckowski
- Université Paris-Saclay, CEA, Stabilité Génétique Cellules Souches et Radiations, Institut de Biologie François Jacob, 92260, Fontenay aux Roses, France; Université de Paris-Cité, CEA, Stabilité Génétique Cellules Souches et Radiations, Institut de Biologie François Jacob, 92260, Fontenay aux Roses, France; Laboratory of the Development of the Gonads, France
| | - Sébastien Messiaen
- Université Paris-Saclay, CEA, Stabilité Génétique Cellules Souches et Radiations, Institut de Biologie François Jacob, 92260, Fontenay aux Roses, France; Université de Paris-Cité, CEA, Stabilité Génétique Cellules Souches et Radiations, Institut de Biologie François Jacob, 92260, Fontenay aux Roses, France; Laboratory of the Development of the Gonads, France
| | - Emmanuelle Martini
- Université Paris-Saclay, CEA, Stabilité Génétique Cellules Souches et Radiations, Institut de Biologie François Jacob, 92260, Fontenay aux Roses, France; Université de Paris-Cité, CEA, Stabilité Génétique Cellules Souches et Radiations, Institut de Biologie François Jacob, 92260, Fontenay aux Roses, France; Laboratory of the Development of the Gonads, France
| | - Anna Campalans
- Université Paris-Saclay, CEA, Stabilité Génétique Cellules Souches et Radiations, Institut de Biologie François Jacob, 92260, Fontenay aux Roses, France; Université de Paris-Cité, CEA, Stabilité Génétique Cellules Souches et Radiations, Institut de Biologie François Jacob, 92260, Fontenay aux Roses, France
| | - Juan Pablo Radicella
- Université Paris-Saclay, CEA, Stabilité Génétique Cellules Souches et Radiations, Institut de Biologie François Jacob, 92260, Fontenay aux Roses, France; Université de Paris-Cité, CEA, Stabilité Génétique Cellules Souches et Radiations, Institut de Biologie François Jacob, 92260, Fontenay aux Roses, France
| | - Virginie Rouiller-Fabre
- Université Paris-Saclay, CEA, Stabilité Génétique Cellules Souches et Radiations, Institut de Biologie François Jacob, 92260, Fontenay aux Roses, France; Université de Paris-Cité, CEA, Stabilité Génétique Cellules Souches et Radiations, Institut de Biologie François Jacob, 92260, Fontenay aux Roses, France; Laboratory of the Development of the Gonads, France
| | - Gabriel Livera
- Université Paris-Saclay, CEA, Stabilité Génétique Cellules Souches et Radiations, Institut de Biologie François Jacob, 92260, Fontenay aux Roses, France; Université de Paris-Cité, CEA, Stabilité Génétique Cellules Souches et Radiations, Institut de Biologie François Jacob, 92260, Fontenay aux Roses, France; Laboratory of the Development of the Gonads, France
| | - Marie-Justine Guerquin
- Université Paris-Saclay, CEA, Stabilité Génétique Cellules Souches et Radiations, Institut de Biologie François Jacob, 92260, Fontenay aux Roses, France; Université de Paris-Cité, CEA, Stabilité Génétique Cellules Souches et Radiations, Institut de Biologie François Jacob, 92260, Fontenay aux Roses, France; Laboratory of the Development of the Gonads, France.
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3
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Svingen T, Schwartz CL, Rosenmai AK, Ramhøj L, Johansson HKL, Hass U, Draskau MK, Davidsen N, Christiansen S, Ballegaard ASR, Axelstad M. Using alternative test methods to predict endocrine disruption and reproductive adverse outcomes: do we have enough knowledge? ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2022; 304:119242. [PMID: 35378198 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2022.119242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Revised: 03/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are a matter of great concern. They are ubiquitous in the environment, are considered harmful to humans and wildlife, yet remain challenging to identify based on current international test guidelines and regulatory frameworks. For a compound to be identified as an EDC within the EU regulatory system, a plausible link between an endocrine mode-of-action and an adverse effect outcome in an intact organism must be established. This requires in-depth knowledge about molecular pathways regulating normal development and function in animals and humans in order to elucidate causes for disease. Although our knowledge about the role of the endocrine system in animal development and function is substantial, it remains challenging to predict endocrine-related disease outcomes in intact animals based on non-animal test data. A main reason for this is that our knowledge about mechanism-of-action are still lacking for essential causal components, coupled with the sizeable challenge of mimicking the complex multi-organ endocrine system by methodological reductionism. Herein, we highlight this challenge by drawing examples from male reproductive toxicity, which is an area that has been at the forefront of EDC research since its inception. We discuss the importance of increased focus on characterizing mechanism-of-action for EDC-induced adverse health effects. This is so we can design more robust and reliable testing strategies using non-animal test methods for predictive toxicology; both to improve chemical risk assessment in general, but also to allow for considerable reduction and replacement of animal experiments in chemicals testing of the 21st Century.
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Affiliation(s)
- Terje Svingen
- National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs. Lyngby, DK-2800, Denmark.
| | | | | | - Louise Ramhøj
- National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs. Lyngby, DK-2800, Denmark
| | | | - Ulla Hass
- National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs. Lyngby, DK-2800, Denmark
| | - Monica Kam Draskau
- National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs. Lyngby, DK-2800, Denmark
| | - Nichlas Davidsen
- National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs. Lyngby, DK-2800, Denmark
| | - Sofie Christiansen
- National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs. Lyngby, DK-2800, Denmark
| | | | - Marta Axelstad
- National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs. Lyngby, DK-2800, Denmark
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Kikuchi M, Tanaka M. Functional Modules in Gametogenesis. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:914570. [PMID: 35693939 PMCID: PMC9178102 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.914570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Gametogenesis, the production of eggs and sperm, is a fundamental process in sexually reproducing animals. Following gametogenesis commitment and sexual fate decision, germ cells undergo several developmental processes to halve their genomic size and acquire sex-specific characteristics of gametes, including cellular size, motility, and cell polarity. However, it remains unclear how different gametogenesis processes are initially integrated. With the advantages of the teleost fish medaka (Oryzias latipes), in which germline stem cells continuously produce eggs and sperm in mature gonads and a sexual switch gene in germ cells is identified, we found that distinct pathways initiate gametogenesis cooperatively after commitment to gametogenesis. This evokes the concept of functional modules, in which functionally interlocked genes are grouped to yield distinct gamete characteristics. The various combinations of modules may allow us to explain the evolution of diverse reproductive systems, such as parthenogenesis and hermaphroditism.
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Boizet-Bonhoure B, Déjardin S, Rossitto M, Poulat F, Philibert P. Using Experimental Models to Decipher the Effects of Acetaminophen and NSAIDs on Reproductive Development and Health. FRONTIERS IN TOXICOLOGY 2022; 4:835360. [PMID: 35295217 PMCID: PMC8915900 DOI: 10.3389/ftox.2022.835360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid), diclofenac and ibuprofen (IBU), and analgesic drugs, such as acetaminophen (APAP, or paracetamol), are widely used to treat inflammation and pain. APAP and IBU are over-the-counter drugs and are among the most commonly taken drugs in the first trimester of pregnancy, even in combination. Furthermore, these drugs and their metabolites are released in the environment, and can be frequently detected in wastewater, surface water, and importantly in drinking water. Although their environmental concentrations are much lower than the therapeutics doses, this suggests an uncontrolled low-dose exposure of the general population, including pregnant women and young children, two particularly at risk populations. Epidemiological studies show that exposure to these molecules in the first and second trimester of gestation can favor genital malformations in new-born boys. To investigate the cellular, molecular and mechanistic effects of exposure to these molecules, ex vivo studies with human or rodent gonadal explants and in vivo experiments in rodents have been performed in the past years. This review recapitulates recent data obtained in rodent models after in utero or postnatal exposure to these drugs. The first part of this review discusses the mechanisms by which NSAIDs and analgesics may impair gonadal development and maturation, puberty development, sex hormone production, maturation and function of adult organs, and ultimately fertility in the exposed animals and their offspring. Like other endocrine disruptors, NSAIDs and APAP interfere with endocrine gland function and may have inter/transgenerational adverse effects. Particularly, they may target germ cells, resulting in reduced quality of male and female gametes, and decreased fertility of exposed individuals and their descendants. Then, this review discusses the effects of exposure to a single drug (APAP, aspirin, or IBU) or to combinations of drugs during early embryogenesis, and the consequences on postnatal gonadal development and adult reproductive health. Altogether, these data may increase medical and public awareness about these reproductive health concerns, particularly in women of childbearing age, pregnant women, and parents of young children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brigitte Boizet-Bonhoure
- Institute of Human Genetics, CNRS, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
- *Correspondence: Brigitte Boizet-Bonhoure,
| | - Stéphanie Déjardin
- Institute of Human Genetics, CNRS, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | | | - Francis Poulat
- Institute of Human Genetics, CNRS, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Pascal Philibert
- Institute of Human Genetics, CNRS, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Carèmeau Hospital, Nîmes University Hospital, Nîmes, France
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6
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Floriot S, Bellutti L, Castille J, Moison P, Messiaen S, Passet B, Boulanger L, Boukadiri A, Tourpin S, Beauvallet C, Vilotte M, Riviere J, Péchoux C, Bertaud M, Vilotte JL, Livera G. CEP250 is Required for Maintaining Centrosome Cohesion in the Germline and Fertility in Male Mice. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 9:754054. [PMID: 35127699 PMCID: PMC8809461 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.754054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2021] [Accepted: 12/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Male gametogenesis involves both mitotic divisions to amplify germ cell progenitors that gradually differentiate and meiotic divisions. Centrosomal regulation is essential for both types of divisions, with centrioles remaining tightly paired during the interphase. Here, we generated and characterized the phenotype of mutant mice devoid of Cep250/C-Nap1, a gene encoding for a docking protein for fibers linking centrioles, and characterized their phenotype. The Cep250-/- mice presented with no major defects, apart from male infertility due to a reduction in the spermatogonial pool and the meiotic blockade. Spermatogonial stem cells expressing Zbtb16 were not affected, whereas the differentiating spermatogonia were vastly lost. These cells displayed abnormal γH2AX-staining, accompanied by an increase in the apoptotic rate. The few germ cells that survived at this stage, entered the meiotic prophase I and were arrested at a pachytene-like stage, likely due to synapsis defects and the unrepaired DNA double-strand breaks. In these cells, centrosomes split up precociously, with γ-tubulin foci being separated whereas these were closely associated in wild-type cells. Interestingly, this lack of cohesion was also observed in wild-type female meiocytes, likely explaining the normal fertility of Cep250-/- female mice. Taken together, this study proposes a specific requirement of centrosome cohesion in the male germline, with a crucial role of CEP250 in both differentiating spermatogonia and meiotic spermatocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandrine Floriot
- INRAe, AgroParisTech, Université Paris-Saclay, GABI, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Laura Bellutti
- Laboratory of Development of the Gonads, UMRE008 Genetic Stability Stem Cells and Radiations, IRCM/IBFJ CEA, Université de Paris, Université Paris-Saclay, Paris, France
- *Correspondence: Laura Bellutti, ; Gabriel Livera,
| | - Johan Castille
- INRAe, AgroParisTech, Université Paris-Saclay, GABI, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Pauline Moison
- Laboratory of Development of the Gonads, UMRE008 Genetic Stability Stem Cells and Radiations, IRCM/IBFJ CEA, Université de Paris, Université Paris-Saclay, Paris, France
| | - Sébastien Messiaen
- Laboratory of Development of the Gonads, UMRE008 Genetic Stability Stem Cells and Radiations, IRCM/IBFJ CEA, Université de Paris, Université Paris-Saclay, Paris, France
| | - Bruno Passet
- INRAe, AgroParisTech, Université Paris-Saclay, GABI, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Laurent Boulanger
- INRAe, AgroParisTech, Université Paris-Saclay, GABI, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Abdelhak Boukadiri
- INRAe, AgroParisTech, Université Paris-Saclay, GABI, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Sophie Tourpin
- Laboratory of Development of the Gonads, UMRE008 Genetic Stability Stem Cells and Radiations, IRCM/IBFJ CEA, Université de Paris, Université Paris-Saclay, Paris, France
| | | | - Marthe Vilotte
- INRAe, AgroParisTech, Université Paris-Saclay, GABI, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Julie Riviere
- INRAe, AgroParisTech, Université Paris-Saclay, GABI, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Christine Péchoux
- INRAe, AgroParisTech, Université Paris-Saclay, GABI, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Maud Bertaud
- INRAe, AgroParisTech, Université Paris-Saclay, GABI, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Jean-Luc Vilotte
- INRAe, AgroParisTech, Université Paris-Saclay, GABI, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Gabriel Livera
- Laboratory of Development of the Gonads, UMRE008 Genetic Stability Stem Cells and Radiations, IRCM/IBFJ CEA, Université de Paris, Université Paris-Saclay, Paris, France
- *Correspondence: Laura Bellutti, ; Gabriel Livera,
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O’Donnell L, Whiley PAF, Loveland KL. Activin A and Sertoli Cells: Key to Fetal Testis Steroidogenesis. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:898876. [PMID: 35685219 PMCID: PMC9171382 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.898876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
The long-standing knowledge that Sertoli cells determine fetal testosterone production levels is not widespread, despite being first reported over a decade ago in studies of mice. Hence any ongoing use of testosterone as a marker of Leydig cell function in fetal testes is inappropriate. By interrogating new scRNAseq data from human fetal testes, we demonstrate this situation is also likely to be true in humans. This has implications for understanding how disruptions to either or both Leydig and Sertoli cells during the in utero masculinization programming window may contribute to the increasing incidence of hypospadias, cryptorchidism, testicular germ cell tumours and adult infertility. We recently discovered that activin A levels directly govern androgen production in mouse Sertoli cells, because the enzymes that drive the conversion of the precursor androgen androstenedione to generate testosterone are produced exclusively in Sertoli cells in response to activin A. This minireview addresses the implications of this growing understanding of how in utero exposures affect fetal masculinization for future research on reproductive health, including during programming windows that may ultimately be relevant for organ development in males and females.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liza O’Donnell
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Penny A. F. Whiley
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Kate L. Loveland
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- *Correspondence: Kate L. Loveland,
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8
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Fan X, Moustakas I, Torrens-Juaneda V, Lei Q, Hamer G, Louwe LA, Pilgram GSK, Szuhai K, Matorras R, Eguizabal C, van der Westerlaken L, Mei H, Chuva de Sousa Lopes SM. Transcriptional progression during meiotic prophase I reveals sex-specific features and X chromosome dynamics in human fetal female germline. PLoS Genet 2021; 17:e1009773. [PMID: 34499650 PMCID: PMC8428764 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1009773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
During gametogenesis in mammals, meiosis ensures the production of haploid gametes. The timing and length of meiosis to produce female and male gametes differ considerably. In contrast to males, meiotic prophase I in females initiates during development. Hence, the knowledge regarding progression through meiotic prophase I is mainly focused on human male spermatogenesis and female oocyte maturation during adulthood. Therefore, it remains unclear how the different stages of meiotic prophase I between human oogenesis and spermatogenesis compare. Analysis of single-cell transcriptomics data from human fetal germ cells (FGC) allowed us to identify the molecular signatures of female meiotic prophase I stages leptotene, zygotene, pachytene and diplotene. We have compared those between male and female germ cells in similar stages of meiotic prophase I and revealed conserved and specific features between sexes. We identified not only key players involved in the process of meiosis, but also highlighted the molecular components that could be responsible for changes in cellular morphology that occur during this developmental period, when the female FGC acquire their typical (sex-specific) oocyte shape as well as sex-differences in the regulation of DNA methylation. Analysis of X-linked expression between sexes during meiotic prophase I suggested a transient X-linked enrichment during female pachytene, that contrasts with the meiotic sex chromosome inactivation in males. Our study of the events that take place during meiotic prophase I provide a better understanding not only of female meiosis during development, but also highlights biomarkers that can be used to study infertility and offers insights in germline sex dimorphism in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xueying Fan
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Ioannis Moustakas
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Sequencing Analysis Support Core, Department of Biomedical Data Sciences, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Vanessa Torrens-Juaneda
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Qijing Lei
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Reproductive Biology Laboratory, Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Location AMC, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Geert Hamer
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Reproductive Biology Laboratory, Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Location AMC, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Leoni A. Louwe
- Department of Gynaecology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Gonneke S. K. Pilgram
- Department of Gynaecology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Karoly Szuhai
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Roberto Matorras
- IVIRMA, IVI Bilbao, Bilbao, Spain; Human Reproduction Unit, Cruces University Hospital, Bilbao, Spain; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Basque Country University, Spain; Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Bilbao, Spain
| | - Cristina Eguizabal
- Cell Therapy, Stem Cells and Tissues Group, Basque Centre for Blood Transfusion and Human Tissues, Galdakao, Spain
- Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Cell Therapy, Stem Cells and Tissues Group, Barakaldo, Spain
| | | | - Hailiang Mei
- Sequencing Analysis Support Core, Department of Biomedical Data Sciences, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Susana M. Chuva de Sousa Lopes
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
- * E-mail:
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9
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Mayère C, Neirijnck Y, Sararols P, Rands CM, Stévant I, Kühne F, Chassot AA, Chaboissier MC, Dermitzakis ET, Nef S. Single-cell transcriptomics reveal temporal dynamics of critical regulators of germ cell fate during mouse sex determination. FASEB J 2021; 35:e21452. [PMID: 33749946 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202002420r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2020] [Revised: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Despite the importance of germ cell (GC) differentiation for sexual reproduction, the gene networks underlying their fate remain unclear. Here, we comprehensively characterize the gene expression dynamics during sex determination based on single-cell RNA sequencing of 14 914 XX and XY mouse GCs between embryonic days (E) 9.0 and 16.5. We found that XX and XY GCs diverge transcriptionally as early as E11.5 with upregulation of genes downstream of the bone morphogenic protein (BMP) and nodal/Activin pathways in XY and XX GCs, respectively. We also identified a sex-specific upregulation of genes associated with negative regulation of mRNA processing and an increase in intron retention consistent with a reduction in mRNA splicing in XY testicular GCs by E13.5. Using computational gene regulation network inference analysis, we identified sex-specific, sequential waves of putative key regulator genes during GC differentiation and revealed that the meiotic genes are regulated by positive and negative master modules acting in an antagonistic fashion. Finally, we found that rare adrenal GCs enter meiosis similarly to ovarian GCs but display altered expression of master genes controlling the female and male genetic programs, indicating that the somatic environment is important for GC function. Our data are available on a web platform and provide a molecular roadmap of GC sex determination at single-cell resolution, which will serve as a valuable resource for future studies of gonad development, function, and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chloé Mayère
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland.,iGE3, Institute of Genetics and Genomics of Geneva, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Yasmine Neirijnck
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland.,CNRS, Inserm, iBV, Université Côte d'Azur, Nice, France
| | - Pauline Sararols
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Chris M Rands
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Isabelle Stévant
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland.,iGE3, Institute of Genetics and Genomics of Geneva, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Françoise Kühne
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | | | - Emmanouil T Dermitzakis
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland.,iGE3, Institute of Genetics and Genomics of Geneva, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Serge Nef
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland.,iGE3, Institute of Genetics and Genomics of Geneva, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
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Hainaut M, Clarke HJ. Germ cells of the mammalian female: A limited or renewable resource? Biol Reprod 2021; 105:774-788. [PMID: 34114006 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioab115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Revised: 06/03/2021] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In many non-mammalian organisms, a population of germ-line stem cells supports continuing production of gametes during most or all the life of the individual, and germ-line stem cells are also present and functional in male mammals. Traditionally, however, they have been thought not to exist in female mammals, who instead generate all their germ cells during fetal life. Over the last several years, this dogma has been challenged by several reports, while supported by others. We describe and compare these conflicting studies with the aim of understanding how they came to opposing conclusions. We first consider studies that, by examining marker-gene expression, the fate of genetically marked cells, and consequences of depleting the oocyte population, addressed whether ovaries of post-natal females contain oogonial stem cells (OSC) that give rise to new oocytes. We next discuss whether ovaries contain cells that, even if inactive under physiological conditions, nonetheless possess OSC properties that can be revealed through cell-culture. We then examine studies of whether cells harvested after long-term culture of cells obtained from ovaries can, following transplantation into ovaries of recipient females, give rise to oocytes and offspring. Finally, we note studies where somatic cells have been re-programmed to acquire a female germ-cell fate. We conclude that the weight of evidence strongly supports the traditional interpretation that germ-line stem cells do not exist post-natally in female mammals. However, the ability to generate germ cells from somatic cells in vitro establishes a method to generate new gametes from cells of post-natal mammalian females.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathilde Hainaut
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University and Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal Canada
| | - Hugh J Clarke
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University and Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal Canada
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Vernet N, Condrea D, Mayere C, Féret B, Klopfenstein M, Magnant W, Alunni V, Teletin M, Souali-Crespo S, Nef S, Mark M, Ghyselinck NB. Meiosis occurs normally in the fetal ovary of mice lacking all retinoic acid receptors. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2020; 6:eaaz1139. [PMID: 32917583 PMCID: PMC7244263 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.aaz1139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2019] [Accepted: 03/13/2020] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Gametes are generated through a specialized cell differentiation process, meiosis, which, in ovaries of most mammals, is initiated during fetal life. All-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) is considered as the molecular signal triggering meiosis initiation. In the present study, we analyzed female fetuses ubiquitously lacking all ATRA nuclear receptors (RAR), obtained through a tamoxifen-inducible cre recombinase-mediated gene targeting approach. Unexpectedly, mutant oocytes robustly expressed meiotic genes, including the meiotic gatekeeper STRA8. In addition, ovaries from mutant fetuses grafted into adult recipient females yielded offspring bearing null alleles for all Rar genes. Thus, our results show that RAR are fully dispensable for meiotic initiation, as well as for the production of functional oocytes. Assuming that the effects of ATRA all rely on RAR, our study goes against the current model according to which meiosis is triggered by endogenous ATRA in the developing ovary. It therefore revives the search for the meiosis-inducing substance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadège Vernet
- Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire (IGBMC), Département de Génétique Fonctionnelle et Cancer, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS UMR7104), Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM U1258), Université de Strasbourg (UNISTRA), 1 rue Laurent Fries, BP-10142, F-67404 Illkirch Cedex, France
| | - Diana Condrea
- Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire (IGBMC), Département de Génétique Fonctionnelle et Cancer, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS UMR7104), Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM U1258), Université de Strasbourg (UNISTRA), 1 rue Laurent Fries, BP-10142, F-67404 Illkirch Cedex, France
| | - Chloé Mayere
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, University of Geneva Medical School, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Betty Féret
- Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire (IGBMC), Département de Génétique Fonctionnelle et Cancer, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS UMR7104), Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM U1258), Université de Strasbourg (UNISTRA), 1 rue Laurent Fries, BP-10142, F-67404 Illkirch Cedex, France
| | - Muriel Klopfenstein
- Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire (IGBMC), Département de Génétique Fonctionnelle et Cancer, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS UMR7104), Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM U1258), Université de Strasbourg (UNISTRA), 1 rue Laurent Fries, BP-10142, F-67404 Illkirch Cedex, France
| | - William Magnant
- Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire (IGBMC), Département de Génétique Fonctionnelle et Cancer, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS UMR7104), Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM U1258), Université de Strasbourg (UNISTRA), 1 rue Laurent Fries, BP-10142, F-67404 Illkirch Cedex, France
| | - Violaine Alunni
- GenomEast platform, France Génomique consortium, IGBMC, 1 rue Laurent Fries, F-67404 Illkirch Cedex, France
| | - Marius Teletin
- Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire (IGBMC), Département de Génétique Fonctionnelle et Cancer, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS UMR7104), Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM U1258), Université de Strasbourg (UNISTRA), 1 rue Laurent Fries, BP-10142, F-67404 Illkirch Cedex, France
- Service de Biologie de la Reproduction, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg (HUS), France
| | - Sirine Souali-Crespo
- Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire (IGBMC), Département de Génétique Fonctionnelle et Cancer, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS UMR7104), Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM U1258), Université de Strasbourg (UNISTRA), 1 rue Laurent Fries, BP-10142, F-67404 Illkirch Cedex, France
| | - Serge Nef
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, University of Geneva Medical School, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Manuel Mark
- Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire (IGBMC), Département de Génétique Fonctionnelle et Cancer, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS UMR7104), Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM U1258), Université de Strasbourg (UNISTRA), 1 rue Laurent Fries, BP-10142, F-67404 Illkirch Cedex, France
- Service de Biologie de la Reproduction, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg (HUS), France
| | - Norbert B Ghyselinck
- Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire (IGBMC), Département de Génétique Fonctionnelle et Cancer, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS UMR7104), Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM U1258), Université de Strasbourg (UNISTRA), 1 rue Laurent Fries, BP-10142, F-67404 Illkirch Cedex, France.
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Yousefi Taemeh S, Mahdavi Shahri N, Lari R, Bahrami AR, Dehghani H. Meiotic initiation in chicken germ cells is regulated by Cyp26b1 and mesonephros. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL ZOOLOGY PART B-MOLECULAR AND DEVELOPMENTAL EVOLUTION 2019; 332:269-278. [PMID: 31580014 DOI: 10.1002/jez.b.22904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2019] [Revised: 07/22/2019] [Accepted: 09/07/2019] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Our knowledge of mechanisms involved in the meiosis of chicken germ cells is very limited. In mammalian fetal ovaries, the onset of meiosis is dependent on retinoic acid and subsequent upregulation of the Stra8 gene. To clarify the mechanism of meiotic initiation in chicken germ cells, we investigated the role of Cyp26b1, a retinoic acid-degrading enzyme. The Cyp26b1-inhibitor, ketoconazole was used to treat the ex vivo-cultured stage 36 gonads/mesonephroi. Then, the progression of meiosis was studied by histological and immunohistochemical analysis and the level of the transcript for Stra8 was evaluated by a quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction in individual ketoconazole-treated gonads after 6 days in culture. The results revealed that meiosis was induced in both testes and right ovary upon inhibition of Cyp26b1 in the ex vivo-cultured gonads, despite downregulation of Stra8 messenger RNA in the treated gonads. Also, meiosis was observed only when mesonephros was cultured alongside the left ovary. These findings demonstrate that in chicken, Stra8 is not the only factor for the entrance into meiosis, and Cyp26b1 and mesonephros play critical regulatory roles for the sex-specific timing of meiotic initiation in birds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Yousefi Taemeh
- Division of Biotechnology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran.,Department of Biology, Faculty of Basic Sciences, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran.,Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine Research Group, Research Institute of Biotechnology, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Naser Mahdavi Shahri
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Basic Sciences, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Roya Lari
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Basic Sciences, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Ahmad Reza Bahrami
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Basic Sciences, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran.,Industrial Biotechnology Research Group, Research Institute of Biotechnology, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Hesam Dehghani
- Division of Biotechnology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran.,Department of Basic Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran.,Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine Research Group, Research Institute of Biotechnology, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
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13
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Neirijnck Y, Papaioannou MD, Nef S. The Insulin/IGF System in Mammalian Sexual Development and Reproduction. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20184440. [PMID: 31505893 PMCID: PMC6770468 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20184440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2019] [Revised: 08/30/2019] [Accepted: 09/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Persistent research over the past few decades has clearly established that the insulin-like family of growth factors, which is composed of insulin and insulin-like growth factors 1 (IGF1) and 2 (IGF2), plays essential roles in sexual development and reproduction of both males and females. Within the male and female reproductive organs, ligands of the family act in an autocrine/paracrine manner, in order to guide different aspects of gonadogenesis, sex determination, sex-specific development or reproductive performance. Although our knowledge has greatly improved over the last years, there are still several facets that remain to be deciphered. In this review, we first briefly outline the principles of sexual development and insulin/IGF signaling, and then present our current knowledge, both in rodents and humans, about the involvement of insulin/IGFs in sexual development and reproductive functions. We conclude by highlighting some interesting remarks and delineating certain unanswered questions that need to be addressed in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasmine Neirijnck
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, University of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland.
| | - Marilena D Papaioannou
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, University of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland.
| | - Serge Nef
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, University of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland.
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