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Kawabe Y, Numabe T, Tanemura K, Hara K. Characteristics of alpha smooth muscle actin-positive peritubular cells in prepubertal bovine testes. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2022; 609:48-53. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2022.03.149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Huang Y, Li J, Bian C, Li R, You X, Shi Q. Evolutionary Genomics Reveals Multiple Functions of Arylalkylamine N-Acetyltransferase in Fish. Front Genet 2022; 13:820442. [PMID: 35664299 PMCID: PMC9160868 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.820442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
As an important hormone, melatonin participates in endocrine regulation of diverse functions in vertebrates. Its biosynthesis is catalyzed by four cascaded enzymes, among them, arylalkylamine N-acetyltransferase (AANAT) is the most critical one. Although only single aanat gene has been identified in most groups of vertebrates, researchers including us have determined that fish have the most diverse of aanat genes (aanat1a, aanat1b, and aanat2), playing various potential roles such as seasonal migration, amphibious aerial vision, and cave or deep-sea adaptation. With the rapid development of genome and transcriptome sequencing, more and more putative sequences of fish aanat genes are going to be available. Related phylogeny and functional investigations will enrich our understanding of AANAT functions in various fish species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Huang
- Shenzhen Key Lab of Marine Genomics, Guangdong Provincial Key Lab of Molecular Breeding in Marine Economic Animals, BGI Academy of Marine Sciences, BGI Marine, BGI, Shenzhen, China
- *Correspondence: Yu Huang, ; Qiong Shi,
| | - Jia Li
- Department of Plant Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Ghent University, VIB-Ugent Center for Plant Systems Biology, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Chao Bian
- Shenzhen Key Lab of Marine Genomics, Guangdong Provincial Key Lab of Molecular Breeding in Marine Economic Animals, BGI Academy of Marine Sciences, BGI Marine, BGI, Shenzhen, China
- BGI Education Center, College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
| | - Ruihan Li
- Shenzhen Key Lab of Marine Genomics, Guangdong Provincial Key Lab of Molecular Breeding in Marine Economic Animals, BGI Academy of Marine Sciences, BGI Marine, BGI, Shenzhen, China
- BGI Education Center, College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xinxin You
- Shenzhen Key Lab of Marine Genomics, Guangdong Provincial Key Lab of Molecular Breeding in Marine Economic Animals, BGI Academy of Marine Sciences, BGI Marine, BGI, Shenzhen, China
| | - Qiong Shi
- Shenzhen Key Lab of Marine Genomics, Guangdong Provincial Key Lab of Molecular Breeding in Marine Economic Animals, BGI Academy of Marine Sciences, BGI Marine, BGI, Shenzhen, China
- BGI Education Center, College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
- *Correspondence: Yu Huang, ; Qiong Shi,
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Mintziori G, Duntas LH, Veneti S, Goulis DG. Metabolic, Oxidative and Psychological Stress as Mediators of the Effect of COVID-19 on Male Infertility: A Literature Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19095277. [PMID: 35564672 PMCID: PMC9099932 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19095277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Revised: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Over 300 million patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) have been reported worldwide since the outbreak of the pandemic in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China. COVID-19 is induced by the acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). The effect of SARS-CoV-2 infection on the male reproductive system is unclear. The aim of this review is to assess the effect of SARS-CoV-2 infection on male fertility and the impact of possible mediators, such as metabolic, oxidative and psychological stress. SARS-CoV-2 infection aggravates metabolic stress and directly or indirectly affects male fertility by reducing seminal health. In addition, SARS-CoV-2 infection leads to excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and increased psychological distress. These data suggest that SARS-CoV-2 infection reduces male fertility, possibly by means of metabolic, oxidative and psychological stress. Therefore, among other consequences, the possibility of COVID-19-induced male infertility should not be neglected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gesthimani Mintziori
- Unit of Reproductive Endocrinology, 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki Medical School, Papageorgiou Gneral Hospital, 56429 Thessaloniki, Greece; (S.V.); (D.G.G.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Leonidas H. Duntas
- Unit of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Thyroid Section, Evgenideion Hospital, University of Athens, 20 Papadiamantopoulou Str., 11528 Athens, Greece;
| | - Stavroula Veneti
- Unit of Reproductive Endocrinology, 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki Medical School, Papageorgiou Gneral Hospital, 56429 Thessaloniki, Greece; (S.V.); (D.G.G.)
| | - Dimitrios G. Goulis
- Unit of Reproductive Endocrinology, 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki Medical School, Papageorgiou Gneral Hospital, 56429 Thessaloniki, Greece; (S.V.); (D.G.G.)
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Hachem NE, Humpfle L, Simon P, Kaese M, Weinhold B, Günther J, Galuska SP, Middendorff R. The Loss of Polysialic Acid Impairs the Contractile Phenotype of Peritubular Smooth Muscle Cells in the Postnatal Testis. Cells 2021; 10:1347. [PMID: 34072405 PMCID: PMC8230264 DOI: 10.3390/cells10061347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2020] [Revised: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In the testis, the germinal epithelium of seminiferous tubules is surrounded by contractile peritubular cells, which are involved in sperm transport. Interestingly, in postnatal testis, polysialic acid (polySia), which is also an essential player for the development of the brain, was observed around the tubules. Western blotting revealed a massive decrease of polySia from postnatal day 1 towards puberty, together with a fundamental reduction of the net-like intertubular polySia. Using polysialyltransferase knockout mice, we investigated the consequences of the loss of polySia in the postnatal testis. Compared to postnatal wild-type animals, polySia knockouts showed slightly reduced smooth muscle actin (SMA) immunostaining of peritubular smooth muscle cells (SMCs), while calponin, marking more differentiated SMCs, dramatically decreased. In contrast, testicular SMA and calponin immunostaining remained unchanged in vascular SMCs in all genotypes. In addition, the cGMP-dependent protein kinase PKG I, a key enzyme of SMC relaxation, was nearly undetectable in the peritubular SMCs. Cell proliferation in the peritubular layer increased significantly in the knockouts, as shown by proliferating cell nuclear anti (PCNA) staining. Taken together, in postnatal testis, the absence of polySia resulted in an impaired differentiation of peritubular, but not vascular, SMCs to a more synthetic phenotype. Thus, polySia might influence the maintenance of a differentiated phenotype of non-vascular SMCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadim E. Hachem
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Medical Faculty, Justus-Liebig-University, Aulweg 123, 35385 Giessen, Germany; (N.E.H.); (L.H.)
| | - Luisa Humpfle
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Medical Faculty, Justus-Liebig-University, Aulweg 123, 35385 Giessen, Germany; (N.E.H.); (L.H.)
| | - Peter Simon
- Institute of Biochemistry, Medical Faculty, Justus-Liebig-University, Friedrichstr. 24, 35392 Giessen, Germany; (P.S.); (M.K.)
| | - Miriam Kaese
- Institute of Biochemistry, Medical Faculty, Justus-Liebig-University, Friedrichstr. 24, 35392 Giessen, Germany; (P.S.); (M.K.)
| | - Birgit Weinhold
- Institute of Clinical Biochemistry, OE 4340, Hannover Medical School, Carl-Neuberg-Str. 1, D-30625 Hannover, Germany;
| | - Juliane Günther
- Institute of Reproductive Biology, Leibniz Institute for Farm Animal Biology (FBN), Wilhelm-Stahl-Allee 2, 18196 Dummerstorf, Germany;
| | - Sebastian P. Galuska
- Institute of Biochemistry, Medical Faculty, Justus-Liebig-University, Friedrichstr. 24, 35392 Giessen, Germany; (P.S.); (M.K.)
- Institute of Reproductive Biology, Leibniz Institute for Farm Animal Biology (FBN), Wilhelm-Stahl-Allee 2, 18196 Dummerstorf, Germany;
| | - Ralf Middendorff
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Medical Faculty, Justus-Liebig-University, Aulweg 123, 35385 Giessen, Germany; (N.E.H.); (L.H.)
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Ibtisham F, Honaramooz A. Spermatogonial Stem Cells for In Vitro Spermatogenesis and In Vivo Restoration of Fertility. Cells 2020; 9:E745. [PMID: 32197440 PMCID: PMC7140722 DOI: 10.3390/cells9030745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2020] [Revised: 03/15/2020] [Accepted: 03/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) are the only adult stem cells capable of passing genes onto the next generation. SSCs also have the potential to provide important knowledge about stem cells in general and to offer critical in vitro and in vivo applications in assisted reproductive technologies. After century-long research, proof-of-principle culture systems have been introduced to support the in vitro differentiation of SSCs from rodent models into haploid male germ cells. Despite recent progress in organotypic testicular tissue culture and two-dimensional or three-dimensional cell culture systems, to achieve complete in vitro spermatogenesis (IVS) using non-rodent species remains challenging. Successful in vitro production of human haploid male germ cells will foster hopes of preserving the fertility potential of prepubertal cancer patients who frequently face infertility due to the gonadotoxic side-effects of cancer treatment. Moreover, the development of optimal systems for IVS would allow designing experiments that are otherwise difficult or impossible to be performed directly in vivo, such as genetic manipulation of germ cells or correction of genetic disorders. This review outlines the recent progress in the use of SSCs for IVS and potential in vivo applications for the restoration of fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ali Honaramooz
- Department of Veterinary Biomedical Sciences, Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5B4, Canada;
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Çelik Ö, Hatırnaz Ş, Erşahin A, Başbuğ A, Yetkin Yıldırım G, Özener V, Gürpınar N, Çelik S, Çelik N, Küçük T, Ünlü C. Testis spectroscopy may predict sperm retrieval rate in men with non-obstructive azoospermia undergoing micro-TESE: A pilot study. J Turk Ger Gynecol Assoc 2019; 21:70-78. [PMID: 31640305 PMCID: PMC7294832 DOI: 10.4274/jtgga.galenos.2019.2018.0154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To investigate whether prior testis magnetic resonance spectroscopy predicts the success or failure of micro-dissection testicular sperm extraction (micro-TESE) in patients with non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA). Material and Methods Nine men with NOA who were scheduled for micro-TESE for the first time, 9 NOA men with a history of previous micro-TESE and 5 fertile men were enrolled. All NOA patients and fertile controls underwent testis spectroscopy. A multi-voxel spectroscopy sequence was used. Testicular signals of choline (Cho), creatine (Cr), myo-inositol (MI), lactate, and lipids were analyzed quantitatively and compared with the results of the micro-TESEs. Results The most prominent peaks were Cho and Cr in the fertile controls and NOA subjects with positive sperm retrieval in the micro-TESE. A high Cho peak was detected in 87% of the NOA men with positive sperm retrieval. NOA men without sperm at the previous micro-TESE showed a marked decrease in Cho and Cr signals. For positive sperm retrieval in micro-TESE, the cut-off value of Cho was 1.46 ppm, the cut-off value of Cr was 1.43 ppm, and the cut-off value of MI was 0.79 ppm. Conclusion Testis spectroscopy can be used as a non-invasive screening method to predict the success or failure of micro-TESE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Önder Çelik
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Private Office, Uşak, Turkey
| | - Şafak Hatırnaz
- In Vitro Fertilization Unit, Medicana International Hospital, Samsun, Turkey
| | - Aynur Erşahin
- In Vitro Fertilization Unit, Medicalpark Göztepe Hospital, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Alper Başbuğ
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Düzce University Faculty of Medicine, Düzce, Turkey
| | - Gonca Yetkin Yıldırım
- Clinic of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Health Sciences, Kanuni Sultan Süleyman Training and Research Hospital, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Vahit Özener
- Department of Radiology, Barış Radiology Center, İzmir, Turkey
| | | | | | - Nilüfer Çelik
- Clinic of Biochemistry, University of Health Sciences, Behçet Uz Children’s Training and Research Hospital, İzmir, Turkey
| | - Tansu Küçük
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Acıbadem University Faculty of Medicine, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Cihat Ünlü
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Acıbadem University Faculty of Medicine, İstanbul, Turkey
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The cell-cell junctions of mammalian testes: II. The lamellar smooth muscle monolayer cells of the peritubular wall are laterally connected by vertical adherens junctions-a novel architectonic cell-cell junction system. Cell Tissue Res 2018; 375:451-482. [PMID: 30591979 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-018-2968-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2018] [Accepted: 11/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The testes of sexually mature males of six mammalian species (men, bulls, boars, rats, mice, guinea pigs) have been studied using biochemical as well as light and electron microscopical techniques, in particular immunolocalizations. In these tissues, the peritubular walls represent lamellar encasement structures wrapped around the seminiferous tubules as a bandage system of extracellular matrix layers, alternating with monolayers of very flat polyhedral "lamellar smooth muscle cells" (LSMCs), the number of which varies in different species from 1 to 5 or 6. These LSMCs are complete SMCs containing smooth muscle α-actin (SMA), myosin light and heavy chains, α-actinin, tropomyosin, smoothelin, intermediate-sized filament proteins desmin and/or vimentin, filamin, talin, dystrophin, caldesmon, calponin, and protein SM22α, often also cytokeratins 8 and 18. In the monolayers, the LSMCs are connected by adherens junctions (AJs) based on cadherin-11, in some species also with P-cadherin and/or E-cadherin, which are anchored in cytoplasmic plaques containing β-catenin and other armadillo proteins, in some species also striatin family proteins, protein myozap and/or LUMA. The LSMC cytoplasm is rich in myofilament bundles, which in many regions are packed in paracrystalline arrays, as well as in "dense bodies," "focal adhesions," and caveolae. In addition to some AJ-like end-on-end contacts, the LSMCs are laterally connected by numerous vertical AJ-like junctions located in variously sized and variously shaped, overlapping (alter super alterum) lamelliform cell protrusions. Consequently, the LSMCs of the peritubular wall monolayers are SMCs sensu stricto which are laterally connected by a novel architectonic system of arrays of vertical AJs located in overlapping cell protrusions.
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Gaur M, Ramathal C, Reijo Pera RA, Turek PJ, John CM. Isolation of human testicular cells and co-culture with embryonic stem cells. Reproduction 2018; 155:153-166. [PMID: 29326135 DOI: 10.1530/rep-17-0346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2017] [Revised: 10/17/2017] [Accepted: 11/13/2017] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Our overall goal is to create a three-dimensional human cell-based testicular model for toxicological and spermatogenesis studies. Methods to purify the major somatic testicular cells, namely Leydig cells (LCs), peritubular myoid cells (PCs) and Sertoli cells (SCs), from rats, mice and guinea pigs have been reported. In humans, the isolation of populations enriched for primary LCs, PCs or SCs also have described. One objective of this study was to determine if populations of cells enriched for all three of these cell types can be isolated from testes of single human donors, and we were successful in doing so from testes of three donors. Testes tissues were enzymatically digested, gravity sedimented and Percoll filtered to isolate populations enriched for LCs, PCs and SCs. LCs and PCs were identified by colorimetric detection of the expression of prototypical enzymes. Division of PCs and SCs in culture has been reported. We observed that primary human LCs could divide in culture by incorporation of 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine. SCs were identified and their functionality was demonstrated by the formation of tight junctions as shown by the expression of tight junction proteins, increased transepithelial electrical resistance, polarized secretion of biomolecules and inhibition of lucifer yellow penetration. Furthermore, we found that human SC feeder layers could facilitate germ cell progression of human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) by microarray analysis of gene expression.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Cyril Ramathal
- Institute for Stem Cell BiologyStanford University, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Renee A Reijo Pera
- Institute for Stem Cell BiologyStanford University, Stanford, California, USA.,Stanford University School of MedicineStanford, California, USA
| | - Paul J Turek
- MandalMedInc., San Francisco, California, USA.,The Turek ClinicSan Francisco, California, USA
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Eubler K, Herrmann C, Tiefenbacher A, Köhn FM, Schwarzer JU, Kunz L, Mayerhofer A. Ca 2+ Signaling and IL-8 Secretion in Human Testicular Peritubular Cells Involve the Cation Channel TRPV2. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19092829. [PMID: 30235802 PMCID: PMC6165404 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19092829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2018] [Revised: 09/12/2018] [Accepted: 09/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Peritubular cells are part of the wall of seminiferous tubules in the human testis and their contractile abilities are important for sperm transport. In addition, they have immunological roles. A proteomic analysis of isolated human testicular peritubular cells (HTPCs) revealed expression of the transient receptor potential channel subfamily V member 2 (TRPV2). This cation channel is linked to mechano-sensation and to immunological processes and inflammation in other organs. We verified expression of TRPV2 in peritubular cells in human sections by immunohistochemistry. It was also found in other testicular cells, including Sertoli cells and interstitial cells. In cultured HTPCs, application of cannabidiol (CBD), a known TRPV2 agonist, acutely induced a transient increase in intracellular Ca2+ levels. These Ca2+ transients could be blocked both by ruthenium red, an unspecific Ca2+ channel blocker, and tranilast (TRA), an antagonist of TRPV2, and were also abolished when extracellular Ca2+ was removed. Taken together this indicates functional TRPV2 channels in peritubular cells. When applied for 24 to 48 h, CBD induced expression of proinflammatory factors. In particular, mRNA and secreted protein levels of the proinflammatory chemokine interleukin-8 (IL-8/CXCL8) were elevated. Via its known roles as a major mediator of the inflammatory response and as an angiogenic factor, this chemokine may play a role in testicular physiology and pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katja Eubler
- Biomedical Center Munich (BMC), Cell Biology, Anatomy III, Ludwig-Maximilian-University (LMU), D-82152 Planegg-Martinsried, Germany.
| | - Carola Herrmann
- Biomedical Center Munich (BMC), Cell Biology, Anatomy III, Ludwig-Maximilian-University (LMU), D-82152 Planegg-Martinsried, Germany.
| | - Astrid Tiefenbacher
- Biomedical Center Munich (BMC), Cell Biology, Anatomy III, Ludwig-Maximilian-University (LMU), D-82152 Planegg-Martinsried, Germany.
| | | | | | - Lars Kunz
- Division of Neurobiology, Department of Biology II, Ludwig-Maximilian-University (LMU), D-82152 Planegg-Martinsried, Germany.
| | - Artur Mayerhofer
- Biomedical Center Munich (BMC), Cell Biology, Anatomy III, Ludwig-Maximilian-University (LMU), D-82152 Planegg-Martinsried, Germany.
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ATP-mediated Events in Peritubular Cells Contribute to Sterile Testicular Inflammation. Sci Rep 2018; 8:1431. [PMID: 29362497 PMCID: PMC5780482 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-19624-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2017] [Accepted: 01/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Peritubular myoid cells, which form the walls of seminiferous tubules in the testis, are functionally unexplored. While they transport sperm and contribute to the spermatogonial stem cell niche, specifically their emerging role in the immune surveillance of the testis and in male infertility remains to be studied. Recently, cytokine production and activation of Toll-like receptors (TLRs) were uncovered in cultured peritubular cells. We now show that human peritubular cells express purinergic receptors P2RX4 and P2RX7, which are functionally linked to TLRs, with P2RX4 being the prevalent ATP-gated ion channel. Subsequent ATP treatment of cultured peritubular cells resulted in up-regulated (pro-)inflammatory cytokine expression and secretion, while characteristic peritubular proteins, that is smooth muscle cell markers and extracellular matrix molecules, decreased. These findings indicate that extracellular ATP may act as danger molecule on peritubular cells, able to promote inflammatory responses in the testicular environment.
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Baert Y, Braye A, Struijk RB, van Pelt AMM, Goossens E. Cryopreservation of testicular tissue before long-term testicular cell culture does not alter in vitro cell dynamics. Fertil Steril 2015; 104:1244-52.e1-4. [PMID: 26260199 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2015.07.1134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2015] [Revised: 07/15/2015] [Accepted: 07/16/2015] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess whether testicular cell dynamics are altered during long-term culture after testicular tissue cryopreservation. DESIGN Experimental basic science study. SETTING Reproductive biology laboratory. PATIENT(S) Testicular tissue with normal spermatogenesis was obtained from six donors. INTERVENTION(S) None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Detection and comparison of testicular cells from fresh and frozen tissues during long-term culture. RESULT(S) Human testicular cells derived from fresh (n = 3) and cryopreserved (n = 3) tissues were cultured for 2 months and analyzed with quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction and immunofluorescence. Spermatogonia including spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) were reliably detected by combining VASA, a germ cell marker, with UCHL1, a marker expressed by spermatogonia. The established markers STAR, ACTA2, and SOX9 were used to analyze the presence of Leydig cells, peritubular myoid cells, and Sertoli cells, respectively. No obvious differences were found between the cultures initiated from fresh or cryopreserved tissues. Single or small groups of SSCs (VASA(+)/UCHL1(+)) were detected in considerable amounts up to 1 month of culture, but infrequently after 2 months. SSCs were found attached to the feeder monolayer, which expressed markers for Sertoli cells, Leydig cells, and peritubular myoid cells. In addition, VASA(-)/UCHL1(+) cells, most likely originating from the interstitium, also contributed to this monolayer. Apart from Sertoli cells, all somatic cell types could be detected throughout the culture period. CONCLUSION(S) Testicular tissue can be cryopreserved before long-term culture without modifying its outcome, which encourages implementation of testicular tissue banking for fertility preservation. However, because of the limited numbers of SSCs available after 2 months, further exploration and optimization of the culture system is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoni Baert
- Biology of the Testis, Research Laboratory for Reproduction, Genetics and Regenerative Medicine, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Aude Braye
- Biology of the Testis, Research Laboratory for Reproduction, Genetics and Regenerative Medicine, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Robin B Struijk
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Ans M M van Pelt
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Ellen Goossens
- Biology of the Testis, Research Laboratory for Reproduction, Genetics and Regenerative Medicine, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
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12
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Hunter D, Anand-Ivell R, Danner S, Ivell R. Models of in vitro spermatogenesis. SPERMATOGENESIS 2014; 2:32-43. [PMID: 22553488 PMCID: PMC3341244 DOI: 10.4161/spmg.19383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Understanding the mechanisms that lead to the differentiation of male germ cells from their spermatogonial stem cells through meiosis to give rise to mature haploid spermatozoa has been a major quest for many decades. Unlike most other cell types this differentiation process is more or less completely dependent upon the cells being located within the strongly structured niche provided by mature Sertoli cells within an intact seminiferous epithelium. While much new information is currently being obtained through the application and description of relevant gene mutations, there is still a considerable need for in vitro models with which to explore the mechanisms involved. Not only are systems of in vitro spermatogenesis important for understanding the basic science, they have marked pragmatic value in offering ex vivo systems for the artificial maturation of immature germ cells from male infertility patients, as well as providing opportunities for the transgenic manipulation of male germ cells. In this review, we have summarized literature relating to simplistic culturing of germ cells, co-cultures of germ cells with other cell types, especially with Sertoli cells, cultures of seminiferous tubule fragments, and briefly mention the opportunities of xenografting larger testicular pieces. The majority of methods are successful in allowing the differentiation of small steps in the progress of spermatogonia to spermatozoa; few tolerate the chromosomal reduction division through meiosis, and even fewer seem able to complete the complex morphogenesis which results in freely swimming spermatozoa. However, recent progress with complex culture environments, such as 3-d matrices, suggest that possibly success is now not too far away.
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13
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Liu Y, Zhu Y, Di L, Osterberg EC, Liu F, He L, Hu H, Huang Y, Li PS, Li Z. Raman spectroscopy as an ex vivo noninvasive approach to distinguish complete and incomplete spermatogenesis within human seminiferous tubules. Fertil Steril 2014; 102:54-60.e2. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2014.03.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2013] [Revised: 03/20/2014] [Accepted: 03/20/2014] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
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Flenkenthaler F, Windschüttl S, Fröhlich T, Schwarzer JU, Mayerhofer A, Arnold GJ. Secretome Analysis of Testicular Peritubular Cells: A Window into the Human Testicular Microenvironment and the Spermatogonial Stem Cell Niche in Man. J Proteome Res 2014; 13:1259-69. [DOI: 10.1021/pr400769z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Florian Flenkenthaler
- Laboratory
for Functional Genome Analysis LAFUGA, Gene Center, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Stefanie Windschüttl
- Anatomy
III - Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Thomas Fröhlich
- Laboratory
for Functional Genome Analysis LAFUGA, Gene Center, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | | | - Artur Mayerhofer
- Anatomy
III - Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Georg J. Arnold
- Laboratory
for Functional Genome Analysis LAFUGA, Gene Center, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
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Qian Y, Liu S, Guan Y, Pan H, Guan X, Qiu Z, Li L, Gao N, Zhao Y, Li X, Lu Y, Liu M, Li D. Lgr4-mediated Wnt/β-catenin signaling in peritubular myoid cells is essential for spermatogenesis. Development 2013; 140:1751-61. [PMID: 23533175 DOI: 10.1242/dev.093641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Peritubular myoid cells (PMCs) are myofibroblast-like cells that surround the seminiferous tubules and play essential roles in male fertility. How these cells modulate spermatogenesis and the signaling pathways that are involved are largely unknown. Here we report that Lgr4 is selectively expressed in mouse PMCs in the testes, and loss of Lgr4 leads to germ cells arresting at meiosis I and then undergoing apoptosis. In PMCs of Lgr4 mutant mice, the expression of androgen receptor, alpha-smooth muscle actin and extracellular matrix proteins was dramatically reduced. Malfunctioning PMCs further affected Sertoli cell nuclear localization and functional protein expression in Lgr4(-/-) mice. In addition, Wnt/β-catenin signaling was activated in wild-type PMCs but attenuated in those of Lgr4(-/-) mice. When Wnt/β-catenin signaling was reactivated by crossing with Apc(min/+) mice or by Gsk3β inhibitor treatment, the Lgr4 deficiency phenotype in testis was partially rescued. Together, these data demonstrate that Lgr4 signaling through Wnt/β-catenin regulates PMCs and is essential for spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Qian
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
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Abstract
In healthy men, several layers of inconspicuously flat cells and extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins build the wall of the seminiferous tubules. The cells of this wall, peritubular cells, are not well characterized. They are smooth-muscle-like and contractile and transport immotile sperm, a function important for male fertility. However, their full functional importance, especially their potential contribution to the paracrine regulation of the male gonad, is unknown. In men with impaired spermatogenesis, the architecture of the tubular wall is frequently altered. Deposits of ECM and morphological changes of peritubular cells imply that functions of peritubular cells may be fundamentally altered. To be able to study human peritubular cells and their functions, a culture method was established. It is based on small biopsies of patients with obstructive azoospermia but normal spermatogenesis (human testicular peritubular cells, HTPCs) and non-obstructive azoospermia, impaired spermatogenesis, and testicular fibrosis (HTPCFs). Results obtained from cellular studies and parallel examinations of biopsies provide insights into the repertoire of the secretion products, contractile properties, and plasticity of human peritubular cells. They produce ECM components, including the proteoglycan decorin, which may influence paracrine signaling between testicular cells. They may contribute to the spermatogonial stem cell niche via secreted factors. They are regulated by mast cell and macrophage products, and in response produce factors that can fuel inflammatory changes. They possess a high degree of plasticity, which results in hypertrophy and loss of contractile abilities. The data collectively indicate important roles of inconspicuous testicular peritubular cells in human male fertility and infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Artur Mayerhofer
- Anatomy III-Cell Biology, Ludwig Maximilian University Munich, Biedersteiner Strasse 29, D-80802 Munich, Germany.
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17
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Mishra J, Gautam M, Dadhich R, Kowtharapu BS, Majumdar SS. Peritubular cells may modulate Leydig cell–mediated testosterone production through a nonclassic pathway. Fertil Steril 2012; 98:1308-17.e1. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2012.07.1124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2012] [Revised: 07/18/2012] [Accepted: 07/19/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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18
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Stumpf G, Fietz D, Ezer J, Litzke LF, Bergmann M. Identification of gonadal tissue in cryptorchid stallion can be improved by molecular biological analysis - a case report. Anat Histol Embryol 2012; 41:311-5. [PMID: 22780879 DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0264.2011.01132.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2011] [Accepted: 12/13/2011] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Surgically removed testicular tissue in cryptorchid stallions is sometimes difficult to identify because of morphological and histological malformation. Therefore, a sure method to characterise the removed tissue is required. A 2-year-old Haflinger stallion was castrated after diagnosis of cryptorchidism to remove the left intra-abdomnial testis. Intra-operative exploration of the abdominal cavity revealed a firm, dysmorphic structure, which could not be identified as testis based on macroscopic anatomy. The removed tissue was Bouin-fixed and paraffin-embedded for histological examination. We additionally applied immuno-histochemistry for smooth muscle actin to identify tubular structures as well as reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) to detect the expression of steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR), indicating the presence of Leydig cells. A hCG test was conducted after surgery to screen for remaining testicular tissue. Histological examination using haematoxylin and eosin staining revealed signs of tissue calcification, amorph matrix with scattered cells and round structures. The latter could not be definitely identified as tubules. Actin staining revealed a few tubular wall structures. StAR mRNA expression indicated the presence of Leydig cells in parts of the removed tissue. The hCG test after castration showed no increase in testosterone. Histological and molecular biological examination of extirpated tissue in cryptorchid stallions can play an important role in the identification of the malformed testes like structures. The use of molecular biological techniques provides the opportunity to characterise surgically removed abdominal tissue that cannot be clearly diagnosed by routine histological examination.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Stumpf
- Clinic of Equine Surgery, Justus-Liebig-University, Frankfurter Straße, 108, 35392, Giessen, Germany
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Liu F, Wang H, Li J. An integrated bioinformatics analysis of mouse testis protein profiles with new understanding. BMB Rep 2011; 44:347-51. [PMID: 21615991 DOI: 10.5483/bmbrep.2011.44.5.347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The testis is major male gonad responsible for spermatogenesis and steroidogenesis. Much knowledge is still remained to be learned about the control of these events. In this study, we performed a comprehensive bioinformatics analysis on 1,196 mouse testis proteins screened from public protein database. Integrated function and pathway analysis were performed through Database for Annotation, Visualization and Integrated Discovery (DAVID) and ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA), and significant features were clustered. Protein membrane organization and gene density on chromosomes were analyzed and discussed. The enriched bioinformatics analysis could provide clues and basis to the development of diagnostic markers and therapeutic targets for infertility and male contraception.
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Affiliation(s)
- FuJun Liu
- Shandong Research Centre for Stem Cell Engineering, Yu-Huang-Ding Hospital, Yantai, Shandong Province, China.
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20
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Fu-Jun L, Hai-Yan W, Jian-Yuan L. A new analysis of testicular proteins through integrative bioinformatics. Mol Biol Rep 2011; 39:3965-70. [PMID: 21766181 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-011-1176-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2010] [Accepted: 07/02/2011] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The testis is the male gonad responsible for spermatogenesis and steroidogenesis. Much remains to be known about the control of these events. In this study, we performed a new bioinformatic enrichment analysis of human testicular proteins selected from a protein database. Integrated function and pathway analyses were performed by Database for Annotation, Visualization and Integrated Discovery and Ingenuity Pathway Analysis programmes, and significant features were found to be clustered. Protein membrane organization and gene density on chromosomes were analyzed and discussed. The analysis could provide a basis for the understanding of testicular physiology and function, and facilitating biological interpretation of testicular functions in a network context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liu Fu-Jun
- Shandong Research Centre for Stem Cell Engineering, Yu-Huang-Ding Hospital, Yantai, 264000, Shandong Province, People's Republic of China.
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22
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Xia Y, Zhu WJ, Hao SF, Liang WB, Li J. Stereological analysis of age-related changes of testicular peritubular cells in men. Arch Gerontol Geriatr 2011; 55:116-9. [PMID: 21636138 DOI: 10.1016/j.archger.2011.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2010] [Revised: 04/28/2011] [Accepted: 05/01/2011] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
This work aimed to analyze quantitative changes of peritubular cells in testes of aged men. Testicular tissues were obtained from 42 aged men with advanced prostate cancer and 16 young men with biopsy, quantitatively investigated with stereological techniques with quadrate mask grid, measured the parameters volume density (V(V)), numerical density on area (N(A)), and numerical density (N(V)) with grid test points. No significant differences were found in cell ratio, peritubular cell number per tubule, diameter of seminiferous tubules between young and old men (p>0.05). Aged men had higher pathologic assignment score than that of young men, which demonstrated more severe pathologic changes (p<0.05). Peritubular cell V(V) and pachytene germ cell V(V) increased significantly in old men compared to young men (p<0.05). Sertoli cell (SC) number per tubule in two-dimensional was significantly less in aged men than that of young men, p<0.01. Peritubular cell N(A), N(V) decreased significantly in aged men compared to young one, p<0.05. It is concluded that the stereological data of peritubular cells from three-dimensional level in testes of aged men suggest a significant decrease when compared with young men, indicating age-related changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Xia
- Institute of Reproductive Immunology, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, 601# Huang Pu Da Dao Xi, Guangzhou 510632, China
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Volkmann J, Muller D, Feuerstacke C, Kliesch S, Bergmann M, Muhlfeld C, Middendorff R. Disturbed spermatogenesis associated with thickened lamina propria of seminiferous tubules is not caused by dedifferentiation of myofibroblasts. Hum Reprod 2011; 26:1450-61. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/der077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
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24
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Roles of Small Ubiquitin-Related Modifiers in Male Reproductive Function. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2011; 288:227-59. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-386041-5.00006-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
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