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Winge SB, Skakkebaek NE, Aksglaede L, Saritaş G, Rajpert-De Meyts E, Goossens E, Juul A, Almstrup K. X‑chromosome loss rescues Sertoli cell maturation and spermatogenesis in Klinefelter syndrome. Cell Death Dis 2024; 15:396. [PMID: 38839795 PMCID: PMC11153587 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-024-06792-6] [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: 03/28/2024] [Revised: 05/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
Klinefelter syndrome (47,XXY) causes infertility with a testicular histology comprising two types of Sertoli cell-only tubules, representing mature and immature-like Sertoli cells, and occasionally focal spermatogenesis. Here, we show that the immature-like Sertoli cells highly expressed XIST and had two X-chromosomes, while the mature Sertoli cells lacked XIST expression and had only one X-chromosome. Sertoli cells supporting focal spermatogenesis also lacked XIST expression and the additional X-chromosome, while the spermatogonia expressed XIST despite having only one X-chromosome. XIST was expressed in Sertoli cells until puberty, where a gradual loss was observed. Our results suggest that a micro-mosaic loss of the additional X-chromosome is needed for Sertoli cells to mature and to allow focal spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofia B Winge
- Department of Growth and Reproduction and the International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health, Copenhagen, 2100, Denmark.
| | - Niels E Skakkebaek
- Department of Growth and Reproduction and the International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health, Copenhagen, 2100, Denmark
| | - Lise Aksglaede
- Department of Growth and Reproduction and the International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health, Copenhagen, 2100, Denmark
| | - Gülizar Saritaş
- Department of Growth and Reproduction and the International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health, Copenhagen, 2100, Denmark
| | - Ewa Rajpert-De Meyts
- Department of Growth and Reproduction and the International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health, Copenhagen, 2100, Denmark
| | - Ellen Goossens
- Research group Genetics, Reproduction and Development (GRAD), Biology of the Testis team, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, 1090, Belgium
| | - Anders Juul
- Department of Growth and Reproduction and the International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health, Copenhagen, 2100, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, 2200, Denmark
| | - Kristian Almstrup
- Department of Growth and Reproduction and the International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health, Copenhagen, 2100, Denmark.
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, 2200, Denmark.
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2
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Lillepea K, Juchnewitsch AG, Kasak L, Valkna A, Dutta A, Pomm K, Poolamets O, Nagirnaja L, Tamp E, Mahyari E, Vihljajev V, Tjagur S, Papadimitriou S, Riera-Escamilla A, Versbraegen N, Farnetani G, Castillo-Madeen H, Sütt M, Kübarsepp V, Tennisberg S, Korrovits P, Krausz C, Aston KI, Lenaerts T, Conrad DF, Punab M, Laan M. Toward clinical exomes in diagnostics and management of male infertility. Am J Hum Genet 2024; 111:877-895. [PMID: 38614076 PMCID: PMC11080280 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajhg.2024.03.013] [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: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Infertility, affecting ∼10% of men, is predominantly caused by primary spermatogenic failure (SPGF). We screened likely pathogenic and pathogenic (LP/P) variants in 638 candidate genes for male infertility in 521 individuals presenting idiopathic SPGF and 323 normozoospermic men in the ESTAND cohort. Molecular diagnosis was reached for 64 men with SPGF (12%), with findings in 39 genes (6%). The yield did not differ significantly between the subgroups with azoospermia (20/185, 11%), oligozoospermia (18/181, 10%), and primary cryptorchidism with SPGF (26/155, 17%). Notably, 19 of 64 LP/P variants (30%) identified in 28 subjects represented recurrent findings in this study and/or with other male infertility cohorts. NR5A1 was the most frequently affected gene, with seven LP/P variants in six SPGF-affected men and two normozoospermic men. The link to SPGF was validated for recently proposed candidate genes ACTRT1, ASZ1, GLUD2, GREB1L, LEO1, RBM5, ROS1, and TGIF2LY. Heterozygous truncating variants in BNC1, reported in female infertility, emerged as plausible causes of severe oligozoospermia. Data suggested that several infertile men may present congenital conditions with less pronounced or pleiotropic phenotypes affecting the development and function of the reproductive system. Genes regulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis were affected in >30% of subjects with LP/P variants. Six individuals had more than one LP/P variant, including five with two findings from the gene panel. A 4-fold increased prevalence of cancer was observed in men with genetic infertility compared to the general male population (8% vs. 2%; p = 4.4 × 10-3). Expanding genetic testing in andrology will contribute to the multidisciplinary management of SPGF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristiina Lillepea
- Chair of Human Genetics, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, 50411 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Anna-Grete Juchnewitsch
- Chair of Human Genetics, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, 50411 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Laura Kasak
- Chair of Human Genetics, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, 50411 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Anu Valkna
- Chair of Human Genetics, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, 50411 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Avirup Dutta
- Chair of Human Genetics, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, 50411 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Kristjan Pomm
- Andrology Clinic, Tartu University Hospital, 50406 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Olev Poolamets
- Andrology Clinic, Tartu University Hospital, 50406 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Liina Nagirnaja
- Division of Genetics, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Beaverton, OR 97006, USA
| | - Erik Tamp
- Center of Pathology, Diagnostic Clinic, East Tallinn Central Hospital, 10138 Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Eisa Mahyari
- Division of Genetics, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Beaverton, OR 97006, USA
| | | | - Stanislav Tjagur
- Andrology Clinic, Tartu University Hospital, 50406 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Sofia Papadimitriou
- Interuniversity Institute of Bioinformatics in Brussels, Université Libre de Bruxelles-Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1050 Brussels, Belgium; Machine Learning Group, Université Libre de Bruxelles, 1050 Brussels, Belgium; Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Science, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Antoni Riera-Escamilla
- Division of Genetics, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Beaverton, OR 97006, USA; Andrology Department, Fundació Puigvert, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas Sant Pau, 08025 Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Nassim Versbraegen
- Interuniversity Institute of Bioinformatics in Brussels, Université Libre de Bruxelles-Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1050 Brussels, Belgium; Machine Learning Group, Université Libre de Bruxelles, 1050 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Ginevra Farnetani
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Helen Castillo-Madeen
- Division of Genetics, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Beaverton, OR 97006, USA
| | - Mailis Sütt
- Andrology Clinic, Tartu University Hospital, 50406 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Viljo Kübarsepp
- Department of Surgery, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Tartu, 50406 Tartu, Estonia; Department of Pediatric Surgery, Clinic of Surgery, Tartu University Hospital, 51014 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Sven Tennisberg
- Andrology Clinic, Tartu University Hospital, 50406 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Paul Korrovits
- Andrology Clinic, Tartu University Hospital, 50406 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Csilla Krausz
- Andrology Department, Fundació Puigvert, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas Sant Pau, 08025 Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain; Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Kenneth I Aston
- Andrology and IVF Laboratory, Department of Surgery (Urology), University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
| | - Tom Lenaerts
- Interuniversity Institute of Bioinformatics in Brussels, Université Libre de Bruxelles-Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1050 Brussels, Belgium; Machine Learning Group, Université Libre de Bruxelles, 1050 Brussels, Belgium; Artificial Intelligence Laboratory, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1050 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Donald F Conrad
- Division of Genetics, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Beaverton, OR 97006, USA; Center for Embryonic Cell & Gene Therapy, Oregon Health & Science University, Beaverton, OR 97239, USA
| | - Margus Punab
- Chair of Human Genetics, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, 50411 Tartu, Estonia; Andrology Clinic, Tartu University Hospital, 50406 Tartu, Estonia; Department of Surgery, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Tartu, 50406 Tartu, Estonia.
| | - Maris Laan
- Chair of Human Genetics, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, 50411 Tartu, Estonia.
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3
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Juchnewitsch AG, Pomm K, Dutta A, Tamp E, Valkna A, Lillepea K, Mahyari E, Tjagur S, Belova G, Kübarsepp V, Castillo-Madeen H, Riera-Escamilla A, Põlluaas L, Nagirnaja L, Poolamets O, Vihljajev V, Sütt M, Versbraegen N, Papadimitriou S, McLachlan RI, Jarvi KA, Schlegel PN, Tennisberg S, Korrovits P, Vigh-Conrad K, O’Bryan MK, Aston KI, Lenaerts T, Conrad DF, Kasak L, Punab M, Laan M. Undiagnosed RASopathies in infertile men. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1312357. [PMID: 38654924 PMCID: PMC11035881 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1312357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
RASopathies are syndromes caused by congenital defects in the Ras/mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway genes, with a population prevalence of 1 in 1,000. Patients are typically identified in childhood based on diverse characteristic features, including cryptorchidism (CR) in >50% of affected men. As CR predisposes to spermatogenic failure (SPGF; total sperm count per ejaculate 0-39 million), we hypothesized that men seeking infertility management include cases with undiagnosed RASopathies. Likely pathogenic or pathogenic (LP/P) variants in 22 RASopathy-linked genes were screened in 521 idiopathic SPGF patients (including 155 CR cases) and 323 normozoospermic controls using exome sequencing. All 844 men were recruited to the ESTonian ANDrology (ESTAND) cohort and underwent identical andrological phenotyping. RASopathy-specific variant interpretation guidelines were used for pathogenicity assessment. LP/P variants were identified in PTPN11 (two), SOS1 (three), SOS2 (one), LZTR1 (one), SPRED1 (one), NF1 (one), and MAP2K1 (one). The findings affected six of 155 cases with CR and SPGF, three of 366 men with SPGF only, and one (of 323) normozoospermic subfertile man. The subgroup "CR and SPGF" had over 13-fold enrichment of findings compared to controls (3.9% vs. 0.3%; Fisher's exact test, p = 5.5 × 10-3). All ESTAND subjects with LP/P variants in the Ras/MAPK pathway genes presented congenital genitourinary anomalies, skeletal and joint conditions, and other RASopathy-linked health concerns. Rare forms of malignancies (schwannomatosis and pancreatic and testicular cancer) were reported on four occasions. The Genetics of Male Infertility Initiative (GEMINI) cohort (1,416 SPGF cases and 317 fertile men) was used to validate the outcome. LP/P variants in PTPN11 (three), LZTR1 (three), and MRAS (one) were identified in six SPGF cases (including 4/31 GEMINI cases with CR) and one normozoospermic man. Undiagnosed RASopathies were detected in total for 17 ESTAND and GEMINI subjects, 15 SPGF patients (10 with CR), and two fertile men. Affected RASopathy genes showed high expression in spermatogenic and testicular somatic cells. In conclusion, congenital defects in the Ras/MAPK pathway genes represent a new congenital etiology of syndromic male infertility. Undiagnosed RASopathies were especially enriched among patients with a history of cryptorchidism. Given the relationship between RASopathies and other conditions, infertile men found to have this molecular diagnosis should be evaluated for known RASopathy-linked health concerns, including specific rare malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna-Grete Juchnewitsch
- Chair of Human Genetics, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Kristjan Pomm
- Andrology Clinic, Tartu University Hospital, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Avirup Dutta
- Chair of Human Genetics, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Erik Tamp
- Centre of Pathology, East Tallinn Central Hospital, Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Anu Valkna
- Chair of Human Genetics, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Kristiina Lillepea
- Chair of Human Genetics, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Eisa Mahyari
- Division of Genetics, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health and Science University, Beaverton, OR, United States
| | | | - Galina Belova
- Chair of Human Genetics, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Viljo Kübarsepp
- Department of Surgery, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Clinic of Surgery, Tartu University Hospital, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Helen Castillo-Madeen
- Division of Genetics, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health and Science University, Beaverton, OR, United States
| | - Antoni Riera-Escamilla
- Division of Genetics, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health and Science University, Beaverton, OR, United States
| | - Lisanna Põlluaas
- Chair of Human Genetics, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Liina Nagirnaja
- Division of Genetics, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health and Science University, Beaverton, OR, United States
| | - Olev Poolamets
- Andrology Clinic, Tartu University Hospital, Tartu, Estonia
| | | | - Mailis Sütt
- Andrology Clinic, Tartu University Hospital, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Nassim Versbraegen
- Interuniversity Institute of Bioinformatics in Brussels, Université Libre de Bruxelles-Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
- Machine Learning Group, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Sofia Papadimitriou
- Interuniversity Institute of Bioinformatics in Brussels, Université Libre de Bruxelles-Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
- Machine Learning Group, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Science, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Robert I. McLachlan
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research and the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Keith A. Jarvi
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Mount Sinai Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Peter N. Schlegel
- Department of Urology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, United States
| | | | - Paul Korrovits
- Andrology Clinic, Tartu University Hospital, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Katinka Vigh-Conrad
- Division of Genetics, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health and Science University, Beaverton, OR, United States
| | - Moira K. O’Bryan
- School of BioSciences, Faculty of Science, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Kenneth I. Aston
- Andrology and IVF Laboratory, Department of Surgery (Urology), University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
| | - Tom Lenaerts
- Interuniversity Institute of Bioinformatics in Brussels, Université Libre de Bruxelles-Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
- Machine Learning Group, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
- Artificial Intelligence Laboratory, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Donald F. Conrad
- Division of Genetics, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health and Science University, Beaverton, OR, United States
- Center for Embryonic Cell and Gene Therapy, Oregon Health and Science University, Beaverton, OR, United States
| | - Laura Kasak
- Chair of Human Genetics, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Margus Punab
- Chair of Human Genetics, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
- Andrology Clinic, Tartu University Hospital, Tartu, Estonia
- Department of Surgery, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Maris Laan
- Chair of Human Genetics, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
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Mahyari E, Vigh-Conrad KA, Daube C, Lima AC, Guo J, Carrell DT, Hotaling JM, Aston KI, Conrad DF. The human infertility single-cell testis atlas (HISTA): an interactive molecular scRNA-Seq reference of the human testis. Andrology 2024. [PMID: 38577799 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2023] [Revised: 02/03/2024] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Single-cell RNA-seq (scRNA-Seq) has been widely adopted to study gene expression of the human testis. Several datasets of scRNA-Seq from human testis have been generated from different groups processed with different informatics pipelines. An integrated atlas of scRNA-Seq expression constructed from multiple donors, developmental ages, and fertility states would be widely useful for the testis research community. OBJECTIVE To describe the generation and use of the human infertility single-cell testis atlas (HISTA), an interactive web tool for understanding human spermatogenesis through scRNA-Seq analysis. METHODS We obtained scRNA-Seq datasets derived from 12 donors, including healthy adult controls, juveniles, and several infertility cases, and reprocessed these data using methods to remove batch effects. Using Shiny, an open-source environment for data visualization, we created numerous interactive tools for exploring the data, some of which support simple statistical hypothesis testing. We used the resulting HISTA browser and its underlying data to demonstrate HISTA's value for testis researchers. RESULTS A primary application of HISTA is to search by a single gene or a set of genes; thus, we present various analyses that quantify and visualize gene expression across the testis cells and pathology. HISTA also contains machine-learning-derived gene modules ("components") that capture the entire transcriptional landscape of the testis tissue. We show how the use of these components can simplify the highly complex data in HISTA and assist with the interpretation of genes with unknown functions. Finally, we demonstrate the diverse ways HISTA can be used for new data analysis, including hypothesis testing. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS HISTA is a research environment that can help scientists organize and understand the high-dimensional transcriptional landscape of the human testis. HISTA has already contributed to published testis research and can be updated as needed with input from the research community or downloaded and modified for individual needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eisa Mahyari
- Division of Genetics, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Katinka A Vigh-Conrad
- Division of Genetics, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Clément Daube
- Division of Genetics, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Ana C Lima
- Division of Genetics, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Jingtao Guo
- Andrology and IVF Laboratory, Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Douglas T Carrell
- Andrology and IVF Laboratory, Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - James M Hotaling
- Andrology and IVF Laboratory, Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Kenneth I Aston
- Andrology and IVF Laboratory, Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Donald F Conrad
- Division of Genetics, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
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5
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Akanuma H, Kadowaki S, Kanai K. Case report: Klinefelter syndrome may protect against the development of spinal and bulbar muscular atrophy. Front Neurol 2024; 15:1340694. [PMID: 38405402 PMCID: PMC10884290 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2024.1340694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Spinal and bulbar muscular atrophy (SBMA) is an X-linked recessive motor neuron disease caused by the expansion of cytosine-adenine-guanine (CAG) repeats in the androgen receptor (AR) gene. It is thought that the nuclear translocation of abnormal AR proteins following binding to testosterone triggers the onset of the disease. We report the case of a patient who had SBMA coincident with Klinefelter syndrome. He developed SBMA symptoms rapidly after receiving androgen replacement therapy for Klinefelter syndrome. No cases of coincident SBMA and Klinefelter syndrome have been reported, and if confirmed by further patients in future, that androgen hormones are strongly associated with the development and progression of SBMA in fact in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haruna Akanuma
- Department of Neurology, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Suguru Kadowaki
- Department of Neurology, Ohta General Hospital Foundation, Ohta Nishinouchi Hospital, Kōriyama, Japan
| | - Kazuaki Kanai
- Department of Neurology, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima, Japan
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6
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Piechka A, Sparanese S, Witherspoon L, Hach F, Flannigan R. Molecular mechanisms of cellular dysfunction in testes from men with non-obstructive azoospermia. Nat Rev Urol 2024; 21:67-90. [PMID: 38110528 DOI: 10.1038/s41585-023-00837-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023]
Abstract
Male factor infertility affects 50% of infertile couples worldwide; the most severe form, non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA), affects 10-15% of infertile males. Treatment for individuals with NOA is limited to microsurgical sperm extraction paired with in vitro fertilization intracytoplasmic sperm injection. Unfortunately, spermatozoa are only retrieved in ~50% of patients, resulting in live birth rates of 21-46%. Regenerative therapies could provide a solution; however, understanding the cell-type-specific mechanisms of cellular dysfunction is a fundamental necessity to develop precision medicine strategies that could overcome these abnormalities and promote regeneration of spermatogenesis. A number of mechanisms of cellular dysfunction have been elucidated in NOA testicular cells. These mechanisms include abnormalities in both somatic cells and germ cells in NOA testes, such as somatic cell immaturity, aberrant growth factor signalling, increased inflammation, increased apoptosis and abnormal extracellular matrix regulation. Future cell-type-specific investigations in identifying modulators of cellular transcription and translation will be key to understanding upstream dysregulation, and these studies will require development of in vitro models to functionally interrogate spermatogenic niche dysfunction in both somatic and germ cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arina Piechka
- Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Vancouver Prostate Centre, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Sydney Sparanese
- Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Luke Witherspoon
- Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Faraz Hach
- Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Vancouver Prostate Centre, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Ryan Flannigan
- Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
- Vancouver Prostate Centre, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
- Department of Urology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
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7
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Lu X, Luo Y, Nie X, Zhang B, Wang X, Li R, Liu G, Zhou Q, Liu Z, Fan L, Hotaling JM, Zhang Z, Bo H, Guo J. Single-cell multi-omics analysis of human testicular germ cell tumor reveals its molecular features and microenvironment. Nat Commun 2023; 14:8462. [PMID: 38123589 PMCID: PMC10733385 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-44305-9] [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: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Seminoma is the most common malignant solid tumor in 14 to 44 year-old men. However, its molecular features and tumor microenvironment (TME) is largely unexplored. Here, we perform a series of studies via genomics profiling (single cell multi-omics and spatial transcriptomics) and functional examination using seminoma samples and a seminoma cell line. We identify key gene expression programs share between seminoma and primordial germ cells, and further characterize the functions of TFAP2C in promoting tumor invasion and migration. We also identify 15 immune cell subtypes in TME, and find that subtypes with exhaustion features were located closer to the tumor region through combined spatial transcriptome analysis. Furthermore, we identify key pathways and genes that may facilitate seminoma disseminating beyond the seminiferous tubules. These findings advance our knowledge of seminoma tumorigenesis and produce a multi-omics atlas of in situ human seminoma microenvironment, which could help discover potential therapy targets for seminoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojian Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yanwei Luo
- Department of Blood Transfusion, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Xichen Nie
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Bailing Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoyan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Ran Li
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Guangmin Liu
- NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive Engineering, Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Qianyin Zhou
- NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive Engineering, Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Zhizhong Liu
- NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive Engineering, Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Liqing Fan
- NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive Engineering, Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - James M Hotaling
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Zhe Zhang
- Department of Urology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.
| | - Hao Bo
- NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive Engineering, Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.
- Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, Hunan, China.
| | - Jingtao Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, China.
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
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8
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Khan MR, Akbari A, Nicholas TJ, Castillo-Madeen H, Ajmal M, Haq TU, Laan M, Quinlan AR, Ahuja JS, Shah AA, Conrad DF. Genome sequencing of Pakistani families with male infertility identifies deleterious genotypes in SPAG6, CCDC9, TKTL1, TUBA3C, and M1AP. Andrology 2023:10.1111/andr.13570. [PMID: 38073178 PMCID: PMC11163020 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Revised: 10/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There are likely to be hundreds of monogenic forms of human male infertility. Whole genome sequencing (WGS) is the most efficient way to make progress in mapping the causative genetic variants, and ultimately improve clinical management of the disease in each patient. Recruitment of consanguineous families is an effective approach to ascertain the genetic forms of many diseases. OBJECTIVES To apply WGS to large consanguineous families with likely hereditary male infertility and identify potential genetic cases. MATERIALS AND METHODS We recruited seven large families with clinically diagnosed male infertility from rural Pakistan, including five with a history of consanguinity. We generated WGS data on 26 individuals (3-5 per family) and analyzed the resulting data with a computational pipeline to identify potentially causal single nucleotide variants, indels, and copy number variants. RESULTS We identified plausible genetic causes in five of the seven families, including a homozygous 10 kb deletion of exon 2 in a well-established male infertility gene (M1AP), and biallelic missense substitutions (SPAG6, CCDC9, TUBA3C) and an in-frame hemizygous deletion (TKTL1) in genes with emerging relevance. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION The rate of genetic findings using the current approach (71%) was much higher than what we recently achieved using whole-exome sequencing (WES) of unrelated singleton cases (20%). Furthermore, we identified a pathogenic single-exon deletion in M1AP that would be undetectable by WES. Screening more families with WGS, especially in underrepresented populations, will further reveal the types of variants underlying male infertility and accelerate the use of genetics in the patient management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Riaz Khan
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Malakand, Chakdara, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
| | - Arvand Akbari
- Center for Embryonic Cell & Gene Therapy, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Thomas J Nicholas
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Helen Castillo-Madeen
- Center for Embryonic Cell & Gene Therapy, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Muhammad Ajmal
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Malakand, Chakdara, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
| | - Taqweem Ul Haq
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Malakand, Chakdara, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
| | - Maris Laan
- Chair of Human Genetics, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Aaron R Quinlan
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Jasvinder S Ahuja
- Center for Embryonic Cell & Gene Therapy, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Aftab Ali Shah
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Malakand, Chakdara, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
| | - Donald F Conrad
- Center for Embryonic Cell & Gene Therapy, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
- Division of Genetics, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Beaverton, Oregon, USA
- Department of Molecular and Medical Genetics, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
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9
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Johannsen EB, Skakkebæk A, Kalucka JM, Fedder J, Gravholt CH, Just J. The testicular microvasculature in Klinefelter syndrome is immature with compromised integrity and characterized by excessive inflammatory cross-talk. Hum Reprod 2023; 38:2339-2349. [PMID: 37910660 PMCID: PMC10694403 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dead224] [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: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Does Klinefelter syndrome (KS) lead to a distinct gene expression pattern at single-cell level in the testes that could provide insight into the reported microvascular dysfunction in the testes? SUMMARY ANSWER A distinct gene expression pattern within microvascular-associated cells of males with KS suggests excessive endothelial cell (EC) activation, disorganized vessel formation, and the presence of immature vessels with compromised integrity. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Recent studies show that males with KS exhibit microvascular dysfunction in their testes, which affects blood flow and is associated with lower circulating levels of testosterone. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION A comparative cross-sectional study of males with KS (n = 6), non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) (n = 5), cryptozoospermia (n = 3), and controls (n = 15) was carried out. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS We analyzed publicly available single-cell RNA sequencing data of testicular cells from males with KS, males with NOA, males with cryptozoospermia, and controls. The integration of these datasets allowed us to analyze gene expression profiles and communication patterns among the cell types within the testis and to identify capillary ECs to investigate changes at the microvascular level. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Rooted in changes at the single-cell level, our study demonstrates a shift in gene expression forming the foundation for altered cellular communication, microvascular remodeling, and pro-inflammatory responses within the testes of males with KS. We identified genes that were dysregulated in capillary ECs from males with KS (Padj < 0.05). Specifically, the unique microvascular gene expression in males with KS indicated enhanced capillary EC activation and increased inflammatory cross-talk, leading to impaired vessel maturation and increased EC barrier permeability. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Our study is constrained by an unbalanced design, with varying sample sizes and number of cells within each group. We acknowledge the restricted access to clinical information. In addition, our findings were deduced from changes in gene expression, which limits us to infer potential biological consequences arising from these alterations. Furthermore, the absence of a pre-pubertal age group limits the generalizability of our findings and warrants further investigation. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS This study offers novel insights into the testicular pathophysiology in KS and underscores the potential contribution of microvascular dysfunction to the hypogonadism and infertility observed in males with KS. While this study aims to better understand the microvascular dysfunction in KS, the precise connections to testosterone deficiency and testicular atrophy remain to be fully elucidated. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) A.S. was supported by the Independent Research Fund Denmark (0134-00130B). C.H.G. was supported by Novo Nordisk Foundation (NNF15OC0016474, NNF20OC0060610), 'Fonden til lægevidenskabens fremme', the Familien Hede Nielsen foundation and the Independent Research Fund Denmark (0134-00406A). E.B.J. was supported by Aarhus University and E.B.J. and C.H.G by the Independent Research Fund Denmark (2096-00165A). J.M.K. was supported by Lundbeckfonden (R307-2018-3667), Carlsberg Fonden (CF19-0687), Novo Nordisk Fonden (0073440) and Steno Diabetes Center Aarhus (SDCA). The authors declare no conflicts of interest. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma B Johannsen
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus N, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Anne Skakkebæk
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus N, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus N, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Joanna M Kalucka
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus C, Denmark
- Steno Diabetes Center Aarhus, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Jens Fedder
- Centre of Andrology and Fertility Clinic, Odense University Hospital, Odense C, Denmark
- Research Unit of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, University of Southern Denmark, Odense C, Denmark
| | - Claus H Gravholt
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus N, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus N, Denmark
- Department of Endocrinology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Jesper Just
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus N, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus N, Denmark
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10
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Houston BJ, Nguyen J, Merriner DJ, O'Connor AE, Lopes AM, Nagirnaja L, Friedrich C, Kliesch S, Tüttelmann F, Aston KI, Conrad DF, Hobbs RM, Dunleavy JE, O'Bryan MK. AXDND1 is required to balance spermatogonial commitment and for sperm tail formation in mice and humans. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.11.02.565050. [PMID: 38014244 PMCID: PMC10680566 DOI: 10.1101/2023.11.02.565050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
Dynein complexes are large, multi-unit assemblies involved in many biological processes including male fertility via their critical roles in protein transport and axoneme motility. Previously we identified a pathogenic variant in the dynein gene AXDND1 in an infertile man. Subsequently we identified an additional four potentially compound heterozygous variants of unknown significance in AXDND1 in two additional infertile men. We thus tested the role of AXDND1 in mammalian male fertility by generating a knockout mouse model. Axdnd1 -/- males were sterile at all ages but could undergo one round of histologically complete spermatogenesis. Subsequently, a progressive imbalance of spermatogonial commitment to spermatogenesis over self-renewal occurred, ultimately leading to catastrophic germ cell loss, loss of blood-testis barrier patency and immune cell infiltration. Sperm produced during the first wave of spermatogenesis were immotile due to abnormal axoneme structure, including the presence of ectopic vesicles and abnormalities in outer dense fibres and microtubule doublet structures. Sperm output was additionally compromised by a severe spermiation defect and abnormal sperm individualisation. Collectively, our data highlight the essential roles of AXDND1 as a regulator of spermatogonial commitment to spermatogenesis and during the processes of spermiogenesis where it is essential for sperm tail development, release and motility.
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11
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Liu H, Zhang Z, Gao Y, Lin H, Zhu Z, Zheng H, Ye W, Luo Z, Qing Z, Xiao X, Hu L, Zhou Y, Zhang X. Leydig cell metabolic disorder act as a new mechanism affecting for focal spermatogenesis in Klinefelter syndrome patients: a real world cross-sectional study base on the age. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1266730. [PMID: 38027184 PMCID: PMC10650597 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1266730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Klinefelter's syndrome (KS) was once considered infertile due to congenital chromosomal abnormalities, but the presence of focal spermatozoa changed this. The key to predict and promote spermatogenesis is to find targets that regulate focal spermatogenesis. Objective To explore the trend of fertility changes in KS patients at different ages and identify potential therapeutic targets. Methods Bibliometric analysis was used to collect clinical research data on KS from the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) from 1992 to 2022. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 75 KS patients who underwent microscopic testicular sperm extraction (mTESE) from 2017 to 2022 in the real world. The reproductive hormones, testicular histopathology, androgen receptors, insulin-like factor 3 (INSL3) receptors and sperm recovery rate (SRR) were analyzed. Results Male infertility, dysplasia, Sertoli cells, Leydig cells, testosterone and spermatogenesis were the research focuses related to KS. Luteinizing hormone (LH), testosterone, and INSL3 were evaluation indicators of Leydig cell function that fluctuate with age. Testosterone and LH peaked at ages 13-19 and 30-45, while INSL3 only peaked at ages 13-19. 27 patients (27/75) recovered sperm through mTESE and experienced SRR peaks at the ages of 20, 28, 34, and 37. The SRR of fibrosis patients was 46.15%, fatty degeneration was 7.14%, and melanosis was 40.00%. The INSL3 and androgen receptors were highly expressed and roughly balanced in focal spermatogenesis. Conclusion Abnormal metabolism of Leydig cells led to imbalanced expression of INSL3 and androgen receptors, which might be a potential target for spermatogenesis in KS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huang Liu
- Department of Andrology, National Health Commission (NHC) Key Laboratory of Male Reproduction and Genetics, Guangdong Provincial Reproductive Science Institute (Guangdong Provincial Fertility Hospital), Human Sperm Bank of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhenhui Zhang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Shunde Hospital, Southern Medical University (The First People’s Hospital of Shunde), Foshan, China
| | - Yong Gao
- Department of Reproductive Medicine Center, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Objective and Gynecological Diseases, Sun Yat-sen University First Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hai Lin
- Department of Andrology, National Health Commission (NHC) Key Laboratory of Male Reproduction and Genetics, Guangdong Provincial Reproductive Science Institute (Guangdong Provincial Fertility Hospital), Human Sperm Bank of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhiyong Zhu
- Department of Andrology, National Health Commission (NHC) Key Laboratory of Male Reproduction and Genetics, Guangdong Provincial Reproductive Science Institute (Guangdong Provincial Fertility Hospital), Human Sperm Bank of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, China
| | - Houbin Zheng
- Department of Andrology, National Health Commission (NHC) Key Laboratory of Male Reproduction and Genetics, Guangdong Provincial Reproductive Science Institute (Guangdong Provincial Fertility Hospital), Human Sperm Bank of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wenjing Ye
- Reproductive Medicine Center, National Health Commission (NHC) Key Laboratory of Male Reproduction and Genetics, Guangdong Provincial Reproductive Science Institute (Guangdong Provincial Fertility Hospital), Human Sperm Bank of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zefang Luo
- Department of Andrology, National Health Commission (NHC) Key Laboratory of Male Reproduction and Genetics, Guangdong Provincial Reproductive Science Institute (Guangdong Provincial Fertility Hospital), Human Sperm Bank of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhaohui Qing
- Department of Anesthesiology, National Health Commission (NHC) Key Laboratory of Male Reproduction and Genetics, Guangdong Provincial Reproductive Science Institute (Guangdong Provincial Fertility Hospital), Human Sperm Bank of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaolan Xiao
- Department of Anesthesiology, National Health Commission (NHC) Key Laboratory of Male Reproduction and Genetics, Guangdong Provincial Reproductive Science Institute (Guangdong Provincial Fertility Hospital), Human Sperm Bank of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lei Hu
- Department of Andrology, National Health Commission (NHC) Key Laboratory of Male Reproduction and Genetics, Guangdong Provincial Reproductive Science Institute (Guangdong Provincial Fertility Hospital), Human Sperm Bank of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yu Zhou
- Department of Andrology, National Health Commission (NHC) Key Laboratory of Male Reproduction and Genetics, Guangdong Provincial Reproductive Science Institute (Guangdong Provincial Fertility Hospital), Human Sperm Bank of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xinzong Zhang
- Department of Andrology, National Health Commission (NHC) Key Laboratory of Male Reproduction and Genetics, Guangdong Provincial Reproductive Science Institute (Guangdong Provincial Fertility Hospital), Human Sperm Bank of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, China
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12
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Pozza C, Sesti F, Tenuta M, Spaziani M, Tarantino C, Carlomagno F, Minnetti M, Pofi R, Paparella R, Lenzi A, Radicioni A, Isidori AM, Tarani L, Gianfrilli D. Testicular Dysfunction in 47,XXY Boys: When It All Begins. A Semilongitudinal Study. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2023; 108:2486-2499. [PMID: 37043499 PMCID: PMC10505551 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgad205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2023] [Indexed: 04/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Klinefelter syndrome is the most common chromosomal disorder in males and the most common cause of hypergonadotropic hypogonadism. We describe the natural history of testicular dysfunction in patients with Klinefelter syndrome through the integration of clinical, hormonal, and quantitative ultrasound data in a life-course perspective. DESIGN Prospective semilongitudinal study. METHODS We included 155 subjects with 47,XXY karyotype (age range: 7 months-55 years) naïve to testosterone replacement therapy. Subjects were divided according to pubertal stage and age group (transition age and adults). Serial clinical, hormonal, and testicular ultrasound (US) assessments were performed. RESULTS Testicular development progresses until Tanner stage 4, with subsequent regression, whereas Sertoli and germ cell impairment is not hormonally detected before Tanner stages 3-4, as reflected by normal inhibin B values until stage 4 and the fall in the inhibin B/follicle-stimulating hormone ratio thereafter. The testosterone/luteinizing hormone ratio peaks during Tanner stages 2-3 and declines from Tanner stage 4 onward, preceding the development of overt hypogonadism. US echotexture progressively worsens until transition age, reflecting ongoing gonadal compromise, whereas quantitative US echotexture measures and the presence of both hypoechoic lesions and microlithiasis independently and significantly predict a lower circulating testosterone level. CONCLUSIONS The findings from this large prospective study contribute to our understanding of the natural history of testicular dysfunction in Klinefelter syndrome, underlining the importance of quantitative testicular US in infancy and childhood, as well as during pubertal development and transition age, for the optimal care of Klinefelter syndrome patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlotta Pozza
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Franz Sesti
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Marta Tenuta
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Matteo Spaziani
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Chiara Tarantino
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Carlomagno
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Marianna Minnetti
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Riccardo Pofi
- Department of Endocrinology, Oxford Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism and NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, Churchill Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford OX37LE, UK
| | - Roberto Paparella
- Department of Pediatrics, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Lenzi
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Radicioni
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea M Isidori
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Luigi Tarani
- Department of Pediatrics, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Daniele Gianfrilli
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
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13
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Jia H, Wang W, Zhou Z, Chen Z, Lan Z, Bo H, Fan L. Single-cell RNA sequencing technology in human spermatogenesis: Progresses and perspectives. Mol Cell Biochem 2023:10.1007/s11010-023-04840-x. [PMID: 37659974 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-023-04840-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/04/2023]
Abstract
Spermatogenesis, a key part of the spermiation process, is regulated by a combination of key cells, such as primordial germ cells, spermatogonial stem cells, and somatic cells, such as Sertoli cells. Abnormal spermatogenesis can lead to azoospermia, testicular tumors, and other diseases related to male infertility. The application of single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) technology in male reproduction is gradually increasing with its unique insight into deep mining and analysis. The data cover different periods of neonatal, prepubertal, pubertal, and adult stages. Different types of male infertility diseases including obstructive and non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA), Klinefelter Syndrome (KS), Sertoli Cell Only Syndrome (SCOS), and testicular tumors are also covered. We briefly review the principles and application of scRNA-seq and summarize the research results and application directions in spermatogenesis in different periods and pathological states. Moreover, we discuss the challenges of applying this technology in male reproduction and the prospects of combining it with other technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanbo Jia
- NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive Engineering, Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Wei Wang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive Engineering, Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Zhaowen Zhou
- NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive Engineering, Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Zhiyi Chen
- NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive Engineering, Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Zijun Lan
- NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive Engineering, Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Hao Bo
- NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive Engineering, Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.
- Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, Hunan, China.
| | - Liqing Fan
- NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive Engineering, Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.
- Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, Hunan, China.
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14
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Tallaksen HBL, Johannsen EB, Just J, Viuff MH, Gravholt CH, Skakkebæk A. The multi-omic landscape of sex chromosome abnormalities: current status and future directions. Endocr Connect 2023; 12:e230011. [PMID: 37399516 PMCID: PMC10448593 DOI: 10.1530/ec-23-0011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/05/2023]
Abstract
Sex chromosome abnormalities (SCAs) are chromosomal disorders with either a complete or partial loss or gain of sex chromosomes. The most frequent SCAs include Turner syndrome (45,X), Klinefelter syndrome (47,XXY), Trisomy X syndrome (47,XXX), and Double Y syndrome (47,XYY). The phenotype seen in SCAs is highly variable and may not merely be due to the direct genomic imbalance from altered sex chromosome gene dosage but also due to additive alterations in gene networks and regulatory pathways across the genome as well as individual genetic modifiers. This review summarizes the current insight into the genomics of SCAs. In addition, future directions of research that can contribute to decipher the genomics of SCA are discussed such as single-cell omics, spatial transcriptomics, system biology thinking, human-induced pluripotent stem cells, and animal models, and how these data may be combined to bridge the gap between genomics and the clinical phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helene Bandsholm Leere Tallaksen
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Emma B Johannsen
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Jesper Just
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Mette Hansen Viuff
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Claus H Gravholt
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Endocrinology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Anne Skakkebæk
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
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15
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Rockweiler NB, Ramu A, Nagirnaja L, Wong WH, Noordam MJ, Drubin CW, Huang N, Miller B, Todres EZ, Vigh-Conrad KA, Zito A, Small KS, Ardlie KG, Cohen BA, Conrad DF. The origins and functional effects of postzygotic mutations throughout the human life span. Science 2023; 380:eabn7113. [PMID: 37053313 DOI: 10.1126/science.abn7113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/15/2023]
Abstract
Postzygotic mutations (PZMs) begin to accrue in the human genome immediately after fertilization, but how and when PZMs affect development and lifetime health remain unclear. To study the origins and functional consequences of PZMs, we generated a multitissue atlas of PZMs spanning 54 tissue and cell types from 948 donors. Nearly half the variation in mutation burden among tissue samples can be explained by measured technical and biological effects, and 9% can be attributed to donor-specific effects. Through phylogenetic reconstruction of PZMs, we found that their type and predicted functional impact vary during prenatal development, across tissues, and through the germ cell life cycle. Thus, methods for interpreting effects across the body and the life span are needed to fully understand the consequences of genetic variants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole B Rockweiler
- Department of Genetics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Avinash Ramu
- Department of Genetics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Liina Nagirnaja
- Division of Genetics, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Beaverton, OR 97006, USA
| | - Wing H Wong
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology and Oncology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Michiel J Noordam
- Department of Genetics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Casey W Drubin
- Department of Genetics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Ni Huang
- Department of Genetics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Brian Miller
- Division of Genetics, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Beaverton, OR 97006, USA
| | - Ellen Z Todres
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Katinka A Vigh-Conrad
- Division of Genetics, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Beaverton, OR 97006, USA
| | - Antonino Zito
- Department of Twin Research and Genetic Epidemiology, King's College London, London SE1 7EH, UK
| | - Kerrin S Small
- Department of Twin Research and Genetic Epidemiology, King's College London, London SE1 7EH, UK
| | | | - Barak A Cohen
- Department of Genetics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Donald F Conrad
- Department of Genetics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
- Division of Genetics, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Beaverton, OR 97006, USA
- Center for Embryonic Cell and Gene Therapy, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA
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16
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Miao N, Zeng Z, Lee T, Guo Q, Zheng W, Cai W, Chen W, Wang J, Sun T. Integrative epigenome profiling of 47XXY provides insights into whole genomic DNA hypermethylation and active chromatin accessibility. Front Mol Biosci 2023; 10:1128739. [PMID: 37051325 PMCID: PMC10083376 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2023.1128739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Klinefelter syndrome (KS, 47XXY) is a disorder characterized by sex chromosomal aneuploidy, which may lead to changes in epigenetic regulations of gene expression. To define epigenetic architectures in 47XXY, we annotated DNA methylation in euploid males (46XY) and females (46XX), and 47XXY individuals using whole genome bisulfite sequencing (WGBS) and integrated chromatin accessbilty, and detected abnormal hypermethylation in 47XXY. Furthermore, we detected altered chromatin accessibility in 47XXY, in particular in chromosome X, using Assay for Transposase-Accessible Chromatin sequencing (ATAC-seq) in cultured amniotic cells. Our results construct the whole genome-wide DNA methylation map in 47XXY, and provide new insights into the early epigenomic dysregulation resulting from an extra chromosome X in 47XXY.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Miao
- Center for Precision Medicine, School of Medicine and School of Biomedical Sciences, Huaqiao University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Zhiwei Zeng
- Center for Precision Medicine, School of Medicine and School of Biomedical Sciences, Huaqiao University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Trevor Lee
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Cornell University Weill Medical College, New York, NY, United States
| | - Qiwei Guo
- United Diagnostic and Research Center for Clinical Genetics, Women and Children’s Hospital, School of Medicine & School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Wenwei Zheng
- Quanzhou Women and Children’s Hospital, Quanzhou, Fujian, China
| | - Wenjie Cai
- Department of Radiation Oncology, First Hospital of Quanzhou, Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, Fujian, China
| | - Wanhua Chen
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, First Hospital of Quanzhou, Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, Fujian, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Center for Precision Medicine, School of Medicine and School of Biomedical Sciences, Huaqiao University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Tao Sun
- Center for Precision Medicine, School of Medicine and School of Biomedical Sciences, Huaqiao University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
- *Correspondence: Tao Sun,
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17
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Gravholt CH, Ferlin A, Gromoll J, Juul A, Raznahan A, van Rijn S, Rogol AD, Skakkebæk A, Tartaglia N, Swaab H. New developments and future trajectories in supernumerary sex chromosome abnormalities: a summary of the 2022 3rd International Workshop on Klinefelter Syndrome, Trisomy X, and XYY. Endocr Connect 2023; 12:e220500. [PMID: 36598290 PMCID: PMC9986408 DOI: 10.1530/ec-22-0500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
The 3rd International Workshop on Klinefelter Syndrome, Trisomy X, and 47,XYY syndrome was held in Leiden, the Netherlands, on September 12-14, 2022. Here, we review new data presented at the workshop and discuss scientific and clinical trajectories. We focus on shortcomings in knowledge and therefore point out future areas for research. We focus on the genetics and genomics of supernumerary sex chromosome syndromes with new data being presented. Most knowledge centre specifically on Klinefelter syndrome, where aspects on testosterone deficiency and the relation to bone, muscle and fat were discussed, as was infertility and the treatment thereof. Both trisomy X and 47,XYY syndrome are frequently affected by infertility. Transitioning of males with Klinefelter syndrome was addressed, as this seemingly simple process in practise is often difficult. It is now realized that neurocognitive changes are pervasive in all supernumerary sex chromosome syndromes, which were extensively discussed. New intervention projects were also described, and exciting new data concerning these were presented. Advocacy organizations were present, describing the enormous burden carried by parents when having to explain their child's specific syndrome to most professionals whenever in contact with health care and education systems. It was also pointed out that most countries do not have health care systems that diagnose patients with supernumerary sex chromosome syndromes, thus pinpointing a clear deficiency in the current genetic testing and care models. At the end of the workshop, a roadmap towards the development of new international clinical care guidelines for Klinefelter syndrome was decided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claus H Gravholt
- Department of Endocrinology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Alberto Ferlin
- Department of Medicine, Unit of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Joerg Gromoll
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Münster, Germany
| | - Anders Juul
- Department of Growth and Reproduction Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Armin Raznahan
- Section on Developmental Neurogenomics, National Institute of Mental Health Intramural Research Program, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Sophie van Rijn
- Clinical Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands and TRIXY Center of Expertise, Leiden University Treatment and Expertise Centre (LUBEC), Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Alan D Rogol
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Anne Skakkebæk
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Nicole Tartaglia
- Department of Pediatrics, Developmental Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Hanna Swaab
- Clinical Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands and TRIXY Center of Expertise, Leiden University Treatment and Expertise Centre (LUBEC), Leiden, The Netherlands
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18
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Human in vitro spermatogenesis as a regenerative therapy - where do we stand? Nat Rev Urol 2023:10.1038/s41585-023-00723-4. [PMID: 36750655 DOI: 10.1038/s41585-023-00723-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
Spermatogenesis involves precise temporal and spatial gene expression and cell signalling to reach a coordinated balance between self-renewal and differentiation of spermatogonial stem cells through various germ cell states including mitosis, and meiosis I and II, which result in the generation of haploid cells with a unique genetic identity. Subsequently, these round spermatids undergo a series of morphological changes to shed excess cytoplast, develop a midpiece and tail, and undergo DNA repackaging to eventually form millions of spermatozoa. The goal of recreating this process in vitro has been pursued since the 1920s as a tool to treat male factor infertility in patients with azoospermia. Continued advances in reproductive bioengineering led to successful generation of mature, functional sperm in mice and, in the past 3 years, in humans. Multiple approaches to study human in vitro spermatogenesis have been proposed, but technical and ethical obstacles have limited the ability to complete spermiogenesis, and further work is needed to establish a robust culture system for clinical application.
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19
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Al-Sharkawi M, Calonga-Solís V, Dressler FF, Busch H, Hiort O, Werner R. Persistence of foetal testicular features in patients with defective androgen signalling. Eur J Endocrinol 2023; 188:7017644. [PMID: 36721956 DOI: 10.1093/ejendo/lvad007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Revised: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Congenital defects of androgen synthesis or action in 46,XY individuals can result in impaired virilisation, despite the apparent testicular development. In a recent case, report of a young adult with complete androgen insensitivity syndrome (CAIS), tumourous gonadal tissue was shown to express HSD17B3 in Sertoli cells (SCs) and not in Leydig cells (LCs). This expression pattern differs from the typical adult human testis and resembles a foetal mouse testis, suggesting an underlying testicular development and function defect. Here, we investigate the effect of altered androgen signalling in gonads from five 46,XY individuals with defects in androgen synthesis or action. METHODS Gonadal tissue sections from four patients with CAIS, one with CYP17A1 deficiency, and one control were immunostained for LC developmental and steroidogenic markers. The expression of some of these markers during development was investigated by reanalysing previously published single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) data from normal human testicular tissues. RESULTS All gonadal tissues from the patients show an exclusive expression of HSD17B3 in SCs and an expression of the foetal/immature LC marker DLK1 in a subset of LCs, suggesting an androgen-dependent differentiation defect of adult SCs and LCs. Furthermore, reanalysis of scRNA-seq data reveals an expression of HSD17B3 in foetal and neonatal SCs that is downregulated in adult SCs. CONCLUSIONS Androgen signalling may affect the differentiation of adults, but possibly not foetal SCs or LCs, and may induce a shift of testosterone production from the tubular compartment in the foetal phase to the interstitial compartment in the adult phase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mostafa Al-Sharkawi
- Division of Paediatric Endocrinology and Diabetology, Department of Paediatrics, University of Lübeck, 23562 Lübeck, Germany
- Biochemical Genetics Department, Human Genetics and Genome Research Institute, 12622 Dokki, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Verónica Calonga-Solís
- Division of Paediatric Endocrinology and Diabetology, Department of Paediatrics, University of Lübeck, 23562 Lübeck, Germany
- Medical Systems Biology Division, Lübeck Institute of Experimental Dermatology and Institute for Cardiogenetics, University of Lübeck, 23562 Lübeck, Germany
| | - Franz F Dressler
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Lübeck, 23562 Lübeck, Germany
- Institute of Pathology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, 10117, Berlin, Germany
| | - Hauke Busch
- Medical Systems Biology Division, Lübeck Institute of Experimental Dermatology and Institute for Cardiogenetics, University of Lübeck, 23562 Lübeck, Germany
| | - Olaf Hiort
- Division of Paediatric Endocrinology and Diabetology, Department of Paediatrics, University of Lübeck, 23562 Lübeck, Germany
| | - Ralf Werner
- Division of Paediatric Endocrinology and Diabetology, Department of Paediatrics, University of Lübeck, 23562 Lübeck, Germany
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Lübeck, 23562 Lübeck, Germany
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20
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Di Persio S, Neuhaus N. Human spermatogonial stem cells and their niche in male (in)fertility: novel concepts from single-cell RNA-sequencing. Hum Reprod 2023; 38:1-13. [PMID: 36409992 PMCID: PMC9825264 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deac245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Revised: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The amount of single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq) data produced in the field of human male reproduction has steadily increased. Transcriptional profiles of thousands of testicular cells have been generated covering the human neonatal, prepubertal, pubertal and adult period as well as different types of male infertility; the latter include non-obstructive azoospermia, cryptozoospermia, Klinefelter syndrome and azoospermia factor deletions. In this review, we provide an overview of transcriptional changes in different testicular subpopulations during postnatal development and in cases of male infertility. Moreover, we review novel concepts regarding the existence of spermatogonial and somatic cell subtypes as well as their crosstalk and provide corresponding marker genes to facilitate their identification. We discuss the potential clinical implications of scRNA-seq findings, the need for spatial information and the necessity to corroborate findings by exploring other levels of regulation, including at the epigenetic or protein level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Di Persio
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Nina Neuhaus
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital of Münster, Münster, Germany
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21
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Dong F, Ping P, Ma Y, Chen XF. Application of single-cell RNA sequencing on human testicular samples: a comprehensive review. Int J Biol Sci 2023; 19:2167-2197. [PMID: 37151874 PMCID: PMC10158017 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.82191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2022] [Accepted: 03/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023] Open
Abstract
So far there has been no comprehensive review using systematic literature search strategies to show the application of single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) in the human testis of the whole life cycle (from embryos to aging males). Here, we summarized the application of scRNA-seq analyses on various human testicular biological samples. A systematic search was conducted in PubMed and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO), focusing on English researches published after 2009. Articles related to GEO data-series were also retrieved in PubMed or BioRxiv. 81 full-length studies were finally included in the review. ScRNA-seq has been widely used on different human testicular samples with various library strategies, and new cell subtypes such as State 0 spermatogonial stem cells (SSC) and stage_a/b/c Sertoli cells (SC) were identified. For the development of normal testes, scRNA-seq-based evidence showed dynamic transcriptional changes of both germ cells and somatic cells from embryos to adults. And dysregulated metabolic signaling or hedgehog signaling were revealed by scRNA-seq in aged SC or Leydig cells (LC), respectively. For infertile males, scRNA-seq studies revealed profound changes of testes, such as the increased proportion of immature SC/LC of Klinefelter syndrome, the somatic immaturity and altered germline autophagy of patients with non-obstructive azoospermia, and the repressed differentiation of SSC in trans-females receiving testosterone inhibition therapy. Besides, the re-analyzing of public scRNA-seq data made further discoveries such as the potential vulnerability of testicular SARS-CoV-2 infection, and both evolutionary conservatism and divergence among species. ScRNA-seq analyses would unveil mechanisms of testes' development and changes so as to help developing novel treatments for male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fan Dong
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
| | - Ping Ping
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
| | - Yi Ma
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
- ✉ Corresponding author: Dr. Xiang-Feng Chen. Address: 845 Lingshan Road, Shanghai, P. R. China, 200135. Telephone: +86-21-20284500; Fax: +86-21-58394262; Email address: . Dr. Yi Ma. Address: 845 Lingshan Road, Shanghai, P. R. China, 200135. Telephone: +86-21-20284500; Fax: +86-21-58394262; Email address:
| | - Xiang-Feng Chen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Human Sperm Bank, Shanghai, China
- ✉ Corresponding author: Dr. Xiang-Feng Chen. Address: 845 Lingshan Road, Shanghai, P. R. China, 200135. Telephone: +86-21-20284500; Fax: +86-21-58394262; Email address: . Dr. Yi Ma. Address: 845 Lingshan Road, Shanghai, P. R. China, 200135. Telephone: +86-21-20284500; Fax: +86-21-58394262; Email address:
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22
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Nagirnaja L, Lopes AM, Charng WL, Miller B, Stakaitis R, Golubickaite I, Stendahl A, Luan T, Friedrich C, Mahyari E, Fadial E, Kasak L, Vigh-Conrad K, Oud MS, Xavier MJ, Cheers SR, James ER, Guo J, Jenkins TG, Riera-Escamilla A, Barros A, Carvalho F, Fernandes S, Gonçalves J, Gurnett CA, Jørgensen N, Jezek D, Jungheim ES, Kliesch S, McLachlan RI, Omurtag KR, Pilatz A, Sandlow JI, Smith J, Eisenberg ML, Hotaling JM, Jarvi KA, Punab M, Rajpert-De Meyts E, Carrell DT, Krausz C, Laan M, O’Bryan MK, Schlegel PN, Tüttelmann F, Veltman JA, Almstrup K, Aston KI, Conrad DF. Diverse monogenic subforms of human spermatogenic failure. Nat Commun 2022; 13:7953. [PMID: 36572685 PMCID: PMC9792524 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-35661-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) is the most severe form of male infertility and typically incurable. Defining the genetic basis of NOA has proven challenging, and the most advanced classification of NOA subforms is not based on genetics, but simple description of testis histology. In this study, we exome-sequenced over 1000 clinically diagnosed NOA cases and identified a plausible recessive Mendelian cause in 20%. We find further support for 21 genes in a 2-stage burden test with 2072 cases and 11,587 fertile controls. The disrupted genes are primarily on the autosomes, enriched for undescribed human "knockouts", and, for the most part, have yet to be linked to a Mendelian trait. Integration with single-cell RNA sequencing data shows that azoospermia genes can be grouped into molecular subforms with synchronized expression patterns, and analogs of these subforms exist in mice. This analysis framework identifies groups of genes with known roles in spermatogenesis but also reveals unrecognized subforms, such as a set of genes expressed across mitotic divisions of differentiating spermatogonia. Our findings highlight NOA as an understudied Mendelian disorder and provide a conceptual structure for organizing the complex genetics of male infertility, which may provide a rational basis for disease classification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liina Nagirnaja
- grid.5288.70000 0000 9758 5690Division of Genetics, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Beaverton, OR USA
| | - Alexandra M. Lopes
- grid.5808.50000 0001 1503 7226i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal ,grid.5808.50000 0001 1503 7226IPATIMUP - Instituto de Patologia e Imunologia Molecular da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Wu-Lin Charng
- grid.4367.60000 0001 2355 7002Department of Neurology, Washington University, St. Louis, MO USA
| | - Brian Miller
- grid.5288.70000 0000 9758 5690Division of Genetics, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Beaverton, OR USA
| | - Rytis Stakaitis
- grid.475435.4Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark ,grid.475435.4International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark ,grid.45083.3a0000 0004 0432 6841Laboratory of Molecular Neurooncology, Neuroscience Institute, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Ieva Golubickaite
- grid.475435.4Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark ,grid.475435.4International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark ,grid.45083.3a0000 0004 0432 6841Department of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Alexandra Stendahl
- grid.5288.70000 0000 9758 5690Division of Genetics, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Beaverton, OR USA
| | - Tianpengcheng Luan
- grid.1008.90000 0001 2179 088XSchool of BioSciences, Faculty of Science, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC Australia
| | - Corinna Friedrich
- grid.5949.10000 0001 2172 9288Institute of Reproductive Genetics, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Eisa Mahyari
- grid.5288.70000 0000 9758 5690Division of Genetics, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Beaverton, OR USA
| | - Eloise Fadial
- grid.5288.70000 0000 9758 5690Division of Genetics, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Beaverton, OR USA
| | - Laura Kasak
- grid.10939.320000 0001 0943 7661Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Katinka Vigh-Conrad
- grid.5288.70000 0000 9758 5690Division of Genetics, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Beaverton, OR USA
| | - Manon S. Oud
- grid.10417.330000 0004 0444 9382Department of Human Genetics, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Miguel J. Xavier
- grid.1006.70000 0001 0462 7212Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, UK
| | - Samuel R. Cheers
- grid.1008.90000 0001 2179 088XSchool of BioSciences, Faculty of Science, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC Australia
| | - Emma R. James
- grid.223827.e0000 0001 2193 0096Andrology and IVF Laboratory, Department of Surgery (Urology), University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT USA ,grid.223827.e0000 0001 2193 0096Department of Human Genetics, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT USA
| | - Jingtao Guo
- grid.223827.e0000 0001 2193 0096Andrology and IVF Laboratory, Department of Surgery (Urology), University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT USA
| | - Timothy G. Jenkins
- grid.223827.e0000 0001 2193 0096Andrology and IVF Laboratory, Department of Surgery (Urology), University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT USA
| | - Antoni Riera-Escamilla
- grid.418813.70000 0004 1767 1951Andrology Department, Fundació Puigvert, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas Sant Pau (IIB-Sant Pau), Barcelona, Catalonia Spain ,grid.7080.f0000 0001 2296 0625Molecular Biology Laboratory, Fundació Puigvert, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas Sant Pau (IIB Sant Pau), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia 08025 Spain
| | - Alberto Barros
- grid.5808.50000 0001 1503 7226i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal ,grid.5808.50000 0001 1503 7226Serviço de Genética, Departamento de Patologia, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Filipa Carvalho
- grid.5808.50000 0001 1503 7226i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal ,grid.5808.50000 0001 1503 7226Serviço de Genética, Departamento de Patologia, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Susana Fernandes
- grid.5808.50000 0001 1503 7226i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal ,grid.5808.50000 0001 1503 7226Serviço de Genética, Departamento de Patologia, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - João Gonçalves
- grid.422270.10000 0001 2287 695XDepartamento de Genética Humana, Instituto Nacional de Saúde Dr. Ricardo Jorge, Lisboa, Portugal ,grid.10772.330000000121511713Centre for Toxicogenomics and Human Health, Nova Medical School, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Christina A. Gurnett
- grid.4367.60000 0001 2355 7002Department of Neurology, Washington University, St. Louis, MO USA
| | - Niels Jørgensen
- grid.475435.4Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark ,grid.475435.4International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Davor Jezek
- grid.4808.40000 0001 0657 4636Department of Histology and Embryology, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Emily S. Jungheim
- grid.16753.360000 0001 2299 3507Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Northwestern University, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, Chicago, IL USA
| | - Sabine Kliesch
- grid.16149.3b0000 0004 0551 4246Department of Clinical and Surgical Andrology, Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Robert I. McLachlan
- grid.1002.30000 0004 1936 7857Hudson Institute of Medical Research and the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC Australia
| | - Kenan R. Omurtag
- grid.34477.330000000122986657Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Washington University, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, St. Louis, MO USA
| | - Adrian Pilatz
- grid.8664.c0000 0001 2165 8627Clinic for Urology, Pediatric Urology and Andrology, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Jay I. Sandlow
- grid.30760.320000 0001 2111 8460Department of Urology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI USA
| | - James Smith
- grid.266102.10000 0001 2297 6811Department of Urology, University California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA USA
| | - Michael L. Eisenberg
- grid.168010.e0000000419368956Department of Urology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA USA
| | - James M. Hotaling
- grid.223827.e0000 0001 2193 0096Andrology and IVF Laboratory, Department of Surgery (Urology), University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT USA
| | - Keith A. Jarvi
- grid.17063.330000 0001 2157 2938Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Mount Sinai Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON Canada
| | - Margus Punab
- grid.412269.a0000 0001 0585 7044Andrology Center, Tartu University Hospital, Tartu, Estonia ,grid.10939.320000 0001 0943 7661Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Ewa Rajpert-De Meyts
- grid.475435.4Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark ,grid.475435.4International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Douglas T. Carrell
- grid.223827.e0000 0001 2193 0096Andrology and IVF Laboratory, Department of Surgery (Urology), University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT USA
| | - Csilla Krausz
- grid.8404.80000 0004 1757 2304Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Maris Laan
- grid.10939.320000 0001 0943 7661Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Moira K. O’Bryan
- grid.1008.90000 0001 2179 088XSchool of BioSciences, Faculty of Science, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC Australia ,grid.1002.30000 0004 1936 7857School of Biological Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC Australia
| | - Peter N. Schlegel
- grid.5386.8000000041936877XDepartment of Urology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY USA
| | - Frank Tüttelmann
- grid.5949.10000 0001 2172 9288Institute of Reproductive Genetics, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Joris A. Veltman
- grid.1006.70000 0001 0462 7212Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, UK
| | - Kristian Almstrup
- grid.475435.4Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark ,grid.475435.4International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Kenneth I. Aston
- grid.223827.e0000 0001 2193 0096Andrology and IVF Laboratory, Department of Surgery (Urology), University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT USA
| | - Donald F. Conrad
- grid.5288.70000 0000 9758 5690Division of Genetics, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Beaverton, OR USA
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Transcriptomic differences between fibrotic and non-fibrotic testicular tissue reveal possible key players in Klinefelter syndrome-related testicular fibrosis. Sci Rep 2022; 12:21518. [PMID: 36513788 PMCID: PMC9748020 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-26011-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Klinefelter syndrome (KS; 47,XXY) affects 1-2 in 1000 males. Most men with KS suffer from an early germ cell loss and testicular fibrosis from puberty onwards. Mechanisms responsible for these processes remain unknown. Previous genomics studies on testis tissue from men with KS focused on germ cell loss, while a transcriptomic analysis focused on testicular fibrosis has not yet been performed. This study aimed to identify factors involved in the fibrotic remodelling of KS testes by analysing the transcriptome of fibrotic and non-fibrotic testicular tissue. RNA sequencing was performed to compare the genes expressed in testicular samples with (KS and testis atrophy) and without (Sertoli cell-only syndrome and fertile controls) fibrosis (n = 5, each). Additionally, differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between KS and testis atrophy samples were studied to reveal KS-specific fibrotic genes. DEGs were considered significant when p < 0.01 and log2FC > 2. Next, downstream analyses (GO and KEGG) were performed. Lastly, RNA in situ hybridization was performed to validate the results. The first analysis (fibrotic vs non-fibrotic) resulted in 734 significant DEGs (167 up- and 567 down-regulated). Genes involved in the extracellular structure organization (e.g. VCAM1) were found up-regulated. KEGG analysis showed an up-regulation of genes involved in the TGF-β pathway. The KS vs testis atrophy analysis resulted in 539 significant DEGs (59 up- and 480 down-regulated). Chronic inflammatory response genes were found up-regulated. The overlap of X-linked DEGs from the two analyses revealed three genes: matrix-remodelling associated 5 (MXRA5), doublecortin (DCX) and variable charge X-Linked 3B (VCX3B). RNA in situ hybridization showed an overexpression of VCAM1, MXRA5 and DCX within the fibrotic group compared with the non-fibrotic group. To summarize, this study revealed DEGs between fibrotic and non-fibrotic testis tissue, including VCAM1. In addition, X-linked fibrotic genes were revealed, e.g. MXRA5, DCX and VCX3B. Their potential role in KS-related testicular fibrosis needs further study.
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Sreenivasan VKA, Henck J, Spielmann M. Single-cell sequencing: promises and challenges for human genetics. MED GENET-BERLIN 2022; 34:261-273. [PMID: 38836091 PMCID: PMC11006387 DOI: 10.1515/medgen-2022-2156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2024]
Abstract
Over the last decade, single-cell sequencing has transformed many fields. It has enabled the unbiased molecular phenotyping of even whole organisms with unprecedented cellular resolution. In the field of human genetics, where the phenotypic consequences of genetic and epigenetic alterations are of central concern, this transformative technology promises to functionally annotate every region in the human genome and all possible variants within them at a massive scale. In this review aimed at the clinicians in human genetics, we describe the current status of the field of single-cell sequencing and its role for human genetics, including how the technology works as well as how it is being applied to characterize and monitor diseases, to develop human cell atlases, and to annotate the genome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Varun K A Sreenivasan
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, University of Lübeck and Kiel University, 23562 Lübeck, 24105 Kiel, Germany
| | - Jana Henck
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, University of Lübeck and Kiel University, 23562 Lübeck, 24105 Kiel, Germany
- Human Molecular Genomics Group, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, D-14195 Berlin, Germany
| | - Malte Spielmann
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, University of Lübeck and Kiel University, 23562 Lübeck, 24105 Kiel, Germany
- Human Molecular Genomics Group, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, D-14195 Berlin, Germany
- DZHK e. V. (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Hamburg/Kiel/Lübeck, 23538 Lübeck, Germany
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25
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Houston BJ, Lopes AM, Laan M, Nagirnaja L, O'Connor AE, Merriner DJ, Nguyen J, Punab M, Riera-Escamilla A, Krausz C, Aston KI, Conrad DF, O'Bryan MK. DDB1- and CUL4-associated factor 12-like protein 1 (Dcaf12l1) is not essential for male fertility in mice. Dev Biol 2022; 490:66-72. [PMID: 35850260 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2022.07.006] [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: 03/09/2022] [Revised: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Male infertility is a common condition affecting at least 7% of men worldwide and is often genetic in origin. Using whole exome sequencing, we recently discovered three hemizygous, likely damaging variants in DDB1- and CUL4-associated factor 12-like protein 1 (DCAF12L1) in men with azoospermia. DCAF12L1 is located on the X-chromosome and as identified by single cell sequencing studies, its expression is enriched in human testes and specifically in Sertoli cells and spermatogonia. However, very little is known about the role of DCAF12L1 in spermatogenesis, thus we generated a knockout mouse model to further explore the role of DCAF12L1 in male fertility. Knockout mice were generated using CRISPR/Cas9 technology to remove the entire coding region of Dcaf12l1 and were assessed for fertility over a broad range of ages (2-8 months of age). Despite outstanding genetic evidence in men, loss of DCAF12L1 had no discernible impact on male fertility in mice, as highlighted by breeding trials, histological assessment of the testis and epididymis, daily sperm production and evaluation of sperm motility using computer assisted methods. This disparity is likely due to the parallel evolution, and subsequent divergence, of DCAF12 family members in mice and men or the presence of compounding environmental factors in men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brendan J Houston
- School of BioSciences and Bio21 Institute, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia.
| | - Alexandra M Lopes
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Porto, Portugal; Instituto de Patologia e Imunologia Molecular da Universidade do Porto, Portugal; Genetics of Male Infertility Initiative (GEMINI), USA
| | - Maris Laan
- Genetics of Male Infertility Initiative (GEMINI), USA; Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, Estonia
| | - Liina Nagirnaja
- Genetics of Male Infertility Initiative (GEMINI), USA; Division of Genetics, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Beaverton, OR, USA
| | - Anne E O'Connor
- School of BioSciences and Bio21 Institute, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - D Jo Merriner
- School of BioSciences and Bio21 Institute, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Joseph Nguyen
- School of BioSciences and Bio21 Institute, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Margus Punab
- Genetics of Male Infertility Initiative (GEMINI), USA; Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, Estonia; Andrology Centre, Tartu University Hospital, Tartu, Estonia; Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Antoni Riera-Escamilla
- Andrology Department, Fundació Puigvert, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas Sant Pau (IIB-Sant Pau), Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Csilla Krausz
- Genetics of Male Infertility Initiative (GEMINI), USA; International Male Infertility Genomics Consortium (IMIGC); Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", Centre of Excellence DeNothe, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Kenneth Ivan Aston
- Genetics of Male Infertility Initiative (GEMINI), USA; International Male Infertility Genomics Consortium (IMIGC); Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, School of Medicine, Washington University, St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Donald F Conrad
- Genetics of Male Infertility Initiative (GEMINI), USA; Division of Genetics, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Beaverton, OR, USA; International Male Infertility Genomics Consortium (IMIGC)
| | - Moira K O'Bryan
- School of BioSciences and Bio21 Institute, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia; Genetics of Male Infertility Initiative (GEMINI), USA; International Male Infertility Genomics Consortium (IMIGC)
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26
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Cauchi LM, Houston BJ, Nagirnaja L, O'Connor AE, Merriner DJ, Aston KI, Schlegel PN, Conrad DF, Burke R, O'Bryan MK. Zinc finger RNA binding protein 2 (ZFR2) is not required for male fertility in the mouse. Dev Biol 2022; 489:55-61. [PMID: 35679955 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2022.05.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Revised: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 05/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Thousands of genes are expressed during spermatogenesis and male infertility has a strong genetic component. Within this study, we focus on the role of Zfr2 in male fertility, a gene previously implicated in human male fertility. To date, very little is known about the role of ZFR2 in either humans or mice. To this end, the requirement for ZFR2 in male fertility was assessed using a knockout mouse model. RESULTS Zfr2 was found to be expressed in the testes of both humans and mice. Deletion of Zfr2 was achieved via removal of exon 2 using CRISPR-Cas9 methods. The absence of Zfr2 did not result in a reduction in any fertility parameters assessed. Knockout males were capable of fostering litter sizes equal to wild type males, and there were no effects of Zfr2 knockout on sperm number or motility. We note Zfr2 knockout females were also fertile. CONCLUSIONS The absence of Zfr2 alone is not sufficient to cause a reduction in male fertility in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lachlan M Cauchi
- School of Biological Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Australia; Institute for Veterinary Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Justus-Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Brendan J Houston
- The School of BioSciences and Bio21 Institute, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia.
| | - Liina Nagirnaja
- Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Oregon, USA
| | - Anne E O'Connor
- The School of BioSciences and Bio21 Institute, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - D Jo Merriner
- The School of BioSciences and Bio21 Institute, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - Kenneth I Aston
- Andrology and IVF Laboratory, Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Utah, USA
| | | | - Don F Conrad
- Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Oregon, USA
| | - Richard Burke
- School of Biological Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Moira K O'Bryan
- The School of BioSciences and Bio21 Institute, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
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27
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Tang D, Li K, Lv M, Xu C, Geng H, Wang C, Cheng H, He X, Zhang Y, Cao Y. Altered mRNAs Profiles in the Testis of Patients With "Secondary Idiopathic Non-Obstructive Azoospermia". Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:824596. [PMID: 35646930 PMCID: PMC9133692 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.824596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) is the most severe form of male infertility. Currently, known causative factors, including congenital and several acquired causes only account for approximately 30% of NOA cases. The causes for NOA remain unclear for most patients, which is known as idiopathic (iNOA). However, whether iNOA is due to congenital defects or acquired abnormalities is a confusing problem due to the delayed diagnosis of this frustrating condition until the childbearing age. Therefore, we collected several cases with "secondary idiopathic NOA" and detected the altered mRNAs profiles in the testicular tissues to explore the possible molecular basis. Materials and Methods: In this study, several patients with a previous history of natural pregnancy with their partners before, who were diagnosed as iNOA based on the outcomes of routine semen analysis and multiple testis biopsies now, were enrolled. Some known risk factors and genetic factors were excluded. Therefore, we defined this phenotype as "secondary idiopathic NOA." To explore the possible molecular basis of this disease, we performed mRNA expression analysis through next-generation sequencing on three cases and other three patients with obstructive azoospermia as controls. Bioinformatics analyses were conducted to assess differentially expressed genes and possible biological mechanisms involved in the disease. Quantitative real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction assays were applied to confirm the results in several selected mRNAs involved in stages and metabolism of Sertoli cells. Results: A series of mRNAs were found to be altered in testicular tissues between patients with "secondary idiopathic NOA" and controls, including 6,028 downregulated and 3,402 upregulated mRNAs. Gene Ontology (GO) analysis and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genome (KEGG) analyses revealed a range of GO and KEGG terms, such as cellular process involved in reproduction, protein degradation, and absorption. Conclusion: The present study introduces a novel classification called "secondary idiopathic NOA." We provide a global view of the altered mRNAs involved in spermatogenetic failure in these cases. Regarding the limited samples, further studies should be taken to understand this new classification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongdong Tang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract (Anhui Medical University), Hefei, China
- Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People’s Republic of China, Hefei, China
| | - Kuokuo Li
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract (Anhui Medical University), Hefei, China
- Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People’s Republic of China, Hefei, China
| | - Mingrong Lv
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract (Anhui Medical University), Hefei, China
- Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People’s Republic of China, Hefei, China
| | - Chuan Xu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Hao Geng
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Chao Wang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Huiru Cheng
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract (Anhui Medical University), Hefei, China
- Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People’s Republic of China, Hefei, China
| | - Xiaojin He
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract (Anhui Medical University), Hefei, China
- Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People’s Republic of China, Hefei, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, WuHan, China
| | - Yunxia Cao
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract (Anhui Medical University), Hefei, China
- Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People’s Republic of China, Hefei, China
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28
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Leydig Cells in Patients with Non-Obstructive Azoospermia: Do They Really Proliferate? Life (Basel) 2021; 11:life11111266. [PMID: 34833142 PMCID: PMC8624241 DOI: 10.3390/life11111266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Revised: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) is a form of male infertility caused by disorders of the testicular parenchyma and impaired spermatogenesis. This study aimed to investigate the nature of Leydig cell changes in patients with NOA, especially whether their actual proliferation occurred. Methods: 48 testicular biopsies from infertile patients with NOA and 24 testicular biopsies originating from azoospermic patients suffering from obstructive azoospermia (OA) were included in the study. Leydig cells and their possible proliferative activity were analysed by immunohistochemistry and morphometry (stereology). Results: Unlike in the OA group, Leydig cells in NOA patients were sometimes organised into larger clusters and displayed an abundant cytoplasm/hypertrophy. Moreover, significant fibrosis of the interstitial compartment was demonstrated in some NOA samples, often accompanied by inflammatory cells. Stereological analysis showed no increase/proliferation of Leydig cells; on the contrary, these cells decreased in number in the NOA group. Conclusions: The decrease in the number of Leydig cells can be explained by previous inflammatory changes within the testicular interstitium and consequent interstitial fibrosis. The interstitial fibrosis might have a deteriorating effect on Leydig cells.
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