1
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Du L, Chen W, Zhang D, Cui Y, He Z. The functions and mechanisms of piRNAs in mediating mammalian spermatogenesis and their applications in reproductive medicine. Cell Mol Life Sci 2024; 81:379. [PMID: 39222270 PMCID: PMC11369131 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-024-05399-6] [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: 01/09/2024] [Revised: 07/10/2024] [Accepted: 08/06/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
As the most abundant small RNAs, piwi-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) have been identified as a new class of non-coding RNAs with 24-32 nucleotides in length, and they are expressed at high levels in male germ cells. PiRNAs have been implicated in the regulation of several biological processes, including cell differentiation, development, and male reproduction. In this review, we focused on the functions and molecular mechanisms of piRNAs in controlling spermatogenesis, including genome stability, regulation of gene expression, and male germ cell development. The piRNA pathways include two major pathways, namely the pre-pachytene piRNA pathway and the pachytene piRNA pathway. In the pre-pachytene stage, piRNAs are involved in chromosome remodeling and gene expression regulation to maintain genome stability by inhibiting transposon activity. In the pachytene stage, piRNAs mediate the development of male germ cells via regulating gene expression by binding to mRNA and RNA cleavage. We further discussed the correlations between the abnormalities of piRNAs and male infertility and the prospective of piRNAs' applications in reproductive medicine and future studies. This review provides novel insights into mechanisms underlying mammalian spermatogenesis and offers new targets for diagnosing and treating male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Du
- The Key Laboratory of Model Animals and Stem Cell Biology in Hunan Province, The Engineering Research Center of Reproduction and Translational Medicine of Hunan Province, Hunan Normal University School of Medicine, The Manufacture-Based Learning and Research Demonstration Center for Human Reproductive Health New Technology of Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410013, China
| | - Wei Chen
- The Key Laboratory of Model Animals and Stem Cell Biology in Hunan Province, The Engineering Research Center of Reproduction and Translational Medicine of Hunan Province, Hunan Normal University School of Medicine, The Manufacture-Based Learning and Research Demonstration Center for Human Reproductive Health New Technology of Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410013, China
| | - Dong Zhang
- The Key Laboratory of Model Animals and Stem Cell Biology in Hunan Province, The Engineering Research Center of Reproduction and Translational Medicine of Hunan Province, Hunan Normal University School of Medicine, The Manufacture-Based Learning and Research Demonstration Center for Human Reproductive Health New Technology of Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410013, China
| | - Yinghong Cui
- The Key Laboratory of Model Animals and Stem Cell Biology in Hunan Province, The Engineering Research Center of Reproduction and Translational Medicine of Hunan Province, Hunan Normal University School of Medicine, The Manufacture-Based Learning and Research Demonstration Center for Human Reproductive Health New Technology of Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410013, China
| | - Zuping He
- The Key Laboratory of Model Animals and Stem Cell Biology in Hunan Province, The Engineering Research Center of Reproduction and Translational Medicine of Hunan Province, Hunan Normal University School of Medicine, The Manufacture-Based Learning and Research Demonstration Center for Human Reproductive Health New Technology of Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410013, China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China.
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2
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Li M, Yang Y, Wang P, Que W, Zhong L, Cai Z, Liu Y, Yang L, Liu Y. Transcriptome dynamics of the BHK21 cell line in response to human coronavirus OC43 infection. Microbiol Res 2024; 285:127750. [PMID: 38761489 DOI: 10.1016/j.micres.2024.127750] [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: 03/19/2024] [Revised: 04/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024]
Abstract
The progress of viral infection involves numerous transcriptional regulatory events. The identification of the newly synthesized transcripts helps us to understand the replication mechanisms and pathogenesis of the virus. Here, we utilized a time-resolved technique called metabolic RNA labeling approach called thiol(SH)-linked alkylation for the metabolic sequencing of RNA (SLAM-seq) to differentially elucidate the levels of steady-state and newly synthesized RNAs of BHK21 cell line in response to human coronavirus OC43 (HCoV-OC43) infection. Our results showed that the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway was significantly enriched with the newly synthesized transcripts of BHK21 cell line in response to HCoV-OC43 infection. Moreover, inhibition of the Wnt pathway promoted viral replication in the early stage of infection, but inhibited it in the later stage of infection. Furthermore, remdesivir inhibits the upregulation of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway induced by early infection with HCoV-OC43. Collectively, our study showed the diverse roles of Wnt/β-catenin pathway at different stages of HCoV-OC43 infection, suggesting a potential target for the antiviral treatment. In addition, although infection with HCoV-OC43 induces cytopathic effects in BHK21 cells, inhibiting apoptosis does not affect the intracellular replication of the virus. Monitoring newly synthesized RNA based on such time-resolved approach is a highly promising method for studying the mechanism of viral infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mianhuan Li
- School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, People's Republic of China; Shenzhen Third People's Hospital, National Clinical Research Centre for Infectious Disease, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518112, People's Republic of China
| | - Yang Yang
- Shenzhen Third People's Hospital, National Clinical Research Centre for Infectious Disease, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518112, People's Republic of China
| | - Pusen Wang
- Shenzhen Third People's Hospital, National Clinical Research Centre for Infectious Disease, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518112, People's Republic of China
| | - Weitao Que
- Shenzhen Third People's Hospital, National Clinical Research Centre for Infectious Disease, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518112, People's Republic of China
| | - Lin Zhong
- Shenzhen Third People's Hospital, National Clinical Research Centre for Infectious Disease, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518112, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhao Cai
- Shenzhen Mindray Bio-Medical Electronics Co.,Ltd, Shenzhen 518057, People's Republic of China
| | - Yang Liu
- Southern University of Science and Technology Hospital, Shenzhen 518055, People's Republic of China
| | - Liang Yang
- School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, People's Republic of China; Shenzhen Third People's Hospital, National Clinical Research Centre for Infectious Disease, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518112, People's Republic of China.
| | - Yingxia Liu
- Shenzhen Third People's Hospital, National Clinical Research Centre for Infectious Disease, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518112, People's Republic of China.
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3
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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 JEM, O'Bryan MK. AXDND1 is required to balance spermatogonial commitment and for sperm tail formation in mice and humans. Cell Death Dis 2024; 15:499. [PMID: 38997255 PMCID: PMC11245616 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-024-06874-5] [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: 03/17/2024] [Revised: 06/20/2024] [Accepted: 06/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024]
Abstract
Dynein complexes are large, multi-unit assemblies involved in many biological processes via their critical roles in protein transport and axoneme motility. Using next-generation sequencing of infertile men presenting with low or no sperm in their ejaculates, we identified damaging variants in the dynein-related gene AXDND1. We thus hypothesised that AXDND1 is a critical regulator of male fertility. To test this hypothesis, we produced a knockout mouse model. Axdnd1-/- males were sterile at all ages but presented with an evolving testis phenotype wherein they could undergo one round of histologically replete spermatogenesis followed by a rapid depletion of the seminiferous epithelium. Marker experiments identified a role for AXDND1 in maintaining the balance between differentiation-committed and self-renewing spermatogonial populations, resulting in disproportionate production of differentiating cells in the absence of AXDND1 and increased sperm production during initial spermatogenic waves. Moreover, long-term spermatogonial maintenance in the Axdnd1 knockout was compromised, ultimately leading to catastrophic germ cell loss, destruction of blood-testis barrier integrity and immune cell infiltration. In addition, 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 these data identify AXDND1 as an atypical dynein complex-related protein with a role in protein/vesicle transport of relevance to spermatogonial function and sperm tail formation in mice and humans. This study underscores the importance of studying the consequences of gene loss-of-function on both the establishment and maintenance of male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brendan J Houston
- School of BioSciences and Bio21 Molecular Sciences and Biotechnology Institute, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia.
| | - Joseph Nguyen
- School of BioSciences and Bio21 Molecular Sciences and Biotechnology Institute, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - D Jo Merriner
- School of BioSciences and Bio21 Molecular Sciences and Biotechnology Institute, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Anne E O'Connor
- School of BioSciences and Bio21 Molecular Sciences and Biotechnology Institute, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Alexandra M Lopes
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Centro de Genética Preditiva e Preventiva, Instituto de Biologia Molecular e Celular, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Liina Nagirnaja
- Division of Genetics, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Beaverton, OR, USA
- Genetics of Male Infertility Initiative (GEMINI) Consortium, Beaverton, OR, USA
| | - Corinna Friedrich
- Centre of Medical Genetics, Institute of Reproductive Genetics, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Sabine Kliesch
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital Münster, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Frank Tüttelmann
- Centre of Medical Genetics, Institute of Reproductive Genetics, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
- International Male Infertility Genomics Consortium (IMIGC), Newcastle-upon-Tyne, UK
| | - Kenneth I Aston
- Genetics of Male Infertility Initiative (GEMINI) Consortium, Beaverton, OR, USA
- International Male Infertility Genomics Consortium (IMIGC), Newcastle-upon-Tyne, UK
- Department of Surgery (Urology), University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Donald F Conrad
- Division of Genetics, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Beaverton, OR, USA
- Genetics of Male Infertility Initiative (GEMINI) Consortium, Beaverton, OR, USA
- International Male Infertility Genomics Consortium (IMIGC), Newcastle-upon-Tyne, UK
| | - Robin M Hobbs
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Jessica E M Dunleavy
- School of BioSciences and Bio21 Molecular Sciences and Biotechnology Institute, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Moira K O'Bryan
- School of BioSciences and Bio21 Molecular Sciences and Biotechnology Institute, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia.
- Genetics of Male Infertility Initiative (GEMINI) Consortium, Beaverton, OR, USA.
- International Male Infertility Genomics Consortium (IMIGC), Newcastle-upon-Tyne, UK.
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4
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Kitamura Y, Namekawa SH. Epigenetic priming in the male germline. Curr Opin Genet Dev 2024; 86:102190. [PMID: 38608568 PMCID: PMC11162906 DOI: 10.1016/j.gde.2024.102190] [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: 12/13/2023] [Revised: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024]
Abstract
Epigenetic priming presets chromatin states that allow the rapid induction of gene expression programs in response to differentiation cues. In the germline, it provides the blueprint for sexually dimorphic unidirectional differentiation. In this review, we focus on epigenetic priming in the mammalian male germline and discuss how cellular memories are regulated and inherited to the next generation. During spermatogenesis, epigenetic priming predetermines cellular memories that ensure the lifelong maintenance of spermatogonial stem cells and their subsequent commitment to meiosis and to the production of haploid sperm. The paternal chromatin state is also essential for the recovery of totipotency after fertilization and contributes to paternal epigenetic inheritance. Thus, epigenetic priming establishes stable but reversible chromatin states during spermatogenesis and enables epigenetic inheritance and reprogramming in the next generation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuka Kitamura
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Satoshi H Namekawa
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA.
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5
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Wen Y, Zhou S, Gui Y, Li Z, Yin L, Xu W, Feng S, Ma X, Gan S, Xiong M, Dong J, Cheng K, Wang X, Yuan S. hnRNPU is required for spermatogonial stem cell pool establishment in mice. Cell Rep 2024; 43:114113. [PMID: 38625792 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2024.114113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Revised: 01/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/18/2024] Open
Abstract
The continuous regeneration of spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) underpins spermatogenesis and lifelong male fertility, but the developmental origins of the SSC pool remain unclear. Here, we document that hnRNPU is essential for establishing the SSC pool. In male mice, conditional loss of hnRNPU in prospermatogonia (ProSG) arrests spermatogenesis and results in sterility. hnRNPU-deficient ProSG fails to differentiate and migrate to the basement membrane to establish SSC pool in infancy. Moreover, hnRNPU deletion leads to the accumulation of ProSG and disrupts the process of T1-ProSG to T2-ProSG transition. Single-cell transcriptional analyses reveal that germ cells are in a mitotically quiescent state and lose their unique identity upon hnRNPU depletion. We further show that hnRNPU could bind to Vrk1, Slx4, and Dazl transcripts that have been identified to suffer aberrant alternative splicing in hnRNPU-deficient testes. These observations offer important insights into SSC pool establishment and may have translational implications for male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujiao Wen
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Shumin Zhou
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Yiqian Gui
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Zeqing Li
- School of Nuclear Technology and Chemistry & Biology, Hubei University of Science and Technology, Xianning 437100, China
| | - Lisha Yin
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Wenchao Xu
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Shenglei Feng
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; Laboratory of Animal Center, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Xixiang Ma
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; Laboratory of Animal Center, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Shiming Gan
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Mengneng Xiong
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Juan Dong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Keren Cheng
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Yiwu 322000, China
| | - Xiaoli Wang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Shuiqiao Yuan
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; Laboratory of Animal Center, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; Shenzhen Huazhong University of Science and Technology Research Institute, Shenzhen 518057, China.
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6
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Yi S, Wang W, Su L, Meng L, Li Y, Tan C, Liu Q, Zhang H, Fan L, Lu G, Hu L, Du J, Lin G, Tan YQ, Tu C, Zhang Q. Deleterious variants in X-linked RHOXF1 cause male infertility with oligo- and azoospermia. Mol Hum Reprod 2024; 30:gaae002. [PMID: 38258527 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaae002] [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: 06/08/2023] [Revised: 12/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Oligozoospermia and azoospermia are two common phenotypes of male infertility characterized by massive sperm defects owing to failure of spermatogenesis. The deleterious impact of candidate variants with male infertility is to be explored. In our study, we identified three hemizygous missense variants (c.388G>A: p.V130M, c.272C>T: p.A91V, and c.467C>T: p.A156V) and one hemizygous nonsense variant (c.478C>T: p.R160X) in the Rhox homeobox family member 1 gene (RHOXF1) in four unrelated cases from a cohort of 1201 infertile Chinese men with oligo- and azoospermia using whole-exome sequencing and Sanger sequencing. RHOXF1 was absent in the testicular biopsy of one patient (c.388G>A: p.V130M) whose histological analysis showed a phenotype of Sertoli cell-only syndrome. In vitro experiments indicated that RHOXF1 mutations significantly reduced the content of RHOXF1 protein in HEK293T cells. Specifically, the p.V130M, p.A156V, and p.R160X mutants of RHOXF1 also led to increased RHOXF1 accumulation in cytoplasmic particles. Luciferase assays revealed that p.V130M and p.R160X mutants may disrupt downstream spermatogenesis by perturbing the regulation of doublesex and mab-3 related transcription factor 1 (DMRT1) promoter activity. Furthermore, ICSI treatment could be beneficial in the context of oligozoospermia caused by RHOXF1 mutations. In conclusion, our findings collectively identified mutated RHOXF1 to be a disease-causing X-linked gene in human oligo- and azoospermia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sibing Yi
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Weili Wang
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive 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
- Center for Biology Post-Doctoral studies, College of Life Science, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, China
| | - Lilan Su
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Lanlan Meng
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive 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
| | - Yong Li
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Chen Tan
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Qiang Liu
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Huan Zhang
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive 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
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive 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
- Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproduction Engineering, Ministry of Health, Changsha, China
| | - Guangxiu Lu
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive 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
- Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproduction Engineering, Ministry of Health, Changsha, China
| | - Liang Hu
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive 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
- Center for Biology Post-Doctoral studies, College of Life Science, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, China
- Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproduction Engineering, Ministry of Health, Changsha, China
| | - Juan Du
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive 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
- Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproduction Engineering, Ministry of Health, Changsha, China
| | - Ge Lin
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive 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
- Center for Biology Post-Doctoral studies, College of Life Science, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, China
- Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproduction Engineering, Ministry of Health, Changsha, China
| | - Yue-Qiu Tan
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive 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
- Center for Biology Post-Doctoral studies, College of Life Science, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, China
- Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproduction Engineering, Ministry of Health, Changsha, China
| | - Chaofeng Tu
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive 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
| | - Qianjun Zhang
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive 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
- Center for Biology Post-Doctoral studies, College of Life Science, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, China
- Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproduction Engineering, Ministry of Health, Changsha, China
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7
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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 JEM, 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] [Key Words] [Grants] [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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Affiliation(s)
- Brendan J. Houston
- School of BioSciences, Bio21 Institute, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - Joseph Nguyen
- School of BioSciences, Bio21 Institute, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - D. Jo Merriner
- School of BioSciences, Bio21 Institute, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - Anne E. O’Connor
- School of BioSciences, Bio21 Institute, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - Alexandra M. Lopes
- i3S – Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
- CGPP-IBMC – Centro de Genética Preditiva e Preventiva, Instituto de Biologia Molecular e Celular, Universidade do Porto, Portugal
| | - Liina Nagirnaja
- Division of Genetics, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Beaverton, USA
- Genetics of Male Infertility Initiative (GEMINI) consortium
| | - Corinna Friedrich
- Institute of Reproductive Genetics, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Sabine Kliesch
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital Münster, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Frank Tüttelmann
- Institute of Reproductive Genetics, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
- International Male Infertility Genomics Consortium (IMIGC)
| | - Kenneth I. Aston
- Genetics of Male Infertility Initiative (GEMINI) consortium
- International Male Infertility Genomics Consortium (IMIGC)
- Department of Surgery (Urology), University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Donald F. Conrad
- Division of Genetics, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Beaverton, USA
- Genetics of Male Infertility Initiative (GEMINI) consortium
- International Male Infertility Genomics Consortium (IMIGC)
| | - Robin M. Hobbs
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Jessica EM Dunleavy
- School of BioSciences, Bio21 Institute, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - Moira K. O’Bryan
- School of BioSciences, Bio21 Institute, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
- Genetics of Male Infertility Initiative (GEMINI) consortium
- International Male Infertility Genomics Consortium (IMIGC)
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8
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Oh Y, Kasu M, Bottoms CJ, Douglas JC, Sekulovski N, Hayashi K, MacLean II JA. Rhox8 homeobox gene ablation leads to rete testis abnormality and male subfertility in mice†. Biol Reprod 2023; 109:520-532. [PMID: 37471646 PMCID: PMC10577278 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioad077] [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: 02/23/2023] [Revised: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/15/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The reproductive homeobox X-linked (Rhox) genes encode transcription factors that are expressed selectively in reproductive tissues including the testis, epididymis, ovary, and placenta. While many Rhox genes are expressed in germ cells in the mouse testis, only Rhox8 is expressed exclusively in the Sertoli cells during embryonic and postnatal development, suggesting a possible role of Rhox8 in embryonic gonad development. Previously, Sertoli cell-specific knockdown of RHOX8 resulted in male subfertility due to germ cell defects. However, this knockdown model was limited in examining the functions of Rhox8 as RHOX8 knockdown occurred only postnatally, and there was still residual RHOX8 in the testis. In this study, we generated new Rhox8 knockout (KO) mice using the CRISPR/Cas9 system. Sex determination and fetal testis development were apparently normal in mutant mice. Fertility analysis showed a low fecundity in Rhox8 KO adult males, with disrupted spermatogenic cycles, increased germ cell apoptosis, and reduced sperm count and motility. Interestingly, Rhox8 KO testes showed an increase in testis size with dilated seminiferous tubules and rete testis, which might be affected by efferent duct (ED) Rhox8 ablation dysregulating the expression of metabolism and transport genes in the EDs. Taken together, the data presented in this study suggest that Rhox8 in the Sertoli cells is not essential for sex determination and embryonic testis differentiation but has an important role in complete spermatogenesis and optimal male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yeongseok Oh
- Center for Reproductive Biology, School of Molecular Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA
- Department of Physiology, Southern Illinois School of Medicine, Carbondale, IL, USA
| | - Maho Kasu
- Center for Reproductive Biology, School of Molecular Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA
| | - Constence J Bottoms
- Center for Reproductive Biology, School of Molecular Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA
| | - Jenna C Douglas
- Center for Reproductive Biology, School of Molecular Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA
| | - Nikola Sekulovski
- Department of Physiology, Southern Illinois School of Medicine, Carbondale, IL, USA
| | - Kanako Hayashi
- Center for Reproductive Biology, School of Molecular Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA
- Department of Physiology, Southern Illinois School of Medicine, Carbondale, IL, USA
| | - James A MacLean II
- Center for Reproductive Biology, School of Molecular Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA
- Department of Physiology, Southern Illinois School of Medicine, Carbondale, IL, USA
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9
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Gura MA, Bartholomew MA, Abt KM, Relovská S, Seymour KA, Freiman RN. Transcription and chromatin regulation by TAF4b during cellular quiescence of developing prospermatogonia. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1270408. [PMID: 37900284 PMCID: PMC10600471 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1270408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Prospermatogonia (ProSpg) link the embryonic development of male primordial germ cells to the healthy establishment of postnatal spermatogonia and spermatogonial stem cells. While these spermatogenic precursor cells undergo the characteristic transitions of cycling and quiescence, the transcriptional events underlying these developmental hallmarks remain unknown. Here, we investigated the expression and function of TBP-associated factor 4b (Taf4b) in the timely development of quiescent mouse ProSpg using an integration of gene expression profiling and chromatin mapping. We find that Taf4b mRNA expression is elevated during the transition of mitotic-to-quiescent ProSpg and Taf4b-deficient ProSpg are delayed in their entry into quiescence. Gene ontology, protein network analysis, and chromatin mapping demonstrate that TAF4b is a direct and indirect regulator of chromatin and cell cycle-related gene expression programs during ProSpg quiescence. Further validation of these cell cycle mRNA changes due to the loss of TAF4b was accomplished via immunostaining for proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA). Together, these data indicate that TAF4b is a key transcriptional regulator of the chromatin and quiescent state of the developing mammalian spermatogenic precursor lineage.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Soňa Relovská
- Department of Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, and Biochemistry, Brown University, Providence, RI, United States
| | - Kimberly A. Seymour
- Department of Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, and Biochemistry, Brown University, Providence, RI, United States
| | - Richard N. Freiman
- MCB Graduate Program, Providence, RI, United States
- Department of Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, and Biochemistry, Brown University, Providence, RI, United States
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10
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Le Beulze M, Daubech C, Balde-Camara A, Ghieh F, Vialard F. Mammal Reproductive Homeobox (Rhox) Genes: An Update of Their Involvement in Reproduction and Development. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:1685. [PMID: 37761825 PMCID: PMC10531175 DOI: 10.3390/genes14091685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The reproductive homeobox on the X chromosome (RHOX) genes were first identified in the mouse during the 1990s and have a crucial role in reproduction. In various transcription factors with a key regulatory role, the homeobox sequence encodes a "homeodomain" DNA-binding motif. In the mouse, there are three clusters of Rhox genes (α, β, and γ) on the X chromosome. Each cluster shows temporal and/or quantitative collinearity, which regulates the progression of the embryonic development process. Although the RHOX family is conserved in mammals, the interspecies differences in the number of RHOX genes and pseudogenes testifies to a rich evolutionary history with several relatively recent events. In the mouse, Rhox genes are mainly expressed in reproductive tissues, and several have a role in the differentiation of primordial germ cells (Rhox1, Rhox6, and Rhox10) and in spermatogenesis (Rhox1, Rhox8, and Rhox13). Despite the lack of detailed data on human RHOX, these genes appear to be involved in the formation of germ cells because they are predominantly expressed during the early (RHOXF1) and late (RHOXF2/F2B) stages of germ cell development. Furthermore, the few variants identified to date are thought to induce or predispose to impaired spermatogenesis and severe oligozoospermia or azoospermia. In the future, research on the pathophysiology of the human RHOX genes is likely to confirm the essential role of this family in the reproductive process and might help us to better understand the various causes of infertility and characterize the associated human phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Morgane Le Beulze
- Equipe RHuMA, UMR-BREED, UFR Simone Veil Santé, F-78180 Montigny-le-Bretonneux, France; (M.L.B.); (C.D.); (A.B.-C.); (F.G.)
- UFR des Sciences de la Santé Simone Veil, Université de Versailles-Saint Quentin en Yvelines—Université Paris Saclay (UVSQ), INRAE, BREED, F-78350 Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Cécile Daubech
- Equipe RHuMA, UMR-BREED, UFR Simone Veil Santé, F-78180 Montigny-le-Bretonneux, France; (M.L.B.); (C.D.); (A.B.-C.); (F.G.)
- UFR des Sciences de la Santé Simone Veil, Université de Versailles-Saint Quentin en Yvelines—Université Paris Saclay (UVSQ), INRAE, BREED, F-78350 Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Aissatu Balde-Camara
- Equipe RHuMA, UMR-BREED, UFR Simone Veil Santé, F-78180 Montigny-le-Bretonneux, France; (M.L.B.); (C.D.); (A.B.-C.); (F.G.)
- UFR des Sciences de la Santé Simone Veil, Université de Versailles-Saint Quentin en Yvelines—Université Paris Saclay (UVSQ), INRAE, BREED, F-78350 Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Farah Ghieh
- Equipe RHuMA, UMR-BREED, UFR Simone Veil Santé, F-78180 Montigny-le-Bretonneux, France; (M.L.B.); (C.D.); (A.B.-C.); (F.G.)
- UFR des Sciences de la Santé Simone Veil, Université de Versailles-Saint Quentin en Yvelines—Université Paris Saclay (UVSQ), INRAE, BREED, F-78350 Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - François Vialard
- Equipe RHuMA, UMR-BREED, UFR Simone Veil Santé, F-78180 Montigny-le-Bretonneux, France; (M.L.B.); (C.D.); (A.B.-C.); (F.G.)
- UFR des Sciences de la Santé Simone Veil, Université de Versailles-Saint Quentin en Yvelines—Université Paris Saclay (UVSQ), INRAE, BREED, F-78350 Jouy-en-Josas, France
- Département de Génétique, CHI de Poissy St. Germain en Laye, F-78300 Poissy, France
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11
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Tan K, Wilkinson MF. Developmental regulators moonlighting as transposons defense factors. Andrology 2023; 11:891-903. [PMID: 36895139 PMCID: PMC11162177 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13427] [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: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The germline perpetuates genetic information across generations. To maintain the integrity of the germline, transposable elements in the genome must be silenced, as these mobile elements would otherwise engender widespread mutations passed on to subsequent generations. There are several well-established mechanisms that are dedicated to providing defense against transposable elements, including DNA methylation, RNA interference, and the PIWI-interacting RNA pathway. OBJECTIVES Recently, several studies have provided evidence that transposon defense is not only provided by factors dedicated to this purpose but also factors with other roles, including in germline development. Many of these are transcription factors. Our objective is to summarize what is known about these "bi-functional" transcriptional regulators. MATERIALS AND METHODS Literature search. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION We summarize the evidence that six transcriptional regulators-GLIS3, MYBL1, RB1, RHOX10, SETDB1, and ZBTB16-are both developmental regulators and transposable element-defense factors. These factors act at different stages of germ cell development, including in pro-spermatogonia, spermatogonial stem cells, and spermatocytes. Collectively, the data suggest a model in which specific key transcriptional regulators have acquired multiple functions over evolutionary time to influence developmental decisions and safeguard transgenerational genetic information. It remains to be determined whether their developmental roles were primordial and their transposon defense roles were co-opted, or vice versa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kun Tan
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Miles F. Wilkinson
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Institute of Genomic Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
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12
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Zhang MF, Wan SC, Chen WB, Yang DH, Liu WQ, Li BL, Aierken A, Du XM, Li YX, Wu WP, Yang XC, Wei YD, Li N, Peng S, Li XL, Li GP, Hua JL. Transcription factor Dmrt1 triggers the SPRY1-NF-κB pathway to maintain testicular immune homeostasis and male fertility. Zool Res 2023; 44:505-521. [PMID: 37070575 PMCID: PMC10236308 DOI: 10.24272/j.issn.2095-8137.2022.440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2023] [Indexed: 04/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Bacterial or viral infections, such as Brucella, mumps virus, herpes simplex virus, and Zika virus, destroy immune homeostasis of the testes, leading to spermatogenesis disorder and infertility. Of note, recent research shows that SARS-CoV-2 can infect male gonads and destroy Sertoli and Leydig cells, leading to male reproductive dysfunction. Due to the many side effects associated with antibiotic therapy, finding alternative treatments for inflammatory injury remains critical. Here, we found that Dmrt1 plays an important role in regulating testicular immune homeostasis. Knockdown of Dmrt1 in male mice inhibited spermatogenesis with a broad inflammatory response in seminiferous tubules and led to the loss of spermatogenic epithelial cells. Chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing (ChIP-seq) and RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) revealed that Dmrt1 positively regulated the expression of Spry1, an inhibitory protein of the receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) signaling pathway. Furthermore, immunoprecipitation-mass spectrometry (IP-MS) and co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP) analysis indicated that SPRY1 binds to nuclear factor kappa B1 (NF-κB1) to prevent nuclear translocation of p65, inhibit activation of NF-κB signaling, prevent excessive inflammatory reaction in the testis, and protect the integrity of the blood-testis barrier. In view of this newly identified Dmrt1- Spry1-NF-κB axis mechanism in the regulation of testicular immune homeostasis, our study opens new avenues for the prevention and treatment of male reproductive diseases in humans and livestock.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng-Fei Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Shi-Cheng Wan
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Wen-Bo Chen
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Dong-Hui Yang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Wen-Qing Liu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam Research Institute Reproduction and Development, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam 1105AZ, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Ba-Lun Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Aili Aierken
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Xiao-Min Du
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Yun-Xiang Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Wen-Ping Wu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Xin-Chun Yang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Yu-Dong Wei
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Na Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Sha Peng
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Xue-Ling Li
- Key Laboratory for Mammalian Reproductive Biology and Biotechnology, Ministry of Education, Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia 010021, China
| | - Guang-Peng Li
- Key Laboratory for Mammalian Reproductive Biology and Biotechnology, Ministry of Education, Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia 010021, China
| | - Jin-Lian Hua
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
- Key Laboratory of Livestock Biology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China. E-mail:
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13
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Sasaki K, Sangrithi M. Developmental origins of mammalian spermatogonial stem cells: New perspectives on epigenetic regulation and sex chromosome function. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2023:111949. [PMID: 37201564 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2023.111949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Revised: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Male and female germ cells undergo genome-wide reprogramming during their development, and execute sex-specific programs to complete meiosis and successfully generate healthy gametes. While sexually dimorphic germ cell development is fundamental, similarities and differences exist in the basic processes governing normal gametogenesis. At the simplest level, male gamete generation in mammals is centred on the activity of spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs), and an equivalent cell state is not present in females. Maintaining this unique SSC epigenetic state, while keeping to germ cell-intrinsic developmental programs, poses challenges for the correct completion of spermatogenesis. In this review, we highlight the origins of spermatogonia, comparing and contrasting them with female germline development to emphasize specific developmental processes that are required for their function as germline stem cells. We identify gaps in our current knowledge about human SSCs and further discuss the impact of the unique regulation of the sex chromosomes during spermatogenesis, and the roles of X-linked genes in SSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kotaro Sasaki
- Biomedical Sciences, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, United States.
| | - Mahesh Sangrithi
- King's College London, Centre for Gene Therapy and Regenerative Medicine, 28th Floor, Tower Wing, Guy's Hospital, Great Maze Pond, London, SE1 9RT, UK.
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14
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Tan K, Wilkinson MF. Regulation of both transcription and RNA turnover contribute to germline specification. Nucleic Acids Res 2022; 50:7310-7325. [PMID: 35776114 PMCID: PMC9303369 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkac542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Revised: 05/29/2022] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The nuanced mechanisms driving primordial germ cells (PGC) specification remain incompletely understood since genome-wide transcriptional regulation in developing PGCs has previously only been defined indirectly. Here, using SLAMseq analysis, we determined genome-wide transcription rates during the differentiation of embryonic stem cells (ESCs) to form epiblast-like (EpiLC) cells and ultimately PGC-like cells (PGCLCs). This revealed thousands of genes undergoing bursts of transcriptional induction and rapid shut-off not detectable by RNAseq analysis. Our SLAMseq datasets also allowed us to infer RNA turnover rates, which revealed thousands of mRNAs stabilized and destabilized during PGCLC specification. mRNAs tend to be unstable in ESCs and then are progressively stabilized as they differentiate. For some classes of genes, mRNA turnover regulation collaborates with transcriptional regulation, but these processes oppose each other in a surprisingly high frequency of genes. To test whether regulated mRNA turnover has a physiological role in PGC development, we examined three genes that we found were regulated by RNA turnover: Sox2, Klf2 and Ccne1. Circumvention of their regulated RNA turnover severely impaired the ESC-to-EpiLC and EpiLC-to-PGCLC transitions. Our study demonstrates the functional importance of regulated RNA stability in germline development and provides a roadmap of transcriptional and post-transcriptional regulation during germline specification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kun Tan
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Miles F Wilkinson
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
- Institute of Genomic Medicine (IGM), University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
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15
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GLIS1-3: Links to Primary Cilium, Reprogramming, Stem Cell Renewal, and Disease. Cells 2022; 11:cells11111833. [PMID: 35681527 PMCID: PMC9180737 DOI: 10.3390/cells11111833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2022] [Revised: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
The GLI-Similar 1-3 (GLIS1-3) genes, in addition to encoding GLIS1-3 Krüppel-like zinc finger transcription factors, also generate circular GLIS (circGLIS) RNAs. GLIS1-3 regulate gene transcription by binding to GLIS binding sites in target genes, whereas circGLIS RNAs largely act as miRNA sponges. GLIS1-3 play a critical role in the regulation of many biological processes and have been implicated in various pathologies. GLIS protein activities appear to be regulated by primary cilium-dependent and -independent signaling pathways that via post-translational modifications may cause changes in the subcellular localization, proteolytic processing, and protein interactions. These modifications can affect the transcriptional activity of GLIS proteins and, consequently, the biological functions they regulate as well as their roles in disease. Recent studies have implicated GLIS1-3 proteins and circGLIS RNAs in the regulation of stemness, self-renewal, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), cell reprogramming, lineage determination, and differentiation. These biological processes are interconnected and play a critical role in embryonic development, tissue homeostasis, and cell plasticity. Dysregulation of these processes are part of many pathologies. This review provides an update on our current knowledge of the roles GLIS proteins and circGLIS RNAs in the control of these biological processes in relation to their regulation of normal physiological functions and disease.
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16
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Zhang K, Xu J, Ding Y, Shen C, Lin M, Dai X, Zhou H, Huang X, Xue B, Zheng B. BMI1 promotes spermatogonia proliferation through epigenetic repression of Ptprm. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2021; 583:169-177. [PMID: 34739857 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2021.10.074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 10/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Spermatogonia are accountable for spermatogenesis and male fertility, but the underlying mechanisms involved in spermatogonia maintenance are not clear. B lymphoma Mo-MLV insertion region 1 (BMI1) is a key component of epigenetic silencers. BMI1 is essential for stem-cell maintenance. Here, we attempted to uncover the role of BMI1 in spermatogonia maintenance using a mouse spermatogonia cell line (GC-1) and Bmi1-knockout (KO) mouse model. We showed that BMI1 promoted the proliferation and inhibited apoptosis of GC-1 cells. Mechanistically, we present in vitro and in vivo evidence to show that BMI1 binds to the promoter region of the Protein tyrosine phosphatase receptor type M (PTPRM) gene, thereby driving chromatin remodeling and gene silencing. Knockdown of Ptprm expression significantly improved spermatogonia proliferation in BMI1-deficient GC-1 cells. Collectively, our data show, for the first time, an epigenetic mechanism involving in BMI1-mediated gene silencing in spermatogonia maintenance, and provide potential targets for the treatment of male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke Zhang
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Jinfu Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yue Ding
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Cong Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Center for Reproduction and Genetics, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, China
| | - Meng Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiuliang Dai
- Center of Clinical Reproductive Medicine, The Affiliated Changzhou Matemity and Child Health Care Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou, China
| | - Hui Zhou
- Human Reproductive and Genetic Center, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
| | - Xiaoyan Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Boxin Xue
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China.
| | - Bo Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Center for Reproduction and Genetics, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, China.
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