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Wang X, Wang JD, Li X, Wang T, Yao J, Deng R, Ma W, Liu S, Zhu Z. Tas2R143 regulates the expression of the Blood-Testis Barrier tight junction protein in TM4 cells through the NF-κB signaling pathway. Theriogenology 2024; 227:120-127. [PMID: 39059123 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2024.07.005] [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: 09/24/2023] [Revised: 07/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/07/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024]
Abstract
Although bitter receptors, known as Tas2Rs, have been identified in the testes and mature sperm, their expression in testicular Sertoli cells (SCs) and their role in recognizing harmful substances to maintain the immune microenvironment remain unknown. To explore their potential function in spermatogenesis, this study utilized TM4 cells and discovered the high expression of the bitter receptor Tas2R143 in the cells. Interestingly, when the Tas2R143 gene was knocked down for 24 and 48 h, there was a significant downregulation (P < 0.05) in the expression of tight junction proteins (occludin and ZO-1) and NF-κB. Additionally, Western blot results demonstrated that the siRNA-133+NF-κB co-treatment group displayed a significant downregulation (P < 0.05) in the expression of occludin and ZO-1 compared to both the siRNA-133 transfection group and the NF-κB inhibitors treatment group. These findings suggest that Tas2R143 likely regulates the expression of occludin and ZO-1 through the NF-κB signaling pathway and provides a theoretical basis for studying the regulatory mechanism of bitter receptors in the reproductive system, aiming to attract attention to the chemical perception mechanism of spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue Wang
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, China; Key Laboratory of Exploration and Innovative Utilization of White Goose Germplasm Resources in the Cold Region of Hei Long Jiang Province, China
| | - Jin Dan Wang
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, China; Key Laboratory of Exploration and Innovative Utilization of White Goose Germplasm Resources in the Cold Region of Hei Long Jiang Province, China
| | - Xin Li
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, China; Key Laboratory of Exploration and Innovative Utilization of White Goose Germplasm Resources in the Cold Region of Hei Long Jiang Province, China
| | - Tianrun Wang
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, China; Key Laboratory of Exploration and Innovative Utilization of White Goose Germplasm Resources in the Cold Region of Hei Long Jiang Province, China
| | - Jiaqi Yao
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, China; Key Laboratory of Exploration and Innovative Utilization of White Goose Germplasm Resources in the Cold Region of Hei Long Jiang Province, China
| | - Ruxue Deng
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, China; Key Laboratory of Exploration and Innovative Utilization of White Goose Germplasm Resources in the Cold Region of Hei Long Jiang Province, China
| | - Wenchang Ma
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, China; Key Laboratory of Exploration and Innovative Utilization of White Goose Germplasm Resources in the Cold Region of Hei Long Jiang Province, China
| | - Shengjun Liu
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, China; Key Laboratory of Exploration and Innovative Utilization of White Goose Germplasm Resources in the Cold Region of Hei Long Jiang Province, China.
| | - Zhanbo Zhu
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, China.
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Farahani H, Darvishvand R, Khademolhosseini A, Erfani N. Unwrapping the immunological alterations in testicular germ cell tumors: From immune homeostasis to malignancy and emerging immunotherapies. Andrology 2024. [PMID: 39253799 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13751] [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: 02/22/2024] [Revised: 08/18/2024] [Accepted: 08/20/2024] [Indexed: 09/11/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Testicular germ cell tumors (TGCTs), derived from primordial germ cells, are rare malignancies with high curative potential. However, the emergence of new evidence indicating that 15% of patients experience tumor progression, leading to death, underscores the need for innovative therapeutics. OBJECTIVES This review aimed to explore the immune status in maintaining testicular health and the immune-related aspects of malignancy. Furthermore, it presents an overview of current data on the use of immunotherapy for TGCT patients. RESULTS DISCUSSION Recent advances in immunology have opened a promising avenue for studying diseases and highlighted its role in treating diseases. While the immunopathological facets of TGCTs are not fully understood, investigations suggest a complex interplay among testis-resident immune cells, testis-specific cells (i.e., Sertoli cells (SCs) and Leydig cells (LCs)), and immune-regulating mediators (e.g., sex hormones) in the normal testicle that foster the testicular immune privilege (TIP). Although TIP plays a crucial role in sperm production, it also makes testis vulnerable to tumor development. In the context of cancer-related inflammation, disruption of TIP leads to an imbalanced immune response, resulting in chronic inflammation that can contribute to testicular tissue dysfunction or loss, potentially aiding in cancer invasion and progression. CONCLUSION Comparing the immune profiles of normal and malignant testes is valuable and may provide insights into different aspects of testicular immunity and immune-based treatment approaches. For patients resistant to chemotherapy and with a poor prognosis, immunotherapy has shown promising results. However, its effectiveness in treating resistant TGCTs or preventing tumor recurrence is still uncertain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hadiseh Farahani
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Shiraz Institute for Cancer Research, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Reza Darvishvand
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Shiraz Institute for Cancer Research, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Aida Khademolhosseini
- Shiraz Institute for Cancer Research, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Nasrollah Erfani
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Shiraz Institute for Cancer Research, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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Jiahong C, Junfeng D, Shuxian L, Tao W, Liyun W, Hongfu W. The role of immune cell death in spermatogenesis and male fertility. J Reprod Immunol 2024; 165:104291. [PMID: 38986230 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2024.104291] [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: 05/28/2024] [Revised: 06/21/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024]
Abstract
The male reproductive system provides a distinctive shield to the immune system, safeguarding germ cells (GCs) from autoimmune harm. The testis in mammals creates a unique immunological setting due to its exceptional immune privilege and potent local innate immunity. which can result from a number of different circumstances, including disorders of the pituitary gland, GC aplasia, and immunological elements. Apoptosis, or programmed cell death (PCD), is essential for mammalian spermatogenesis to maintain and ensure an appropriate number of GCs that correspond with the supporting capability of the Sertoli cells. Apoptosis is substantial in controlling the number of GCs in the testis throughout spermatogenesis, and any dysregulation of this process has been linked to male infertility. There is a number of evidence about the potential of PCD in designing novel therapeutic approaches in the treatment of infertility. A detailed understanding of PCD and the processes that underlie immunological infertility can contribute to the progress in designing strategies to prevent and treat male infertility. This review will provide a summary of the role of immune cell death in male reproduction and infertility and describe the therapeutic strategies and agents for treatment based on immune cell death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Jiahong
- Dongguan Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Tissue Engineering, The First Dongguan Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, China; Department of Venereal Diseases and Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine and Bone Paralysis, Longjiang Hospital of Shunde District, Foshan, China
| | - Dong Junfeng
- Dongguan Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Tissue Engineering, The First Dongguan Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, China
| | - Liu Shuxian
- Guangzhou Huadu District Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital (Huzhong Hospital of Huadu District), Guangzhou, China
| | - Wang Tao
- Department of Venereal Diseases and Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine and Bone Paralysis, Longjiang Hospital of Shunde District, Foshan, China.
| | - Wang Liyun
- Guangzhou Huadu District Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital (Huzhong Hospital of Huadu District), Guangzhou, China.
| | - Wu Hongfu
- Dongguan Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Tissue Engineering, The First Dongguan Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, China.
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Li H, Wang XR, Hu YF, Xiong YW, Zhu HL, Huang YC, Wang H. Advances in immunology of male reproductive toxicity induced by common environmental pollutants. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2024; 190:108898. [PMID: 39047547 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2024.108898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2024] [Revised: 06/25/2024] [Accepted: 07/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
Humans are exposed to an ever-increasing number of environmental toxicants, some of which have gradually been identified as major risk factors for male reproductive health, even associated with male infertility. Male infertility is usually due to the reproductive system damage, which may be influenced by the exposure to contaminants such as heavy metals, plasticizers, along with genetics and lifestyle. Testicular immune microenvironment (TIM) is important in maintaining normal physiological functions of the testis, whether disturbed TIM after exposure to environmental toxicants could induce reproductive toxicity remains to be explored. Therefore, the current review aims to contribute to the further understanding of exposure and male infertility by characterizing environmental exposures and the effect on TIM. We first summarized the male reproductive toxicity phenotypes induced by common environmental pollutants. Contaminants including heavy metals and plastic additives and fine particulate matter (PM2.5), have been repetitively associated with male infertility, whereas emerging contaminants such as perfluoroalkyl substances and micro(nano)plastics have also been found to disrupt TIM and lead to male reproductive toxicity. We further reviewed the importance of TIM and its homeostasis in maintaining the normal physiological functions of the testis. Most importantly, we discussed the advances in immunology of male reproductive toxicity induced by metals and metalloids, plastic additives, persistent organic pollutants (POPs), micro(nano)plastic and PM2.5 to suggest the importance of reproductive immunotoxicology in the future study of environmental toxicants, but also contribute to the development of effective prevention and treatment strategies for mitigating adverse effects of environmental pollutants on human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Li
- Department of Toxicology, Center for Big Data and Population Health of IHM, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230000, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230000, China
| | - Xin-Run Wang
- Department of Toxicology, Center for Big Data and Population Health of IHM, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230000, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230000, China
| | - Yi-Fan Hu
- Department of Toxicology, Center for Big Data and Population Health of IHM, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230000, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230000, China
| | - Yong-Wei Xiong
- Department of Toxicology, Center for Big Data and Population Health of IHM, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230000, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230000, China
| | - Hua-Long Zhu
- Department of Toxicology, Center for Big Data and Population Health of IHM, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230000, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230000, China
| | - Yi-Chao Huang
- Department of Toxicology, Center for Big Data and Population Health of IHM, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230000, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230000, China; Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle, Anhui Medical University, Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, Hefei, 230000, China.
| | - Hua Wang
- Department of Toxicology, Center for Big Data and Population Health of IHM, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230000, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230000, China; Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle, Anhui Medical University, Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, Hefei, 230000, China.
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Zhu S, Jin Y, Zhou M, Li L, Song X, Su X, Liu B, Shen J. KK-LC-1, a biomarker for prognosis of immunotherapy for primary liver cancer. BMC Cancer 2024; 24:811. [PMID: 38972967 PMCID: PMC11229184 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-024-12586-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/09/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE There is mounting evidence that patients with liver cancer can benefit from Immune checkpoint inhibitors. However, due to the high cost and low efficacy, we aimed to explore new biomarkers for predicting the efficacy of immunotherapy. METHODS Specimens and medical records of liver cancer patients treated at Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University were collected, and the expression of Kita-Kyushu lung cancer antigen-1 (KK-LC-1) in tissues as well as the corresponding antibodies in serum were examined to find biomarkers related to the prognosis of immunotherapy and to explore its mechanism in the development of liver cancer. RESULTS KK-LC-1 expression was found to be 34.4% in histopathological specimens from 131 patients and was significantly correlated with Foxp3 expression (P = 0.0356). The expression of Foxp3 in the tissues of 24 patients who received immunotherapy was significantly correlated with overall survival (OS) (P = 0.0247), and there was also a tendency for prolonged OS in patients with high expression of KK-LC-1. In addition, the expression of KK-LC-1 antibody in the serum of patients who received immunotherapy with a first efficacy evaluation of stable disease (SD) was significantly higher than those with partial response (PR) (P = 0.0413). CONCLUSIONS Expression of KK-LC-1 in both tissues and serum has been shown to correlate with the prognosis of patients treated with immunotherapy, and KK-LC-1 is a potential therapeutic target for oncological immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sihui Zhu
- Comprehensive Cancer Centre, Department of Oncology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China
- Comprehensive Cancer Centre of Nanjing international Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
- Clinical Cancer Institute of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yuncheng Jin
- Comprehensive Cancer Centre, Department of Oncology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China
- Clinical Cancer Institute of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Mingzhen Zhou
- Comprehensive Cancer Centre, Department of Oncology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China
- Clinical Cancer Institute of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Lin Li
- Comprehensive Cancer Centre, Department of Oncology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China
- Clinical Cancer Institute of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
- Department of Pathologyof Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China
| | - Xueru Song
- Comprehensive Cancer Centre, Department of Oncology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China
- Clinical Cancer Institute of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xinyu Su
- Comprehensive Cancer Centre, Department of Oncology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China
- Clinical Cancer Institute of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Baorui Liu
- Comprehensive Cancer Centre, Department of Oncology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China.
- Clinical Cancer Institute of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China.
| | - Jie Shen
- Comprehensive Cancer Centre, Department of Oncology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China.
- Clinical Cancer Institute of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China.
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Battistone MA, Elizagaray ML, Barrachina F, Ottino K, Mendelsohn AC, Breton S. Immunoregulatory mechanisms between epithelial clear cells and mononuclear phagocytes in the epididymis. Andrology 2024; 12:949-963. [PMID: 37572347 PMCID: PMC10859549 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2023] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/14/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION One of the most intriguing aspects of male reproductive physiology is the ability of the epididymis to prevent the mounting of immune responses against the onslaught of foreign antigens carried by spermatozoa while initiating very efficient immune responses versus stressors. Epithelial clear cells are strategically positioned to work in a concerted manner with region-specific heterogeneous subsets of mononuclear phagocytes to survey the epididymal barrier and regulate the balance between inflammation and immune tolerance in the post-testicular environment. OBJECTIVE This review aims to describe how clear cells communicate with mononuclear phagocytes to contribute to the unique immune environment in which sperm mature and are stored in the epididymis. MATERIALS/METHODS A comprehensive systematic review was performed. PubMed was searched for articles specific to clear cells, mononuclear phagocytes, and epididymis. Articles that did not specifically address the target material were excluded. RESULTS In this review, we discuss the unexpected roles of clear cells, including the transfer of new proteins to spermatozoa via extracellular vesicles and nanotubes as they transit along the epididymal tubule; and we summarize the immune phenotype, morphology, and antigen capturing, processing, and presenting abilities of mononuclear phagocytes. Moreover, we present the current knowledge of immunoregulatory mechanisms by which clear cells and mononuclear phagocytes may contribute to the immune-privileged environment optimal for sperm maturation and storage. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION Notably, we provide an in-depth characterization of clear cell-mononuclear phagocyte communication networks in the steady-state epididymis and in the presence of injury. This review highlights crucial concepts of mucosal immunology and cellcell interactions, all of which are critical but understudied facets of human male reproductive health.
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Affiliation(s)
- MA Battistone
- Program in Membrane Biology, Nephrology Division, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - ML Elizagaray
- Program in Membrane Biology, Nephrology Division, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - F Barrachina
- Program in Membrane Biology, Nephrology Division, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - K Ottino
- Program in Membrane Biology, Nephrology Division, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - AC Mendelsohn
- Program in Membrane Biology, Nephrology Division, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - S Breton
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec-Research Center, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Québec (Québec), Canada
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7
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Atiakshin D, Kulchenko N, Kostin A, Ignatyuk M, Protasov A, Klabukov I, Baranovskii D, Faniev M, Korovyakova E, Chekmareva I, Buchwalow I, Tiemann M. Cyto- and Histopographic Assessment of CPA3-Positive Testicular Mast Cells in Obstructive and Non-Obstructive Azoospermia. Cells 2024; 13:833. [PMID: 38786055 PMCID: PMC11120214 DOI: 10.3390/cells13100833] [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: 02/10/2024] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Infertility is an important personal and society disease, of which the male factor represents half of all causes. One of the aspects less studied in male infertility is the immunological testicular microenvironment. Mast cells (MCs), having high potential for regulating spermatogenesis due to fine-tuning the state of the integrative buffer metabolic environment, are one of the most crucial cellular subpopulations of the testicular interstitium. One important component of the MC secretome is proteases that can act as proinflammatory agents and in extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling. In the testis, MCs are an important cell component of the testicular interstitial tissue (TIT). However, there are still no studies addressing the analysis of a specific MC protease-carboxypeptidase A3 (CPA3)-in cases with altered spermatogenesis. The cytological and histotopographic features of testicular CPA3+ MCs were examined in a study involving 34 men with azoospermia. As revealed, in cases with non-obstructive azoospermia, a higher content of CPA3+ MCs in the TIT and migration to the microvasculature and peritubular tissue of seminiferous tubules were observed when compared with cases with obstructive azoospermia. Additionally, a high frequency of CPA3+ MCs colocalization with fibroblasts, Leydig cells, and elastic fibers was detected in cases with NOA. Thus, CPA3 seems to be of crucial pathogenetic significance in the formation of a profibrogenic background of the tissue microenvironment, which may have direct and indirect effects on spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dmitrii Atiakshin
- RUDN University, 117198 Moscow, Russia; (N.K.); (A.K.); (M.I.); (A.P.); (M.F.); (E.K.); (I.C.); (I.B.)
- Research Institute of Experimental Biology and Medicine, Burdenko Voronezh State Medical University, 394036 Voronezh, Russia
| | - Nina Kulchenko
- RUDN University, 117198 Moscow, Russia; (N.K.); (A.K.); (M.I.); (A.P.); (M.F.); (E.K.); (I.C.); (I.B.)
| | - Andrey Kostin
- RUDN University, 117198 Moscow, Russia; (N.K.); (A.K.); (M.I.); (A.P.); (M.F.); (E.K.); (I.C.); (I.B.)
| | - Michael Ignatyuk
- RUDN University, 117198 Moscow, Russia; (N.K.); (A.K.); (M.I.); (A.P.); (M.F.); (E.K.); (I.C.); (I.B.)
| | - Andrey Protasov
- RUDN University, 117198 Moscow, Russia; (N.K.); (A.K.); (M.I.); (A.P.); (M.F.); (E.K.); (I.C.); (I.B.)
| | - Ilya Klabukov
- National Medical Research Radiological Centre of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Koroleva St. 4, 249036 Obninsk, Russia (D.B.)
| | - Denis Baranovskii
- National Medical Research Radiological Centre of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Koroleva St. 4, 249036 Obninsk, Russia (D.B.)
| | - Mikhail Faniev
- RUDN University, 117198 Moscow, Russia; (N.K.); (A.K.); (M.I.); (A.P.); (M.F.); (E.K.); (I.C.); (I.B.)
| | - Elina Korovyakova
- RUDN University, 117198 Moscow, Russia; (N.K.); (A.K.); (M.I.); (A.P.); (M.F.); (E.K.); (I.C.); (I.B.)
| | - Irina Chekmareva
- RUDN University, 117198 Moscow, Russia; (N.K.); (A.K.); (M.I.); (A.P.); (M.F.); (E.K.); (I.C.); (I.B.)
| | - Igor Buchwalow
- RUDN University, 117198 Moscow, Russia; (N.K.); (A.K.); (M.I.); (A.P.); (M.F.); (E.K.); (I.C.); (I.B.)
- Institute for Hematopathology, Fangdieckstr, 75a, 22547 Hamburg, Germany;
| | - Markus Tiemann
- Institute for Hematopathology, Fangdieckstr, 75a, 22547 Hamburg, Germany;
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Hu Y, Shen M, Wang C, Huang Q, Li R, Dorj G, Gombojav E, Du J, Ren L. A meta-analysis-based adverse outcome pathway for the male reproductive toxicity induced by microplastics and nanoplastics in mammals. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 465:133375. [PMID: 38160553 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.133375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
The male reproductive toxicity of microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) has attracted great attention, but the latent mechanisms remain fragmented. This review performed the adverse outcome pathway (AOP) analysis and meta-analysis in 39 relevant studies, with the AOP analysis to reveal the cause-and-effect relationships of MPs/NPs-induced male reproductive toxicity and the meta-analysis to quantify the toxic effects. In the AOP framework, increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) is the molecular initiating event (MIE), which triggered several key events (KEs) at different levels. At the cellular level, the KEs included oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, sperm DNA damage, endoplasmic reticulum stress, apoptosis and autophagy of testicular cells, repressed expression of steroidogenic enzymes and steroidogenic acute regulatory protein, disrupted hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular (HPT) axis, and gut microbiota alteration. These KEs further induced the reduction of testosterone, impaired blood-testis barrier (BTB), testicular inflammation, and impaired spermatogenesis at tissue/organ levels. Ultimately, decreased sperm quality or quantity was noted and proved by meta-analysis, which demonstrated that MPs/NPs led to a decrease of 5.99 million/mL in sperm concentration, 14.62% in sperm motility, and 23.56% in sperm viability, while causing an increase of 10.65% in sperm abnormality rate. Overall, this is the first AOP for MPs/NPs-mediated male reproductive toxicity in mammals. The innovative integration of meta-analysis into the AOP analysis increases the rigorism of the results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yinchu Hu
- School of Nursing, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Meidi Shen
- School of Nursing, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Chongkun Wang
- School of Nursing, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Qifang Huang
- School of Nursing, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Ruiqiong Li
- School of Nursing, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Gantuya Dorj
- School of Public Health, Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences, Ulaanbaatar 14210, Mongolia
| | - Enkhjargal Gombojav
- School of Public Health, Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences, Ulaanbaatar 14210, Mongolia
| | - Jiwei Du
- Nursing Department, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen 518040, China
| | - Lihua Ren
- School of Nursing, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China.
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9
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Kimmins S, Anderson RA, Barratt CLR, Behre HM, Catford SR, De Jonge CJ, Delbes G, Eisenberg ML, Garrido N, Houston BJ, Jørgensen N, Krausz C, Lismer A, McLachlan RI, Minhas S, Moss T, Pacey A, Priskorn L, Schlatt S, Trasler J, Trasande L, Tüttelmann F, Vazquez-Levin MH, Veltman JA, Zhang F, O'Bryan MK. Frequency, morbidity and equity - the case for increased research on male fertility. Nat Rev Urol 2024; 21:102-124. [PMID: 37828407 DOI: 10.1038/s41585-023-00820-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023]
Abstract
Currently, most men with infertility cannot be given an aetiology, which reflects a lack of knowledge around gamete production and how it is affected by genetics and the environment. A failure to recognize the burden of male infertility and its potential as a biomarker for systemic illness exists. The absence of such knowledge results in patients generally being treated as a uniform group, for whom the strategy is to bypass the causality using medically assisted reproduction (MAR) techniques. In doing so, opportunities to prevent co-morbidity are missed and the burden of MAR is shifted to the woman. To advance understanding of men's reproductive health, longitudinal and multi-national centres for data and sample collection are essential. Such programmes must enable an integrated view of the consequences of genetics, epigenetics and environmental factors on fertility and offspring health. Definition and possible amelioration of the consequences of MAR for conceived children are needed. Inherent in this statement is the necessity to promote fertility restoration and/or use the least invasive MAR strategy available. To achieve this aim, protocols must be rigorously tested and the move towards personalized medicine encouraged. Equally, education of the public, governments and clinicians on the frequency and consequences of infertility is needed. Health options, including male contraceptives, must be expanded, and the opportunities encompassed in such investment understood. The pressing questions related to male reproductive health, spanning the spectrum of andrology are identified in the Expert Recommendation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Kimmins
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- The Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- The Département de Pathologie et Biologie Cellulaire, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Richard A Anderson
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Christopher L R Barratt
- Division of Systems Medicine, School of Medicine, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Hermann M Behre
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
| | - Sarah R Catford
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Royal Women's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Geraldine Delbes
- Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique, Centre Armand-Frappier Sante Biotechnologie, Laval, Quebec, Canada
| | - Michael L Eisenberg
- Department of Urology and Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Nicolas Garrido
- IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | - Brendan J Houston
- School of BioSciences and Bio21 Institute, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Niels Jørgensen
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Csilla Krausz
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, 'Mario Serio', University of Florence, University Hospital of Careggi Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Ariane Lismer
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Robert I McLachlan
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research and the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
- Monash IVF Group, Richmond, Victoria, Australia
| | - Suks Minhas
- Department of Surgery and Cancer Imperial, London, UK
| | - Tim Moss
- Healthy Male and the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Allan Pacey
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Lærke Priskorn
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Stefan Schlatt
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Jacquetta Trasler
- Departments of Paediatrics, Human Genetics and Pharmacology & Therapeutics, McGill University and Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Leonardo Trasande
- Center for the Investigation of Environmental Hazards, Department of Paediatrics, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Frank Tüttelmann
- Institute of Reproductive Genetics, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Mónica Hebe Vazquez-Levin
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas de Argentina, Fundación IBYME, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Joris A Veltman
- Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Feng Zhang
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Institute of Reproduction and Development, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Moira K O'Bryan
- School of BioSciences and Bio21 Institute, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Melbourne, Australia.
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10
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Abarikwu SO, Mgbudom-Okah CJ, Ndufeiya-Kumasi LC, Monye VE, Aruoren O, Ezim OE, Omeodu SI, Charles IA. Influence of triazines and lipopolysaccharide coexposure on inflammatory response and histopathological changes in the testis and liver of BalB/c mice. Heliyon 2024; 10:e24431. [PMID: 38293467 PMCID: PMC10826326 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e24431] [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: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Triazines are environmental active chemicals that have been reported to alter the inflammatory status of the gonads. We tested the anti-inflammatory effect of the triazines (atrazine; ATZ, simazine; SMZ and cyanazine; CYZ) on the testis and compared it with the more classical liver model that has substantial populations of resident macrophages comparable to the testis. Methods BalB/c mice were treated with 25 mg/kg ATZ, SMZ and CYZ for 30 days and injected with lipopolysaccharide (0.5 mg/kg i.p.) 6 h before sacrifice. Myeloperoxidase activity and nitric oxide level in the testis and liver homogenates were determined by spectrophotometry whereas tumor necrosis factor-alpha and interleukin-6 concentrations were evaluated by immunoassay. Haematoxylin and eosin stained sections of the tissues were observed using a light microscope. Results Myeloperoxidase activity, nitric oxide, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, and interleukin-6 levels were decreased in the liver and testis of the triazines co-treated animals. SMZ has the most potent inhibitory effect and ATZ the least effect on inflammatory mediators in both tissues. Microscopic evaluation showed loss of inflammatory cells in the inter-tubular areas of the testis and few patchy masses of infiltrating inflammatory cells around the central vein of the liver. Conclusion Triazines inhibit the levels of inflammatory mediators in the testis and liver of mice. The anti-inflammatory effect of triazines in a lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammation model was established in this study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunny O. Abarikwu
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Port Harcourt, Choba, Nigeria
| | | | | | - Vivian E. Monye
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Port Harcourt, Choba, Nigeria
| | - Oke Aruoren
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Port Harcourt, Choba, Nigeria
| | - Ogechukwu E. Ezim
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Port Harcourt, Choba, Nigeria
| | - Stephen I. Omeodu
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Port Harcourt, Choba, Nigeria
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11
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Wanjari UR, Gopalakrishnan AV. A review on immunological aspects in male reproduction: An immune cells and cytokines. J Reprod Immunol 2023; 158:103984. [PMID: 37390629 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2023.103984] [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: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 06/17/2023] [Accepted: 06/25/2023] [Indexed: 07/02/2023]
Abstract
The male reproductive system, particularly the male gamete, offers a unique barrier to the immune system. The growing germ cells in the testis need to be shielded from autoimmune damage. Hence the testis has to establish and sustain an immune-privileged milieu. Sertoli cells create this safe space, protected by the blood-testis barrier. Cytokines are a type of immune reaction that can positively and negatively affect male reproductive health. Inflammation, disease, and obesity are just a few physiological conditions for which cytokines mediate signals. They interact with steroidogenesis, shaping the adrenals and testes to produce the hormones needed for survival. In particular pathological condition, including autoimmune disorders, contains high levels of the same cytokines in semen that play an essential role in the immunomodulation of the male gonad. This review focuses on understanding the immunological role of cytokines in the control and development of male reproduction. Also, in maintaining male reproductive health and diseases linked with their aberrant function in the testis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Uddesh Ramesh Wanjari
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Bio-Sciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore, Tamil Nadu 632014, India
| | - Abilash Valsala Gopalakrishnan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Bio-Sciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore, Tamil Nadu 632014, India.
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12
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Costa J, Braga PC, Rebelo I, Oliveira PF, Alves MG. Mitochondria Quality Control and Male Fertility. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:827. [PMID: 37372112 DOI: 10.3390/biology12060827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Revised: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
Mitochondria are pivotal to cellular homeostasis, performing vital functions such as bioenergetics, biosynthesis, and cell signalling. Proper maintenance of these processes is crucial to prevent disease development and ensure optimal cell function. Mitochondrial dynamics, including fission, fusion, biogenesis, mitophagy, and apoptosis, maintain mitochondrial quality control, which is essential for overall cell health. In male reproduction, mitochondria play a pivotal role in germ cell development and any defects in mitochondrial quality can have serious consequences on male fertility. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) also play a crucial role in sperm capacitation, but excessive ROS levels can trigger oxidative damage. Any imbalance between ROS and sperm quality control, caused by non-communicable diseases or environmental factors, can lead to an increase in oxidative stress, cell damage, and apoptosis, which in turn affect sperm concentration, quality, and motility. Therefore, assessing mitochondrial functionality and quality control is essential to gain valuable insights into male infertility. In sum, proper mitochondrial functionality is essential for overall health, and particularly important for male fertility. The assessment of mitochondrial functionality and quality control can provide crucial information for the study and management of male infertility and may lead to the development of new strategies for its management.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Costa
- Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine (UMIB), Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
- ITR-Laboratory for Integrative and Translational Research in Population Health, 4050-600 Porto, Portugal
| | - Patrícia C Braga
- Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine (UMIB), Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
- ITR-Laboratory for Integrative and Translational Research in Population Health, 4050-600 Porto, Portugal
- Laboratory of Physiology, Department of Imuno-Physiology and Pharmacology, ICBAS-School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Irene Rebelo
- UCIBIO-REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Biochemistry, Department of Biologic Sciences, Pharmaceutical Faculty, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
- Associate Laboratory i4HB-Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Laboratory of Biochemistry, Department of Biologic Sciences, Pharmaceutical Faculty, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Pedro F Oliveira
- LAQV-REQUIMTE, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Marco G Alves
- Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine (UMIB), Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
- ITR-Laboratory for Integrative and Translational Research in Population Health, 4050-600 Porto, Portugal
- Laboratory of Physiology, Department of Imuno-Physiology and Pharmacology, ICBAS-School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
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13
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Peserico A, Barboni B, Russo V, Nardinocchi D, Turriani M, Cimini C, Bernabò N, Parolini O, Silini AR, Antonucci I, Stuppia L, Berardinelli P, Falanga I, Perruzza D, Valbonetti L, Mauro A. AEC and AFMSC Transplantation Preserves Fertility of Experimentally Induced Rat Varicocele by Expressing Differential Regenerative Mechanisms. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24108737. [PMID: 37240083 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24108737] [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: 04/15/2023] [Revised: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Amniotic membrane and amniotic fluid derived cells are regarded as a promising stem cell source for developing regenerative medicine techniques, although they have never been tested on male infertility diseases such as varicocele (VAR). The current study aimed to examine the effects of two distinct cell sources, human Amniotic Fluid Mesenchymal Stromal Cells (hAFMSCs) and amniotic epithelial cells (hAECs), on male fertility outcomes in a rat induced VAR model. To explain cell-dependent enhancement of reproductive outcomes in rats transplanted with hAECs and hAFMSCs, insights on testis morphology, endocannabinoid system (ECS) expression and inflammatory tissue response have been carried out alongside cell homing assessment. Both cell types survived 120 days post-transplantation by modulating the ECS main components, promoting proregenerative M2 macrophages (Mφ) recruitment and a favorable anti-inflammatory IL10 expression pattern. Of note, hAECs resulted to be more effective in restoring rat fertility rate by enhancing both structural and immunoresponse mechanisms. Moreover, immunofluorescence analysis revealed that hAECs contributed to CYP11A1 expression after transplantation, whereas hAFMSCs moved towards the expression of Sertoli cell marker, SOX9, confirming a different contribution into the mechanisms leading to testis homeostasis. These findings highlight, for the first time, a distinct role of amniotic membrane and amniotic fluid derived cells in male reproduction, thus proposing innovative targeted stem-based regenerative medicine protocols for remedying high-prevalence male infertility conditions such as VAR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessia Peserico
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Via R. Balzarini 1, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Barbara Barboni
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Via R. Balzarini 1, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Valentina Russo
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Via R. Balzarini 1, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Delia Nardinocchi
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Via R. Balzarini 1, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Maura Turriani
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Via R. Balzarini 1, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Costanza Cimini
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Via R. Balzarini 1, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Nicola Bernabò
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Via R. Balzarini 1, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Ornella Parolini
- Department of Life Sciences and Public Health, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Largo Vito, 1, 00168 Rome, Italy
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario "Agostino Gemelli" IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Antonietta Rosa Silini
- Centro di Ricerca E. Menni, Fondazione Poliambulanza Istituto Ospedaliero, 25124 Brescia, Italy
| | - Ivana Antonucci
- Department of Oral Sciences, Nano and Biotechnologies, "G. d'Annunzio" University, Via dei Vestini 31, 66013 Chieti, Italy
| | - Liborio Stuppia
- Department of Oral Sciences, Nano and Biotechnologies, "G. d'Annunzio" University, Via dei Vestini 31, 66013 Chieti, Italy
| | - Paolo Berardinelli
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Via R. Balzarini 1, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Ilaria Falanga
- Medline Srl, Via Galileo Ferraris 1, 84018 Scafati, Italy
| | - Davide Perruzza
- Reproductive Medicine Unit, S.I.S.Me.R., Via Mazzini 12, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Luca Valbonetti
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Via R. Balzarini 1, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Annunziata Mauro
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Via R. Balzarini 1, 64100 Teramo, Italy
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14
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Barrachina F, Ottino K, Tu LJ, Soberman RJ, Brown D, Breton S, Battistone MA. CX3CR1 deficiency leads to impairment of immune surveillance in the epididymis. Cell Mol Life Sci 2022; 80:15. [PMID: 36550225 PMCID: PMC9948740 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-022-04664-w] [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: 08/16/2022] [Revised: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Mononuclear phagocytes (MPs) play an active role in the immunological homeostasis of the urogenital tract. In the epididymis, a finely tuned balance between tolerance to antigenic sperm and immune activation is required to maintain epididymal function while protecting sperm against pathogens and stressors. We previously characterized a subset of resident MPs that express the CX3CR1 receptor, emphasizing their role in antigen sampling and processing during sperm maturation and storage in the murine epididymis. Bacteria-associated epididymitis is the most common cause of intrascrotal inflammation and frequently leads to reproductive complications. Here, we examined whether the lack of functional CX3CR1 in homozygous mice (CX3CR1EGFP/EGFP, KO) alters the ability of MPs to initiate immune responses during epididymitis induced by LPS intravasal-epididymal injection. Confocal microscopy revealed that CX3CR1-deficient MPs located in the initial segments of the epididymis displayed fewer luminal-reaching membrane projections and impaired antigen capture activity. Moreover, flow cytometry showed a reduction of epididymal KO MPs with a monocytic phenotype under physiological conditions. In contrast, flow cytometry revealed an increase in the abundance of MPs with a monocytic signature in the distal epididymal segments after an LPS challenge. This was accompanied by the accumulation of CD103+ cells in the interstitium, and the prevention or attenuation of epithelial damage in the KO epididymis during epididymitis. Additionally, CX3CR1 deletion induced downregulation of Gja1 (connexin 43) expression in KO MPs. Together, our study provides evidence that MPs are gatekeepers of the immunological blood-epididymis barrier and reveal the role of the CX3CR1 receptor in epididymal mucosal homeostasis by inducing MP luminal protrusions and by regulating the monocyte population in the epididymis at steady state as well as upon infection. We also uncover the interaction between MPs and CD103+ dendritic cells, presumably through connexin 43, that enhance immune responses during epididymitis. Our study may lead to new diagnostics and therapies for male infertility and epididymitis by identifying immune mechanisms in the epididymis.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Barrachina
- Program in Membrane Biology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA, USA
- Nephrology Division, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA, USA
| | - K Ottino
- Program in Membrane Biology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA, USA
- Nephrology Division, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA, USA
| | - L J Tu
- Program in Membrane Biology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA, USA
- Nephrology Division, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA, USA
| | - R J Soberman
- Nephrology Division, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA, USA
| | - D Brown
- Program in Membrane Biology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA, USA
- Nephrology Division, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA, USA
| | - S Breton
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec-Research Center, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - M A Battistone
- Program in Membrane Biology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA, USA.
- Nephrology Division, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA, USA.
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15
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Tang EI, Cheng CY. MARK2 and MARK4 Regulate Sertoli Cell BTB Dynamics Through Microtubule and Actin Cytoskeletons. Endocrinology 2022; 163:6667645. [PMID: 35971301 PMCID: PMC10147390 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqac130] [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: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Microtubule affinity-regulating kinases (MARKs) are nonreceptor Ser/Thr protein kinases known to regulate cell polarity and microtubule dynamics in Caenorhabditis elegans, Drosophila, invertebrates, vertebrates, and mammals. An earlier study has shown that MARK4 is present at the ectoplasmic specialization and blood-testis barrier (BTB) in the seminiferous epithelium of adult rat testes. Here, we report the function of MARK4 and another isoform MARK2 in Sertoli cells at the BTB. Knockdown of MARK2, MARK4, or MARK2 and MARK4 by RNAi using the corresponding siRNA duplexes without apparent off-target effects was shown to impair tight junction (TJ)-permeability barrier at the Sertoli cell BTB. It also disrupted microtubule (MT)- and actin-based cytoskeletal organization within Sertoli cells. Although MARK2 and MARK4 were shown to share sequence homology, they likely regulated the Sertoli cell BTB and MT cytoskeleton differently. Disruption of the TJ-permeability barrier following knockdown of MARK4 was considerably more severe than loss of MARK2, though both perturbed the barrier. Similarly, loss of MARK2 affected MT organization in a different manner than the loss of MARK4. Knockdown of MARK2 caused MT bundles to be arranged around the cell periphery, whereas knockdown of MARK4 caused MTs to retract from the cell edge. These differences in effects on the TJ-permeability barrier are likely from the unique roles of MARK2 and MARK4 in regulating the MT cytoskeleton of the Sertoli cell.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth I Tang
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, Rockefeller University, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - C Yan Cheng
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, Rockefeller University, New York, NY 10065, USA
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310016, China
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16
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Santacroce L, Imbimbo C, Ballini A, Crocetto F, Scacco S, Cantore S, Di Zazzo E, Colella M, Jirillo E. Testicular Immunity and Its Connection with the Microbiota. Physiological and Clinical Implications in the Light of Personalized Medicine. J Pers Med 2022; 12:1335. [PMID: 36013286 PMCID: PMC9409709 DOI: 10.3390/jpm12081335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Revised: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Reproduction is a complex process, which is based on the cooperation between the endocrine-immune system and the microbiota. Testicular immunity is characterized by the so-called immune privilege, a mechanism that avoids autoimmune attacks against proteins expressed by spermatozoa. Testicular microbiota is connected with the gut microbiota, the most prevalent site of commensals inthe body. Both microbiotas take part inthe development of the immune system and protection againstpathogen invasion. Dysbiosis is caused by concurrent pathologies, such as obesity, diabetes, infections and trauma. The substitution of beneficial bacteria with pathogens may lead to destruction of spermatozoa directly or indirectly and, ultimately, to male infertility. Novel therapeutic interventions, i.e., nutritional interventions and supplementation of natural products, such as, probiotics, prebiotics, antioxidants and polyphenols, may lead to the restoration of the otherwise-impaired male reproductive potential, even if experimental and clinical results are not always concordant. In this review, the structure and immune function of the testis will be described with special reference to the blood-testisbarrier. The regulatory role of both the gut and testicular microbiota will be illustrated in health and disease, also emphasizing therapeutic attempts with natural products for the correction of male infertility, in the era of personalized medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Santacroce
- Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, Section of Microbiology and Virology, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Ciro Imbimbo
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, School of Medicine, University of Naples “Federico II”, 80131Naples, Italy
| | - Andrea Ballini
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Felice Crocetto
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, School of Medicine, University of Naples “Federico II”, 80131Naples, Italy
| | - Salvatore Scacco
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neurosciences and Sense Organs, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Stefania Cantore
- Independent Researcher, Sorriso & Benessere—Ricerca e Clinica, 70129 Bari, Italy
| | - Erika Di Zazzo
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences “V. Tiberio”, University of Molise, 86100 Campobasso, Italy
| | - Marica Colella
- Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, Section of Microbiology and Virology, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Emilio Jirillo
- Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, Section of Microbiology and Virology, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy
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17
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Kayo D, Kanda S, Okubo K. Allogeneic testes transplanted into partially castrated adult medaka (Oryzias latipes) can produce donor-derived offspring by natural mating over a prolonged period. ZOOLOGICAL LETTERS 2022; 8:10. [PMID: 35879745 PMCID: PMC9310406 DOI: 10.1186/s40851-022-00195-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Generally, successful testis transplantation has been considered to require immune suppression in the recipient to avoid rejection of the transplanted tissue. In the present study, we demonstrate in medaka that allogeneic adult testicular tissue will engraft in adult recipients immediately after partial castration without the use of immunosuppressive drugs. The allografted testes are retained in the recipient's body for at least 3 months and are able to produce viable sperm that yield offspring after natural mating. Some recipients showed a high frequency (over 60%) of offspring derived from spermatozoa produced by the transplanted testicular tissue. Histological analyses showed that allografted testicular tissues included both germ cells and somatic cells that had become established within an immunocompetent recipient testis. The relative simplicity of this testis transplantation approach will benefit investigations of the basic processes of reproductive immunology and will improve the technique of gonadal tissue transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daichi Kayo
- Department of Aquatic Bioscience, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Science, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo, Tokyo, 113-8657, Japan.
- Present address: Laboratory of Molecular Ethology, Department of Integrative Life Sciences, Graduate School of Life Sciences, Tohoku University, Sendai, Miyagi, 980-8577, Japan.
| | - Shinji Kanda
- Laboratory of Physiology, Atmosphere and Ocean Research Institute, The University of Tokyo, Kashiwa, Chiba, 277-8564, Japan
| | - Kataaki Okubo
- Department of Aquatic Bioscience, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Science, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo, Tokyo, 113-8657, Japan
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18
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Hu YW, Wang SH, Tang Y, Xie GQ, Ding YJ, Xu QY, Tang B, Zhang L, Wang SG. Suppression of yolk formation, oviposition and egg quality of locust (Locusta migratoria manilensis) infected by Paranosema locustae. Front Immunol 2022; 13:848267. [PMID: 35935997 PMCID: PMC9352533 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.848267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Locusta migratoria manilensis is one of the most important agricultural pests in China. The locust has high fecundity and consumes large quantities of food, causing severe damage to diverse crops such as corn, sorghum, and rice. Immunity against pathogens and reproductive success are two important components of individual fitness, and many insects have a trade-off between reproduction and immunity when resources are limited, which may be an important target for pest control. In this study, adult females L. migratoria manilensis were treated with different concentrations (5 × 106 spores/mL or 2 × 107 spores/mL) of the entomopathogenic fungus Paranosema locustae. Effects of input to immunity on reproduction were studied by measuring feeding amount, enzyme activity, vitellogenin (Vg) and vitellogenin receptor (VgR) production, ovary development, and oviposition amount. When infected by P. locustae, feeding rate and phenol oxidase and lysozyme activities increased, mRNA expression of Vg and VgR genes decreased, and yolk deposition was blocked. Weight of ovaries decreased, with significant decreases in egg, length and weight.Thus, locusts used nutritive input required for reproduction to resist invasion by microsporidia. This leads to a decrease in expression of Vg and VgR genes inhibited ovarian development, and greatly decreased total fecundity. P. locustae at 2 × 107 spores/mL had a more obvious inhibitory effect on the ovarian development in migratory locusts. This study provides a detailed trade-off between reproduction and immune input of the female, which provides a reliable basis to find pest targets for biological control from those trade-off processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yao-Wen Hu
- Hangzhou Key Laboratory of Animal Adaptation and Evolution, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shao-Hua Wang
- Hangzhou Key Laboratory of Animal Adaptation and Evolution, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Ya Tang
- Hangzhou Key Laboratory of Animal Adaptation and Evolution, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Guo-Qiang Xie
- Hangzhou Key Laboratory of Animal Adaptation and Evolution, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yan-Juan Ding
- Hangzhou Key Laboratory of Animal Adaptation and Evolution, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Qing-Ye Xu
- Hangzhou Key Laboratory of Animal Adaptation and Evolution, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Bin Tang
- Hangzhou Key Laboratory of Animal Adaptation and Evolution, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Long Zhang
- Department of Entomology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Shi-Gui Wang
- Hangzhou Key Laboratory of Animal Adaptation and Evolution, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Shi-Gui Wang,
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19
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Garcia-Alonso L, Lorenzi V, Mazzeo CI, Alves-Lopes JP, Roberts K, Sancho-Serra C, Engelbert J, Marečková M, Gruhn WH, Botting RA, Li T, Crespo B, van Dongen S, Kiselev VY, Prigmore E, Herbert M, Moffett A, Chédotal A, Bayraktar OA, Surani A, Haniffa M, Vento-Tormo R. Single-cell roadmap of human gonadal development. Nature 2022; 607:540-547. [PMID: 35794482 PMCID: PMC9300467 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-022-04918-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 111] [Impact Index Per Article: 55.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2021] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Gonadal development is a complex process that involves sex determination followed by divergent maturation into either testes or ovaries1. Historically, limited tissue accessibility, a lack of reliable in vitro models and critical differences between humans and mice have hampered our knowledge of human gonadogenesis, despite its importance in gonadal conditions and infertility. Here, we generated a comprehensive map of first- and second-trimester human gonads using a combination of single-cell and spatial transcriptomics, chromatin accessibility assays and fluorescent microscopy. We extracted human-specific regulatory programmes that control the development of germline and somatic cell lineages by profiling equivalent developmental stages in mice. In both species, we define the somatic cell states present at the time of sex specification, including the bipotent early supporting population that, in males, upregulates the testis-determining factor SRY and sPAX8s, a gonadal lineage located at the gonadal-mesonephric interface. In females, we resolve the cellular and molecular events that give rise to the first and second waves of granulosa cells that compartmentalize the developing ovary to modulate germ cell differentiation. In males, we identify human SIGLEC15+ and TREM2+ fetal testicular macrophages, which signal to somatic cells outside and inside the developing testis cords, respectively. This study provides a comprehensive spatiotemporal map of human and mouse gonadal differentiation, which can guide in vitro gonadogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - João Pedro Alves-Lopes
- Wellcome Trust/Cancer Research UK Gurdon Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Physiology, Development and Neuroscience Department, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | | | | | - Justin Engelbert
- Biosciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Magda Marečková
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Cambridge, UK
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Wolfram H Gruhn
- Wellcome Trust/Cancer Research UK Gurdon Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Physiology, Development and Neuroscience Department, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Rachel A Botting
- Biosciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Tong Li
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Cambridge, UK
| | - Berta Crespo
- Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK
| | | | | | | | - Mary Herbert
- Biosciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Ashley Moffett
- University of Cambridge Centre for Trophoblast Research, Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Alain Chédotal
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, Paris, France
| | | | - Azim Surani
- Wellcome Trust/Cancer Research UK Gurdon Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Physiology, Development and Neuroscience Department, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Wellcome-MRC Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre, Cambridge, UK
| | - Muzlifah Haniffa
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Cambridge, UK
- Biosciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
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20
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McClusky LM. Several routes of cell death to secondary necrosis in the elasmobranch testis. Apoptosis 2022; 27:454-464. [PMID: 35672487 PMCID: PMC9308584 DOI: 10.1007/s10495-022-01733-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The process of spermatogenesis features significant germ cell loss through apoptosis. Routine histology of the testes of well-studied animal models hardly discloses any trace of their phagocytic clearance by the supporting Sertoli cells. This review highlights lessons learnt from the cystic, diametric testes of some seasonally migrating elasmobranchs (e.g., spiny dogfish and blue sharks) that offer unconventional investigative paradigms to study these phenomena as these organs readily disclose a pronounced apoptosis gradient affecting exclusively spermatogonial clones that each are enclosed with their own Sertoli cells in spherical structures called spermatocysts. This gradient is visible at a certain time of year in the spermatogenically active shark, and peaks in mature spermatogonial cysts as clustered deaths with sporadic, and not massive secondary necrosis. Conversely, immature spermatogonial cysts in blue sharks reveal a characteristic periluminal display of single apoptotic deaths. Tracing aberrations in the immunostaining patterns of the conserved cell cycle marker, proliferating cell nuclear antigen, the gradual progression of the death process in individual or coalesced spermatogonia in contiguous cysts becomes clear. The multiple apoptotic nuclear fragmentation morphologies inform also of a protracted death process involving three different morphological routes of nuclear fragmentation (of which some are TUNEL-positive and other TUNEL-negative) and concomitant chromatin compaction that culminate in freed apoptotic bodies (i.e., secondary necrosis). It is discussed that the staggered spermatogonial deaths and accompanying intermittent secondary necrosis in mature blue shark spermatogonial cysts may well relate to the low phagocytosis capacity of cyst’s Sertoli cells that are still functionally naïve.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leon Mendel McClusky
- Anatomy Section, Department of Health & Care, Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Campus Narvik, Narvik, Norway.
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21
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Pedersen K, Blirup-Plum SA, Kristensen CS, Kvisgaard LK, Skade L, Jensen HE, Larsen LE. Virological and Histopathological Findings in Boars Naturally Infected With Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Virus Type 1. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:874498. [PMID: 35633676 PMCID: PMC9130840 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.874498] [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: 02/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Major geographical transmission of porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) occurs via semen when a boar stud is infected. This happened in Denmark in 2019, providing an opportunity to compare previous experimental PRRSV boar studies with natural PRRSV-1 infection in boars. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between the presence of PRRSV RNA in serum, semen, testicles, and epididymis of boars naturally infected with PRRSV and to describe the histological lesions in the testes and epididymis combined with direct visualisation of PRRSV-infected cells by immunohistochemical staining (IHC). The exact timing of infection of each boar was not determined, but based on serology the boars were divided into two groups: acute and late infections. All boars included were sampled the same day. In this study, 35 boars and 10 healthy boars from another PRRSV-negative boar stud were included as histological controls. PRRSV RNA was found most often in serum (51%) and least frequently in semen (22%) and was more often detected in the reproductive tract in the acute phase of infection (p < 0.0001; RR: 2.58). Mononuclear cells and multinuclear giant cells were present in the adluminal compartment of the testis and epididymis in PRRSV-infected boars, but not in control boars (p < 0.05), which supports the hypothesis that macrophages are involved in the venereal spread of the virus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kasper Pedersen
- SEGES Danish Pig Research Centre, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | | | | | - Lise Kirstine Kvisgaard
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Lotte Skade
- SEGES Danish Pig Research Centre, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Henrik Elvang Jensen
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Lars Erik Larsen
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, Denmark
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22
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Yang Y, Li Q, Huang R, Xia H, Tang Y, Mai W, Liang J, Ma S, Chen D, Feng Y, Lei Y, Zhang Q, Huang Y. Small-Molecule-Driven Direct Reprogramming of Fibroblasts into Functional Sertoli-Like Cells as a Model for Male Reproductive Toxicology. Adv Biol (Weinh) 2022; 6:e2101184. [PMID: 35212192 DOI: 10.1002/adbi.202101184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2021] [Revised: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Sertoli cells (SCs) are vital to providing morphological and nutritional support for spermatogenesis. Defects in SCs often lead to infertility. SCs transplantation is a promising potential strategy to compensate for SC dysfunction. However, isolation of SCs from testes is impractical due to obvious and ethical limitations. Here, a molecular cocktail is identified comprising of pan-BET family inhibitor (I-BET151), retinoic acid, and riluzole that enables the efficient conversion of fibroblasts into functional Sertoli-like cells (CiSCs). The gene expression profiles of CiSCs resemble those of mature SCs and exhibit functional properties such as the formation of testicular seminiferous tubules, engulfment of apoptotic sperms, supporting the survival of germ cells, and suppressing proliferation of primary lymphocytes in vitro. Moreover, CiSCs are sensitive to toxic substances, making them an alternative model to study the deleterious effects of toxicants on SCs. The study provides an efficient approach to reprogram fibroblasts into functional SCs by using pure chemical compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Yang
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China.,Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Quan Li
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Rufei Huang
- Department of Pharmacology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Huan Xia
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Yan Tang
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Wanwen Mai
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Jinlian Liang
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Siying Ma
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Derong Chen
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Yuqing Feng
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China.,Department of Pharmacology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Yaling Lei
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Qihao Zhang
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China.,Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Yadong Huang
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China.,Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
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23
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Kabbesh H, Bulldan A, Konrad L, Scheiner-Bobis G. The Role of ZIP9 and Androgen Receptor in the Establishment of Tight Junctions between Adult Rat Sertoli Cells. BIOLOGY 2022; 11:biology11050668. [PMID: 35625396 PMCID: PMC9138102 DOI: 10.3390/biology11050668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Revised: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The blood-testis barrier (BTB) is formed from tight junctions (TJs) between Sertoli cells. This dynamic structure, which establishes an immune-privileged environment protecting haploid germ cells formed in puberty from cells of the innate immune system, protects male fertility. Testosterone produced in Leydig cells is one of the main regulators of TJ protein expression and BTB dynamics. Nevertheless, although it has been assumed that testosterone effects on TJs and BTB are mediated through the classical androgen receptor (AR), newer results call the importance of this receptor into question. ZIP9, a recently identified androgen receptor of plasma membranes, mediates testosterone effects that promote the expression of TJ proteins and TJ formation in a rat Sertoli cell line that lacks the classical AR. Although these findings suggest that ZIP9 mediates these testosterone effects, participation of the classical AR in these events cannot be excluded. Here we used immortalized adult rat Sertoli cells that express both ZIP9 and AR and addressed the involvement of these receptors in the stimulation of TJ protein expression and TJ formation in response to testosterone and to the androgenic peptide IAPG that acts via ZIP9. We find that both testosterone and IAPG trigger the so-called non-classical signaling pathway of testosterone and stimulate the expression of TJ-associated proteins and TJ formation. Silencing classical AR expression had no effect on the responses, whereas silencing of ZIP9 expression completely blocked them. Our results demonstrate that ZIP9 is the sole androgen receptor involved in the regulation of TJ protein expression and TJ formation at the BTB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hassan Kabbesh
- Institute for Veterinary Physiology and Biochemistry, School of Veterinary Medicine, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Frankfurter Str., D-35392 Giessen, Germany; (H.K.); (A.B.)
- Center of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Faculty of Medicine, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Feulgenstr. 10-12, D-35392 Giessen, Germany;
| | - Ahmed Bulldan
- Institute for Veterinary Physiology and Biochemistry, School of Veterinary Medicine, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Frankfurter Str., D-35392 Giessen, Germany; (H.K.); (A.B.)
| | - Lutz Konrad
- Center of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Faculty of Medicine, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Feulgenstr. 10-12, D-35392 Giessen, Germany;
| | - Georgios Scheiner-Bobis
- Institute for Veterinary Physiology and Biochemistry, School of Veterinary Medicine, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Frankfurter Str., D-35392 Giessen, Germany; (H.K.); (A.B.)
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24
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Kortleve D, Coelho RM, Hammerl D, Debets R. Cancer germline antigens and tumor-agnostic CD8+ T cell evasion. Trends Immunol 2022; 43:391-403. [DOI: 10.1016/j.it.2022.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2022] [Revised: 03/09/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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25
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Ahmed S, Dongdong B, Jiayu Z, Liu G, Ding Y, Jiang X, Teketay W, Jing H. Immunocastration with gene vaccine (KISS1) induces a cell-mediated immune response in ram testis: A transcriptome evaluation. Reprod Domest Anim 2022; 57:653-664. [PMID: 35247007 DOI: 10.1111/rda.14106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Accepted: 02/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Immunocastration vaccines achieve their effects through neutralization of the endogenous hormone by the humoral antibody produced against the immunized genes. But there is little information regarding cell-mediated immune response on the gonadal function of the immunized model is available. In this study, we used ram as a model animal to identify the cellular immune response in testicular tissues of rams immunized with intranasal KISS1 gene vaccine. The immune castration model was evaluated by sexual behaviors, spermatogenesis, and serum hormone profiles after the KISS1 gene immunization. Transcriptome analysis of testicular tissues was carried out to identify the expressions of protein-coding genes involved in cellular immunity. The results showed that we successfully constructed the KISS1 immune castration ram model, in which testicular growth and development, testosterone and kisspeptin-54 levels, and sexual function were suppressed in immunized rams (P <0.05). Using HiseqTM 2000 high sequencing for ram testicular, we identified 21 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) related to cellular immunity, of which, 14 genes were up-regulated and seven genes were down-regulated in the testis of the immunized group (P<0.05). The Gene Ontology (GO) and the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment showed that these differentially expressed genes were enriched in the antigen presentation process mediated by MHC class I and the cytotoxic pathway mediated by natural killer cells. It is concluded that KISS1 gene vaccine induced the cell-mediated immune response in testicular tissue to suppress reproductive activities in rams.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sohail Ahmed
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, People's Republic of China.,Laboratory of Sheep and Goat Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, People's Republic of China
| | - Bo Dongdong
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, People's Republic of China.,Laboratory of Sheep and Goat Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhao Jiayu
- Laboratory of Sheep and Goat Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, People's Republic of China
| | - Guiqiong Liu
- Laboratory of Sheep and Goat Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, People's Republic of China
| | - Yi Ding
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, People's Republic of China.,Laboratory of Sheep and Goat Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, People's Republic of China
| | - Xunping Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, People's Republic of China.,Laboratory of Sheep and Goat Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, People's Republic of China
| | - Wassie Teketay
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, People's Republic of China.,Laboratory of Sheep and Goat Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, People's Republic of China
| | - Haijing Jing
- Laboratory of Sheep and Goat Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, People's Republic of China
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26
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Changes in Expression of Specific mRNA Transcripts after Single- or Re-Irradiation in Mouse Testes. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:genes13010151. [PMID: 35052491 PMCID: PMC8775240 DOI: 10.3390/genes13010151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Revised: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Alkylating agents and irradiation induce testicular damage, which results in prolonged azoospermia. Even very low doses of radiation can significantly impair testis function. However, re-irradiation is an effective strategy for locally targeted treatments and the pain response and has seen important advances in the field of radiation oncology. At present, little is known about the relationship between the harmful effects and accumulated dose of irradiation derived from continuous low-dose radiation exposure. In this study, we examined the levels of mRNA transcripts encoding markers of 13 markers of germ cell differentiation and 28 Sertoli cell-specific products in single- and re-irradiated mice. Our results demonstrated that re-irradiation induced significantly decreased testicular weights with a significant decrease in germ cell differentiation mRNA species (Spo11, Tnp1, Gfra1, Oct4, Sycp3, Ddx4, Boll, Crem, Prm1, and Acrosin). In the 13 Sertoli cell-specific mRNA species decreased upon irradiation, six mRNA species (Claudin-11,Espn, Fshr, GATA1, Inhbb, and Wt1) showed significant differences between single- and re-irradiation. At the same time, different decreases in Sertoli cell-specific mRNA species were found in single-irradiation (Aqp8, Clu, Cst12, and Wnt5a) and re-irradiation (Tjp1, occludin,ZO-1, and ZO-2) mice. These results indicate that long-term aspermatogenesis may differ after single- and re-irradiated treatment.
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27
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Ethyl pyruvate, a versatile protector in inflammation and autoimmunity. Inflamm Res 2022; 71:169-182. [PMID: 34999919 PMCID: PMC8742706 DOI: 10.1007/s00011-021-01529-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2021] [Revised: 11/26/2021] [Accepted: 11/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Ethyl pyruvate (EP) has potent influence on redox processes, cellular metabolism, and inflammation. It has been intensively studied in numerous animal models of systemic and organ-specific disorders whose pathogenesis involves a strong immune component. Here, basic chemical and biological properties of EP are discussed, with an emphasis on its redox and metabolic activity. Further, its influence on myeloid and T cells is considered, as well as on intracellular signaling beyond its effect on immune cells. Also, the effects of EP on animal models of chronic inflammatory and autoimmune disorders are presented. Finally, a possibility to apply EP as a treatment for such diseases in humans is discussed. Scientific papers cited in this review were identified using the PubMed search engine that relies on the MEDLINE database. The reference list covers the most important findings in the field in the past twenty years.
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28
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Möller ML, Bulldan A, Scheiner-Bobis G. Tetrapeptides Modelled to the Androgen Binding Site of ZIP9 Stimulate Expression of Tight Junction Proteins and Tight Junction Formation in Sertoli Cells. BIOLOGY 2021; 11:55. [PMID: 35053053 PMCID: PMC8773409 DOI: 10.3390/biology11010055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Revised: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 12/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Androgens stimulate the expression of tight junction (TJ) proteins and the formation of the blood-testis barrier (BTB). Interactions of testosterone with the zinc transporter ZIP9 stimulate the expression of TJ-forming proteins and promote TJ formation in Sertoli cells. In order to investigate androgenic effects mediated by ZIP9 but not by the nuclear androgen receptor (AR), the effects of three tetrapeptides fitting the androgen binding site of ZIP9 were compared with those induced by testosterone in a Sertoli cell line expressing ZIP9 but not the AR. Three tetrapeptides and testosterone displaced testosterone-BSA-FITC from the surface of 93RS2 cells and stimulated the non-classical testosterone signaling pathway that includes the activation of Erk1/2 kinases and transcription factors CREB and ATF-1. The expression of the TJ-associated proteins ZO-1 and claudin-5 was triggered as was the re-distribution of claudin-1 from the cytosol to the membrane and nucleus. Furthermore, TJ formation was stimulated, indicated by increased transepithelial electrical resistance. Silencing ZIP9 expression by siRNA prevented all of these responses. These results are consistent with an alternative pathway for testosterone action at the BTB that does not involve the nuclear AR and highlight the significant role of ZIP9 as a cell-surface androgen receptor that stimulates TJ formation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Georgios Scheiner-Bobis
- Institute of Veterinary Physiology and Biochemistry, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Frankfurter Str. 100, 35392 Giessen, Germany; (M.-L.M.); (A.B.)
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29
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Cdc42 activity in Sertoli cells is essential for maintenance of spermatogenesis. Cell Rep 2021; 37:109885. [PMID: 34706238 PMCID: PMC8604081 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2021.109885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Revised: 08/17/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Sertoli cells are highly polarized testicular supporting cells that simultaneously nurture multiple stages of germ cells during spermatogenesis. Proper localization of polarity protein complexes within Sertoli cells, including those responsible for blood-testis barrier formation, is vital for spermatogenesis. However, the mechanisms and developmental timing that underlie Sertoli cell polarity are poorly understood. We investigate this aspect of testicular function by conditionally deleting Cdc42, encoding a Rho GTPase involved in regulating cell polarity, specifically in Sertoli cells. Sertoli Cdc42 deletion leads to increased apoptosis and disrupted polarity of juvenile and adult testes but does not affect fetal and postnatal testicular development. The onset of the first wave of spermatogenesis occurs normally, but it fails to progress past round spermatid stages, and by young adulthood, conditional knockout males exhibit a complete loss of spermatogenic cells. These findings demonstrate that Cdc42 is essential for Sertoli cell polarity and for maintaining steady-state sperm production. Sertoli cells of the testicular seminiferous tubule must be highly polarized to simultaneously sustain multiple stages of germ cells during spermatogenesis. Heinrich et al. use a Sertoli-specific conditional deletion mouse model to address the roles of CDC42-mediated apicobasal cell polarity in promoting testis development and spermatogenesis.
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30
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Dutta S, Sandhu N, Sengupta P, Alves MG, Henkel R, Agarwal A. Somatic-Immune Cells Crosstalk In-The-Making of Testicular Immune Privilege. Reprod Sci 2021; 29:2707-2718. [PMID: 34580844 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-021-00721-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 08/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Immunological infertility contributes significantly to the etiology of idiopathic male infertility. Shielding the spermatogenic cells from systemic immune responses is fundamental to secure normal production of spermatozoa. The body's immune system is tuned with the host self-components since the early postnatal period, while sperm first develops during puberty, thus rendering spermatogenic proteins as 'non-self' or 'antigenic.' Development of antibodies to these antigens elicits autoimmune responses affecting sperm motility, functions, and fertility. Therefore, the testes need to establish a specialized immune-privileged microenvironment to protect the allogenic germ cells by orchestration of various testicular cells and resident immune cells. This is achieved through sequestration of antigenic germ cells by blood-testis barrier and actions of various endocrine, paracrine, immune-suppressive, and immunomodulatory mechanisms. The various mechanisms are very complex and need conceptual integration to disclose the exact physiological scenario, and to facilitate detection and management of immunogenic infertility caused by disruption of testicular immune regulation. The present review aims to (a) discuss the components of testicular immune privilege; (b) explain testicular somatic and immune cell interactions in establishing and maintaining the testicular immune micro-environment; and (c) illustrate the integration of multiple mechanisms involved in the control of immune privilege of the testis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sulagna Dutta
- Department of Oral Biology and Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, MAHSA University, Jenjarom, Selangor , Malaysia
| | - Narpal Sandhu
- Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Pallav Sengupta
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Bioscience and Nursing, MAHSA University, Jenjarom, Selangor , Malaysia
| | - Marco G Alves
- Department of Anatomy and Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine (UMIB), Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Ralf Henkel
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, UK
- Department of Medical Bioscience, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, South Africa
- LogixX Pharma, Theale, Berkshire, UK
| | - Ashok Agarwal
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Mail Code X-11, 10681 Carnegie Avenue, Cleveland, OH, 44195, USA.
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31
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O'Donnell L, Rebourcet D, Dagley LF, Sgaier R, Infusini G, O'Shaughnessy PJ, Chalmel F, Fietz D, Weidner W, Legrand JMD, Hobbs RM, McLachlan RI, Webb AI, Pilatz A, Diemer T, Smith LB, Stanton PG. Sperm proteins and cancer-testis antigens are released by the seminiferous tubules in mice and men. FASEB J 2021; 35:e21397. [PMID: 33565176 PMCID: PMC7898903 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202002484r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2020] [Revised: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Sperm develop from puberty in the seminiferous tubules, inside the blood-testis barrier to prevent their recognition as "non-self" by the immune system, and it is widely assumed that human sperm-specific proteins cannot access the circulatory or immune systems. Sperm-specific proteins aberrantly expressed in cancer, known as cancer-testis antigens (CTAs), are often pursued as cancer biomarkers and therapeutic targets based on the assumption they are neoantigens absent from the circulation in healthy men. Here, we identify a wide range of germ cell-derived and sperm-specific proteins, including multiple CTAs, that are selectively deposited by the Sertoli cells of the adult mouse and human seminiferous tubules into testicular interstitial fluid (TIF) that is "outside" the blood-testis barrier. From TIF, the proteins can access the circulatory- and immune systems. Disruption of spermatogenesis decreases the abundance of these proteins in mouse TIF, and a sperm-specific CTA is significantly decreased in TIF from infertile men, suggesting that exposure of certain CTAs to the immune system could depend on fertility status. The results provide a rationale for the development of blood-based tests useful in the management of male infertility and indicate CTA candidates for cancer immunotherapy and biomarker development that could show sex-specific and male-fertility-related responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liza O'Donnell
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia.,Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia.,Faculty of Science, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - Diane Rebourcet
- Faculty of Science, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - Laura F Dagley
- Walter and Eliza Hall Institute, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Raouda Sgaier
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia.,Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia.,Department of Urology, Pediatric Urology and Andrology, Medical Faculty, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, UKGM GmbH, Giessen, Germany
| | - Giuseppe Infusini
- Walter and Eliza Hall Institute, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Peter J O'Shaughnessy
- Univ Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail) - UMR_S 1085, Rennes, France
| | - Frederic Chalmel
- Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail), UMR_S 1085, University Rennes, Rennes, France
| | - Daniela Fietz
- Institute for Veterinary Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Weidner
- Department of Urology, Pediatric Urology and Andrology, Medical Faculty, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, UKGM GmbH, Giessen, Germany
| | - Julien M D Legrand
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia.,Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Robin M Hobbs
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia.,Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Robert I McLachlan
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia.,Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Andrew I Webb
- Walter and Eliza Hall Institute, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Adrian Pilatz
- Department of Urology, Pediatric Urology and Andrology, Medical Faculty, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, UKGM GmbH, Giessen, Germany
| | - Thorsten Diemer
- Department of Urology, Pediatric Urology and Andrology, Medical Faculty, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, UKGM GmbH, Giessen, Germany
| | - Lee B Smith
- Faculty of Science, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia.,MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Peter G Stanton
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia.,Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
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32
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Figueiredo AFA, Wnuk NT, Vieira CP, Gonçalves MFF, Brener MRG, Diniz AB, Antunes MM, Castro-Oliveira HM, Menezes GB, Costa GMJ. Activation of C-C motif chemokine receptor 2 modulates testicular macrophages number, steroidogenesis, and spermatogenesis progression. Cell Tissue Res 2021; 386:173-190. [PMID: 34296344 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-021-03504-w] [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: 09/17/2020] [Accepted: 07/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
The monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 (MCP-1) belongs to the CC chemokine family and acts in the recruitment of C-C motif chemokine receptor 2 (CCR2)-positive immune cell types to inflammation sites. In testis, the MCP-1/CCR2 axis has been associated with the macrophage population's functional regulation, which presents significant functions supporting germ cell development. In this context, herein, we aimed to investigate the role of the chemokine receptor CCR2 in mice testicular environment and its impact on male sperm production. Using adult transgenic mice strain that had the CCR2 gene replaced by a red fluorescent protein gene, we showed a stage-dependent expression of CCR2 in type B spermatogonia and early primary spermatocytes. Several parameters related to sperm production were reduced in the absence of CCR2 protein, such as Sertoli cell efficiency, meiotic index, and overall yield of spermatogenesis. Daily sperm production decreased by almost 40%, and several damages in the seminiferous tubules were observed. Significant reduction in the expression of important genes related to the Sertoli cell function (Cnx43, Vim, Ocln, Spna2) and meiosis initiation (Stra8, Pcna, Prdm9, Msh5) occurred in comparison to controls. Also, the number of macrophages significantly decreased in the absence of CCR2 protein, along with a disturbance in Leydig cell steroidogenic activity. In summary, our results show that the non-activation of the MCP-1/CCR2 axis disturbs the testicular homeostasis, interfering in macrophage population, meiosis initiation, blood-testis barrier function, and androgen synthesis, leading to the malfunction of seminiferous tubules, decreased testosterone levels, defective sperm production, and lower fertility index.
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Affiliation(s)
- A F A Figueiredo
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - N T Wnuk
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - C P Vieira
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - M F F Gonçalves
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - M R G Brener
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - A B Diniz
- Center for Gastrointestinal Biology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - M M Antunes
- Center for Gastrointestinal Biology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - H M Castro-Oliveira
- Center for Gastrointestinal Biology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - G B Menezes
- Center for Gastrointestinal Biology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - G M J Costa
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil.
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33
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Ye L, Huang W, Liu S, Cai S, Hong L, Xiao W, Thiele K, Zeng Y, Song M, Diao L. Impacts of Immunometabolism on Male Reproduction. Front Immunol 2021; 12:658432. [PMID: 34367130 PMCID: PMC8334851 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.658432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The physiological process of male reproduction relies on the orchestration of neuroendocrine, immune, and energy metabolism. Spermatogenesis is controlled by the hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular (HPT) axis, which modulates the production of gonadal steroid hormones in the testes. The immune cells and cytokines in testes provide a protective microenvironment for the development and maturation of germ cells. The metabolic cellular responses and processes in testes provide energy production and biosynthetic precursors to regulate germ cell development and control testicular immunity and inflammation. The metabolism of immune cells is crucial for both inflammatory and anti-inflammatory responses, which supposes to affect the spermatogenesis in testes. In this review, the role of immunometabolism in male reproduction will be highlighted. Obesity, metabolic dysfunction, such as type 2 diabetes mellitus, are well documented to impact male fertility; thus, their impacts on the immune cells distributed in testes will also be discussed. Finally, the potential significance of the medicine targeting the specific metabolic intermediates or immune metabolism checkpoints to improve male reproduction will also be reassessed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lijun Ye
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology of Peri-implantation, Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Wensi Huang
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology of Peri-implantation, Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Su Liu
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology of Peri-implantation, Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Songchen Cai
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology of Peri-implantation, Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Ling Hong
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology of Peri-implantation, Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Weiqiang Xiao
- Shenzhen Zhongshan Institute for Reproduction and Genetics, Fertility Center, Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Kristin Thiele
- Division of Experimental Feto-Maternal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Yong Zeng
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology of Peri-implantation, Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Mingzhe Song
- Shenzhen Zhongshan Institute for Reproduction and Genetics, Fertility Center, Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Lianghui Diao
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology of Peri-implantation, Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital, Shenzhen, China
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34
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Zhang Q, Cui Y, Yu S, He J, Pan Y, Bai Z. Expression characteristics of immune factors in the yak (Bos grunniens) testis. Reprod Domest Anim 2021; 56:1192-1199. [PMID: 34216048 DOI: 10.1111/rda.13986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2021] [Accepted: 07/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The goal of this study was to characterize and evaluate the main markers of macrophages, T lymphocytes, B lymphocytes and plasmocytes in the testis of juvenile and adult yaks by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and immunohistochemistry. Within the same age group, the mRNA expression of CD68 was always highest, followed by that of CD3ε, CD79α, IgG and IgA. Moreover, CD68, CD3, CD79α, IgA and IgG positive cells were all located in the testicular interstitial tissues of juvenile and adult yaks. In the same age group, the frequency of CD68 positive macrophages was higher than that of CD3 positive T lymphocytes, which was followed by that of CD79α positive B lymphocytes and IgA and IgG positive plasmocytes. No significant difference was observed between the B lymphocyte and plasmocyte frequencies in yak testes. Furthermore, CD68, CD3ε, CD79α, IgA and IgG mRNA expression levels and the frequencies of CD68, CD3, CD79α, IgA and IgG positive cells increased from juveniles to adults. Similarly, the frequencies of CD68, CD3, CD79α, IgA and IgG positive cells also increased with age. These results suggest that in the yak testis, the immune defence system against pathogens might primarily comprise macrophages and T lymphocytes in the testicular interstitial tissue. Moreover, the testicular immune environment may mature and expand to a fully functional state in adult yaks. The low frequencies of B lymphocyte and plasmocyte in yaks, differing from those in rodents and humans, might be related to the fact that yaks live in low-oxygen plateaus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Yan Cui
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Sijiu Yu
- Gansu Province Livestock Embryo Engineering Research Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Junfeng He
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Yangyang Pan
- Gansu Province Livestock Embryo Engineering Research Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Zhanchun Bai
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, China
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35
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Chen C, Gao D, Huo J, Qu R, Guo Y, Hu X, Luo L. Multiomics analysis reveals CT83 is the most specific gene for triple negative breast cancer and its hypomethylation is oncogenic in breast cancer. Sci Rep 2021; 11:12172. [PMID: 34108519 PMCID: PMC8190062 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-91290-4] [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: 01/16/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a highly aggressive breast cancer (BrC) subtype lacking effective therapeutic targets currently. The development of multi-omics databases facilities the identification of core genes for TNBC. Using TCGA-BRCA and METABRIC datasets, we identified CT83 as the most TNBC-specific gene. By further integrating FUSCC-TNBC, CCLE, TCGA pan-cancer, Expression Atlas, and Human Protein Atlas datasets, we found CT83 is frequently activated in TNBC and many other cancers, while it is always silenced in non-TNBC, 120 types of normal non-testis tissues, and 18 types of blood cells. Notably, according to the TCGA-BRCA methylation data, hypomethylation on chromosome X 116,463,019 to 116,463,039 is significantly correlated with the abnormal activation of CT83 in BrC. Using Kaplan-Meier Plotter, we demonstrated that activated CT83 is significantly associated with unfavorably overall survival in BrC and worse outcomes in some other cancers. Furthermore, GSEA suggested that the abnormal activation of CT83 in BrC is probably oncogenic by triggering the activation of cell cycle signaling. Meanwhile, we also noticed copy number variations and mutations of CT83 are quite rare in any cancer type, and its role in immune infiltration is not significant. In summary, we highlighted the significance of CT83 for TNBC and presented a comprehensive bioinformatics strategy for single-gene analysis in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Chen
- grid.452884.7Breast and Thyroid Center, The First People’s Hospital of Zunyi (The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University), Fenghuang N Rd, Zunyi, 563000 Guizhou China
| | - Dan Gao
- grid.452884.7Breast and Thyroid Center, The First People’s Hospital of Zunyi (The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University), Fenghuang N Rd, Zunyi, 563000 Guizhou China
| | - Jinlong Huo
- grid.452884.7Breast and Thyroid Center, The First People’s Hospital of Zunyi (The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University), Fenghuang N Rd, Zunyi, 563000 Guizhou China
| | - Rui Qu
- grid.452884.7Breast and Thyroid Center, The First People’s Hospital of Zunyi (The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University), Fenghuang N Rd, Zunyi, 563000 Guizhou China
| | - Youming Guo
- grid.452884.7Breast and Thyroid Center, The First People’s Hospital of Zunyi (The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University), Fenghuang N Rd, Zunyi, 563000 Guizhou China
| | - Xiaochi Hu
- grid.452884.7Breast and Thyroid Center, The First People’s Hospital of Zunyi (The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University), Fenghuang N Rd, Zunyi, 563000 Guizhou China
| | - Libo Luo
- grid.452884.7Breast and Thyroid Center, The First People’s Hospital of Zunyi (The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University), Fenghuang N Rd, Zunyi, 563000 Guizhou China
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Li T, Wang X, Luo R, An X, Zhang Y, Zhao X, Ma Y. Integrating miRNA and mRNA Profiling to Assess the Potential miRNA-mRNA Modules Linked With Testicular Immune Homeostasis in Sheep. Front Vet Sci 2021; 8:647153. [PMID: 34113669 PMCID: PMC8185144 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.647153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2020] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Beyond its well-known role in spermatogenesis and androgen production, mammalian testes are increasingly recognized as an immune-privileged organ for protecting autoantigenic germ cells, especially meiotic and postmeiotic germ cells, from systemic immune responses. Despite its importance, the molecular mechanisms underlying this regulation in mammals, including sheep, are far from known. In this study, we searched for the genes associated with testicular immune privilege and assessed their possible modulating mechanisms by analyzing systematic profiling of mRNAs and miRNAs on testicular tissues derived from prepubertal and postpubertal Tibetan sheep acquired by RNA sequencing. We identified 1,118 differentially expressed (DE) mRNAs associated with immunity (245 increased mRNAs and 873 decreased mRNAs) and 715 DE miRNAs (561 increased miRNAs and 154 decreased miRNAs) in postpubertal testes compared with prepuberty. qPCR validations for 20 DE mRNAs and 16 miRNAs showed that the RNA-seq results are reliable. By using Western blot, the postpubertal testes exhibited decreased protein abundance of CD19 and TGFBR2 (two proteins encoded by DE mRNAs) when compared with prepuberty, consistent with mRNA levels. The subsequent immunofluorescent staining showed that the positive signals for the CD19 protein were observed mainly in Sertoli cells and the basement membrane of pre- and postpubertal testes, as well as the prepubertal testicular vascular endothelium. The TGFBR2 protein was found mostly in interstitial cells and germ cells of pre- and postpubertal testes. Functional enrichment analysis indicated that DE mRNAs were mainly enriched in biological processes or pathways strongly associated with the blood–testis barrier (BTB) function. Many decreased mRNAs with low expression abundance were significantly enriched in pathways related to immune response. Also, multiple key miRNA-target negative correlation regulatory networks were subsequently established. Furthermore, we verified the target associations between either oar-miR-29b or oar-miR-1185-3p and ITGB1 by dual-luciferase reporter assay. Finally, a putative schematic model of the miRNA-mRNA-pathway network mediated by immune homeostasis-related genes was proposed to show their potential regulatory roles in sheep testicular privilege. Taken together, we conclude that many immune-related genes identified in this study are negatively regulated by potential miRNAs to participate in the homeostatic regulation of testicular immune privilege of sheep by sustaining BTB function and inhibiting immune responses under normal physiological conditions. This work offers the first global view of the expression profiles of miRNAs/mRNAs involved in sheep testicular immune privilege and how the genes potentially contribute to immune-homeostatic maintenance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taotao Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, China.,Sheep Breeding Biotechnology Engineering Laboratory of Gansu Province, Minqin, China
| | - Xia Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Ruirui Luo
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Xuejiao An
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Yong Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Xingxu Zhao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Youji Ma
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, China.,Sheep Breeding Biotechnology Engineering Laboratory of Gansu Province, Minqin, China
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37
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Heinrich A, Potter SJ, Guo L, Ratner N, DeFalco T. Distinct Roles for Rac1 in Sertoli Cell Function during Testicular Development and Spermatogenesis. Cell Rep 2021; 31:107513. [PMID: 32294451 PMCID: PMC7213061 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2020.03.077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2019] [Revised: 01/16/2020] [Accepted: 03/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Sertoli cells are supporting cells of the testicular seminiferous tubules, which provide a nurturing environment for spermatogenesis. Adult Sertoli cells are polarized so that they can simultaneously support earlier-stage spermatogenic cells (e.g., spermatogonia) basally and later-stage cells (e.g., spermatids) apically. To test the consequences of disrupting cell polarity in Sertoli cells, we perform a Sertoli-specific conditional deletion of Rac1, which encodes a Rho GTPase required for apicobasal cell polarity. Rac1 conditional knockout adults exhibit spermatogenic arrest at the round spermatid stage, with severe disruption of Sertoli cell polarity, and show increased germline and Sertoli cell apoptosis. Thus, Sertoli Rac1 function is critical for the progression of spermatogenesis but, surprisingly, is dispensable for fetal testicular development, adult maintenance of undifferentiated spermatogonia, and meiotic entry. Our data indicate that Sertoli Rac1 function is required only for certain aspects of spermatogenesis and reveal that there are distinct requirements for cell polarity during cellular differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Heinrich
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Sarah J Potter
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Li Guo
- Division of Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Nancy Ratner
- Division of Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA; Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA
| | - Tony DeFalco
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA; Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA.
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38
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Fan C, Qu H, Wang X, Sobhani N, Wang L, Liu S, Xiong W, Zeng Z, Li Y. Cancer/testis antigens: from serology to mRNA cancer vaccine. Semin Cancer Biol 2021; 76:218-231. [PMID: 33910064 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2021.04.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Revised: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Cancer/testis antigens (CTAs) are a group of tumor antigens expressed in numerous cancer tissues, as well as in the testis and placental tissues. There are over 200 CTAs supported by serology and expression data. The expression patterns of CTAs reflect the similarities between the processes of gametogenesis and tumorigenesis. It is notable that CTAs are highly expressed in three types of cancers (lung cancer, bladder cancer, and skin cancer), all of which have a metal etiology. Here, we review the expression, regulation, and function of CTAs and their translational prospects as cancer biomarkers and treatment targets. Many CTAs are highly immunogenic, tissue-specific, and frequently expressed in cancer tissues but not under physiological conditions, rendering them promising candidates for cancer detection. Some CTAs are associated with clinical outcomes, so they may serve as prognostic biomarkers. A small number of CTAs are membrane-bound, making them ideal targets for chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells. Mounting evidence suggests that CTAs induce humoral or cellular immune responses, providing cancer immunotherapeutic opportunities for T-cell receptors (TCRs), CAR T cell, antibody-based therapy and peptide- or mRNA-based vaccines. Indeed, CTAs are the dominating non-mutated targets in mRNA cancer vaccine development. Clinical trials on CTA TCR and vaccines have shown effectiveness, safety, and tolerance, but these successes are limited to a small number of patients. In-depth studies on CTA expression and function are needed to improve CTA-based immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunmei Fan
- The Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute and School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China; Section of Epidemiology and Population Science, Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, United States
| | - Hongke Qu
- The Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute and School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Xu Wang
- Section of Epidemiology and Population Science, Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, United States
| | - Navid Sobhani
- Section of Epidemiology and Population Science, Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, United States
| | - Leiming Wang
- Section of Epidemiology and Population Science, Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, United States
| | - Shuanglin Liu
- Section of Epidemiology and Population Science, Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, United States
| | - Wei Xiong
- The Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute and School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Zhaoyang Zeng
- The Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute and School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.
| | - Yong Li
- Section of Epidemiology and Population Science, Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, United States.
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Trace the profile and function of circular RNAs in Sertoli cell only syndrome. Genomics 2021; 113:1845-1854. [PMID: 33865957 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygeno.2021.04.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2020] [Revised: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 04/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Studies increasingly show the involvement of circular RNAs (circRNAs) in several diseases. This study aims to explore the circRNA expression pattern in the testicular tissues of patients with Sertoli only cell syndrome (SCOS) and their potential functions. High throughput circRNA microarray analysis indicated that 399 circRNAs were upregulated and 1195 were down-regulated (fold change >2, P < 0.05) in SCOS relative to obstructive azoospermia (OA). The hsa_circRNA_101222, hsa_circRNA_001387, hsa_circRNA_001153, hsa_circRNA_101373 and hsa_circRNA_103864 were validated by qRT-PCR. Furthermore, the hosting genes of the differentially expressed circRNAs (DEcircRNAs) were enriched in biological processes related to cell cycle and intercellular communication. Also, the overlapping genes between the hosting genes of SCOS-related DEcircRNAs and those highly expressed in Sertoli cells of non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) were enriched in immune cell development and cell communication. Taken together, aberrantly expressed circRNAs likely mediate SCOS development by regulating the function of Sertoli cells and the spermatogenic microenvironment.
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40
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Li T, Luo R, Wang X, Wang H, Zhao X, Guo Y, Jiang H, Ma Y. Unraveling Stage-Dependent Expression Patterns of Circular RNAs and Their Related ceRNA Modulation in Ovine Postnatal Testis Development. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:627439. [PMID: 33816472 PMCID: PMC8017185 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.627439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2020] [Accepted: 03/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have been shown to function in the reproductive systems including testis. However, their expression, as well as function in testicular development of sheep remain undefined. Herein, we performed RNA sequencing to reveal circRNA temporal expression patterns in testes of Tibetan sheep from different stages of maturation (3M, 3-month-old; 1Y, 1-year-old; 3Y, 3-year-old). A total of 3,982, 414, and 4,060 differentially expressed (DE) circRNAs were uncovered from 3M vs 1Y, 1Y vs 3Y, and 3M vs 3Y, respectively. Functional enrichment assessment indicated that the source genes of DE circRNAs were primarily engaged in spermatogenesis and testicular immune privilege including blood-testis barrier (BTB). We subsequently constructed the core circRNA-miRNA-mRNA interaction network for genes related to testicular function, such as spermatogenesis, germ cell development, BTB, and cell cycle/meiosis. Furthermore, we validated the target associations between either circ_024949, circ_026259 or IGF1, and oar-miR-29b in this network, and revealed their similar expression signatures in developmental testes that they were extensively expressed in germ cells, Leydig cells, and Sertoli cells, thus suggesting their broad functions in the functional maintenance of Leydig cells and Sertoli cells, as well as the development and maturation of male germ cells. Meanwhile, circ_026259 was shown to promote IGF1 expression through inhibition of oar-miR-29b in sheep Sertoli cells. This work gives the first global view for the expression and regulation of circRNAs in sheep testis, which will be helpful for providing new insights into the molecular mechanism of ovine testis function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taotao Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Ruirui Luo
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Xia Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Huihui Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Xingxu Zhao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Yunxia Guo
- College of Life Science, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, China
| | - Haitao Jiang
- Wenshang County Inspection and Testing Center, Jining, China
| | - Youji Ma
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, China
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Rokade S, Upadhya M, Bhat DS, Subhedar N, Yajnik CS, Ghose A, Rath S, Bal V. Transient systemic inflammation in adult male mice results in underweight progeny. Am J Reprod Immunol 2021; 86:e13401. [PMID: 33576153 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM While the testes represent an immune-privileged organ, there is evidence that systemic inflammation is accompanied by local inflammatory responses. We therefore examined whether transient systemic inflammation caused any inflammatory and functional consequences in murine testes. METHOD OF STUDY Using a single systemic administration of Toll-like receptor (TLR) agonists [lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or peptidoglycan (PG) or polyinosinic-polycytidylic acid (polyIC)] in young adult male mice, we assessed testicular immune-inflammatory landscape and reproductive functionality. RESULTS Our findings demonstrated a significant induction of testicular TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6 transcripts within 24 h of TLR agonist injection. By day 6, these cytokine levels returned to baseline. While there was no change in caudal sperm counts at early time points, eight weeks later, twofold decrease in sperm count and reduced testicular testosterone levels were evident. When these mice were subjected to mating studies, no differences in mating efficiencies or litter sizes were observed compared with controls. Nonetheless, the neonatal weights of progeny from LPS/PG/polyIC-treated sires were significantly lower than controls. Postnatal weight gain up to three weeks was also slower in the progeny of LPS/polyIC-treated sires. Placental weights at 17.5 days post-coitum were significantly lower in females mated to LPS- and polyIC-treated males. Given this likelihood of an epigenetic effect, we found lower testicular levels of histone methyltransferase enzyme, mixed-lineage leukaemia-1, in mice given LPS/PG/polyIC 8 weeks earlier. CONCLUSION Exposure to transient systemic inflammation leads to transient local inflammation in the testes, with persistent sperm-mediated consequences for foetal development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sushama Rokade
- Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Pune, India
| | - Manoj Upadhya
- Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Pune, India
| | | | | | | | - Aurnab Ghose
- Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Pune, India
| | - Satyajit Rath
- Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Pune, India.,KEM Hospital Research Centre, Pune, India
| | - Vineeta Bal
- Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Pune, India
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42
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Gualdoni GS, Jacobo PV, Sobarzo CM, Pérez CV, Durand LAH, Theas MS, Lustig L, Guazzone VA. Relevance of angiogenesis in autoimmune testis inflammation. Mol Hum Reprod 2021; 27:gaaa073. [PMID: 33313783 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaaa073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2020] [Revised: 10/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Experimental autoimmune orchitis (EAO) is a useful model to study organ-specific autoimmunity and chronic testicular inflammation. This model reflects testicular pathological changes reported in immunological infertility in men. Progression of EAO in rodents is associated with a significantly increased percentage of testicular endothelial cells and interstitial testicular blood vessels, indicating an ongoing angiogenic process. Vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA), the main regulator of physiological and pathological angiogenesis, can stimulate endothelial cell proliferation, chemotaxis and vascular permeability. The aim of this study was to explore the role of VEGFA in the pathogenesis of testicular inflammation. Our results found VEGFA expression in Leydig cells, endothelial cells and macrophages in testis of rats with autoimmune orchitis. VEGFA level was significantly higher in testicular fluid and serum of rats at the end of the immunization period, preceding testicular damage. VEGF receptor (VEGFR) 1 is expressed mainly in testicular endothelial cells, whereas VEGFR2 was detected in germ cells and vascular smooth muscle cells. Both receptors were expressed in testicular interstitial cells. VEGFR2 increased after the immunization period in the testicular interstitium and VEGFR1 was downregulated in EAO testis. In-vivo-specific VEGFA inhibition by Bevacizumab prevented the increase in blood vessel number and reduced EAO incidence and severity. Our results unveil relevance of VEGFA-VEGFR axis during orchitis development, suggesting that VEGFA might be an early marker of testicular inflammation and Bevacizumab a therapeutic tool for treatment of testicular inflammation associated with subfertility and infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gisela Soledad Gualdoni
- Departamento de Biología Celular e Histología/Unidad Académica II, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires C1121ABG, Argentina
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), Facultad de Medicina, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires C1121ABG, Argentina
| | - Patricia Verónica Jacobo
- Departamento de Biología Celular e Histología/Unidad Académica II, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires C1121ABG, Argentina
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), Facultad de Medicina, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires C1121ABG, Argentina
| | - Cristian Marcelo Sobarzo
- Departamento de Biología Celular e Histología/Unidad Académica II, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires C1121ABG, Argentina
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), Facultad de Medicina, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires C1121ABG, Argentina
| | - Cecilia Valeria Pérez
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), Facultad de Medicina, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires C1121ABG, Argentina
| | - Luis Alberto Haro Durand
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME), CONICET, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires C1428ADN, Argentina
| | - María Susana Theas
- Departamento de Biología Celular e Histología/Unidad Académica II, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires C1121ABG, Argentina
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), Facultad de Medicina, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires C1121ABG, Argentina
| | - Livia Lustig
- Departamento de Biología Celular e Histología/Unidad Académica II, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires C1121ABG, Argentina
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), Facultad de Medicina, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires C1121ABG, Argentina
| | - Vanesa Anabella Guazzone
- Departamento de Biología Celular e Histología/Unidad Académica II, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires C1121ABG, Argentina
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), Facultad de Medicina, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires C1121ABG, Argentina
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43
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Park YJ, Pang MG. Mitochondrial Functionality in Male Fertility: From Spermatogenesis to Fertilization. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 10:antiox10010098. [PMID: 33445610 PMCID: PMC7826524 DOI: 10.3390/antiox10010098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2020] [Revised: 01/08/2021] [Accepted: 01/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Mitochondria are structurally and functionally distinct organelles that produce adenosine triphosphate (ATP) through oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS), to provide energy to spermatozoa. They can also produce reactive oxidation species (ROS). While a moderate concentration of ROS is critical for tyrosine phosphorylation in cholesterol efflux, sperm–egg interaction, and fertilization, excessive ROS generation is associated with male infertility. Moreover, mitochondria participate in diverse processes ranging from spermatogenesis to fertilization to regulate male fertility. This review aimed to summarize the roles of mitochondria in male fertility depending on the sperm developmental stage (from male reproductive tract to female reproductive tract). Moreover, mitochondria are also involved in testosterone production, regulation of proton secretion into the lumen to maintain an acidic condition in the epididymis, and sperm DNA condensation during epididymal maturation. We also established the new signaling pathway using previous proteomic data associated with male fertility, to understand the overall role of mitochondria in male fertility. The pathway revealed that male infertility is associated with a loss of mitochondrial proteins in spermatozoa, which induces low sperm motility, reduces OXPHOS activity, and results in male infertility.
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44
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Kaur G, Wright K, Verma S, Haynes A, Dufour JM. The Good, the Bad and the Ugly of Testicular Immune Regulation: A Delicate Balance Between Immune Function and Immune Privilege. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2021; 1288:21-47. [PMID: 34453730 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-77779-1_2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
The testis is one of several immune privilege sites. These sites are necessary to decrease inflammation and immune responses that could be damaging to the host. For example, inflammation in the brain, eye or placenta could result in loss of cognitive function, vision or rejection of the semi-allogeneic fetus, respectively. In the testis, immune privilege is "good" as it is necessary for protection of the developing auto-immunogenic germ cells. However, there is also a downside or "bad" part of immune privilege, where pathogens and cancers can take advantage of this privilege and persist in the testis as a sanctuary site. Even worse, the "ugly" of privilege is how re-emerging viruses, such as Ebola and Zika viruses, can establish persistence in the testes and be sexually transmitted even months after they have been cleared from the bloodstream. In this review, we will discuss the delicate balance within the testis that provides immune privilege to protect the germ cells while still allowing for immune function to fight off pathogens and tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gurvinder Kaur
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, USA
| | - Kandis Wright
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, USA
| | - Saguna Verma
- Department of Tropical Medicine, Medical Microbiology, and Pharmacology, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, HI, USA
| | - Allan Haynes
- Department of Urology, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, USA
| | - Jannette M Dufour
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, USA.
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45
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Neto FTL, Flannigan R, Goldstein M. Regulation of Human Spermatogenesis. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2021; 1288:255-286. [PMID: 34453741 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-77779-1_13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Human spermatogenesis (HS) is an intricate network of sequential processes responsible for the production of the male gamete, the spermatozoon. These processes take place in the seminiferous tubules (ST) of the testis, which are small tubular structures considered the functional units of the testes. Each human testicle contains approximately 600-1200 STs [1], and are capable of producing up to 275 million spermatozoa per day [2].
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ryan Flannigan
- Department of Urology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA.,University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Marc Goldstein
- Department of Urology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
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46
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Payne K, Kenny P, Scovell JM, Khodamoradi K, Ramasamy R. Twenty-First Century Viral Pandemics: A Literature Review of Sexual Transmission and Fertility Implications in Men. Sex Med Rev 2020; 8:518-530. [PMID: 32713674 PMCID: PMC7378513 DOI: 10.1016/j.sxmr.2020.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2020] [Revised: 06/11/2020] [Accepted: 06/19/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The 21st century has seen a series of viral pandemics that have collectively infected millions of individuals. To understand factors that may contribute to viral spread and address long-term health sequelae for survivors, it is important to review evidence regarding viral presence in semen, sexual transmission potential, and possible effects on fertility. AIM To review the current literature regarding the sexual transmissibility of recent viral pandemics and their effects on semen parameters and fertility. We review evidence for the following viruses: Ebola, Zika, West Nile, pandemic influenza, severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), and SARS-corona virus-2 (SARS-CoV-2). METHODS A literature search was conducted to identify relevant studies. Titles and abstracts were reviewed for relevance. References from identified articles were searched and included, if appropriate. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES The main outcome measure of this study was reviewing of peer-reviewed literature. RESULTS Both the Ebola virus and Zika virus are present in semen, but only the Zika virus shows consistent evidence of sexual transmission. Current evidence does not support the presence of the West Nile virus, pandemic influenza, SARS, and SARS-CoV-2 in semen. The Zika virus appears to alter semen parameters in a way that diminishes fertility, but the effect is likely time limited. The West Nile virus and SARS have been associated with orchitis in a small number of case reports. Viruses that cause febrile illness, such as pandemic influenza, SARS, and SARS-CoV-2, are associated with decreased sperm count and motility and abnormal morphology. SARS and SARS-CoV-2 may interact with angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 receptors present in the testes, which could impact spermatogenesis. CONCLUSIONS We have reported the presence in semen, sexual transmission potential, and fertility side effects of recent viral pandemics. Overall, semen studies and fertility effects are highly understudied in viral pandemics, and rigorous study on these topics should be undertaken as novel pandemics emerge. Payne K, Kenny P, Scovell JM, et al. Twenty-First Century Viral Pandemics: A Literature Review of Sexual Transmission and Fertility Implications for Men. Sex Med Rev 2020;8:518-530.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly Payne
- Scott Department of Urology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Peter Kenny
- Scott Department of Urology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Jason M Scovell
- Scott Department of Urology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA; Department of Urology, Glickman Urological and Kidney Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Kajal Khodamoradi
- Department of Urology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Ranjith Ramasamy
- Department of Urology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA.
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47
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Mendelsohn AC, Sanmarco LM, Spallanzani RG, Brown D, Quintana FJ, Breton S, Battistone MA. From initial segment to cauda: a regional characterization of mouse epididymal CD11c + mononuclear phagocytes based on immune phenotype and function. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2020; 319:C997-C1010. [PMID: 32991210 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00392.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Successful sperm maturation and storage rely on a unique immunological balance that protects the male reproductive organs from invading pathogens and spermatozoa from a destructive autoimmune response. We previously characterized one subset of mononuclear phagocytes (MPs) in the murine epididymis, CX3CR1+ cells, emphasizing their different functional properties. This population partially overlaps with another subset of understudied heterogeneous MPs, the CD11c+ cells. In the present study, we analyzed the CD11c+ MPs for their immune phenotype, morphology, and antigen capturing and presenting abilities. Epididymides from CD11c-EYFP mice, which express enhanced yellow fluorescent protein (EYFP) in CD11c+ MPs, were divided into initial segment (IS), caput/corpus, and cauda regions. Flow cytometry analysis showed that CD11c+ MPs with a macrophage phenotype (CD64+ and F4/80+) were the most abundant in the IS, whereas those with a dendritic cell signature [CD64- major histocompatibility complex class II (MHCII)+] were more frequent in the cauda. Immunofluorescence revealed morphological and phenotypic differences between CD11c+ MPs in the regions examined. To assess the ability of CD11c+ cells to take up antigens, CD11c-EYFP mice were injected intravenously with ovalbumin. In the IS, MPs expressing macrophage markers were most active in taking up the antigens. A functional antigen-presenting coculture study was performed, whereby CD4+ T cells were activated after ovalbumin presentation by CD11c+ epididymal MPs. The results demonstrated that CD11c+ MPs in all regions were capable of capturing and presenting antigens. Together, this study defines a marked regional variation in epididymal antigen-presenting cells that could help us understand fertility and contraception but also has larger implications in inflammation and disease pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- A C Mendelsohn
- Program in Membrane Biology, Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - L M Sanmarco
- Ann Romney Center for Neurological Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - R G Spallanzani
- Department of Immunology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - D Brown
- Program in Membrane Biology, Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - F J Quintana
- Ann Romney Center for Neurological Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.,Broad Institute of Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - S Breton
- Program in Membrane Biology, Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.,Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproduction, Université Laval, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec Research Center, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
| | - M A Battistone
- Program in Membrane Biology, Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
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48
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Bryan ER, Kollipara A, Trim LK, Armitage CW, Carey AJ, Mihalas B, Redgrove KA, McLaughlin EA, Beagley KW. Hematogenous dissemination of Chlamydia muridarum from the urethra in macrophages causes testicular infection and sperm DNA damage†. Biol Reprod 2020; 101:748-759. [PMID: 31373361 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioz146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2018] [Revised: 05/27/2019] [Accepted: 07/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The incidence of Chlamydia infection, in both females and males, is increasing worldwide. Male infections have been associated clinically with urethritis, epididymitis, and orchitis, believed to be caused by ascending infection, although the impact of infection on male fertility remains controversial. Using a mouse model of male chlamydial infection, we show that all the major testicular cell populations, germ cells, Sertoli cells, Leydig cells, and testicular macrophages can be productively infected. Furthermore, sperm isolated from vas deferens of infected mice also had increased levels of DNA damage as early as 4 weeks post-infection. Bilateral vasectomy, prior to infection, did not affect the chlamydial load recovered from testes at 2, 4, and 8 weeks post-infection, and Chlamydia-infected macrophages were detectable in blood and the testes as soon as 3 days post-infection. Partial depletion of macrophages with clodronate liposomes significantly reduced the testicular chlamydial burden, consistent with a hematogenous route of infection, with Chlamydia transported to the testes in infected macrophages. These data suggest that macrophages serve as Trojan horses, transporting Chlamydia from the penile urethra to the testes within 3 days of infection, bypassing the entire male reproductive tract. In the testes, infected macrophages likely transfer infection to Leydig, Sertoli, and germ cells, causing sperm DNA damage and impaired spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily R Bryan
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Institute of Health & Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Herston, QLD, Australia
| | - Avinash Kollipara
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Institute of Health & Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Herston, QLD, Australia
| | - Logan K Trim
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Institute of Health & Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Herston, QLD, Australia
| | - Charles W Armitage
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Institute of Health & Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Herston, QLD, Australia
| | - Alison J Carey
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Institute of Health & Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Herston, QLD, Australia
| | - Bettina Mihalas
- School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - Kate A Redgrove
- School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - Eileen A McLaughlin
- School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia.,Science and Technology Office, University of Canberra, Bruce, ACT, Australia
| | - Kenneth W Beagley
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Institute of Health & Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Herston, QLD, Australia
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49
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Indumathy S, Pueschl D, Klein B, Fietz D, Bergmann M, Schuppe HC, Da Silva N, Loveland BE, Hickey MJ, Hedger MP, Loveland KL. Testicular immune cell populations and macrophage polarisation in adult male mice and the influence of altered activin A levels. J Reprod Immunol 2020; 142:103204. [PMID: 33130539 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2020.103204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Revised: 07/28/2020] [Accepted: 09/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Detailed morphological characterization of testicular leukocytes in the adult CX3CR1 gfp/+ transgenic mouse identified two distinct CX3CR1 + mononuclear phagocyte (macrophage and dendritic cell) populations: stellate/dendriform cells opposed to the seminiferous tubules (peritubular), and polygonal cells associated with Leydig cells (interstitial). Using confocal microscopy combined with stereological enumeration of CX3CR1gfp/+ cells established that there were twice as many interstitial cells (68%) as peritubular cells (32%). Flow cytometric analyses of interstitial cells from mechanically-dissociated testes identified multiple mononuclear phagocyte subsets based on surface marker expression (CX3CR1, F4/80, CD11c). These cells comprised 80% of total intratesticular leukocytes, as identified by CD45 expression. The remaining leukocytes were CD3+ (T lymphocytes) and NK1.1+ (natural killer cells). Functional phenotype assessment using CD206 (an anti-inflammatory/M2 marker) and MHC class II (an activation marker) identified a potentially tolerogenic CD206+MHCII+ sub-population (12% of total CD45+ cells). Rare testicular subsets of CX3CR1 +CD11c+F4/80+ (4.3%) mononuclear phagocytes and CD3+NK1.1+ (3.1%) lymphocytes were also identified for the first time. In order to examine the potential for the immunoregulatory cytokine, activin A to modulate testicular immune cell populations, testes from adult mice with reduced activin A (Inhba+/-) or elevated activin A (Inha+/-) were assessed using flow cytometry. Although the proportion of F4/80+CD11b+ leukocytes (macrophages) was not affected, the frequency of CD206+MHCII+cells was significantly lower and CD206+MHCII- correspondingly higher in Inha+/- testes. This shift in expression of MHCII in CD206+ macrophages indicates that changes in circulating and/or local activin A influence resident macrophage activation and phenotype and, therefore, the immunological environment of the testis.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Indumathy
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Victoria, Australia; Department of Veterinary Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Justus-Liebig-University, Giessen, Germany; Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, Victoria, Australia.
| | - D Pueschl
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Victoria, Australia; Department of Veterinary Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Justus-Liebig-University, Giessen, Germany; Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, Victoria, Australia
| | - B Klein
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Victoria, Australia; Department of Veterinary Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Justus-Liebig-University, Giessen, Germany
| | - D Fietz
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Justus-Liebig-University, Giessen, Germany
| | - M Bergmann
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Justus-Liebig-University, Giessen, Germany
| | - H-C Schuppe
- Clinic of Urology, Pediatric Urology and Andrology, Justus-Liebig-University, Giessen, Germany
| | - N Da Silva
- Ohana Biosciences, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States
| | | | - M J Hickey
- Centre for Inflammatory Diseases, Department of Medicine, Monash Medical Centre, Monash University, Victoria, Australia
| | - M P Hedger
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Victoria, Australia; Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, Victoria, Australia
| | - K L Loveland
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Victoria, Australia; Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, Victoria, Australia.
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50
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Chen X, Zheng Y, Li X, Gao Q, Feng T, Zhang P, Liao M, Tian X, Lu H, Zeng W. Profiling of miRNAs in porcine Sertoli cells. J Anim Sci Biotechnol 2020; 11:85. [PMID: 32821380 PMCID: PMC7429792 DOI: 10.1186/s40104-020-00487-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2020] [Accepted: 06/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Sertoli cells (SCs) create a specialized environment to support and dictate spermatogenesis. MicroRNAs (miRNAs), a kind of ~ 22 nt small noncoding RNAs, have been reported to be highly abundant in mouse SCs and play critical roles in spermatogenesis. However, the miRNAs of porcine SCs remain largely unknown. Methods We isolated porcine SCs and conducted small RNA sequencing. By comparing miRNAs in germ cells, we systematically analyzed the miRNA expression pattern of porcine SCs. We screened the highly enriched SC miRNAs and predicted their functions by Gene Ontology analysis. The dual luciferase assay was used to elucidate the regulation of tumor necrosis factor receptor (TNFR)-associated factor 3 (TRAF3) by ssc-miR-149. Results The analysis showed that 18 miRNAs were highly expressed in SCs and 15 miRNAs were highly expressed in germ cells. These miRNAs were predicted to mediate SC and germ cell functions. In addition, ssc-miR-149 played critical roles in SCs by targeting TRAF3. Conclusion Our findings provide novel insights into the miRNA expression pattern and their regulatory roles of porcine SCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoxu Chen
- College of Biological Science and Engineering, Shaanxi University of Technology, Hanzhong, 723001 China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100 Shaanxi China
| | - Yi Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100 Shaanxi China
| | - Xueliang Li
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100 Shaanxi China
| | - Qiang Gao
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100 Shaanxi China
| | - Tongying Feng
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100 Shaanxi China
| | - Pengfei Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100 Shaanxi China
| | - Mingzhi Liao
- College of Life Science, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100 Shaanxi China
| | - Xiu'e Tian
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100 Shaanxi China
| | - Hongzhao Lu
- College of Biological Science and Engineering, Shaanxi University of Technology, Hanzhong, 723001 China
| | - Wenxian Zeng
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100 Shaanxi China
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