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Elsheikh AA, Shalaby AM, Alabiad MA, Abd-Almotaleb NA, Alorini M, Alnasser SM, Elhasadi I, El-Nagdy SA. Trigonelline Chloride Ameliorated Triphenyltin-Induced Testicular Autophagy, Inflammation, and Apoptosis: Role of Recovery. MICROSCOPY AND MICROANALYSIS : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF MICROSCOPY SOCIETY OF AMERICA, MICROBEAM ANALYSIS SOCIETY, MICROSCOPICAL SOCIETY OF CANADA 2024; 30:133-150. [PMID: 38156731 DOI: 10.1093/micmic/ozad137] [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: 08/23/2023] [Revised: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Triphenyltin chloride (TPT-Cl) is an organometallic organotin. This study aimed to investigate the role of trigonelline (TG) along with the impact of TPT withdrawal on the testicular toxicity induced by TPT-Cl. Thirty-six adult male albino rats were divided into control, TG (40 mg/kg/day), TPT-Cl (0.5 mg/kg/day), TG + TPT-Cl, and recovery groups. Animals were daily gavaged for 12 weeks. Both TG and TPT-Cl withdrawal improved TPT-Cl-induced testicular toxicity features involving testis and relative testis weight reduction, luteinizing hormone, follicular stimulating hormone, and sex hormone-binding globulin elevation, reduction of inhibin B, free testosterone levels, and sperm count reduction with increased abnormal sperm forms. Moreover, both TG and TPT-Cl withdrawal reduced inflammatory activin A, follistatin, tumor necrosis factor α, interleukin-1β, and proapoptotic Bax and elevated antiapoptotic Bcl2 in testicular tissues mediated by TPT-Cl. TG and TPT-Cl withdrawal restored the excessive autophagy triggered by TPT-Cl via elevation of mTOR, AKT, PI3K, and P62/SQSTM1 and reduction of AMPK, ULK1, Beclin1, and LC3 mRNA gene expressions and regained the deteriorated testicular structure. In conclusion, TG and TPT-Cl withdrawal had an ameliorative role in partially reversing TPT-Cl-induced testicular toxicity. However, the findings indicated that the use of TG as an adjunctive factor is more favorable than TPT-Cl withdrawal, suggesting the capability of the testis for partial self-improvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arwa A Elsheikh
- Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44519, Egypt
| | - Amany Mohamed Shalaby
- Histology and Cell Biology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta 31527, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Ali Alabiad
- Pathology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44519, Egypt
| | - Noha Ali Abd-Almotaleb
- Anatomy and Embryology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44519, Egypt
| | - Mohammed Alorini
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Unaizah College of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Unaizah 51911, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sulaiman Mohammed Alnasser
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Unaizah College of Pharmacy, Qassim University, Buraydah 51911, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ibtesam Elhasadi
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Benghazi, Benghazi, Libya
| | - Samah A El-Nagdy
- Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44519, Egypt
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Begum RF, Mohan S. Pharmacological investigation of vitamin E with combined oral contraceptives on INHBA gene against PCOS that intricate through melatonin PKC pathway. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2023; 69:450-464. [PMID: 37962399 DOI: 10.1080/19396368.2023.2276082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/22/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
The most prevalent endocrine and metabolic condition in women of reproductive age are polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) with significant risk factors such as circadian rhythm and melatonin disruption. The aim of this study is to assess the effect of vitamin E in combination with a combined oral contraceptive (COC) on continuous light-induced PCOS using hormonal measures, oxidative stress (OS) indicators, and the inhibin beta-A (INHBA) gene, which targets the melatonin protein kinase C (PKC) pathway. An in silico technique anticipated INHBA's binding affinity for vitamin E and COC. For the in vivo investigation (IAEC/240/2021), female SD rats were divided into six groups and subjected to a 16-week induction period, followed by a 2-month test drug treatment with drospirenone (DRSP) as a standard. Serum testosterone, FSH, melatonin, and OS were calculated as hormonal markers. The expression of the INHBA gene was studied to see if it could be linked to the circadian rhythm and OS via the melatonin PKC pathway. According to the in silico study, vitamin E and DRSP had higher binding energy for the INHBA (-8.6 kcal/mol and -8.4 kcal/mol, respectively). When compared to the control group, in vivo results showed a substantial decrease in testosterone levels (p = .05), as well as changes in FSH (p = .78) and melatonin (p = .13). IHNBA gene expression has also dramatically increased, stimulating FSH production in the pituitary gland. Vitamin E and COC concomitantly are beneficial against PCOS because it modulates OS, which in turn influences circadian rhythm and the melatonin PKC pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rukaiah Fatma Begum
- Department of Pharmacology, SRM College of Pharmacy, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur, India
| | - Sumithra Mohan
- Department of Pharmacology, SRM College of Pharmacy, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur, India
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Perez-Garcia LF, Röder E, Krijthe BP, Kranenburg-van Koppen LJ, van Adrichem R, Zirkzee E, Griffioen PH, Peeters K, Lin M, Struys EA, Jansen G, van Doorn MB, de Jonge R, Dohle GR, Dolhain RJ. Is methotrexate safe for men with an immune-mediated inflammatory disease and an active desire to become a father? Results of a prospective cohort study (iFAME-MTX). Ann Rheum Dis 2023; 82:1068-1075. [PMID: 37263756 PMCID: PMC10359513 DOI: 10.1136/ard-2023-224032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Current scientific evidence guiding the decision whether men with an active desire to become a father should be treated with methotrexate (MTX) remains controversial. We aimed to prospectively evaluate the testicular toxicity profile of MTX focusing on several markers of male fertility, including semen parameters and sperm DNA fragmentation index (sDFI). As a secondary outcome, we aimed to evaluate whether MTX-polyglutamates can be detected in spermatozoa and seminal plasma and to evaluate the enzymatic activity in spermatozoa of folylpolyglutamate synthetase (FPGS). METHODS In a prospective cohort study, men ≥18 years who started therapy with MTX were invited to participate (MTX-starters). Participants were instructed to produce two semen samples (a pre-exposure and a post-exposure sample after 13 weeks). Healthy men ≥18 years were invited to participate as controls. Conventional semen analyses, male reproductive endocrine axis and sDFI were compared between groups. FPGS enzymatic activity and MTX-PG1-5 concentrations were determined by mass spectrometry analytical methods. RESULTS In total, 20 MTX-starters and 25 controls were included. The pre-exposure and postexposure semen parameters of MTX-starters were not statistically significant different. Compared with healthy controls, the conventional semen parameters and the sDFI of MTX-starters were not statistically significant different. These data were corroborated by the marginal accumulation of MTX-PGs in spermatozoa, consistent with the very low FPGS enzymatic activity associated with the expression of an alternative FPGS splice-variant. DISCUSSION Treatment with MTX is not associated with testicular toxicity, consistent with the very low concentration of intracellular MTX-PG. Therefore, therapy with MTX can be safely started or continued in men and with a wish to become a father.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Esther Röder
- Department of Rheumatology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Bouwe P Krijthe
- Department of Rheumatology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Rheumatology, Sint Franciscus Vlietland Group, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Laura Jc Kranenburg-van Koppen
- Department of Rheumatology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Rheumatology, IJsselland Hospital, Capelle aan den IJssel, Netherlands
| | | | - Els Zirkzee
- Department of Rheumatology, Maasstad Ziekenhuis, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Pieter H Griffioen
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Kris Peeters
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, University of Antwerp, Antwerpen, Belgium
| | - Marry Lin
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Eduard A Struys
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Gerrit Jansen
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, location VUmc, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | | | - Robert de Jonge
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Gert R Dohle
- Department of Urology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
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Chuphal B, Sathoria P, Rai U, Roy B. Crosstalk between reproductive and immune systems: the teleostean perspective. JOURNAL OF FISH BIOLOGY 2023; 102:302-316. [PMID: 36477945 DOI: 10.1111/jfb.15284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The bidirectional interaction between the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis and the immune system plays a crucial role in the adaptation of an organism to its environment, its survival and the continuance of a species. Nonetheless, very little is known about this interaction among teleost, the largest group of extant vertebrates. Fishes being seasonal breeders, their immune system is exposed to seasonally changing levels of HPG hormones. On the contrary, the presence and infiltration of leukocytes, the expression of pattern recognition receptors as well as cytokines in gonads suggest their key role in teleostean gametogenesis as in the case of mammals. Moreover, the modulation of gametogenesis and steroidogenesis by lipopolysaccharide implicates the pathological significance of inflammation on reproduction. Thus, it is important to engage in the understanding of the interaction between these two important physiological systems, not only from a phylogenetic perspective but also due to the importance of fish as an important economic resource. In view of this, the authors have reviewed the crosstalk between the reproductive and immune systems in teleosts and tried to explore the importance of this interaction in their survival and reproductive fitness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bhawna Chuphal
- Department of Zoology, University of Delhi, Delhi, India
| | - Priyanka Sathoria
- Department of Zoology, Maitreyi College, University of Delhi, Delhi, India
| | - Umesh Rai
- University of Jammu, Jammu, Jammu and Kashmir, India
| | - Brototi Roy
- Department of Zoology, Maitreyi College, University of Delhi, Delhi, India
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Al-Bashiti AI, Ahmed KA, Alqaisi KM. Relationship of inflammatory mediators and sex-related parameters in Jordanian adult men patients with Covid-19. J Med Biochem 2022; 41:474-482. [PMID: 36381078 PMCID: PMC9618331 DOI: 10.5937/jomb0-35601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2021] [Accepted: 03/26/2022] [Indexed: 08/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent epidemiological data suggest that Co - ro navirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has a gender predisposition, with men being more seriously affected than women. Furthermore, older men accounting for most deaths. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the serum testosterone, inhibin B, intrleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-a) levels in different age groups of Jordanian males with SARS-CoV2 infection and to evaluate the correlation of these markers in male patients with COVID-19. METHODS This study was performed on 157 selected individuals divided into two groups; COVID-19 patients and healthy controls. The participants of each group were further divided into two subgroups based on the age (20-50 years and 51-80 years age groups). The biochemical tests that were performed in this research are testosterone, inhibin-B, TNF-a, and IL-6. RESULTS The levels of IL-6 were significantly higher in COVID-19 patients than healthy individuals (7.63 ± 6.30 vs. 5.54 ± 2.10, P=0.006). Similarly, the difference between the levels of TNF-a in the study groups were statistically significant (P=0.001). The mean testosterone levels in COVID-19 patients and healthy controls were 1.53 ± 1.24 and 3.87 ± 1.44, respectively (P<0.001), whereas the mean inhibin B levels in COVID-19 patients (54.29 ± 7.33) were lower than in healthy controls (64.14 ± 37.66) with P = 0.011. TNF-a was significantly and positively correlated with age (r = 0.263, P=0.018) and IL-6 (r = 0.245, P=0.027). Inhibin B had a significant, but negative correlation with TNF-a (r = -0.326, P = 0.003). CONCLUSIONS It can be concluded that most men seeking medical attention with symptomatic COVID-19 had low testosterone and inhibin B levels with increased both IL-6 and TNF-a, which are independent of age conforming the deleterious effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection on testicular function and immune response induction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amneh I. Al-Bashiti
- Al-Ahliyya Amman University, Faculty of Allied Medical Sciences, Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Amman, Jordan
| | - Khaled A. Ahmed
- Al-Ahliyya Amman University, Faculty of Allied Medical Sciences, Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Amman, Jordan
| | - Khalid M. Alqaisi
- Al-Ahliyya Amman University, Faculty of Allied Medical Sciences, Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Amman, Jordan
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Di Persio S, Starace D, Capponi C, Saracino R, Fera S, Filippini A, Vicini E. TNF-α inhibits GDNF levels in Sertoli cells, through a NF-κB-dependent, HES1-dependent mechanism. Andrology 2021; 9:956-964. [PMID: 33314792 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2020] [Revised: 11/13/2020] [Accepted: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) is a soluble molecule crucial for the regulation of the spermatogonial stem cells (SSC) of the testis. The effects of GDNF on target cells have been extensively described, but mechanisms underlying GDNF regulation are currently under investigation. In the nervous system, GDNF expression is regulated by pro-inflammatory cytokines including lipopolysaccharide (LPS), interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β), and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) but the effect of these cytokines on GDNF expression in the testis is unclear. OBJECTIVES The aim of the present study was to investigate the impact of TNF-α on GDNF expression levels using primary murine Sertoli cells as experimental model. MATERIAL AND METHODS The expression of TNF-α-regulated genes including Gdnf in different culture conditions was determined by real-time PCR. GDNF protein levels were determined by ELISA. The activation of the NF-κb pathway and HES1 levels were assessed by Western Blot analysis and immunofluorescence. HES1 expression was downregulated by RNAi. RESULTS In primary Sertoli cells, TNF-α downregulates GDNF levels through a nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB)-dependent mechanism. Mechanistically, TNF-α induces the transcriptional repressor HES1 by a NF-Κb-dependent mechanism, which in turn downregulates GDNF. DISCUSSION Under physiological conditions, TNF-α is secreted by germ cells suggesting that this cytokine plays a role in the paracrine control of SSC niche by modulating GDNF levels. HES1, a well-known target of the Notch pathway, is implicated in the regulation of GDNF expression. In Sertoli cells, TNF-α and Notch signaling may converge at molecular level, to regulate the expression of HES1 and HES1- target genes, including GDNF. CONCLUSIONS Because of the importance of GDNF for spermatogonial stem cell self-renewal and proliferation, this data may give important insights on how cytokine signals in the testis modulate the expression of niche-derived factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Di Persio
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic Medicine and Orthopedic, Section of Histology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Donatella Starace
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic Medicine and Orthopedic, Section of Histology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Chiara Capponi
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic Medicine and Orthopedic, Section of Histology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Rossana Saracino
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic Medicine and Orthopedic, Section of Histology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefania Fera
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic Medicine and Orthopedic, Section of Histology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Filippini
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic Medicine and Orthopedic, Section of Histology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Elena Vicini
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic Medicine and Orthopedic, Section of Histology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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Kauerhof AC, Nicolas N, Bhushan S, Wahle E, Loveland KA, Fietz D, Bergmann M, Groome NP, Kliesch S, Schuppe HC, Pilatz A, Meinhardt A, Hedger MP, Fijak M. Investigation of activin A in inflammatory responses of the testis and its role in the development of testicular fibrosis. Hum Reprod 2020; 34:1536-1550. [PMID: 31340036 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dez109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2018] [Revised: 05/27/2019] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Does activin A contribute to testicular fibrosis under inflammatory conditions? SUMMARY ANSWER Our results show that activin A and key fibrotic proteins are increased in human testicular biopsies with leukocytic infiltrates and impaired spermatogenesis and in murine experimental autoimmune orchitis (EAO) and that activin A stimulates fibrotic responses in peritubular cells (PTCs) and NIH 3T3 fibroblasts. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Fibrosis is a feature of EAO. Activin A, a regulator of fibrosis, was increased in testes of mice with EAO and its expression correlated with severity of the disease. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This is a cross-sectional and longitudinal study of adult mice immunized with testicular homogenate (TH) in adjuvant to induce EAO, collected at 30 (n = 6), 50 (n = 6) and 80 (n = 5) days after first immunization. Age-matched mice injected with adjuvant alone (n = 14) and untreated mice (n = 15) were included as controls. TH-immunized mice with elevated endogenous follistatin, injected with a non-replicative recombinant adeno-associated viral vector carrying a gene cassette of follistatin (rAAV-FST315; n = 3) or vector with an empty cassette (empty vector controls; n = 2) 30 days prior to the first immunization, as well as appropriate adjuvant (n = 2) and untreated (n = 2) controls, were also examined.Human testicular biopsies showing focal inflammatory lesions associated with impaired spermatogenesis (n = 7) were included. Biopsies showing intact spermatogenesis without inflammation, from obstructive azoospermia patients, served as controls (n = 7).Mouse primary PTC and NIH 3T3 fibroblasts were stimulated with activin A and follistatin 288 (FST288) to investigate the effect of activin A on the expression of fibrotic markers. Production of activin A by mouse primary Sertoli cells (SCs) was also investigated. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Testicular RNA and protein extracts collected from mice at days 30, 50 and 80 after first immunization were used for analysis of fibrotic marker genes and proteins, respectively. Total collagen was assessed by hydroxyproline assay and fibronectin; collagen I, III and IV, α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) expression and phosphorylation of suppressor of mothers against decapentaplegic (SMAD) family member 2 were measured by western blot. Immunofluorescence was used to detect fibronectin. Fibronectin (Fn), αSMA (Acta2), collagen I (Col1a2), III (Col3a1) and IV (Col4a1) mRNA in PTC and NIH 3T3 cells treated with activin A and/or FST288 were measured by quantitative RT-PCR (qRT-PCR). Activin A in SC following tumour necrosis factor (TNF) or FST288 stimulation was measured by ELISA. Human testicular biopsies were analysed by qRT-PCR for PTPRC (CD45) and activin A (INHBA), hydroxyproline assay and immunofluorescence. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Production of activin A by SC was stimulated by 25 and 50 ng/ml TNF (P < 0.01, P < 0.001, respectively) as compared to untreated cells. INHBA mRNA was increased in human testicular biopsies with leukocytic infiltrates and impaired spermatogenesis, compared with control biopsies (P < 0.05), accompanied by increased total collagen (P < 0.01) and fibronectin deposition. Total testicular collagen (P < 0.0001) and fibronectin protein expression (P < 0.05) were also increased in EAO, and fibronectin expression was correlated with the severity of the disease (r = 0.9028). In animals pre-treated with rAAV-FST315 prior to immunization with TH, protein expression of fibronectin was comparable to control. Stimulation of PTC and NIH 3T3 cells with activin A increased fibronectin mRNA (P < 0.05) and the production of collagen I (P < 0.001; P < 0.01) and fibronectin (P < 0.05). Moreover, activin A also increased collagen IV mRNA (P < 0.05) in PTC, while αSMA mRNA (P < 0.01) and protein (P < 0.0001) were significantly increased by activin A in NIH 3T3 cells. LARGE SCALE DATA N/A. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION A limited number of human testicular specimens was available for the study. Part of the study was performed in vitro, including NIH 3T3 cells as a surrogate for testicular fibroblasts. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Resident fibroblasts and PTC may contribute to the progression of testicular fibrosis following inflammation, and activin A is implicated as a key mediator of this process. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was supported by the National Health and Medical Research Council of Australia, the Victorian Government's Operational Infrastructure Support Program and the International Research Training Group between Justus Liebig University (Giessen) and Monash University (Melbourne) (GRK 1871/1-2) on `Molecular pathogenesis on male reproductive disorders' funded by the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft and Monash University. The authors declare no competing financial interests.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Christine Kauerhof
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany.,Hessian Centre of Reproductive Medicine, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany.,Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Nour Nicolas
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany.,Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Australia
| | - Sudhanshu Bhushan
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany.,Hessian Centre of Reproductive Medicine, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Eva Wahle
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany.,Hessian Centre of Reproductive Medicine, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Kate A Loveland
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Australia.,Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Daniela Fietz
- Hessian Centre of Reproductive Medicine, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany.,Department of Veterinary Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Martin Bergmann
- Hessian Centre of Reproductive Medicine, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany.,Department of Veterinary Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Nigel P Groome
- Department of Biological and Medical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Oxford Brookes University, Oxford, UK
| | - Sabine Kliesch
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Department of Clinical and Surgical Andrology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Hans-Christian Schuppe
- Hessian Centre of Reproductive Medicine, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany.,Department of Urology, Paediatric Urology and Andrology, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Adrian Pilatz
- Hessian Centre of Reproductive Medicine, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany.,Department of Urology, Paediatric Urology and Andrology, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Andreas Meinhardt
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany.,Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Australia
| | - Mark P Hedger
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Australia.,Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Australia.,Shared last authorship
| | - Monika Fijak
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany.,Hessian Centre of Reproductive Medicine, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany.,Shared last authorship
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Evidence that Melatonin Increases Inhibin Beta-A and Follistatin Gene Expression in Ovaries of Pinealectomized Rats. Reprod Sci 2020; 27:1455-1464. [PMID: 32046468 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-020-00162-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2019] [Accepted: 12/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Melatonin plays an important role in the regulation of ovarian function including oocyte maturation in different mammalian species. Many studies indicate that melatonin has an impact on the ovarian function of a variety of ovarian cells. However, the information on the exact mechanism and involved hormones is low. To evaluate inhibin beta-A (INHBA) and follistatin (FST) expression in the ovaries of pinealectomized rats treated with melatonin, thirty adult female Wistar rats were randomized into three groups of ten animals each: group 1 (GSh), sham-operated controls receiving vehicle; group 2 (GPx), pinealectomized animals receiving vehicle; and group 3 (GPxMe), pinealectomized animals receiving replacement melatonin (1.0 mg/kg body weight. It was assumed that each animal drank 6.5 ± 1.2 ml per night and weighs approximately 300 g.) for 60 consecutive days. The ovaries were collected for mRNA abundance and protein of INHBA and FST by qRT-PCR and immunohistochemical analyses, respectively. Treatment with melatonin resulted in the upregulation of INHBA and FST genes in the ovarian tissue of the melatonin-treated animals (GPxMe), when compared with GPx. These findings were then confirmed by analyzing the expression of protein by immunohistochemical analyses, which revealed higher immunoreactivity of INHBA and FST in GPxMe animals in the follicular cells compared with GSh and GPx rats. Melatonin increases the expression of INHBA and FST in the ovaries of pinealectomized female rats.
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Uri-Belapolsky S, Miller I, Shaish A, Levi M, Harats D, Ninio-Many L, Kamari Y, Shalgi R. Interleukin 1-alpha deficiency increases the expression of Follicle-stimulating hormone receptors in granulosa cells. Mol Reprod Dev 2017; 84:460-467. [PMID: 28337831 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.22799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2016] [Accepted: 03/05/2017] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Follicle-stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR) is a pivotal regulator of ovarian response to hormonal stimulation. Inflammatory conditions have been linked to lower FSHR expression in granulosa cells (GCs) as well as an attenuated response to hormonal stimulation. The current study aimed to reveal if deficiency and/or blockage of the pro-inflammatory cytokine interleukin 1-alpha (IL1A) increased Fshr expression in rodent GCs. We found elevated Fshr transcript abundance, as assessed by quantitative PCR, in primary GCs isolated from Il1a-knockout compared to wild-type mice, and that the expression of FSHR is significantly higher in Il1a-knockout compared to wild-type ovaries. Supplementing GC cultures with recombinant IL1A significantly lowered Fshr expression in these cells. In accordance with the Fshr expression pattern, proliferation of GCs was higher in follicles from Il1a-knockout mice compared to wild-type mice, as indicated by the MKI67 immunohistochemical staining. Furthermore, treating wild-type mice with anakinra, an IL1 receptor 1 antagonist, significantly increased the expression of Fshr in primary GCs from treated compared to control mice. These data highlight an important interdependency between the potent pro-inflammatory cytokine IL1A and Fshr expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiri Uri-Belapolsky
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel.,The Bert W. Strassburger Lipid Center, Sheba Medical Center, Tel-Hashomer, Israel
| | - Irit Miller
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Aviv Shaish
- The Bert W. Strassburger Lipid Center, Sheba Medical Center, Tel-Hashomer, Israel
| | - Mattan Levi
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Dror Harats
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel.,The Bert W. Strassburger Lipid Center, Sheba Medical Center, Tel-Hashomer, Israel
| | - Lihi Ninio-Many
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Yehuda Kamari
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel.,The Bert W. Strassburger Lipid Center, Sheba Medical Center, Tel-Hashomer, Israel
| | - Ruth Shalgi
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
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Berger T, Conley A. Reduced endogenous estrogen and hemicastration interact synergistically to increase porcine sertoli cell proliferation. Biol Reprod 2014; 90:114. [PMID: 24740600 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.114.117770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Both reduced endogenous estrogen and hemicastration stimulate proliferation of porcine Sertoli cells. The objective of these experiments was to compare the temporal patterns of response to each stimulus with the response to the combined stimuli as indications of shared or separate mechanisms. Within a replicate, one littermate was treated weekly with canola oil vehicle and remained intact; a second littermate was treated weekly with vehicle, and one testis was removed at Day 8; a third littermate was treated weekly with the aromatase inhibitor letrozole to reduce endogenous estrogens and remained intact; and the fourth littermate was treated weekly with letrozole, and one testis was removed at Day 8. Four replicates were evaluated at 2 wk of age, five replicates evaluated at 6.5 wk of age, and five replicates were evaluated at 11 wk of age, with treatment ceasing at 6 wk of age. Numbers of Sertoli cells were determined following GATA4 labeling using the optical dissector method. Levels of estradiol, estrogen conjugates, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and inhibin were determined by radioimmunoassay. Hemicastration appeared to have a rapid effect on Sertoli cell proliferation, but letrozole treatment had no apparent effect on Sertoli cell numbers at 2 wk of age. Both letrozole treatment and hemicastration had stimulated Sertoli cell proliferation by 6.5 wk of age, although the magnitude of the hemicastration response was much greater. Letrozole appeared to have minimal interaction with hemicastration at this age. Letrozole and hemicastration together increased Sertoli cell numbers at 11 wk of age compared with either treatment alone. Estradiol and estrogen conjugates were dramatically reduced by aromatase inhibition as anticipated; treatment-induced changes in inhibin, LH, or FSH were minimal. Differences in timing of response and positive interaction at 11 wk of age suggest that hemicastration and letrozole stimulate proliferation of Sertoli cells by two initially different pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trish Berger
- Department of Animal Science, University of California, Davis, Davis, California
| | - Alan Conley
- Department of Population Health and Reproduction, University of California, Davis, Davis, California
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Mital P, Kaur G, Bowlin B, Paniagua NJ, Korbutt GS, Dufour JM. Nondividing, postpubertal rat sertoli cells resumed proliferation after transplantation. Biol Reprod 2014; 90:13. [PMID: 24285718 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.113.110197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Conventionally, it was believed that Sertoli cells (SC) stopped proliferating at puberty and became terminally differentiated quiescent cells. However, recent studies have challenged that dogma. In this study, we transplanted nondividing SC isolated from 23- to 27-day-old postpubertal rats transduced with a recombinant adenoviral vector (containing furin-modified human proinsulin cDNA) into diabetic severe combined immunodeficiency mice. Immunostaining the grafts for cell proliferation markers, proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) and MKI67, revealed that transplanted SC within the grafts were proliferating. Possible causes for resumption of proliferation of SC could be viral transduction, cell isolation and culture, higher abdominal temperature at the transplant site, and/or transplantation. To test for these possible causes, double- immunofluorescence staining was performed for GATA4 (SC marker) and MKI67. None of the SC were positive for MKI67 in tissue collected during SC isolation and culture or at higher temperature. However, nontransduced SC stained positive for MKI67 after transplantation into rats, suggesting viral transduction was not a key factor for induction of SC proliferation. Interestingly, resumption in proliferative ability of nondividing SC was temporary, as SC stopped proliferating within 14 days of transplantation and did not proliferate thereafter. Quantification of 5-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine-labeled SC demonstrated that 7%-9% of the total transplanted SC were proliferating in the grafts. These data indicate for the first time that nondividing SC resumed proliferation after transplantation and further validate previous findings that SC are not terminally differentiated. Hence, transplantation of SC could provide a useful model with which to study the regulation of SC proliferation in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Payal Mital
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, Texas
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Orisaka M, Hattori K, Fukuda S, Mizutani T, Miyamoto K, Sato T, Tsang BK, Kotsuji F, Yoshida Y. Dysregulation of ovarian follicular development in female rat: LH decreases FSH sensitivity during preantral-early antral transition. Endocrinology 2013; 154:2870-80. [PMID: 23709086 DOI: 10.1210/en.2012-2173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Several clinical studies have shown a correlation of hypersecretion of LH and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), infertility, and miscarriage in women, suggesting that chronically elevated LH impairs fertility. Growth arrest of small antral follicles in PCOS is also assumed to be associated with an abnormal endocrine environment involving increased LH stimulation, a hyperandrogenic milieu, and subsequent dysregulated FSH action in the ovarian follicles. In this study, we examined whether and how LH modulates follicular development and steroid production during preantral-early antral follicle transition by using a rat preantral follicle culture system. LH augments testosterone and estradiol production in preantral follicles via up-regulating mRNA abundance of CYP17A1 and CYP19A1. LH promotes rat preantral follicle growth, and the follicular size reaches that of early antral follicles in vitro, a response attenuated by the specific androgen receptor antagonist and a targeted disruption of androgen receptor gene. Sustained follicle stimulation by LH, but not by androgen, decreases FSH receptor mRNA levels and FSH receptor signaling and inhibits FSH-induced follicular growth. The data suggest that LH promotes preantral-early antral transition via the increased synthesis and growth-promoting action of androgen. However, chronic LH stimulation impairs FSH-dependent antral follicle growth by suppressing granulosa cell FSHR expression via the modulation of intraovarian regulators, including LH-induced thecal factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Makoto Orisaka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Fukui, Fukui, Japan 910-1193.
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Hedger MP, Winnall WR. Regulation of activin and inhibin in the adult testis and the evidence for functional roles in spermatogenesis and immunoregulation. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2012; 359:30-42. [PMID: 21964464 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2011.09.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2011] [Revised: 09/16/2011] [Accepted: 09/16/2011] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Activin A provides a unique link between reproduction and immunity, which is especially significant in the adult testis. This cytokine, together with inhibin B and follistatin acting as regulators of activin A activity, is fundamentally involved in the regulation of spermatogenesis and testicular steroidogenesis. However, activin A also has a much broader role in control of inflammation, fibrosis and immunity. In the Sertoli cell, activin A is regulated by signalling pathways that normally regulate stress and inflammation, signalling pathways that intersect with the classical hormonal regulatory pathways mediated by FSH. Modulation of activin A production and activity during spermatogenesis is implicated in the fine control of the cycle of the seminiferous epithelium. The immunoregulatory properties of activin A also suggest that it may be involved in maintaining testicular immune privilege. Consequently, elevated activin A production within the testis during inflammation and infection may contribute to spermatogenic failure, fibrosis and testicular damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark P Hedger
- Monash Institute of Medical Research, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
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Hedger MP. Toll-like receptors and signalling in spermatogenesis and testicular responses to inflammation--a perspective. J Reprod Immunol 2011; 88:130-41. [PMID: 21333360 PMCID: PMC7127151 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2011.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2010] [Revised: 01/16/2011] [Accepted: 01/19/2011] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
It is self-evident that infection and inflammation in the reproductive tract can inhibit male fertility, but the observation that fertility may also be compromised by systemic inflammation and disease is more difficult to explain. Recent studies implicating microbial pattern-recognition receptors, such as the Toll-like receptors (TLRs), as well as inflammatory cytokines and their signalling pathways, in testicular function have cast new light on this mysterious link between infection/inflammation and testicular dysfunction. It is increasingly evident that signalling pathways normally involved in controlling inflammation play fundamental roles in regulating Sertoli cell activity and responses to reproductive hormones, in addition to promoting immune responses within the testis. Many of the negative effects of inflammation on spermatogenesis may be attributed to elevated production of inflammation-related gene products within the circulation and the testis, which subsequently exert disruptive effects on spermatogenic cell development and survival, as well as the ability of the Sertoli cells to provide support for spermatogenesis. These interactions have important implications for testicular dysfunction and disease, and may eventually provide new opportunities for therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark P Hedger
- Centre for Reproduction and Development, Monash Institute of Medical Research, Monash University, 27-31 Wright Street, Clayton, Melbourne, Victoria 3168, Australia.
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