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Gao S, Chen Z, Wu X, Wang L, Bu T, Li L, Li X, Yun D, Sun F, Cheng CY. Perfluorooctane sulfonate-induced Sertoli cell injury through c-Jun N-terminal kinase: a study by RNA-Seq. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2024; 327:C291-C309. [PMID: 38826136 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00212.2024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2024] [Revised: 05/14/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/04/2024]
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are a family of "forever chemicals" including perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS). These toxic chemicals do not break down in the environment or in our bodies. In the human body, PFOS and perfluoroctanoic acid (PFOA) have a half-life (T1/2) of about 4-5 yr so low daily consumption of these chemicals can accumulate in the human body to a harmful level over a long period. Although the use of PFOS in consumer products was banned in the United States in 2022/2023, this forever chemical remains detectable in our tap water and food products. Every American tested has a high level of PFAS in their blood (https://cleanwater.org/pfas-forever-chemicals). In this report, we used a Sertoli cell blood-testis barrier (BTB) model with primary Sertoli cells cultured in vitro with an established functional tight junction (TJ)-permeability barrier that mimicked the BTB in vivo. Treatment of Sertoli cells with PFOS was found to perturb the TJ-barrier, which was the result of cytoskeletal disruption across the cell cytoplasm, disrupting actin and microtubule polymerization. These changes thus affected the proper localization of BTB-associated proteins at the BTB. Using RNA-Seq transcriptome profiling, bioinformatics analysis, and pertinent biochemical and cell biology techniques, it was discovered that PFOS -induced Sertoli cell toxicity through the c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK; also known as stress-activated protein kinase, SAPK) and its phosphorylated/active form p-JNK signaling pathway. More importantly, KB-R7943 mesylate (KB), a JNK/p-JNK activator, was capable of blocking PFOS-induced Sertoli cell injury, supporting the notion that PFOS-induced cell injury can possibly be therapeutically managed.NEW & NOTEWORTHY PFOS induces Sertoli cell injury, including disruption of the 1) blood-testis barrier function and 2) cytoskeletal organization, which, in turn, impedes male reproductive function. These changes are mediated by JNK/p-JNK signaling pathway. However, the use of KB-R7943, a JNK/p-JNK activator was capable of blocking PFOS-induced Sertoli cell injury, supporting the possibility of therapeutically managing PFOS-induced reproductive dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheng Gao
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, People's Republic of China
| | - Zifeng Chen
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaolong Wu
- Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Lingling Wang
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, People's Republic of China
| | - Tiao Bu
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, People's Republic of China
| | - Linxi Li
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Xinyao Li
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, People's Republic of China
| | - Damin Yun
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, People's Republic of China
| | - Fei Sun
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, People's Republic of China
| | - C Yan Cheng
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, People's Republic of China
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Yang X, He L, Li X, Wang L, Bu T, Yun D, Lu X, Gao S, Huang Q, Li J, Zheng B, Yu J, Sun F. Triptolide exposure triggers testicular vacuolization injury by disrupting the Sertoli cell junction and cytoskeletal organization via the AKT/mTOR signaling pathway. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 279:116502. [PMID: 38788563 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2024.116502] [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: 03/14/2024] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite the known reproductive toxicity induced by triptolide (TP) exposure, the regulatory mechanism underlying testicular vacuolization injury caused by TP remains largely obscure. METHODS Male mice were subjected to TP at doses of 15, 30, and 60 μg/kg for 35 consecutive days. Primary Sertoli cells were isolated from 20-day-old rat testes and exposed to TP at concentrations of 0, 40, 80, 160, 320, and 640 nM. A Biotin tracer assay was conducted to assess the integrity of the blood-testis barrier (BTB). Transepithelial electrical resistance (TER) assays were employed to investigate BTB function in primary Sertoli cells. Histological structures of the testes and epididymides were stained with hematoxylin and eosin (H&E). The expression and localization of relevant proteins or pathways were assessed through Western blotting or immunofluorescence staining. RESULTS TP exposure led to dose-dependent testicular injuries, characterized by a decreased organ coefficient, reduced sperm concentration, and the formation of vacuolization damage. Furthermore, TP exposure disrupted BTB integrity by reducing the expression levels of tight junction (TJ) proteins in the testes without affecting basal ectoplasmic specialization (basal ES) proteins. Through the TER assay, we identified that a TP concentration of 160 nM was optimal for elucidating BTB function in primary Sertoli cells, correlating with reductions in TJ protein expression. Moreover, TP exposure induced changes in the distribution of the BTB and cytoskeleton-associated proteins in primary Sertoli cells. By activating the AKT/mTOR signaling pathway, TP exposure disturbed the balance between mTORC1 and mTORC2, ultimately compromising BTB integrity in Sertoli cells. CONCLUSION This investigation sheds light on the impacts of TP exposure on testes, elucidating the mechanism by which TP exposure leads to testicular vacuolization injury and offering valuable insights into comprehending the toxic effects of TP exposure on testes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiwen Yang
- School of Basic Medical Science, Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation and Maintenance of Ministry of Education, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, China
| | - Lei He
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China
| | - Xinyao Li
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China
| | - Lingling Wang
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China
| | - Tiao Bu
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China
| | - Damin Yun
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China
| | - Xinran Lu
- School of Basic Medical Science, Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation and Maintenance of Ministry of Education, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, China
| | - Sheng Gao
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China
| | - Qiuru Huang
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China
| | - Jiaxin Li
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China
| | - Bo Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Center for Reproduction and Genetics, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu School of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou 215002, China.
| | - Jun Yu
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China.
| | - Fei Sun
- School of Basic Medical Science, Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation and Maintenance of Ministry of Education, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, China; Institute of Reproductive Medicine, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China.
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Zheng S, Jiang L, Qiu L. The effects of fine particulate matter on the blood-testis barrier and its potential mechanisms. REVIEWS ON ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH 2024; 39:233-249. [PMID: 36863426 DOI: 10.1515/reveh-2022-0204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/13/2022] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
With the rapid expansion of industrial scale, an increasing number of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) has bringing health concerns. Although exposure to PM2.5 has been clearly associated with male reproductive toxicity, the exact mechanisms are still unclear. Recent studies demonstrated that exposure to PM2.5 can disturb spermatogenesis through destroying the blood-testis barrier (BTB), consisting of different junction types, containing tight junctions (TJs), gap junctions (GJs), ectoplasmic specialization (ES) and desmosomes. The BTB is one of the tightest blood-tissue barriers among mammals, which isolating germ cells from hazardous substances and immune cell infiltration during spermatogenesis. Therefore, once the BTB is destroyed, hazardous substances and immune cells will enter seminiferous tubule and cause adversely reproductive effects. In addition, PM2.5 also has shown to cause cells and tissues injury via inducing autophagy, inflammation, sex hormones disorder, and oxidative stress. However, the exact mechanisms of the disruption of the BTB, induced by PM2.5, are still unclear. It is suggested that more research is required to identify the potential mechanisms. In this review, we aim to understand the adverse effects on the BTB after exposure to PM2.5 and explore its potential mechanisms, which provides novel insight into accounting for PM2.5-induced BTB injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaokai Zheng
- School of Public Health, Nantong University, Nantong, P. R. China
| | - Lianlian Jiang
- School of Public Health, Nantong University, Nantong, P. R. China
| | - Lianglin Qiu
- School of Public Health, Nantong University, Nantong, P. R. China
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Shi W, Zhang Z, Li M, Dong H, Li J. Reproductive toxicity of PFOA, PFOS and their substitutes: A review based on epidemiological and toxicological evidence. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 250:118485. [PMID: 38373549 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2024.118485] [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: 06/01/2023] [Revised: 01/27/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/21/2024]
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have already drawn a lot of attention for their accumulation and reproductive toxicity in organisms. Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctanoic sulfonate (PFOS), two representative PFAS, are toxic to humans and animals. Due to their widespread use in environmental media with multiple toxicities, PFOA and PFOS have been banned in numerous countries, and many substitutes have been produced to meet market requirements. Unfortunately, most alternatives to PFOA and PFOS have proven to be cumulative and highly toxic. Of the reported multiple organ toxicities, reproductive toxicity deserves special attention. It has been confirmed through epidemiological studies that PFOS and PFOA are not only associated with reduced testosterone levels in humans, but also with an association with damage to the integrity of the blood testicular barrier. In addition, for women, PFOA and PFOS are correlated with abnormal sex hormone levels, and increase the risk of infertility and abnormal menstrual cycle. Nevertheless, there is controversial evidence on the epidemiological relationship that exists between PFOA and PFOS as well as sperm quality and reproductive hormones, while the evidence from animal studies is relatively consistent. Based on the published papers, the potential toxicity mechanisms for PFOA, PFOS and their substitutes were reviewed. For males, PFOA and PFOS may produce reproductive toxicity in the following five ways: (1) Apoptosis and autophagy in spermatogenic cells; (2) Apoptosis and differentiation disorders of Leydig cells; (3) Oxidative stress in sperm and disturbance of Ca2+ channels in sperm membrane; (4) Degradation of delicate intercellular junctions between Sertoli cells; (5) Activation of brain nuclei and shift of hypothalamic metabolome. For females, PFOA and PFOS may produce reproductive toxicity in the following five ways: (1) Damage to oocytes through oxidative stress; (2) Inhibition of corpus luteum function; (3) Inhibition of steroid hormone synthesis; (4) Damage to follicles by affecting gap junction intercellular communication (GJIC); (5) Inhibition of placental function. Besides, PFAS substitutes show similar reproductive toxicity with PFOA and PFOS, and are even more toxic to the placenta. Finally, based on the existing knowledge, future developments and direction of efforts in this field are suggested.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenshan Shi
- School of Public Health, MOE Key Laboratory of Geriatric Diseases and Immunology, Suzhou Medical College, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Zengli Zhang
- School of Public Health, MOE Key Laboratory of Geriatric Diseases and Immunology, Suzhou Medical College, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China.
| | - Mei Li
- School of Civil Engineering, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, 215011, China
| | - Huiyu Dong
- Key Laboratory of Drinking Water Science and Technology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China.
| | - Jiafu Li
- School of Public Health, MOE Key Laboratory of Geriatric Diseases and Immunology, Suzhou Medical College, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China.
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Mokra K, Kaczmarska I, Bukowska B. Perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) and its selected analogs induce various cell death types in peripheral blood mononuclear cells. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 354:141664. [PMID: 38485001 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.141664] [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: 01/04/2024] [Revised: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
The perfluoalkyl substance (PFASs) perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) has been widely used in industry. However, PFOS is a persistent organic pollutant and has been gradually replaced by its short-chain analogs, perfluorohexane sulfonate (PFHxS) and perfluorobutane sulfonate (PFBS). PFASs are extremely persistent and are very frequently detected among the general population. The aim of the study was to determine the effect of selected PFASs on peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and the mechanisms of their action. PBMCs were exposed to PFOS, PFBS and PFHxS at concentrations ranging from 0.02 to 400 μM for 24 h, they were then tested for viability, apoptosis (changes in cytosolic calcium ions level and caspase-3, -8 and -9 activation), ferroptosis (changes in chelatable iron ions level and lipid peroxidation), and autophagy (LC3-II and Raptor level assay). PFOS exposure decreased cell viability, increased calcium ion level and caspase-8 activation; it also enhanced lipid peroxidation and increased the intracellular pool of chelatable iron ions as well as LC3-II protein content. In contrast, short-chain PFBS and PFHxS induced significant changes in the markers of apoptosis but had no substantial impact on ferroptosis or autophagy markers over a wide range of concentrations. Our results indicate that only PFOS demonstrated pro-ferroptotic and pro-autophagic potential but observed changes occurred at relatively high exposure. A short-chain substitute (PFBS) exhibited strong pro-apoptotic potential at concentrations related to occupational exposure. While the short-chain PFASs strongly affected the mitochondrial pathway of apoptosis, apoptosis itself was only induced by PFBS via the intrinsic and extrinsic pathways. It seems that the length of the carbon chain in PFASs appears to determine the cell death mechanisms activated in human PBMCs following exposure. Our findings provide a new insight into the immune toxicity mechanism induced by these compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Mokra
- University of Lodz, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, Department of Biophysics of Environmental Pollution, 141/143 Pomorska St., 90-236, Lodz, Poland.
| | - Izabela Kaczmarska
- University of Lodz, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, Department of Biophysics of Environmental Pollution, 141/143 Pomorska St., 90-236, Lodz, Poland
| | - Bożena Bukowska
- University of Lodz, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, Department of Biophysics of Environmental Pollution, 141/143 Pomorska St., 90-236, Lodz, Poland
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Ma S, Wang L, Li S, Zhao S, Li F, Li X. Transcriptome and proteome analyses reveal the mechanisms involved in polystyrene nanoplastics disrupt spermatogenesis in mice. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 342:123086. [PMID: 38061432 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.123086] [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: 09/14/2023] [Revised: 11/26/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
Nanoplastics have been demonstrated to be reproductively toxic to mammals. However, the mechanisms of nanoplastics induce reproductive damage in mammals, especially their effects on spermatogenesis, remain elusive. Herein, we explored the effects and underlying mechanisms of polystyrene nanoplastics (PS-NPs) on the testicular development of male mice after 28 days of exposure, representing the first systematic study of PS-NPs-induced male reproductive injury by integrating histomorphology, transcriptomics and proteomics. PS-NPs decreased the sperm concentration, sperm motility, and disrupted the structure of the seminiferous tubules of the mice. Besides, transcriptome and proteome analyses revealed that PS-NPs disrupted spermatogenesis by inhibiting the transcription of Prm3/Tnp1/Aurkc/Mea1/Mettl14 and the expression of Pmfbp1/Ggn/Fsip2. Furthermore, PS-NPs enabled Hsd3b5 protein expression to reduce dihydrotestosterone levels, and affected sperm flagellar assembly by decreasing the expression of Dnah8/Tekt5/Rsph6a. Moreover, PS-NPs induced testicular cell apoptosis by up-regulating the expression of cathepsins (B/F/H). In addition, PS-NPs destroyed tight junctions by reducing the expression of the Claudin family (3/5/15). In conclusion, PS-NPs can disrupt spermatogenesis by altering the expression patterns of transcriptome and proteome, inducing testicular cell apoptosis and destroying tight junctions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheng Ma
- School of Agriculture and Biology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200436, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory for Veterinary and Biotechnology, Shanghai, 200436, China
| | - Lirui Wang
- School of Agriculture and Biology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200436, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory for Veterinary and Biotechnology, Shanghai, 200436, China
| | - Sisi Li
- School of Agriculture and Biology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200436, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory for Veterinary and Biotechnology, Shanghai, 200436, China
| | - Shurui Zhao
- School of Agriculture and Biology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200436, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory for Veterinary and Biotechnology, Shanghai, 200436, China
| | - Feiyu Li
- School of Agriculture and Biology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200436, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory for Veterinary and Biotechnology, Shanghai, 200436, China
| | - Xinhong Li
- School of Agriculture and Biology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200436, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory for Veterinary and Biotechnology, Shanghai, 200436, China.
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Li T, Jiang L, Zheng S, Qiu C, Zhao N, Lin X, Ren H, Huang J, Wang H, Qiu L. Organic anion transporting polypeptide 3a1 is a novel influx pump for Perfluorooctane sulfonate in Sertoli cells and contributes to its reproductive toxicity. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 345:140428. [PMID: 37858765 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.140428] [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: 12/08/2022] [Revised: 09/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
Persistent organic pollutant perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) is strongly associated with male reproductive disorders, but the related mechanisms are still not fully understood. In this study, we used in vivo and in vitro models to explore the role of organic anion transporting polypeptide 3a1 (Oatp3a1) on PFOS-induced male reproductive injury. Thirty male C57BL/6 (B6) mice were orally given PFOS (0-10 mg/kg/bw) for 28 days. Body weight, organ index, sperm count, histology, and blood-testis barrier (BTB) integrity were evaluated. Primary Sertoli cells were used to describe the related molecular mechanisms of male reproductive injury caused by PFOS. Our results showed that PFOS induced a decrease in sperm count, morphological damage to testicular Sertoli cells, and disruption of BTB. In the in vitro model, exposure to PFOS significantly increased Oatp3a1 mRNA and protein levels and decreased miR-23a-3p expression in Sertoli cells, accompanied by reduced trans-epithelial electrical resistance (TEER) value. By performing the 14C-PFOS uptake experiment, we showed that 14C-PFOS uptake in HEK293-Oatp3a1 cells was apparently higher than in HEK293-MOCK cells. Meanwhile, treating Sertoli cells with Oatp3a1 siRNA significantly decreased Oatp3a1 expression and rescued PFOS-induced decreases in TEER value. As such, the present study highlights that Oatp3a1 may play an important role in the toxic effect of PFOS on Sertoli cells, advancing our understanding of molecular mechanisms for PFOS-induced male reproductive disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Li
- School of Public Health, Nantong University, 9 Seyuan Rd., Nantong, 226019, PR China
| | - Lianlian Jiang
- School of Public Health, Nantong University, 9 Seyuan Rd., Nantong, 226019, PR China
| | - Shaokai Zheng
- School of Public Health, Nantong University, 9 Seyuan Rd., Nantong, 226019, PR China
| | - Chong Qiu
- Medical School, Nantong University, 19 Qixiu Rd., Nantong, 226001, PR China
| | - Nannan Zhao
- School of Public Health, Nantong University, 9 Seyuan Rd., Nantong, 226019, PR China
| | - Xiaojun Lin
- School of Public Health, Nantong University, 9 Seyuan Rd., Nantong, 226019, PR China
| | - Hang Ren
- School of Public Health, Nantong University, 9 Seyuan Rd., Nantong, 226019, PR China
| | - Jiyan Huang
- School of Public Health, Nantong University, 9 Seyuan Rd., Nantong, 226019, PR China
| | - Hongxia Wang
- School of Public Health, Nantong University, 9 Seyuan Rd., Nantong, 226019, PR China
| | - Lianglin Qiu
- School of Public Health, Nantong University, 9 Seyuan Rd., Nantong, 226019, PR China.
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Xiong YW, Li DX, Ling ZJ, Tan LL, Zhang YF, Zhang J, Li H, Chang W, Zhu HL, Zhang J, Gao L, Xu DX, Yang L, Wang H. Loss of Atg5 in Sertoli cells enhances the susceptibility of cadmium-impaired testicular spermatogenesis in mice. Food Chem Toxicol 2023; 179:113967. [PMID: 37506864 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2023.113967] [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: 05/18/2023] [Revised: 07/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023]
Abstract
Cadmium (Cd), one of the most common contaminants in diet and drinking water, impairs testicular germ cell development and spermatogenesis. Autophagy is essential for maintaining Sertoli cell function and Sertoli-germ cell communication. However, the role of Sertoli cell autophagy in Cd-caused spermatogenesis disorder remains unclear. Here, the mice of autophagy-related gene 5 (Atg5) knockouts in Sertoli cells were used to investigate the effect of autophagy deficiency on Cd-impaired spermatogenesis and its underlying mechanisms. Results showed that Sertoli cell-specific knockout of Atg5 exacerbated Cd-reduced sperm count and MVH (a specific marker for testicular germ cells) level in mice. Additionally, Sertoli cell Atg5 deficiency reduced the number of spermatocytes and decreased the level of meiosis-related proteins (SYCP3 and STRA8) in Cd-treated mouse testes. Loss of Atg5 in Sertoli cell exacerbated Cd-reduced the level of retinoic acid (RA) and retinal dehydrogenase (ALDH1A1 and ALDH1A) in mouse testes. Meanwhile, we found that the level of transcription factor WT1 was significantly downregulated in Atg5-/- plus Cd-treated testes. Further experiments showed that Wt1 overexpression restored Cd-decreased the levels of ALDH1A1 in Sertoli cells. Collectively, the above data suggest that knockout of Atg5 in Sertoli cell enhances the susceptibility of Cd-impaired testicular spermatogenesis. These findings provide new insights into autophagy of Sertoli cell preventing environmental toxicants-impaired testicular spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong-Wei Xiong
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China
| | - Dai-Xin Li
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China
| | - Zheng-Jia Ling
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China; Prenatal Diagnosis Center, Wuxi Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, 214002, Wuxi, China
| | - Lu-Lu Tan
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China
| | - Yu-Feng Zhang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China
| | - Jin Zhang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China
| | - Hao Li
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China
| | - Wei Chang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China
| | - Hua-Long Zhu
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China; Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, China
| | - Jun Zhang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China
| | - Lan Gao
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China
| | - De-Xiang Xu
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China; Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, China
| | - Lan Yang
- Prenatal Diagnosis Center, Wuxi Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, 214002, Wuxi, China.
| | - Hua Wang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China; Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, China.
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Shan L, Chai Y, Gao T, Li K, Yu J, Liang F, Ni Y, Sun P. Perfluorooctane sulfonate and perfluorooctanoic acid inhibit progesterone-responsive capacitation through cAMP/PKA signaling pathway and induce DNA damage in human sperm. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND PHARMACOLOGY 2023:104165. [PMID: 37245612 DOI: 10.1016/j.etap.2023.104165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2023] [Revised: 04/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) are two persistent organic pollutants harmful to human health. They induce negative effects on male reproduction by influencing male hormones, spermatogenesis, and sperm quality. However, their effects and mechanisms on human sperm capacitation and fertilization remain unclear. Here, human sperm were incubated with different concentrations of PFOS or PFOA with progesterone during capacitation. Both PFOS and PFOA inhibited human sperm hyperactivation, sperm acrosome reaction, and protein tyrosine phosphorylation levels. PFOS and PFOA decreased intracellular Ca2+ concentration in the presence of progestrone, and subsequently decreased cAMP level, and PKA activity. PFOS and PFOA increased reactive oxygen species production and sperm DNA fragmentation duing the only 3h capacitation incubation. Conclusively, PFOA and PFOS may inhibit human sperm capacitation via the Ca2+-mediated cAMP/PKA signaling pathway in the presence of progesterone, and induce sperm DNA damage through increased oxidative stress, which is not conducive to fertilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lijun Shan
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yuhao Chai
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Tian Gao
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Kun Li
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Zhejiang Provincial Laboratory of Experimental Animal's & Nonclinical Laboratory Studies, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jianmin Yu
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Zhejiang Provincial Laboratory of Experimental Animal's & Nonclinical Laboratory Studies, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Fei Liang
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Zhejiang Provincial Laboratory of Experimental Animal's & Nonclinical Laboratory Studies, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Ya Ni
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Zhejiang Provincial Laboratory of Experimental Animal's & Nonclinical Laboratory Studies, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Peibei Sun
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Zhejiang Provincial Laboratory of Experimental Animal's & Nonclinical Laboratory Studies, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
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Wei Y, Hong Y, Yang L, Wang J, Zhao T, Zheng X, Kang L, Chen J, Han L, Long C, Shen L, Wu S, Wei G. Single-cell transcriptomic dissection of the toxic impact of di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate on immature testicular development at the neonatal stage. Food Chem Toxicol 2023; 176:113780. [PMID: 37059381 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2023.113780] [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: 02/18/2023] [Revised: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 04/16/2023]
Abstract
Di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) early exposure leads to immature testicular injury, and we aimed to utilize single-cell RNA (scRNA) sequencing to comprehensively assess the toxic effect of DEHP on testicular development. Therefore, we gavaged pregnant C57BL/6 mice with 750 mg/kg body weight DEHP from gestational day 13.5 to delivery and performed scRNA sequencing of neonatal testes at postnatal day 5.5. The results revealed the gene expression dynamics in testicular cells. DEHP disrupted the developmental trajectory of germ cells and the balance between the self-renewal and differentiation of spermatogonial stem cells. Additionally, DEHP caused an abnormal developmental trajectory, cytoskeletal damage and cell cycle arrest in Sertoli cells; disrupted the metabolism of testosterone in Leydig cells; and disturbed the developmental trajectory in peritubular myoid cells. Elevated oxidative stress and excessive apoptosis mediated by p53 were observed in almost all testicular cells. The intercellular interactions among four cell types were altered, and biological processes related to glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF), transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), NOTCH, platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) and WNT signaling pathways were enriched after DEHP treatment. These findings systematically describe the damaging effects of DEHP on the immature testes and provide substantial novel insights into the reproductive toxicity of DEHP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuexin Wei
- Department of Urology, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400014, PR China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation base of Child development and Critical Disorders, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400014, PR China
| | - Yifan Hong
- Department of Urology, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400014, PR China; Pediatric Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400014, PR China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation base of Child development and Critical Disorders, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400014, PR China
| | - Liuqing Yang
- Pediatric Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400014, PR China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation base of Child development and Critical Disorders, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400014, PR China
| | - Junke Wang
- Department of Urology, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400014, PR China; Pediatric Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400014, PR China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation base of Child development and Critical Disorders, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400014, PR China
| | - Tianxin Zhao
- Department of Urology, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Guangzhou, 510623, PR China
| | - Xiangqin Zheng
- Department of Urology, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400014, PR China; Pediatric Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400014, PR China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation base of Child development and Critical Disorders, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400014, PR China
| | - Lian Kang
- Department of Urology, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400014, PR China; Pediatric Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400014, PR China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation base of Child development and Critical Disorders, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400014, PR China
| | - Jiadong Chen
- Department of Urology, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400014, PR China; Pediatric Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400014, PR China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation base of Child development and Critical Disorders, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400014, PR China
| | - Lindong Han
- Department of Urology, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400014, PR China; Pediatric Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400014, PR China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation base of Child development and Critical Disorders, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400014, PR China
| | - Chunlan Long
- Pediatric Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400014, PR China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation base of Child development and Critical Disorders, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400014, PR China
| | - Lianju Shen
- Pediatric Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400014, PR China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation base of Child development and Critical Disorders, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400014, PR China
| | - Shengde Wu
- Department of Urology, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400014, PR China; Pediatric Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400014, PR China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation base of Child development and Critical Disorders, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400014, PR China.
| | - Guanghui Wei
- Department of Urology, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400014, PR China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation base of Child development and Critical Disorders, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400014, PR China
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11
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Li Y, Chen Y, Wu W, Li N, Hua J. MMPs, ADAMs and ADAMTSs are associated with mammalian sperm fate. Theriogenology 2023; 200:147-154. [PMID: 36842259 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.02.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Revised: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 02/12/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023]
Abstract
Metalloproteinases include matrix metalloproteinases and disintegrin metalloproteinases. They are important members of the ECM degradation and reconstruction process and are associated with tissue development and disease. The ECM is a three-dimensional network of large molecules consisting of a variety of proteins. It is a physical scaffold for organs, and all types of cells can be found within the ECM. The testicle, where sperm are produced, is an organ that is constantly in dynamic flux. Metalloproteinases can regulate testicular tissue development and the maturation of sperm by affecting the ECM. Metalloproteinase disorders can lead to cryptorchidism, azoospermia, poor semen quality and other diseases. As a member of the metalloproteinase family, ADAMTS plays an important role in testicular slippage to the scrotum. ADAM is involved in the fertilization process, and excessive MMP can damage the BTB. In the testis, metalloproteinase stability represents the stability of the extracellular microenvironment in which germ cells are located and is associated with reproductive function. Metalloproteinases have a definite relationship with male reproduction, but the underlying mechanism is still unclear. This paper summarizes the literature on various metalloproteinases in testicular tissue physiology and pathology to elucidate their role in reproductive function and male reproductive mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunxiang Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine/Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Northwest Agriculture & Forestry University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China; Key Laboratory of Livestock Biology, Northwest A&F University, 712100, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yuguang Chen
- College of Veterinary Medicine/Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Northwest Agriculture & Forestry University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China; Key Laboratory of Livestock Biology, Northwest A&F University, 712100, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Wenping Wu
- College of Veterinary Medicine/Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Northwest Agriculture & Forestry University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China; Key Laboratory of Livestock Biology, Northwest A&F University, 712100, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Na Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine/Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Northwest Agriculture & Forestry University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China; Key Laboratory of Livestock Biology, Northwest A&F University, 712100, Yangling, Shaanxi, China.
| | - Jinlian Hua
- College of Veterinary Medicine/Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Northwest Agriculture & Forestry University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China; Key Laboratory of Livestock Biology, Northwest A&F University, 712100, Yangling, Shaanxi, China.
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12
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Lu B, Qian J, Hu J, Huang Y, Wang P, Shen J, He Y, Tang S, Liu Y, Zhang Y. Plant rhizosphere defense system respond differently to emerging polyfluoroalkyl substances F-53B and PFOS stress. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 443:130119. [PMID: 36265386 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2022.130119] [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: 05/07/2022] [Revised: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/01/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Chlorinated polyfluoroalkyl ether sulfonate (F-53B) and perfluorooctanesulfonate (PFOS) are used and emitted as fog inhibitors in the chromium plating industry, and they are widely detected worldwide. To study the effects of F-53B and PFOS on the rhizosphere defense system, they were added at two levels (0.1 and 50 mg L-1) to the soil where different plants (Lythrum salicaria and Phragmites communis) were grown. In bulk soils, high concentrations of F-53B/PFOS resulted in significant increases in soil pH, NH4+-N, and NO3--N (the effect of PFOS on NO3--N was not significant). Moreover, the extent of the effects of PFOS and F-53B on the physicochemical properties of bulk soils were different (e.g., PFOS caused an increase of NH4+-N by 8.94%-45.97% compared to 1.63%-25.20% for F-53B). Root exudates and PFASs together influenced the physicochemical properties of rhizosphere soils (e.g., TOC increased significantly in contaminated rhizosphere soils but did not change in non-bulk soils). Under the influence of F-53B/PFOS, the root exudates regulated by plants were changed and weakened the effect of F-53B/PFOS on microbial community of rhizosphere soil. The rhizosphere defense systems of different plants have both similarities and differences in response to different substances and concentrations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bianhe Lu
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, People's Republic of China; College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, People's Republic of China
| | - Jin Qian
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, People's Republic of China; College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, People's Republic of China.
| | - Jing Hu
- Geosystems Research Institute, Mississippi State University, MS 39759, USA
| | | | - Peifang Wang
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, People's Republic of China; College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, People's Republic of China.
| | - Junwei Shen
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, People's Republic of China; College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuxuan He
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, People's Republic of China; College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, People's Republic of China
| | - Sijing Tang
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, People's Republic of China; College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, People's Republic of China
| | - Yin Liu
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, People's Republic of China; College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuhang Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, People's Republic of China; College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, People's Republic of China
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Wen S, Chen Y, Tang Y, Zhao Y, Liu S, You T, Xu H. Male reproductive toxicity of polystyrene microplastics: Study on the endoplasmic reticulum stress signaling pathway. Food Chem Toxicol 2023; 172:113577. [PMID: 36563925 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2022.113577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2022] [Revised: 11/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) have raised health concerns in public for its potential reproductive toxicity. In this study, we subjected the Kunming mice to 0.01, 0.1 and 1.0 mg/day polystyrene MPs (10 μm, PS-MPs) for 35 days, aiming to investigate the relevant male reproductive toxicity and latent molecular mechanism. The results showed the decreased sperm counts and motility, while the elevated sperm abnormality in PS-MPs-exposed mice. Testicular H&E staining displayed the vacuolization, atrophy, and even shedding of germ cells in seminiferous tubule. And the testosterone content in serum also decreased with PS-MPs treatment. Moreover, molecular analysis indicated that PS-MPs upregulated the expression trait factors for ERS (e.g., immunoglobulin-binding protein [BIP], inositol-requiring protein 1α [IRE1α], X-box-binding protein 1 splicing [XBP1s], Jun kinase [JNK], and the transcription of CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein (C/EBP) homologous protein [CHOP]) and downstream apoptotic modulator (e.g., Caspase-12, -9, and -3) in the testis. The steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR), the testosterone synthetic initiator, was also downregulated. With the supplementation of ERS inhibitor, the MPs-induced testicular damage and decreased testosterone were improved to almost normal level. Overall, this study suggested that PS-MPs generate reproductive toxicity possibly via activating ERS and apoptosis signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siyue Wen
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330047, China
| | - Yanbiao Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330047, China
| | - Yizhou Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330047, China
| | - Yu Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330047, China
| | - Shanji Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330047, China
| | - Tao You
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330047, China
| | - Hengyi Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330047, China.
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Xia Y, Hao L, Li Y, Li Y, Chen J, Li L, Han X, Liu Y, Wang X, Li D. Embryonic 6:2 FTOH exposure causes reproductive toxicity by disrupting the formation of the blood-testis barrier in offspring mice. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2023; 250:114497. [PMID: 36608565 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.114497] [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: 09/27/2022] [Revised: 12/31/2022] [Accepted: 01/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Previous studies have revealed nephrotoxicity, hepatotoxicity, subchronic developmental and reproductive toxicity in rats exposed to fluorotelomer alcohol (FTOH). However, the effects of embryonic 6:2 FTOH exposure on the reproductive system of offspring mice remain unclear. The purpose of this study is to explore the reproductive toxic effects of embryonic 6:2 FTOH exposure on offspring male mice and the related molecular mechanisms. Therefore, the pregnant mice were given corn oil or 6:2 FTOH by gavage from gestational days 12.5-21.5. The results demonstrated that embryonic 6:2 FTOH exposure resulted in disrupted testicular structure, low expression of tight junction protein between Sertoli cells (SCs), impaired blood-testis barrier (BTB) formation and maturation, reduced sperm viability and increased malformation, and induced testicular inflammation in the offspring of mice. Further in vitro studies showed that 6:2 FTOH treatment upregulated MMP-8 expression by activating AKT/NF-κB signaling pathway, which in turn enhanced occludin cleavage leading to the disruption of SCs barrier integrity. In summary, this study demonstrated that 6:2 FTOH exposure caused reproductive dysfunction in male offspring through disruption of BTB, which provided new insights into the effects of 6:2 FTOH exposure on the offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunhui Xia
- Immunology and Reproduction Biology Laboratory & State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210093, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210093, China
| | - Lanxiang Hao
- Endocrinology Department, Yancheng First Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School; The First people's Hospital of Yancheng, Yancheng, Jiangsu 224001, China
| | - Yueyang Li
- Institute of Advanced Synthesis, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 211816, China
| | - Yifan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Coordination Chemistry, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Advanced Organic Materials, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210023, China
| | - Junhan Chen
- Immunology and Reproduction Biology Laboratory & State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210093, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210093, China
| | - Lei Li
- Endocrinology Department, Yancheng First Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School; The First people's Hospital of Yancheng, Yancheng, Jiangsu 224001, China
| | - Xiaodong Han
- Immunology and Reproduction Biology Laboratory & State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210093, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210093, China
| | - Yanmei Liu
- Endocrinology Department, Yancheng First Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School; The First people's Hospital of Yancheng, Yancheng, Jiangsu 224001, China.
| | - Xiaojian Wang
- Institute of Advanced Synthesis, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 211816, China.
| | - Dongmei Li
- Immunology and Reproduction Biology Laboratory & State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210093, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210093, China.
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Corpuz-Hilsabeck M, Culty M. Impact of endocrine disrupting chemicals and pharmaceuticals on Sertoli cell development and functions. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1095894. [PMID: 36793282 PMCID: PMC9922725 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1095894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Sertoli cells play essential roles in male reproduction, from supporting fetal testis development to nurturing male germ cells from fetal life to adulthood. Dysregulating Sertoli cell functions can have lifelong adverse effects by jeopardizing early processes such as testis organogenesis, and long-lasting processes such as spermatogenesis. Exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) is recognized as contributing to the rising incidence of male reproductive disorders and decreasing sperm counts and quality in humans. Some drugs also act as endocrine disruptors by exerting off-target effects on endocrine tissues. However, the mechanisms of toxicity of these compounds on male reproduction at doses compatible with human exposure are still not fully resolved, especially in the case of mixtures, which remain understudied. This review presents first an overview of the mechanisms regulating Sertoli cell development, maintenance, and functions, and then surveys what is known on the impact of EDCs and drugs on immature Sertoli cells, including individual compounds and mixtures, and pinpointing at knowledge gaps. Performing more studies on the impact of mixtures of EDCs and drugs at all ages is crucial to fully understand the adverse outcomes these chemicals may induce on the reproductive system.
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NGF regulates sertoli cell growth and prevents LPS-induced junction protein damage via PI3K/AKT/NFκB signaling. Theriogenology 2023; 195:138-148. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2022.10.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Revised: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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Wang P, Liu D, Yan S, Liang Y, Cui J, Guo L, Ren S, Chen P. The Role of Ferroptosis in the Damage of Human Proximal Tubule Epithelial Cells Caused by Perfluorooctane Sulfonate. TOXICS 2022; 10:toxics10080436. [PMID: 36006114 PMCID: PMC9414058 DOI: 10.3390/toxics10080436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Revised: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) is a typical persistent organic pollutant and environmental endocrine disruptor that has been shown to be associated with the development of many diseases; it poses a considerable threat to the ecological environment and to human health. PFOS is known to cause damage to renal cells; however, studies of PFOS-induced ferroptosis in cells have not been reported. We used the CCK-8 method to detect cell viability, flow cytometry and immunofluorescence methods to detect ROS levels and Western blot to detect ferroptosis, endoplasmic reticulum stress, antioxidant and apoptosis-related proteins. In our study, we found that PFOS could induce the onset of ferroptosis in HK-2 cells with decreased GPx4 expression and elevated ACSL4 and FTH1 expression, which are hallmarks for the development of ferroptosis. In addition, PFOS-induced ferroptosis in HK-2 cells could be reversed by Fer-1. We also found that endoplasmic reticulum stress and its mediated apoptotic mechanism and P53-mediated antioxidant mechanism are involved in the toxic damage of cells by PFOS. In this paper, we demonstrated for the first time that PFOS can induce ferroptosis in HK-2 cells. In addition, we preliminarily explored other mechanisms of cytotoxic damage by PFOS, which provides a new idea to study the toxicity of PFOS as well as the damage to the kidney and its mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pingwei Wang
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China; (P.W.); (D.L.); (S.Y.); (Y.L.); (J.C.); (S.R.)
| | - Dongge Liu
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China; (P.W.); (D.L.); (S.Y.); (Y.L.); (J.C.); (S.R.)
| | - Shuqi Yan
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China; (P.W.); (D.L.); (S.Y.); (Y.L.); (J.C.); (S.R.)
| | - Yujun Liang
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China; (P.W.); (D.L.); (S.Y.); (Y.L.); (J.C.); (S.R.)
| | - Jiajing Cui
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China; (P.W.); (D.L.); (S.Y.); (Y.L.); (J.C.); (S.R.)
| | - Li Guo
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China;
| | - Shuping Ren
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China; (P.W.); (D.L.); (S.Y.); (Y.L.); (J.C.); (S.R.)
| | - Peng Chen
- Department of Pediatrics, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130041, China
- Correspondence:
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Jiang L, Hong Y, Xiao P, Wang X, Zhang J, Liu E, Li H, Cai Z. The Role of Fecal Microbiota in Liver Toxicity Induced by Perfluorooctane Sulfonate in Male and Female Mice. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2022; 130:67009. [PMID: 35759388 PMCID: PMC9236209 DOI: 10.1289/ehp10281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Revised: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) is a persistent organic pollutant that can cause hepatotoxicity. The underlying toxicological mechanism remains to be investigated. Given the critical role of fecal microbiota in liver function, it is possible that fecal microbiota may contribute to the liver toxicity induced by PFOS. OBJECTIVES We aimed to investigate the role of liver-fecal microbiota axis in modulating PFOS-induced liver injury in mice. METHODS Male and female mice were exposed to PFOS or vehicle for 14 d. In this investigation, 16S rDNA sequencing and metabolomic profiling were performed to identify the perturbed fecal microbiota and altered metabolites with PFOS exposure. In addition, antibiotic treatment, fecal microbiota transplantation, and bacterial administration were conducted to validate the causal role of fecal microbiota in mediating PFOS-induced liver injury and explore the potential underlying mechanisms. RESULTS Both male and female mice exposed to PFOS exhibited liver inflammation and steatosis, which were accompanied by fecal microbiota dysbiosis and the disturbance of amino acid metabolism in comparison with control groups. The hepatic lesions were fecal microbiota-dependent, as supported by antibiotic treatment and fecal microbiota transplantation. Mice with altered fecal microbiota in antibiotic treatment or fecal microbiota transplantation experiments exhibited altered arginine concentrations in the liver and feces. Notably, we observed sex-specific lower levels of key microbiota, including Lactobacillus, Enterococcus, and Akkermansia. Mice treated with specific bacteria showed lower arginine levels and lower expression of the phosphorylated mTOR and P70S6K, suggesting lower activity of the related pathway and mitigation of the pathological differences observed in PFOS-exposed mice. CONCLUSIONS Our study demonstrated the critical role of the fecal microbiota in PFOS-induced liver injury in mice. We also identified several critical bacteria that could protect against liver injury induced by PFOS in male and female mice. Our present research provided novel insights into the mechanism of PFOS-induced liver injury in mice. https://doi.org/10.1289/EHP10281.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lilong Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental and Biological Analysis, Department of Chemistry, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Hong Kong Baptist University Institute for Research and Continuing Education, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yanjun Hong
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental and Biological Analysis, Department of Chemistry, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Hong Kong Baptist University Institute for Research and Continuing Education, Shenzhen, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences (Shenzhen), Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Pingting Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiaoxiao Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental and Biological Analysis, Department of Chemistry, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Jinghui Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental and Biological Analysis, Department of Chemistry, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Ehu Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Huijun Li
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zongwei Cai
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental and Biological Analysis, Department of Chemistry, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong SAR, China
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Rajkumar A, Luu T, Hales BF, Robaire B. High Content Imaging Analyses of the Effects of Bisphenols and Organophosphate Esters on TM4 Mouse Sertoli Cells. Biol Reprod 2022; 107:858-868. [PMID: 35596243 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac101] [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: 01/31/2022] [Revised: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The endocrine disruptive effects of bisphenol A (BPA) and brominated flame retardants (BDE-47) have led to restrictions to their use and increased the pressure to identify safe replacements for these chemicals. Although there is evidence that some of these alternatives may be toxic to spermatogonial and Leydig cells, little is known about the toxicity of emerging replacements on Sertoli cells, one of the major testicular cell types. We used high-content imaging to compare the effects of legacy chemicals, BPA and BDE-47, to their corresponding replacements. TM4 Sertoli cells were exposed for 48 h to each chemical (0.001-100 μM) followed by cytotoxicity and phenotypic endpoint assessment. The benchmark concentration (BMC) potency ranking for bisphenols based on cytotoxicity was BPTMC>BPM > BPAF>BPF > BPS > BPA. Human administered equivalent dose (AED) determination ranked BPS as most potent alternative replacement studied. The BMC potency ranking of BDE-47 and organophosphate esters based on cytotoxicity was TDtBPP>BDMPP>TBOEP>TDCPP>TMPP>TPHP> BDE47 > IPPP=BPDP = TCPP. Additionally, TM4 cell exposure to BDE-47 increased Calcein intensity (57.9 μM) and affected lysosomes (21.6 μM), while exposure to TPHP and TMPP resulted in cellular oxidative stress changes at BMC values as low as 0.01 μM and 0.4 μM, respectively. Overall bioactivity considerations of the chemicals on TM4 via ToxPi analyses and AED modeling further validated emerging replacements as highly potent chemicals in comparison to BPA and BDE-47. These findings demonstrate that many bisphenol and flame retardant replacements are more potent in Sertoli cells than the legacy chemical they are replacing, and that phenotypic parameter assessment is an effective tool in chemical toxicity assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abishankari Rajkumar
- Department of Pharmacology & Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada, H3G 1Y6
| | - Trang Luu
- Department of Pharmacology & Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada, H3G 1Y6
| | - Barbara F Hales
- Department of Pharmacology & Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada, H3G 1Y6
| | - Bernard Robaire
- Department of Pharmacology & Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada, H3G 1Y6.,Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada. H3G 1Y6
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Guarnotta V, Amodei R, Frasca F, Aversa A, Giordano C. Impact of Chemical Endocrine Disruptors and Hormone Modulators on the Endocrine System. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23105710. [PMID: 35628520 PMCID: PMC9145289 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23105710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Revised: 05/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
There is growing concern regarding the health and safety issues of endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs). Long-term exposure to EDCs has alarming adverse health effects through both hormone-direct and hormone-indirect pathways. Non-chemical agents, including physical agents such as artificial light, radiation, temperature, and stress exposure, are currently poorly investigated, even though they can seriously affect the endocrine system, by modulation of hormonal action. Several mechanisms have been suggested to explain the interference of EDCs with hormonal activity. However, difficulty in quantifying the exposure, low standardization of studies, and the presence of confounding factors do not allow the establishment of a causal relationship between endocrine disorders and exposure to specific toxic agents. In this review, we focus on recent findings on the effects of EDCs and hormone system modulators on the endocrine system, including the thyroid, parathyroid glands, adrenal steroidogenesis, beta-cell function, and male and female reproductive function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Guarnotta
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties “G. D’Alessandro” (PROMISE), Section of Endocrinology, University of Palermo, Piazza delle Cliniche 2, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (V.G.); (R.A.)
| | - Roberta Amodei
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties “G. D’Alessandro” (PROMISE), Section of Endocrinology, University of Palermo, Piazza delle Cliniche 2, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (V.G.); (R.A.)
| | - Francesco Frasca
- Endocrinology Section, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Garibaldi Nesima Hospital, University of Catania, 95122 Catania, Italy;
| | - Antonio Aversa
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Section of Endocrinology, Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy;
| | - Carla Giordano
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties “G. D’Alessandro” (PROMISE), Section of Endocrinology, University of Palermo, Piazza delle Cliniche 2, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (V.G.); (R.A.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0916552110
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Flurochloridone Induced Cell Apoptosis via ER Stress and eIF2α-ATF4/ATF6-CHOP-Bim/Bax Signaling Pathways in Mouse TM4 Sertoli Cells. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19084564. [PMID: 35457433 PMCID: PMC9024663 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19084564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2022] [Revised: 04/03/2022] [Accepted: 04/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Flurochloridone (FLC), as a novel herbicide, has been widely used in many countries since 1980s. Current studies have shown that FLC has toxic effects on male reproduction and its target organ is testis, while the underlying mechanism is still unknown. Mouse testis Sertoli cell line TM4 cells were used as an in vitro model and treated with FLC at different doses (40, 80, 160 μM) for different times (6, 12, 24 h). Cell viability, cytotoxicity and apoptotic cells were detected by CCK-8 assay, LDH leakage assay and flow cytometry. The protein levels of GRP78, phosphorylated-eIF2α, ATF4, ATF6, CHOP, Bim and Bax were observed by Western Blot and Immunofluorescence staining. FLC inhibited cell viability and induced cytotoxicity in dose-dependent way in TM4 cells. The percentage of apoptotic cells were 6.2% ± 0.6%, 7.3% ± 0.3%, 9.8% ± 0.4%, 13.2% ± 0.2%, respectively. The expression levels of ER stress and UPR related proteins were activated over dose. Meanwhile, the pro-apoptotic proteins (Bim and Bax) were also up-regulated in dose-dependent. After pretreated with ISRIB, the inhibitor of eIF2α phosphorylation, the elevated expression of GRP78, phosphorylated-eIF2α, ATF4, ATF6, CHOP and Bim was down to normal level accordingly. In conclusion, FLC induced apoptosis in TM4 cells mediated by UPR signaling pathways.
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22
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Zhang Y, Wu X, Zhu K, Liu S, Yang Y, Yuan D, Wang T, He Y, Dun Y, Wu J, Zhang C, Zhao H. Icariin attenuates perfluorooctane sulfonate-induced testicular toxicity by alleviating Sertoli cell injury and downregulating the p38MAPK/MMP9 pathway. Food Funct 2022; 13:3674-3689. [PMID: 35262540 DOI: 10.1039/d1fo04135e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) is widely recognized as causing Sertoli cell injury and testicular toxicity in males. Icariin is a flavonoid from Epimedium, which effectively improves spermatogenesis disturbance induced by several factors in clinic. However, it is unclear whether icariin improves PFOS-induced testicular toxicity. In vivo, fifty-two male mice were randomly separated into four groups: normal control group, model group, and low and high doses of icariin-treated groups, with 13 mice in each group. Except for the normal control group, the mice in the model group and icariin-treated groups were administered PFOS (10 mg kg-1) by gavage daily for 28 consecutive days, and concurrently treated with a diet containing different doses of icariin (0, 5 or 20 mg kg-1). In vitro, TM4 cells were treated with 150 μM PFOS to induce Sertoli cell injury, and were then utilized for icariin treatment. Our results demonstrated that icariin attenuated PFOS-induced testicular toxicity by increasing the testicular, epididymal and seminal vesicle weights, epididymal and seminal vesicle indices, sperm parameters, and seminiferous epithelium height. In addition, icariin improved the PFOS-induced blood-testis barrier (BTB) disruption by alleviating the Sertoli cell junctional injury, but without affecting Sertoli cell numbers in the testis of mice. Moreover, icariin increased the expression levels of tight junction proteins (ZO-1, Occludin and Claudin-11) and gap junction proteins (CX43 and p-CX43), and decreased the expression levels of p-p38MAPK and matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP9) both in vivo and in vitro. Furthermore, alleviation of the Sertoli cell injury by icariin exerted similar effects as SB203580 (an inhibitor of p38MAPK) in TM4 cells. This study revealed that icariin effectively reduces PFOS-induced testicular toxicity by alleviating the Sertoli cell injury and downregulating the p38MAPK/MMP9 pathway, indicating that icariin may be an attractive dietary supplement for the intervention of PFOS-induced testicular dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Zhang
- Third-grade Pharmacological Laboratory on Traditional Chinese Medicine, State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, Hubei, 443002, China.
- Medical College, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, Hubei, 443002, China
| | - Xiaoping Wu
- Third-grade Pharmacological Laboratory on Traditional Chinese Medicine, State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, Hubei, 443002, China.
- Medical College, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, Hubei, 443002, China
| | - Kaili Zhu
- Third-grade Pharmacological Laboratory on Traditional Chinese Medicine, State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, Hubei, 443002, China.
| | - Shangyu Liu
- Third-grade Pharmacological Laboratory on Traditional Chinese Medicine, State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, Hubei, 443002, China.
| | - Yuan Yang
- Third-grade Pharmacological Laboratory on Traditional Chinese Medicine, State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, Hubei, 443002, China.
| | - Ding Yuan
- Third-grade Pharmacological Laboratory on Traditional Chinese Medicine, State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, Hubei, 443002, China.
| | - Ting Wang
- Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Occupational Hazard Identification and Control, Department of Pharmacy, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430081, China
| | - Yumin He
- Third-grade Pharmacological Laboratory on Traditional Chinese Medicine, State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, Hubei, 443002, China.
| | - Yaoyan Dun
- Third-grade Pharmacological Laboratory on Traditional Chinese Medicine, State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, Hubei, 443002, China.
| | - Jie Wu
- Material Analysis and Testing Center, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, Hubei, 443002, China
| | - Changcheng Zhang
- Third-grade Pharmacological Laboratory on Traditional Chinese Medicine, State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, Hubei, 443002, China.
- Medical College, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, Hubei, 443002, China
| | - Haixia Zhao
- Third-grade Pharmacological Laboratory on Traditional Chinese Medicine, State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, Hubei, 443002, China.
- Medical College, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, Hubei, 443002, China
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23
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Perfluorooctane sulfonate and perfluorooctanoic acid induce plasma membrane dysfunction in boar spermatozoa during in vitro capacitation. Reprod Toxicol 2022; 110:85-96. [DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2022.03.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2021] [Revised: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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Wang L, Bu T, Wu X, Gao S, Li X, De Jesus AB, Wong CKC, Chen H, Chung NPY, Sun F, Cheng CY. Cell-Cell Interaction-Mediated Signaling in the Testis Induces Reproductive Dysfunction—Lesson from the Toxicant/Pharmaceutical Models. Cells 2022; 11:cells11040591. [PMID: 35203242 PMCID: PMC8869896 DOI: 10.3390/cells11040591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Revised: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Emerging evidence has shown that cell-cell interactions between testicular cells, in particular at the Sertoli cell-cell and Sertoli-germ cell interface, are crucial to support spermatogenesis. The unique ultrastructures that support cell-cell interactions in the testis are the basal ES (ectoplasmic specialization) and the apical ES. The basal ES is found between adjacent Sertoli cells near the basement membrane that also constitute the blood-testis barrier (BTB). The apical ES is restrictively expressed at the Sertoli-spermatid contact site in the apical (adluminal) compartment of the seminiferous epithelium. These ultrastructures are present in both rodent and human testes, but the majority of studies found in the literature were done in rodent testes. As such, our discussion herein, unless otherwise specified, is focused on studies in testes of adult rats. Studies have shown that the testicular cell-cell interactions crucial to support spermatogenesis are mediated through distinctive signaling proteins and pathways, most notably involving FAK, Akt1/2 and Cdc42 GTPase. Thus, manipulation of some of these signaling proteins, such as FAK, through the use of phosphomimetic mutants for overexpression in Sertoli cell epithelium in vitro or in the testis in vivo, making FAK either constitutively active or inactive, we can modify the outcome of spermatogenesis. For instance, using the toxicant-induced Sertoli cell or testis injury in rats as study models, we can either block or rescue toxicant-induced infertility through overexpression of p-FAK-Y397 or p-FAK-Y407 (and their mutants), including the use of specific activator(s) of the involved signaling proteins against pAkt1/2. These findings thus illustrate that a potential therapeutic approach can be developed to manage toxicant-induced male reproductive dysfunction. In this review, we critically evaluate these recent findings, highlighting the direction for future investigations by bringing the laboratory-based research through a translation path to clinical investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingling Wang
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310016, China; (L.W.); (T.B.); (X.W.); (S.G.)
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong 226001, China; (X.L.); (H.C.)
| | - Tiao Bu
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310016, China; (L.W.); (T.B.); (X.W.); (S.G.)
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong 226001, China; (X.L.); (H.C.)
| | - Xiaolong Wu
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310016, China; (L.W.); (T.B.); (X.W.); (S.G.)
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong 226001, China; (X.L.); (H.C.)
| | - Sheng Gao
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310016, China; (L.W.); (T.B.); (X.W.); (S.G.)
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong 226001, China; (X.L.); (H.C.)
| | - Xinyao Li
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong 226001, China; (X.L.); (H.C.)
| | | | - Chris K. C. Wong
- Department of Biology, Croucher Institute for Environmental Sciences, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China;
| | - Hao Chen
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong 226001, China; (X.L.); (H.C.)
| | - Nancy P. Y. Chung
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10065, USA;
| | - Fei Sun
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310016, China; (L.W.); (T.B.); (X.W.); (S.G.)
- Correspondence: (F.S.); (C.Y.C.)
| | - C. Yan Cheng
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310016, China; (L.W.); (T.B.); (X.W.); (S.G.)
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong 226001, China; (X.L.); (H.C.)
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, 1230 York Avenue, New York, NY 10065, USA
- Correspondence: (F.S.); (C.Y.C.)
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Wei Y, Zhou Y, Long C, Wu H, Hong Y, Fu Y, Wang J, Wu Y, Shen L, Wei G. Polystyrene microplastics disrupt the blood-testis barrier integrity through ROS-Mediated imbalance of mTORC1 and mTORC2. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2021; 289:117904. [PMID: 34371264 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2021.117904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2021] [Revised: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
It has been found that polystyrene microplastics (PS-MPs) exposure leads to decreased sperm quality and quantity, and we aim to explore the underlying mechanisms. Therefore, we gave 20 mg/kg body weight (bw) and 40 mg/kg bw 4 μm and 10 μm PS-MPs to male Balb/c mice by gavage. RNA sequencing of testes was performed. After PS-MPs exposure, blood-testis barrier (BTB) integrity was impaired. Since cytoskeleton was closely related to BTB integrity maintenance, and cytoskeleton disorganization could be induced by PS-MPs exposure in the testis, which resulted in the truncation of actin filaments and disruption of BTB integrity. Such processes were attributed to the differential expression of Arp3 and Eps8 (two of the most important actin-binding proteins). According to the transcriptome sequencing results, we examined the oxidative stress level in the testes and Sertoli cells. We found that PS-MPs exposure induced increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) level, which destroyed the balance between mTORC1 and mTORC2 (the mTORC1 activity was increased, while the mTORC2 activity was decreased). In conclusion, PS-MPs induced the imbalance of mTORC1 and mTORC2 via the ROS burst, and altered the expression profile of actin-binding proteins, resulting in F-actin disorganization and reduced expression of junctional proteins in the BTB. Eventually PS-MPs led to BTB integrity disruption and spermatogenesis dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuexin Wei
- Department of Urology, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400014, PR China; Pediatric Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400014, PR China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400014, PR China
| | - Yu Zhou
- Department of Urology, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400014, PR China; Pediatric Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400014, PR China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400014, PR China
| | - Chunlan Long
- Pediatric Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400014, PR China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400014, PR China
| | - Huan Wu
- Department of Urology, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400014, PR China; Pediatric Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400014, PR China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400014, PR China
| | - Yifan Hong
- Department of Urology, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400014, PR China; Pediatric Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400014, PR China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400014, PR China
| | - Yan Fu
- Department of Urology, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400014, PR China; Pediatric Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400014, PR China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400014, PR China
| | - Junke Wang
- Department of Urology, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400014, PR China; Pediatric Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400014, PR China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400014, PR China
| | - Yuhao Wu
- Department of Urology, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400014, PR China; Pediatric Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400014, PR China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400014, PR China
| | - Lianju Shen
- Pediatric Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400014, PR China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400014, PR China.
| | - Guanghui Wei
- Department of Urology, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400014, PR China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400014, PR China
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Wang C, Jin C, Tu W, Jin Y. Maternal exposure of mice to sodium p-perfluorous nonenoxybenzene sulfonate causes endocrine disruption in both dams and offspring. Endocr J 2021; 68:1165-1177. [PMID: 33980773 DOI: 10.1507/endocrj.ej20-0781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The toxicity of certain novel perfluoroalkyl substances (PFCs) has attracted increasing attention. However, the toxic effects of sodium p-perfluorous nonenoxybenzene sulfonate (OBS) on the endocrine system have not been elucidated. In this study, OBS was added to the drinking water during the pregnancy and lactation of the healthy female mice at dietary levels of 0.0 mg/L (CON), 0.5 mg/L (OBS-L), and 5.0 mg/L (OBS-H). OBS exposure during the pregnancy and lactation resulted in the presence of OBS residues in the placenta and fetus. We also analyzed physiological and biochemical parameters and gene expression levels in mice of the F0 and F1 generations after maternal OBS exposure. The total serum cholesterol (TC) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels were significantly increased in female mice of the F0 generation. The androgen levels in the serum and the ovarian mRNA levels of androgen receptor (AR) also tended to increase after maternal OBS exposure in the F0 generation mice. Moreover, maternal OBS exposure altered the mRNA expression of endocrine-related genes in male mice of F1 generation. Notably, the serum TC and LDL-C levels were significantly increased in 8-weeks-old male mice of the F1 generation, and the serum high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels were decreased in 24-week-old male mice of the F1 generation. These results indicated that maternal OBS exposure can interfere with endocrine homeostasis in the F0 and F1 generations. Therefore, exposure to OBS during pregnancy and lactation has the potential toxic effects on the dams and male offspring, which cannot be overlooked.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caiyun Wang
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310032, China
| | - Cuiyuan Jin
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310032, China
| | - Wenqing Tu
- Research Institute of Poyang Lake, Jiangxi Academy of Sciences, Nanchang 330029, China
| | - Yuanxiang Jin
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310032, China
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Jiang L, Hong Y, Xie G, Zhang J, Zhang H, Cai Z. Comprehensive multi-omics approaches reveal the hepatotoxic mechanism of perfluorohexanoic acid (PFHxA) in mice. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 790:148160. [PMID: 34380288 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.148160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2021] [Revised: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Perfluorohexanoic acid (PFHxA), one of the short-chain perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs), is considered as a substitute of perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS). This emerging organic pollutant is persistent and highly bioavailable to humans, raising concerns about its potential health risks. There are currently few researches on the toxicity of PFHxA. Liver has been suggested to be the main target of PFHxA toxicity, and the mechanism remains unclear. Herein, we investigated the transcriptomic, proteomic, and metabolomic landscape in PFHxA-exposed mice. Using these approaches, we identified several valuable biological processes involved in the process of liver injury, comprising fatty acid biosynthesis and degradation pathways, which might be induced by peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) signaling pathway. These processes further promoted oxidative stress and induced liver injury. Meanwhile, abnormalities in purine metabolism and glutathione metabolism were observed during the liver injury induced by PFHxA, indicating the production of oxidative stress. Finally, our present multi-omics studies provided new insights into the mechanisms involved in PFHxA-induced liver injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lilong Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental and Biological Analysis, Department of Chemistry, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China; Shenzhen Research Institute and Continuing Education, Hong Kong Baptist University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yanjun Hong
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental and Biological Analysis, Department of Chemistry, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China; Shenzhen Research Institute and Continuing Education, Hong Kong Baptist University, Shenzhen, China; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences (Shenzhen), Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China.
| | - Guangshan Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental and Biological Analysis, Department of Chemistry, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Jinghui Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental and Biological Analysis, Department of Chemistry, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Hongna Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental and Biological Analysis, Department of Chemistry, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China; Shenzhen Research Institute and Continuing Education, Hong Kong Baptist University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Zongwei Cai
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental and Biological Analysis, Department of Chemistry, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China.
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28
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Dong G, Zhang R, Huang H, Lu C, Xia Y, Wang X, Du G. Exploration of the developmental toxicity of TCS and PFOS to zebrafish embryos by whole-genome gene expression analyses. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 28:56032-56042. [PMID: 34046830 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-021-14527-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2020] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Triclosan (TCS) and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) are known to have both endocrine disrupting and developmental toxicity effects on zebrafish embryos. Currently, potential molecular mechanisms underlying these toxicological phenomena require further studies. To address this gap in the literature, we used whole transcriptome microarrays to being to address the potential molecular mechanisms underlying developmental toxicity of TCS and PFOS on zebrafish embryos. Zebrafish embryos were exposed to 300 μg/L TCS and 500 μg/L PFOS from 4 to 120 h post fertilization (hpf). Phenotypically, the hatching rate of zebrafish embryos was significantly reduced after TCS exposure at 72 hpf. Additionally, body length was significantly decreased in the TCS treatment group at 120 hpf. Gene ontology analysis of differentially expressed genes revealed that lipid metabolism, steroid metabolism, and organ development-related biological processes were significantly enriched in TCS- and PFOS-treated zebrafish embryos. Furthermore, signaling network analysis indicated that the steroid biosynthesis process was the most significant biological process disrupted by TCS in 120 hpf zebrafish embryos, while organ development was the most significant biological process disrupted by PFOS exposure. Our findings enhance the understanding of the specific types of embryotoxicity elicited by TCS and PFOS, and also provide information that can be used to inform future mechanistic studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guangzhu Dong
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, 211166, Nanjing, China
- Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Rui Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, 211166, Nanjing, China
- Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Hongyu Huang
- Department of Infection Management, Wuxi 9th People's Hospital Affiliated to Soochow University, Wuxi, China
| | - Chuncheng Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, 211166, Nanjing, China
- Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Yankai Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, 211166, Nanjing, China
- Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Xinru Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, 211166, Nanjing, China.
- Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China.
| | - Guizhen Du
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, 211166, Nanjing, China.
- Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China.
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29
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Wang HX, Zhang R, Li Z, Wang LS, Yu Y, Wang Q, Ding Z, Zhang JP, Zhang MR, Xu LC. Cypermethrin induces Sertoli cell apoptosis through mitochondrial pathway associated with calcium. Toxicol Res (Camb) 2021; 10:742-750. [PMID: 34484665 DOI: 10.1093/toxres/tfab056] [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: 01/22/2021] [Revised: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cypermethrin, one kind of pyrethroid pesticides, has been shown to act as endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs). The purpose of this study was to explore the roles of Sertoli cell apoptosis through mitochondrial pathway associated with calcium (Ca2+) in cypermethrin-induced male reproductive toxicology. The mouse Sertoli cells TM4 were cultured with 0 μM, 10 μM, 20 μM, 40 μM and 80 μM of cypermethrin. We used flow cytometry, Fluo-4 AM, western blot and JC-1 Assay Kit to examine apoptosis, intracellular Ca2+, expressions of mitochondrial apoptotic pathway-related proteins and mitochondrial membrane potential. We found cypermethrin increased apoptosis rate of TM4 cells significantly and with a significant increase in intracellular Ca2+ concentration. Cypermethrin significantly decreased the protein expressions of cytosolic B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) and mitochondrial cytochrome c (Cyt-c). The protein expressions of cytosolic Bcl-2-associated x (Bax), Cyt-c, cleaved caspase-3, calmodulin (CaM), Ca2+/CaM-dependent protein kinases II (CaMKII) and phosphorylated CaMKII were increased significantly in cypermethrin-exposed TM4 cells. Cypermethrin decreased mitochondrial membrane potential significantly. Then, Bcl-2 family and Ca2+/CaM/CaMKII pathway participate in cypermethrin-induced homeostasis. Ca2+ overload activates mitochondrial pathway by increasing permeability of mitochondrial membrane and decreasing mitochondrial membrane potential. We suggest cypermethrin induces Sertoli cell apoptosis involving mitochondrial pathway associated with Ca2+ regulated by Bcl-2 family and Ca2+/CaM/CaMKII pathway. The study provides a new insight into mechanisms involved in cypermethrin-induced male reproductive toxicology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heng-Xue Wang
- Key Lab of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou 221004, 209 Tong-Shan Road, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Rui Zhang
- Key Lab of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou 221004, 209 Tong-Shan Road, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zheng Li
- Key Lab of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou 221004, 209 Tong-Shan Road, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Lu-Shan Wang
- Key Lab of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou 221004, 209 Tong-Shan Road, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yue Yu
- Key Lab of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou 221004, 209 Tong-Shan Road, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Qi Wang
- Key Lab of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou 221004, 209 Tong-Shan Road, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zhen Ding
- Key Lab of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou 221004, 209 Tong-Shan Road, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jin-Peng Zhang
- Key Lab of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou 221004, 209 Tong-Shan Road, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Mei-Rong Zhang
- Key Lab of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou 221004, 209 Tong-Shan Road, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Li-Chun Xu
- Key Lab of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou 221004, 209 Tong-Shan Road, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
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30
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Ham J, Yun BH, Lim W, Song G. Folpet induces mitochondrial dysfunction and ROS-mediated apoptosis in mouse Sertoli cells. PESTICIDE BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2021; 177:104903. [PMID: 34301364 DOI: 10.1016/j.pestbp.2021.104903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Revised: 06/07/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Folpet is a phthalimide type of fungicide and has been used to control several crop diseases. Although it has adverse effects on the gastrointestinal tract, its mechanism and toxic effects on testis have not been demonstrated. In the present study, we elucidated the cytotoxic effect of folpet on the mouse Sertoli cell line, TM4. Our results revealed that folpet suppressed viability and proliferative capacity of TM4 cells and further inhibited 3D spheroid formation. Moreover, folpet impeded appropriate cell cycle progression and induced apoptotic cell death in TM4 cells. It disrupted the electrochemical gradient of mitochondria and calcium homeostasis in TM4 cells. Furthermore, endoplasmic reticulum stress-related proteins were activated in folpet-treated TM4 cells, and relative reactive oxygen species (ROS) production was also increased. N-acetylcysteine (NAC) treatment reinstated the folpet-induced ROS generation in TM4 cells. Additionally, NAC restored the proliferative capacity and reduced the apoptotic cells in folpet-treated TM4 cells. Collectively, we demonstrated that folpet causes ROS-mediated apoptotic cell death with mitochondrial dysfunction and calcium dysregulation in TM4 cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiyeon Ham
- Institute of Animal Molecular Biotechnology and Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Bo Hyun Yun
- Institute of Animal Molecular Biotechnology and Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Whasun Lim
- Department of Food and Nutrition, College of Science and Technology, Kookmin University, Seoul 02707, Republic of Korea.
| | - Gwonhwa Song
- Institute of Animal Molecular Biotechnology and Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea.
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31
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Qu J, Han Y, Zhao Z, Wu Y, Lu Y, Chen G, Jiang J, Qiu L, Gu A, Wang X. Perfluorooctane sulfonate interferes with non-genomic estrogen receptor signaling pathway, inhibits ERK1/2 activation and induces apoptosis in mouse spermatocyte-derived cells. Toxicology 2021; 460:152871. [PMID: 34303733 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2021.152871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2021] [Revised: 07/17/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) is a widespread persistent organic pollutant. Both epidemiological survey and our previous in vivo study have revealed the associations between PFOS exposure and spermatogenesis disorder, while the underlying mechanisms are far from clear. In the present study, GC-2 cells, a mouse spermatocyte-derived cell line, was used to investigate the toxic effects of PFOS and its hypothetical mechanism of action. GC-2 cells were treated with PFOS (0, 50, 100 and 150 μM) for 24 h or 48 h. Results demonstrated that PFOS dose-dependently inhibited cell viability, induced G0/G1 cell cycle arrest and triggered apoptosis, which might be partly explained by the decrease in cyclin D1, PCNA and Bcl-2 protein expression; increase in Bax protein expression; and activation of caspase-9, -3. In addition, PFOS did not directly transactivate or repress estrogen receptors (ERs) in gene reporter assays, whereas the protein levels of both ERα and ERβ were significantly altered and the downstream ERK1/2 phosphorylation was inhibited by PFOS. Furthermore, pretreatment with specific ERα agonist PPT (1 μM) significantly attenuated the above PFOS-induced effects while specific ERβ agonist DPN (1 μM) accelerated them. These results suggest that PFOS may induce growth inhibition and apoptosis via non-genomic estrogen receptor/ERK1/2 signaling pathway in GC-2 cells, which provides a novel insight regarding the potential role of ERs in mediating PFOS-triggered spermatocyte toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianhua Qu
- School of Public Health, Nantong University, 9 Seyuan Road, Nantong, 226019, China.
| | - Yu Han
- School of Public Health, Nantong University, 9 Seyuan Road, Nantong, 226019, China
| | - Ziyan Zhao
- School of Public Health, Nantong University, 9 Seyuan Road, Nantong, 226019, China
| | - Yuan Wu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Jiangsu Cancer Hospital, Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Ying Lu
- School of Public Health, Nantong University, 9 Seyuan Road, Nantong, 226019, China
| | - Gang Chen
- School of Public Health, Nantong University, 9 Seyuan Road, Nantong, 226019, China
| | - Junkang Jiang
- School of Public Health, Nantong University, 9 Seyuan Road, Nantong, 226019, China
| | - Lianglin Qiu
- School of Public Health, Nantong University, 9 Seyuan Road, Nantong, 226019, China
| | - Aihua Gu
- Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Xinru Wang
- Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
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32
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Lycium barbarum Polysaccharide Ameliorates Heat-Stress-Induced Impairment of Primary Sertoli Cells and the Blood-Testis Barrier in Rat via Androgen Receptor and Akt Phosphorylation. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2021; 2021:5574202. [PMID: 34211569 PMCID: PMC8187067 DOI: 10.1155/2021/5574202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2021] [Revised: 04/07/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Male infertility induced by heat stress has been attracting more and more attention. Heat stress not only causes apoptosis of spermatocytes but also has adverse effects on Sertoli cells, further damaging spermatogenesis. Lycium barbarum polysaccharide (LBP) is the main bioactive component of Lycium barbarum, which has a protective effect on male reproduction, but its mechanism is still unclear. In this study, our results proved that LBP blocked the inhibitory effect on the proliferation activity of Sertoli cells after heat stress, reversed the dedifferentiation of Sertoli cells induced by heat stress, and ameliorated the structural integrity of the blood-testis barrier. In addition, it increased the expression of the androgen receptor and activated Akt signaling pathway to resist heat-stress-induced injury of Sertoli cells.
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33
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Cargnelutti F, Di Nisio A, Pallotti F, Sabovic I, Spaziani M, Tarsitano MG, Paoli D, Foresta C. Effects of endocrine disruptors on fetal testis development, male puberty, and transition age. Endocrine 2021; 72:358-374. [PMID: 32757113 PMCID: PMC8128728 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-020-02436-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2020] [Accepted: 07/23/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Endocrine disruptors (EDs) are exogenous substances able to impair endocrine system; consequently, they may cause numerous adverse effects. Over the last years, particular focus has been given to their harmful effects on reproductive system, but very little is known, especially in males. The aim of this review is to discuss the detrimental effects of EDs exposure on fetal testis development, male puberty, and transition age. METHODS A search for the existing literature focusing on the impact of EDs on fetal testis development, male puberty, andrological parameters (anogenital distance, penile length, and testicular volume), and testicular cancer with particular regard to pubertal age provided the most current information available for this review. Human evidence-based reports were given priority over animal and in vitro experimental results. Given the paucity of available articles on this subject, all resources were given careful consideration. RESULTS Information about the consequences associated with EDs exposure in the current literature is limited and often conflicting, due to the scarcity of human studies and their heterogeneity. CONCLUSIONS We conclude that current evidence does not clarify the impact of EDs on human male reproductive health, although severe harmful effects had been reported in animals. Despite controversial results, overall conclusion points toward a positive association between exposure to EDs and reproductive system damage. Further long-term studies performed on wide number of subjects are necessary in order to identify damaging compounds and remove them from the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Cargnelutti
- Laboratory of Seminology-Sperm Bank "Loredana Gandini", Department of Experimental Medicine, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Di Nisio
- Department of Medicine, Operative Unit of Andrology and Medicine of Human Reproduction, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani, 2, 35128, Padua, Italy
| | - Francesco Pallotti
- Laboratory of Seminology-Sperm Bank "Loredana Gandini", Department of Experimental Medicine, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Iva Sabovic
- Department of Medicine, Operative Unit of Andrology and Medicine of Human Reproduction, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani, 2, 35128, Padua, Italy
| | - Matteo Spaziani
- Department of Experimental Medicine, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Grazia Tarsitano
- Department of Experimental Medicine, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Donatella Paoli
- Laboratory of Seminology-Sperm Bank "Loredana Gandini", Department of Experimental Medicine, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161, Rome, Italy.
| | - Carlo Foresta
- Department of Medicine, Operative Unit of Andrology and Medicine of Human Reproduction, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani, 2, 35128, Padua, Italy
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34
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Khan EA, Zhang X, Hanna EM, Yadetie F, Jonassen I, Goksøyr A, Arukwe A. Application of quantitative transcriptomics in evaluating the ex vivo effects of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances on Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua) ovarian physiology. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 755:142904. [PMID: 33138996 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.142904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2020] [Revised: 09/08/2020] [Accepted: 10/02/2020] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Because of their global consumption and persistence, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs), are ubiquitously distributed in the environment, as well as in wildlife and humans. In the present study, we have employed an ex vivo organ culture technique, based on the floating agarose method, of Atlantic cod ovarian tissue to investigate the effects of three different concentrations of PFOS, PFOA (1, 5 and 25 μM) and PFNA (0.5, 5 and 50 μM), used singly and in also in combination (1×, 20× and 100×). In the 1× exposure mixture, concentrations were decided based on their proportional levels (in molar equivalents) relative to PFOS, which is the most abundant PFAS in cod liver from a 2013 screening project. To investigate the detailed underlying mechanisms and biological processes, transcriptome sequencing was performed on exposed ovarian tissue. The number of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) having at least 0.75 log2-fold change was elevated in high, compared to low and medium concentration exposures. The highest PFNA, PFOA and PFOS concentrations, and the highest (100×) mixture exposure, showed 40, 68, 1295, and 802 DEGs, respectively. The latter two exposure groups shared a maximum of 438 DEGs. In addition, they both shared the majority of functionally enriched pathways belonging to biological processes such as cellular signaling, cell adhesion, lipid metabolism, immunological responses, cancer, reproduction and metabolism. Shortlisted DEGs that were specifically annotated to reproduction associated gene ontology (GO) terms were observed only in the highest PFOS and mixture exposure groups. These transcripts contributed to ovarian key events such as steroidogenesis (star, cyp19a1a), oocyte growth (amh), maturation (igfbp5b, tgfβ2, tgfβ3), and ovulation (pgr, mmp2). Contrary to other PFAS congeners, the highest PFOS concentration showed almost similar transcript expression patterns compared to the highest mixture exposure group. This indicates that PFOS is the active component of the mixture that significantly altered the normal functioning of female gonads, and possibly leading to serious reproductive consequences in teleosts.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Xiaokang Zhang
- Computational Biology Unit, Department of Informatics, University of Bergen, Norway
| | - Eileen Marie Hanna
- Computational Biology Unit, Department of Informatics, University of Bergen, Norway
| | - Fekadu Yadetie
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Bergen, Norway
| | - Inge Jonassen
- Computational Biology Unit, Department of Informatics, University of Bergen, Norway
| | - Anders Goksøyr
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Bergen, Norway
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35
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Jin H, Ma T, Sha X, Liu Z, Zhou Y, Meng X, Chen Y, Han X, Ding J. Polystyrene microplastics induced male reproductive toxicity in mice. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2021; 401:123430. [PMID: 32659591 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2020.123430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 254] [Impact Index Per Article: 84.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2020] [Revised: 06/24/2020] [Accepted: 07/06/2020] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) have become hazardous materials, which have aroused widespread concern about their potential toxicity. However, the effects of MPs on reproductive systems in mammals are still ambiguous. In this study, the toxic effects of polystyrene MPs (PS-MPs) in male reproduction of mice were investigated. The results indicated that after exposure for 24 h, 4 μm and 10 μm PS-MPs accumulated in the testis of mice. Meanwhile, 0.5 μm, 4 μm, and 10 μm PS-MPs could enter into three kinds of testicular cells in vitro. In addition, sperm quality and testosterone level of mice were declined after exposure to 0.5 μm, 4 μm, and 10 μm PS-MPs for 28 days. H&E staining showed that spermatogenic cells abscissed and arranged disorderly, and multinucleated gonocytes occurred in the seminiferous tubule. Moreover, PS-MPs induced testicular inflammation and the disruption of blood-testis barrier. In summary, this study demonstrated that PS-MPs induced male reproductive dysfunctions in mice, which provided new insights into the toxicity of MPs in mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haibo Jin
- Immunology and Reproductive Biology Laboratory & State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Medical School, Nanjing University, Hankou Road 22, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210093, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210093, China.
| | - Tan Ma
- Immunology and Reproductive Biology Laboratory & State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Medical School, Nanjing University, Hankou Road 22, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210093, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210093, China.
| | - Xiaoxuan Sha
- Immunology and Reproductive Biology Laboratory & State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Medical School, Nanjing University, Hankou Road 22, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210093, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210093, China.
| | - Zhenyu Liu
- Immunology and Reproductive Biology Laboratory & State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Medical School, Nanjing University, Hankou Road 22, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210093, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210093, China.
| | - Yuan Zhou
- Immunology and Reproductive Biology Laboratory & State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Medical School, Nanjing University, Hankou Road 22, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210093, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210093, China.
| | - Xiannan Meng
- Immunology and Reproductive Biology Laboratory & State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Medical School, Nanjing University, Hankou Road 22, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210093, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210093, China.
| | - Yabing Chen
- Immunology and Reproductive Biology Laboratory & State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Medical School, Nanjing University, Hankou Road 22, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210093, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210093, China.
| | - Xiaodong Han
- Immunology and Reproductive Biology Laboratory & State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Medical School, Nanjing University, Hankou Road 22, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210093, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210093, China.
| | - Jie Ding
- Immunology and Reproductive Biology Laboratory & State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Medical School, Nanjing University, Hankou Road 22, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210093, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210093, China.
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The Seminiferous Epithelial Cycle of Spermatogenesis: Role of Non-receptor Tyrosine Kinases. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2021; 1288:1-20. [PMID: 34453729 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-77779-1_1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Non-receptor tyrosine kinases (NRTKs) are implicated in various biological processes including cell proliferation, differentiation, survival, and apoptosis, as well as cell adhesion and movement. NRTKs are expressed in all mammals and in different cell types, with extraordinarily high expression in the testis. Their association with the plasma membrane and dynamic subcellular localization are crucial parameters in their activation and function. Many NRTKs are found in endosomal protein trafficking pathways, which suggests a novel mechanism to regulate the timely junction restructuring in the mammalian testis to facilitate spermiation and germ cell transport across the seminiferous epithelium.
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Lu B, Qian J, Wang P, Wang C, Hu J, Li K, He X, Jin W. Effect of perfluorooctanesulfonate (PFOS) on the rhizosphere soil nitrogen cycling of two riparian plants. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 741:140494. [PMID: 32886976 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.140494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2020] [Revised: 06/21/2020] [Accepted: 06/22/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Here, we examined the effects of low and high concentrations of perfluorooctanesulfonate (PFOS) on rhizosphere soil N cycling processes in the presence of Lythrum salicaria and Phragmites communis over 4 months. Compared with the control group, the nitrate nitrogen (NO3--N) content of the bulk soil in the low PFOS (0.1 mg kg-1) treatment significantly decreased (27.7%), the ammonium nitrogen (NH4+-N) content significantly increased (8.7%), and the pH value and total organic carbon (TOC) content slightly increased (0.3% and 1.1%, respectively). Compared with the low PFOS treatment, the content of NO3-N, NH4+-N and pH value in the bulk soil of the high PFOS treatment (50 mg kg-1) significantly increased (1.0%, 53.8% and 61.8%, respectively), and the TOC content significantly decreased (8.2%). Soil protease levels were high in the low PFOS treatment, but low in the high PFOS treatment. PFOS produced inverted U-shaped responses in the potential nitrification (1.5, 3.0, and 1.1 mg N d-1 kg-1 in no, low, and high PFOS, respectively), denitrification (0.19, 0.30, and 0.22 mg N d-1 kg-1 in no, low, and high PFOS, respectively), and N2O emission rates (0.01, 0.03, and 0.02 mg N d-1 kg-1 in no, low, and high PFOS, respectively) of bulk soil. The abundance of the archaea amoA gene decreased with increasing PFOS concentration, whereas that of bacterial amoA increased; inverted U-shaped responses were observed for narG, nirK, nirS, and nosZ. In the PFOS-contaminated rhizosphere soil, the observed changes differed from those in the bulk soil and differed between treatments. P. communis tended to upregulate each step of the nitrogen cycle under low PFOS conditions, whereas L. salicaria tended to inhibit them. Under high PFOS conditions, both test plants tended to act as inhibitors of the soil N-cycle; thus, the effects of PFOS on soil N transformation were plant-specific.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bianhe Lu
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, People's Republic of China; College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, People's Republic of China
| | - Jin Qian
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, People's Republic of China; College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, People's Republic of China.
| | - Peifang Wang
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, People's Republic of China; College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, People's Republic of China
| | - Chao Wang
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, People's Republic of China; College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing Hu
- Wetland Biogeochemistry Laboratory, Soil and Water Sciences Department, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (IFAS), University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Kun Li
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, People's Republic of China; College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, People's Republic of China
| | - Xixian He
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, People's Republic of China; College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, People's Republic of China
| | - Wen Jin
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, People's Republic of China; College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, People's Republic of China
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Li H, Liu S, Wu S, Ge R, Cheng CY. NC1-Peptide From Collagen α3 (IV) Chains in the Basement Membrane of Testes Regulates Spermatogenesis via p-FAK-Y407. Endocrinology 2020; 161:5881724. [PMID: 32761085 PMCID: PMC7478323 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqaa133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2020] [Accepted: 07/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
The blood-testis barrier (BTB) in the testis is an important ultrastructure to support spermatogenesis. This blood-tissue barrier undergoes remodeling at late stage VII to early stage IX of the epithelial cycle to support the transport of preleptotene spermatocytes across the BTB to prepare for meiosis I/II at the apical compartment through a mechanism that remains to be delineated. Studies have shown that NC1-peptide-derived collagen α3 (IV) chain in the basement membrane is a bioactive peptide that induces BTB remodeling. It also promotes the release of fully developed spermatids into the tubule lumen. Thus, this endogenously produced peptide coordinates these 2 cellular events across the seminiferous epithelium. Using an NC1-peptide complementary deoxyribonucleic acid (cDNA) construct to transfect adult rat testes for overexpression, NC1-peptide was found to effectively induce germ cell exfoliation and BTB remodeling, which was associated with a surge and activation of p-rpS6, the downstream signaling protein of mTORC1 and the concomitant downregulation of p-FAK-Y407 in the testis. In order to define the functional relationship between p-rpS6 and p-FAK-Y407 signaling to confer the ability of NC1-peptide to regulate testis function, a phosphomimetic (and thus constitutively active) mutant of p-FAK-Y407 (p-FAK-Y407E-MT) was used for its co-transfection, utilizing Sertoli cells cultured in vitro with a functional tight junction (TJ) barrier that mimicked the BTB in vivo. Overexpression of p-FAK-Y407E-MT blocked the effects of NC1-peptide to perturb Sertoli cell BTB function by promoting F-actin and microtubule cytoskeleton function, and downregulated the NC1-peptide-mediated induction of p-rpS6 activation. In brief, NC1-peptide is an important endogenously produced biomolecule that regulates BTB dynamics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huitao Li
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
- The Mary Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, New York
| | - Shiwen Liu
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
- The Mary Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, New York
| | - Siwen Wu
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
- The Mary Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, New York
| | - Renshan Ge
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - C Yan Cheng
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
- The Mary Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, New York
- Correspondence: C. Yan Cheng, PhD, Senior Scientist, The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, 1230 York Ave, New York, New York 10065. E-mail:
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Wang L, Yan M, Wu S, Mao B, Wong CKC, Ge R, Sun F, Cheng CY. Microtubule Cytoskeleton and Spermatogenesis-Lesson From Studies of Toxicant Models. Toxicol Sci 2020; 177:305-315. [PMID: 32647867 PMCID: PMC7548287 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfaa109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Studies have shown that mammalian testes, in particular the Sertoli cells, are highly susceptible to exposure of environmental toxicants, such as cadmium, perfluorooctanesulfonate, phthalates, 2,5-hexanedione and bisphenol A. However, important studies conducted by reproductive toxicologists and/or biologists in the past have been treated as toxicology reports per se. Yet, many of these studies provided important mechanistic insights on the toxicant-induced testis injury and reproductive dysfunction, relevant to the biology of the testis and spermatogenesis. Furthermore, recent studies have shown that findings obtained from toxicant models are exceedingly helpful tools to unravel the biology of testis function in particular spermatogenesis, including specific cellular events associated with spermatid transport to support spermiogenesis and spermiation. In this review, we critically evaluate some recent data, focusing primarily on the molecular structure and role of microtubules in cellular function, illustrating the importance of toxicant models to unravel the biology of microtubule cytoskeleton in supporting spermatogenesis, well beyond information on toxicology. These findings have opened up some potential areas of research which should be carefully evaluated in the years to come.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingling Wang
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, New York 10065
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Screening, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210009, China
| | - Ming Yan
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Screening, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210009, China
| | - Siwen Wu
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, New York 10065
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Screening, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210009, China
| | - Baiping Mao
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, New York 10065
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Screening, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210009, China
| | - Chris K C Wong
- Department of Biology, Croucher Institute for Environmental Sciences, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
| | - Renshan Ge
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Fei Sun
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, China
| | - C Yan Cheng
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, New York 10065
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, China
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Sonkar R, Kay MK, Choudhury M. PFOS Modulates Interactive Epigenetic Regulation in First-Trimester Human Trophoblast Cell Line HTR-8/SV neo. Chem Res Toxicol 2019; 32:2016-2027. [PMID: 31508952 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrestox.9b00198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Organic compounds have been linked to adverse pregnancy complications. Perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS), a man-made fluorosurfactant and global pollutant, has been shown to induce oxidative stress in various cell types. Oxidative stress plays a key role in leading several placental diseases including preeclampsia (PE), gestational diabetes, spontaneous abortion, preterm labor, and intrauterine growth restriction. Recently, epigenetic regulation such as histone modifications, DNA methylation, and microRNAs (miRNAs), are shown to be associated with oxidative stress as well as pregnancy complications such as PE. However, whether PFOS exerts its detrimental effects in the placenta through epigenetics remains to be unveiled. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the effect of PFOS-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation in first trimester human trophoblast cell line (HTR-8/SVneo) and whether epigenetic regulation is involved in this process. When treated with a range of PFOS doses at 24 and 48 h, even at 10 μM, it significantly increased the ROS production and decreased gene and protein expression, respectively, of the DNA methyltransferases DNMT1 (p < 0.001; p < 0.05), DNMT3A (p < 0.001; p < 0.05), and DNMT3B (p < 0.01; p < 0.01) and the sirtuins, for example, SIRT1 (p < 0.001; p < 0.001) and SIRT3 (p < 0.001; p < 0.05), while reducing global DNA methylation (p < 0.01) and increasing protein lysine acetylation (p < 0.001) as compared to vehicle controls. Interestingly, PFOS (10 μM) significantly increased miR29-b (p < 0.01), which has been previously reported to be associated with PE. The observed epigenetic effects were shown to be dependent on the expression of miR-29b, as knockdown of miR-29b significantly alters the gene and protein expression of DNMT1, DNMT3A, DNMT3B, SIRT1, and SIRT3 and ROS production as well as global DNA methylation and protein acetylation. This study provides for the first time a novel insight into PFOS-induced ROS generation via regulation of sets of the interactive epigenetic circuit in the placenta, which may lead to pregnancy complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ravi Sonkar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Irma Lerma Rangel College of Pharmacy , Texas A&M Health Science Center , 312 REYN, MS 1114 , College Station , Texas 77843 , United States
| | - Matthew K Kay
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Irma Lerma Rangel College of Pharmacy , Texas A&M Health Science Center , 312 REYN, MS 1114 , College Station , Texas 77843 , United States
| | - Mahua Choudhury
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Irma Lerma Rangel College of Pharmacy , Texas A&M Health Science Center , 312 REYN, MS 1114 , College Station , Texas 77843 , United States
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