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Karoii DH, Azizi H, Skutella T. Whole transcriptome analysis to identify non-coding RNA regulators and hub genes in sperm of non-obstructive azoospermia by microarray, single-cell RNA sequencing, weighted gene co-expression network analysis, and mRNA-miRNA-lncRNA interaction analysis. BMC Genomics 2024; 25:583. [PMID: 38858625 PMCID: PMC11165898 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-024-10506-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The issue of male fertility is becoming increasingly common due to genetic differences inherited over generations. Gene expression and evaluation of non-coding RNA (ncRNA), crucial for sperm development, are significant factors. This gene expression can affect sperm motility and, consequently, fertility. Understanding the intricate protein interactions that play essential roles in sperm differentiation and development is vital. This knowledge could lead to more effective treatments and interventions for male infertility. MATERIALS AND METHODS Our research aim to identify new and key genes and ncRNA involved in non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA), improving genetic diagnosis and offering more accurate estimates for successful sperm extraction based on an individual's genotype. RESULTS We analyzed the transcript of three NOA patients who tested negative for genetic sperm issues, employing comprehensive genome-wide analysis of approximately 50,000 transcript sequences using microarray technology. This compared gene expression profiles between NOA sperm and normal sperm. We found significant gene expression differences: 150 genes were up-regulated, and 78 genes were down-regulated, along with 24 ncRNAs up-regulated and 13 ncRNAs down-regulated compared to normal conditions. By cross-referencing our results with a single-cell genomics database, we identified overexpressed biological process terms in differentially expressed genes, such as "protein localization to endosomes" and "xenobiotic transport." Overrepresented molecular function terms in up-regulated genes included "voltage-gated calcium channel activity," "growth hormone-releasing hormone receptor activity," and "sialic acid transmembrane transporter activity." Analysis revealed nine hub genes associated with NOA sperm: RPL34, CYB5B, GOL6A6, LSM1, ARL4A, DHX57, STARD9, HSP90B1, and VPS36. CONCLUSIONS These genes and their interacting proteins may play a role in the pathophysiology of germ cell abnormalities and infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danial Hashemi Karoii
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, School of Biology, College of Science, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
- Faculty of Biotechnology, Amol University of Special Modern Technologies, Amol, Iran
| | - Hossein Azizi
- Faculty of Biotechnology, Amol University of Special Modern Technologies, Amol, Iran.
| | - Thomas Skutella
- Institute for Anatomy and Cell Biology, Medical Faculty, University of Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 307, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany.
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Jiang X, Sun S, Shi C, Liu K, Yang Y, Cao J, Gu J, Liu J. Rsad2 mediates Bisphenol A-induced actin cytoskeletal disruption in mouse spermatocytes. J Appl Toxicol 2024. [PMID: 38828519 DOI: 10.1002/jat.4649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2024] [Revised: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024]
Abstract
Bisphenol A (BPA) is widely exposed in populations worldwide and has negative effects on spermatogenesis both in animals and humans. The homeostasis of the actin cytoskeleton in the spermatogenic epithelium is crucial for spermatogenesis. Actin cytoskeleton destruction in the seminiferous epithelium is one of the important reasons for BPA-induced spermatogenesis disorder. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms remain largely unexplored. Herein, we explored the role and mechanism of Rsad2, an interferon-stimulated gene in BPA-induced actin cytoskeleton disorder in mouse GC-2 spermatocyte cell lines. After BPA exposure, the actin cytoskeleton was dramatically disrupted and the cell morphology was markedly altered accompanied by a significant increase in Rsad2 expression both in mRNA and protein levels in GC-2 cells. Furthermore, the phalloidin intensities and cell morphology were restored obviously when interfering with the expression of Rsad2 in BPA-treated GC-2 cells. In addition, we observed a significant decrease in intracellular ATP levels after BPA treatment, while the ATP level was obviously upregulated when knocking down the expression of Rsad2 in BPA-treated cells compared to cells treated with BPA alone. Moreover, Rsad2 relocated to mitochondria after BPA exposure in GC-2 cells. BPA promoted Rsad2 expression by activating type I IFN-signaling in GC-2 cells. In summary, Rsad2 mediated BPA-induced actin cytoskeletal disruption in GC-2 cells, which provided data to reveal the mechanism of BPA-induced male reproductive toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Jiang
- State Key Lab of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning, Key Lab of Medical Protection for Electromagnetic Radiation, Ministry of Education of China, Institute of Toxicology, College of Preventive Medicine, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Shengqi Sun
- State Key Lab of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning, Key Lab of Medical Protection for Electromagnetic Radiation, Ministry of Education of China, Institute of Toxicology, College of Preventive Medicine, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
| | - Chaofeng Shi
- State Key Lab of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning, Key Lab of Medical Protection for Electromagnetic Radiation, Ministry of Education of China, Institute of Toxicology, College of Preventive Medicine, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Kangle Liu
- State Key Lab of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning, Key Lab of Medical Protection for Electromagnetic Radiation, Ministry of Education of China, Institute of Toxicology, College of Preventive Medicine, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yurui Yang
- State Key Lab of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning, Key Lab of Medical Protection for Electromagnetic Radiation, Ministry of Education of China, Institute of Toxicology, College of Preventive Medicine, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jia Cao
- State Key Lab of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning, Key Lab of Medical Protection for Electromagnetic Radiation, Ministry of Education of China, Institute of Toxicology, College of Preventive Medicine, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jing Gu
- State Key Lab of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning, Key Lab of Medical Protection for Electromagnetic Radiation, Ministry of Education of China, Institute of Toxicology, College of Preventive Medicine, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jinyi Liu
- State Key Lab of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning, Key Lab of Medical Protection for Electromagnetic Radiation, Ministry of Education of China, Institute of Toxicology, College of Preventive Medicine, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
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Wang L, Bu T, Wu X, Li L, Sun F, Cheng CY. Motor proteins, spermatogenesis and testis function. ADVANCES IN PROTEIN CHEMISTRY AND STRUCTURAL BIOLOGY 2024; 141:381-445. [PMID: 38960481 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apcsb.2024.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/05/2024]
Abstract
The role of motor proteins in supporting intracellular transports of vesicles and organelles in mammalian cells has been known for decades. On the other hand, the function of motor proteins that support spermatogenesis is also well established since the deletion of motor protein genes leads to subfertility and/or infertility. Furthermore, mutations and genetic variations of motor protein genes affect fertility in men, but also a wide range of developmental defects in humans including multiple organs besides the testis. In this review, we seek to provide a summary of microtubule and actin-dependent motor proteins based on earlier and recent findings in the field. Since these two cytoskeletons are polarized structures, different motor proteins are being used to transport cargoes to different ends of these cytoskeletons. However, their involvement in germ cell transport across the blood-testis barrier (BTB) and the epithelium of the seminiferous tubules remains relatively unknown. It is based on recent findings in the field, we have provided a hypothetical model by which motor proteins are being used to support germ cell transport across the BTB and the seminiferous epithelium during the epithelial cycle of spermatogenesis. In our discussion, we have highlighted the areas of research that deserve attention to bridge the gap of research in relating the function of motor proteins to spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingling Wang
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China; Department of Urology and Andrology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Tiao Bu
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Xiaolong Wu
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Linxi Li
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Fei Sun
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - C Yan Cheng
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China; Department of Urology and Andrology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China.
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4
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Zhu T, Liang W, He Y, Zhang B, Liu C, Wang D, Deng L, Li D, Li W, Yan F, Tian Y, Han R, Kang X, Li Z, Jiang R, Sun G. Transcriptomic analysis of mechanism underlying the effect of induced molting on semen quality and reproductive performance in aged Houdan roosters. Poult Sci 2023; 102:102935. [PMID: 37562133 PMCID: PMC10432842 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2023.102935] [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: 05/10/2023] [Revised: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The reproductive performance of breeder roosters has significant economic importance in the poultry industry. Breeder roosters have severely reduced semen quality with age and will be at risk of culling in the following years. In order to extend the use of breeder roosters, we drew on the induced molting model of hens and selected 35 Houdan roosters aged 50 wk for induced molting. By comparing the body weight, testicular weight, semen quality, and reproductive performance before and after induced molting, we found that induced molting could restore the body weight and testicular weight to the levels before molting (P > 0.05). At the same time, it significantly improved sperm motility (P < 0.05) and also improved reproductive performance such as fertilization rate and hatching rate. To further reveal the mechanism underlying the effects of induced molting on semen quality and reproductive performance in aged Houdan roosters, we collected testes from 3 periods: 1 d before fasting (F0), 15 d after fasting (F15), and 32 d after recovery feeding (R32) for transcriptome sequencing analysis. A total of 5,671 genes were detected in F0, F15, and R32, and trend analysis of the 5,671 differential genes showed 2 significant trends (profile 5 and profile 2). KEGG enrichment analysis of the genes in the 2 profiles, revealed significantly enriched pathway regulation of actin cytoskeleton. In the regulation of actin cytoskeleton pathway, we found a protein kinase gene (SRC) and a senescence gene (ROCK2). SRC was highly expressed at F15, leading to the phosphorylation of key substrates, which in turn disrupted the Sertoli cell spermatid connection and the spermiogenesis process, resulting in no mature spermatozoa produced from F15, SRC expression was inhibited at R32, the expression level was reduced, and mature spermatozoa reappeared. The senescence gene ROCK2 was highly expressed at F15 compared to F0 and R32, which may have been responsible for inducing senescence atrophy in the testes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingqi Zhu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
| | - Wenjie Liang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
| | - Yuehua He
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
| | - Binbin Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
| | - Cong Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
| | - Dongxue Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
| | - Lekun Deng
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
| | - Donghua Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
| | - Wenting Li
- The Shennong Laboratory, Zhengzhou, 450002, China; College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
| | - Fengbin Yan
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
| | - Yadong Tian
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
| | - Ruili Han
- The Shennong Laboratory, Zhengzhou, 450002, China; College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
| | - Xiangtao Kang
- The Shennong Laboratory, Zhengzhou, 450002, China; College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
| | - Zhuanjian Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
| | - Ruirui Jiang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
| | - Guirong Sun
- The Shennong Laboratory, Zhengzhou, 450002, China; College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, China.
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Bai Y, Zhao F, Wu T, Chen F, Pang X. Actin polymerization and depolymerization in developing vertebrates. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1213668. [PMID: 37745245 PMCID: PMC10515290 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1213668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Development is a complex process that occurs throughout the life cycle. F-actin, a major component of the cytoskeleton, is essential for the morphogenesis of tissues and organs during development. F-actin is formed by the polymerization of G-actin, and the dynamic balance of polymerization and depolymerization ensures proper cellular function. Disruption of this balance results in various abnormalities and defects or even embryonic lethality. Here, we reviewed recent findings on the structure of G-actin and F-actin and the polymerization of G-actin to F-actin. We also focused on the functions of actin isoforms and the underlying mechanisms of actin polymerization/depolymerization in cellular and organic morphogenesis during development. This information will extend our understanding of the role of actin polymerization in the physiologic or pathologic processes during development and may open new avenues for developing therapeutics for embryonic developmental abnormalities or tissue regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Bai
- Stomatological Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases and Biomedical Sciences, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Municipal Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedical Engineering of Higher Education, Chongqing, China
| | - Feng Zhao
- Stomatological Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases and Biomedical Sciences, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Municipal Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedical Engineering of Higher Education, Chongqing, China
| | - Tingting Wu
- Stomatological Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases and Biomedical Sciences, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Municipal Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedical Engineering of Higher Education, Chongqing, China
| | - Fangchun Chen
- Stomatological Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases and Biomedical Sciences, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Municipal Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedical Engineering of Higher Education, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiaoxiao Pang
- Stomatological Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases and Biomedical Sciences, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Municipal Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedical Engineering of Higher Education, Chongqing, China
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6
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Manera M, Casciano F, Giari L. Ultrastructural Alterations of the Glomerular Filtration Barrier in Fish Experimentally Exposed to Perfluorooctanoic Acid. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:5253. [PMID: 37047869 PMCID: PMC10094651 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20075253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Revised: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances can be referred to as the most critical group of contaminants of emerging concern. They can accumulate in high concentration in the kidney and are known to potentially affect its function. Nonetheless, there is a lack of knowledge about their morphopathological effect on the glomerular filtration barrier. Since previous research suggests perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) induces glomerular protein leakage, the glomerular filtration barrier of 30 carp from the same parental stock (10 unexposed; 10 exposed to 200 ng L-1 of PFOA; and 10 exposed to 2 mg L-1 of PFOA for 56 days) was screened for possible PFOA-induced ultrastructural lesions in order to shed light on the related pathophysiology. PFOA exposure affected the glomerular filtration barrier in carp experimentally exposed to 2 mg L-1, showing ultrastructural alterations compatible with glomerulonephrosis: podocyte effacement, reduction of filtration slits and filtration slit diaphragms, basement membrane disarrangement, and occurrence of proteinaceous material in the urinary space. The results of the present research confirm the glomerular origin of the PFOA-induced protein leakage and can contribute to the mechanistic comprehension of PFOA's impact on renal function and to the assessment of the exposure effect of environmental pollutants on animals and humans, according to the One Health approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maurizio Manera
- Department of Biosciences, Food and Environmental Technologies, University of Teramo, St. R. Balzarini 1, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Fabio Casciano
- Department of Translational Medicine and LTTA Centre, University of Ferrara, St. Fossato di Mortara 70, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Luisa Giari
- Department of Environmental and Prevention Sciences, University of Ferrara, St. Borsari 46, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
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7
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Venditti M, Ben Hadj Hassine M, Messaoudi I, Minucci S. The simultaneous administration of microplastics and cadmium alters rat testicular activity and changes the expression of PTMA, DAAM1 and PREP. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1145702. [PMID: 36968197 PMCID: PMC10033688 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1145702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023] Open
Abstract
This paper confirms the damaging effects produced by MP and Cd on testicular activity in the rat. Oral treatment with both chemicals resulted in testicular damage, documented by biomolecular and histological alterations, particularly by impaired morphometric parameters, increased apoptosis, reduced testosterone synthesis, and downregulation of the steroidogenic enzyme 3β-HSD. We also demonstrated, for the first time, that both MP and Cd can affect the protein level of PTMA, a small peptide that regulates germ cell proliferation and differentiation. Interestingly, the cytoarchitecture of testicular cells was also altered by the treatments, as evidenced by the impaired expression and localization of DAAM1 and PREP, two proteins involved in actin- and microtubule-associated processes, respectively, during germ cells differentiation into spermatozoa, impairing normal spermatogenesis. Finally, we showed that the effect of simultaneous treatment with MP and Cd were more severe than those produced by MP alone and less harmful than those of Cd alone. This could be due to the different ways of exposure of the two substances to rats (in drinking water for Cd and in oral gavage for MP), since being the first contact in the animals’ gastrointestinal tract, MP can adsorb Cd, reducing its bioavailability through the Trojan-horse effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Massimo Venditti
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Sez. Fisiologia Umana e Funzioni Biologiche Integrate “F. Bottazzi”, Università degli Studi della Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
- *Correspondence: Massimo Venditti, ; Sergio Minucci,
| | - Majida Ben Hadj Hassine
- Laboratoire LR11ES41 Génétique Biodiversité et Valorisation des Bio-ressourcés, Institut Supérieur de Biotechnologie de Monastir, Université de Monastir, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Imed Messaoudi
- Laboratoire LR11ES41 Génétique Biodiversité et Valorisation des Bio-ressourcés, Institut Supérieur de Biotechnologie de Monastir, Université de Monastir, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Sergio Minucci
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Sez. Fisiologia Umana e Funzioni Biologiche Integrate “F. Bottazzi”, Università degli Studi della Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
- *Correspondence: Massimo Venditti, ; Sergio Minucci,
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Xu J, Sang M, Cheng J, Luo C, Shi J, Sun F. Knockdown of disheveled-associated activator of morphogenesis 2 disrupts cytoskeletal organization and phagocytosis in rat Sertoli cells. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2023; 563:111867. [PMID: 36681175 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2023.111867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Disheveled-associated activator of morphogenesis 2 (DAAM2) regulates actin polymerization and cell motility. In this study, we investigated the role of DAAM2 in the cytoskeleton and phagocytosis of rat Sertoli cells in vitro and in vivo through siRNA transfection and intratesticular injection. We found that knockdown of DAAM2 significantly attenuated cytoskeletal and tight junction marker expression and reduced the integrity of the Sertoli cell monolayer. In rats, loss of DAAM2 induced disarrangement and deformation of sperms and promoted accumulation of apoptotic sperms in the testis, accompanied by morphological abnormalities in the blood-testis barrier. DAAM2 silencing also reduced the ability of Sertoli cells to engulf apoptotic spermatogenic cells and green fluorescence-labeled beads. RNA sequencing and bioinformatics analysis revealed that phagocytosis and cytoskeleton-related genes and pathways were significantly associated with DAAM2. Our study suggests that DAAM2 may be involved in spermatogenesis possibly by regulating cytoskeleton organization and phagocytosis of Sertoli cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junjie Xu
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, China; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001, China
| | - Mengmeng Sang
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, China
| | - Jinmei Cheng
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, China
| | - Chunhai Luo
- Department of Urology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310016, China
| | - Jie Shi
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, China
| | - Fei Sun
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, China.
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Zhu H, Wen Z, Zhang A, Liu D, Wang H, Cheng Y, Yang X, Xiao Y, Li J, Sun D, Wu B, Gao J. RhoGDIα regulates spermatogenesis through Rac1/cofilin/F-actin signaling. Commun Biol 2023; 6:214. [PMID: 36823181 PMCID: PMC9950379 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-023-04579-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is an extremely complex process, and any obstruction can cause male infertility. RhoGDIα has been identified as a risk of male sterility. In this study, we generate RhoGDIα knockout mice, and find that the males have severely low fertility. The testes from RhoGDIα-/- mice are smaller than that in WT mice. The numbers of spermatogonia and spermatocytes are decreased in RhoGDIα-/- testis. Spermatogenesis is compromised, and spermatocyte meiosis is arrested at zygotene stage in RhoGDIα-/- mice. Acrosome dysplasia is also observed in sperms of the mutant mice. At the molecular level, RhoGDIα deficiency activate the LIMK/cofilin signaling pathway, inhibiting F-actin depolymerization, impairing testis and inducing low fertility in mouse. In addition, the treatment of RhoGDIα-/- mice with Rac1 inhibitor NSC23766 alleviate testis injury and improve sperm quality by inhibiting the LIMK/cofilin/F-actin pathway during spermatogenesis. Together, these findings reveal a previously unrecognized RhoGDIα/Rac1/F-actin-dependent mechanism involved in spermatogenesis and male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haixia Zhu
- School of Life Science and Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Experimental Teratology, Shandong University, Jinan, 250100, China
| | - Zongzhuang Wen
- Medical Science and Technology Innovation Center, Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, 250117, China
| | - Aizhen Zhang
- School of Life Science and Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Experimental Teratology, Shandong University, Jinan, 250100, China
| | - Dongyue Liu
- School of Life Science and Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Experimental Teratology, Shandong University, Jinan, 250100, China
| | - Hongxiang Wang
- School of Life Science and Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Experimental Teratology, Shandong University, Jinan, 250100, China
| | - Yin Cheng
- School of Life Science and Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Experimental Teratology, Shandong University, Jinan, 250100, China
| | - Xing Yang
- School of Life Science and Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Experimental Teratology, Shandong University, Jinan, 250100, China
| | - Yu Xiao
- School of Life Science and Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Experimental Teratology, Shandong University, Jinan, 250100, China
| | - Jianyuan Li
- Key Laboratory of Male Reproductive Health, National Health and Family Planning Commission, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Daqing Sun
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China.
| | - Bin Wu
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, 250013, China.
- Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China.
| | - Jiangang Gao
- School of Life Science and Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Experimental Teratology, Shandong University, Jinan, 250100, China.
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Wang T, Cao B, Cai Y, Chen S, Wang B, Yuan Y, Zhang Q. Plcz1 Deficiency Decreased Fertility in Male Mice Which Is Associated with Sperm Quality Decline and Abnormal Cytoskeleton in Epididymis. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 24:314. [PMID: 36613757 PMCID: PMC9820195 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24010314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Phospholipase C zeta1 (Plcz1) was known to be a physiological factor in sperm that activates oocytes to complete meiosis by triggering Ca2+ oscillations after fertilisation. However, the role of male Plcz1 in spermatogenesis and early embryo development in progeny has been controversial. Plcz1 knockout (Plcz1-/-) mouse model (Plcz1m3 and Plcz1m5) was generated by using the CRISPR-Cas9 system. The fertility of Plcz1-/- mice was evaluated by analysing the number of offsprings, sperm quality, pathological changes in the testis and epididymis. RNA-seq and RT-PCR were performed to screen differentially expressed genes and signalling pathways related to fertility in Plcz1-/- mice. Further mechanism was explored by using Plcz1-/- cells. Plcz1 knockout led to hypofertility in male mice. In particular, a significant time delay in development and polyspermy was found in eggs fertilized by both Plcz1m3 and Plcz1m5 sperm. Interestingly, a decline in sperm quality combined with pathological changes in epididymis was found in Plcz1m3 mice but not in Plcz1m5 mice. Notably, abnormal cytoskeleton appears in epididymis of Plcz1m3 mice and Plcz1-/- cells. Cytoskeleton damage of epididymis is involved in fertility decline of males upon Plcz1 deficiency in this model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Wang
- Institute of Comparative Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225012, China
- Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225012, China
| | - Binbin Cao
- Institute of Comparative Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225012, China
- Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225012, China
| | - Yao Cai
- Institute of Comparative Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225012, China
- Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225012, China
| | - Si Chen
- Institute of Comparative Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225012, China
- Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225012, China
| | - Baozhu Wang
- Institute of Comparative Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225012, China
- Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225012, China
| | - Yan Yuan
- Institute of Comparative Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225012, China
- Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225012, China
| | - Quan Zhang
- Institute of Comparative Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225012, China
- Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225012, China
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11
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Wu X, Yun D, Sang M, Liu J, Zhou L, Shi J, Wang L, Bu T, Li L, Huang Y, Lin D, Sun F, Cheng CY. Defects of microtubule cytoskeletal organization in NOA human testes. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2022; 20:154. [PMID: 36329464 PMCID: PMC9632130 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-022-01026-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The importance of actin and microtubule (MT) cytoskeletons in testis function in rodents is known to some extent, but its role in the etiology of azoospermia in humans remains unexplored. Here, we examined if MT cytoskeleton was defective in NOA (non-obstructive azoospermia) testes versus normal human testes based on histopathological, immunofluorescence (IF), and scRNA-Seq transcriptome profiling. Testis biopsy samples from n = 6 normal men versus n = 3 Sertoli cell only (SCO) and n = 3 MA (meiotic arrest) of NOA patients were used for histopathological analysis. IF analysis was also used to examine MT organization across the seminiferous epithelium, investigating the likely involvement of microtubule-associated proteins (MAPs). scRNA-Seq transcriptome profiling datasets from testes of 3 SCO patients versus 3 normal men in public domain in Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) Sample (GSM) with identifiers were analyzed to examine relevant genes that regulate MT dynamics. NOA testes of MA and SCO patients displayed notable defects in MT organization across the epithelium with extensive truncation, mis-alignments and appeared as collapsed structures near the base of the tubules. These changes are in contrast to MTs in testes of normal men. scRNA-Seq analyses revealed considerable loss of spermatogenesis capacity in SCO testes of NOA patients versus normal men. An array of genes that support MT dynamics displayed considerable changes in expression and in spatial distribution. In summary, defects in MT cytoskeleton were noted in testes of NOA (SCO) patients, possibly mediated by defective spatial expression and/or distribution of MAPs. These changes, in turn, may impede spermatogenesis in SCO testes of NOA patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaolong Wu
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310016, Zhejiang, China
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong, 226001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Damin Yun
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong, 226001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Mengmeng Sang
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong, 226001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jianpeng Liu
- Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, Zhejiang, China
| | - Liwei Zhou
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong, 226001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jie Shi
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong, 226001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Lingling Wang
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong, 226001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Tiao Bu
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong, 226001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Linxi Li
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, Zhejiang, China
| | - YingYing Huang
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong, 226001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Dengfeng Lin
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong, 226001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Fei Sun
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310016, Zhejiang, China.
| | - C Yan Cheng
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310016, Zhejiang, China.
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong, 226001, Jiangsu, China.
- Center for Biomedical Research, The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Population Council, 1230 York Ave, New York, NY, 10065, USA.
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12
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Tang EI, Cheng CY. MARK2 and MARK4 Regulate Sertoli Cell BTB Dynamics Through Microtubule and Actin Cytoskeletons. Endocrinology 2022; 163:6667645. [PMID: 35971301 PMCID: PMC10147390 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqac130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Microtubule affinity-regulating kinases (MARKs) are nonreceptor Ser/Thr protein kinases known to regulate cell polarity and microtubule dynamics in Caenorhabditis elegans, Drosophila, invertebrates, vertebrates, and mammals. An earlier study has shown that MARK4 is present at the ectoplasmic specialization and blood-testis barrier (BTB) in the seminiferous epithelium of adult rat testes. Here, we report the function of MARK4 and another isoform MARK2 in Sertoli cells at the BTB. Knockdown of MARK2, MARK4, or MARK2 and MARK4 by RNAi using the corresponding siRNA duplexes without apparent off-target effects was shown to impair tight junction (TJ)-permeability barrier at the Sertoli cell BTB. It also disrupted microtubule (MT)- and actin-based cytoskeletal organization within Sertoli cells. Although MARK2 and MARK4 were shown to share sequence homology, they likely regulated the Sertoli cell BTB and MT cytoskeleton differently. Disruption of the TJ-permeability barrier following knockdown of MARK4 was considerably more severe than loss of MARK2, though both perturbed the barrier. Similarly, loss of MARK2 affected MT organization in a different manner than the loss of MARK4. Knockdown of MARK2 caused MT bundles to be arranged around the cell periphery, whereas knockdown of MARK4 caused MTs to retract from the cell edge. These differences in effects on the TJ-permeability barrier are likely from the unique roles of MARK2 and MARK4 in regulating the MT cytoskeleton of the Sertoli cell.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth I Tang
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, Rockefeller University, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - C Yan Cheng
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, Rockefeller University, New York, NY 10065, USA
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310016, China
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13
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Vassal M, Pereira CD, Martins F, Silva VLM, Silva AMS, Senos AMR, Costa MEV, Pereira MDL, Rebelo S. Different Strategies to Attenuate the Toxic Effects of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles on Spermatogonia Cells. NANOMATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 12:3561. [PMID: 36296751 PMCID: PMC9607034 DOI: 10.3390/nano12203561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Revised: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 10/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) are one of the most used nanoparticles due to their unique physicochemical and biological properties. There is, however, a growing concern about their negative impact on male reproductive health. Therefore, in the present study, two different strategies were used to evaluate the recovery ability of spermatogonia cells from the first stage of spermatogenesis (GC-1 spg cell line) after being exposed to a cytotoxic concentration of ZnO NPs (20 µg/mL) for two different short time periods, 6 and 12 h. The first strategy was to let the GC-1 cells recover after ZnO NPs exposure in a ZnO NPs-free medium for 4 days. At this phase, cell viability assays were performed to evaluate whether this period was long enough to allow for cell recovery. Exposure to ZnO NPs for 6 h and 12 h induced a decrease in viability of 25% and 41%, respectively. However, the recovery period allowed for an increase in cell viability from 16% to 25% to values as high as 91% and 84%. These results strongly suggest that GC-1 cells recover, but not completely, given that the cell viability does not reach 100%. Additionally, the impact of a synthetic chalcone (E)-3-(2,6-dichlorophenyl)-1-(2-hydroxyphenyl)prop-2-en-1-one (1) to counteract the reproductive toxicity of ZnO NPs was investigated. Different concentrations of chalcone 1 (0-12.5 µM) were used before and during exposure of GC-1 cells to ZnO NPs to mitigate the damage induced by NPs. The protective ability of this compound was evaluated through viability assays, levels of DNA damage, and cytoskeleton dynamics (evaluating the acetylated α-tubulin and β-actin protein levels). The results indicated that the tested concentrations of chalcone 1 can attenuate the genotoxicity induced by ZnO NPs for shorter exposure periods (6 h). Chalcone 1 supplementation also increased cell viability and stabilized the microtubules. However, the antioxidant potential of this compound remains to be elucidated. In conclusion, this work addressed the main cytotoxic effects of ZnO NPs on a spermatogonia cell line and analyzed two different strategies to mitigate this damage, which represent a significant contribution to the field of male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Vassal
- Department of Biology, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Cátia D. Pereira
- Institute of Biomedicine—iBiMED, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Filipa Martins
- Institute of Biomedicine—iBiMED, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Vera L. M. Silva
- LAQV-REQUIMTE, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Artur M. S. Silva
- LAQV-REQUIMTE, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Ana M. R. Senos
- CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
- Department of Materials and Ceramic Engineering, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Maria Elisabete V. Costa
- CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
- Department of Materials and Ceramic Engineering, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Maria de Lourdes Pereira
- CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Sandra Rebelo
- Institute of Biomedicine—iBiMED, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
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14
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Yang Y, Yao M, Zeng J, Zheng D, Li Q, Ni Y, Xiao X. FYN regulates cell adhesion at the blood-testis barrier and the apical ectoplasmic specialization via its effect on Arp3 in the mouse testis. Front Immunol 2022; 13:915274. [PMID: 36016954 PMCID: PMC9396411 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.915274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
FYN is a non-receptor tyrosine kinase of the SRC family that facilitates virus entry across epithelial tight junctions. However, the role of FYN in mammalian testes in maintaining the blood-testis barrier (BTB) integrity and the adhesion of germ cells to Sertoli cells are not well defined. Here, we show that FYN is a component of the BTB and the apical ectoplasmic specialization (ES) at Sertoli-Sertoli and Sertoli-spermatid interfaces, respectively, and is expressed extensively in mouse testes during postnatal development. FYN was shown to be structurally linked to the actin and microtubule-based cytoskeletons. An in vivo model was used to explore the modulatory effect of FYN on BTB and apical ES dynamics within the testes when adult mice were treated intraperitoneally with CdCl2 (3 mg/kg body weight). The CdCl2-induced epithelial restructuring was associated with a transient increase in the interaction between FYN and the actin branching/nucleation protein Arp3, as well as an induction of Arp3 phosphorylation, which possibly lead to actin cytoskeleton remodeling, resulting in BTB damage and germ cell loss in the seminiferous epithelium. Based on the results, we propose a model in which FYN and Arp3 form a protein complex that is responsible for junction reorganization events at the apical ES and the BTB. It is also possible for viruses to break through the BTB and enter the immunoprivileged testicular microenvironment via this mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Yang
- Center for Reproductive Health, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hangzhou Medical College (Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences), Hangzhou, China
| | - Mingxia Yao
- Center for Reproductive Health, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hangzhou Medical College (Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences), Hangzhou, China
| | - Jie Zeng
- Center for Reproductive Health, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hangzhou Medical College (Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences), Hangzhou, China
| | - Dongwang Zheng
- Center for Reproductive Health, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hangzhou Medical College (Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences), Hangzhou, China
| | - Qin Li
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Ya Ni
- Center for Reproductive Health, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hangzhou Medical College (Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences), Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiang Xiao
- Center for Reproductive Health, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hangzhou Medical College (Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences), Hangzhou, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Laboratory of Experimental Animal’s & Nonclinical Laboratory Studies, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Xiang Xiao,
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15
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Li T, Wang H, Luo R, An X, Li Q, Su M, Shi H, Chen H, Zhang Y, Ma Y. Proteome Informatics in Tibetan Sheep (Ovis aries) Testes Suggest the Crucial Proteins Related to Development and Functionality. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:923789. [PMID: 35909681 PMCID: PMC9334778 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.923789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Testis has an indispensable function in male reproduction of domestic animals. Tibetan sheep (Ovis aries) is a locally adapted breed of sheep raised in the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, with outsized roles in providing the livelihood for millions of residents. Nevertheless, less is known on how protein expression and their functional roles in developmental testes of such breed limit their use in breeding efforts. In this study, we obtained comprehensive protein profiles from testes of Tibetan sheep at three developmental stages (including pre-puberty, post-puberty, and adulthood) using data-independent acquisition-based proteomic strategy to quantitatively identify the differentially abundant proteins (DAPs) associated with testicular development and function and to unravel the molecular basis of spermatogenesis. A total of 6,221 proteins were differentially expressed in an age-dependent manner. The reliability of the gene expression abundance was corroborated by quantitative PCR and targeted parallel reaction monitoring. These DAPs were significantly enriched to biological processes concerning spermatid development and sperm deformation, mitosis, glycolytic process, cell-cell/extracellular matrix (ECM) junctions, cell proliferation, apoptosis, and migration and to the pathways including, developmental process and sexual reproduction-related (such as VEGF, estrogen, insulin, GnRH, Hippo, PI3K-Akt, mTOR, MAPK, and AMPK), and testicular cell events-related pathways (such as tight/gap/adherens junctions, ECM-receptor interaction, regulation of actin cytoskeleton, glycolysis, cell cycle, and meiosis). Based on these bioinformatics analysis, we constructed four protein–protein interaction network, among which the proteins are involved in mitosis, meiosis, spermiogenesis, and testicular microenvironment, respectively. Altogether, these bioinformatics-based sequencing results suggest that many protein-coding genes were expressed in a development-dependent manner in Tibetan sheep testes to contribute to the testicular cell development and their surrounding microenvironment remodeling at various stages of spermatogenesis. These findings have important implications for further understanding of the mechanisms underlying spermatogenesis in sheep and even other plateau-adapted animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taotao Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, China
- Gansu Key Laboratory of Animal Generational Physiology and Reproductive Regulation, Lanzhou, China
| | - Huihui Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, China
- Gansu Key Laboratory of Animal Generational Physiology and Reproductive Regulation, Lanzhou, China
| | - Ruirui Luo
- Animal Husbandry, Pasture, and Green Agriculture Institute, Gansu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, China
| | - Xuejiao An
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, China
- Gansu Key Laboratory of Animal Generational Physiology and Reproductive Regulation, Lanzhou, China
| | - Qiao Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, China
- Gansu Key Laboratory of Animal Generational Physiology and Reproductive Regulation, Lanzhou, China
| | - Manchun Su
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, China
- Gansu Key Laboratory of Animal Generational Physiology and Reproductive Regulation, Lanzhou, China
| | - Huibin Shi
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, China
- Gansu Key Laboratory of Animal Generational Physiology and Reproductive Regulation, Lanzhou, China
| | - Haolin Chen
- Guizhou Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Science, Guiyang, China
| | - Yong Zhang
- Gansu Key Laboratory of Animal Generational Physiology and Reproductive Regulation, Lanzhou, China
| | - Youji Ma
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, China
- Gansu Key Laboratory of Animal Generational Physiology and Reproductive Regulation, Lanzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Youji Ma
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16
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Hou K, Shi B, Liu Y, Lu C, Li D, Du Z, Li B, Zhu L. Toxicity evaluation of pyraclostrobin exposure in farmland soils and co-exposure with nZnO to Eisenia fetida. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2022; 433:128794. [PMID: 35366441 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2022.128794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Revised: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Although the toxicity of pyraclostrobin (PYRA) to earthworms in artificial soil is well known, the toxicity of PYRA in farmland soils is yet to be explored in detail. Additionally, with more zinc oxide nanoparticles (nZnO) entering the soil environment, the risk of PYRA co-exposure with nZnO is increasing alarmingly. However, toxicity caused by this co-exposure of PYRA and nZnO is still unknown. Therefore, we assessed the biomarkers responses to reveal the toxicity of PYRA (0.1, 1, 2.5 mg/kg) on earthworms in farmland soils (black soil, fluvo-aquic soil, and red clay) and evaluated the biomarkers responses of Eisenia fetida exposed to PYRA (0.5 mg/kg)/PYRA+nZnO (10 mg/kg). Moreover, transcriptomic analysis was performed on E. fetida exposed to PYRA/PYRA+nZnO for 28 days to reveal the mechanism of genotoxicity. The Integrated Biomarker Responses (IBR) showed PYRA induced more severe oxidative stress and damage to E. fetida in farmland soils than that in artificial soil. The oxidative stress and damage induced by PYRA+nZnO were greater than that induced by PYRA. Transcriptomic analysis showed that PYRA and PYRA+nZnO significantly altered gene expression of both biological processes and molecular functions. These results provided toxicological data for PYRA exposure in three typical farmland soils and co-exposure with nZnO.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaixuan Hou
- College of Resources and Environment, Shandong Agricultural University, Key Laboratory of Agricultural Environment in Universities of Shandong, 61 Daizong Road, Taian 271018, PR China.
| | - Baihui Shi
- College of Resources and Environment, Shandong Agricultural University, Key Laboratory of Agricultural Environment in Universities of Shandong, 61 Daizong Road, Taian 271018, PR China.
| | - Yu Liu
- College of Resources and Environment, Shandong Agricultural University, Key Laboratory of Agricultural Environment in Universities of Shandong, 61 Daizong Road, Taian 271018, PR China.
| | - Chengbo Lu
- College of Resources and Environment, Shandong Agricultural University, Key Laboratory of Agricultural Environment in Universities of Shandong, 61 Daizong Road, Taian 271018, PR China.
| | - Dengtan Li
- College of Resources and Environment, Shandong Agricultural University, Key Laboratory of Agricultural Environment in Universities of Shandong, 61 Daizong Road, Taian 271018, PR China.
| | - Zhongkun Du
- College of Resources and Environment, Shandong Agricultural University, Key Laboratory of Agricultural Environment in Universities of Shandong, 61 Daizong Road, Taian 271018, PR China.
| | - Bing Li
- College of Resources and Environment, Shandong Agricultural University, Key Laboratory of Agricultural Environment in Universities of Shandong, 61 Daizong Road, Taian 271018, PR China.
| | - Lusheng Zhu
- College of Resources and Environment, Shandong Agricultural University, Key Laboratory of Agricultural Environment in Universities of Shandong, 61 Daizong Road, Taian 271018, PR China.
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17
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Yao M, Qu H, Han Y, Cheng CY, Xiao X. Kinesins in Mammalian Spermatogenesis and Germ Cell Transport. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:837542. [PMID: 35547823 PMCID: PMC9083010 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.837542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In mammalian testes, the apical cytoplasm of each Sertoli cell holds up to several dozens of germ cells, especially spermatids that are transported up and down the seminiferous epithelium. The blood-testis barrier (BTB) established by neighboring Sertoli cells in the basal compartment restructures on a regular basis to allow preleptotene/leptotene spermatocytes to pass through. The timely transfer of germ cells and other cellular organelles such as residual bodies, phagosomes, and lysosomes across the epithelium to facilitate spermatogenesis is important and requires the microtubule-based cytoskeleton in Sertoli cells. Kinesins, a superfamily of the microtubule-dependent motor proteins, are abundantly and preferentially expressed in the testis, but their functions are poorly understood. This review summarizes recent findings on kinesins in mammalian spermatogenesis, highlighting their potential role in germ cell traversing through the BTB and the remodeling of Sertoli cell-spermatid junctions to advance spermatid transport. The possibility of kinesins acting as a mediator and/or synchronizer for cell cycle progression, germ cell transit, and junctional rearrangement and turnover is also discussed. We mostly cover findings in rodents, but we also make special remarks regarding humans. We anticipate that this information will provide a framework for future research in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingxia Yao
- Center for Reproductive Health, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hangzhou Medical College (Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences), Hangzhou, China
| | - Haoyang Qu
- Center for Reproductive Health, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hangzhou Medical College (Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences), Hangzhou, China
| | - Yating Han
- Center for Reproductive Health, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hangzhou Medical College (Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences), Hangzhou, China
| | - C Yan Cheng
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Sir Run-Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiang Xiao
- Center for Reproductive Health, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hangzhou Medical College (Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences), Hangzhou, China.,Zhejiang Provincial Laboratory of Experimental Animal's & Nonclinical Laboratory Studies, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
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18
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Wu S, Li L, Wu X, Wong CKC, Sun F, Cheng CY. AKAP9 supports spermatogenesis through its effects on microtubule and actin cytoskeletons in the rat testis. FASEB J 2021; 35:e21925. [PMID: 34569663 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202100960r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Revised: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
In mammalian testes, extensive remodeling of the microtubule (MT) and actin cytoskeletons takes place in Sertoli cells across the seminiferous epithelium to support spermatogenesis. However, the mechanism(s) involving regulatory and signaling proteins remains poorly understood. Herein, A-kinase anchoring protein 9 (AKAP9, a member of the AKAP multivalent scaffold protein family) was shown to be one of these crucial regulatory proteins in the rat testis. Earlier studies have shown that AKAP9 serves as a signaling platform by recruiting multiple signaling and regulatory proteins to create a large protein complex that binds to the Golgi and centrosome to facilitate the assembly of the MT-nucleating γ-tubulin ring complex to initiate MT polymerization. We further expanded our earlier studies based on a Sertoli cell-specific AKAP9 knockout mouse model to probe the function of AKAP9 by using the techniques of immunofluorescence analysis, RNA interference (RNAi), and biochemical assays on an in vitro primary Sertoli cell culture model, and an adjudin-based animal model. AKAP9 robustly expressed across the seminiferous epithelium in adult rat testes, colocalizing with MT-based tracks, and laid perpendicular across the seminiferous epithelium, and prominently expressed at the Sertoli-spermatid cell-cell anchoring junction (called apical ectoplasmic specialization [ES]) and at the Sertoli cell-cell interface (called basal ES, which together with tight junction [TJ] created the blood-testis barrier [BTB]) stage specifically. AKAP9 knockdown in Sertoli cells by RNAi was found to perturb the TJ-permeability barrier through disruptive changes in the distribution of BTB-associated proteins at the Sertoli cell cortical zone, mediated by a considerable loss of ability to induce both MT polymerization and actin filament bundling. A considerable decline in AKAP9 expression and a disruptive distribution of AKAP9 across the seminiferous tubules was also noted during adjudin-induced germ cell (GC) exfoliation in this animal model, illustrating AKAP9 is essential to maintain the homeostasis of cytoskeletons to maintain Sertoli and GC adhesion in the testis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siwen Wu
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China.,The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, New York, USA
| | - Linxi Li
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Xiaolong Wu
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong, China
| | - Chris K C Wong
- Department of Biology, Croucher Institute for Environmental Sciences, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon, China
| | - Fei Sun
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong, China
| | - C Yan Cheng
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China.,The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, New York, USA
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19
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Zhang P, He W, Huang Y, Xiao K, Tang Y, Huang L, Huang X, Zhang J, Yang W, Liu R, Fu Q, Lu Y, Zhang M. Proteomic and phosphoproteomic profiles of Sertoli cells in buffalo. Theriogenology 2021; 170:1-14. [PMID: 33945957 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2021.04.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Revised: 03/27/2021] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Sertoli cells provide nutrients and support for germ cell differentiation and maintain a stable microenvironment for spermatogenesis. Comprehensive identification of Sertoli cellular proteins is important in understanding spermatogenesis. In this study, we performed an integrative analysis of the proteome and phosphoproteome to explore the role of Sertoli cells in spermatogenesis. A total of 2912 and 753 proteins were identified from the proteome and phosphoproteome in Sertoli cells, respectively; 438 proteins were common to the proteome and phosphoproteome. Data are available via ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD024984. In the proteome, ACTG1, ACTB, ACTA2, MYH9 were the most abundant proteins. Gene Ontology (GO) analysis indicated that most of the proteins were involved in the processes of localization, biosynthesis, gene expression, and transport. In addition, some of the proteins related to Sertoli cell functions were also enriched. In the phosphoproteome, most of the proteins were involved in gene expression and the RNA metabolic process; the pathways mainly involved the spliceosome, mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling pathway, focal adhesion, and tight junctions. The pleckstrin homology-like domain is the most highly enriched protein domain in phosphoproteins. Cyclin-dependent kinases and protein kinases C were found to be highly active kinases in the kinase-substrate network analysis. Ten proteins most closely related to network stability were found in the analysis of the network interactions of proteins identified jointly in the phosphoproteome and proteome. Through immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence verification of vimentin, it was found that there were localization differences between phosphorylated and non-phosphorylated vimentin in testicular tissue. This study is the first in-depth proteomic and phosphoproteomic analysis of buffalo testicular Sertoli cells. The results provide insight into the role of Sertoli cells in spermatogenesis and provide clues for further study of male reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengfei Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Animal Reproduction Institute, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Wengtan He
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Animal Reproduction Institute, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Yulin Huang
- Department of Cell and Genetics, College of Basic Medicine, Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Kai Xiao
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Animal Reproduction Institute, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Yuyan Tang
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Animal Reproduction Institute, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Liangfeng Huang
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Animal Reproduction Institute, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Xingchen Huang
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Animal Reproduction Institute, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Junjun Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Animal Reproduction Institute, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Weihan Yang
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Animal Reproduction Institute, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Runfeng Liu
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Animal Reproduction Institute, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Qiang Fu
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Animal Reproduction Institute, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, China.
| | - Yangqing Lu
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Animal Reproduction Institute, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, China.
| | - Ming Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Animal Reproduction Institute, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, China.
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20
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Wu S, Lv L, Li L, Wang L, Mao B, Li J, Shen X, Ge R, Wong CKC, Sun F, Cheng CY. KIF15 supports spermatogenesis via its effects on Sertoli cell microtubule, actin, vimentin, and septin cytoskeletons. Endocrinology 2021; 162:6102572. [PMID: 33453102 PMCID: PMC7883770 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqab010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Throughout spermatogenesis, cellular cargoes including haploid spermatids are required to be transported across the seminiferous epithelium, either toward the microtubule (MT) plus (+) end near the basement membrane at stage V, or to the MT minus (-) end near the tubule lumen at stages VI to VIII of the epithelial cycle. Furthermore, preleptotene spermatocytes, differentiated from type B spermatogonia, are transported across the Sertoli cell blood-testis barrier (BTB) to enter the adluminal compartment. Few studies, however, have been conducted to explore the function of MT-dependent motor proteins to support spermatid transport during spermiogenesis. Herein, we examined the role of MT-dependent and microtubule plus (+) end-directed motor protein kinesin 15 (KIF15) in the testis. KIF15 displayed a stage-specific expression across the seminiferous epithelium, associated with MTs, and appeared as aggregates on the MT tracks that aligned perpendicular to the basement membrane and laid across the entire epithelium. KIF15 also tightly associated with apical ectoplasmic specialization, displaying strict stage-specific distribution, apparently to support spermatid transport across the epithelium. We used a loss-of-function approach by RNAi to examine the role of KIF15 in Sertoli cell epithelium in vitro to examine its role in cytoskeletal-dependent Sertoli cell function. It was noted that KIF15 knockdown by RNAi that reduced KIF15 expression by ~70% in Sertoli cells with an established functional tight junction barrier impeded the barrier function. This effect was mediated through remarkable changes in the cytoskeletal organization of MTs, but also actin-, vimentin-, and septin-based cytoskeletons, illustrating that KIF15 exerts its regulatory effects well beyond microtubules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siwen Wu
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital, Department of Anesthesiology, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, NY, USA
| | - Lixiu Lv
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital, Department of Anesthesiology, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Linxi Li
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital, Department of Anesthesiology, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Lingling Wang
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Baiping Mao
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital, Department of Anesthesiology, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jun Li
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital, Department of Anesthesiology, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xian Shen
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital, Department of Anesthesiology, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Renshan Ge
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital, Department of Anesthesiology, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Chris K C Wong
- Croucher Institute for Environmental Sciences, Department of Biology, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
| | - Fei Sun
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - C Yan Cheng
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital, Department of Anesthesiology, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, NY, USA
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
- Correspondence: C. Yan Cheng, Ph.D., Senior Scientist, The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, 1230 York Ave, New York, NY 10065, USA.
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21
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Wang L, Yan M, Li H, Wu S, Ge R, Wong CKC, Silvestrini B, Sun F, Cheng CY. The Non-hormonal Male Contraceptive Adjudin Exerts its Effects via MAPs and Signaling Proteins mTORC1/rpS6 and FAK-Y407. Endocrinology 2021; 162:5936120. [PMID: 33094326 PMCID: PMC8244566 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqaa196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Adjudin, 1-(2,4-dichlorobenzyl)-1H-indazole-3-carbohydrazide (formerly called AF-2364), is a nonhormonal male contraceptive, since it effectively induces reversible male infertility without perturbing the serum concentrations of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), testosterone, and inhibin B based on studies in rats and rabbits. Adjudin was shown to exert its effects preferentially by perturbing the testis-specific actin-rich adherens junction (AJ) at the Sertoli-spermatid interface known as apical ectoplasmic specialization (apical ES), thereby effectively inducing spermatid exfoliation. Adjudin did not perturb germ cell development nor germ cell function. Also, it had no effects on Sertoli cell-cell AJ called basal ectoplasmic specialization (basal ES), which, together with tight junction constitute the blood-testis barrier (BTB), unless an acute dose of adjudin was used. Adjudin also did not perturb the population of spermatogonial stem cells nor Sertoli cells in the testis. However, the downstream signaling protein(s) utilized by adjudin to induce transient male infertility remains unexplored. Herein, using adult rats treated with adjudin and monitored changes in the phenotypes across the seminiferous epithelium between 6 and 96 h in parallel with the steady-state protein levels of an array of signaling and cytoskeletal regulatory proteins, recently shown to be involved in apical ES, basal ES and BTB function. It was shown that adjudin exerts its contraceptive effects through changes in microtubule associated proteins (MAPs) and signaling proteins mTORC1/rpS6 and p-FAK-Y407. These findings are important to not only study adjudin-mediated male infertility but also the biology of spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingling Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Screening, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, New York
| | - Ming Yan
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Screening, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Huitao Li
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Siwen Wu
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Renshan Ge
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Chris K C Wong
- Department of Biology, Croucher Institute for Environmental Sciences, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China
| | | | - Fei Sun
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - C Yan Cheng
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, New York
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
- 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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22
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Wu S, Li H, Wang L, Mak N, Wu X, Ge R, Sun F, Cheng CY. Motor Proteins and Spermatogenesis. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2021; 1288:131-159. [PMID: 34453735 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-77779-1_7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/19/2023]
Abstract
Unlike the intermediate filament- and septin-based cytoskeletons which are apolar structures, the microtubule (MT) and actin cytoskeletons are polarized structures in mammalian cells and tissues including the testis, most notable in Sertoli cells. In the testis, these cytoskeletons that stretch across the epithelium of seminiferous tubules and lay perpendicular to the basement membrane of tunica propria serve as tracks for corresponding motor proteins to support cellular cargo transport. These cargoes include residual bodies, phagosomes, endocytic vesicles and most notably developing spermatocytes and haploid spermatids which lack the ultrastructures of motile cells (e.g., lamellipodia, filopodia). As such, these developing germ cells require the corresponding motor proteins to facilitate their transport across the seminiferous epithelium during the epithelial cycle of spermatogenesis. Due to the polarized natures of these cytoskeletons with distinctive plus (+) and minus (-) end, directional cargo transport can take place based on the use of corresponding actin- or MT-based motor proteins. These include the MT-based minus (-) end directed motor proteins: dyneins, and the plus (+) end directed motor proteins: kinesins, as well as the actin-based motor proteins: myosins, many of which are plus (+) end directed but a few are also minus (-) end directed motor proteins. Recent studies have shown that these motor proteins are essential to support spermatogenesis. In this review, we briefly summarize and evaluate these recent findings so that this information will serve as a helpful guide for future studies and for planning functional experiments to better understand their role mechanistically in supporting spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siwen Wu
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Zhejiang, China.,The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, NY, USA
| | - Huitao Li
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Zhejiang, China.,The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, NY, USA
| | - Lingling Wang
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Zhejiang, China.,The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, NY, USA.,Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Nathan Mak
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, NY, USA
| | - Xiaolong Wu
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Renshan Ge
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Zhejiang, China
| | - Fei Sun
- Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital (SRRSH), Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - C Yan Cheng
- Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital (SRRSH), Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
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23
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Modulating the Blood–Testis Barrier Towards Increasing Drug Delivery. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2020; 41:690-700. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2020.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2020] [Revised: 07/02/2020] [Accepted: 07/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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