1
|
Wei Z, Wang Y, Zheng K, Wang Z, Liu R, Wang P, Li Y, Gao P, Akbari OS, Yang X. Loss-of-function in testis-specific serine/threonine protein kinase triggers male infertility in an invasive moth. Commun Biol 2024; 7:1256. [PMID: 39363033 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-024-06961-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 09/25/2024] [Indexed: 10/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Genetic biocontrol technologies present promising and eco-friendly strategies for the management of pest and insect-transmitted diseases. Although considerable advancements achieve in gene drive applications targeting mosquitoes, endeavors to combat agricultural pests have been somewhat restricted. Here, we identify that the testis-specific serine/threonine kinases (TSSKs) family is uniquely expressed in the testes of Cydia pomonella, a prominent global invasive species. We further generated male moths with disrupted the expression of TSSKs and those with TSSKs disrupted using RNA interference and CRISPR/Cas9 genetic editing techniques, resulting in significant disruptions in spermiogenesis, decreased sperm motility, and hindered development of eggs. Further explorations into the underlying post-transcriptional regulatory mechanisms reveales the involvement of lnc117962 as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) for miR-3960, thereby regulating TSSKs. Notably, orchard trials demonstrates that the release of male strains can effectively suppress population growth. Our findings indicate that targeting TSSKs could serve as a feasible avenue for managing C. pomonella populations, offering significant insights and potential strategies for controlling invasive pests through genetic sterile insect technique (gSIT) technology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zihan Wei
- College of Plant Protection, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, 110866, Liaoning, China
- Key Laboratory of Economical and Applied Entomology of Liaoning Province, Shenyang, 110866, Liaoning, China
- Key Laboratory of Major Agricultural Invasion Biological Monitoring and Control, Shenyang, 110866, Liaoning, China
| | - Yaqi Wang
- College of Plant Protection, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, 110866, Liaoning, China
- Key Laboratory of Economical and Applied Entomology of Liaoning Province, Shenyang, 110866, Liaoning, China
- Key Laboratory of Major Agricultural Invasion Biological Monitoring and Control, Shenyang, 110866, Liaoning, China
| | - Kangwu Zheng
- College of Plant Protection, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, 110866, Liaoning, China
- Key Laboratory of Economical and Applied Entomology of Liaoning Province, Shenyang, 110866, Liaoning, China
- Key Laboratory of Major Agricultural Invasion Biological Monitoring and Control, Shenyang, 110866, Liaoning, China
| | - Zhiping Wang
- College of Plant Protection, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, 110866, Liaoning, China.
- Key Laboratory of Economical and Applied Entomology of Liaoning Province, Shenyang, 110866, Liaoning, China.
| | - Ronghua Liu
- College of Plant Protection, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, 110866, Liaoning, China
- Key Laboratory of Economical and Applied Entomology of Liaoning Province, Shenyang, 110866, Liaoning, China
- Key Laboratory of Major Agricultural Invasion Biological Monitoring and Control, Shenyang, 110866, Liaoning, China
| | - Pengcheng Wang
- College of Plant Protection, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, 110866, Liaoning, China
- Key Laboratory of Economical and Applied Entomology of Liaoning Province, Shenyang, 110866, Liaoning, China
- Key Laboratory of Major Agricultural Invasion Biological Monitoring and Control, Shenyang, 110866, Liaoning, China
| | - Yuting Li
- College of Plant Protection, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, 110866, Liaoning, China
- Key Laboratory of Economical and Applied Entomology of Liaoning Province, Shenyang, 110866, Liaoning, China
- Key Laboratory of Major Agricultural Invasion Biological Monitoring and Control, Shenyang, 110866, Liaoning, China
| | - Ping Gao
- College of Plant Protection, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, 110866, Liaoning, China
- Key Laboratory of Economical and Applied Entomology of Liaoning Province, Shenyang, 110866, Liaoning, China
- Key Laboratory of Major Agricultural Invasion Biological Monitoring and Control, Shenyang, 110866, Liaoning, China
| | - Omar S Akbari
- School of Biological Sciences, Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Xueqing Yang
- College of Plant Protection, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, 110866, Liaoning, China.
- Key Laboratory of Economical and Applied Entomology of Liaoning Province, Shenyang, 110866, Liaoning, China.
- Key Laboratory of Major Agricultural Invasion Biological Monitoring and Control, Shenyang, 110866, Liaoning, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Badrhan S, Karanwal S, Pal A, Chera JS, Chauhan V, Patel A, Bhakat M, Datta TK, Kumar R. Differential protein repertoires related to sperm function identified in extracellular vesicles (EVs) in seminal plasma of distinct fertility buffalo ( Bubalus bubalis) bulls. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1400323. [PMID: 39135778 PMCID: PMC11318068 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1400323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Buffalo bulls are backbone of Indian dairy industry, and the quality of semen donating bulls determine the overall production efficiency of dairy farms. Seminal plasma harbor millions of lipid bilayer nanovesicles known as extracellular vesicles (EVs). These EVs carry a heterogenous cargo of essential biomolecules including fertility-associated proteins which contribute to fertilizing potential of spermatozoa. In this study, we explored size, concentration, and complete proteome profiles of SP EVs from two distinct fertility groups to uncover proteins influencing bull fertility. Through Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) it was found that purified EVs were present in 7-14 size exclusion chromatographic (SEC) fractions with sizes ranging from 146.5 to 258.7 nm in high fertile (HF) and low fertile (LF) bulls. Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis (NTA) confirmed the size of seminal EVs up to 200 nm, and concentrations varying from 2.84 to 6.82 × 1011 and 3.57 to 7.74 × 1011 particles per ml in HF and LF bulls, respectively. No significant difference was observed in size and concentration of seminal EVs between two groups. We identified a total of 1,862 and 1,807 proteins in seminal EVs of HF and LF bulls, respectively using high throughput LC-MS/MS approach. Out of these total proteins, 1,754 proteins were common in both groups and about 87 proteins were highly abundant in HF group while 1,292 were less abundant as compared to LF bulls. Gene ontology (GO) analysis, revealed that highly abundant proteins in HF group were mainly part of the nucleus and involved in nucleosome assembly along with DNA binding. Additionally, highly abundant proteins in EVs of HF group were found to be involved in spermatogenesis, motility, acrosome reaction, capacitation, gamete fusion, and cryotolerance. Two highly abundant proteins, protein disulfide-isomerase A4 and gelsolin, are associated with sperm-oocyte fusion and acrosome reaction, respectively, and their immunolocalization on spermatozoa may indicate that these proteins are transferred through EVs. Our evidences support that proteins in EVs and subsequently their presence on sperm, are strongly associated with sperm functions. Altogether, our investigation indicates that SPEVs possess crucial protein repertoires that are essential for enhancing sperm fertilizing capacity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shiva Badrhan
- Animal Genomics Laboratory, Animal Biotechnology Division, National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
| | - Seema Karanwal
- Animal Genomics Laboratory, Animal Biotechnology Division, National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
| | - Ankit Pal
- Animal Genomics Laboratory, Animal Biotechnology Division, National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
| | - Jatinder Singh Chera
- Animal Genomics Laboratory, Animal Biotechnology Division, National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
| | - Vitika Chauhan
- Animal Genomics Laboratory, Animal Biotechnology Division, National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
| | - Aditya Patel
- Animal Genomics Laboratory, Animal Biotechnology Division, National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
| | - Mukesh Bhakat
- ICAR- Central Institute of Research on Goat, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Tirtha K. Datta
- Central Institute for Research on Buffaloes, Hisar, Haryana, India
| | - Rakesh Kumar
- Animal Genomics Laboratory, Animal Biotechnology Division, National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Kim J, So B, Heo Y, So H, Jo JK. Advances in Male Contraception: When Will the Novel Male Contraception be Available? World J Mens Health 2024; 42:487-501. [PMID: 38164023 PMCID: PMC11216971 DOI: 10.5534/wjmh.230118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Many contraceptive methods have been developed over the years due to high demand. However, female contraceptive pills and devices do not work for all females due to health conditions and side effects. Also, the number of males who want to actively participate in family planning is gradually increasing. However, the only contraceptive options currently available to males are condoms and vasectomy. Therefore, many male contraceptive methods, including medication (hormonal and non-hormonal therapy) and mechanical methods, are under development. Reversibility, safety, persistence, degree of invasion, promptness, and the suppression of anti-sperm antibody formation are essential factors in the development of male contraceptive methods. In this paper, male contraceptive methods under development are reviewed according to those essential factors. Furthermore, the timeline for the availability of a new male contraception is discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jongwon Kim
- Department of Medical and Digital Engineering, Hanyang University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Byeongchan So
- Department of Medical and Digital Engineering, Hanyang University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Yongki Heo
- Department of Medical and Digital Engineering, Hanyang University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hongyun So
- Department of Medical and Digital Engineering, Hanyang University, Seoul, Korea
- Institute of Nano Science and Technology, Hanyang University, Seoul, Korea
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Hanyang University, Seoul, Korea.
| | - Jung Ki Jo
- Department of Medical and Digital Engineering, Hanyang University, Seoul, Korea
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine, Hanyang University, Seoul, Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Anu CN, Ashok K, Bhargava CN, Dhawane Y, Manamohan M, Jha GK, Asokan R. CRISPR/Cas9 mediated validation of spermatogenesis-related gene, tssk2 as a component of genetic pest management of fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae). ARCHIVES OF INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2024; 116:e22121. [PMID: 38783691 DOI: 10.1002/arch.22121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2024] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Invasive insect pests, currently, pose a serious economic threat to several staple crops all over the world, one such being the fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda. It was first observed in Africa since 2016, outside of its natural habitat in the Americas. Subsequently, it invaded several countries in South and South East Asia and also very recently in Australia. In all the newly invaded regions, maize is the principal crop attacked causing a serious economic concern to the poor farmers, particularly in the developing countries. Owing to the innate genetic ability, it defies many of the management options that include insecticides, Bt transgenics, and so forth. This is due to its high mobility, polyphagy and ability for quick development of resistance to several classes of insecticides. At this critical juncture, CRISPR/Cas9 mediated genome editing has shown a lot of promise in developing a novel area-wide pest management strategy called precision-guided sterile insect technique (pgSIT). pgSIT was initially demonstrated in Drosophila melanogaster which holds a greater promise for the environmentally friendly management of several globally significant agricultural pests such as S. frugiperda. Therefore, before developing both sgRNA and Cas9 transgenic lines, we have validated the target gene such as tssk2 through a non-transgenic approach by microinjecting ribo nucleo protein complex (Cas9 protein and tssk2 sgRNA) into G0 eggs of S. frugiperda. In the current investigation, we have obtained five edited males with distinct mutations which were further used for crossing studies to ascertain the effect of tssk2 editing affecting egg hatchability.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cholenahalli Narayanappa Anu
- Division of Basic Sciences, ICAR-Indian Institute of Horticultural Research, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
- Department of Agricultural Entomology, University of Agricultural Sciences, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - Karuppannasamy Ashok
- Division of Basic Sciences, ICAR-Indian Institute of Horticultural Research, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
- Department of Agricultural Entomology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India
- Tata Institute for Genetics and Society, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - Chikmagalur Nagaraja Bhargava
- Division of Basic Sciences, ICAR-Indian Institute of Horticultural Research, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
- Department of Agricultural Entomology, University of Agricultural Sciences, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - Yogi Dhawane
- Division of Basic Sciences, ICAR-Indian Institute of Horticultural Research, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - Maligeppagol Manamohan
- Division of Basic Sciences, ICAR-Indian Institute of Horticultural Research, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - Grish Kumar Jha
- Division of Bioinformatics, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Statistics Research Institute, New Delhi, India
| | - Ramasamy Asokan
- Division of Basic Sciences, ICAR-Indian Institute of Horticultural Research, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Tan SY, Liu CL, Han HL, Zhai XD, Jiang H, Wang BJ, Wang JJ, Wei D. Two heat shock cognate 70 genes involved in spermatogenesis regulate the male fertility of Zeugodacus cucurbitae, as potential targets for pest control. PESTICIDE BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2024; 200:105816. [PMID: 38582574 DOI: 10.1016/j.pestbp.2024.105816] [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: 11/04/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 02/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/08/2024]
Abstract
The melon fly Zeugodacus cucurbitae Coquillett (Diptera: Tephritidae) is an agricultural quarantine pest threatening fruit and vegetable production. Heat shock cognate 70 (Hsc70), which is a homolog of the heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70), was first discovered in mice testes and plays an important role in spermatogenesis. In this study, we identified and cloned five Hsc70 genes from melon fly, namely ZcHsc70_1/2/3/4/5. Phylogenetic analysis showed that these proteins are closely related to Hsc70s from other Diptera insects. Spatiotemporal expression analysis showed that ZcHsc70_1 and ZcHsc70_2 are highly expressed in Z. cucurbitae testes. Fluorescence in situ hybridization further demonstrated that ZcHsc70_1 and ZcHsc70_2 are expressed in the transformation and maturation regions of testes, respectively. Moreover, RNA interference-based suppression of ZcHsc70_1 or ZcHsc70_2 resulted in a significant decrease of 74.61% and 63.28% in egg hatchability, respectively. Suppression of ZcHsc70_1 expression delayed the transformation of sperm cells to mature sperms. Meanwhile, suppression of ZcHsc70_2 expression decreased both sperm cells and mature sperms by inhibiting the meiosis of spermatocytes. Our findings show that ZcHsc70_1/2 regulates spermatogenesis and further affects the male fertility in the melon fly, showing potential as targets for pest control in sterile insect technique by genetic manipulation of males.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shan-Yuan Tan
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China; Key Laboratory of Agricultural Biosafety and Green Production of Upper Yangtze River (Ministry of Education), Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Chuan-Lian Liu
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China; Key Laboratory of Agricultural Biosafety and Green Production of Upper Yangtze River (Ministry of Education), Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Hong-Liang Han
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China; Key Laboratory of Agricultural Biosafety and Green Production of Upper Yangtze River (Ministry of Education), Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Xiao-Di Zhai
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China; Key Laboratory of Agricultural Biosafety and Green Production of Upper Yangtze River (Ministry of Education), Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Hongbo Jiang
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China; Key Laboratory of Agricultural Biosafety and Green Production of Upper Yangtze River (Ministry of Education), Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Bao-Jun Wang
- Chongqing Agricultural Technology Extension Station, Chongqing 401121, China
| | - Jin-Jun Wang
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China; Key Laboratory of Agricultural Biosafety and Green Production of Upper Yangtze River (Ministry of Education), Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Dong Wei
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China; Key Laboratory of Agricultural Biosafety and Green Production of Upper Yangtze River (Ministry of Education), Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China; Key Laboratory of Surveillance and Management of Invasive Alien Species in Guizhou Education Department, Guiyang University, Guiyang 550005, China.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Kim CL, Lim SB, Choi SH, Kim DH, Sim YE, Jo EH, Kim K, Lee K, Park HS, Lim SB, Kang LJ, Jeong HS, Lee Y, Hansen CG, Mo JS. The LKB1-TSSK1B axis controls YAP phosphorylation to regulate the Hippo-YAP pathway. Cell Death Dis 2024; 15:76. [PMID: 38245531 PMCID: PMC10799855 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-024-06465-4] [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: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 01/22/2024]
Abstract
The Hippo pathway's main effector, Yes-associated protein (YAP), plays a crucial role in tumorigenesis as a transcriptional coactivator. YAP's phosphorylation by core upstream components of the Hippo pathway, such as mammalian Ste20 kinase 1/2 (MST1/2), mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase kinase kinases (MAP4Ks), and their substrate, large tumor suppressor 1/2 (LATS1/2), influences YAP's subcellular localization, stability, and transcriptional activity. However, recent research suggests the existence of alternative pathways that phosphorylate YAP, independent of these core upstream Hippo pathway components, raising questions about additional means to inactivate YAP. In this study, we present evidence demonstrating that TSSK1B, a calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase (CAMK) superfamily member, is a negative regulator of YAP, suppressing cellular proliferation and oncogenic transformation. Mechanistically, TSSK1B inhibits YAP through two distinct pathways. Firstly, the LKB1-TSSK1B axis directly phosphorylates YAP at Ser94, inhibiting the YAP-TEAD complex's formation and suppressing its target genes' expression. Secondly, the TSSK1B-LATS1/2 axis inhibits YAP via phosphorylation at Ser127. Our findings reveal the involvement of TSSK1B-mediated molecular mechanisms in the Hippo-YAP pathway, emphasizing the importance of multilevel regulation in critical cellular decision-making processes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cho-Long Kim
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Graduate School, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, 16499, South Korea
| | - Su-Bin Lim
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Graduate School, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, 16499, South Korea
| | - Sue-Hee Choi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Graduate School, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, 16499, South Korea
| | - Dong Hyun Kim
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Graduate School, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, 16499, South Korea
| | - Ye Eun Sim
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Graduate School, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, 16499, South Korea
| | - Eun-Hye Jo
- School of Biological Sciences and Technology, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, 61186, South Korea
| | - Keeeun Kim
- Institute of Medical Science, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, 16499, South Korea
| | - Keesook Lee
- School of Biological Sciences and Technology, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, 61186, South Korea
| | - Hee-Sae Park
- School of Biological Sciences and Technology, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, 61186, South Korea
| | - Su Bin Lim
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, 16499, South Korea
| | - Li-Jung Kang
- Three-Dimensional Immune System Imaging Core Facility, Ajou University, Suwon, 16499, South Korea
| | - Han-Sol Jeong
- Division of Applied Medicine, School of Korean Medicine, Pusan National University, Yangsan, 50612, South Korea
| | - Youngsoo Lee
- Institute of Medical Science, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, 16499, South Korea
| | - Carsten G Hansen
- The University of Edinburgh, Institute for Regeneration and Repair, Centre for Inflammation Research, Edinburgh BioQuarter, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Jung-Soon Mo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Graduate School, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, 16499, South Korea.
- Institute of Medical Science, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, 16499, South Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Louwagie EJ, Quinn GFL, Pond KL, Hansen KA. Male contraception: narrative review of ongoing research. Basic Clin Androl 2023; 33:30. [PMID: 37940863 PMCID: PMC10634021 DOI: 10.1186/s12610-023-00204-z] [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: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Since the release of the combined oral contraceptive pill in 1960, women have shouldered the burden of contraception and family planning. Over 60 years later, this is still the case as the only practical, effective contraceptive options available to men are condoms and vasectomy. However, there are now a variety of promising hormonal and non-hormonal male contraceptive options being studied. The purpose of this narrative review is to provide clinicians and laypeople with focused, up-to-date descriptions of novel strategies and targets for male contraception. We include a cautiously optimistic discussion of benefits and potential drawbacks, highlighting several methods in preclinical and clinical stages of development. RESULTS As of June 2023, two hormonal male contraceptive methods are undergoing phase II clinical trials for safety and efficacy. A large-scale, international phase IIb trial investigating efficacy of transdermal segesterone acetate (Nestorone) plus testosterone gel has enrolled over 460 couples with completion estimated for late 2024. A second hormonal method, dimethandrolone undecanoate, is in two clinical trials focusing on safety, pharmacodynamics, suppression of spermatogenesis and hormones; the first of these two is estimated for completion in December 2024. There are also several non-hormonal methods with strong potential in preclinical stages of development. CONCLUSIONS There exist several hurdles to novel male contraception. Therapeutic development takes decades of time, meticulous work, and financial investment, but with so many strong candidates it is our hope that there will soon be several safe, effective, and reversible contraceptive options available to male patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eli J Louwagie
- University of South Dakota Sanford School of Medicine, 1400 W 22nd St, Sioux Falls, SD, 57105, USA.
| | - Garrett F L Quinn
- University of South Dakota Sanford School of Medicine, 1400 W 22nd St, Sioux Falls, SD, 57105, USA
| | - Kristi L Pond
- University of South Dakota Sanford School of Medicine, 1400 W 22nd St, Sioux Falls, SD, 57105, USA
| | - Keith A Hansen
- Chair and Professor, Dept. of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of South Dakota Sanford School of Medicine; Reproductive Endocrinologist, Sanford Fertility and Reproductive Medicine, 1500 W 22nd St Suite 102, Sioux Falls, SD, 57105, USA
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Benoit JB, Finch G, Ankrum AL, Niemantsverdriet J, Paul B, Kelley M, Gantz JD, Matter SF, Lee RE, Denlinger DL. Reduced male fertility of an Antarctic mite following extreme heat stress could prompt localized population declines. Cell Stress Chaperones 2023; 28:541-549. [PMID: 37392307 PMCID: PMC10468472 DOI: 10.1007/s12192-023-01359-4] [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: 04/12/2023] [Revised: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Climate change is leading to substantial global thermal changes, which are particularly pronounced in polar regions. Therefore, it is important to examine the impact of heat stress on the reproduction of polar terrestrial arthropods, specifically, how brief extreme events may alter survival. We observed that sublethal heat stress reduces male fecundity in an Antarctic mite, yielding females that produced fewer viable eggs. Females and males collected from microhabitats with high temperatures showed a similar reduction in fertility. This impact is temporary, as indicated by recovery of male fecundity following return to cooler, stable conditions. The diminished fecundity is likely due to a drastic reduction in the expression of male-associated factors that occur in tandem with a substantial increase in the expression of heat shock proteins. Cross-mating between mites from different sites confirmed that heat-exposed populations have impaired male fertility. However, the negative impacts are transient as the effect on fertility declines with recovery time under less stressful conditions. Modeling indicated that heat stress is likely to reduce population growth and that short bouts of non-lethal heat stress could have substantial reproductive effects on local populations of Antarctic arthropods.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joshua B Benoit
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA.
| | - Geoffrey Finch
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Andrea L Ankrum
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
- Department of Environmental Health, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | | | - Bidisha Paul
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Melissa Kelley
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - J D Gantz
- Department of Biology, Miami University, Oxford, OH, USA
- Department of Biology and Health Science, Hendrix College, Conway, AR, USA
| | - Stephen F Matter
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Richard E Lee
- Department of Biology, Miami University, Oxford, OH, USA
| | - David L Denlinger
- Departments of Entomology and Evolution, Ecology and Organismal Biology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Tan X, Zhang X, Li X, Yang M, Li Y. Expression of Testis-specific Serine/Threonine Kinases during the Reproductive and Nonreproductive Seasons and Their Localization in Mature Spermatozoa of Tree Shrews ( Tupaia belangeri). Comp Med 2023; 73:277-284. [PMID: 37550055 PMCID: PMC10702283 DOI: 10.30802/aalas-cm-23-000043] [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: 02/03/2022] [Revised: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 08/09/2023]
Abstract
Tree shrews display obvious reproductive cycles, and sexually mature male tree shrews produce little or no sperm with extremely low motility during the nonreproductive season; the mechanism underlying this phenomenon remains unknown. Because testis-specific serine/threonine kinases (TSSK) are specifically expressed in the testis and male germ cells of mammals, we hypothesized that they may have an important role in spermatogenesis or sperm function regulation in tree shrews. In addition, the expression, distribution, subcellular localization, and dynamic changes of TSSK in tree shrew sperm are unclear. Here we show that during the reproductive season, the seminiferous tubules were significantly larger as compared with the nonreproductive season and contained mature sperm and other germ cells. The mRNA expression of Tssk genes in testis was significantly higher than that in other tissues, and the mRNA level in the testis during the reproductive season was significantly higher than that in nonreproductive season. In addition, the mRNA level of Tssk3 in the testis and sperm was significantly higher than that of other members. Specifically, Tssk1 mRNA was distributed in the acrosome and throughout the flagellum of tree shrew sperm, Tssk2 was present in the acrosome, Tssk3 was localized to postacrosomal region and relocated to the main part of the flagellum after capacitation, and Tssk6 was distributed in the acrosome and postacrosomal region. These results indicate that the TSSK are important regulating reproductive function in tree shrews.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xia Tan
- Faculty of Animal Science and Technology, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Xin Zhang
- Faculty of Animal Science and Technology, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Xiang Li
- Faculty of Animal Science and Technology, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Minghua Yang
- Faculty of Animal Science and Technology, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Yahui Li
- Faculty of Animal Science and Technology, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Leung MR, Zeng J, Wang X, Roelofs MC, Huang W, Zenezini Chiozzi R, Hevler JF, Heck AJR, Dutcher SK, Brown A, Zhang R, Zeev-Ben-Mordehai T. Structural specializations of the sperm tail. Cell 2023; 186:2880-2896.e17. [PMID: 37327785 PMCID: PMC10948200 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2023.05.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Revised: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Sperm motility is crucial to reproductive success in sexually reproducing organisms. Impaired sperm movement causes male infertility, which is increasing globally. Sperm are powered by a microtubule-based molecular machine-the axoneme-but it is unclear how axonemal microtubules are ornamented to support motility in diverse fertilization environments. Here, we present high-resolution structures of native axonemal doublet microtubules (DMTs) from sea urchin and bovine sperm, representing external and internal fertilizers. We identify >60 proteins decorating sperm DMTs; at least 15 are sperm associated and 16 are linked to infertility. By comparing DMTs across species and cell types, we define core microtubule inner proteins (MIPs) and analyze evolution of the tektin bundle. We identify conserved axonemal microtubule-associated proteins (MAPs) with unique tubulin-binding modes. Additionally, we identify a testis-specific serine/threonine kinase that links DMTs to outer dense fibers in mammalian sperm. Our study provides structural foundations for understanding sperm evolution, motility, and dysfunction at a molecular level.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Miguel Ricardo Leung
- Structural Biochemistry, Bijvoet Centre for Biomolecular Research, Utrecht University, 3584 CG Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Jianwei Zeng
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Washington University in St. Louis, School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Xiangli Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Washington University in St. Louis, School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Marc C Roelofs
- Structural Biochemistry, Bijvoet Centre for Biomolecular Research, Utrecht University, 3584 CG Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Wei Huang
- Department of Pharmacology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Riccardo Zenezini Chiozzi
- Biomolecular Mass Spectrometry & Proteomics, Bijvoet Centre for Biomolecular Research and Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht University, 3584 CH Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Johannes F Hevler
- Biomolecular Mass Spectrometry & Proteomics, Bijvoet Centre for Biomolecular Research and Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht University, 3584 CH Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Albert J R Heck
- Biomolecular Mass Spectrometry & Proteomics, Bijvoet Centre for Biomolecular Research and Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht University, 3584 CH Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Susan K Dutcher
- Department of Genetics, Washington University in St. Louis, St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Alan Brown
- Department of Biological Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Rui Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Washington University in St. Louis, School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA.
| | - Tzviya Zeev-Ben-Mordehai
- Structural Biochemistry, Bijvoet Centre for Biomolecular Research, Utrecht University, 3584 CG Utrecht, the Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Zhai XD, Zhang SY, Chen D, Li WJ, Wang JJ, Wei D. Comparative multi-tissue analyses identify testis-specific serine/threonine protein kinase (TSSK) genes involved in male fertility in the melon fly Zeugodacus cucurbitae. PEST MANAGEMENT SCIENCE 2023; 79:2040-2049. [PMID: 36693781 DOI: 10.1002/ps.7378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Zeugodacus cucurbitae is an agricultural pest species with robust reproductive capabilities capable of causing extensive damage. The advent of novel male fertility-related pest control strategies has been an area of active entomological research focused on the sterile insect technique (SIT) strategy. RESULTS RNA-sequencing analyses were conducted using 16 tissue samples from adult male Z. cucurbitae, leading to the identification of 5338 genes that were differentially expressed between the testes and three other analyzed tissue types. Of these genes, 808 exhibited high levels of testis expression. A quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) approach was used to validate the expression of ten of these genes selected at random, including ZcTSSK1 and ZcTSSK3, which are testis-specific serine/threonine protein kinase (TSSK) genes. Evaluation via a loss-of-function-based knockdown assay showed that the down-regulation of either of these two genes in males was associated with significantly decreased egg hatching rates. In situ hybridization analyses revealed the expression of both of these transcripts in the transformation zone, and significant decreases in Z. cucurbitae sperm numbers were observed following double-stranded RNA treatment. Together, these results suggested that inhibiting ZcTSSK1 and ZcTSSK3 expression was sufficient to alter male fertility in Z. cucurbitae. CONCLUSION These transcriptional sequencing results provide a foundation for further efforts to clarify the regulators of Z. cucurbitae male fertility. These preliminary analyses of the functions of ZcTSSK family genes as regulators of spermatogenesis underscore their importance in the processes integral to male fecundity and their potential as targets for pest control efforts centered on the genetic manipulation of males. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Di Zhai
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- International Joint Laboratory of China-Belgium on Sustainable Crop Pest Control, Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Biosafety and Green Production of Upper Yangtze River (Ministry of Education), Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Su-Yun Zhang
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- International Joint Laboratory of China-Belgium on Sustainable Crop Pest Control, Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Biosafety and Green Production of Upper Yangtze River (Ministry of Education), Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Dong Chen
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- International Joint Laboratory of China-Belgium on Sustainable Crop Pest Control, Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Biosafety and Green Production of Upper Yangtze River (Ministry of Education), Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Wei-Jun Li
- School of Agricultural Sciences, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, China
| | - Jin-Jun Wang
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- International Joint Laboratory of China-Belgium on Sustainable Crop Pest Control, Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Biosafety and Green Production of Upper Yangtze River (Ministry of Education), Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Dong Wei
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- International Joint Laboratory of China-Belgium on Sustainable Crop Pest Control, Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Biosafety and Green Production of Upper Yangtze River (Ministry of Education), Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Kavarthapu R, Anbazhagan R, Pal S, Dufau ML. Single-Cell Transcriptomic Profiling of the Mouse Testicular Germ Cells Reveals Important Role of Phosphorylated GRTH/DDX25 in Round Spermatid Differentiation and Acrosome Biogenesis during Spermiogenesis. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:3127. [PMID: 36834539 PMCID: PMC9962311 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24043127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Revised: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Gonadotropin-regulated testicular RNA helicase (GRTH)/DDX25 is a member of DEAD-box family of RNA helicase essential for the completion of spermatogenesis and male fertility, as evident from GRTH-knockout (KO) mice. In germ cells of male mice, there are two species of GRTH, a 56 kDa non-phosphorylated form and 61 kDa phosphorylated form (pGRTH). GRTH Knock-In (KI) mice with R242H mutation abolished pGRTH and its absence leads to infertility. To understand the role of the GRTH in germ cell development at different stages during spermatogenesis, we performed single-cell RNA-seq analysis of testicular cells from adult WT, KO and KI mice and studied the dynamic changes in gene expression. Pseudotime analysis revealed a continuous developmental trajectory of germ cells from spermatogonia to elongated spermatids in WT mice, while in both KO and KI mice the trajectory was halted at round spermatid stage indicating incomplete spermatogenesis process. The transcriptional profiles of KO and KI mice were significantly altered during round spermatid development. Genes involved in spermatid differentiation, translation process and acrosome vesicle formation were significantly downregulated in the round spermatids of KO and KI mice. Ultrastructure of round spermatids of KO and KI mice revealed several abnormalities in acrosome formation that includes failure of pro-acrosome vesicles to fuse to form a single acrosome vesicle, and fragmentation of acrosome structure. Our findings highlight the crucial role of pGRTH in differentiation of round spermatids into elongated spermatids, acrosome biogenesis and its structural integrity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Raghuveer Kavarthapu
- Section on Molecular Endocrinology, Division of Developmental Biology, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Rajakumar Anbazhagan
- Section on Molecular Endocrinology, Division of Developmental Biology, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Soumitra Pal
- Neurobiology-Neurodegeneration and Repair Laboratory, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Maria L. Dufau
- Section on Molecular Endocrinology, Division of Developmental Biology, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Zhu Y, Pan B, Fei X, Hu Y, Yang M, Yu H, Li J, Xiong X. The Biological Characteristics and Differential Expression Patterns of TSSK1B Gene in Yak and Its Infertile Hybrid Offspring. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13020320. [PMID: 36670860 PMCID: PMC9854725 DOI: 10.3390/ani13020320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Revised: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the spatially and temporally expressed patterns and biological characteristics of TSSK1B in male yaks and explore the potential correlation between TSSK1B and male sterility of the yak hybrid offspring (termed cattle-yak). First, the coding sequence (CDS) of TSSK1B was cloned by RT-PCR, and bioinformatics analysis was conducted with relevant software. Quantitative real-time PCR (RT-qPCR) was employed to detect the expression profile of TSSK1B in various tissues of male adult yaks, the spatiotemporal expression of TSSK1B in different stages of yak testes, and the differential expression of TSSK1B between yak and cattle-yak testes. The cellular localization of TSSK1B was determined by immunohistochemistry (IHC). Furthermore, the methylation status of the TSSK1B promoter region was analyzed by bisulfite-sequencing PCR (BSP). The results showed that TSSK1B was 1235 bp long, including 1104 bp of the CDS region, which encoded 367 amino acids. It was a conserved gene sharing the highest homology with Bos mutus (99.67%). In addition, the bioinformatics analysis revealed that TSSK1B was an unstable hydrophilic protein mainly containing the alpha helix of 34.06% and a random coil of 44.41%, with a transmembrane structure of 29 amino acids long. The RT-qPCR results demonstrated that TSSK1B was specifically expressed in yak testes compared with that in other tissues and especially highly expressed in adult yak testes. On the contrary, TSSK1B was hardly expressed in the testis of adult cattle-yak. IHC confirmed that TSSK1B protein was more strongly expressed in the testes of adult yaks than in their fetal and juvenile counterparts. Interestingly, nearly no expression was observed in the testes of cattle-yak compared with the corresponding testes of yak. Bisulfite-sequencing PCR (BSP) revealed that the methylated CpG sites in the TSSK1B promoter region of cattle-yak was significantly higher than that in the yak. Taken together, this study revealed that TSSK1B was specifically expressed in yak testes and highly expressed upon sexual maturity. Moreover, the rare expression in cattle-yak may be related to the hypermethylation of the promoter region, thereby providing a basis for further studies on the regulatory mechanism of TSSK1B in male cattle-yak sterility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yanjin Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau Animal Genetic Reservation and Exploitation of Ministry of Education, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu 610041, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Science of National Ethnic Affairs Commission, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Bangting Pan
- Key Laboratory of Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau Animal Genetic Reservation and Exploitation of Ministry of Education, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Xixi Fei
- Key Laboratory of Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau Animal Genetic Reservation and Exploitation of Ministry of Education, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Yulei Hu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Science of National Ethnic Affairs Commission, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Manzhen Yang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Science of National Ethnic Affairs Commission, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Hailing Yu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Science of National Ethnic Affairs Commission, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Jian Li
- Key Laboratory of Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau Animal Genetic Reservation and Exploitation of Ministry of Education, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu 610041, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Science of National Ethnic Affairs Commission, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Xianrong Xiong
- Key Laboratory of Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau Animal Genetic Reservation and Exploitation of Ministry of Education, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu 610041, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Science of National Ethnic Affairs Commission, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu 610041, China
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Yunaini L, Ari Pujianto D. Various gene modification techniques to discover molecular targets for nonhormonal male contraceptives: A review. Int J Reprod Biomed 2023; 21:17-32. [PMID: 36875503 PMCID: PMC9982321 DOI: 10.18502/ijrm.v21i1.12662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2021] [Revised: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/20/2022] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The identification and characterization of relevant targets are necessary for developing nonhormonal male contraceptives. The molecules must demonstrate that they are necessary for reproduction. As a result, a sophisticated technique is required to identify the molecular targets for nonhormonal male contraceptives. Genetic modification (GM) techniques are one method that can be applied. This technique has been widely used to study gene function that effected male fertility and has resulted in the discovery of numerous nonhormonal male contraceptive target molecules. We examined GM techniques and approaches used to investigate genes involved in male fertility as potential targets for nonhormonal contraceptives. The discovery of nonhormonal contraceptive candidate molecules was increased by using GM techniques, especially the Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats/Cas9 method. The discovery of candidate nonhormonal contraceptive molecules can be a wide-open research for the development of nonhormonal male contraceptives. Therefore, we are believing that one day nonhormonal male contraceptives will be released.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luluk Yunaini
- Doctoral Program of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta Pusat, Indonesia.,Department of Medicine Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta Pusat, Indonesia
| | - Dwi Ari Pujianto
- Department of Medicine Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta Pusat, Indonesia
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Zhan P, Hao T, Yang X, Zhang Y. Association between chromosome 22q11.2 translocation and male oligozoospermia. Medicine (Baltimore) 2022; 101:e30790. [PMID: 36181097 PMCID: PMC9524881 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000030790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Chromosomal aberrations in peripheral blood are a major cause of reproductive disorders for the infertile couples. Reciprocal translocation is closely related to male infertility. The breakpoint of translocation may disrupt or dysregulate important genes related to spermatogenesis. The relationship between some breakpoints of chromosome and male infertility has been paid attention. Chromosome 22q11.2 translocation has not been reported with male infertility. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the relationship between chromosome 22q11.2 translocation and male infertility. All patients were collected from the second hospital of Jilin University. Semen parameters were detected using the computer-aided semen analysis system. Cytogenetic analysis was performed using standard operating procedure. Related genes on chromosomal breakpoints were searched using online mendelian inheritance in man (OMIM). The association between this breakpoint and spermatogenesis is also discussed. We report 6 cases of translocation in chromosome 22. Of 7 breakpoints involved in these translocations, the common feature is that they all included chromosome 22q11.2 translocation and presented with oligozoospermia. The analysis of breakpoint related genes showed testis-specific serine/threonine kinase 2 (TSSK2) gene is associated with human spermatogenesis impairment. Overall, these results suggest that the breakpoint involved in translocation deserves attention from physicians in genetic counseling. The breakpoint rearrangement has the possibility of disrupting spermatogenesis. The relationship between 22q11.2 breakpoint and male infertility deserves further study.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Peng Zhan
- Department of Urology, the Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Tingting Hao
- Department of Urology, the Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Xiao Yang
- Department of Urology, the Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
- *Correspondence: Xiao Yang, Department of Urology, the Second Hospital of Jilin University, 218 Ziqiang Street, Nanguan District, Changchun, Jilin Province 130041, China (e-mail: )
| | - Yi Zhang
- Department of Urology, the Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Kadiyska T, Tourtourikov I, Dabchev K, Madzharova D, Tincheva S, Spandidos DA, Zoumpourlis V. Role of testis‑specific serine kinase 1B in undiagnosed male infertility. Mol Med Rep 2022; 25:204. [PMID: 35485285 PMCID: PMC9073834 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2022.12720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Male infertility is a global problem affecting a considerable part of the male population. Current guidelines and practices aimed at diagnosing the cause of this problem still have low diagnostic yield. As novel candidate genes for infertility emerge, their functional role needs to be investigated in patient populations. The present study aimed to investigate testis-specific serine kinase 1B (TSSK1B), which was discovered in a previously diagnosed patient. Sanger sequencing of the coding regions and exon borders of TSSK1B was performed in a cohort of 100 male Bulgarian patients with unresolved infertility causes. Missense mutations were discovered in 10% of patients and were associated with clinical data on sperm dysmorphology. Two previously unreported mutations were discovered, p.3D>N and p.52F>L. All mutations were scored via in silico predictors and protein modelling using AlphaFold2. The present findings indicated an association between TSSK1B mutations and asthenoteratozoospermia, with further missense mutations in patients with azoospermia and teratozoospermia. Mutations in TSSK1B may be a cause of undiagnosed cases of male infertility and should be considered when molecular diagnostics are warranted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tanya Kadiyska
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Medical University, 1413 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | | | | | | | - Savina Tincheva
- Genetic Medico‑Diagnostic Laboratory 'Genica', 1612 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Demetrios A Spandidos
- Laboratory of Clinical Virology, Medical School, University of Crete, Heraklion 71003, Greece
| | - Vassilis Zoumpourlis
- Biomedical Applications Unit, Institute of Chemical Biology, National Hellenic Research Foundation, 11635 Athens, Greece
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Omolaoye TS, Hachim MY, du Plessis SS. Using publicly available transcriptomic data to identify mechanistic and diagnostic biomarkers in azoospermia and overall male infertility. Sci Rep 2022; 12:2584. [PMID: 35173218 PMCID: PMC8850557 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-06476-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Azoospermia, which is the absence of spermatozoa in an ejaculate occurring due to defects in sperm production, or the obstruction of the reproductive tract, affects about 1% of all men and is prevalent in up to 10–15% of infertile males. Conventional semen analysis remains the gold standard for diagnosing and treating male infertility; however, advances in molecular biology and bioinformatics now highlight the insufficiency thereof. Hence, the need to widen the scope of investigating the aetiology of male infertility stands pertinent. The current study aimed to identify common differentially expressed genes (DEGs) that might serve as potential biomarkers for non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) and overall male infertility. DEGs across different datasets of transcriptomic profiling of testis from human patients with different causes of infertility/ impaired spermatogenesis and/or azoospermia were explored using the gene expression omnibus (GEO) database. Following the search using the GEOquery, 30 datasets were available, with 5 meeting the inclusion criteria. The DEGs for datasets were identified using limma R packages through the GEO2R tool. The annotated genes of the probes in each dataset were intersected with DEGs from all other datasets. Enriched Ontology Clustering for the identified genes was performed using Metascape to explore the possible connection or interaction between the genes. Twenty-five DEGs were shared between most of the datasets, which might indicate their role in the pathogenesis of male infertility. Of the 25 DEGs, eight genes (THEG, SPATA20, ROPN1L, GSTF1, TSSK1B, CABS1, ADAD1, RIMBP3) are either involved in the overall spermatogenic processes or at specific phases of spermatogenesis. We hypothesize that alteration in the expression of these genes leads to impaired spermatogenesis and, ultimately, male infertility. Thus, these genes can be used as potential biomarkers for the early detection of NOA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Temidayo S Omolaoye
- Department of Basic Sciences, College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, UAE
| | - Mahmood Yaseen Hachim
- Department of Basic Sciences, College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, UAE.
| | - Stefan S du Plessis
- Department of Basic Sciences, College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, UAE.,Division of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Ma X, Wang B, Li Z, Ding X, Wen Y, Shan W, Hu W, Wang X, Xia Y. Effects of glufosinate-ammonium on male reproductive health: Focus on epigenome and transcriptome in mouse sperm. CHEMOSPHERE 2022; 287:132395. [PMID: 34597628 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2021.132395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Revised: 09/18/2021] [Accepted: 09/26/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Glufosinate-ammonium (GLA) is a widely used herbicide with emerging concern over its neural and reproductive toxicity. To uncover potential effects of GLA on male reproductive health in mammals, adult male C57BL/6J mice were administered 0.2 mg/kg·d GLA for 5 weeks. After examination on fertility, testis histology and semen quality in the GLA group, we performed deep sequencing to identify repressive epigenetic marks including DNA methylation and histone modifications (H3K27me3 and H3K9me3), together with mRNA transcript levels in sperm. Then, we integrated multi-omics sequencing data to comprehensively explore GLA-induced epigenetic and transcriptomic alterations. We found no significant difference either on fertility, testis histology or semen quality-related indicators. As for epigenome, the protein level of H3K27me3 was significantly increased in GLA sperm. Next generation sequencing showed alterations of these epigenetic marks and extensive transcription inhibition in sperm. These differential repressive marks were mainly distributed at intergenic regions and introns. According to results by Gene Ontology enrichment analysis, both differentially methylated and expressed genes were mainly enriched in pathways related to synapse organization. Subtle differences in genomic imprinting were also observed between the two groups. These results suggested that GLA predominantly impaired sperm epigenome and transcriptome in mice, with little effect on fertility, testis histology or semen quality. Further studies on human sperm using similar strategies need to be conducted for a better understanding of the male reproductive toxicity of GLA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China; Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Bingqian Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China; Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Zhe Li
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China; Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Xingwang Ding
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China; Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Ya Wen
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China; Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Wenqi Shan
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China; Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Weiyue Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, 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, Nanjing, 211166, 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, Nanjing, 211166, China; Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Sinha S, Knapp M, Pywtorak J, McCain G, Wingerden K, VanDervoort C, Gondek JM, Madrid P, Parman T, Gerrard S, Long JE, Blithe DL, Moss S, Lee MS. Contraceptive and Infertility Target DataBase: a contraceptive drug development tool for targeting and analysis of human reproductive specific tissues†. Biol Reprod 2021; 105:1366-1374. [PMID: 34514504 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioab172] [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: 07/02/2021] [Revised: 09/02/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The long and challenging drug development process begins with discovery biology for the selection of an appropriate target for a specific indication. Target is a broad term that can be applied to a range of biological entities such as proteins, genes, and ribonucleic acids (RNAs). Although there are numerous databases available for mining biological entities, publicly available searchable, downloadable databases to aid in target selection for a specific disease or indication (e.g., developing contraceptives and infertility treatments) are limited. We report the development of the Contraceptive and Infertility Target DataBase (https://www.citdbase.org), which provides investigators an interface to mine existing transcriptomic and proteomic resources to identify high-quality contraceptive/infertility targets. The development of similar databases is applicable to the identification of targets for other diseases and conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Jill E Long
- Contraceptive Development Program, Division of Intramural Population Health Research, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Diana L Blithe
- Contraceptive Development Program, Division of Intramural Population Health Research, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Stuart Moss
- Fertility and Infertility Branch, Division of Extramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Min S Lee
- Contraceptive Development Program, Division of Intramural Population Health Research, Bethesda, MD, USA
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Nayyab S, Gervasi MG, Tourzani DA, Caraballo DA, Jha KN, Teves ME, Cui W, Georg GI, Visconti PE, Salicioni AM. TSSK3, a novel target for male contraception, is required for spermiogenesis. Mol Reprod Dev 2021; 88:718-730. [PMID: 34623009 PMCID: PMC8961454 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
We have previously shown that members of the family of testis-specific serine/threonine kinases (TSSKs) are post-meiotically expressed in testicular germ cells and in mature sperm in mammals. The restricted post-meiotic expression of TSSKs as well as the importance of phosphorylation in signaling processes strongly suggest that TSSKs have an important role in germ cell differentiation and/or sperm function. This prediction has been supported by the reported sterile phenotype of the TSSK6 knock-out (KO) mice and of the double TSSK1/TSSK2 KO. The aim of this study was to develop KO mouse models of TSSK3 and to validate this kinase as a target for the development of a male contraceptive. We used CRISPR/Cas9 technology to generate the TSSK3 KO allele on B6D2F1 background mice. Male heterozygous pups were used to establish three independent TSSK3 KO lines. After natural mating of TSSK3 KO males, females that presented a plug (indicative of mating) were monitored for the following 24 days and no pregnancies or pups were found. Sperm numbers were drastically reduced in all three KO lines and, remarkably, round spermatids were detected in the cauda epididymis of KO mice. From the small population of sperm recovered, severe morphology defects were detected. Our results indicate an essential role of TSSK3 in spermiogenesis and support this kinase as a suitable candidate for the development of novel nonhormonal male contraceptives.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Saman Nayyab
- Department of Veterinary & Animal Sciences and University of Massachusetts-Amherst, MA, USA
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Graduate Program, University of Massachusetts-Amherst, MA, USA
| | - María G. Gervasi
- Department of Veterinary & Animal Sciences and University of Massachusetts-Amherst, MA, USA
| | - Darya A. Tourzani
- Department of Veterinary & Animal Sciences and University of Massachusetts-Amherst, MA, USA
- Biotechnology Training Program, University of Massachusetts-Amherst, MA, USA
| | - Diego A. Caraballo
- Instituto de Ecología, Genética y Evolución (IEGEBA), Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Kula N. Jha
- Division of Biotechnology Review and Research IV, Office of Biotechnology Products, Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, MD, USA
| | - Maria E. Teves
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond VA, USA
| | - Wei Cui
- Department of Veterinary & Animal Sciences and University of Massachusetts-Amherst, MA, USA
- Animal Models Core Facility, Institute for Applied Life Sciences (IALS), University of Massachusetts-Amherst, MA, USA
| | - Gunda I. Georg
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Institute for Therapeutics Discovery and Development, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Pablo E. Visconti
- Department of Veterinary & Animal Sciences and University of Massachusetts-Amherst, MA, USA
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Graduate Program, University of Massachusetts-Amherst, MA, USA
| | - Ana M. Salicioni
- Department of Veterinary & Animal Sciences and University of Massachusetts-Amherst, MA, USA
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Graduate Program, University of Massachusetts-Amherst, MA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Long JE, Lee MS, Blithe DL. Update on Novel Hormonal and Nonhormonal Male Contraceptive Development. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2021; 106:e2381-e2392. [PMID: 33481994 PMCID: PMC8344836 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgab034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The advent of new methods of male contraception would increase contraceptive options for men and women and advance male contraceptive agency. Pharmaceutical R&D for male contraception has been dormant since the 1990s. The Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) has supported a contraceptive development program since 1969 and supports most ongoing hormonal male contraceptive development. Nonhormonal methods are in earlier stages of development. CONTENT Several hormonal male contraceptive agents have entered clinical trials. Novel single agent products being evaluated include dimethandrolone undecanoate, 11β-methyl-nortestosterone dodecylcarbonate, and 7α-methyl-19-nortestosterone. A contraceptive efficacy trial of Nestorone®/testosterone gel is underway. Potential nonhormonal methods are at preclinical stages of development. Many nonhormonal male contraceptive targets that affect sperm production, sperm function, or sperm transport have been identified. SUMMARY NICHD supports development of reversible male contraceptive agents. Other organizations such as the World Health Organization, the Population Council, and the Male Contraception Initiative are pursuing male contraceptive development, but industry involvement remains limited.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jill E Long
- Contraceptive Development Program, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
- Correspondence: Dr. Jill Long, 6710B Rockledge Drive, Room 3243, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
| | - Min S Lee
- Contraceptive Development Program, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Diana L Blithe
- Contraceptive Development Program, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Liu Q, Guo Q, Guo W, Song S, Wang N, Chen X, Sun A, Yan L, Qiao J. Loss of CEP70 function affects acrosome biogenesis and flagella formation during spermiogenesis. Cell Death Dis 2021; 12:478. [PMID: 33980814 PMCID: PMC8116340 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-021-03755-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Revised: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
The spermatogenesis process is complex and delicate, and any error in a step may cause spermatogenesis arrest and even male infertility. According to our previous transcriptomic data, CEP70 is highly expressed throughout various stages of human spermatogenesis, especially during the meiosis and deformation stages. CEP70 is present in sperm tails and that it exists in centrosomes as revealed by human centrosome proteomics. However, the specific mechanism of this protein in spermatogenesis is still unknown. In this study, we found a heterozygous site of the same mutation on CEP70 through mutation screening of patients with clinical azoospermia. To further verify, we deleted CEP70 in mice and found that it caused abnormal spermatogenesis, leading to male sterility. We found that the knockout of CEP70 did not affect the prophase of meiosis I, but led to male germ-cell apoptosis and abnormal spermiogenesis. By transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis, we found that the deletion of CEP70 resulted in the abnormal formation of flagella and acrosomes during spermiogenesis. Tandem mass tag (TMT)-labeled quantitative proteomic analysis revealed that the absence of CEP70 led to a significant decrease in the proteins associated with the formation of the flagella, head, and acrosome of sperm, and the microtubule cytoskeleton. Taken together, our results show that CEP70 is essential for acrosome biogenesis and flagella formation during spermiogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qiang Liu
- grid.411642.40000 0004 0605 3760Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China ,grid.411642.40000 0004 0605 3760National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology (Peking University Third Hospital), Beijing, China ,grid.419897.a0000 0004 0369 313XKey Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction (Peking University), Ministry of Education, Beijing, China ,grid.411642.40000 0004 0605 3760Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Qianying Guo
- grid.411642.40000 0004 0605 3760Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China ,grid.411642.40000 0004 0605 3760National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology (Peking University Third Hospital), Beijing, China ,grid.419897.a0000 0004 0369 313XKey Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction (Peking University), Ministry of Education, Beijing, China ,grid.411642.40000 0004 0605 3760Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Guo
- grid.411642.40000 0004 0605 3760Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China ,grid.411642.40000 0004 0605 3760National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology (Peking University Third Hospital), Beijing, China ,grid.419897.a0000 0004 0369 313XKey Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction (Peking University), Ministry of Education, Beijing, China ,grid.411642.40000 0004 0605 3760Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Shi Song
- grid.411642.40000 0004 0605 3760Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China ,grid.411642.40000 0004 0605 3760National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology (Peking University Third Hospital), Beijing, China ,grid.419897.a0000 0004 0369 313XKey Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction (Peking University), Ministry of Education, Beijing, China ,grid.411642.40000 0004 0605 3760Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Nan Wang
- grid.411642.40000 0004 0605 3760Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China ,grid.411642.40000 0004 0605 3760National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology (Peking University Third Hospital), Beijing, China ,grid.419897.a0000 0004 0369 313XKey Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction (Peking University), Ministry of Education, Beijing, China ,grid.411642.40000 0004 0605 3760Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Xi Chen
- grid.411642.40000 0004 0605 3760Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China ,grid.411642.40000 0004 0605 3760National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology (Peking University Third Hospital), Beijing, China ,grid.419897.a0000 0004 0369 313XKey Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction (Peking University), Ministry of Education, Beijing, China ,grid.411642.40000 0004 0605 3760Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Andi Sun
- grid.411642.40000 0004 0605 3760Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China ,grid.411642.40000 0004 0605 3760National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology (Peking University Third Hospital), Beijing, China ,grid.419897.a0000 0004 0369 313XKey Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction (Peking University), Ministry of Education, Beijing, China ,grid.411642.40000 0004 0605 3760Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Liying Yan
- grid.411642.40000 0004 0605 3760Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China ,grid.411642.40000 0004 0605 3760National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology (Peking University Third Hospital), Beijing, China ,grid.419897.a0000 0004 0369 313XKey Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction (Peking University), Ministry of Education, Beijing, China ,grid.411642.40000 0004 0605 3760Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Jie Qiao
- grid.411642.40000 0004 0605 3760Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China ,grid.411642.40000 0004 0605 3760National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology (Peking University Third Hospital), Beijing, China ,grid.419897.a0000 0004 0369 313XKey Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction (Peking University), Ministry of Education, Beijing, China ,grid.411642.40000 0004 0605 3760Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology, Beijing, China ,grid.506261.60000 0001 0706 7839Research Units of Comprehensive Diagnosis and Treatment of Oocyte Maturation Arrest, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Corral-Vazquez C, Blanco J, Aiese Cigliano R, Sarrate Z, Rivera-Egea R, Vidal F, Garrido N, Daub C, Anton E. The RNA content of human sperm reflects prior events in spermatogenesis and potential post-fertilization effects. Mol Hum Reprod 2021; 27:6265603. [PMID: 33950245 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaab035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2020] [Revised: 04/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Transcriptome analyses using high-throughput methodologies allow a deeper understanding of biological functions in different cell types/tissues. The present study provides an RNA-seq profiling of human sperm mRNAs and lncRNAs (messenger and long non-coding RNAs) in a well-characterized population of fertile individuals. Sperm RNA was extracted from twelve ejaculate samples under strict quality controls. Poly(A)-transcripts were sequenced and aligned to the human genome. mRNAs and lncRNAs were classified according to their mean expression values (FPKM: Fragments Per Kilobase of transcript per Million mapped reads) and integrity. Gene Ontology analysis of the Expressed and Highly Expressed mRNAs showed an involvement in diverse reproduction processes, while the Ubiquitously Expressed and Highly Stable mRNAs were mainly involved in spermatogenesis. Transcription factor enrichment analyses revealed that the Highly Expressed and Ubiquitously Expressed sperm mRNAs were primarily regulated by zinc-fingers and spermatogenesis-related proteins. Regarding the Expressed lncRNAs, only one-third of their potential targets corresponded to Expressed mRNAs and were enriched in cell-cycle regulation processes. The remaining two-thirds were absent in sperm and were enriched in embryogenesis-related processes. A significant amount of post-testicular sperm mRNAs and lncRNAs was also detected. Even though our study is solely directed to the poly-A fraction of sperm transcripts, results indicate that both sperm mRNAs and lncRNAs constitute a footprint of previous spermatogenesis events and are configured to affect the first stages of embryo development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C Corral-Vazquez
- Genetics of Male Fertility Group, Unitat de Biologia Cel·lular (Facultat de Biociències), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain
| | - J Blanco
- Genetics of Male Fertility Group, Unitat de Biologia Cel·lular (Facultat de Biociències), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain
| | | | - Z Sarrate
- Genetics of Male Fertility Group, Unitat de Biologia Cel·lular (Facultat de Biociències), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain
| | - R Rivera-Egea
- IVIRMA Valencia, IVI Foundation, Laboratorio de Andrología, Valencia, Spain
| | - F Vidal
- Genetics of Male Fertility Group, Unitat de Biologia Cel·lular (Facultat de Biociències), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain
| | - N Garrido
- IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria la Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | - C Daub
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - E Anton
- Genetics of Male Fertility Group, Unitat de Biologia Cel·lular (Facultat de Biociències), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Xue X, Zhang L, Li Y, Wei H, Wu S, Liu T, Liu L, Xing Q, Wang S, Bao Z. Expression of the Testis-Specific Serine/Threonine Kinases Suggests Their Role in Spermiogenesis of Bay Scallop Argopecten irradians. Front Physiol 2021; 12:657559. [PMID: 33859575 PMCID: PMC8042308 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.657559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2021] [Accepted: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Members of the testis-specific serine/threonine kinases (Tssk) family play critical roles in spermatogenesis in vertebrates. But in mollusks, research on Tssk family is still lagging. In this study, we systematically identified Tssk family based on the genomic and transcriptomic data from a commercially important scallop Argopecten irradians and detected the spatiotemporal expression in adult gonads. Five members were identified, with the gene length varying from 1,068 to 10,729 bp and the protein length ranging from 294 to 731 aa. All the Tssks possess a serine/threonine protein kinase catalytic (S_TKc) domain. Phylogenetic analysis revealed existence of four homologs of vertebrate Tssk1/2, Tssk3, Tssk4, Tssk5, and absence of Tssk6 in the scallop. The remaining gene (Tssk7) formed an independent clade with Tssks of other mollusks and arthropods, indicating that it may be a new member of Tssk family unique to protostomes. By investigating the expression of Tssks in four developmental stages of testes and ovaries, we found all five Tssks were primarily expressed in mature testis. In situ hybridization experiment revealed the five Tssks were localized in the spermatids and spermatozoa. The testis-predominant expression of Tssk family suggests Tssks may play pivotal roles in spermiogenesis in the scallop. Our study provides basic information on the characteristics and expression profiles of Tssk family of A. irradians. To our knowledge, it represents the first comprehensive analysis of Tssk family in mollusks.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xinru Xue
- MOE Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China
| | - Lingling Zhang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China.,Laboratory for Marine Fisheries Science and Food Production Processes, Pilot National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology (Qingdao), Qingdao, China
| | - Yajuan Li
- MOE Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China
| | - Huilan Wei
- MOE Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China
| | - Shaoxuan Wu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China
| | - Tian Liu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China
| | - Liangjie Liu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China
| | - Qiang Xing
- MOE Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China.,Laboratory for Marine Fisheries Science and Food Production Processes, Pilot National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology (Qingdao), Qingdao, China
| | - Shi Wang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China.,Laboratory for Marine Biology and Biotechnology, Pilot National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology (Qingdao), Qingdao, China.,Laboratory of Tropical Marine Germplasm Resources and Breeding Engineering, Sanya Oceanographic Institution, Ocean University of China, Sanya, China
| | - Zhenmin Bao
- MOE Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China.,Laboratory for Marine Fisheries Science and Food Production Processes, Pilot National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology (Qingdao), Qingdao, China.,Laboratory of Tropical Marine Germplasm Resources and Breeding Engineering, Sanya Oceanographic Institution, Ocean University of China, Sanya, China
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Li X, Li Y, Song W, Xie D, Zhu F, Yang M, Li Y. cDNA cloning, expression and bioinformatical analysis of Tssk genes in tree shrews. Comput Biol Chem 2021; 92:107474. [PMID: 33765466 DOI: 10.1016/j.compbiolchem.2021.107474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2019] [Revised: 10/09/2020] [Accepted: 03/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Tree shrews are more closely related to primate animals than rodents in many aspects. In addition, they also possess several advantageous characteristics including small body size, high brain-to-body mass ratio, low cost of feeding and maintenance, short reproductive cycle and life span, which make them promising novel laboratory animals to replace more precious larger primate animals. Testis-specific serine/threonine kinase (Tssk) plays important roles in spermatogenesis and/or the regulation of sperm function. However, studies on Tssk in tree shrews have not been reported yet. In the present study, the full-length sequences of five members of the Tssk family in tree shrews were cloned and their CDS region sequences were analyzed by basic bioinformatics. The phylogenetic tree and prokaryotic protein expression system of Tssk gene of tree shrews were constructed. The mRNA expressions of Tssk genes in 11 tissues/organs from tree shrews were studied. The results showed that: 1. the length of the CDS region of tree shrew Tssk gene for Tssk1B, Tssk2, Tssk3 (variant X1 / X2), Tssk4 (variant X1 / X2) and Tssk6 is 1080bp, 1077bp, 867 / 807bp, 1014 / 984bp, 822bp, respectively, encoding 359, 358, 288/268, 337/327 and 273 amino acids, respectively; the cloned sequences of Tssk genes have been submitted to GenBank with the following accession numbers: KX091161(Tssk1B), KX091162(Tssk2), KX091163(Tssk3 variant X1)/KX091164(Tssk3 variant X2), KX091165(Tssk4variant X1)/KX091166(Tssk4variant X2), KX091160(Tssk6). 2. All tree shrew Tssk proteins distribute in cytoplasm, indicating that they are hydrophilic and non-secretory proteins, with multiple phosphorylation sites of serine and/or threonine. In addition, they are all mixed proteins with similar tertiary structures sharing a highly conserved functional domain of S_TKc (Serine/Threonine protein kinases, catalytic domain). 3.The molecular phylogenetic tree of five Tssk genes in tree shrews indicates that they are neither rodent nor primate animal, but are closely related to primate animals. 4. Five members of the Tssk recombinant proteins in tree shrews were successfully obtained using the constructed prokaryotic protein expression system. 5. Five Tssk genes are specifically expressed in the testis and/or sperm of tree shrews. Additionally, small amount of Tssk1B was expressed in several tissues other than testis and sperm. Limited mRNA levels of Tssk2 and Tssk4 were expressed in the brain, while mRNA of Tssk3 or Tssk6 could only be detected in the testis and sperm. This study will provide fundamental data on reproductive biology of tree shrews, which paves a way for further studying Tssk's biological function in this novel model animal.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xue Li
- Faculty of Animal Science and Technology, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming, 650201, China
| | - Yuanji Li
- Faculty of Animal Science and Technology, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming, 650201, China
| | - Wenfei Song
- Faculty of Animal Science and Technology, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming, 650201, China; Institute of Sericultural and Apiculture, Yunnan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Mengzi, 661101, China
| | - Daohao Xie
- Faculty of Animal Science and Technology, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming, 650201, China
| | - Fangfang Zhu
- Faculty of Animal Science and Technology, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming, 650201, China
| | - Minghua Yang
- Faculty of Animal Science and Technology, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming, 650201, China.
| | - Yahui Li
- Faculty of Animal Science and Technology, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming, 650201, China.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Yang W, Wang L, Wang F, Yuan S. Roles of AMP-Activated Protein Kinase (AMPK) in Mammalian Reproduction. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:593005. [PMID: 33330475 PMCID: PMC7710906 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.593005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2020] [Accepted: 10/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Reproduction is an energy demanding function and only take place in case of sufficient available energy status in mammals. Metabolic diseases such as anorexia nervosa are clinically associated with reduced fertility. AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), as a major regulator of cellular energy homeostasis, is activated in limited energy reserves to ensure the orderly progress of various physiological activities. In recent years, mounting evidence shows that AMPK is involved in the regulation of reproductive function through multiple mechanisms. AMPK is likely to be a metabolic sensor integrating central and peripheral signals. In this review, we aim to explore the preclinical studies published in the last decade that investigate the role of AMP-activated protein kinase in the reproductive field, and its role as a target for drug therapy of reproductive system-related diseases. We also emphasized the emerging roles of AMPK in transcriptional regulation of reproduction processes and metabolisms, which are tightly related to the energy state and fertility of an organism.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Weina Yang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Lingjuan Wang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Fengli Wang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Shuiqiao Yuan
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Chiu YL, Shikina S, Yoshioka Y, Shinzato C, Chang CF. De novo transcriptome assembly from the gonads of a scleractinian coral, Euphyllia ancora: molecular mechanisms underlying scleractinian gametogenesis. BMC Genomics 2020; 21:732. [PMID: 33087060 PMCID: PMC7579821 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-020-07113-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Accepted: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sexual reproduction of scleractinians has captured the attention of researchers and the general public for decades. Although extensive ecological data has been acquired, underlying molecular and cellular mechanisms remain largely unknown. In this study, to better understand mechanisms underlying gametogenesis, we isolated ovaries and testes at different developmental phases from a gonochoric coral, Euphyllia ancora, and adopted a transcriptomic approach to reveal sex- and phase-specific gene expression profiles. In particular, we explored genes associated with oocyte development and maturation, spermiogenesis, sperm motility / capacitation, and fertilization. RESULTS 1.6 billion raw reads were obtained from 24 gonadal samples. De novo assembly of trimmed reads, and elimination of contigs derived from symbiotic dinoflagellates (Symbiodiniaceae) and other organisms yielded a reference E. ancora gonadal transcriptome of 35,802 contigs. Analysis of 4 developmental phases identified 2023 genes that were differentially expressed during oogenesis and 678 during spermatogenesis. In premature/mature ovaries, 631 genes were specifically upregulated, with 538 in mature testes. Upregulated genes included those involved in gametogenesis, gamete maturation, sperm motility / capacitation, and fertilization in other metazoans, including humans. Meanwhile, a large number of genes without homology to sequences in the SWISS-PROT database were also observed among upregulated genes in premature / mature ovaries and mature testes. CONCLUSIONS Our findings show that scleractinian gametogenesis shares many molecular characteristics with that of other metazoans, but it also possesses unique characteristics developed during cnidarian and/or scleractinian evolution. To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first to create a gonadal transcriptome assembly from any scleractinian. This study and associated datasets provide a foundation for future studies regarding gametogenesis and differences between male and female colonies from molecular and cellular perspectives. Furthermore, our transcriptome assembly will be a useful reference for future development of sex-specific and/or stage-specific germ cell markers that can be used in coral aquaculture and ecological studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Ling Chiu
- Doctoral Program in Marine Biotechnology, National Taiwan Ocean University, Keelung, 20224, Taiwan.,Doctoral Program in Marine Biotechnology, Academia Sinica, Taipei, 11529, Taiwan
| | - Shinya Shikina
- Institute of Marine Environment and Ecology, National Taiwan Ocean University, Keelung, Taiwan. .,Center of Excellence for the Oceans, National Taiwan Ocean University, 2 Pei-Ning Rd, Keelung, 20224, Taiwan.
| | - Yuki Yoshioka
- Atmosphere and Ocean Research Institute, The University of Tokyo, Chiba, 277-8564, Japan
| | - Chuya Shinzato
- Atmosphere and Ocean Research Institute, The University of Tokyo, Chiba, 277-8564, Japan.
| | - Ching-Fong Chang
- Center of Excellence for the Oceans, National Taiwan Ocean University, 2 Pei-Ning Rd, Keelung, 20224, Taiwan. .,Department of Aquaculture, National Taiwan Ocean University, Keelung, Taiwan.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Salicioni AM, Gervasi MG, Sosnik J, Tourzani DA, Nayyab S, Caraballo DA, Visconti PE. Testis-specific serine kinase protein family in male fertility and as targets for non-hormonal male contraception†. Biol Reprod 2020; 103:264-274. [PMID: 32337545 PMCID: PMC7401350 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioaa064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2020] [Revised: 04/20/2020] [Accepted: 04/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Male contraception is a very active area of research. Several hormonal agents have entered clinical trials, while potential non-hormonal targets have been brought to light more recently and are at earlier stages of development. The general strategy is to target genes along the molecular pathways of sperm production, maturation, or function, and it is predicted that these novel approaches will hopefully lead to more selective male contraceptive compounds with a decreased side effect burden. Protein kinases are known to play a major role in signaling events associated with sperm differentiation and function. In this review, we focus our analysis on the testis-specific serine kinase (TSSK) protein family. We have previously shown that members of the family of TSSKs are postmeiotically expressed in male germ cells and in mature mammalian sperm. The restricted postmeiotic expression of TSSKs as well as the importance of phosphorylation in signaling processes strongly suggests that TSSKs have an important role in germ cell differentiation and/or sperm function. This prediction has been supported by the reported sterile phenotype of the Tssk6 knockout (KO) mice and of the double Tssk1 and Tssk2 KO mice and by the male subfertile phenotype observed in a Tssk4 KO mouse model.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ana M Salicioni
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Massachusetts-Amherst, Integrated Sciences Building 427S, 661 North Pleasant Street, Amherst MA 01003, USA
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Graduate Program, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, USA
| | - María G Gervasi
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Massachusetts-Amherst, Integrated Sciences Building 427S, 661 North Pleasant Street, Amherst MA 01003, USA
| | - Julian Sosnik
- Department of Biology, University of Massachusetts, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Darya A Tourzani
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Massachusetts-Amherst, Integrated Sciences Building 427S, 661 North Pleasant Street, Amherst MA 01003, USA
- Biotechnology Training Program, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, USA
| | - Saman Nayyab
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Massachusetts-Amherst, Integrated Sciences Building 427S, 661 North Pleasant Street, Amherst MA 01003, USA
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Graduate Program, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, USA
| | - Diego A Caraballo
- IFIBYNE-CONICET, Department of Physiology, Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Pablo E Visconti
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Massachusetts-Amherst, Integrated Sciences Building 427S, 661 North Pleasant Street, Amherst MA 01003, USA
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Graduate Program, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Li B, He X, Zhao Y, Bai D, Du M, Song L, Liu Z, Yin Z, Manglai D. Transcriptome profiling of developing testes and spermatogenesis in the Mongolian horse. BMC Genet 2020; 21:46. [PMID: 32345215 PMCID: PMC7187496 DOI: 10.1186/s12863-020-00843-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2019] [Accepted: 03/13/2020] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Horse testis development and spermatogenesis are complex physiological processes. METHODS To study these processes, three immature and three mature testes were collected from the Mongolian horse, and six libraries were established using high-throughput RNA sequencing technology (RNA-Seq) to screen for genes related to testis development and spermatogenesis. RESULTS A total of 16,237 upregulated genes and 8,641 downregulated genes were detected in the testis of the Mongolian horse. These genes play important roles in different developmental stages of spermatogenesis and testicular development. Five genes with alternative splicing events that may influence spermatogenesis and development of the testis were detected. GO (Gene ontology) and KEGG (Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes) pathway analyses were performed for functional annotation of the differentially expressed genes. Pathways related to "spermatogenesis," male gamete generation," "spermatid development" and "oocyte meiosis" were significantly involved in different stages of testis development and spermatogenesis. CONCLUSION Genes, pathways and alternative splicing events were identified with inferred functions in the process of spermatogenesis in the Mongolian horse. The identification of these differentially expressed genetic signatures improves our understanding of horse testis development and spermatogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bei Li
- College of Animal Science, Equine Research Center, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, 010018, China
- lnner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Equine Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Equine Research Center, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, 010018, China
- Scientific Observing and Experimental Station of Equine Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Equine Research Center, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, 010018, China
| | - Xiaolong He
- Inner Mongolia Academy of Agricultural and Animal Husbandry Sciences, Hohhot, 010031, China
| | - Yiping Zhao
- College of Animal Science, Equine Research Center, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, 010018, China
- lnner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Equine Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Equine Research Center, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, 010018, China
- Scientific Observing and Experimental Station of Equine Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Equine Research Center, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, 010018, China
| | - Dongyi Bai
- College of Animal Science, Equine Research Center, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, 010018, China
- lnner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Equine Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Equine Research Center, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, 010018, China
- Scientific Observing and Experimental Station of Equine Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Equine Research Center, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, 010018, China
| | - Ming Du
- College of Animal Science, Equine Research Center, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, 010018, China
- lnner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Equine Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Equine Research Center, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, 010018, China
- Scientific Observing and Experimental Station of Equine Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Equine Research Center, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, 010018, China
| | - Lianjie Song
- College of Animal Science, Equine Research Center, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, 010018, China
- lnner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Equine Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Equine Research Center, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, 010018, China
- Scientific Observing and Experimental Station of Equine Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Equine Research Center, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, 010018, China
| | - Zhuang Liu
- College of Animal Science, Equine Research Center, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, 010018, China
- lnner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Equine Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Equine Research Center, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, 010018, China
- Scientific Observing and Experimental Station of Equine Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Equine Research Center, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, 010018, China
| | - Zhenchen Yin
- College of Animal Science, Equine Research Center, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, 010018, China
- lnner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Equine Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Equine Research Center, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, 010018, China
- Scientific Observing and Experimental Station of Equine Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Equine Research Center, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, 010018, China
| | - Dugarjaviin Manglai
- College of Animal Science, Equine Research Center, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, 010018, China.
- lnner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Equine Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Equine Research Center, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, 010018, China.
- Scientific Observing and Experimental Station of Equine Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Equine Research Center, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, 010018, China.
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Genes dysregulated in the blood of people with Williams syndrome are enriched in protein-coding genes positively selected in humans. Eur J Med Genet 2020; 63:103828. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmg.2019.103828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2019] [Revised: 11/09/2019] [Accepted: 12/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
|
31
|
Crapster JA, Rack PG, Hellmann ZJ, Le AD, Adams CM, Leib RD, Elias JE, Perrino J, Behr B, Li Y, Lin J, Zeng H, Chen JK. HIPK4 is essential for murine spermiogenesis. eLife 2020; 9:e50209. [PMID: 32163033 PMCID: PMC7067585 DOI: 10.7554/elife.50209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2019] [Accepted: 02/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Mammalian spermiogenesis is a remarkable cellular transformation, during which round spermatids elongate into chromatin-condensed spermatozoa. The signaling pathways that coordinate this process are not well understood, and we demonstrate here that homeodomain-interacting protein kinase 4 (HIPK4) is essential for spermiogenesis and male fertility in mice. HIPK4 is predominantly expressed in round and early elongating spermatids, and Hipk4 knockout males are sterile, exhibiting phenotypes consistent with oligoasthenoteratozoospermia. Hipk4 mutant sperm have reduced oocyte binding and are incompetent for in vitro fertilization, but they can still produce viable offspring via intracytoplasmic sperm injection. Optical and electron microscopy of HIPK4-null male germ cells reveals defects in the filamentous actin (F-actin)-scaffolded acroplaxome during spermatid elongation and abnormal head morphologies in mature spermatozoa. We further observe that HIPK4 overexpression induces branched F-actin structures in cultured fibroblasts and that HIPK4 deficiency alters the subcellular distribution of an F-actin capping protein in the testis, supporting a role for this kinase in cytoskeleton remodeling. Our findings establish HIPK4 as an essential regulator of sperm head shaping and potential target for male contraception.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J Aaron Crapster
- Department of Chemical and Systems Biology, Stanford University School of MedicineStanfordUnited States
| | - Paul G Rack
- Department of Chemical and Systems Biology, Stanford University School of MedicineStanfordUnited States
| | - Zane J Hellmann
- Department of Chemical and Systems Biology, Stanford University School of MedicineStanfordUnited States
| | - Austen D Le
- Department of Chemical and Systems Biology, Stanford University School of MedicineStanfordUnited States
| | - Christopher M Adams
- Stanford University Mass Spectrometry, Stanford UniversityStanfordUnited States
| | - Ryan D Leib
- Stanford University Mass Spectrometry, Stanford UniversityStanfordUnited States
| | - Joshua E Elias
- Chan Zuckerberg Biohub, Stanford UniversityStanfordUnited States
| | - John Perrino
- Cell Science Imaging Facility, Stanford University School of MedicineStanfordUnited States
| | - Barry Behr
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Stanford University School of MedicineStanfordUnited States
| | - Yanfeng Li
- Transgenic, Knockout, and Tumor Model Center, Stanford University School of MedicineStanfordUnited States
| | - Jennifer Lin
- Transgenic, Knockout, and Tumor Model Center, Stanford University School of MedicineStanfordUnited States
| | - Hong Zeng
- Transgenic, Knockout, and Tumor Model Center, Stanford University School of MedicineStanfordUnited States
| | - James K Chen
- Department of Chemical and Systems Biology, Stanford University School of MedicineStanfordUnited States
- Department of Developmental Biology, Stanford University School of MedicineStanfordUnited States
- Department of Chemistry, Stanford UniversityStanfordUnited States
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Kim EJ, Kim SJ, Park CJ, Nam YK. Characterization of testis-specific serine/threonine kinase 1-like (TSSK1-like) gene and expression patterns in diploid and triploid Pacific abalone (Haliotis discus hannai; Gastropoda; Mollusca) males. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0226022. [PMID: 31825975 PMCID: PMC6905558 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0226022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2019] [Accepted: 11/17/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Testis-specific serine/threonine kinase 1-like (TSSK1-like), which plays important roles in late-phase spermatogenesis and male fertility, was characterized in Pacific abalone Haliotis discus hannai, an important commercial marine gastropod. Further, its expression patterns were assessed in diploid and induced triploid males showing differential degrees of testis maturation. Abalone TSSK1-like shared conserved structural features with mammalian TSSK1s and other potential metazoan orthologs, especially regarding the catalytic STKc domain. Phylogenetically, abalone TSSK1-like displayed a genetic affiliation with its molluscan TSSK1-like orthologs and human TSSK1. Additionally, abalone TSSK1-like gene showed a tetrapartite exon-intron organization, unlike the intronless structure of most amniotic tetrapodian TSSK1s. Molecular phylogenetic analysis in the metazoan lineage suggested a possible revision in the origin of the earliest ancestral TSSK1. Further, abalone TSSK1-like showed testis-predominant expression, which was significantly influenced by both age and seasonal reproductive cycles. Comparative expression analyses between diploid and triploid abalone males suggested that robust TSSK1-like expression occurred primarily at the post-meiotic stage. Additionally, RT-PCR assay indicates that mature abalone sperms retain TSSK1-like transcripts after release. Taken together, this study provides useful insights for further studies to assess male reproduction and sterility and/or partial fertility of induced male triploidy in abalone species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eun Jeong Kim
- Department of Marine Bio-Materials and Aquaculture, Pukyong National University, Busan, Republic of Korea
| | - So Jeong Kim
- Department of Marine Bio-Materials and Aquaculture, Pukyong National University, Busan, Republic of Korea
| | - Choul Ji Park
- Genetics and Breeding Research Center, National Institute of Fisheries Science, Geoje, Republic of Korea
| | - Yoon Kwon Nam
- Department of Marine Bio-Materials and Aquaculture, Pukyong National University, Busan, Republic of Korea
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Long JE, Lee MS, Blithe DL. Male Contraceptive Development: Update on Novel Hormonal and Nonhormonal Methods. Clin Chem 2019; 65:153-160. [PMID: 30602479 DOI: 10.1373/clinchem.2018.295089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2018] [Accepted: 09/20/2018] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Development of new methods of male contraception would address an unmet need for men to control their fertility and could increase contraceptive options for women. Pharmaceutical research and development for male contraception was active in the 1990s but has been virtually abandoned. The Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) has supported a contraceptive development program since 1969 and supports the majority of hormonal male contraceptive development. Nonhormonal methods are also in development but are at earlier stages. CONTENT Several hormonal male contraceptive agents have entered clinical trials. Single-agent products being evaluated include dimethandrolone undecanoate, 11β-methyl-nortestosterone dodecyl carbonate, and 7α-methyl-19-nortestosterone. A contraceptive efficacy trial of Nestorone® gel and testosterone gel in a single application will begin in 2018. Potential nonhormonal methods are at preclinical stages of development. Many nonhormonal male contraceptive targets that affect either sperm production or sperm function have been identified. Targeted pathways include the retinoic acid pathway, bromodomain and extraterminal proteins, and pathways for Sertoli cell-germ cell adhesion or sperm motility. Druggable targets include CatSper, the sperm Na+/K+-exchanger, TSSK, HIPK4, EPPIN, and ADAMs family proteins. Development of a procedure to reversibly block the vas deferens (initially developed in India in the 1980s) is undergoing early stage research in the US under the trade name Vasalgel™. SUMMARY NICHD has supported the development of reversible male contraceptive agents. Other organizations such as the World Health Organization and the Population Council are pursuing male contraceptive development, but industry involvement remains dormant.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jill E Long
- Contraceptive Development Program; Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD.
| | - Min S Lee
- Contraceptive Development Program; Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
| | - Diana L Blithe
- Contraceptive Development Program; Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Ito C, Akutsu H, Yao R, Yoshida K, Yamatoya K, Mutoh T, Makino T, Aoyama K, Ishikawa H, Kunimoto K, Tsukita S, Noda T, Kikkawa M, Toshimori K. Odf2 haploinsufficiency causes a new type of decapitated and decaudated spermatozoa, Odf2-DDS, in mice. Sci Rep 2019; 9:14249. [PMID: 31582806 PMCID: PMC6776547 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-50516-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2019] [Accepted: 09/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Outer dense fibre 2 (Odf2 or ODF2) is a cytoskeletal protein required for flagella (tail)-beating and stability to transport sperm cells from testes to the eggs. There are infertile males, including human patients, who have a high percentage of decapitated and decaudated spermatozoa (DDS), whose semen contains abnormal spermatozoa with tailless heads and headless tails due to head-neck separation. DDS is untreatable in reproductive medicine. We report for the first time a new type of Odf2-DDS in heterozygous mutant Odf2+/- mice. Odf2+/- males were infertile due to haploinsufficiency caused by heterozygous deletion of the Odf2 gene, encoding the Odf2 proteins. Odf2 haploinsufficiency induced sperm neck-midpiece separation, a new type of head-tail separation, leading to the generation of headneck sperm cells or headnecks composed of heads with necks and neckless tails composed of only the main parts of tails. The headnecks were immotile but alive and capable of producing offspring by intracytoplasmic headneck sperm injection (ICSI). The neckless tails were motile and could induce capacitation but had no significant forward motility. Further studies are necessary to show that ICSI in humans, using headneck sperm cells, is viable and could be an alternative for infertile patients suffering from Odf2-DDS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chizuru Ito
- Department of Functional Anatomy, Reproductive Biology and Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, 260-8670, Japan.
| | - Hidenori Akutsu
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, National Research Institute for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, 157-8535, Japan
| | - Ryoji Yao
- Department of Cell Biology, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research (JFCR) Cancer Institute, Tokyo, 135-8550, Japan
| | - Keiichi Yoshida
- Department of Functional Anatomy, Reproductive Biology and Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, 260-8670, Japan
- Next-generation Development Center for Cancer Treatment, Osaka International Cancer Institute, Osaka, 541-8567, Japan
| | - Kenji Yamatoya
- Department of Functional Anatomy, Reproductive Biology and Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, 260-8670, Japan
- Institute for Environmental & Gender-specific Medicine, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba, 279-0021, Japan
| | - Tohru Mutoh
- Department of Functional Anatomy, Reproductive Biology and Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, 260-8670, Japan
| | - Tsukasa Makino
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan
| | - Kazuhiro Aoyama
- Materials and Structural Analysis (ex FEI), Thermo Ficher Scientific, Shinagawa Seaside West Tower 1F, 4-12-2 HigashiSinagawa, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo, 140-0002, Japan
- Research Center for Ultra-High Voltage Electron Microscopy, Osaka University, 7-1 Mihogaoka, Ibaraki, Osaka, 567-0047, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Ishikawa
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of California San Francisco 600 16th St., San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA
| | - Koshi Kunimoto
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, 300 Pasteur Drive, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Sachiko Tsukita
- Graduate School of Frontier Biosciences and Medicine, Osaka University, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Tetsuo Noda
- Director's Room, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research (JFCR) Cancer Institute, Tokyo, 135-8550, Japan
| | - Masahide Kikkawa
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan
| | - Kiyotaka Toshimori
- Department of Functional Anatomy, Reproductive Biology and Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, 260-8670, Japan.
- Future Medicine Research Center, Chiba University, Chiba, 260-8670, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Sohail S, Tariq K, Zheng W, Ali MW, Peng W, Raza MF, Zhang H. RNAi-Mediated Knockdown of Tssk1 and Tektin1 Genes Impair Male Fertility in Bactrocera dorsalis. INSECTS 2019; 10:insects10060164. [PMID: 31185651 PMCID: PMC6627857 DOI: 10.3390/insects10060164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2019] [Revised: 06/03/2019] [Accepted: 06/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The genetic-based sterile insect technique (SIT) is an effective and environmentally safe strategy to diminish populations of agricultural and horticultural insect pests. Functional characterization of genes related to male fertility can enhance the genetic-based SIT. Tssk1 has been involved to control male fertility in both mammals and insects. Moreover, Tektin1 has also been revealed to influence male fertility in both human and mammals. These findings suggested that Tssk1 and Tektin1 identified from Bactrocera dorsalis could be required for male fertility in B. dorsalis. In this study, expression profiles of these two genes were studied at different developmental stages and in various tissues of adult males. Remarkably, it was found that Tssk1 and Tektin1 were highly expressed in the testis of mature adult males of B. dorsalis. Furthermore, Tssk1 and Tektin1 genes were downregulated by using the RNA interference (RNAi) method. Fertility assays including egg laying, hatching, and spermatozoa count were also performed to investigate male fertility of B. dorsalis. Results showed that knockdown of Tssk1 and Tektin1 caused male sterility up to 58.99% and 64.49%, respectively. As expected, the total numbers of spermatozoa were also significantly reduced by 65.83% and 73.9%, respectively. These results suggested that male sterility was happened wing to the low number of spermatozoa. In conclusion, we demonstrate that Tssk1 and Tektin1 are the novel agents that could be used to enhance the genetic-based SIT, or their double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) can be used as biopesticides to control the population of B. dorsalis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Summar Sohail
- Key Laboratory of Horticultural Plant Biology (MOE), State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, China-Australia Joint Research Centre for Horticultural and Urban Pests, Institute of Urban and Horticultural Entomology, College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, Hubei, China.
| | - Kaleem Tariq
- Department of Agriculture, Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa 23200, Pakistan.
| | - Weiwei Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Horticultural Plant Biology (MOE), State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, China-Australia Joint Research Centre for Horticultural and Urban Pests, Institute of Urban and Horticultural Entomology, College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, Hubei, China.
| | - Muhammad Waqar Ali
- Key Laboratory of Horticultural Plant Biology (MOE), State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, China-Australia Joint Research Centre for Horticultural and Urban Pests, Institute of Urban and Horticultural Entomology, College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, Hubei, China.
| | - Wei Peng
- Key Laboratory of Horticultural Plant Biology (MOE), State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, China-Australia Joint Research Centre for Horticultural and Urban Pests, Institute of Urban and Horticultural Entomology, College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, Hubei, China.
| | - Muhammad Fahim Raza
- Key Laboratory of Horticultural Plant Biology (MOE), State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, China-Australia Joint Research Centre for Horticultural and Urban Pests, Institute of Urban and Horticultural Entomology, College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, Hubei, China.
| | - Hongyu Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Horticultural Plant Biology (MOE), State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, China-Australia Joint Research Centre for Horticultural and Urban Pests, Institute of Urban and Horticultural Entomology, College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, Hubei, China.
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Salardaine Q, Marquet V, Bourthoumieu S, Dauriat B, Dobrescu A, Yardin C. Unexpected phenotype in a patient with two chromosomal deletions involving 6pter and 22q11. Morphologie 2019; 103:116-121. [PMID: 30885456 DOI: 10.1016/j.morpho.2019.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2018] [Revised: 02/13/2019] [Accepted: 02/20/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
The 6p terminal deletions are rare and usually early diagnosed because of their association with eye and cranio-facial anomalies, particularly as part of Axenfeld-Rieger syndrome in relation with the haploinsufficiency of FOXC1 gene. Deletions in the 22q11 region are frequent, highly correlated with DiGeorge syndrome also named CATCH22, and may be associated with many clinical features of various severities. We report a 31-year-old man with an unbalanced 45,XY,der(6)t(6;22)(p25;q11.2),-22 karyotype leading to monosomies in both 6p25 and 22q11 regions, confirmed by FISH and array-CGH. The length of the deletions was respectively 770 Kb for 6pter and 2.9 Mb for 22q11. This karyotype was discovered at adult age following problems of fertility. The chromosomal formula was unexpected, regarding the patient's medical history and clinical features. This case makes a great example of the difficulties to correlate genotype and phenotype, and furthermore demonstrates the complexity of genetic counselling even in a case with two different chromosomal unbalances.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Q Salardaine
- Department of cytogenetics and clinical genetics, Limoges University Hospital, 87042 Limoges cedex, France
| | - V Marquet
- Department of cytogenetics and clinical genetics, Limoges University Hospital, 87042 Limoges cedex, France
| | - S Bourthoumieu
- Department of cytogenetics and clinical genetics, Limoges University Hospital, 87042 Limoges cedex, France
| | - B Dauriat
- Department of cytogenetics and clinical genetics, Limoges University Hospital, 87042 Limoges cedex, France
| | - A Dobrescu
- Department of cytogenetics and clinical genetics, Limoges University Hospital, 87042 Limoges cedex, France
| | - C Yardin
- Department of cytogenetics and clinical genetics, Limoges University Hospital, 87042 Limoges cedex, France; University Limoges, CNRS, XLIM, UMR 7252, 87000 Limoges, France.
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Kadiyska T, Tourtourikov I, Petrov A, Chavoushian A, Antalavicheva M, König EM, Klopocki E, Vessela N, Stanislavov R. Interstitial Deletion of 5q22.2q23.1 Including APC and TSSK1B in a Patient with Adenomatous Polyposis and Asthenoteratozoospermia. Mol Syndromol 2019; 9:235-240. [PMID: 30733657 DOI: 10.1159/000492516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/17/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Interstitial 5q22 deletions are relatively rare and usually represented by severe clinical features such as developmental delay and growth retardation. Here, we report a 23-year-old male patient, referred to our laboratory for genetic confirmation of possible familial adenomatous polyposis. MLPA and the subsequent array CGH identified an approximately 8-Mb-sized deletion in the 5q22.2q23.1 locus. Further analysis of the deleted region and the genes within suggested a possible role for the TSSK1B (testis-specific serine/threonine kinase 1) gene in the patient's reproductive capacity. Semen analysis confirmed that the patient's reproductive capability was impaired, and that he suffered from asthenoteratozoospermia. Analysis of the azoospermia factor region on the Y chromosome revealed no microdeletions. Further sequencing tests could not find an alternative explanation for the patient's infertility. This case demonstrates a possible role of TSSK1B in male reproduction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tanya Kadiyska
- Genetic Medico-Diagnostic Laboratory Genica, City Clinic Cancer Center, Sofia Medical University, Sofia, Bulgaria.,Department of Medical Chemistry and Biochemistry, Sofia Medical University, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Ivan Tourtourikov
- Genetic Medico-Diagnostic Laboratory Genica, City Clinic Cancer Center, Sofia Medical University, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Asen Petrov
- Department of Gastroenterology, City Clinic Cancer Center, Sofia Medical University, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Ani Chavoushian
- Department of Gastroenterology, City Clinic Cancer Center, Sofia Medical University, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Miglena Antalavicheva
- Department of Gastroenterology, City Clinic Cancer Center, Sofia Medical University, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Eva-Maria König
- Institute of Human Genetics, Biozentrum, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Eva Klopocki
- Institute of Human Genetics, Biozentrum, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Nikolova Vessela
- Genetic Medico-Diagnostic Laboratory Genica, City Clinic Cancer Center, Sofia Medical University, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Romil Stanislavov
- Genetic Medico-Diagnostic Laboratory Genica, City Clinic Cancer Center, Sofia Medical University, Sofia, Bulgaria
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
López-Galindo L, Juárez OE, Larios-Soriano E, Del Vecchio G, Ventura-López C, Lago-Lestón A, Galindo-Sánchez C. Transcriptomic Analysis Reveals Insights on Male Infertility in Octopus maya Under Chronic Thermal Stress. Front Physiol 2019; 9:1920. [PMID: 30697164 PMCID: PMC6341066 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2018.01920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2018] [Accepted: 12/20/2018] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Octopus maya endemic to the Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico, is an ectotherm organism particularly temperature-sensitive. Studies in O. maya females show that temperatures above 27°C reduce the number of eggs per spawn, fertilization rate and the viability of embryos. High temperatures also reduce the male reproductive performance and success. However, the molecular mechanisms are still unknown. The transcriptomic profiles of testes from thermally stressed (30°C) and not stressed (24°C) adult male octopuses were compared, before and after mating to understand the molecular bases involved in the low reproductive performance at high temperature. The testis paired-end cDNA libraries were sequenced using the Illumina MiSeq platform. Then, the transcriptome was assembled de novo using Trinity software. A total of 53,214,611 high-quality paired reads were used to reconstruct 85,249 transcripts and 77,661 unigenes with an N50 of 889 bp length. Later, 13,154 transcripts were annotated implementing Blastx searches in the UniProt database. Differential expression analysis revealed 1,881 transcripts with significant difference among treatments. Functional annotation and pathway mapping of differential expressed transcripts revealed significant enrichment for biological processes involved in spermatogenesis, gamete generation, germ cell development, spermatid development and differentiation, response to stress, inflammatory response and apoptosis. Remarkably, the transcripts encoding genes such as ZMYND15, KLHL10, TDRD1, TSSK2 and DNAJB13, which are linked to male infertility in other species, were differentially expressed among the treatments. The expression levels of these key genes, involved in sperm motility and spermatogenesis were validated by quantitative real-time PCR. The results suggest that the reduction in male fertility at high temperature can be related to alterations in spermatozoa development and motility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura López-Galindo
- Laboratorio de Genómica Funcional, Departamento de Biotecnología Marina, Centro de Investigación Científica y de Educación Superior de Ensenada, Ensenada, Mexico
| | - Oscar E Juárez
- Laboratorio de Genómica Funcional, Departamento de Biotecnología Marina, Centro de Investigación Científica y de Educación Superior de Ensenada, Ensenada, Mexico
| | - Ernesto Larios-Soriano
- Laboratorio de Fisiología Integrativa de Organismos Marinos, Departamento de Biotecnología Marina, Centro de Investigación Científica y de Educación Superior de Ensenada, Ensenada, Mexico
| | - Giulia Del Vecchio
- Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Claudia Ventura-López
- Laboratorio de Genómica Funcional, Departamento de Biotecnología Marina, Centro de Investigación Científica y de Educación Superior de Ensenada, Ensenada, Mexico
| | - Asunción Lago-Lestón
- Departamento de Innovación Biomédica, Centro de Investigación Científica y de Educación Superior de Ensenada, Ensenada, Mexico
| | - Clara Galindo-Sánchez
- Laboratorio de Genómica Funcional, Departamento de Biotecnología Marina, Centro de Investigación Científica y de Educación Superior de Ensenada, Ensenada, Mexico
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Meibers HE, Finch G, Gregg RT, Glenn S, Assani KD, Jennings EC, Davies B, Rosendale AJ, Holmes CJ, Gantz JD, Spacht DE, Lee RE, Denlinger DL, Weirauch MT, Benoit JB. Sex- and developmental-specific transcriptomic analyses of the Antarctic mite, Alaskozetes antarcticus, reveal transcriptional shifts underlying oribatid mite reproduction. Polar Biol 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/s00300-018-2427-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
|
40
|
Martin-Hidalgo D, Hurtado de Llera A, Calle-Guisado V, Gonzalez-Fernandez L, Garcia-Marin L, Bragado MJ. AMPK Function in Mammalian Spermatozoa. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19113293. [PMID: 30360525 PMCID: PMC6275045 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19113293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2018] [Revised: 10/16/2018] [Accepted: 10/20/2018] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
AMP-activated protein kinase AMPK regulates cellular energy by controlling metabolism through the inhibition of anabolic pathways and the simultaneous stimulation of catabolic pathways. Given its central regulator role in cell metabolism, AMPK activity and its regulation have been the focus of relevant investigations, although only a few studies have focused on the AMPK function in the control of spermatozoa's ability to fertilize. This review summarizes the known cellular roles of AMPK that have been identified in mammalian spermatozoa. The involvement of AMPK activity is described in terms of the main physiological functions of mature spermatozoa, particularly in the regulation of suitable sperm motility adapted to the fluctuating extracellular medium, maintenance of the integrity of sperm membranes, and the mitochondrial membrane potential. In addition, the intracellular signaling pathways leading to AMPK activation in mammalian spermatozoa are reviewed. We also discuss the role of AMPK in assisted reproduction techniques, particularly during semen cryopreservation and preservation (at 17 °C). Finally, we reinforce the idea of AMPK as a key signaling kinase in spermatozoa that acts as an essential linker/bridge between metabolism energy and sperm's ability to fertilize.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David Martin-Hidalgo
- Research Group of Intracellular Signaling and Technology of Reproduction (SINTREP), Institute of Biotechnology in Agriculture and Livestock (INBIO G+C), University of Extremadura, 10003 Cáceres, Spain.
- Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine (UMIB), Laboratory of Cell Biology, Department of Microscopy, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, 40050-313 Porto, Portugal.
| | - Ana Hurtado de Llera
- Research Group of Intracellular Signaling and Technology of Reproduction (SINTREP), Institute of Biotechnology in Agriculture and Livestock (INBIO G+C), University of Extremadura, 10003 Cáceres, Spain.
- Hormones and Metabolism Research Group, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Beira Interior, 6200-506 Covilhã, Portugal.
| | - Violeta Calle-Guisado
- Research Group of Intracellular Signaling and Technology of Reproduction (SINTREP), Institute of Biotechnology in Agriculture and Livestock (INBIO G+C), University of Extremadura, 10003 Cáceres, Spain.
| | - Lauro Gonzalez-Fernandez
- Research Group of Intracellular Signaling and Technology of Reproduction (SINTREP), Institute of Biotechnology in Agriculture and Livestock (INBIO G+C), University of Extremadura, 10003 Cáceres, Spain.
| | - Luis Garcia-Marin
- Research Group of Intracellular Signaling and Technology of Reproduction (SINTREP), Institute of Biotechnology in Agriculture and Livestock (INBIO G+C), University of Extremadura, 10003 Cáceres, Spain.
| | - M Julia Bragado
- Research Group of Intracellular Signaling and Technology of Reproduction (SINTREP), Institute of Biotechnology in Agriculture and Livestock (INBIO G+C), University of Extremadura, 10003 Cáceres, Spain.
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
RNA Interference-Mediated Knockdown of Male Fertility Genes in the Queensland Fruit Fly Bactrocera tryoni (Diptera: Tephritidae). INSECTS 2018; 9:insects9030096. [PMID: 30103378 PMCID: PMC6163526 DOI: 10.3390/insects9030096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2018] [Revised: 07/31/2018] [Accepted: 08/08/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The Queensland fruit fly, Bactrocera tryoni, is Australia’s most important horticultural pest. The Sterile Insect Technique (SIT) has been used to control this species for decades, using radiation to sterilize males before field-release. This method of sterilization can potentially reduce the insects’ abilities to compete for mates. In this study, RNA interference (RNAi) techniques were examined for their potential to sterilize male B. tryoni without adversely affecting mating competitiveness. B. tryoni adults were injected or fed double-stranded RNAs (dsRNAs) targeting spermatogenesis genes (tssk1, topi and trxt); quantitative reverse-transcriptase PCR analyses confirmed that transcript levels were reduced 60–80% for all three genes following injections. Feeding produced a significant gene knockdown for tssk1 and trxt after three days, but interestingly, two genes (trxt and topi) produced an excess of transcripts after 10 days of feeding. Despite these fluctuations in transcript levels, all three dsRNAs impacted the fecundity of treated males, with tssk1- and topi-dsRNA-treated males producing 75% fewer viable offspring than the negative controls. Mating competition assays demonstrated that dsRNA-treated males can actively compete with untreated males. These findings suggest that RNAi technology could serve as an alternative to radiation as a means of sterilizing these insects in an SIT program.
Collapse
|
42
|
Calle-Guisado V, de Llera AH, Martin-Hidalgo D, Mijares J, Gil MC, Alvarez IS, Bragado MJ, Garcia-Marin LJ. AMP-activated kinase in human spermatozoa: identification, intracellular localization, and key function in the regulation of sperm motility. Asian J Androl 2018; 19:707-714. [PMID: 27678462 PMCID: PMC5676432 DOI: 10.4103/1008-682x.185848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AMP-activated kinase (AMPK), a protein that regulates energy balance and metabolism, has recently been identified in boar spermatozoa where regulates key functional sperm processes essential for fertilization. This work's aims are AMPK identification, intracellular localization, and their role in human spermatozoa function. Semen was obtained from healthy human donors. Sperm AMPK and phospho-Thr172-AMPK were analyzed by Western blotting and indirect immunofluorescence. High- and low-quality sperm populations were separated by a 40%–80% density gradient. Human spermatozoa motility was evaluated by an Integrated Semen Analysis System (ISAS) in the presence or absence of the AMPK inhibitor compound C (CC). AMPK is localized along the human spermatozoa, at the entire acrosome, midpiece and tail with variable intensity, whereas its active form, phospho-Thr172-AMPK, shows a prominent staining at the acrosome and sperm tail with a weaker staining in the midpiece and the postacrosomal region. Interestingly, spermatozoa bearing an excess residual cytoplasm show strong AMPK staining in this subcellular compartment. Both AMPK and phospho-Thr172-AMPK human spermatozoa contents exhibit important individual variations. Moreover, active AMPK is predominant in the high motility sperm population, where shows a stronger intensity compared with the low motility sperm population. Inhibition of AMPK activity in human spermatozoa by CC treatment leads to a significant reduction in any sperm motility parameter analyzed: percent of motile sperm, sperm velocities, progressivity, and other motility coefficients. This work identifies and points out AMPK as a new molecular mechanism involved in human spermatozoa motility. Further AMPK implications in the clinical efficiency of assisted reproduction and in other reproductive areas need to be studied.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Violeta Calle-Guisado
- Research Group of Intracellular Signalling and Technology of Reproduction (SINTREP), School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Extremadura, Caceres, Spain
| | - Ana Hurtado de Llera
- Research Group of Intracellular Signalling and Technology of Reproduction (SINTREP), School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Extremadura, Caceres, Spain
| | - David Martin-Hidalgo
- Research Group of Intracellular Signalling and Technology of Reproduction (SINTREP), School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Extremadura, Caceres, Spain
| | - Jose Mijares
- Assisted Reproduction Unit at the Minimally Invasive Surgery Center Jesús Usón (CCMIJU) Caceres, Spain.,Norba Clinic, Caceres, Spain
| | - Maria C Gil
- Research Group of Intracellular Signalling and Technology of Reproduction (SINTREP), School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Extremadura, Caceres, Spain
| | - Ignacio S Alvarez
- Research Group of Reproduction and Embryo Development (REDES), University of Extremadura, Badajoz, Spain.,Extremadura Institute of Assisted Reproduction (IERA), Badajoz, Spain
| | - Maria J Bragado
- Research Group of Intracellular Signalling and Technology of Reproduction (SINTREP), School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Extremadura, Caceres, Spain
| | - Luis J Garcia-Marin
- Research Group of Intracellular Signalling and Technology of Reproduction (SINTREP), School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Extremadura, Caceres, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Luu BE, Wijenayake S, Malik AI, Storey KB. The regulation of heat shock proteins in response to dehydration in Xenopus laevis. Cell Stress Chaperones 2018; 23:45-53. [PMID: 28676984 PMCID: PMC5741580 DOI: 10.1007/s12192-017-0822-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2017] [Revised: 06/12/2017] [Accepted: 06/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
African clawed frogs (Xenopus laevis) endure bouts of severe drought in their natural habitats and survive the loss of approximately 30% of total body water due to dehydration. To investigate molecular mechanisms employed by X. laevis during periods of dehydration, the heat shock protein response, a vital component of the cytoprotective stress response, was characterized. Using western immunoblotting and multiplex technology, the protein levels of HSP27, HSP40, HSP60, HSP70, HSC70, and HSP90 were quantified in the liver, skeletal muscle, kidney, lung, and testes from control frogs and those that underwent medium or high dehydration (~16 or ~30% loss of total body water). Dehydration increased HSP27 (1.45-1.65-fold) in the kidneys and lungs, and HSP40 (1.39-2.50-fold) in the liver, testes, and skeletal muscle. HSP60 decreased in response to dehydration (0.43-0.64 of control) in the kidneys and lungs. HSP70 increased in the liver, lungs, and testes (1.39-1.70-fold) during dehydration, but had a dynamic response in the kidneys (levels increased 1.57-fold with medium dehydration, but decreased to 0.56 of control during high dehydration). HSC70 increased in the liver and kidneys (1.20-1.36-fold), but decreased in skeletal muscle (0.27-0.55 of control) during dehydration. Lastly, HSP90 was reduced in the kidney, lung, and skeletal muscle (0.39-0.69 of control) in response to dehydration, but rose in the testes (1.30-fold). Overall, the results suggest a dynamic tissue-specific heat shock protein response to whole body dehydration in X. laevis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bryan E Luu
- Institute of Biochemistry and Department of Biology, Carleton University, 1125 Colonel By Drive, Ottawa, ON, K1S 5B6, Canada
| | - Sanoji Wijenayake
- Institute of Biochemistry and Department of Biology, Carleton University, 1125 Colonel By Drive, Ottawa, ON, K1S 5B6, Canada
| | - Amal I Malik
- Institute of Biochemistry and Department of Biology, Carleton University, 1125 Colonel By Drive, Ottawa, ON, K1S 5B6, Canada
| | - Kenneth B Storey
- Institute of Biochemistry and Department of Biology, Carleton University, 1125 Colonel By Drive, Ottawa, ON, K1S 5B6, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Hawkinson JE, Sinville R, Mudaliar D, Shetty J, Ward T, Herr JC, Georg GI. Potent Pyrimidine and Pyrrolopyrimidine Inhibitors of Testis-Specific Serine/Threonine Kinase 2 (TSSK2). ChemMedChem 2017; 12:1857-1865. [PMID: 28952188 PMCID: PMC5962959 DOI: 10.1002/cmdc.201700503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2017] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Testis-specific serine/threonine kinase 2 (TSSK2) is an important target for reversible male contraception. A high-throughput screen of ≈17 000 compounds using a mobility shift assay identified two potent series of inhibitors having a pyrrolopyrimidine or pyrimidine core. The pyrrolopyrimidine 10 (IC50 22 nm; GSK2163632A) and the pyrimidine 17 (IC50 31 nm; ALK inhibitor 1) are the most potent TSSK2 inhibitors in these series, which contain the first sub-100 nanomolar inhibitors of any TSSK isoform reported, except for the broad kinase inhibitor staurosporine. The novel, potent pyrimidine TSSK2 inhibitor compound 19 (IC50 66 nm; 2-[[5-chloro-2-[2-methoxy-4-(1-methylpiperidin-4-yl)anilino]pyrimidin-4-yl]amino]-N-methylbenzenesulfonamide) lacks the potential for metabolic activation. Compound 19 had a potency rank order of TSSK1>TSSK2>TSSK3>TSSK6, indicating that potent dual inhibitors of TSSK1/2 can be identified, which may be required for a complete contraceptive effect. The future availability of a TSSK2 crystal structure will facilitate structure-based discovery of selective TSSK inhibitors from these pyrrolopyrimidine and pyrimidine scaffolds.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jon E Hawkinson
- Institute for Therapeutics Discovery and Development, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55414, USA
| | - Rondedrick Sinville
- Institute for Therapeutics Discovery and Development, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55414, USA
| | - Deepti Mudaliar
- Institute for Therapeutics Discovery and Development, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55414, USA
| | - Jagathpala Shetty
- Department of Cell Biology, Center for Research in Contraceptive and Reproductive Health, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, 22908, USA
| | - Timothy Ward
- Institute for Therapeutics Discovery and Development, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55414, USA
| | - John C Herr
- Department of Cell Biology, Center for Research in Contraceptive and Reproductive Health, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, 22908, USA
| | - Gunda I Georg
- Institute for Therapeutics Discovery and Development, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55414, USA
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Jha KN, Tripurani SK, Johnson GR. TSSK6 is required for γH2AX formation and the histone-to-protamine transition during spermiogenesis. J Cell Sci 2017; 130:1835-1844. [PMID: 28389581 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.202721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2017] [Accepted: 04/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Spermiogenesis includes transcriptional silencing, chromatin condensation and extensive morphological changes as spermatids transform into sperm. Chromatin condensation involves histone hyperacetylation, transitory DNA breaks, histone H2AX (also known as H2AFX) phosphorylation at Ser139 (γH2AX), and replacement of histones by protamines. Previously, we have reported that the spermatid protein kinase TSSK6 is essential for fertility in mice, but its specific role in spermiogenesis is unknown. Here, we show that TSSK6 expression is spatiotemporally coincident with γH2AX formation in the nuclei of developing mouse spermatids. RNA-sequencing analysis demonstrates that genetic ablation of Tssk6 does not impact gene expression or silencing in spermatids. However, loss of TSSK6 blocks γH2AX formation, even though the timing and level of the transient DNA breaks is unaltered. Further, Tssk6-knockout sperm contained increased levels of histones H3 and H4, and protamine 2 precursor and intermediate(s) indicative of a defective histone-to-protamine transition. These results demonstrate that TSSK6 is required for γH2AX formation during spermiogenesis, and also link γH2AX to the histone-to-protamine transition and male fertility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kula N Jha
- Division of Biotechnology Review and Research IV, Office of Biotechnology Products, Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, MD 20993, USA
| | - Swamy K Tripurani
- Division of Biotechnology Review and Research IV, Office of Biotechnology Products, Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, MD 20993, USA
| | - Gibbes R Johnson
- Division of Biotechnology Review and Research IV, Office of Biotechnology Products, Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, MD 20993, USA
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Song S, Yu H, Li Q. Genome survey and characterization of reproduction-related genes in the Pacific oyster. INVERTEBR REPROD DEV 2017. [DOI: 10.1080/07924259.2017.1287780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Shanshan Song
- Key Laboratory of Mariculture (Ocean University of China), Ministry of Education, Qingdao, China
| | - Hong Yu
- Key Laboratory of Mariculture (Ocean University of China), Ministry of Education, Qingdao, China
| | - Qi Li
- Key Laboratory of Mariculture (Ocean University of China), Ministry of Education, Qingdao, China
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Cai X, Yu S, Mipam T, Yang F, Zhao W, Liu W, Cao S, Shen L, Zhao F, Sun L, Xu C, Wu S. Comparative analysis of testis transcriptomes associated with male infertility in cattleyak. Theriogenology 2017; 88:28-42. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2016.09.047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2016] [Revised: 09/18/2016] [Accepted: 09/24/2016] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
|
48
|
Blithe DL. Pipeline for contraceptive development. Fertil Steril 2016; 106:1295-1302. [PMID: 27523300 PMCID: PMC5159203 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2016.07.1115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2016] [Revised: 07/14/2016] [Accepted: 07/21/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The high rates of unplanned pregnancy reflect an unmet need for effective contraceptive methods for women, especially for individuals with health risks such as obesity, diabetes, hypertension, and other conditions that may contraindicate use of an estrogen-containing product. Improvements in safety, user convenience, acceptability, and availability of products remain important goals of the contraceptive development program. Another important goal is to minimize the impact of the products on the environment. Development of new methods for male contraception has the potential to address many of these issues of safety for women who have contraindications to effective contraceptive methods but want to protect against pregnancy. It would also address a huge unmet need for men who want to control their fertility. Products under development for men would not introduce ecotoxic hormones into the water system.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Diana L Blithe
- Contraception Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland.
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Shetty J, Sinville R, Shumilin IA, Minor W, Zhang J, Hawkinson JE, Georg GI, Flickinger CJ, Herr JC. Recombinant production of enzymatically active male contraceptive drug target hTSSK2 - Localization of the TSKS domain phosphorylated by TSSK2. Protein Expr Purif 2016; 121:88-96. [PMID: 26777341 PMCID: PMC4866589 DOI: 10.1016/j.pep.2016.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2015] [Revised: 01/12/2016] [Accepted: 01/12/2016] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The testis-specific serine/threonine kinase 2 (TSSK2) has been proposed as a candidate male contraceptive target. Development of a selective inhibitor for this kinase first necessitates the production of highly purified, soluble human TSSK2 and its substrate, TSKS, with high yields and retention of biological activity for crystallography and compound screening. Strategies to produce full-length, soluble, biologically active hTSSK2 in baculovirus expression systems were tested and refined. Soluble preparations of TSSK2 were purified by immobilized-metal affinity chromatography (IMAC) followed by gel filtration chromatography. The biological activities of rec.hTSSK2 were verified by in vitro kinase and mobility shift assays using bacterially produced hTSKS (isoform 2), casein, glycogen synthase peptide (GS peptide) and various TSKS peptides as target substrates. Purified recombinant hTSSK2 showed robust kinase activity in the in vitro kinase assay by phosphorylating hTSKS isoform 2 and casein. The ATP Km values were similar for highly and partially purified fractions of hTSSK2 (2.2 and 2.7 μM, respectively). The broad spectrum kinase inhibitor staurosporine was a potent inhibitor of rec.hTSSK2 (IC50 = 20 nM). In vitro phosphorylation experiments carried out with TSKS (isoform 1) fragments revealed particularly strong phosphorylation of a recombinant N-terminal region representing aa 1-150 of TSKS, indicating that the N-terminus of human TSKS is phosphorylated by human TSSK2. Production of full-length enzymatically active recombinant TSSK2 kinase represents the achievement of a key benchmark for future discovery of TSSK inhibitors as male contraceptive agents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jagathpala Shetty
- Department of Cell Biology, Center for Research in Contraceptive and Reproductive Health, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Rondedrick Sinville
- Institute for Therapeutics Discovery and Development, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, 717 Delaware Street SE, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Igor A Shumilin
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biological Physics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Wladek Minor
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biological Physics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Jianhai Zhang
- Department of Cell Biology, Center for Research in Contraceptive and Reproductive Health, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA; Shanxi Key Laboratory of Ecological Animal Science and Environmental Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, Shanxi, China
| | - Jon E Hawkinson
- Institute for Therapeutics Discovery and Development, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, 717 Delaware Street SE, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Gunda I Georg
- Institute for Therapeutics Discovery and Development, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, 717 Delaware Street SE, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Charles J Flickinger
- Department of Cell Biology, Center for Research in Contraceptive and Reproductive Health, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - John C Herr
- Department of Cell Biology, Center for Research in Contraceptive and Reproductive Health, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
A selective ATP-competitive sphingosine kinase inhibitor demonstrates anti-cancer properties. Oncotarget 2016; 6:7065-83. [PMID: 25788259 PMCID: PMC4466670 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.3178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2014] [Accepted: 01/25/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The dynamic balance of cellular sphingolipids, the sphingolipid rheostat, is an important determinant of cell fate, and is commonly deregulated in cancer. Sphingosine 1-phosphate is a signaling molecule with anti-apoptotic, pro-proliferative and pro-angiogenic effects, while conversely, ceramide and sphingosine are pro-apoptotic. The sphingosine kinases (SKs) are key regulators of this sphingolipid rheostat, and are attractive targets for anti-cancer therapy. Here we report a first-in-class ATP-binding site-directed small molecule SK inhibitor, MP-A08, discovered using an approach of structural homology modelling of the ATP-binding site of SK1 and in silico docking with small molecule libraries. MP-A08 is a highly selective ATP competitive SK inhibitor that targets both SK1 and SK2. MP-A08 blocks pro-proliferative signalling pathways, induces mitochondrial-associated apoptosis in a SK-dependent manner, and reduces the growth of human lung adenocarcinoma tumours in a mouse xenograft model by both inducing tumour cell apoptosis and inhibiting tumour angiogenesis. Thus, this selective ATP competitive SK inhibitor provides a promising candidate for potential development as an anti-cancer therapy, and also, due to its different mode of inhibition to other known SK inhibitors, both validates the SKs as targets for anti-cancer therapy, and represents an important experimental tool to study these enzymes.
Collapse
|