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Hau RK, Wright SH, Cherrington NJ. In Vitro and In Vivo Models for Drug Transport Across the Blood-Testis Barrier. Drug Metab Dispos 2023; 51:1157-1168. [PMID: 37258305 PMCID: PMC10449102 DOI: 10.1124/dmd.123.001288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Revised: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The blood-testis barrier (BTB) is a selectively permeable membrane barrier formed by adjacent Sertoli cells (SCs) in the seminiferous tubules of the testes that develops intercellular junctional complexes to protect developing germ cells from external pressures. However, due to this inherent defense mechanism, the seminiferous tubule lumen can act as a pharmacological sanctuary site for latent viruses (e.g., Ebola, Zika) and cancers (e.g., leukemia). Therefore, it is critical to identify and evaluate BTB carrier-mediated drug delivery pathways to successfully treat these viruses and cancers. Many drugs are unable to effectively cross cell membranes without assistance from carrier proteins like transporters because they are large, polar, and often carry a charge at physiologic pH. SCs express transporters that selectively permit endogenous compounds, such as carnitine or nucleosides, across the BTB to support normal physiologic activity, although reproductive toxicants can also use these pathways, thereby circumventing the BTB. Certain xenobiotics, including select cancer therapeutics, antivirals, contraceptives, and environmental toxicants, are known to accumulate within the male genital tract and cause testicular toxicity; however, the transport pathways by which these compounds circumvent the BTB are largely unknown. Consequently, there is a need to identify the clinically relevant BTB transport pathways in in vitro and in vivo BTB models that recapitulate human pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics for these xenobiotics. This review summarizes the various in vitro and in vivo models of the BTB reported in the literature and highlights the strengths and weaknesses of certain models for drug disposition studies. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Drug disposition to the testes is influenced by the physical, physiological, and immunological components of the blood-testis barrier (BTB). But many compounds are known to cross the BTB by transporters, resulting in pharmacological and/or toxicological effects in the testes. Therefore, models that assess drug transport across the human BTB must adequately account for these confounding factors. This review identifies and discusses the benefits and limitations of various in vitro and in vivo BTB models for preclinical drug disposition studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raymond K Hau
- College of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, (R.K.H., N.J.C.) and College of Medicine, Department of Physiology, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona (S.H.W.)
| | - Stephen H Wright
- College of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, (R.K.H., N.J.C.) and College of Medicine, Department of Physiology, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona (S.H.W.)
| | - Nathan J Cherrington
- College of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, (R.K.H., N.J.C.) and College of Medicine, Department of Physiology, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona (S.H.W.)
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Peña-Corona SI, Vargas-Estrada D, Juárez-Rodríguez I, Retana-Márquez S, Mendoza-Rodríguez CA. Bisphenols as promoters of the dysregulation of cellular junction proteins of the blood-testis barrier in experimental animals: A systematic review of the literature. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 2023; 37:e23416. [PMID: 37352109 DOI: 10.1002/jbt.23416] [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: 09/02/2022] [Revised: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/25/2023]
Abstract
Daily, people are exposed to chemicals and environmental compounds such as bisphenols (BPs). These substances are present in more than 80% of human fluids. Human exposure to BPs is associated with male reproductive health disorders. Some of the main targets of BPs are intercellular junction proteins of the blood-testis barrier (BTB) in Sertoli cells because BPs alter the expression or induce aberrant localization of these proteins. In this systematic review, we explore the effects of BP exposure on the expression of BTB junction proteins and the characteristics of in vivo studies to identify potential gaps and priorities for future research. To this end, we conducted a systematic review of articles. Thirteen studies met our inclusion criteria. In most studies, animals treated with bisphenol-A (BPA) showed decreased occludin expression at all tested doses. However, bisphenol-AF treatment did not alter occludin expression. Cx43, ZO-1, β-catenin, nectin-3, cortactin, paladin, and claudin-11 expression also decreased in some tested doses of BP, while N-cadherin and FAK expression increased. BP treatment did not alter the expression of α and γ catenin, E-cadherin, JAM-A, and Arp 3. However, the expression of all these proteins was altered when BPA was administered to neonatal rodents in microgram doses. The results show significant heterogeneity between studies. Thus, it is necessary to perform more research to characterize the changes in BTB protein expression induced by BPs in animals to highlight future research directions that can inform the evaluation of risk of toxicity in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheila I Peña-Corona
- Departamento de Biología, Facultad de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Dinorah Vargas-Estrada
- Departamento de Fisiología y Farmacología, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Ivan Juárez-Rodríguez
- Departamento de Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Socorro Retana-Márquez
- Departamento Biología de la Reproducción, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana-Iztapalapa, Mexico City, Mexico
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Luaces JP, Toro-Urrego N, Otero-Losada M, Capani F. What do we know about blood-testis barrier? current understanding of its structure and physiology. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1114769. [PMID: 37397257 PMCID: PMC10307970 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1114769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Blood-testis barrier (BTB) creates a particular compartment in the seminiferous epithelium. Contacting Sertoli cell-Sertoli cell plasma membranes possess specialized junction proteins which present a complex dynamic of formation and dismantling. Thus, these specialized structures facilitate germ cell movement across the BTB. Junctions are constantly rearranged during spermatogenesis while the BTB preserves its barrier function. Imaging methods are essential to studying the dynamic of this sophisticated structure in order to understand its functional morphology. Isolated Sertoli cell cultures cannot represent the multiple interactions of the seminiferous epithelium and in situ studies became a fundamental approach to analyze BTB dynamics. In this review, we discuss the contributions of high-resolution microscopy studies to enlarge the body of morphofunctional data to understand the biology of the BTB as a dynamic structure. The first morphological evidence of the BTB was based on a fine structure of the junctions, which was resolved with Transmission Electron Microscopy. The use of conventional Fluorescent Light Microscopy to examine labelled molecules emerged as a fundamental technique for elucidating the precise protein localization at the BTB. Then laser-scanning confocal microscopy allowed the study of three-dimensional structures and complexes at the seminiferous epithelium. Several junction proteins, like the transmembrane, scaffold and signaling proteins, were identified in the testis using traditional animal models. BTB morphology was analyzed in different physiological conditions as the spermatocyte movement during meiosis, testis development, and seasonal spermatogenesis, but also structural elements, proteins, and BTB permeability were studied. Under pathological, pharmacological, or pollutant/toxic conditions, there are significant studies that provide high-resolution images which help to understand the dynamic of the BTB. Notwithstanding the advances, further research using new technologies is required to gain information on the BTB. Super-resolution light microscopy is needed to provide new research with high-quality images of targeted molecules at a nanometer-scale resolution. Finally, we highlight research areas that warrant future studies, pinpointing new microscopy approaches and helping to improve our ability to understand this barrier complexity.
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Affiliation(s)
- J. P. Luaces
- Centro de Altos Estudios en Ciencias Humanas y de la Salud, Universidad Abierta Interamericana, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, CAECIHS.UAI-CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - N. Toro-Urrego
- Centro de Altos Estudios en Ciencias Humanas y de la Salud, Universidad Abierta Interamericana, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, CAECIHS.UAI-CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - M. Otero-Losada
- Centro de Altos Estudios en Ciencias Humanas y de la Salud, Universidad Abierta Interamericana, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, CAECIHS.UAI-CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - F. Capani
- Centro de Altos Estudios en Ciencias Humanas y de la Salud, Universidad Abierta Interamericana, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, CAECIHS.UAI-CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Autónoma de Chile, Santiago, Chile
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Fu X, Liu L, Han H, Li Y, Si S, Xu B, Dai W, Yang H, He T, Du X, Pei X. Integrated fecal microbiome and metabolome analysis explore the link between polystyrene nanoplastics exposure and male reproductive toxicity in mice. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY 2023; 38:1277-1291. [PMID: 36880397 DOI: 10.1002/tox.23763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Revised: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) are novel environmental pollutants that are ubiquitous in the environment and everyday life. NPs can easily enter the tissues and have more significant potential health risks due to their smaller diameter. Previous studies have shown that NPs can induce male reproductive toxicity, but the detailed mechanisms remain uncertain. In this study, intragastric administration treated mice with polystyrene NPs (PS-NPs, 50, and 90 nm) at 3 and 15 mg/mL/day doses for 30 days. Then, the fresh fecal samples were collected from those mice that the exposure doses of 50 nm PS-NPs at 3 mg/mL/day and 90 nm at 15 mg/mL/day for subsequent investigations of 16S rRNA and metabolomics according to significant toxicological effects (Sperm number, viability, abnormality, and testosterone level). The conjoint analysis findings indicated that PS-NPs disrupted the homeostasis of the gut microbiota, metabolism, and male reproduction, suggesting that abnormal gut microbiota-metabolite pathways may be important in PS-NPs-induced male reproductive toxicity. Meanwhile, the common differential metabolites such as 4-deoxy-Erythronic acid, 8-iso-15-keto-PGE2, apo-10'-violaxanthin, beta-D-glucosamine, isokobusone, oleamide, oxoadipic acid, sphingosine induced by 50 and 90 nm PS-NPs might be used as biomarkers to explore PS-NPs-induced male reproductive toxicity. In addition, this study systematically demonstrated that nano-scale PS-NPs induced male reproductive toxicity via the crosstalk of gut microbiota and metabolites. It also provided valuable insights into the toxicity of PS-NPs, which was conducive to reproductive health risk assessment for public health prevention and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xufeng Fu
- Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation and Maintenance of Ministry of Education, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Ling Liu
- Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation and Maintenance of Ministry of Education, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Hang Han
- Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation and Maintenance of Ministry of Education, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Yuanyuan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Shengbin Si
- Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation and Maintenance of Ministry of Education, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Bo Xu
- Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation and Maintenance of Ministry of Education, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Wenjie Dai
- Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation and Maintenance of Ministry of Education, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Hong Yang
- Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation and Maintenance of Ministry of Education, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Tiantian He
- Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation and Maintenance of Ministry of Education, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Xing Du
- Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation and Maintenance of Ministry of Education, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Xiuying Pei
- Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation and Maintenance of Ministry of Education, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
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Schulz B, Schumacher V, Ngezahayo A, Maier-Begandt D, Schadzek N, Wilhelm J, Weidner W, Pilatz A, Fietz D, Kliesch S, Schnepel N, Hambruch N, Rode K, Langeheine M, Brehm R. Analysis of connexin 43, connexin 45 and N-cadherin in the human sertoli cell line FS1 and the human seminoma-like cell line TCam-2 in comparison with human testicular biopsies. BMC Cancer 2023; 23:232. [PMID: 36899312 PMCID: PMC10007848 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-023-10696-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Germ cell tumors are relatively common in young men. They derive from a non-invasive precursor, called germ cell neoplasia in situ, but the exact pathogenesis is still unknown. Thus, further understanding provides the basis for diagnostics, prognostics and therapy and is therefore paramount. A recently developed cell culture model consisting of human FS1 Sertoli cells and human TCam-2 seminoma-like cells offers new opportunities for research on seminoma. Since junctional proteins within the seminiferous epithelium are involved in cell organization, differentiation and proliferation, they represent interesting candidates for investigations on intercellular adhesion and communication in context with neoplastic progression. METHODS FS1 and TCam-2 cells were characterized regarding gap-junction-related connexin 43 (Cx43) and connexin 45 (Cx45), and adherens-junction-related N-cadherin using microarray, PCR, Western blot, immunocytochemistry and immunofluorescence. Results were compared to human testicular biopsies at different stages of seminoma development via immunohistochemistry to confirm the cell lines' representativeness. Furthermore, dye-transfer measurements were performed to investigate functional cell coupling. RESULTS Cx43, Cx45 and N-cadherin mRNA and protein were generally detectable in both cell lines via qualitative RT-PCR and Western blot. Immunocytochemistry and immunofluorescence revealed a mainly membrane-associated expression of N-cadherin in both cell lines, but gene expression values were higher in FS1 cells. Cx43 expression was also membrane-associated in FS1 cells but barely detectable in TCam-2 cells. Accordingly, a high gene expression value of Cx43 was measured for FS1 and a low value for TCam-2 cells. Cx45 was primary located in the cytoplasm of FS1 and TCam-2 cells and revealed similar low to medium gene expression values in both cell lines. Overall, results were comparable with corresponding biopsies. Additionally, both FS1 and TCam-2 cells showed dye diffusion into neighboring cells. CONCLUSION The junctional proteins Cx43, Cx45 and N-cadherin are expressed in FS1 and TCam-2 cells at mRNA and/or protein level in different amounts and localizations, and cells of both lines are functionally coupled among each other. Concerning the expression of these junctional proteins, FS1 and TCam-2 cells are largely representative for Sertoli and seminoma cells, respectively. Thus, these results provide the basis for further coculture experiments evaluating the role of junctional proteins in context with seminoma progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Birte Schulz
- Institute of Anatomy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Hannover, Germany.
| | - Valérie Schumacher
- Department of Urology and Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.,Department of Surgery and Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Anaclet Ngezahayo
- Department of Cell Physiology and Biophysics, Institute of Cell Biology and Biophysics, Leibniz University Hannover, Hannover, Germany.,Center for Systems Neuroscience Hannover, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover Foundation, Hannover, Germany
| | - Daniela Maier-Begandt
- Department of Cell Physiology and Biophysics, Institute of Cell Biology and Biophysics, Leibniz University Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - Nadine Schadzek
- Department of Cell Biology, Institute of Cell Biology and Biophysics, Leibniz University Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - Jochen Wilhelm
- Institute for Lung Health, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany.,Universities of Giessen and Marburg Lung Center, Member of the German Center for Lung Research, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany.,The Cardiopulmonary Institute, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Weidner
- Department of Urology, Pediatric Urology and Andrology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Adrian Pilatz
- Department of Urology, Pediatric Urology and Andrology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Daniela Fietz
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Sabine Kliesch
- Centre of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, University of Muenster, Muenster, Germany
| | - Nadine Schnepel
- Institute of Anatomy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Hannover, Germany
| | - Nina Hambruch
- Institute of Anatomy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Hannover, Germany
| | - Kristina Rode
- Institute of Anatomy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Hannover, Germany
| | - Marion Langeheine
- Institute of Anatomy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Hannover, Germany
| | - Ralph Brehm
- Institute of Anatomy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Hannover, Germany
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Targeted Disruption of Lats1 and Lats2 in Mice Impairs Testis Development and Alters Somatic Cell Fate. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232113585. [DOI: 10.3390/ijms232113585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2022] [Revised: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Hippo signaling plays an essential role in the development of numerous tissues. Although it was previously shown that the transcriptional effectors of Hippo signaling Yes-associated protein (YAP) and transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ) can fine-tune the regulation of sex differentiation genes in the testes, the role of Hippo signaling in testis development remains largely unknown. To further explore the role of Hippo signaling in the testes, we conditionally deleted the key Hippo kinases large tumor suppressor homolog kinases 1 and -2 (Lats1 and Lats2, two kinases that antagonize YAP and TAZ transcriptional co-regulatory activity) in the somatic cells of the testes using an Nr5a1-cre strain (Lats1flox/flox;Lats2flox/flox;Nr5a1-cre). We report here that early stages of testis somatic cell differentiation were not affected in this model but progressive testis cord dysgenesis was observed starting at gestational day e14.5. Testis cord dysgenesis was further associated with the loss of polarity of the Sertoli cells and the loss of SOX9 expression but not WT1. In parallel with testis cord dysgenesis, a loss of steroidogenic gene expression associated with the appearance of myofibroblast-like cells in the interstitial space was also observed in mutant animals. Furthermore, the loss of YAP phosphorylation, the accumulation of nuclear TAZ (and YAP) in both the Sertoli and interstitial cell populations, and an increase in their transcriptional co-regulatory activity in the testes suggest that the observed phenotype could be attributed at least in part to YAP and TAZ. Taken together, our results suggest that Hippo signaling is required to maintain proper differentiation of testis somatic cells.
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Connexin43 represents an important regulator for Sertoli cell morphology, Sertoli cell nuclear ultrastructure, and Sertoli cell maturation. Sci Rep 2022; 12:12898. [PMID: 35902708 PMCID: PMC9334284 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-16919-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The Sertoli cell (SC)-specific knockout (KO) of connexin43 (Cx43) was shown to be an effector of multiple histological changes in tubular morphology, resulting in germ cell loss through to a Sertoli-cell-only (SCO) phenotype and vacuolated seminiferous tubules containing SC-clusters. Our present study focused on the effects of Cx43 loss on SC ultrastructure. Using serial block-face scanning electron microscopy (SBF-SEM), we could confirm previous results. Ultrastructural analysis of Sertoli cell nuclei (SCN) revealed that these appear in clusters with a phenotype resembling immature/proliferating SCs in KO mice. Surprisingly, SCs of fertile wild type (WT) mice contained SCN with a predominantly smooth surface instead of deep indentations of the nuclear envelope, suggesting that these indentations do not correlate with germ cell support or spermatogenesis. SBF-SEM facilitated the precise examination of clustered SCs. Even if the exact maturation state of mutant SCs remained unclear, our study could detect indications of cellular senescence as well as immaturity, emphasising that Cx43 affects SC maturation. Moreover, Sudan III staining and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) demonstrated an altered lipid metabolism in SCs of Cx43 deficient mice.
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Syntaxin binding protein 2 in sertoli cells regulates spermatogonial stem cell maintenance through directly interacting with connexin 43 in the testes of neonatal mice. Mol Biol Rep 2022; 49:7557-7566. [DOI: 10.1007/s11033-022-07564-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Kim B, Breton S. The MAPK/ERK signaling pathway regulates the expression and localization of Cx43 in mouse proximal epididymis†. Biol Reprod 2022; 106:919-927. [PMID: 35156117 PMCID: PMC9113436 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Revised: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to clarify the functional role of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK1/2)-signaling pathway in the expression and localization of connexin 43 (Cx43). Mice were treated with the mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase (MEK1/2) inhibitor, PD325901, which induced a progressive decrease in ERK1/2 phosphorylation (pERK) in the proximal epididymis of the mice, without affecting total ERK level. Cx43 staining with punctuated reactive sites was observed in the basolateral membranes in the initial segment (IS) of mouse epididymis. However, PD325901 induced a significant decrease in Cx43 labeling in the basolateral membranes. Interestingly, Cx43, which was undetectable in the apical region of epididymis under control conditions, showed a significant increase in the apical region after PD 325901 treatment. To confirm whether Cx43 was present in tight junctions (TJs) after PD 325901 treatment, PD325901-treated epididymis samples were double-labeled with Cx43 and zonula occludens (ZO)-1 (a TJ protein marker). Thereafter, confocal microscopy showed the colocalization of Cx43 and ZO-1 in the epididymis after PD325901 treatment. Collectively, our results indicated that PD325901 treatment induced a significant increase in Cx43 localization on TJs, where it was colocalized with ZO-1. Therefore, the study suggested that ERK phosphorylation is essential for the proper expression and localization of the gap junction (GJ) protein, and that the relationship between GJs and TJs could play an important role in establishing and maintaining microenvironmental homeostasis for sperm maturation in the IS of mouse epididymis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bongki Kim
- Center for Systems Biology, Program in Membrane Biology and Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Animal Resources Science, Kongju National University, Yesan, Chungcheongnam-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Sylvie Breton
- Center for Systems Biology, Program in Membrane Biology and Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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Liu B, Liu C, Ma B, Zhang R, Zhao Z, Xiao S, Cao W, Ma Y, Zhu G, Li W, Li Z. PA1 participates in the maintenance of blood-testis barrier integrity via cooperation with JUN in the Sertoli cells of mice. Cell Biosci 2022; 12:41. [PMID: 35379345 PMCID: PMC8981650 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-022-00773-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 03/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The blood–testis barrier (BTB) is essential to the microenvironment of spermatogenesis, and Sertoli cells provide the cellular basis for BTB construction. Numerous nuclear transcription factors have been identified to be vital for the proper functioning of Sertoli cells. PA1 has been reported to play important roles during diverse biological processes, yet its potential function in male reproduction is still unknown. Results Here, we show that PA1 was highly expressed in human and mouse testis and predominantly localized in the nuclei of Sertoli cells. Sertoli cell-specific Pa1 knockout resulted in an azoospermia-like phenotype in mice. The knockout of this gene led to multiple defects in spermatogenesis, such as the disorganization of the cytoskeleton during basal and apical ectoplasmic specialization and the disruption of the BTB. Further transcriptomic analysis, together with Cut-Tag results of PA1 in Sertoli cells, revealed that PA1 could affect the expression of a subset of genes that are essential for the normal function of Sertoli cells, including those genes associated with actin organization and cellular junctions such as Connexin43 (Cx43). We further demonstrated that the expression of Cx43 depended on the interaction between JUN, one of the AP-1 complex transcription factors, and PA1. Conclusion Overall, our findings reveal that PA1 is essential for the maintenance of BTB integrity in Sertoli cells and regulates BTB construction-related gene expression via transcription factors. Thus, this newly discovered mechanism in Sertoli cells provides a potential diagnostic or even therapeutic target for some individuals with azoospermia. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13578-022-00773-y.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Liu
- Department of Human Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Chao Liu
- Institute of Reproductive Health and Perinatology, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou, 510000, China
| | - Binfang Ma
- Department of Human Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Ruidan Zhang
- University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Zhiwei Zhao
- Department of Human Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Sai Xiao
- University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Wanjun Cao
- Department of Human Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Yanjie Ma
- Institute of Reproductive Health and Perinatology, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou, 510000, China.,University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Guozhang Zhu
- Department of Biology, Marshall University, Huntington, WV, 25755, USA
| | - Wei Li
- Institute of Reproductive Health and Perinatology, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou, 510000, China.
| | - Zhen Li
- Department of Human Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China.
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Members of the AP-1 Family of Transcription Factors Regulate the Expression of Gja1 in Mouse GC-1 Spermatogonial Cells. APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/app12031408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Gap junctions, mainly formed by Gja1 (Connexin43), play an essential role in the regulation of proliferation and differentiation of spermatogonia in the testis. Regulation of the abundance of Gja1 in spermatogonia involves various processes, including gene transcription, mRNA maturation, protein synthesis, post-translational modifications, plasma membrane integration and protein degradation. However, gene expression of Gja1 is abnormally decreased in most testicular germ cell tumors. Hence, a better understanding of the mechanisms of transcriptional regulation of Gja1 in spermatogonia is essential to understand how the loss of its expression occurs during the development of testicular cancer. As in other cell types, activator protein-1 (AP-1) transcription factors may be involved in such regulatory process. Thus, AP-1 members were overexpressed in GC-1 cells to assess their impact on Gja1 expression. We showed that Jun and Fosl2 cooperate to activate the Gja1 promoter in GC-1 cells. Furthermore, the recruitment of Jun to the proximal region (−153 to +46 bp) of the Gja1 promoter has been confirmed via chromatin immunoprecipitation. Protein kinase A and calcium-calmodulin protein kinase I also contribute to the activation of Gja1 expression by improving the cooperation between AP-1 factors. Therefore, the reduction in Gja1 expression in testicular germ cell tumors may involve a loss of cooperation between AP-1 factors.
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Action and Interaction between Retinoic Acid Signaling and Blood–Testis Barrier Function in the Spermatogenesis Cycle. Cells 2022; 11:cells11030352. [PMID: 35159162 PMCID: PMC8834282 DOI: 10.3390/cells11030352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Revised: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 11/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is a complex process occurring in mammalian testes, and constant sperm production depends on the exact regulation of the microenvironment in the testes. Many studies have indicated the crucial role of blood–testis barrier (BTB) junctions and retinoic acid (RA) signaling in the spermatogenesis process. The BTB consists of junctions between adjacent Sertoli cells, comprised mainly of tight junctions and gap junctions. In vitamin A-deficient mice, halted spermatogenesis could be rebooted by RA or vitamin A administration, indicating that RA is absolutely required for spermatogenesis. Accordingly, this manuscript will review and discuss how RA and the BTB regulate spermatogenesis and the interaction between RA signaling and BTB function.
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Rode K, Langeheine M, Seeger B, Brehm R. Connexin43 in Germ Cells Seems to Be Dispensable for Murine Spermatogenesis. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22157924. [PMID: 34360693 PMCID: PMC8348783 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22157924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2021] [Revised: 07/13/2021] [Accepted: 07/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Testicular Connexin43 (Cx43) connects adjacent Sertoli cells (SC) and SC to germ cells (GC) in the seminiferous epithelium and plays a crucial role in spermatogenesis. However, the distinction whether this results from impaired inter-SC communication or between GC and SC is not possible, so far. Thus, the question arises, whether a GC-specific Cx43 KO has similar effects on spermatogenesis as it is general or SC-specific KO. Using the Cre/loxP recombinase system, two conditional KO mouse lines lacking Cx43 in premeiotic (pGCCx43KO) or meiotic GC (mGCCx43KO) were generated. It was demonstrated by qRT-PCR that Cx43 mRNA was significantly decreased in adult pGCCx43KO mice, while it was also reduced in mGCCx43KO mice, yet not statistically significant. Body and testis weights, testicular histology, tubular diameter, numbers of intratubular cells and Cx43 protein synthesis and localization did not show any significant differences in semi-quantitative Western blot analysis and immunohistochemistry comparing adult male KO and WT mice of both mouse lines. Male KO mice were fertile. These results indicate that Cx43 in spermatogonia/spermatids does not seem to be essential for successful termination of spermatogenesis and fertility as it is known for Cx43 in somatic SC, but SC-GC communication might rather occur via heterotypic GJ channels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristina Rode
- Institute of Anatomy, University of Veterinary Medicine Foundation, 30173 Hanover, Germany; (K.R.); (M.L.)
| | - Marion Langeheine
- Institute of Anatomy, University of Veterinary Medicine Foundation, 30173 Hanover, Germany; (K.R.); (M.L.)
| | - Bettina Seeger
- Institute for Food Quality and Food Safety, University of Veterinary Medicine Foundation, 30173 Hanover, Germany;
| | - Ralph Brehm
- Institute of Anatomy, University of Veterinary Medicine Foundation, 30173 Hanover, Germany; (K.R.); (M.L.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-511-8457215
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Peña-Corona SI, Vásquez Aguire WS, Vargas D, Juárez I, Mendoza-Rodríguez CA. Effects of bisphenols on Blood-Testis Barrier protein expression in vitro: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Reprod Toxicol 2021; 103:139-148. [PMID: 34146661 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2021.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2021] [Revised: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 06/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Bisphenols are a group of environmental endocrine-disrupting chemicals that produce alterations in the expression of intercellular junction proteins of the Blood-Testis Barrier (BTB) involved in spermatogenesis. The association between bisphenol exposure and BTB protein expression is controversial. Therefore, we performed this systematic review and meta-analysis to clarify bisphenol effects on Sertoli cell BTB protein expression in vitro. The Standardized Mean Difference (SMD) with a 95 % confidence interval (95 % CI) was used to evaluate the association between alterations in the BTB protein expression and bisphenol exposure in vitro. Six articles were included in the meta-analysis. Bisphenol-A (BPA) exposure at 200 μM was associated with significant decrease in BTB protein expression (SMD = -2.70, 95 %CI: -3.59, -1.80, p het = 0.46, p = <0.00001). In the moderate (40-50 μM) and low dose (<25 μM), no significant associations were obtained. We also found a non-monotonic dose-response curve of bisphenol effect in ZO-1 protein expression; low and high doses presented a significant decrease compared to control, while moderate dose presented no change. The current temporary Tolerable Daily Intake (tTDI) of BPA is 4 μg/kg bw/day. The 5-25 μM doses of BPA are equivalent to ∼1-5 mg/kg bw, respectively. Although the low dose group (<25 μM) assessed doses below the previous NOAEL value, these doses are above the current tTDI. Thus, it is necessary to conduct more studies with lower bisphenol concentrations to avoid underestimating the potential adverse effects of bisphenols at doses below tTDI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheila Irais Peña-Corona
- Facultad de Química, Departamento de Biología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México 04510, Mexico
| | - Walker Sixto Vásquez Aguire
- Facultad de Ciencias Matemáticas, Escuela Académica de Estadística, Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos 15081, Lima, Peru
| | - Dinorah Vargas
- Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Departamento de Fisiología y Farmacología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México 04510, Mexico
| | - Ivan Juárez
- Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Departamento de Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México 04510, Mexico
| | - C Adriana Mendoza-Rodríguez
- Facultad de Química, Departamento de Biología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México 04510, Mexico.
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Blondet A, Martin G, Paulic L, Perrard MH, Durand P. An in vitro bioassay to assess the potential global toxicity of waters on spermatogenesis: a pilot study. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 28:26606-26616. [PMID: 33495953 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-021-12480-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2020] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Many toxicants are present in water as a mixture. Male infertility is one of the environmental impacts in developed countries. Using our rat seminiferous tubule culture model, we evaluated the effects of waters of different origins, on several parameters of the seminiferous epithelium. Concentrated culture medium was diluted with the waters to be tested (final concentrations of the tested waters were between 8 and 80%). The integrity of the blood-testis barrier was assessed by the trans-epithelial electric resistance (TEER). The levels of mRNAs specific of Sertoli cells, of cellular junctions, of each population of germ cells, of androgen receptor, of estrogen receptor α, and of aromatase were also studied. We report, here, the results obtained with ten waters, some of them possessing a negative effect on spermatogenesis. The results showed that, according to the tested waters, their effects on the parameters studied might be quite different indicating many different mechanisms of toxicity, including some endocrine-disrupting effects. It has been reported that men with impaired semen parameters have an increased mortality rate suggesting semen quality may provide a fundamental biomarker of overall male health. Hence, we have developed a relevant in vitro bioassay allowing the evaluation of the potential toxicity of different types of waters on male fertility and to assess some aspects of their mechanism of action. In addition to the TEER measure, the number and/or the identity of the studied mRNAs can be largely increased and/or modified, thus enhancing the possibility of using this model as a "warning system."
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonine Blondet
- Kallistem, Vétagrosup, 1 Avenue Bourgelat, 69280, Marcy-l'Etoile, France
| | - Guillaume Martin
- Kallistem, Vétagrosup, 1 Avenue Bourgelat, 69280, Marcy-l'Etoile, France
| | - Laurent Paulic
- Tame-Water, 3 Rue Jean Jaurès, 85000, La Roche sur Yon, France
| | - Marie-Hélène Perrard
- INSERM U 1208, Institut Cellule Souche et Cerveau, 18 Avenue du Doyen Lépine, 69500, Bron, France
| | - Philippe Durand
- Kallistem, Vétagrosup, 1 Avenue Bourgelat, 69280, Marcy-l'Etoile, France.
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Wu H, Wei Y, Zhou Y, Long C, Hong Y, Fu Y, Zhao T, Wang J, Wu Y, Wu S, Shen L, Wei G. Bisphenol S perturbs Sertoli cell junctions in male rats via alterations in cytoskeletal organization mediated by an imbalance between mTORC1 and mTORC2. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 762:144059. [PMID: 33360459 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.144059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2020] [Revised: 11/19/2020] [Accepted: 11/22/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Bisphenol S (BPS) is now used as an alternative of bisphenol A (BPA), but has been implicated in male reproductive dysfunction-including diminished sperm number and quality and altered hormonal concentrations. However, the mechanisms of action subserving these effects remains unclear. In the present study, BPS at doses of 50 mg/kg bw and 100 mg/kg bw caused defects in the integrity of the blood-testis barrier (BTB) and apical ectoplasmic specialization (ES), and we also delineated an underlying molecular mechanism of action. BPS induced F-actin and α-tubulin disorganization in seminiferous tubules, which in turn led to the truncation of actin filaments and microtubules. Additionally, BPS was found to perturb the expression of the actin-binding proteins Arp3 and Eps8, which are critical for the organization of the actin filaments. mTORC1 and mTORC2 manifest opposing roles in Sertoli cell junctional function, and we demonstrated that mTORC1/rpS6/Akt/MMP9 signaling was increased and that mTORC2/rictor activity was also attenuated. In summary, we showed that BPS-induced disruption of the BTB and apical ES perturbed normal spermatogenic function that was mediated by mTORC1 and mTORC2. The imbalance in mTORC1 and mTORC2, in turn, altered the expression of actin-binding proteins, resulting in the impairment of F-actin and MT organization, and inhibited the expression of junctional proteins at the BTB and apical ES.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huan Wu
- Department of Urology, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400014, PR China; Pediatric Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400014, PR China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400014, PR China
| | - Yuexin Wei
- Department of Urology, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400014, PR China; Pediatric Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400014, PR China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400014, PR China
| | - Yu Zhou
- Department of Urology, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400014, PR China; Pediatric Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400014, PR China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400014, PR China
| | - Chunlan Long
- Pediatric Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400014, PR China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400014, PR China
| | - Yifan Hong
- Department of Urology, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400014, PR China; Pediatric Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400014, PR China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400014, PR China
| | - Yan Fu
- Department of Urology, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400014, PR China; Pediatric Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400014, PR China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400014, PR China
| | - Tianxin Zhao
- Department of Urology, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400014, PR China; Pediatric Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400014, PR China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400014, PR China
| | - Junke Wang
- Department of Urology, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400014, PR China; Pediatric Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400014, PR China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400014, PR China
| | - Yuhao Wu
- Department of Urology, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400014, PR China; Pediatric Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400014, PR China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400014, PR China
| | - Shengde Wu
- Department of Urology, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400014, PR China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400014, PR China
| | - Lianju Shen
- Pediatric Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400014, PR China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400014, PR China.
| | - Guanghui Wei
- Department of Urology, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400014, PR China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400014, PR China
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Lu Y, Liu M, Tursi NJ, Yan B, Cao X, Che Q, Yang N, Dong X. Uropathogenic Escherichia coli Infection Compromises the Blood-Testis Barrier by Disturbing mTORC1-mTORC2 Balance. Front Immunol 2021; 12:582858. [PMID: 33679734 PMCID: PMC7933507 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.582858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The structural and functional destruction of the blood-testis barrier (BTB) following uropathogenic E. coli (UPEC) infection may be a critical component of the pathologic progress of orchitis. Recent findings indicate that the mammalian target of the rapamycin (mTOR)-signaling pathway is implicated in the regulation of BTB assembly and restructuring. To explore the mechanisms underlying BTB damage induced by UPEC infection, we analyzed BTB integrity and the involvement of the mTOR-signaling pathway using in vivo and in vitro UPEC-infection models. We initially confirmed that soluble virulent factors secreted from UPEC trigger a stress response in Sertoli cells and disturb adjacent cell junctions via down-regulation of junctional proteins, including occludin, zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1), F-actin, connexin-43 (CX-43), β-catenin, and N-cadherin. The BTB was ultimately disrupted in UPEC-infected rat testes, and blood samples from UPEC-induced orchitis in these animals were positive for anti-sperm antibodies. Furthermore, we herein also demonstrated that mTOR complex 1 (mTORC1) over-activation and mTORC2 suppression contributed to the disturbance in the balance between BTB "opening" and "closing." More importantly, rapamycin (a specific mTORC1 inhibitor) significantly restored the expression of cell-junction proteins and exerted a protective effect on the BTB during UPEC infection. We further confirmed that short-term treatment with rapamycin did not aggravate spermatogenic degeneration in infected rats. Collectively, this study showed an association between abnormal activation of the mTOR-signaling pathway and BTB impairment during UPEC-induced orchitis, which may provide new insights into a potential treatment strategy for testicular infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongning Lu
- Reproductive Medicine Centre, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Miao Liu
- Reproductive Medicine Centre, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Nicholas J. Tursi
- Department of Biology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Bin Yan
- Reproductive Medicine Centre, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiang Cao
- Reproductive Medicine Centre, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qi Che
- Reproductive Medicine Centre, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Nianqin Yang
- Reproductive Medicine Centre, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xi Dong
- Reproductive Medicine Centre, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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Couture R, Martin LJ. The transcription factors SF-1 and SOX8 cooperate to upregulate Cx43 expression in mouse TM4 sertoli cells. Biochem Biophys Rep 2020; 24:100828. [PMID: 33088929 PMCID: PMC7558832 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrep.2020.100828] [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: 06/28/2020] [Revised: 09/23/2020] [Accepted: 09/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Gap junctions made by connexins within the adult testis are essential for communication between Sertoli cells and for spermatogenesis. Sertoli cells play an important role in supporting germ cells differentiation and maturation into spermatozoa. Connexin43 (Cx43) is the most abundant and important connexin of the testis. We have shown previously that the expression of Cx43 is being regulated by SOX and AP-1 transcription factors in Sertoli cells. However, additional regulatory elements being able to recruit orphan nuclear receptors may be involved. Since SOX and SF-1 transcription factors have been shown to cooperate to regulate gene expression in Sertoli cells, we wondered if such mechanism could be involved in the activation of Cx43 expression. Thus, the activity of the Cx43 promoter was measured by co-transfections of luciferase reporter plasmid constructs with different expression vectors for transcription factors in the TM4 Sertoli cell line. The recruitment of SF-1 to the proximal region of the Cx43 promoter was evaluated by chromatin immunoprecipitation. Our results indicate that SOX8 and SF-1, as well as SOX9 and Nur77, cooperate to activate the expression of Cx43 and that SF-1 is being recruited to the −132 to −26 bp region of the Cx43 promoter. These results allow us to have a better understanding of the mechanisms regulating Cx43 expression and could explain some disturbances in communication between Sertoli cells responsible for impaired fertility. SF-1 and SOX8 cooperate to activate Cx43 expression in TM4 Sertoli cells. SF-1 is being recruited to the proximal region of the Cx43 promoter. LRH-1 and Nur77 also cooperate with SOX factors to activate Cx43 expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roxanne Couture
- Biology Department, Université de Moncton, Moncton, New-Brunswick, E1A 3E9, Canada
| | - Luc J Martin
- Biology Department, Université de Moncton, Moncton, New-Brunswick, E1A 3E9, Canada
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Yawer A, Sychrová E, Labohá P, Raška J, Jambor T, Babica P, Sovadinová I. Endocrine-disrupting chemicals rapidly affect intercellular signaling in Leydig cells. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2020; 404:115177. [PMID: 32739526 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2020.115177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2020] [Revised: 07/19/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
A decline in male fertility possibly caused by environmental contaminants, namely endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), is a topic of public concern and scientific interest. This study addresses a specific role of testicular gap junctional intercellular communication (GJIC) between adjacent prepubertal Leydig cells in endocrine disruption and male reproductive toxicity. Organochlorine pesticides (lindane, methoxychlor, DDT), industrial chemicals (PCB153, bisphenol A, nonylphenol and octylphenol) as well as personal care product components (triclosan, triclocarban) rapidly dysregulated GJIC in murine Leydig TM3 cells. The selected GJIC-inhibiting EDCs (methoxychlor, triclosan, triclocarban, lindane, DDT) caused the immediate GJIC disruption by the relocation of gap junctional protein connexin 43 (Cx43) from the plasma membrane and the alternation of Cx43 phosphorylation pattern (Ser368, Ser279, Ser282) of its full-length and two N-truncated isoforms. After more prolonged exposure (24 h), EDCs decreased steady-state levels of full-length Cx43 protein and its two N-truncated isoforms, and eventually (triclosan, triclocarban) also tight junction protein Tjp-1. The disturbance of GJIC was accompanied by altered activity of mitogen-activated protein kinases MAPK-Erk1/2 and MAPK-p38, and a decrease in stimulated progesterone production. Our results indicate that EDCs might disrupt testicular homeostasis and development via disruption of testicular GJIC, a dysregulation of junctional and non-junctional functions of Cx43, activation of MAPKs, and disruption of an early stage of steroidogenesis in prepubertal Leydig cells. These critical disturbances of Leydig cell development and functions during a prepubertal period might be contributing to impaired male reproduction health later on.
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Affiliation(s)
- Affiefa Yawer
- RECETOX, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kamenice 753/5, building A29, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Eliška Sychrová
- RECETOX, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kamenice 753/5, building A29, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Petra Labohá
- RECETOX, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kamenice 753/5, building A29, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Jan Raška
- RECETOX, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kamenice 753/5, building A29, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Tomáš Jambor
- BioFood Centre, Faculty of Biotechnology and Food Sciences, Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra, Tr. A. Hlinku 2, 949 76 Nitra, Slovac Republic
| | - Pavel Babica
- RECETOX, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kamenice 753/5, building A29, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Iva Sovadinová
- RECETOX, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kamenice 753/5, building A29, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic.
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Establishment and functional characterization of a murine primary Sertoli cell line deficient of connexin43. Cell Tissue Res 2020; 381:309-326. [PMID: 32328805 PMCID: PMC7369266 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-020-03203-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2019] [Accepted: 03/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The Sertoli cell (SC) specific connexin43 (Cx43) knockout (SCCx43KO) mouse line is ideal to gain insight into the mechanistic gap junction formation in SC and the seminiferous epithelium. A method for developing primary SC cultures from these mice was established, validated and successfully characterized via polymerase chain reaction, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence (IF), and Western blots (WB). It was evident that both knockout (KO) and wild-type (WT) primary cell cultures were similar in morphology. These highly pure SC cultures were subjected to cell proliferation assays indicating no notable proliferation in cultures of both genotypes. Measurements of cell monolayer integrity indicated significant increases in transepithelial electrical resistance and consequently in tight junction expression of the KO cultures. Using semi-quantitative WB and IF, tight junction protein claudin-11 was analyzed. These results support a role for Cx43 in regulating blood-testis barrier (BTB) function, composition, and dynamics in vitro. Thus, the SC deficient Cx43 cell cultures may provide a valuable in vitro tool for a better understanding of the mechanistic role of Cx43 in spermatogenesis and BTB assembly.
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Durand P, Blondet A, Martin G, Carette D, Pointis G, Perrard MH. Effects of a mixture of low doses of atrazine and benzo[a]pyrene on the rat seminiferous epithelium either during or after the establishment of the blood-testis barrier in the rat seminiferous tubule culture model. Toxicol In Vitro 2020; 62:104699. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tiv.2019.104699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2019] [Revised: 08/19/2019] [Accepted: 10/22/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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Hou X, Khan MRA, Turmaine M, Thrasivoulou C, Becker DL, Ahmed A. Wnt signaling regulates cytosolic translocation of connexin 43. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 2019; 317:R248-R261. [DOI: 10.1152/ajpregu.00268.2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
The availability of intracellular, stabilized β-catenin, a transcription factor coactivator, is tightly regulated; β-catenin is translocated into the nucleus in response to Wnt ligand binding to its cell membrane receptors. Here we show that Wnt signal activation in mammalian cells activates intracellular mobilization of connexin 43 (Cx43), which belongs to a gap junction protein family, a new target protein in response to extracellular Wnt signal activation. Transmission electron microscopy showed that the nuclear localization of Cx43 was increased by 8- to 10-fold in Wnt5A- and 9B-treated cells compared with controls; this Wnt-induced increase was negated in the cells where Cx43 and β-catenin were knocked down using shRNA. There was a significant ( P < 0.001) and concomitant depletion of the cell membrane and cytosolic signal of Cx43 in Wnt-treated cells with an increase in the nuclear signal for Cx43; this was more obvious in cells where β-catenin was knocked down using shRNA. Conversely, Cx43 knockdown resulted in increased β-catenin in the nucleus in the absence of Wnt activation. Coimmunoprecipitation of Cx43 and β-catenin proteins with a casein kinase (CKIδ) antibody showed that Cx43 interacts with β-catenin and may form part of the so-called destruction complex. Functionally, Wnt activation increased the rate of wound reepithelization in rat skin in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoming Hou
- Prostate Cancer Research Centre, Division of Surgery, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- Research Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, The Centre for Cell and Molecular Dynamics, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Mohammad R. A. Khan
- Prostate Cancer Research Centre at the Centre for Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, King's College London, Guy's Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Mark Turmaine
- Division of Biosciences, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Christopher Thrasivoulou
- Research Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, The Centre for Cell and Molecular Dynamics, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - David L Becker
- Research Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, The Centre for Cell and Molecular Dynamics, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
- Institute of Medical Biology, A*STAR, Singapore
| | - Aamir Ahmed
- Prostate Cancer Research Centre, Division of Surgery, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- Prostate Cancer Research Centre at the Centre for Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, King's College London, Guy's Hospital, London, United Kingdom
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Ma B, Zhang J, Zhu Z, Zhao A, Zhou Y, Ying H, Zhang Q. Luteolin Ameliorates Testis Injury and Blood–Testis Barrier Disruption through the Nrf2 Signaling Pathway and by Upregulating Cx43. Mol Nutr Food Res 2019; 63:e1800843. [DOI: 10.1002/mnfr.201800843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2018] [Revised: 02/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Bo Ma
- School of Pharmaceutical SciencesNanjing Tech University Nanjing 210009 P. R. China
| | - Jie Zhang
- School of Pharmaceutical SciencesNanjing Tech University Nanjing 210009 P. R. China
| | - Zhiming Zhu
- School of Pharmaceutical SciencesNanjing Tech University Nanjing 210009 P. R. China
| | - Ang Zhao
- School of Pharmaceutical SciencesNanjing Tech University Nanjing 210009 P. R. China
| | - Yanfen Zhou
- School of Pharmaceutical SciencesNanjing Tech University Nanjing 210009 P. R. China
| | - Hanjie Ying
- School of Life Science & Pharmaceutical EngineeringNanjing University of Technology Nanjing 210009 P. R. China
| | - Qi Zhang
- School of Pharmaceutical SciencesNanjing Tech University Nanjing 210009 P. R. China
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Kolasa-Wołosiuk A, Misiakiewicz-Has K, Baranowska-Bosiacka I, Gutowska I, Tarnowski M, Tkacz M, Wiszniewska B. Connexin 43 expression in the testes during postnatal development of finasteride-treated male rat offspring. Arch Med Sci 2018; 14:1471-1479. [PMID: 30393503 PMCID: PMC6209711 DOI: 10.5114/aoms.2016.63022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2016] [Accepted: 08/16/2016] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Hormone-dependent events that occur throughout the first wave of spermatogenesis, such as cellular communication within seminiferous epithelium during early postnatal testis maturation, are important for adult male fertility. Any changes in the T/DHT ratio in male progeny born from females fertilized by finasteride-treated male rats can result in impairment of testicular physiology. The aim of the study was to verify whether finasteride has a transgenerational effect on the expression of connexin 43 (Cx43), a gap junction protein in testes of the F1 generation. MATERIAL AND METHODS The subjects of the study were 7, 14, 21/22, 28, and 90-day-old Wistar male rats born by females fertilized by finasteride-treated rats (F1:Fin). The offspring born by untreated rats were used as controls (F1:Control). Connexin 43 was evaluated in the seminiferous epithelium by immunohistochemistry, and in the testis homogenates by Western blot and qRT-PCR. The Cx43 mRNA and protein expression was correlated with intratesticular levels of T and DHT by Spearman's rank correlation coefficient. RESULTS We observed a difference in the Cx43 expression in the testis of male rats born by female rats fertilized by finasteride-treated male rats, as compared to the control on following PND (7, 22 and 28 PND, p < 0.001; 14 PND, p < 0.01); and a strong, positive correlation between Cx43 with DHT was only in the F1:Fin group (mRNA: rs = +0.51, p = 0.004; protein: rs = +0.54, p = 0.002). CONCLUSIONS Finasteride treatment of male adult rats may cause changes in the communication between the testicular cells of their offspring, leading to a defective course of spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Izabela Gutowska
- Department of Biochemistry and Human Nutrition, Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Maciej Tarnowski
- Department of Physiology, Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Marta Tkacz
- Department of Physiology, Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Barbara Wiszniewska
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, Poland
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Loss of connexin 43 in Sertoli cells provokes postnatal spermatogonial arrest, reduced germ cell numbers and impaired spermatogenesis. Reprod Biol 2018; 18:456-466. [PMID: 30243528 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2018.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2017] [Revised: 07/31/2018] [Accepted: 08/20/2018] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
For the reason that adult Sertoli cell specific connexin 43 knockout (SCCx43KO) mice show arrested spermatogenesis at spermatogonial level or Sertoli cell only tubules and significantly reduced germ cell (GC) numbers, the aims of the present study were (1) to characterize the remaining GC population and (2) to elucidate possible mechanisms of their fading. Apoptosis was analyzed in both, KO and wild type (WT) male littermates during postnatal development and in adulthood using TUNEL. Although GC numbers were significantly reduced in KO at 2 and 8 days postpartum (dpp) when compared to WT, no differences were found concerning apoptotic incidence between genotypes. From 10 dpp, the substantial GC deficiency became more obvious. However, significantly higher apoptotic GC numbers were seen in WT during this period, possibly related to the first wave of spermatogenesis, a known phenomenon in normal pubertal testes associated with increased apoptosis. Characterization of residual spermatogonia in postnatal to adult KO and WT mice was performed by immunohistochemical reaction against VASA (marker of GCs in general), Lin28 and Fox01 (markers for undifferentiated spermatogonia) and Stra8 (marker for differentiating spermatogonia and early spermatocytes). During puberty, the GC component in SCCx43KO mice consisted likely of undifferentiated spermatogonia, few differentiating spermatogonia and very few early spermatocytes, which seemed to be rapidly cleared by apoptosis. In adult KOs, spermatogenesis was arrested at the level of undifferentiated spermatogonia. Overall, our data indicate that Cx43 gap junctions in SCs influence male GC development and differentiation rather than their survival.
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Ghouili F, Roumaud P, Martin LJ. Gja1 expression is regulated by cooperation between SOX8/SOX9 and cJUN transcription factors in TM4 and 15P-1 Sertoli cell lines. Mol Reprod Dev 2018; 85:875-886. [PMID: 30080944 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2018] [Revised: 07/20/2018] [Accepted: 08/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Within the seminiferous tubules of the testis, Gja1-encoded connexin43 plays a critical role in intercellular communication between Sertoli cells. These cells nurture, protect and stimulate the developing germ cells and spermatids. SOX transcription factors are known to play an important role in male fertility and sex determination; however, their physiological function and the identity of their target genes in postnatal Sertoli cells remain to be defined. Members of the activating protein-1 (AP-1) family have been shown to regulate Gja1 expression in myometrial and testicular cells and to physically interact with SOX members, suggesting that these transcription factors may regulate its expression within the testis. Hence, we performed co-transfections of expression plasmids encoding SOX4, SOX8, SOX9 and cJUN with different mouse Gja1 promoter/luciferase reporter constructs within TM4 and 15P-1 Sertoli cells. We showed that a functional cooperation between cJUN and SOX8 or SOX9 regulates Gja1 expression and may involve DNA regulatory elements located between -132 and -26 bp. Such synergy relies on the recruitment of cJUN to the -47 base pair (bp) AP-1 DNA regulatory element of the mouse Gja1 promoter. Hence, SOX and AP-1 members cooperate to regulate Gja1 within testicular Sertoli cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Firas Ghouili
- Biology Department, Université de Moncton, Moncton, New-Brunswick, Canada
| | - Pauline Roumaud
- Biology Department, Université de Moncton, Moncton, New-Brunswick, Canada
| | - Luc J Martin
- Biology Department, Université de Moncton, Moncton, New-Brunswick, Canada
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Shen L, Tang X, Wei Y, Long C, Tan B, Wu S, Sun M, Zhou Y, Cao X, Wei G. Vitamin E and vitamin C attenuate Di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate-induced blood-testis barrier disruption by p38 MAPK in immature SD rats. Reprod Toxicol 2018; 81:17-27. [PMID: 29940330 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2018.06.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2018] [Revised: 06/20/2018] [Accepted: 06/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
As an environmental endocrine disruptor, Di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) affects blood-testis barrier (BTB)-associated proteins expression, which compromises BTB integrity and causes infertility. Notably, DEHP-induced testicular toxicity is related to oxidative stress, but the specific mechanism remains unclear. Therefore, we sought to investigate this mechanism and determine whether vitamin C and vitamin E administration would attenuate the BTB impairment induced by DEHP in vivo and by Mono-(2-Ethylhexyl) Phthalate (MEHP) in vitro, respectively. HE staining and EM found that DEHP exposure led to spermatogenesis dysfunction and BTB disruption, respectively. The Western blot and immunofluorescence results showed that DEHP exposure caused BTB impairment through oxidative stress-mediated p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway. Furthermore, Vitamin E and vitamin C could alleviate the oxidative stress, block DEHP-induced spermatogenesis dysfunction and BTB disruption by inhibiting p38 MAPK signaling pathway. In summary, vitamin E and vitamin C are good candidates for the treatment of DEHP-induced male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lianju Shen
- Pediatric Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, China International Science and Technology Cooperation base of Child development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing, 400014, China
| | - Xiangliang Tang
- Pediatric Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, China International Science and Technology Cooperation base of Child development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing, 400014, China
| | - Yi Wei
- Pediatric Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, China International Science and Technology Cooperation base of Child development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing, 400014, China
| | - Chunlan Long
- Pediatric Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, China International Science and Technology Cooperation base of Child development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing, 400014, China
| | - Bin Tan
- Pediatric Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, China International Science and Technology Cooperation base of Child development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing, 400014, China
| | - Shengde Wu
- Pediatric Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, China International Science and Technology Cooperation base of Child development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing, 400014, China; Department of Pediatric Urology Surgery, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400014, China.
| | - Mang Sun
- Pediatric Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, China International Science and Technology Cooperation base of Child development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing, 400014, China
| | - Yue Zhou
- Pediatric Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, China International Science and Technology Cooperation base of Child development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing, 400014, China
| | - Xining Cao
- Pediatric Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, China International Science and Technology Cooperation base of Child development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing, 400014, China
| | - Guanghui Wei
- Pediatric Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, China International Science and Technology Cooperation base of Child development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing, 400014, China; Department of Pediatric Urology Surgery, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400014, China.
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Hejmej A, Bilinska B. The effects of flutamide on cell-cell junctions in the testis, epididymis, and prostate. Reprod Toxicol 2018; 81:1-16. [PMID: 29958919 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2018.06.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2018] [Revised: 06/15/2018] [Accepted: 06/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
In this review, we summarize recent findings on the effect of the anti-androgen flutamide on cell-cell junctions in the male reproductive system. We outline developmental aspects of flutamide action on the testis, epididymis, and prostate, and describe changes in junction protein expression and organization of junctional complexes in the adult boar following prenatal and postnatal exposure. We also discuss findings on the mechanisms by which flutamide induces alterations in cell-cell junctions in reproductive tissues of adult males, with special emphasis on cytoplasmic effects. Based on the results from in vivo and in vitro studies in the rat, we propose that flutamide affects the expression of junction proteins and junction complex structure not only by inhibiting androgen receptor activity, but equally important by modulating protein kinase-dependent signaling in testicular cells. Additionally, results from studies on prostate cancer cell lines point to a role for the cellular molecular outfit in response to flutamide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Hejmej
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
| | - Barbara Bilinska
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland.
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Hollenbach J, Jung K, Noelke J, Gasse H, Pfarrer C, Koy M, Brehm R. Loss of connexin43 in murine Sertoli cells and its effect on blood-testis barrier formation and dynamics. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0198100. [PMID: 29856785 PMCID: PMC5983412 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0198100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2017] [Accepted: 05/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Connexin43 (Cx43) is the predominant testicular gap junction protein and in cases of impaired spermatogenesis, Cx43 expression has been shown to be altered in several mammals. Amongst other functions, Cx43 is supposed to regulate junction formation of the blood-testis barrier (BTB). The aim of the present study was to investigate the expression pattern of different tight junction (TJ) proteins of the murine BTB using SC-specific Cx43 knockout mice (SCCx43KO). Adult homozygous male SCCx43KO mice (SCCx43KO-/-) predominantly show an arrest of spermatogenesis and SC-only tubules that might have been caused by an altered BTB assembly, composition or regulation. TJ molecules claudin-3, -5 and -11 were examined in adult wild type (WT) and SCCx43KO-/- mice using immunohistochemistry (IHC) and quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). In this context, investigation of single tubules with residual spermatogenesis in SCCx43KO-/- mice was particularly interesting to identify a potential Cx43-independent influence of germ cells (GC) on BTB composition and dynamics. In tubules without residual spermatogenesis, a diffuse cytoplasmic distribution pattern for claudin-11 protein could be demonstrated in mutant mice. Nevertheless, claudin-11 seems to form functional TJ. Claudin-3 and -5 could not be detected immunohistochemically in the seminiferous epithelium of those tubules. Correspondingly, claudin-3 and -5 mRNA expression was decreased, providing evidence of generally impaired BTB dynamics in adult KO mice. Observations of tubules with residual spermatogenesis suggested a Cx43-independent regulation of TJ proteins by GC populations. To determine initial BTB formation in peripubertal SCCx43KO-/- mice, immunohistochemical staining and qRT-PCR of claudin-11 were carried out in adolescent SCCx43KO-/- and WT mice. Additionally, BTB integrity was functionally analysed using a hypertonic glucose fixative. These analyses revealed that SCCx43KO-/- mice formed an intact BTB during puberty in the same time period as WT mice, which however seemed to be accelerated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Hollenbach
- Institute for Anatomy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - Klaus Jung
- Institute for Animal Breeding and Genetics, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - Joanna Noelke
- Institute for Anatomy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - Hagen Gasse
- Institute for Anatomy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - Christiane Pfarrer
- Institute for Anatomy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - Mirja Koy
- Institute for Immunology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - Ralph Brehm
- Institute for Anatomy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany
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30
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Inhibition of Cx43 gap junction uncoupling prevents high glucose-induced apoptosis and reduces excess cell monolayer permeability in retinal vascular endothelial cells. Exp Eye Res 2018; 173:85-90. [PMID: 29750972 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2018.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2017] [Revised: 03/30/2018] [Accepted: 05/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate whether inhibition of connexin 43 gap junction-uncoupling is sufficient to prevent retinal vascular cell loss under high glucose condition and reduce cell monolayer permeability. Rat retinal endothelial cells were grown for 3, 5, and 7 days in normal (5 mM) or high glucose (30 mM) medium; in parallel, cells grown in high glucose medium were exposed for 3, 5, and 7 days to 100 nM danegaptide, which stabilizes connexin 43-mediated cell coupling. Additionally, cells grown in normal medium were treated with a connexin 43 blocker as a negative control. To determine gap junction intercellular communication, scrape load dye transfer assay was performed at the three time points. Cells were assessed for apoptosis and cell monolayer permeability by differential dye staining and in vitro permeability assays, respectively. Cells treated with danegaptide preserved gap junction intercellular communication, decreased cell death, and reduced cell monolayer permeability. Scrape load dye transfer assay indicated that cells exposed to danegaptide for 3, 5, and 7 days under high glucose condition maintained gap junction intercellular communication. Importantly, danegaptide significantly prevented high glucose-induced apoptosis at all three time points, and inhibited cell monolayer permeability by day 5. Cells exposed to a connexin 43 blocker, which decreased cell coupling, showed excess apoptosis and cell monolayer permeability. These findings suggest that prevention of high glucose-induced compromised cell-cell coupling may be a useful strategy for inhibiting apoptosis and excess vascular permeability associated with diabetic retinopathy.
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Ji X, Chou X, Ge Z, Ding F, Gao H, Wu Q. Benzo[a
]pyrene-decreased gap junctional intercellular communication via calcium/calmodulin signaling increases apoptosis in TM4 cells. J Appl Toxicol 2018; 38:1091-1103. [DOI: 10.1002/jat.3618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2017] [Revised: 02/07/2018] [Accepted: 02/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoli Ji
- School of Public Health; Fudan University and Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety, Ministry of Education; 130 Dong An Road Shanghai 200032 China
| | - Xin Chou
- School of Public Health; Fudan University and Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety, Ministry of Education; 130 Dong An Road Shanghai 200032 China
| | - Zehe Ge
- School of Public Health; Fudan University and Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety, Ministry of Education; 130 Dong An Road Shanghai 200032 China
| | - Fan Ding
- School of Public Health; Fudan University and Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety, Ministry of Education; 130 Dong An Road Shanghai 200032 China
| | - Hui Gao
- School of Public Health; Fudan University and Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety, Ministry of Education; 130 Dong An Road Shanghai 200032 China
| | - Qing Wu
- School of Public Health; Fudan University and Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety, Ministry of Education; 130 Dong An Road Shanghai 200032 China
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32
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Rondanino C, Maouche A, Dumont L, Oblette A, Rives N. Establishment, maintenance and functional integrity of the blood-testis barrier in organotypic cultures of fresh and frozen/thawed prepubertal mouse testes. Mol Hum Reprod 2018; 23:304-320. [PMID: 28333312 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gax017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2016] [Accepted: 03/13/2017] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Can the spatio-temporal formation of an intact blood-testis barrier (BTB), which is essential for the progression of spermatogenesis, be reproduced in cultures of fresh or frozen/thawed prepubertal mouse testes? SUMMARY ANSWER Organotypic cultures allow the establishment and maintenance of major BTB components and the formation of a functional BTB in mouse testicular tissues. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY In vitro maturation of prepubertal testicular tissues is a promising approach to restore fertility in adult survivors of childhood cancer. Although gametes can be successfully obtained from prepubertal mouse testes in organotypic cultures, the spermatogenic yield remains low compared to in vivo controls. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Mouse testicular tissues were frozen using controlled slow freezing (CSF) or solid surface vitrification (SSV) procedures. A total of 158 testes (fresh n = 58, CSF n = 58 or SSV n = 42) from 6 to 7 days postpartum (dpp) mice were cultured at 34°C in basal medium (α-MEM, 10% KnockOut Serum Replacement, 5 μg/ml gentamicin) at a gas-liquid interphase (under 20% O2), with or without 10-6 M retinol, for 9, 16 and 30 days. In addition, 32 testes from 6-7, 15-16, 22-23 and 36-37 dpp mice were used as in vivo controls. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS The mRNA levels of BTB genes (Claudin 3, Claudin 11, Zonula occludens 1 and Connexin-43), germ cell-specific genes (Sal-like protein 4, Kit oncogene, Stimulated by retinoic acid gene 8, Synaptonemal complex protein 3, Transition protein 1 and Protamine 2), markers of Sertoli cell immaturity/maturity (anti-Mullerian hormone, androgen receptor, cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor 1b) and the androgen-regulated gene Reproductive homeobox 5 (Rhox5) were measured by quantitative RT-PCR (RT-qPCR). The localization of BTB proteins in seminiferous tubules was studied by immunohistochemistry and spermatogenic progression was evaluated histologically. The integrity of the BTB was assessed using a biotin tracer. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Modest differences in Claudin 11 (Cldn11), Zonula occludens 1 (Zo-1), Connexin-43 (Cx43) transcript levels and in the localization of the corresponding proteins were found between in vitro cultures of fresh or frozen/thawed testes and in vivo controls (P < 0.05). However, a 32-77-fold decrease in Claudin 3 (Cldn3) mRNA levels and a lack of CLDN3 immunolabelling in 36-44% of seminiferous tubules were observed in 30-day organotypic cultures (P < 0.05). Although Sertoli cell maturation and the completion of a full spermatogenic cycle were achieved after 30 days of culture, meiotic and postmeiotic progression was altered in cultured testicular tissues (P < 0.05). Moreover, an increased BTB permeability and a decreased expression of Rhox5 were observed at the end of the culture period in comparison with in vivo controls (P < 0.05). Completion of spermatogenesis occurred in vitro in seminiferous tubules with an intact BTB, and in those expressing or lacking CLDN3. LARGE SCALE DATA None. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Further studies will be needed to determine whether the expression of other BTB components is altered and to decipher the reason for lower Cldn3 and Rhox5 mRNA levels in organotypic cultures. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS This work contributes to a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms occurring in in vitro matured prepubertal testes. The organotypic culture system will have to be developed further and optimized for human tissue, before potential clinical applications can be envisaged. STUDY FUNDING AND COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was supported by Rouen University Hospital, Ligue contre le Cancer (to L.D.), and co-supported by European Union and Région Normandie (to A.O.). Europe gets involved in Normandie with European Régional Development Fund (ERDF). The authors declare that they have no conflict of interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Rondanino
- Normandie Univ, UNIROUEN, EA 4308 'Gametogenesis and Gamete Quality', Rouen University Hospital, Department of Reproductive Biology-CECOS, F 76000 Rouen, France
| | - A Maouche
- Normandie Univ, UNIROUEN, EA 4308 'Gametogenesis and Gamete Quality', Rouen University Hospital, Department of Reproductive Biology-CECOS, F 76000 Rouen, France
| | - L Dumont
- Normandie Univ, UNIROUEN, EA 4308 'Gametogenesis and Gamete Quality', Rouen University Hospital, Department of Reproductive Biology-CECOS, F 76000 Rouen, France
| | - A Oblette
- Normandie Univ, UNIROUEN, EA 4308 'Gametogenesis and Gamete Quality', Rouen University Hospital, Department of Reproductive Biology-CECOS, F 76000 Rouen, France
| | - N Rives
- Normandie Univ, UNIROUEN, EA 4308 'Gametogenesis and Gamete Quality', Rouen University Hospital, Department of Reproductive Biology-CECOS, F 76000 Rouen, France
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Durand P, Martin G, Blondet A, Gilleron J, Carette D, Janczarski S, Christin E, Pointis G, Perrard MH. Effects of low doses of carbendazim or iprodione either separately or in mixture on the pubertal rat seminiferous epithelium: An ex vivo study. Toxicol In Vitro 2017; 45:366-373. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tiv.2017.05.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2016] [Revised: 04/18/2017] [Accepted: 05/29/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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Pelz L, Purfürst B, Rathjen FG. The cell adhesion molecule BT-IgSF is essential for a functional blood-testis barrier and male fertility in mice. J Biol Chem 2017; 292:21490-21503. [PMID: 29123028 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.ra117.000113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2017] [Revised: 11/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The Ig-like cell adhesion molecule (IgCAM) BT-IgSF (brain- and testis-specific Ig superfamily protein) plays a major role in male fertility in mice. However, the molecular mechanism by which BT-IgSF supports fertility is unclear. Here, we found that it is localized in Sertoli cells at the blood-testis barrier (BTB) and at the apical ectoplasmic specialization. The absence of BT-IgSF in Sertoli cells in both global and conditional mouse mutants (i.e. AMHCre and Rosa26CreERT2 lines) resulted in male infertility, atrophic testes with vacuolation, azoospermia, and spermatogenesis arrest. Although transcripts of junctional proteins such as connexin43, ZO-1, occludin, and claudin11 were up-regulated in the absence of BT-IgSF, the functional integrity of the BTB was impaired, as revealed by injection of a BTB-impermeable component into the testes under in vivo conditions. Disruption of the BTB coincided with mislocalization of connexin43, which was present throughout the seminiferous epithelium and not restricted to the BTB as in wild-type tissues, suggesting impaired cell-cell communication in the BT-IgSF-KO mice. Because EM images revealed a normal BTB structure between Sertoli cells in the BT-IgSF-KO mice, we conclude that infertility in these mice is most likely caused by a functionally impaired BTB. In summary, our results indicate that BT-IgSF is expressed at the BTB and is required for male fertility by supporting the functional integrity of the BTB.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Bettina Purfürst
- the Core Facility for Electron Microscopy, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, Helmholtz Association, D-13092 Berlin, Germany
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Ghouili F, Martin LJ. Cooperative regulation of Gja1 expression by members of the AP-1 family cJun and cFos in TM3 Leydig and TM4 Sertoli cells. Gene 2017; 635:24-32. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2017.09.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2017] [Revised: 08/28/2017] [Accepted: 09/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
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沈 炼, 唐 向, 龙 春, 曹 希, 魏 仪, 王 养, 孙 茫, 周 玥, 刘 洋, 刘 博, 黄 方, 魏 光. [Effect of Di-(2-ethylhcxyl) phthalate exposure on blood-testis barrier integrity in rats]. NAN FANG YI KE DA XUE XUE BAO = JOURNAL OF SOUTHERN MEDICAL UNIVERSITY 2017; 37:1178-1182. [PMID: 28951358 PMCID: PMC6765501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate mechanism of di-(2-ethylhcxyl)phthalate (DEHP) exposure in causing blood-testis barrier (BTB) impairment in rats. METHODS Two-months-old male SD rats were randomly divided into corn oil control group and DEHP (750 mg/kg) exposure group for daily intragastic treatment for 30 consecutive days. After the treatments the rats were examined for histomorphological changes of the testicle using HE staining and the expressions of the junction proteins N-cadherin β-catenin, occludin and connexin43 of the BTB using Western blot. In the in vitro study, the vitality and ROS generation level in Sertoli cells exposed to different concentrations of DEHP were examined with MTT and ROS assay kits, respectively, and Nrf2 and p-p38 expressions were detected with Western blot. RESULTS Compared with the control group, the rats with DEHP exposure showed structural damage of the seminiferous tubule and polarity loss of the spermatids. DEHP exposure caused significantly decreased expressions of occludin and connexin43 but increased expressions of N-cadherin and β-catenin in the testicle tissues of the rats (P<0.05). The vitality of Sertoli cells was obviously decreased and ROS level increased significantly after exposure of the cells to increasing concentrations of DEHP, which also resulted in significantly up-regulated Nrf2 and p-p38 expressions (P<0.05). CONCLUSIONS DEHP exposure causes increased oxidative stress in the Sertoli cells of the testis, activates p38 MAPK signaling pathway, and results eventually in impaired spermatogenesis in rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- 炼桔 沈
- />重庆医科大学附属儿童医院儿科研究所//儿童泌尿生殖发育与组织工程重庆市重点实验室//儿童发育疾病研究教育部重点实验室//儿童发育重大疾病国家国际科技合作基地//儿科学重庆市重点实验室,重庆 400014Department of Pediatric Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Child Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation base of Child development and Critical Disorders; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics Chongqing, 400014, China
| | - 向亮 唐
- />重庆医科大学附属儿童医院儿科研究所//儿童泌尿生殖发育与组织工程重庆市重点实验室//儿童发育疾病研究教育部重点实验室//儿童发育重大疾病国家国际科技合作基地//儿科学重庆市重点实验室,重庆 400014Department of Pediatric Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Child Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation base of Child development and Critical Disorders; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics Chongqing, 400014, China
| | - 春兰 龙
- />重庆医科大学附属儿童医院儿科研究所//儿童泌尿生殖发育与组织工程重庆市重点实验室//儿童发育疾病研究教育部重点实验室//儿童发育重大疾病国家国际科技合作基地//儿科学重庆市重点实验室,重庆 400014Department of Pediatric Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Child Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation base of Child development and Critical Disorders; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics Chongqing, 400014, China
| | - 希宁 曹
- />重庆医科大学附属儿童医院儿科研究所//儿童泌尿生殖发育与组织工程重庆市重点实验室//儿童发育疾病研究教育部重点实验室//儿童发育重大疾病国家国际科技合作基地//儿科学重庆市重点实验室,重庆 400014Department of Pediatric Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Child Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation base of Child development and Critical Disorders; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics Chongqing, 400014, China
| | - 仪 魏
- />重庆医科大学附属儿童医院儿科研究所//儿童泌尿生殖发育与组织工程重庆市重点实验室//儿童发育疾病研究教育部重点实验室//儿童发育重大疾病国家国际科技合作基地//儿科学重庆市重点实验室,重庆 400014Department of Pediatric Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Child Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation base of Child development and Critical Disorders; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics Chongqing, 400014, China
| | - 养才 王
- />重庆医科大学附属儿童医院儿科研究所//儿童泌尿生殖发育与组织工程重庆市重点实验室//儿童发育疾病研究教育部重点实验室//儿童发育重大疾病国家国际科技合作基地//儿科学重庆市重点实验室,重庆 400014Department of Pediatric Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Child Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation base of Child development and Critical Disorders; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics Chongqing, 400014, China
| | - 茫 孙
- />重庆医科大学附属儿童医院儿科研究所//儿童泌尿生殖发育与组织工程重庆市重点实验室//儿童发育疾病研究教育部重点实验室//儿童发育重大疾病国家国际科技合作基地//儿科学重庆市重点实验室,重庆 400014Department of Pediatric Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Child Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation base of Child development and Critical Disorders; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics Chongqing, 400014, China
| | - 玥 周
- />重庆医科大学附属儿童医院儿科研究所//儿童泌尿生殖发育与组织工程重庆市重点实验室//儿童发育疾病研究教育部重点实验室//儿童发育重大疾病国家国际科技合作基地//儿科学重庆市重点实验室,重庆 400014Department of Pediatric Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Child Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation base of Child development and Critical Disorders; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics Chongqing, 400014, China
| | - 洋 刘
- />重庆医科大学附属儿童医院儿科研究所//儿童泌尿生殖发育与组织工程重庆市重点实验室//儿童发育疾病研究教育部重点实验室//儿童发育重大疾病国家国际科技合作基地//儿科学重庆市重点实验室,重庆 400014Department of Pediatric Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Child Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation base of Child development and Critical Disorders; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics Chongqing, 400014, China
| | - 博 刘
- />重庆医科大学附属儿童医院儿科研究所//儿童泌尿生殖发育与组织工程重庆市重点实验室//儿童发育疾病研究教育部重点实验室//儿童发育重大疾病国家国际科技合作基地//儿科学重庆市重点实验室,重庆 400014Department of Pediatric Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Child Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation base of Child development and Critical Disorders; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics Chongqing, 400014, China
| | - 方圆 黄
- />重庆医科大学附属儿童医院儿科研究所//儿童泌尿生殖发育与组织工程重庆市重点实验室//儿童发育疾病研究教育部重点实验室//儿童发育重大疾病国家国际科技合作基地//儿科学重庆市重点实验室,重庆 400014Department of Pediatric Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Child Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation base of Child development and Critical Disorders; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics Chongqing, 400014, China
| | - 光辉 魏
- />重庆医科大学附属儿童医院儿科研究所//儿童泌尿生殖发育与组织工程重庆市重点实验室//儿童发育疾病研究教育部重点实验室//儿童发育重大疾病国家国际科技合作基地//儿科学重庆市重点实验室,重庆 400014Department of Pediatric Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Child Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation base of Child development and Critical Disorders; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics Chongqing, 400014, China
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Sen Sharma S, Majumdar SS. Transcriptional co-activator YAP regulates cAMP signaling in Sertoli cells. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2017; 450:64-73. [PMID: 28428044 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2017.04.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2016] [Revised: 03/14/2017] [Accepted: 04/15/2017] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
FSH mediated cyclic AMP (cAMP) signaling is crucial for function of testicular Sertoli cells (Sc) during puberty. Yes-kinase Associated Protein (YAP), a transcriptional co-activator, regulates cell proliferation and differentiation. However, its role in testicular function is not known. In present study, we have identified YAP as an important regulator of cAMP signaling in Sc, in-vitro. Verteporfin, a YAP-inhibitor, down regulated the expression of cAMP responsive genes necessary for spermatogenesis in Sc. Action of forskolin, which acts via cAMP, was also antagonized by verteporfin, limiting expression of these genes. Assessment of cAMP-responsive-element-binding-protein (CREB) phosphorylation revealed that verteporfin augmented the phosphorylation of CREB at Ser133 residue. This effect of verteporfin on CREB phosphorylation was attenuated by H-89, the PKA inhibitor. This clearly suggested involvement of PKA in verteporfin mediated CREB phosphorylation. We provided evidence for the first time that YAP modulates cAMP signaling in Sc which may be critical for testicular function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Souvik Sen Sharma
- Cellular Endocrinology Lab, National Institute of Immunology, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi, India.
| | - Subeer S Majumdar
- Cellular Endocrinology Lab, National Institute of Immunology, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi, India; National Institute of Animal Biotechnology, Hyderabad, India.
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Wen Q, Tang EI, Gao Y, Jesus TT, Chu DS, Lee WM, Wong CKC, Liu YX, Xiao X, Silvestrini B, Cheng CY. Signaling pathways regulating blood-tissue barriers - Lesson from the testis. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-BIOMEMBRANES 2017; 1860:141-153. [PMID: 28450047 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamem.2017.04.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2017] [Revised: 04/18/2017] [Accepted: 04/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Signaling pathways that regulate blood-tissue barriers are important for studying the biology of various blood-tissue barriers. This information, if deciphered and better understood, will provide better therapeutic management of diseases particularly in organs that are sealed by the corresponding blood-tissue barriers from systemic circulation, such as the brain and the testis. These barriers block the access of antibiotics and/or chemotherapeutical agents across the corresponding barriers. Studies in the last decade using the blood-testis barrier (BTB) in rats have demonstrated the presence of several signaling pathways that are crucial to modulate BTB function. Herein, we critically evaluate these findings and provide hypothetical models regarding the underlying mechanisms by which these signaling molecules/pathways modulate BTB dynamics. This information should be carefully evaluated to examine their applicability in other tissue barriers which shall benefit future functional studies in the field. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Gap Junction Proteins edited by Jean Claude Herve.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Wen
- The Mary M. Woldford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, 1230 York Ave, New York, NY 10065, United States
| | - Elizabeth I Tang
- The Mary M. Woldford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, 1230 York Ave, New York, NY 10065, United States
| | - Ying Gao
- The Mary M. Woldford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, 1230 York Ave, New York, NY 10065, United States
| | - Tito T Jesus
- The Mary M. Woldford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, 1230 York Ave, New York, NY 10065, United States
| | - Darren S Chu
- The Mary M. Woldford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, 1230 York Ave, New York, NY 10065, United States
| | - Will M Lee
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Chris K C Wong
- Department of Biology, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yi-Xun Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xiang Xiao
- Department of Reproductive Physiology, Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences, Hangzhou 310013, Zhejiang, China
| | | | - C Yan Cheng
- The Mary M. Woldford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, 1230 York Ave, New York, NY 10065, United States.
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McCabe MJ, Foo CF, Dinger ME, Smooker PM, Stanton PG. Claudin-11 and occludin are major contributors to Sertoli cell tight junction function, in vitro. Asian J Androl 2017; 18:620-6. [PMID: 26585695 PMCID: PMC4955190 DOI: 10.4103/1008-682x.163189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The Sertoli cell tight junction (TJ) is the key component of the blood-testis barrier, where it sequesters developing germ cells undergoing spermatogenesis within the seminiferous tubules. Hormonally regulated claudin-11 is a critical transmembrane protein involved in barrier function and its murine knockout results in infertility. We aimed to assess quantitatively the significance of the contribution of claudin-11 to TJ function, in vitro, using siRNA-mediated gene silencing. We also conducted an analysis of the contribution of occludin, another intrinsic transmembrane protein of the TJ. Silencing of claudin-11 and/or occludin was conducted using siRNA in an immature rat Sertoli cell culture model. Transepithelial electrical resistance was used to assess quantitatively TJ function throughout the culture. Two days after siRNA treatment, cells were fixed for immunocytochemical localization of junction proteins or lyzed for RT-PCR assessment of mRNA expression. Silencing of claudin-11, occludin, or both resulted in significant decreases in TJ function of 55% (P < 0.01), 51% (P < 0.01), and 62% (P < 0.01), respectively. Data were concomitant with significant decreases in mRNA expression and marked reductions in the localization of targeted proteins to the Sertoli cell TJ. We provide quantitative evidence that claudin-11 contributes significantly (P < 0.01) to Sertoli cell TJ function in vitro. Interestingly, occludin, which is hormonally regulated but not implicated in infertility until late adulthood, is also a significant (P < 0.01) contributor to barrier function. Our data are consistent with in vivo studies that clearly demonstrate a role for these proteins in maintaining normal TJ barrier structure and function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark J McCabe
- Male Fertility Regulation Laboratory, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Monash Medical Centre, Clayton, Victoria 3168; School of Applied Sciences, Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology University, Bundoora, Victoria 3088; Kinghorn Centre for Clinical Genomics, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Darlinghurst, New South Wales 2010; St Vincent's Clinical School, UNSW, Sydney, New South Wales 2052, Australia
| | - Caroline Fh Foo
- Male Fertility Regulation Laboratory, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Monash Medical Centre, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia
| | - Marcel E Dinger
- Kinghorn Centre for Clinical Genomics, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Darlinghurst, New South Wales 2010; St Vincent's Clinical School, UNSW, Sydney, New South Wales 2052, Australia
| | - Peter M Smooker
- School of Applied Sciences, Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology University, Bundoora, Victoria 3088, Australia
| | - Peter G Stanton
- Male Fertility Regulation Laboratory, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Monash Medical Centre, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia
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Wittmann A, Grimm MOW, Scherthan H, Horsch M, Beckers J, Fuchs H, Gailus-Durner V, Hrabě de Angelis M, Ford SJ, Burton NC, Razansky D, Trümbach D, Aichler M, Walch AK, Calzada-Wack J, Neff F, Wurst W, Hartmann T, Floss T. Sphingomyelin Synthase 1 Is Essential for Male Fertility in Mice. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0164298. [PMID: 27788151 PMCID: PMC5082796 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0164298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2016] [Accepted: 09/22/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Sphingolipids and the derived gangliosides have critical functions in spermatogenesis, thus mutations in genes involved in sphingolipid biogenesis are often associated with male infertility. We have generated a transgenic mouse line carrying an insertion in the sphingomyelin synthase gene Sms1, the enzyme which generates sphingomyelin species in the Golgi apparatus. We describe the spermatogenesis defect of Sms1-/- mice, which is characterized by sloughing of spermatocytes and spermatids, causing progressive infertility of male homozygotes. Lipid profiling revealed a reduction in several long chain unsaturated phosphatidylcholins, lysophosphatidylcholins and sphingolipids in the testes of mutants. Multi-Spectral Optoacoustic Tomography indicated blood-testis barrier dysfunction. A supplementary diet of the essential omega-3 docosahexaenoic acid and eicosapentaenoic acid diminished germ cell sloughing from the seminiferous epithelium and restored spermatogenesis and fertility in 50% of previously infertile mutants. Our findings indicate that SMS1 has a wider than anticipated role in testis polyunsaturated fatty acid homeostasis and for male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anke Wittmann
- Helmholtz Zentrum München, Institute of Developmental Genetics, Ingolstädter Landstrasse 1, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Marcus O. W. Grimm
- Saarland University, Experimentelle Neurologie, 66424 Homburg/Saar; Germany
| | - Harry Scherthan
- Institut für Radiobiologie der Bundeswehr in Verb. mit der Univ. Ulm, 80937 Munich, Germany
| | - Marion Horsch
- Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Mouse Clinic, Institute of Experimental Genetics, Ingolstädter Landstrasse 1, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Johannes Beckers
- Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Mouse Clinic, Institute of Experimental Genetics, Ingolstädter Landstrasse 1, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
- Technische Universität München, Co Helmholtz-Zentrum München
| | - Helmut Fuchs
- Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Mouse Clinic, Institute of Experimental Genetics, Ingolstädter Landstrasse 1, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Valerie Gailus-Durner
- Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Mouse Clinic, Institute of Experimental Genetics, Ingolstädter Landstrasse 1, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Martin Hrabě de Angelis
- Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Mouse Clinic, Institute of Experimental Genetics, Ingolstädter Landstrasse 1, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
- Technische Universität München, Co Helmholtz-Zentrum München
| | - Steven J. Ford
- Institute for Biological and Medical Imaging, Helmholtz Zentrum München and Technische Universität München, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Neal C. Burton
- Institute for Biological and Medical Imaging, Helmholtz Zentrum München and Technische Universität München, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Daniel Razansky
- Institute for Biological and Medical Imaging, Helmholtz Zentrum München and Technische Universität München, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Dietrich Trümbach
- Helmholtz Zentrum München, Institute of Developmental Genetics, Ingolstädter Landstrasse 1, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Michaela Aichler
- Helmholtz Zentrum München, Research Unit Analytical Pathology, Institute of Pathology, Ingolstädter Landstraße 1, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Axel Karl Walch
- Helmholtz Zentrum München, Research Unit Analytical Pathology, Institute of Pathology, Ingolstädter Landstraße 1, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Julia Calzada-Wack
- Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Mouse Clinic, Institute of Pathology, Ingolstädter Landstrasse 1, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Frauke Neff
- Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Mouse Clinic, Institute of Pathology, Ingolstädter Landstrasse 1, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Wurst
- Helmholtz Zentrum München, Institute of Developmental Genetics, Ingolstädter Landstrasse 1, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
- Technische Universität München, Co Helmholtz-Zentrum München
- Deutsches Zentrum für Neurodegenerative Erkrankungen e.V. (DZNE), Site Munich, Schillerstrasse 44, 80336 München, Germany
- Max-Planck-Institute of Psychiatry, Kraepelinstr. 2–10, 80804 München, Germany
| | - Tobias Hartmann
- Saarland University, Experimentelle Neurologie, 66424 Homburg/Saar; Germany
| | - Thomas Floss
- Helmholtz Zentrum München, Institute of Developmental Genetics, Ingolstädter Landstrasse 1, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
- Technische Universität München, Co Helmholtz-Zentrum München
- * E-mail:
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41
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Soon ASC, Chua JW, Becker DL. Connexins in endothelial barrier function - novel therapeutic targets countering vascular hyperpermeability. Thromb Haemost 2016; 116:852-867. [PMID: 27488046 DOI: 10.1160/th16-03-0210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2016] [Accepted: 07/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Prolonged vascular hyperpermeability is a common feature of many diseases. Vascular hyperpermeability is typically associated with changes in the expression patterns of adherens and tight junction proteins. Here, we focus on the less-appreciated contribution of gap junction proteins (connexins) to basal vascular permeability and endothelial dysfunction. First, we assess the association of connexins with endothelial barrier integrity by introducing tools used in connexin biology and relating the findings to customary readouts in vascular biology. Second, we explore potential mechanistic ties between connexins and junction regulation. Third, we review the role of connexins in microvascular organisation and development, focusing on interactions of the endothelium with mural cells and tissue-specific perivascular cells. Last, we see how connexins contribute to the interactions between the endothelium and components of the immune system, by using neutrophils as an example. Mounting evidence of crosstalk between connexins and other junction proteins suggests that we rethink the way in which different junction components contribute to endothelial barrier function. Given the multiple points of connexin-mediated communication arising from the endothelium, there is great potential for synergism between connexin-targeted inhibitors and existing immune-targeted therapeutics. As more drugs targeting connexins progress through clinical trials, it is hoped that some might prove effective at countering vascular hyperpermeability.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - David Laurence Becker
- David L. Becker, PhD, Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, 11 Mandalay Road, 308232 Singapore, Tel: +65 6592 3961, Fax: +65 6515 0417, E-mail:
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42
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Rescue of perfluorooctanesulfonate (PFOS)-mediated Sertoli cell injury by overexpression of gap junction protein connexin 43. Sci Rep 2016; 6:29667. [PMID: 27436542 PMCID: PMC4951654 DOI: 10.1038/srep29667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2016] [Accepted: 06/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Perfluorooctanesulfonate (PFOS) is an environmental toxicant used in developing countries, including China, as a stain repellent for clothing, carpets and draperies, but it has been banned in the U.S. and Canada since the late 2000s. PFOS perturbed the Sertoli cell tight junction (TJ)-permeability barrier, causing disruption of actin microfilaments in cell cytosol, perturbing the localization of cell junction proteins (e.g., occluden-ZO-1, N-cadherin-ß-catenin). These changes destabilized Sertoli cell blood-testis barrier (BTB) integrity. These findings suggest that human exposure to PFOS might induce BTB dysfunction and infertility. Interestingly, PFOS-induced Sertoli cell injury associated with a down-regulation of the gap junction (GJ) protein connexin43 (Cx43). We next investigated if overexpression of Cx43 in Sertoli cells could rescue the PFOS-induced cell injury. Indeed, overexpression of Cx43 in Sertoli cells with an established TJ-barrier blocked the disruption in PFOS-induced GJ-intercellular communication, resulting in the re-organization of actin microfilaments, which rendered them similar to those in control cells. Furthermore, cell adhesion proteins that utilized F-actin for attachment became properly distributed at the cell-cell interface, resealing the disrupted TJ-barrier. In summary, Cx43 is a good target that might be used to manage PFOS-induced reproductive dysfunction.
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43
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Boyer A, Girard M, Thimmanahalli DS, Levasseur A, Céleste C, Paquet M, Duggavathi R, Boerboom D. mTOR Regulates Gap Junction Alpha-1 Protein Trafficking in Sertoli Cells and Is Required for the Maintenance of Spermatogenesis in Mice. Biol Reprod 2016; 95:13. [PMID: 27281705 PMCID: PMC5029431 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.115.138016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2015] [Revised: 02/14/2016] [Accepted: 05/17/2016] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The mammalian target of rapamycin (Mtor) gene encodes a serine/threonine kinase that acts as a master regulator of processes as diverse as cell growth, protein synthesis, cytoskeleton reorganization, and cell survival. In the testis, physiological roles for Mtor have been proposed in perinatal Sertoli cell proliferation and blood-testis barrier (BTB) remodeling during spermatogenesis, but no in vivo studies of Mtor function have been reported. Here, we used a conditional knockout approach to target Mtor in Sertoli cells. The resulting Mtor(flox/flox); Amhr2(cre/+) mice were characterized by progressive, adult-onset testicular atrophy associated with disorganization of the seminiferous epithelium, loss of Sertoli cell polarity, increased germ cell apoptosis, premature release of germ cells, decreased epididymal sperm counts, increased sperm abnormalities, and infertility. Histopathologic analysis and quantification of the expression of stage-specific markers showed a specific loss of pachytene spermatocytes and spermatids. Although the BTB and the ectoplasmic specializations did not appear to be altered in Mtor(flox/flox);Amhr2(cre/+) mice, a dramatic redistribution of gap junction alpha-1 (GJA1) was detected in their Sertoli cells. Phosphorylation of GJA1 at Ser373, which is associated with its internalization, was increased in the testes of Mtor(flox/flox); Amhr2(cre/+) mice, as was the expression and phosphorylation of AKT, which phosphorylates GJA1 at this site. Together, these results indicate that Mtor expression in Sertoli cells is required for the maintenance of spermatogenesis and the progression of germ cell development through the pachytene spermatocyte stage. One mechanism of mTOR action may be to regulate gap junction dynamics by inhibiting AKT, thereby decreasing GJA1 phosphorylation and internalization. mTOR regulates gap junction alpha-1 protein distribution in Sertoli cells and is necessary for progression through the pachytene spermatocyte stage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandre Boyer
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction Animale, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Meggie Girard
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction Animale, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | | | - Adrien Levasseur
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction Animale, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Christophe Céleste
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction Animale, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Marilène Paquet
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction Animale, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Rajesha Duggavathi
- Department of Animal Science, McGill University, Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue, Québec, Canada
| | - Derek Boerboom
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction Animale, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
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44
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Zhang J, Li Z, Qie M, Zheng R, Shetty J, Wang J. Sodium fluoride and sulfur dioxide affected male reproduction by disturbing blood-testis barrier in mice. Food Chem Toxicol 2016; 94:103-11. [PMID: 27237588 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2016.05.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2016] [Revised: 05/21/2016] [Accepted: 05/24/2016] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Fluoride and sulfur dioxide (SO2), two well-known environmental toxicants, have been implicated to have adverse effects on male reproductive health in humans and animals. The objective of this study to investigate if the BTB is one of the pathways that lead to reproductive toxicity of sodium fluoride and sulfur dioxide alone or in combination, in view of the key role of blood testis barrier (BTB) in testis. The results showed that a marked decrease in sperm quality, and altered morphology and ultrastructure of BTB in testis of mice exposure to fluoride (100 mg NaF/L in drinking water) or/and sulfur dioxide (28 mg SO2/m(3), 3 h/day). Meanwhile, the mRNA expression levels of some vital BTB-associated proteins, including occluding, claudin-11, ZO-1, Ncadherin, α-catenin, and connexin-43 were all strikingly reduced after NaF exposure, although only the reduction of DSG-2 was statistically significant in all treatment groups. Moreover, the proteins expressions also decreased significantly in claudin-11, N-cadherin, α-catenin, connexin-43 and desmoglein-2 in mice treated with fluoride and/or SO2. These changes in BTB structure and constitutive proteins may therefore be connected with the low sperm quality in these mice. The role of fluoride should deserves more attention in this process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianhai Zhang
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Ecological Animal Science and Environmental Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, Shanxi, 030801, China
| | - Zhihui Li
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Ecological Animal Science and Environmental Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, Shanxi, 030801, China
| | - Mingli Qie
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Ecological Animal Science and Environmental Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, Shanxi, 030801, China
| | - Ruibo Zheng
- Shanxi Huawei Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd., Yuci, Shanxi, 030600, China
| | - Jagathpala Shetty
- Department of Cell Biology, Center for Research in Contraceptive and Reproductive Health, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, 22908, USA
| | - Jundong Wang
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Ecological Animal Science and Environmental Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, Shanxi, 030801, China.
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45
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Use of a rat ex-vivo testis culture method to assess toxicity of select known male reproductive toxicants. Reprod Toxicol 2016; 60:92-103. [DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2016.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2015] [Revised: 01/12/2016] [Accepted: 01/18/2016] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
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46
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Li N, Cheng CY. Mammalian target of rapamycin complex (mTOR) pathway modulates blood-testis barrier (BTB) function through F-actin organization and gap junction. Histol Histopathol 2016; 31:961-8. [PMID: 26957088 DOI: 10.14670/hh-11-753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
mTOR (mammalian target of rapamycin) is one of the most important signaling molecules in mammalian cells which regulates an array of cellular events, ranging from cell metabolism to cell proliferation. Based on the association of mTOR with the core component proteins, such as Raptor or Rictor, mTOR can become the mTORC1 (mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1) or mTORC2, respectively. Studies have shown that during the epithelial cycle of spermatogenesis, mTORC1 promotes remodeling and restructuring of the blood-testis barrier (BTB) in vitro and in vivo, making the Sertoli cell tight junction (TJ)-permeability barrier "leaky"; whereas mTORC2 promotes BTB integrity, making the Sertoli cell TJ-barrier "tighter". These contrasting effects, coupled with the spatiotemporal expression of the core signaling proteins at the BTB that confer the respective functions of mTORC1 vs. mTORC2 thus provide a unique mechanism to modulate BTB dynamics, allowing or disallowing the transport of biomolecules and also preleptotene spermatocytes across the immunological barrier. More importantly, studies have shown that these changes to BTB dynamics conferred by mTORC1 and mTORC2 are mediated by changes in the organization of the actin microfilament networks at the BTB, and involve gap junction (GJ) intercellular communication. Since GJ has recently been shown to be crucial to reboot spermatogenesis and meiosis following toxicant-induced aspermatogenesis, these findings thus provide new insightful information regarding the integration of mTOR and GJ to regulate spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Li
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, New York, USA
| | - C Yan Cheng
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, New York, USA. or
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47
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Al-Maghrebi M, Renno WM, Al-Somali HF, Botras MS, Qadhi IN. Lutein modulates transcription dysregulation of adhesion molecules and spermatogenesis transcription factors induced by testicular ischemia reperfusion injury: it could be SAFE. Naunyn Schmiedebergs Arch Pharmacol 2016; 389:539-51. [DOI: 10.1007/s00210-016-1223-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2015] [Accepted: 02/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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48
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Yu H, Yang J, Zhou X, Xiao Q, Lü Y, Xia L. High glucose induces dysfunction of airway epithelial barrier through down-regulation of connexin 43. Exp Cell Res 2016; 342:11-9. [PMID: 26902399 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2016.02.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2015] [Revised: 02/16/2016] [Accepted: 02/18/2016] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
The airway epithelium is a barrier to the inhaled antigens and pathogens. Connexin 43 (Cx43) has been found to play critical role in maintaining the function of airway epithelial barrier and be involved in the pathogenesis of the diabetic retinal vasculature, diabetes nephropathy and diabetes skin. Hyperglycemia has been shown to be an independent risk factor for respiratory infections. We hypothesize that the down-regulation of Cx43 induced by HG alters the expression of tight junctions (zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1) and occludin) and contributes to dysfunction of airway epithelial barrier, and Cx43 plays a critical role in the process in human airway epithelial cells (16 HBE). We show that high glucose (HG) decreased the expression of ZO-1 and occludin, disassociated interaction between Cx43 and tight junctions, and then increased airway epithelial transepithelial electrical resistance (TER) and permeability by down-regulation of Cx43 in human airway epithelial cells. These observations demonstrate an important role for Cx43 in regulating HG-induced dysfunction of airway epithelial barrier. These findings may bring new insights into the molecular pathogenesis of pulmonary infection related to diabetes mellitus and lead to novel therapeutic intervention for the dysfunction of airway epithelial barrier in chronic inflammatory airway diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongmei Yu
- Department of Geriatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.
| | - Juan Yang
- Division of Respiratory Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiangdong Zhou
- Division of Respiratory Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical College, Hainan, China
| | - Qian Xiao
- Department of Geriatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yang Lü
- Department of Geriatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Li Xia
- Department of Geriatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
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49
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McCabe MJ, Tarulli GA, Laven-Law G, Matthiesson KL, Meachem SJ, McLachlan RI, Dinger ME, Stanton PG. Gonadotropin suppression in men leads to a reduction in claudin-11 at the Sertoli cell tight junction. Hum Reprod 2016; 31:875-86. [PMID: 26908839 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dew009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2015] [Accepted: 01/11/2016] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Are Sertoli cell tight junctions (TJs) disrupted in men undergoing hormonal contraception? SUMMARY ANSWER Localization of the key Sertoli cell TJ protein, claudin-11, was markedly disrupted by 8 weeks of gonadotropin suppression, the degree of which was related to the extent of adluminal germ cell suppression. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Sertoli cell TJs are vital components of the blood-testis barrier (BTB) that sequester developing adluminal meiotic germ cells and spermatids from the vascular compartment. Claudin-11 knockout mice are infertile; additionally claudin-11 is spatially disrupted in chronically gonadotropin-suppressed rats coincident with a loss of BTB function, and claudin-11 is disorganized in various human testicular disorders. These data support the Sertoli cell TJ as a potential site of hormonal contraceptive action. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION BTB proteins were assessed by immunohistochemistry (n = 16 samples) and mRNA (n = 18 samples) expression levels in available archived testis tissue from a previous study of 22 men who had undergone 8 weeks of gonadotropin suppression and for whom meiotic and post-meiotic germ cell numbers were available. The gonadotropin suppression regimens were (i) testosterone enanthate (TE) plus the GnRH antagonist, acyline (A); (ii) TE + the progestin, levonorgestrel, (LNG); (iii) TE + LNG + A or (iv) TE + LNG + the 5α-reductase inhibitor, dutasteride (D). A control group consisted of seven additional men, with three archived samples available for this study. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTINGS, METHODS Immunohistochemical localization of claudin-11 (TJ) and other junctional type markers [ZO-1 (cytoplasmic plaque), β-catenin (adherens junction), connexin-43 (gap junction), vinculin (ectoplasmic specialization) and β-actin (cytoskeleton)] and quantitative PCR was conducted using matched frozen testis tissue. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Claudin-11 formed a continuous staining pattern at the BTB in control men. Regardless of gonadotropin suppression treatment, claudin-11 localization was markedly disrupted and was broadly associated with the extent of meiotic/post-meiotic germ cell suppression; claudin-11 staining was (i) punctate (i.e. 'spotty' appearance) at the basal aspect of tubules when the average numbers of adluminal germ cells were <15% of control, (ii) presented as short fragments with cytoplasmic extensions when numbers were 15-25% of control or (iii) remained continuous when numbers were >40% of control. Changes in localization of connexin-43 and vinculin were also observed (smaller effects than for claudin-11) but ZO-1, β-catenin and β-actin did not differ, compared with control. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Claudin-11 was the only Sertoli cell TJ protein investigated, but it is considered to be the most pivotal of constituent proteins given its known implication in infertility and BTB function. We were limited to testis samples which had been gonadotropin-suppressed for 8 weeks, shorter than the 74-day spermatogenic wave, which may account for the heterogeneity in claudin-11 and germ cell response observed among the men. Longer suppression (12-24 weeks) is known to suppress germ cells further and claudin-11 disruption may be more uniform, although we could not access such samples. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS These findings are important for our understanding of the sites of action of male hormonal contraception, because they suggest that BTB function could be ablated following long-term hormone suppression treatment. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS National Health and Medical Research Council (Australia) Program Grants 241000 and 494802; Research Fellowship 1022327 (to R.I.M.) and the Victorian Government's Operational Infrastructure Support Program. None of the authors have any conflicts to disclose. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER Not applicable.
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Affiliation(s)
- M J McCabe
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Monash Medical Centre, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia Applied Biology/Biotechnology, Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology University, Bundoora, VIC 3088, Australia Kinghorn Centre for Clinical Genomics, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010, Australia St Vincent's Clinical School, UNSW Australia, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - G A Tarulli
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Monash Medical Centre, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia Dame Roma Mitchell Cancer Research Laboratories, Discipline of Medicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
| | - G Laven-Law
- Dame Roma Mitchell Cancer Research Laboratories, Discipline of Medicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
| | - K L Matthiesson
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Monash Medical Centre, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
| | - S J Meachem
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Monash Medical Centre, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
| | - R I McLachlan
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Monash Medical Centre, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
| | - M E Dinger
- Kinghorn Centre for Clinical Genomics, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010, Australia St Vincent's Clinical School, UNSW Australia, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - P G Stanton
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Monash Medical Centre, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
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50
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Kidder GM, Cyr DG. Roles of connexins in testis development and spermatogenesis. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2016; 50:22-30. [PMID: 26780117 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2015.12.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2015] [Accepted: 12/23/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The development and differentiation of cells involved in spermatogenesis requires highly regulated and coordinated interactions between cells. Intercellular communication, particularly via connexin43 (Cx43) gap junctions, plays a critical role in the development of germ cells during fetal development and during spermatogenesis in the adult. Loss of Cx43 in the fetus results in a decreased number of germ cells, while the loss of Cx43 in the adult Sertoli cells results in complete inhibition of spermatogenesis. Connexins 26, 32, 33, 36, 45, 46 and 50 have also been localized to specific compartments of the testis in various mammals. Loss of Cx46 is associated with an increase in germ cell apoptosis and loss of the integrity of the blood-testis barrier, while loss of other connexins appears to have more subtle effects within the seminiferous tubule. Outside the seminiferous tubule, the interstitial Leydig cells express connexins 36 and 45 along with Cx43; deletion of the latter connexin did not reveal it to be crucial for steroidogenesis or for the development and differentiation of Leydig cells. In contrast, loss of Cx43 from Sertoli cells results in Leydig cell hyperplasia, suggesting important cross-talk between Sertoli and Leydig cells. In the epididymis connexins 26, 30.3, Cx31.1, 32, and 43 have been identified and differentiation of the epithelium is associated with dramatic changes in their expression. Decreased expression of Cx43 results in decreased sperm motility, a function acquired by spermatozoa during epididymal transit. Clearly, intercellular gap junctional communication within the testis and epididymis represents a critical aspect of male reproductive function and fertility. The implications of this mode of intercellular communication for male fertility remains a poorly understood but important facet of male reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerald M Kidder
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, The University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario N6A 5C1, Canada.
| | - Daniel G Cyr
- INRS-Institut Armand-Frappier, University of Québec, 531 boul. des Prairies, Laval, Québec H7V 1B7, Canada
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