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Rosati L, Agnese M, Di Lorenzo M, Barra T, Valiante S, Prisco M. Spermatogenesis and regulatory factors in the wall lizard Podarcis sicula. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2020; 298:113579. [PMID: 32777222 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2020.113579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Revised: 07/23/2020] [Accepted: 08/01/2020] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is an extraordinarily complex process, regulated by several factors, which leads to the differentiation of spermatogonia into spermatozoa. Among vertebrates, several reports have been focused on the lizard Podarcis sicula, a seasonal breeder and a good model for the study of reproductive processes. The goal of this review is to resume all the available data about systemic and above all local control factors involved in the control of P. sicula testicular activity. During the seasonal reproductive cycle, the variation of the expression levels of these factors determines significant variations that induce the activation or blocking of spermatogenesis. The data supplied in this review, in addition to analyze the current literature regarding the main actors of Podarcis sicula spermatogenesis, will hopefully provide a basic model that can be used for further studies on the intratesticular interaction between molecular factors that control spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Rosati
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cintia 21, 80126 Naples, Italy.
| | - Marisa Agnese
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cintia 21, 80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Mariana Di Lorenzo
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cintia 21, 80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Teresa Barra
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cintia 21, 80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Salvatore Valiante
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cintia 21, 80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Marina Prisco
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cintia 21, 80126 Naples, Italy
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2
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Prisco M, Rosati L, Morgillo E, Mollica MP, Agnese M, Andreuccetti P, Valiante S. Pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating peptide (PACAP) and its receptors in Mus musculus testis. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2020; 286:113297. [PMID: 31604076 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2019.113297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2019] [Revised: 09/25/2019] [Accepted: 10/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
To enlighten the involvement of PACAP/receptors system in the control of mammal testis, we investigated the expression of PACAP and the localization of PACAP and its receptors PAC1, VPAC1, and VPAC2 in the testis of Mus musculus. By molecular and immunohistochemical investigations, we highlighted that PACAP and its receptors are widely represented in germ cells of Mus testis, particularly in spermatocytes I, spermatids, and spermatozoa, strongly suggesting their involvement in spermatogenesis process. Moreover, for the first time in the adult mouse testis we highlighted that PACAP is present within Leydig cells, as PACAP receptors, confirming its involvement in the control of steroidogenesis in mouse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Prisco
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy.
| | - Luigi Rosati
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Eliana Morgillo
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Marisa Agnese
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
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3
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Akmal M, Gholib G, Rinidar R, Fitriani F, Helmi TZ, Sugito S, Isa M, Nurliana N, Wahyuni S, Dasrul D, Yaman MA. The concentration of testosterone, pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide, and protamine 1 in the serum of male chicken following administration of epididymis and testicular extracts and their combination. Vet World 2019; 12:1101-1107. [PMID: 31528039 PMCID: PMC6702581 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2019.1101-1107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2019] [Accepted: 06/12/2019] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Bakcground and Aim Testis and epididymis are male reproductive organs that play an important role in spermatogenesis. These two organs are rich in the content of hormones and other molecules needed in the process of spermatogenesis which affect the quality of the spermatozoa. The objective of this study was to examine the effect of the administration of epididymis and testicular extracts and their combination on testosterone, pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP), and protamine 1 (PRM1) concentrations in the serum of male chicken. Materials and Methods Twenty male chickens (broiler strain Cp707), aged 3 weeks and weighing 800-1000 g, were randomly divided into four different groups including a control group (T0) = injected with 1 ml normal saline and treatment groups: T1 = injected with 1 ml epididymis extract, T2 = injected with 1 ml testicular extract, and T3 = injected with a combination of 1 ml epididymis + 1 ml testicular extract. The experiment was conducted for 13 days and at the end of the study (day 14), the chickens were sacrificed to obtain the serum. Furthermore, the concentrations of testosterone, PACAP, and PRM1 were then measured by using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay technique. Results The concentrations of PACAP and PRM1 did not show a significant difference between treatment groups (T1, T2, and T3) and control group (T0) (p>0.05). However, the concentration of testosterone showed a significantly higher difference in a group injected with a combination of 1 ml epididymis and 1 ml testicular extracts (T3) compared to the control group (T0) (p<0.05). Conclusion The administration of epididymis and testicular extracts and their combination did not affect the increase of PACAP and PRM1 concentration. However, a combination of these extracts significantly affects the increase of testosterone concentration in the serum of male chicken.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muslim Akmal
- Laboratory of Histology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universitas Syiah Kuala, Banda Aceh, Aceh, Indonesia
| | - Gholib Gholib
- Laboratory of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universitas Syiah Kuala, Banda Aceh, Aceh, Indonesia
| | - Rinidar Rinidar
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universitas Syiah Kuala, Banda Aceh, Aceh, Indonesia
| | - Fitriani Fitriani
- Laboratory of Histology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universitas Syiah Kuala, Banda Aceh, Aceh, Indonesia
| | - T Zahrial Helmi
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universitas Syiah Kuala, Banda Aceh, Aceh, Indonesia
| | - Sugito Sugito
- Laboratory of Clinic, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universitas Syiah Kuala, Banda Aceh, Aceh, Indonesia
| | - M Isa
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universitas Syiah Kuala, Banda Aceh, Aceh, Indonesia
| | - Nurliana Nurliana
- Laboratory of Veterinary Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universitas Syiah Kuala, Banda Aceh, Aceh, Indonesia
| | - Sri Wahyuni
- Laboratory of Anatomy, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universitas Syiah Kuala, Banda Aceh, Aceh, Indonesia
| | - Dasrul Dasrul
- Laboratory of Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universitas Syiah Kuala, Banda Aceh, Aceh, Indonesia
| | - M Aman Yaman
- Field Laboratory of Animal Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universitas Syiah Kuala, Banda Aceh, Aceh, Indonesia
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4
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Rosati L, Agnese M, Abagnale L, Aniello F, Andreuccetti P, Prisco M. The Mussel
Mytilus galloprovincialis
in the Bay of Naples: New Insights on Oogenic Cycle and Its Hormonal Control. Anat Rec (Hoboken) 2019; 302:1039-1049. [DOI: 10.1002/ar.24075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2017] [Revised: 08/22/2018] [Accepted: 10/12/2018] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Rosati
- Department of BiologyFederico II Naples University Naples Italy
- Dipartimento di Scienze e TecnologieUniversità degli Studi di Napoli “Parthenope” Naples Italy
| | - Marisa Agnese
- Department of BiologyFederico II Naples University Naples Italy
| | - Ludovico Abagnale
- 3th South Naples ASLVeterinary Operative Unit, Torre del Greco Naples Italy
| | | | | | - Marina Prisco
- Department of BiologyFederico II Naples University Naples Italy
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5
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Prisco M, Rosati L, Agnese M, Aceto S, Andreuccetti P, Valiante S. Pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide in the testis of the quail Coturnix coturnix: Expression, localization, and phylogenetic analysis. Evol Dev 2019; 21:145-156. [PMID: 30791203 DOI: 10.1111/ede.12285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2018] [Revised: 02/04/2019] [Accepted: 02/05/2019] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
To evaluate the involvement of pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP)/receptors system in the control of testis activity, we have investigated the expression and localization of PACAP and the distribution of its receptors in the testis of mature samples of quail Coturnix coturnix, and we have performed a phylogenetic analysis of PACAP in birds. Using histological, molecular, and bioinformatics tools, we demonstrated that (a) PACAP messenger RNA shows a high sequence identity with that reported in other birds studied so far and in other vertebrates. Furthermore, we showed that purifying selection acts on PACAP; (b) the PACAP peptide is present only in Leydig cells, whereas its receptors are localized within both Leydig and germ cells; (c) the synthesis of PACAP does not take place in seminiferous tubules. The role of PACAP in the control of spermatogenesis and steroidogenesis in birds is discussed. Finally, we talk about the phylogenetic and evolutionary relationships between PACAP in birds and in other vertebrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Prisco
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Luigi Rosati
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy.,Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie, Università degli Studi di Napoli "Parthenope", Naples, Italy
| | - Marisa Agnese
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Serena Aceto
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
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6
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Ávila-Mendoza J, Pérez-Rueda E, Urban-Sosa V, Carranza M, Martínez-Moreno CG, Luna M, Arámburo C. Characterization and distribution of GHRH, PACAP, TRH, SST and IGF1 mRNAs in the green iguana. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2018; 255:90-101. [PMID: 28974369 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2017.09.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2017] [Revised: 09/18/2017] [Accepted: 09/28/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The somatotropic axis (SA) regulates numerous aspects of vertebrate physiology such as development, growth, and metabolism and has influence on several tissues including neural, immune, reproductive and gastric tract. Growth hormone (GH) is a key component of SA, it is synthesized and released mainly by pituitary somatotrophs, although now it is known that virtually all tissues can express GH, which, in addition to its well-described endocrine roles, also has autocrine/paracrine/intracrine actions. In the pituitary, GH expression is regulated by several hypothalamic neuropeptides including GHRH, PACAP, TRH and SST. GH, in turn, regulates IGF1 synthesis in several target tissues, adding complexity to the system since GH effects can be exerted either directly or mediated by IGF1. In reptiles, little is known about the SA components and their functional interactions. The aim of this work was to characterize the mRNAs of the principal SA components in the green iguana and to develop the tools that allow the study of the structural and functional evolution of this system in reptiles. By employing RT-PCR and RACE, the cDNAs encoding for GHRH, PACAP, TRH, SST and IGF1 were amplified and sequenced. Results showed that these cDNAs coded for the corresponding protein precursors of 154, 170, 243, 113, and 131 amino acids, respectively. Of these, GHRH, PACAP, SST and IGF1 precursors exhibited a high structural conservation with respect to its counterparts in other vertebrates. On the other hand, iguana's TRH precursor showed 7 functional copies of mature TRH (pyr-QHP-NH2), as compared to 4 and 6 copies of TRH in avian and mammalian proTRH sequences, respectively. It was found that in addition to its primary production site (brain for GHRH, PACAP, TRH and SST, and liver for IGF1), they were also expressed in other peripheral tissues, i.e. testes and ovaries expressed all the studied mRNAs, whereas TRH and IGF1 mRNAs were observed ubiquitously in all tissues considered. These results show that the main SA components in reptiles of the Squamata Order maintain a good structural conservation among vertebrate phylogeny, and suggest important physiological interactions (endocrine, autocrine and/or paracrine) between them due to their wide peripheral tissue expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Ávila-Mendoza
- Departamento de Neurobiología Celular y Molecular, Instituto de Neurobiología, Campus Juriquilla, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Querétaro, Qro. 76230, Mexico
| | - Ernesto Pérez-Rueda
- Departamento de Ingeniería Celular y Biocatálisis, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, Mor. 62210, Mexico; Instituto de Investigaciones en Matemáticas Aplicadas y en Sistemas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mérida, Yuc. 97302, Mexico
| | - Valeria Urban-Sosa
- Departamento de Neurobiología Celular y Molecular, Instituto de Neurobiología, Campus Juriquilla, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Querétaro, Qro. 76230, Mexico
| | - Martha Carranza
- Departamento de Neurobiología Celular y Molecular, Instituto de Neurobiología, Campus Juriquilla, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Querétaro, Qro. 76230, Mexico
| | - Carlos G Martínez-Moreno
- Departamento de Neurobiología Celular y Molecular, Instituto de Neurobiología, Campus Juriquilla, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Querétaro, Qro. 76230, Mexico
| | - Maricela Luna
- Departamento de Neurobiología Celular y Molecular, Instituto de Neurobiología, Campus Juriquilla, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Querétaro, Qro. 76230, Mexico
| | - Carlos Arámburo
- Departamento de Neurobiología Celular y Molecular, Instituto de Neurobiología, Campus Juriquilla, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Querétaro, Qro. 76230, Mexico.
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7
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Reglodi D, Cseh S, Somoskoi B, Fulop BD, Szentleleky E, Szegeczki V, Kovacs A, Varga A, Kiss P, Hashimoto H, Tamas A, Bardosi A, Manavalan S, Bako E, Zakany R, Juhasz T. Disturbed spermatogenic signaling in pituitary adenylate cyclase activating polypeptide-deficient mice. Reproduction 2017; 155:129-139. [PMID: 29101268 DOI: 10.1530/rep-17-0470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2017] [Revised: 10/18/2017] [Accepted: 11/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
PACAP is a neuropeptide with diverse functions in various organs, including reproductive system. It is present in the testis in high concentrations, and in addition to the stage-specific expression within the seminiferous tubules, PACAP affects spermatogenesis and the functions of Leydig and Sertoli cells. Mice lacking endogenous PACAP show reduced fertility, but the possibility of abnormalities in spermatogenic signaling has not yet been investigated. Therefore, we performed a detailed morphological analysis of spermatozoa, sperm motility and investigated signaling pathways that play a role during spermatogenesis in knockout mice. No significant alterations were found in testicular morphology or motility of sperm in homozygous and heterozygous PACAP-deficient mice in spite of the moderately increased number of severely damaged sperms. However, we found robust changes in mRNA and/or protein expression of several factors that play an important role in spermatogenesis. Protein kinase A expression was markedly reduced, while downstream phospho-ERK and p38 were elevated in knockout animals. Expression of major transcription factors, such as Sox9 and phospho-Sox9, was decreased, while that of Sox10, as a redundant factor, was increased in PACAP-deficient mice. The reduced phospho-Sox9 expression was partly due to increased expression and activity of phosphatase PP2A in knockout mice. Targets of Sox transcription factors, such as collagen type IV, were reduced in knockout mice. In summary, our results show that lack of PACAP leads to disturbed signaling in spermatogenesis, which could be a factor responsible for reduced fertility in PACAP knockout mice, and further support the role of PACAP in reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Reglodi
- Department of AnatomyMTA-PTE PACAP Research Team, Centre for Neuroscience, University of Pecs, Pecs, Hungary
| | - S Cseh
- Department and Clinic of ReproductionUniversity of Veterinary Medicine, Budapest, Hungary
| | - B Somoskoi
- Department and Clinic of ReproductionUniversity of Veterinary Medicine, Budapest, Hungary
| | - B D Fulop
- Department of AnatomyMTA-PTE PACAP Research Team, Centre for Neuroscience, University of Pecs, Pecs, Hungary
| | - E Szentleleky
- Department of AnatomyHistology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - V Szegeczki
- Department of AnatomyHistology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - A Kovacs
- Department of AnatomyMTA-PTE PACAP Research Team, Centre for Neuroscience, University of Pecs, Pecs, Hungary
| | - A Varga
- Department of AnatomyMTA-PTE PACAP Research Team, Centre for Neuroscience, University of Pecs, Pecs, Hungary
| | - P Kiss
- Department of AnatomyMTA-PTE PACAP Research Team, Centre for Neuroscience, University of Pecs, Pecs, Hungary
| | - H Hashimoto
- Laboratory of Molecular NeuropharmacologyGraduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan.,Molecular Research Center for Children's Mental DevelopmentUnited Graduate School of Child Development, Osaka University, Kanazawa University, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Chiba University and University of Fukui, Suita, Osaka, Japan.,Division of BioscienceInstitute for Datability Science, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan
| | - A Tamas
- Department of AnatomyMTA-PTE PACAP Research Team, Centre for Neuroscience, University of Pecs, Pecs, Hungary
| | - A Bardosi
- MVZ für HistologieZytologie und Molekulare Diagnostik, Trier, Germany
| | - S Manavalan
- Department of Basic SciencesNational University of Health Sciences, Pinellas Park, Florida, USA
| | - E Bako
- Cell Biology and Signalling Research Group of the Hungarian Academy of SciencesDepartment of Medical Chemistry, Research Centre for Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - R Zakany
- Department of AnatomyHistology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - T Juhasz
- Department of AnatomyHistology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
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8
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Prisco M, Agnese M, De Marino A, Andreuccetti P, Rosati L. Spermatogenic Cycle and Steroidogenic Control of Spermatogenesis in Mytilus galloprovincialis Collected in the Bay of Naples. Anat Rec (Hoboken) 2017; 300:1881-1894. [PMID: 28658561 DOI: 10.1002/ar.23626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2016] [Revised: 03/06/2017] [Accepted: 03/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The aim of the present article was to study the spermatogenic cycle of Mytilus galloprovincialis collected in the Bay of Naples during a whole year and to acquire new insights into the mechanism of control. Knowledge of the Mytilus cycle in this geographic area is of particular interest as, to the best of our knowledge, the male gonad cycle has been hitherto unexplored. Testis organization was evaluated together with the localization of the enzymes 3β-HSD, 17β-HSD, and P450-aromatase, which are strictly connected to the synthesis of two key hormones involved in the testis activity: testosterone and 17β-estradiol. It was demonstrated that: (1) the spermatogenic cycle starts in late Summer-early Fall and continues until early Winter, when the first spawning occurs; after rapid gonad restoration, several spawning events take place until June, when the testis becomes non-active again; (2) in the testis, true Leydig and Sertoli cells are present; (3) during the reproductive period, Sertoli, Leydig, germ, and adipogranular cells (ADGs) are positive to 3β-HSD and 17β-HSD, while only germ cells are positive to P450 aromatase; by contrast, during the resting period, only ADGs are positive to 3β-HSD and 17β-HSD, and P450-aromatase is no longer recognizable. The presence of a hermaphrodite sample is also described. Anat Rec, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Anat Rec, 300:1881-1894, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Prisco
- Department of Biology, Federico II Naples University, Naples, Italy
| | - Marisa Agnese
- Department of Biology, Federico II Naples University, Naples, Italy
| | | | | | - Luigi Rosati
- Department of Biology, Federico II Naples University, Naples, Italy
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9
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Horvath G, Nemeth J, Brubel R, Opper B, Koppan M, Tamas A, Szereday L, Reglodi D. Occurrence and Functions of PACAP in the Placenta. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-35135-3_23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/17/2023]
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10
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Rosati L, Agnese M, Di Fiore MM, Andreuccetti P, Prisco M. P450 aromatase: a key enzyme in the spermatogenesis of the Italian wall lizard, Podarcis sicula. J Exp Biol 2016; 219:2402-8. [DOI: 10.1242/jeb.135996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2015] [Accepted: 04/27/2016] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT
P450 aromatase is a key enzyme in steroidogenesis involved in the conversion of testosterone into 17β-estradiol. We investigated the localization and the expression of P450 aromatase in Podarcis sicula testes during the different phases of the reproductive cycle: summer stasis (July–August), early autumnal resumption (September), middle autumnal resumption (October–November), winter stasis (December–February), spring resumption (March–April) and the reproductive period (May–June). Using immunohistochemistry, we demonstrated that the P450 aromatase is always present in somatic and germ cells of P. sicula testis, particularly in spermatids and spermatozoa, except in early autumnal resumption, when P450 aromatase is evident only within Leydig cells. Using real-time PCR and semi-quantitative blot investigations, we also demonstrated that both mRNA and protein were expressed in all phases, with two peaks of expression occurring in summer and in winter stasis. These highest levels of P450 aromatase are in line with the increase of 17β-estradiol, responsible for the spermatogenesis block typical of this species. Differently, in autumnal resumption, the level of P450 aromatase dramatically decreased, along with 17β-estradiol levels, and testosterone titres increased, responsible for the subsequent renewal of spermatogenesis not followed by spermiation. In spring resumption and in the reproductive period we found intermediate P450 aromatase amounts, low levels of 17β-estradiol and the highest testosterone levels determining the resumption of spermatogenesis needed for reproduction. Our results, the first collected in a non-mammalian vertebrate, indicate a role of P450 aromatase in the control of steroidogenesis and spermatogenesis, particularly in spermiogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Rosati
- Dipartimento di Biologia, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, 80134 Naples, Italy
| | - Marisa Agnese
- Dipartimento di Biologia, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, 80134 Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Maddalena Di Fiore
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali, Biologiche e Farmaceutiche, Seconda Università degli Studi di Napoli, 81010 Caserta, Italy
| | - Piero Andreuccetti
- Dipartimento di Biologia, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, 80134 Naples, Italy
| | - Marina Prisco
- Dipartimento di Biologia, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, 80134 Naples, Italy
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11
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Saberi A, Jamal A, Beets I, Schoofs L, Newmark PA. GPCRs Direct Germline Development and Somatic Gonad Function in Planarians. PLoS Biol 2016; 14:e1002457. [PMID: 27163480 PMCID: PMC4862687 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pbio.1002457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2015] [Accepted: 04/11/2016] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Planarians display remarkable plasticity in maintenance of their germline, with the ability to develop or dismantle reproductive tissues in response to systemic and environmental cues. Here, we investigated the role of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) in this dynamic germline regulation. By genome-enabled receptor mining, we identified 566 putative planarian GPCRs and classified them into conserved and phylum-specific subfamilies. We performed a functional screen to identify NPYR-1 as the cognate receptor for NPY-8, a neuropeptide required for sexual maturation and germ cell differentiation. Similar to NPY-8, knockdown of this receptor results in loss of differentiated germ cells and sexual maturity. NPYR-1 is expressed in neuroendocrine cells of the central nervous system and can be activated specifically by NPY-8 in cell-based assays. Additionally, we screened the complement of GPCRs with expression enriched in sexually reproducing planarians, and identified an orphan chemoreceptor family member, ophis, that controls differentiation of germline stem cells (GSCs). ophis is expressed in somatic cells of male and female gonads, as well as in accessory reproductive tissues. We have previously shown that somatic gonadal cells are required for male GSC specification and maintenance in planarians. However, ophis is not essential for GSC specification or maintenance and, therefore, defines a secondary role for planarian gonadal niche cells in promoting GSC differentiation. Our studies uncover the complement of planarian GPCRs and reveal previously unappreciated roles for these receptors in systemic and local (i.e., niche) regulation of germ cell development. Genome-wide analysis of the planarian Schmidtea mediterranea reveals a complement of over 550 G protein-coupled receptors, including two with critical roles in germline development. G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are the largest and most versatile family of cell-surface receptors. They play critical roles in various cellular and physiological systems and have emerged as a leading group of therapeutic targets. Due to their structural and functional conservation across animals, much has been learned about GPCRs from studies in laboratory models. Here, we performed genome-wide receptor mining to identify and categorize the complement of GPCR-encoding genes in the planarian Schmidtea mediterranea, an emerging model organism for regeneration and germ cell biology. We then conducted two studies implicating planarian GPCRs in the regulation of reproductive function. First, we found the receptor component of a central neuropeptide Y signaling pathway and demonstrated its involvement in the systemic control of reproductive development. Next, we showed that a novel chemoreceptor family member is expressed in somatic cells of the planarian gonads and directs germ cell maturation via the niche. We predict that future studies on the hundreds of other planarian GPCRs identified in this work will not only help us understand the conserved role of these receptors in various physiological pathways but also pave the way for identification of novel therapeutic targets in parasitic relatives of the planarian.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amir Saberi
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute and Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Ayana Jamal
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute and Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Isabel Beets
- Department of Biology, Functional Genomics and Proteomics Unit, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Liliane Schoofs
- Department of Biology, Functional Genomics and Proteomics Unit, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Phillip A. Newmark
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute and Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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12
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Agnese M, Valiante S, Rosati L, Andreuccetti P, Prisco M. Pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating peptide (PACAP) and PAC1 receptor in the testis of cartilaginous fish Torpedo marmorata: A molecular and phylogenetic study. Comp Biochem Physiol B Biochem Mol Biol 2016; 191:26-35. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpb.2015.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2015] [Revised: 09/08/2015] [Accepted: 09/08/2015] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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13
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Rosati L, Prisco M, Di Fiore MM, Santillo A, Valiante S, Andreuccetti P, Agnese M. Role of PACAP on testosterone and 17β-estradiol production in the testis of wall lizard Podarcis sicula. Comp Biochem Physiol A Mol Integr Physiol 2015; 191:180-186. [PMID: 26517944 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2015.10.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2015] [Revised: 10/21/2015] [Accepted: 10/25/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating peptide (PACAP) is a neuropeptide that in mammalian testis is involved in the control of testosterone and 17β-estradiol synthesis. A similar involvement was recently postulated in the testis of a nonmammalian vertebrate, the wall lizard Podarcis sicula. Indeed, we reported the presence of PACAP and its receptors throughout the reproductive cycle within both germ and somatic cells. Now, we investigated the effects of PACAP on steroidogenesis in significant periods of Podarcis reproductive cycle: winter stasis, reproductive period and summer stasis. Using different in vitro treatments, in the absence or presence of receptor antagonists, we demonstrated that in P. sicula testis PACAP is involved in the control of testosterone and 17β-estradiol production. In particular we demonstrated that treatment with PACAP induced a testosterone increase only in stasis periods (winter and summer stasis); differently they induced a 17β-estradiol production in all periods analyzed (summer stasis, winter stasis and reproductive period).
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Rosati
- Dipartimento di Biologia, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Marina Prisco
- Dipartimento di Biologia, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Maddalena Di Fiore
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali, Biologiche e Farmaceutiche, Seconda Università degli Studi di Napoli, Caserta, Italy
| | - Alessandra Santillo
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali, Biologiche e Farmaceutiche, Seconda Università degli Studi di Napoli, Caserta, Italy
| | - Salvatore Valiante
- Dipartimento di Biologia, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Piero Andreuccetti
- Dipartimento di Biologia, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, Naples, Italy.
| | - Marisa Agnese
- Dipartimento di Biologia, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, Naples, Italy
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14
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Rosati L, Prisco M, Coraggio F, Valiante S, Scudiero R, Laforgia V, Andreuccetti P, Agnese M. PACAP and PAC₁ receptor in the reproductive cycle of male lizard Podarcis sicula. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2014; 205:102-8. [PMID: 24852351 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2014.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2013] [Revised: 04/25/2014] [Accepted: 05/06/2014] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating peptide (PACAP) is a neuropeptide involved in multiple functions, including vertebrate reproduction. Recently, we reported the presence of PACAP in the testis of Italian wall lizard Podarcis sicula during reproductive period (May-June). Herein we investigated the PACAP mRNA expression and the localization of PACAP/PACAP receptor system, in the other periods of the Podarcis reproductive cycle, namely in summer stasis, early autumnal resumption, mid-autumnal resumption, winter stasis, and spring resumption. Using biomolecular and immunohistochemical investigations, we demonstrated that PACAP mRNA was widely expressed in all germ and somatic cells; in summer stasis (July-August) and early autumnal resumption (September) in particular, the mRNA was always found in Sertoli cells while was transiently expressed in germ and in Leydig cells. Differently from the mRNA, the protein was always present in germ and somatic cells independently from the reproductive cycle phase. As PACAP, the PAC1 receptor was always present in the testis, except for the summer stasis (July-August) and the early autumnal resumption (September), when PACAP was lacking in germ and somatic cells (Leydig and Sertoli cells). The present results strongly suggest that PACAP/PAC1 receptor system is widely represented during the reproductive cycle of male lizard. The possible involvement of PACAP/PACAP receptor system in the control of spermatogenesis is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Rosati
- University of Naples Federico II, Department of Biology, Italy
| | - Marina Prisco
- University of Naples Federico II, Department of Biology, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Marisa Agnese
- University of Naples Federico II, Department of Biology, Italy
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15
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Agnese M, Rosati L, Prisco M, Coraggio F, Valiante S, Scudiero R, Laforgia V, Andreuccetti P. The VIP/VPACR system in the reproductive cycle of male lizard Podarcis sicula. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2014; 205:94-101. [PMID: 24694517 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2014.03.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2013] [Revised: 03/11/2014] [Accepted: 03/14/2014] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Starting from the knowledge that in the reproductive period the Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide (VIP) is widely distributed in Podarcis sicula testis, we studied VIP expression and the localization of the neuropeptide and its receptors in the testis of the Italian wall lizard P. sicula in the other phases of its reproductive cycle (summer stasis, autumnal resumption, winter stasis, spring resumption). By Real Time-PCR, we demonstrated that testicular VIP mRNA levels change during the reproductive cycle, showing a cyclic trend with two peaks, one in the mid-autumnal resumption and the other in the reproductive period. By in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry, we demonstrated that both VIP mRNA and protein were widely distributed in the testis in almost all the phases of the cycle, except in the early autumnal resumption. As regards the receptors, the VPAC1R was localized mainly in Leydig cells, while the VPAC2R showed the same distribution of VIP. Our results demonstrate that, differently from mammals, where VIP is present only in nerve fibres innerving the testis, an endotesticular synthesis takes place in the lizard and the VIP synthesis changes throughout the reproductive cycle. Moreover, the VIP/VPAC receptor system distribution observed in germ and somatic cells in various phases of the cycle, and particularly in the autumnal resumption and the reproductive period, strongly suggests its involvement in both spermatogenesis and steroidogenesis. Finally, the wider distribution of VIP in lizards with respect to mammals leads us to hypothesize that during the evolution the synthesis sites have been transferred from the testis to other districts, such as the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marisa Agnese
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Luigi Rosati
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Marina Prisco
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | | | | | - Rosaria Scudiero
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Vincenza Laforgia
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
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Agnese M, Rosati L, Coraggio F, Valiante S, Prisco M. Molecular cloning of VIP and distribution of VIP/VPACR system in the testis of Podarcis sicula. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014; 321:334-47. [PMID: 24753326 DOI: 10.1002/jez.1866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2014] [Revised: 03/26/2014] [Accepted: 03/27/2014] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Using molecular, biochemical, and cytological tools, we studied the nucleotide and the deduced amino acid sequence of PHI/VIP and the distribution of VIP/VPAC receptor system in the testis of the Italian wall lizard Podarcis sicula to evaluate the involvement of such a neuropeptide in the spermatogenesis control. We demonstrated that (1) Podarcis sicula VIP had a high identity with other vertebrate VIP sequences, (2) differently from mammals, VIP was synthesized directly in the testis, and (3) VIP and its receptor VPAC2 were widely distributed in germ and somatic cells, while the VPAC1 R had a distribution limited to Leydig cells. Our results demonstrated that in Podarcis sicula the VIP sequence is highly preserved and that this neuropeptide is involved in lizard spermatogenesis and steroidogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marisa Agnese
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
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17
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Expression of VIP and its Receptors in the Testis of the Spotted Ray Torpedo marmorata (Risso 1880). J Mol Neurosci 2012; 48:638-46. [DOI: 10.1007/s12031-012-9857-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2012] [Accepted: 07/10/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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