1
|
Jeanne F, Pilet S, Klett D, Combarnous Y, Bernay B, Dufour S, Favrel P, Sourdaine P. Characterization of gonadotropins and their receptors in a chondrichthyan, Scyliorhinus canicula, fills a gap in the understanding of their coevolution. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2024; 358:114614. [PMID: 39326529 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2024.114614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2024] [Revised: 09/18/2024] [Accepted: 09/22/2024] [Indexed: 09/28/2024]
Abstract
In Gnathostomes, reproduction is mainly controlled by the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis, with the involvement of the pituitary gonadotropic hormones (GTH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), which activate their cognate receptors, FSHR and LHR, expressed in gonads. Each GTH consists of a common α subunit and of a specific FSHβ or LHβ subunit. Chondrichthyes (holocephalans and elasmobranchs) is a sister group of bony vertebrates. This position is highly favorable for the understanding of the evolution of endocrine regulations of reproduction among gnathostomes. Surprisingly, the characterization of gonadotropins and their receptors is still limited in chondrichthyes. In the present study, GTH and GTHR sequences have been identified from several chondrichthyan genomes, and their primary structures were analyzed relative to human orthologs. 3D models of GTH/GTHR interaction were built, highlighting the importance of the receptor hinge region for ligand recognition. Functional hormone-receptor interactions have been studied in HEK cells using the small-spotted catshark (Scyliorhinus canicula) recombinant proteins and showed that LHR was specifically activated by LH whereas FSHR was activated by both FSH and LH. Expression profiles of GTHs and their receptors were explored by real-time PCR, in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry during spermatogenesis, along the male genital tract and other tissues, as well as in some female tissues for comparison. Tissue-expression analyses showed that the highest levels were observed for fshr transcripts in testis and ovary and for lhr in specific extragonadal tissues. The two receptors were expressed at all stages of spermatogenesis by both germ cells and somatic cells, including undifferentiated spermatogonia, spermatocytes, spermatids, somatic precursors and Sertoli cells; differentiated Leydig cells being absent in the testis of S. canicula. Receptors were also expressed by the lymphomyeloid epigonal tissue and the testicular tubules. These results, suggest a wide range of gonadotropin-regulated functions in Elasmobranchs, as well as functional redundancy during spermatogenesis. These extended functions are discussed in an evolutionary context in which the specificity of gonadotropin signaling must have contributed to the evolution of gonadal cells' morphology and function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fabian Jeanne
- Université de Caen Normandie, MNHN, SU, UA, CNRS, IRD, Laboratoire de Biologie des Organismes et Ecosystèmes Aquatiques (BOREA), UMR 8067, 14032 Caen cedex 5, France
| | - Stanislas Pilet
- Université de Caen Normandie, MNHN, SU, UA, CNRS, IRD, Laboratoire de Biologie des Organismes et Ecosystèmes Aquatiques (BOREA), UMR 8067, 14032 Caen cedex 5, France
| | - Danièle Klett
- INRAE, CNRS, UMR Physiologie de la Reproduction & des Comportements, 37380 Nouzilly, France
| | - Yves Combarnous
- INRAE, CNRS, UMR Physiologie de la Reproduction & des Comportements, 37380 Nouzilly, France
| | - Benoît Bernay
- Université de Caen Normandie - Plateforme PROTEOGEN, US EMerode, 14032 Caen cedex 5, France
| | - Sylvie Dufour
- Université de Caen Normandie, MNHN, SU, UA, CNRS, IRD, Laboratoire de Biologie des Organismes et Ecosystèmes Aquatiques (BOREA), UMR 8067, 14032 Caen cedex 5, France
| | - Pascal Favrel
- Université de Caen Normandie, MNHN, SU, UA, CNRS, IRD, Laboratoire de Biologie des Organismes et Ecosystèmes Aquatiques (BOREA), UMR 8067, 14032 Caen cedex 5, France
| | - Pascal Sourdaine
- Université de Caen Normandie, MNHN, SU, UA, CNRS, IRD, Laboratoire de Biologie des Organismes et Ecosystèmes Aquatiques (BOREA), UMR 8067, 14032 Caen cedex 5, France.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Porceddu R, Porcu C, Mulas G, Spiga S, Follesa MC. Ontogenetic changes in the tyrosine hydroxylase immunoreactive preoptic area in the small-spotted catshark Scyliorhinus canicula (L., 1758) females: catecholaminergic involvement in sexual maturation. Front Neuroanat 2024; 17:1301651. [PMID: 38239387 PMCID: PMC10794776 DOI: 10.3389/fnana.2023.1301651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction The catecholaminergic component of the brain-pituitary-gonadal axis, which mediates the influence of external and internal stimuli on the central nervous system and gonad development in vertebrates, is largely unexplored in Chondrichthyes. We considered Scyliorhinus canicula (L., 1758) females as a model for this vertebrate's class, to assess the involvement of the catecholaminergic system of the brain in its reproduction. Along the S. canicula reproductive cycle, we characterized and evaluated differences in somata morphometry and the number of putative catecholaminergic neurons in two brain nuclei: the periventricular preoptic nucleus, hypothesized to be a positive control for ovarian development, and the suprachiasmatic nucleus, examined as a negative control. Materials and methods 16 S. canicula wild females were sampled and grouped in maturity stages (immature, maturing, mature, and mature egg-laying). The ovary was histologically processed for the qualitative description of maturity stages. Anti-tyrosine hydroxylase immunofluorescence was performed on the diencephalic brain sections. The immunoreactive somata were investigated for morphometry and counted using the optical fractionator method, throughout the confocal microscopy. Results and discussions Qualitative and quantitative research confirmed two separate populations of immunoreactive neurons. The modifications detected in the preoptic nucleus revealed that somata were more numerous, significantly smaller in size, and more excitable during the maturing phase but decreased, becoming slightly bigger and less excitable in the egg-laying stage. This may indicate that the catecholaminergic preoptic nucleus is involved in the control of reproduction, regulating both the onset of puberty and the imminent spawning. In contrast, somata in the suprachiasmatic nucleus grew in size and underwent turnover in morphometry, increasing the total number from the immature-virgin to maturing stage, with similar values in the more advanced maturity stages. These changes were not linked to a reproductive role. These findings provide new valuable information on Chondrichthyes, suggesting the existence of an additional brain system implicated in the integration of internal and environmental cues for reproduction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Riccardo Porceddu
- Sezione di Biologia Animale ed Ecologia, Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita e dell'Ambiente, Università degli Studi di Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
- CoNISMa Consorzio Nazionale Interuniversitario per le Scienze Mare, Rome, Italy
| | - Cristina Porcu
- Sezione di Biologia Animale ed Ecologia, Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita e dell'Ambiente, Università degli Studi di Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
- CoNISMa Consorzio Nazionale Interuniversitario per le Scienze Mare, Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanna Mulas
- Sezione di Biologia Animale ed Ecologia, Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita e dell'Ambiente, Università degli Studi di Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Saturnino Spiga
- Sezione di Biologia Animale ed Ecologia, Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita e dell'Ambiente, Università degli Studi di Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Maria Cristina Follesa
- Sezione di Biologia Animale ed Ecologia, Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita e dell'Ambiente, Università degli Studi di Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
- CoNISMa Consorzio Nazionale Interuniversitario per le Scienze Mare, Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Jeanne F, Bernay B, Sourdaine P. Comparative Proteome Analysis of Four Stages of Spermatogenesis in the Small-Spotted Catshark ( Scyliorhinus canicula), Using High-Resolution NanoLC-ESI-MS/MS. J Proteome Res 2023. [PMID: 37290099 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jproteome.3c00206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is a highly specialized process of cell proliferation and differentiation leading to the production of spermatozoa from spermatogonial stem cells. Due to its testicular anatomy, Scyliorhinus canicula is an interesting model to explore stage-based changes in proteins during spermatogenesis. The proteomes of four testicular zones corresponding to the germinative niche and to spermatocysts (cysts) with spermatogonia (zone A), cysts with spermatocytes (zone B), cysts with young spermatids (zone C), and cysts with late spermatids (zone D) have been analyzed by nanoLC-ESI-MS/MS. Gene ontology and KEGG annotations were also performed. A total of 3346 multiple protein groups were identified. Zone-specific protein analyses highlighted RNA-processing, chromosome-related processes, cilium organization, and cilium activity in zones A, D, C, and D, respectively. Analyses of proteins with zone-dependent abundance revealed processes related to cellular stress, ubiquitin-dependent degradation by the proteasome, post-transcriptional regulation, and regulation of cellular homeostasis. Our results also suggest that the roles of some proteins, such as ceruloplasmin, optineurin, the pregnancy zone protein, PA28β or the Culling-RING ligase 5 complex, as well as some uncharacterized proteins, during spermatogenesis could be further explored. Finally, the study of this shark species allows one to integrate these data in an evolutionary context of the regulation of spermatogenesis. Mass spectrometry data are freely accessible via iProX-integrated Proteome resources (https://www.iprox.cn/) for reuse purposes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fabian Jeanne
- Université de Caen Normandie, MNHN, SU, UA, CNRS, IRD, Laboratoire de Biologie des Organismes et Ecosystèmes Aquatiques (BOREA), UMR 8067, 14032 Caen cedex 5, France
| | - Benoît Bernay
- Université de Caen Normandie - Plateforme PROTEOGEN, US EMerode, 14032 Caen cedex 5, France
| | - Pascal Sourdaine
- Université de Caen Normandie, MNHN, SU, UA, CNRS, IRD, Laboratoire de Biologie des Organismes et Ecosystèmes Aquatiques (BOREA), UMR 8067, 14032 Caen cedex 5, France
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Sailler A, Laidebeure S, Lécu A. EFFECTS OF A GNRH VACCINE AND DESLORELIN ACETATE IMPLANTS IN MALE FRESHWATER STINGRAYS ( POTAMOTRYGON SP.). J Zoo Wildl Med 2023; 54:40-48. [PMID: 36971627 DOI: 10.1638/2022-0090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Very little information is available in veterinary literature concerning chemical contraception in elasmobranchs. To decrease breeding and adverse reproductive behaviors, male Potamotrygon sp., housed in two zoologic institutions, were treated using methods used in other elasmobranchs. Four animals received deslorelin acetate implants (Suprelorin 4.7 mg and 9.4 mg), four animals received a gonadotropin-releasing hormone vaccine (Improvac 50-100 µg) twice separated by 1 mon, and two animals were not treated to serve as controls. Health checks, including blood sampling, coelomic ultrasound, and sperm analysis, were performed bimonthly and then monthly over almost 2 yr. Microscopic examination of sperm never revealed any significant change in concentration or motility. Size of testes and seminal vesicles glands did not change significantly after treatment. Plasma testosterone concentrations were stable (∼1 ng/ml) in intact and vaccinated animals throughout the study period. Plasma testosterone level increased significantly after deslorelin implantation and remained very high for at least 13 mon, never returning to initial values. Peak concentration varied according to the deslorelin acetate concentration used. Aggression toward females continued despite the use of contraception. Histopathologic examination on dead stingrays revealed active testicular tissue. These results suggest that deslorelin acetate implants and GnRH vaccine are ineffective at dosages used in our cases. Implants caused a continuous stimulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis that could be harmful for the animals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Alexis Lécu
- Parc Zoologique de Paris, 75012 Paris, France
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Takahashi T, Ogiwara K. cAMP signaling in ovarian physiology in teleosts: A review. Cell Signal 2023; 101:110499. [PMID: 36273754 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2022.110499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Revised: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Ovarian function in teleosts, like in other vertebrates, is regulated by two distinct gonadotropins, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). Gonadotropin effects are mediated by membrane-bound G protein-coupled receptors localized on the surface of follicle cells. Gonadotropin receptor activation results in increased intracellular cAMP, the most important second cellular signaling molecule. FSH stimulation induces the production of 17β-estradiol in the cells of growing follicles to promote vitellogenesis in oocytes. In contrast, in response to LH, fully grown post-vitellogenic follicles gain the ability to synthesize maturation-inducing steroids, which induce meiotic resumption and ovulation. All these events were induced downstream of cAMP. In this review, we summarize studies addressing the role of the cAMP pathway in gonadotropin-induced processes in teleost ovarian follicles. Furthermore, we discuss future problems concerning cAMP signaling in relation to teleost ovarian function and the differences and similarities in the gonadotropin-induced cAMP signaling pathways between mammals and teleosts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Takayuki Takahashi
- Laboratory of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Faculty of Science, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-0810, Japan
| | - Katsueki Ogiwara
- Laboratory of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Faculty of Science, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-0810, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Inoue T, Shimoyama K, Saito M, Wong MKS, Ikeba K, Nozu R, Matsumoto R, Murakumo K, Sato K, Tokunaga K, Kofuji K, Takagi W, Hyodo S. Long-term monitoring of egg-laying cycle using ultrasonography reveals the reproductive dynamics of circulating sex steroids in an oviparous catshark, Scyliorhinus torazame. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2022; 327:114076. [PMID: 35710034 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2022.114076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2022] [Revised: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The many diverse reproductive strategies of elasmobranchs (sharks, skates and rays) from lecithotrophic oviparity to matrotrophic viviparity have attracted significant research attention. However, the endocrine control of elasmobranch reproduction is less well-documented largely due to their reproductive characteristics, such as a long reproductive cycle, and/or repeated internal fertilization using stored sperm in oviparous species. In the present study, for the first time, we succeeded in non-invasive monitoring of the continuing egg-laying cycle of the cloudy catshark Scyliorhinus torazame using portable ultrasound devices. Furthermore, long-term simultaneous monitoring of the egg-laying cycle and measurement of plasma sex steroids revealed cycling patterns of estradiol-17β (E2), testosterone (T) and progesterone (P4). In particular, a decline in T followed by a reciprocal surge in plasma P4 were consistently observed prior to the appearance of the capsulated eggs, implying that P4 is likely associated with the ovulation and/or egg-case formation. While the cycling pattern of E2 was not as apparent as those of T and P4, threshold levels of E2 (>5 ng/mL) and T (>1 ng/mL) appeared to be crucial in the continuation of egg-laying cycle. The possibility to trace the dynamics of plasma sex steroids in a single individual throughout the reproductive cycles makes the catshark a useful model for regulatory and mechanistic studies of elasmobranch reproduction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Takuto Inoue
- Laboratory of Physiology, Atmosphere and Ocean Research Institute, The University of Tokyo, 5-1-5 Kashiwanoha, Kashiwa, Chiba 277-8564, Japan
| | - Koya Shimoyama
- Laboratory of Physiology, Atmosphere and Ocean Research Institute, The University of Tokyo, 5-1-5 Kashiwanoha, Kashiwa, Chiba 277-8564, Japan
| | - Momoko Saito
- Laboratory of Physiology, Atmosphere and Ocean Research Institute, The University of Tokyo, 5-1-5 Kashiwanoha, Kashiwa, Chiba 277-8564, Japan
| | - Marty Kwok-Shing Wong
- Laboratory of Physiology, Atmosphere and Ocean Research Institute, The University of Tokyo, 5-1-5 Kashiwanoha, Kashiwa, Chiba 277-8564, Japan
| | - Kiriko Ikeba
- Laboratory of Physiology, Atmosphere and Ocean Research Institute, The University of Tokyo, 5-1-5 Kashiwanoha, Kashiwa, Chiba 277-8564, Japan
| | - Ryo Nozu
- Okinawa Churashima Research Center, Okinawa Churashima Foundation, 888 Ishikawa, Motobu, Okinawa 905-0206, Japan
| | - Rui Matsumoto
- Okinawa Churashima Research Center, Okinawa Churashima Foundation, 888 Ishikawa, Motobu, Okinawa 905-0206, Japan; Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, 424 Ishikawa, Motobu, Okinawa 905-0206, Japan
| | - Kiyomi Murakumo
- Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, 424 Ishikawa, Motobu, Okinawa 905-0206, Japan
| | - Keiichi Sato
- Okinawa Churashima Research Center, Okinawa Churashima Foundation, 888 Ishikawa, Motobu, Okinawa 905-0206, Japan; Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, 424 Ishikawa, Motobu, Okinawa 905-0206, Japan
| | - Kotaro Tokunaga
- Ibaraki Prefectural Oarai Aquarium, Oarai, Ibaraki 311-1301, Japan
| | - Kazuya Kofuji
- Ibaraki Prefectural Oarai Aquarium, Oarai, Ibaraki 311-1301, Japan
| | - Wataru Takagi
- Laboratory of Physiology, Atmosphere and Ocean Research Institute, The University of Tokyo, 5-1-5 Kashiwanoha, Kashiwa, Chiba 277-8564, Japan
| | - Susumu Hyodo
- Laboratory of Physiology, Atmosphere and Ocean Research Institute, The University of Tokyo, 5-1-5 Kashiwanoha, Kashiwa, Chiba 277-8564, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Rangel BS, Moreira RG, Rider MJ, Sulikowski JA, Gallagher AJ, Heithaus MR, Cooke SJ, Kaufman L, Hammerschlag N. Physiological state predicts space use of sharks at a tourism provisioning site. Anim Behav 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anbehav.2022.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
|
8
|
Marongiu MF, Porcu C, Pascale N, Bellodi A, Cau A, Mulas A, Pesci P, Porceddu R, Follesa MC. A Taxonomic Survey of Female Oviducal Glands in Chondrichthyes: A Comparative Overview of Microanatomy in the Two Reproductive Modes. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11092653. [PMID: 34573616 PMCID: PMC8471067 DOI: 10.3390/ani11092653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Revised: 09/02/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Oviducal glands (OGs) are distinct expanded regions of the anterior portion of the oviduct, commonly found in chondrichthyans, which play a key role in the production of the egg in-vestments and in the female sperm storage (FSS). The FSS phenomenon has implications for understanding the reproductive ecology and management of exploited populations, but little information is available on its taxonomic extent. For the first time, mature OGs from three lecithotrophic oviparous and four yolk-sac viviparous species, all considered at risk from the fishing impacts in the central western Mediterranean Sea, were examined using light microscopy. The OG microanatomy, whose morphology is generally conserved in all species, shows differences within the two reproductive modalities. Oviparous species show a more developed baffle zone in respect to viviparous ones because of the production of different egg envelopes produced. Among oviparous species, Raja polystigma and Chimaera monstrosa show presence of sperm, but not sperm storage as observed, instead, in Galeus melastomus and in all the viviparous sharks, which preserve sperm inside of specialized structures in the terminal zone.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Martina Francesca Marongiu
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita e dell’Ambiente, Università degli Studi di Cagliari, Via Tommaso Fiorelli 1, 09126 Cagliari, Italy; (N.P.); (A.B.); (A.C.); (A.M.); (P.P.); (R.P.); (M.C.F.)
- Consorzio Nazionale Interuniversitario per le Scienze Mare (CoNISMa), Piazzale Flaminio 9, 00196 Roma, Italy
- Correspondence: (M.F.M.); (C.P.)
| | - Cristina Porcu
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita e dell’Ambiente, Università degli Studi di Cagliari, Via Tommaso Fiorelli 1, 09126 Cagliari, Italy; (N.P.); (A.B.); (A.C.); (A.M.); (P.P.); (R.P.); (M.C.F.)
- Consorzio Nazionale Interuniversitario per le Scienze Mare (CoNISMa), Piazzale Flaminio 9, 00196 Roma, Italy
- Correspondence: (M.F.M.); (C.P.)
| | - Noemi Pascale
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita e dell’Ambiente, Università degli Studi di Cagliari, Via Tommaso Fiorelli 1, 09126 Cagliari, Italy; (N.P.); (A.B.); (A.C.); (A.M.); (P.P.); (R.P.); (M.C.F.)
| | - Andrea Bellodi
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita e dell’Ambiente, Università degli Studi di Cagliari, Via Tommaso Fiorelli 1, 09126 Cagliari, Italy; (N.P.); (A.B.); (A.C.); (A.M.); (P.P.); (R.P.); (M.C.F.)
- Consorzio Nazionale Interuniversitario per le Scienze Mare (CoNISMa), Piazzale Flaminio 9, 00196 Roma, Italy
| | - Alessandro Cau
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita e dell’Ambiente, Università degli Studi di Cagliari, Via Tommaso Fiorelli 1, 09126 Cagliari, Italy; (N.P.); (A.B.); (A.C.); (A.M.); (P.P.); (R.P.); (M.C.F.)
- Consorzio Nazionale Interuniversitario per le Scienze Mare (CoNISMa), Piazzale Flaminio 9, 00196 Roma, Italy
| | - Antonello Mulas
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita e dell’Ambiente, Università degli Studi di Cagliari, Via Tommaso Fiorelli 1, 09126 Cagliari, Italy; (N.P.); (A.B.); (A.C.); (A.M.); (P.P.); (R.P.); (M.C.F.)
- Consorzio Nazionale Interuniversitario per le Scienze Mare (CoNISMa), Piazzale Flaminio 9, 00196 Roma, Italy
| | - Paola Pesci
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita e dell’Ambiente, Università degli Studi di Cagliari, Via Tommaso Fiorelli 1, 09126 Cagliari, Italy; (N.P.); (A.B.); (A.C.); (A.M.); (P.P.); (R.P.); (M.C.F.)
- Consorzio Nazionale Interuniversitario per le Scienze Mare (CoNISMa), Piazzale Flaminio 9, 00196 Roma, Italy
| | - Riccardo Porceddu
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita e dell’Ambiente, Università degli Studi di Cagliari, Via Tommaso Fiorelli 1, 09126 Cagliari, Italy; (N.P.); (A.B.); (A.C.); (A.M.); (P.P.); (R.P.); (M.C.F.)
| | - Maria Cristina Follesa
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita e dell’Ambiente, Università degli Studi di Cagliari, Via Tommaso Fiorelli 1, 09126 Cagliari, Italy; (N.P.); (A.B.); (A.C.); (A.M.); (P.P.); (R.P.); (M.C.F.)
- Consorzio Nazionale Interuniversitario per le Scienze Mare (CoNISMa), Piazzale Flaminio 9, 00196 Roma, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Schoen AN, Bouyoucos IA, Anderson WG, Wheaton CJ, Planes S, Mylniczenko ND, Rummer JL. Simulated heatwave and fishing stressors alter corticosteroid and energy balance in neonate blacktip reef sharks, Carcharhinus melanopterus. CONSERVATION PHYSIOLOGY 2021; 9:coab067. [PMID: 34457309 PMCID: PMC8395585 DOI: 10.1093/conphys/coab067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2021] [Revised: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The increasing frequency and duration of marine heatwaves attributed to climate change threatens coastal elasmobranchs and may exacerbate existing anthropogenic stressors. While the elasmobranch stress response has been well studied, the role of the unique corticosteroid-1α-hydroxycorticosterone (1α-OHB)-in energy balance is not understood. Therefore, 1α-OHB's utility as a stress biomarker in elasmobranch conservation physiology is equivocal. Here, we analyse the roles of corticosteroids, 1α-OHB and corticosterone, and metabolites, glucose and 3-hydroxybutyrate (3-HB), in response to stress in a protected tropical shark species, the blacktip reef shark (Carcharhinus melanopterus). Wild-caught neonates were exposed to ambient (27°C) or heatwave conditions (29°C) and subsequently a simulated fishing stressor (1 min air exposure). Blood samples were taken prior to temperature exposure, prior to air exposure, and 30 min, 1 h, 24 h, and 48 h post-air exposure at treatment temperatures. Plasma 1α-OHB was elevated for 48 h in 27°C-exposed sharks but declined over time in 29°C-exposed sharks. Plasma 1α-OHB was not correlated with either metabolite. Plasma glucose was higher and plasma 3-HB was lower in 29°C-exposed sharks. In a separate experiment, blood samples were collected from both neonate and adult sharks immediately following capture and again 5 min later, and analysed for corticosteroids and metabolites. Plasma 1α-OHB increased in neonates within 5 min, but neonates displayed lower plasma 1α-OHB and higher glucose concentrations than adults. We conclude that 1α-OHB does not serve as a classic glucocorticoid role in C. melanopterus under these stressors. Furthermore, we show for the first time, ontogenetic differences in plasma 1α-OHB. Ultimately, our findings provide insights into hormonal control of energy mobilization during stress in C. melanopterus, particularly during simulated heatwave conditions, which seem to alter both endocrine and energy mobilization. Further work is needed to determine the utility of 1α-OHB as a biomarker for the mobilization of energy during a stress event in elasmobranchs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra N Schoen
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Manitoba, 50 Sifton Road, Winnipeg, Manitoba, R3T 2N2, Canada
| | - Ian A Bouyoucos
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland, 4811, Australia
- PSL Research University, EPHE-UPVD-CNRS, USR 3278 CRIOBE, Université de Perpignan, 58 Avenue Paul Alduy, 66860 Perpignan Cedex, France
| | - W Gary Anderson
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Manitoba, 50 Sifton Road, Winnipeg, Manitoba, R3T 2N2, Canada
| | - Catharine J Wheaton
- Disney Animals, Science and Environment, Disney’s Animal Kingdom® and the Seas with Nemo and Friends®, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830, USA
| | - Serge Planes
- PSL Research University, EPHE-UPVD-CNRS, USR 3278 CRIOBE, Université de Perpignan, 58 Avenue Paul Alduy, 66860 Perpignan Cedex, France
- Laboratoire d’Excellence ‘CORAIL’, EPHE, PSL Research University, UPVD, CNRS, USR 3278 CRIOBE, Papetoai, Moorea, French Polynesia
| | - Natalie D Mylniczenko
- Disney Animals, Science and Environment, Disney’s Animal Kingdom® and the Seas with Nemo and Friends®, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830, USA
| | - Jodie L Rummer
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland, 4811, Australia
- College of Science and Engineering, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland, 4811, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Physiological markers suggest energetic and nutritional adjustments in male sharks linked to reproduction. Oecologia 2021; 196:989-1004. [PMID: 34328556 DOI: 10.1007/s00442-021-04999-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2020] [Accepted: 07/21/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Energetic condition is one of the most important factors that influence fitness and reproductive performance in vertebrates. Yet, we lack evidence on how energetic states change in response to reproduction in large marine vertebrates. In the present study, we used a non-lethal approach to assess relationships among reproductive stage, circulating steroid hormones (testosterone and relative corticosteroid levels), plasma fatty acids, and the ketone body β-hydroxybutyrate in male sharks of two species with divergent ecologies, the benthic nurse shark (Ginglymostoma cirratum) and the epipelagic blacktip shark (Carcharhinus limbatus). We found higher relative corticosteroid levels in adult nurse sharks during the pre-mating period and in blacktip sharks during the mating period. Higher levels of β-hydroxybutyrate were found in adult nurse sharks during the mating period, but concentrations of this ketone body did not significantly vary across reproductive stages in blacktip sharks. We also detected reduced percentages of essential fatty acids during the mating period of both nurse and blacktip sharks. Taken together, our findings suggest that nurse and blacktip sharks differ in their energetic strategy to support reproduction, however, they likely rely on physiologically important fatty acids during mating, to support spermatogenesis.
Collapse
|
11
|
Sun H, Bao X, Yao X, Gopinath SCB, Min Y. Aptasensing luteinizing hormone to determine gynecological endocrine complications on graphene oxide layered sensor. Biotechnol Appl Biochem 2021; 69:1509-1516. [PMID: 34278604 DOI: 10.1002/bab.2223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 07/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Luteinizing hormone (LH)/lutropin is an interstitial cell-stimulating hormone playing a predominant role in the reproductive system, and highly correlated with the infertility treatment in both men and women. This research was concentrated to quantify LH level by using interdigitated electrode sensor. To improve the electric current flow, sensing electrode was modified with graphene oxide (GO) and the aptamer probe was attached on GO through biotin-streptavidin linker. Current responses were measured with aptamer-LH interaction at the target concentrations between 7.5 nM and 1 μM and the detection limit of LH was calculated as 60 nM with the determination coefficient (R2 ) value, 0.9229 [y = 1.296x - 2.8435] on a linear range from 30 nM to 1 μM. Further, biofouling effect on sensing electrode surface was analyzed with complementary aptamer sequence, control proteins (albumin and globulin). The above GO-aptamer-modified interdigitated electrode sensor helps to quantify LH level and diagnose gynecological endocrinology-related complications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Huanhuan Sun
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Harbin Red Cross Central Hospital, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Xiucui Bao
- Department of Obstetrics, Yihe Maternity District of Cangzhou People's Hospital, Cangzhou, Hebei, China
| | - Xiaoling Yao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yihe Maternity District of Cangzhou People's Hospital, Cangzhou, Hebei, China
| | - Subash C B Gopinath
- Institute of Nano Electronic Engineering, Universiti Malaysia Perlis (UniMAP), Kangar, Perlis, 01000, Malaysia.,Faculty of Chemical Engineering Technology, Universiti Malaysia Perlis (UniMAP), Arau, Perlis, 02600, Malaysia
| | - Yifei Min
- Department of Gynecology, Changzhou No. 2 People's Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou, Jiangsu, 213003, China
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Verkamp HJ, Skomal G, Winton M, Sulikowski JA. Using reproductive hormone concentrations from the muscle of white sharks Carcharodon carcharias to evaluate reproductive status in the Northwest Atlantic Ocean. ENDANGER SPECIES RES 2021. [DOI: 10.3354/esr01109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Novel, non-lethal approaches are needed to improve our current understanding of the reproductive biology and ecology of the white shark Carcharodon carcharias. Previous studies have demonstrated that concentrations of reproductive hormones in muscle tissue can be used as reliable indicators of reproductive status for many vertebrate species, including elasmobranchs. Here, we applied this method to assess the concentrations of testosterone (T) and estradiol (E2) in muscle biopsies from free-swimming white sharks at a known aggregation site off the coast of Cape Cod, Massachusetts (USA), in the Northwest Atlantic Ocean, to determine whether this technique could be used to evaluate the reproductive status of this species. A total of 14 muscle samples from 13 white sharks (7 males [1 sampled twice], 6 females), ranging in size from 3.3 to 4.2 m total length, were analyzed for this study. T and E2 were present in sufficient amounts to be quantified in 7 of the 8 (87.5%) male and 1 of the 6 (16.7%) female samples, respectively. As expected, most samples collected from immature individuals were below minimum detection thresholds. Hormone concentrations in males presumed to be adults were also generally low, suggesting these individuals were not actively producing sperm at the time of sample collection. Overall, the results herein are similar to those found in other species and indicate that concentrations of hormones in the skeletal muscle of subadult and adult white sharks can provide information on the reproductive status of individuals. This technique could have wide-ranging applications for the study of white shark reproduction in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- HJ Verkamp
- Department of Marine Sciences, University of New England, Biddeford, ME 04005, USA
| | - G Skomal
- Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries, New Bedford, MA 02744, USA
| | - M Winton
- Atlantic White Shark Conservancy, Chatham, MA 02650, USA
| | - JA Sulikowski
- School of Mathematical and Natural Sciences, Arizona State University, Glendale, AZ 85306, USA
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Zhang X, Shen Z, Su W, Wu H, Gopinath SC, Chen R. Gold nanoparticle assembly and disassembly in colorimetric immunoassay to detect 17β-estradiol and determine gynecological disorder. Process Biochem 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.procbio.2020.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
|
14
|
Becerril-García EE, Arellano-Martínez M, Bernot-Simon D, Hoyos-Padilla EM, Galván-Magaña F, Godard-Codding C. Steroid hormones and chondrichthyan reproduction: physiological functions, scientific research, and implications for conservation. PeerJ 2020. [DOI: 10.7717/peerj.9686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The study of the reproductive aspects of chondrichthyans through the analysis of steroid hormones has been carried out for more than five decades in several species around the world. This scientific knowledge constitutes the basis of the reproductive endocrinology of chondrichthyans, which has provided information regarding their sexual maturation, gametogenesis, mating seasons, gestation periods, and parturition. The present review summarises the existing literature on steroid hormones in chondrichthyan reproduction and identifies future research directions addressing critical knowledge gaps in the reproductive physiology of this taxon. A total of 59 peer reviewed scientific papers from 1963 to 2020 were reviewed and the following parameters analysed: species, steroid hormones, biological matrix, field sampling (year, location), and methodology (assays, sample size, precision, and recoveries). We provided a summary of the methods, biological matrices, and the functions of up to 19 hormones on the biology of 34 species of chondrichthyans that have been analysed to date. The majority of the studies used radioimmunoassay as the main methodology (76.3%; n = 45/49); while the most frequent biological matrix used was plasma (69.5%; n = 41/49). A Kernel’s heat map was generated to present the scientific effort according to geographic location and evidenced a lack of research in high biodiversity areas for chondrichthyans worldwide. The implications of the study of steroid hormones for the conservation of chondrichthyans are discussed, as only 2.9% of the species of this group have been analysed and most of the scientific effort (93.2%; n = 55/59 papers) has focused on the analysis of less than six hormones.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Daniela Bernot-Simon
- Departamento Académico de Ciencias Marinas y Costeras, Universidad Autónoma de Baja California Sur, La Paz, Mexico
| | | | - Felipe Galván-Magaña
- Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Centro Interdisciplinario de Ciencias Marinas, La Paz, Mexico
| | - Céline Godard-Codding
- The Institute of Environmental and Human Health, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX, USA
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Martins MF, Rolim FA, Gadig OBF. Report on fetal mummification in the scalloped hammerhead shark Sphyrna lewini. JOURNAL OF FISH BIOLOGY 2020; 97:309-313. [PMID: 32367559 DOI: 10.1111/jfb.14368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2019] [Revised: 04/18/2020] [Accepted: 05/01/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
This study describes the fetal mummification process in two embryos of a 310 cm total length scalloped hammerhead shark Sphyrna lewini caught in southeastern Brazil, in December 2017. Fourteen embryos were observed in total, in which two males in the left uterus presented different stages of mummification. Both mummified embryos were covered by an exudate (i.e., a mucous substance), indicating a hematic mummification process. All embryos were at the placentotrophic stage of development, indicating that they were close to parturition. An intrinsic characteristic is suggested as possible etiology for this condition, such as umbilical torsion, because both embryos were at different sizes and, therefore, at different development stages. In addition, the sample size did not allow the authors to presume any pollution effect once only one female was observed. Finally, fetal mummification and other embryonic development disorders might have populational impacts due to reduction in embryo survival and, consequently, recruitment. For this reason and considering that S. lewini is categorized as a "critically endangered species," this study's results have conservational relevance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mariana F Martins
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Fisiológicas, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande-FURG, Rio Grande, Brazil
- Laboratório de Pesquisas de Elasmobrânquios, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Estadual Paulista "Júlio de Mesquita Filho", São Vicente, Brazil
| | - Fernanda A Rolim
- Laboratório de Pesquisas de Elasmobrânquios, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Estadual Paulista "Júlio de Mesquita Filho", São Vicente, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas-Zoologia, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Estadual Paulista "Júlio de Mesquita Filho", Rio Claro, Brazil
| | - Otto B F Gadig
- Laboratório de Pesquisas de Elasmobrânquios, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Estadual Paulista "Júlio de Mesquita Filho", São Vicente, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas-Zoologia, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Estadual Paulista "Júlio de Mesquita Filho", Rio Claro, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Fujinami Y, Semba Y. Non-lethal assessment of reproductive stage for female blue sharks Prionace glauca using sex steroid hormones. JOURNAL OF FISH BIOLOGY 2020; 96:1501-1504. [PMID: 32154582 DOI: 10.1111/jfb.14312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2019] [Revised: 03/02/2020] [Accepted: 03/09/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Plasma concentrations of progesterone (P4 ) and 17β-oestradiol (E2 ) in juvenile, pre-ovulatory, early, mid- or late pregnancy stages of female blue sharks Prionace glauca were analysed. Concentrations of P4 were significantly higher in pregnant than in non-pregnant individuals, whereas E2 concentrations increased with embryonic and follicular development. A highly accurate (86.1%) random forest classification model was developed to predict shark pregnancy. It is proposed that hormone concentrations could be used for the subsequent non-lethal determination of female P. glauca reproductive state.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuki Fujinami
- Tuna and Skipjack Resources Department, National Research Institute of Far Seas Fisheries, Japan Fisheries Research and Education Agency, Shimizu, Shizuoka, Japan
| | - Yasuko Semba
- Tuna and Skipjack Resources Department, National Research Institute of Far Seas Fisheries, Japan Fisheries Research and Education Agency, Shimizu, Shizuoka, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Baker ME, Katsu Y. Progesterone: An enigmatic ligand for the mineralocorticoid receptor. Biochem Pharmacol 2020; 177:113976. [PMID: 32305433 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2020.113976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2020] [Accepted: 04/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The progesterone receptor (PR) mediates progesterone regulation of female reproductive physiology, as well as gene transcription in non-reproductive tissues, such as brain, bone, lung and vasculature, in both women and men. An unusual property of progesterone is its high affinity for the mineralocorticoid receptor (MR), which regulates electrolyte transport in the kidney in humans and other terrestrial vertebrates. In humans, rats, alligators and frogs, progesterone antagonizes activation of the MR by aldosterone, the physiological mineralocorticoid in terrestrial vertebrates. In contrast, in elephant shark, ray-finned fishes and chickens, progesterone activates the MR. Interestingly, cartilaginous fishes and ray-finned fishes do not synthesize aldosterone, raising the question of which steroid(s) activate the MR in cartilaginous fishes and ray-finned fishes. The simpler synthesis of progesterone, compared to cortisol and other corticosteroids, makes progesterone a candidate physiological activator of the MR in elephant sharks and ray-finned fishes. Elephant shark and ray-finned fish MRs are expressed in diverse tissues, including heart, brain and lung, as well as, ovary and testis, two reproductive tissues that are targets for progesterone, which together suggests a multi-faceted physiological role for progesterone activation of the MR in elephant shark and ray-finned fish. The functional consequences of progesterone as an antagonist of some terrestrial vertebrate MRs and as an agonist of fish and chicken MRs are not fully understood. The physiological activities of progesterone through binding to vertebrate MRs merits further investigation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael E Baker
- Division of Nephrology-Hypertension, Department of Medicine, 0735, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA 92093-0735, United States.
| | - Yoshinao Katsu
- Graduate School of Life Science, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Elisio M, Awruch CA, Massa AM, Macchi GJ, Somoza GM. Effects of temperature on the reproductive physiology of female elasmobranchs: The case of the narrownose smooth-hound shark (Mustelus schmitti). Gen Comp Endocrinol 2019; 284:113242. [PMID: 31400435 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2019.113242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [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: 04/24/2019] [Revised: 08/06/2019] [Accepted: 08/06/2019] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The knowledge of how temperature influences elasmobranchs reproductive physiology allows a better understanding of their reproductive patterns. This study describes the relationship between temperature fluctuations and the plasmatic changes of the sex steroids related to reproduction: testosterone (T), estradiol (E2) and progesterone (P4), throughout the female reproductive cycle of the shark Mustelus schmitti. A total of 123 adult females were bi-monthly sampled in Buenos Aires, Argentina, coastal waters. Bottom temperatures were recorded at each sampling point and blood samples were taken from each female for plasma sex steroids measurement. Sex steroid plasma levels were analyzed in relation with maximum follicular diameter (MFD), uterosomatic index (USI, as indicator of pregnancy) and temperature using Generalized Additive Models. Plasmatic E2 and T increased during follicular growth until MFD reached 1.34 and 1.46 cm, respectively. Peak of T occurred at the follicular stage associated with parturition (MFD, 1.4-1.6 cm), just prior to final maturation and ovulation (MFD, 1.6-2.0 cm). Progesterone significantly increased at this last ovarian phase, while T and E2 decreased. The increase of USI with pregnancy was associated to a decrease in T and mainly E2 levels, while P4 remained unaffected. Prior to ovulation, T plasma levels decreased with temperature below to 13 °C and then increased progressively with a pronounced elevation above 17 °C, while E2 presented an opposite pattern. Progesterone plasma levels changed with temperature showing a similar pattern to that observed for T. Using M. schmitti shark as model species, this study shows a clear picture of how seawater temperature variations can affect the reproductive physiology in elasmobranch females. A hypothetical mechanism (based on T elevation driven by temperature increase and its connection by feedback with a P4 rise and parturition/ovulation induction) is proposed as evidence to support that the increase in temperature can trigger reproductive events in elasmobranchs. In addition to its ecological scope, this work contributes to reinforce the relatively scarce general knowledge of elasmobranchs reproductive physiology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mariano Elisio
- Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Desarrollo Pesquero, 7600 Mar del Plata, Argentina; Instituto de Investigaciones Marinas y Costeras (CONICET-UNMdP), 7600 Mar del Plata, Argentina.
| | - Cynthia A Awruch
- CESIMAR (Centro Para el Estudio de Sistemas Marinos) - CENPAT - CONICET, U9120ACD Puerto Madryn, Argentina; School of Natural Sciences, University of Tasmania, TAS 7001 Hobart, Australia.
| | - Ana M Massa
- Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Desarrollo Pesquero, 7600 Mar del Plata, Argentina.
| | - Gustavo J Macchi
- Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Desarrollo Pesquero, 7600 Mar del Plata, Argentina; Instituto de Investigaciones Marinas y Costeras (CONICET-UNMdP), 7600 Mar del Plata, Argentina.
| | - Gustavo M Somoza
- Instituto Tecnológico de Chascomús (CONICET-UNSAM), B7130IWA Chascomús, Argentina.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Katsu Y, Kohno S, Oka K, Lin X, Otake S, Pillai NE, Takagi W, Hyodo S, Venkatesh B, Baker ME. Transcriptional activation of elephant shark mineralocorticoid receptor by corticosteroids, progesterone, and spironolactone. Sci Signal 2019; 12:12/584/eaar2668. [DOI: 10.1126/scisignal.aar2668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) is a nuclear receptor and part of a large and diverse family of transcription factors that also includes receptors for glucocorticoids, progesterone, androgens, and estrogens. The corticosteroid aldosterone is the physiological activator of the MR in humans and other terrestrial vertebrates; however, its activator is not known in cartilaginous fish, the oldest group of extant jawed vertebrates. Here, we analyzed the ability of corticosteroids and progesterone to activate the full-length MR from the elephant shark (Callorhinchus milii). On the basis of their measured activities, aldosterone, cortisol, 11-deoxycorticosterone, corticosterone, 11-deoxcortisol, progesterone, and 19-norprogesterone are potential physiological mineralocorticoids. However, aldosterone, the physiological mineralocorticoid in humans and other terrestrial vertebrates, is not found in cartilaginous or ray-finned fish. Although progesterone activates MRs in ray-finned fish, progesterone does not activate MRs in humans, amphibians, or alligator, suggesting that during the transition to terrestrial vertebrates, progesterone lost the ability to activate the MR. Both elephant shark MR and human MR are expressed in the brain, heart, ovary, testis, and other nonepithelial tissues, suggesting that MR expression in diverse tissues evolved in the common ancestor of jawed vertebrates. Our data suggest that 19-norprogesterone– and progesterone-activated MR may have unappreciated functions in reproductive physiology.
Collapse
|
20
|
Awruch CA, Somoza GM, Baldock C. Chondrichthyan research in South America: Endocrinology overview and research trends over 50 years (1967-2016) compared to the rest of the world. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2019; 273:118-133. [PMID: 29913167 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2018.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2018] [Revised: 05/22/2018] [Accepted: 06/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The endocrine system plays a crucial role in regulating the activity of cells and organs among vertebrates, including the class Chondrichthyes. Accordingly, Chondrichthyan endocrinology publications have been steadily increasing in the global literature. However, while interest in South American Chondrichthyan research has been growing over the last 50 years, the field of endocrinology related to Chondrichthyans has been limited. Understanding the trajectory of a scientific discipline assists researchers and stakeholders in making decisions regarding which research areas require further attention. Further, visualisation techniques based on bibliometric analysis of scientific publications assist in understanding fluctuations in the trends of specific research fields over time. In this study, Chondrichthyan research publications over time were analysed by creating visualisation maps using VOSviewer bibliometric software. Trends in South America Chondrichthyan research with an emphasis on endocrinology were explored over a 50-year period (1967-2016). These trends were compared with Chondrichthyans research worldwide for the more recent 15-year period (2002-2016). The number of South America Chondrichthyan scientific publications increased from six during the 1967-1981 period to 112 in 2016. However, only eight papers were found published in the area of Chondrichthyan endocrinology research. Fisheries, reproduction and taxonomy were the dominate research areas in South America over the 50 years. For the more recent 15 years, South American publications comprised 11% of the total literature published globally. While South America research outputs fluctuated closely with global research trends, differences appeared when comparing areas of growth. This study describes the trends in Chondrichthyan research literature globally and more specifically in South America. Although South American countries may never contribute to the same scale as the wider international scientific community, the future of Chondrichthyans would strongly benefit from the contributions of the many diverse research groups around the world.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cynthia A Awruch
- School of Natural Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7001, Australia; CESIMAR (Centro Para el Estudio de Sistemas Marinos) - CENPAT - CONICET, Puerto Madryn, Chubut U9120ACD, Argentina.
| | - Gustavo M Somoza
- IIB-INTECH (CONICET-UNSAM), Chascomús, Provincia de Buenos Aires B7130IWA. Argentina
| | - Clive Baldock
- Research Division, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7004, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Janse M, Luten HA. Contraception within an elasmobranch captive breeding programme: a case report on the eagle ray Aetobatus ocellatus using gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonist deslorelin (Suprelorin). JOURNAL OF FISH BIOLOGY 2019; 94:196-199. [PMID: 30565692 DOI: 10.1111/jfb.13872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2018] [Accepted: 11/15/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
This study describes the first case of contraception within a captive elasmobranch breeding programme where an implant of Suprelorin, containing a long-acting gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) analogue Deslorelin, was implanted in an eagle ray Aetobatus ocellatus, which successfully halted breeding.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Max Janse
- Royal Burgers' Zoo, Arnhem, The Netherlands
| | | |
Collapse
|
22
|
Penfold LM, Wyffels JT. Reproductive Science in Sharks and Rays. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2019; 1200:465-488. [PMID: 31471806 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-23633-5_15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Sharks and rays make up 96% of the class Chondrichthyes. They are among the most endangered of any taxa, threatened through habitat loss, overfishing and hunting for shark fin soup, traditional medicines or sport, and because many species are slow to mature and produce low numbers of offspring. Sharks and rays are ecologically and reproductively diverse, though basic knowledge of their reproductive physiology is lacking for many species. There has been a move towards non-lethal approaches of data collection in sharks and rays, especially with reproductive technologies such as ultrasound and hormone analysis. Additionally, technologies such as semen collection and artificial insemination are lending themselves to develop tools to manage small or closed populations, with cold-stored sperm being shipped between institutions to maximize genetic diversity in managed populations. The role of steroid hormones in elasmobranch reproduction appears broadly conserved, though heavily influenced by environmental cues, especially temperature. For this reason elasmobranchs are likely at risk of reproductive perturbations due to environmental changes such as ocean warming. Current reproductive technologies including computer assisted sperm assessments to study warming effects on sperm motility and intra-uterine satellite tags to determine birthing grounds will serve to generate data to mitigate anthropogenic changes that threaten the future of this vulnerable groups of fish.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Linda M Penfold
- South-East Zoo Alliance for Reproduction & Conservation, Yulee, FL, USA.
| | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Sueiro MC, Awruch CA, Irigoyen AJ, Argemi F, Palacios MG. Seasonality of Immunological and Health-State Parameters of Wild Broadnose Sevengill Shark, Notorynchus cepedianus. Physiol Biochem Zool 2019; 92:24-36. [DOI: 10.1086/700573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
|
24
|
Wosnick N, Awruch CA, Adams KR, Gutierre SMM, Bornatowski H, Prado AC, Freire CA. Impacts of fisheries on elasmobranch reproduction: high rates of abortion and subsequent maternal mortality in the shortnose guitarfish. Anim Conserv 2018. [DOI: 10.1111/acv.12458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- N. Wosnick
- Departamento de Fisiologia Universidade Federal do Paraná Curitiba Brazil
| | - C. A. Awruch
- School of Natural Sciences University of Tasmania Hobart Australia
- CESIMAR (Centro Para el Estudio de Sistemas Marinos) – CENPAT‐CONICET Puerto Madryn Argentina
| | - K. R. Adams
- School of Biological Sciences University of Wollongong Wollongong NSW Australia
| | - S. M. M. Gutierre
- Departamento de Fisiologia Universidade Federal do Paraná Curitiba Brazil
| | - H. Bornatowski
- Centro de Estudos do Mar Universidade Federal do Paraná Pontal do Paraná Brazil
| | - A. C. Prado
- Departamento de Fisiologia Universidade Federal do Paraná Curitiba Brazil
| | - C. A. Freire
- Departamento de Fisiologia Universidade Federal do Paraná Curitiba Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Gaillard AL, Tay BH, Pérez Sirkin DI, Lafont AG, De Flori C, Vissio PG, Mazan S, Dufour S, Venkatesh B, Tostivint H. Characterization of Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH) Genes From Cartilaginous Fish: Evolutionary Perspectives. Front Neurosci 2018; 12:607. [PMID: 30237760 PMCID: PMC6135963 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2018.00607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2018] [Accepted: 08/10/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The neuropeptide gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) plays an important role in the control of reproductive functions. Vertebrates possess multiple GnRH forms that are classified into three main groups, namely GnRH1, GnRH2, and GnRH3. In order to gain more insights into the GnRH gene family in vertebrates, we sought to identify which paralogs of this family are present in cartilaginous fish. For this purpose, we searched the genomes and/or transcriptomes of three representative species of this group, the small-spotted catshark, Scyliorhinus canicula, the whale shark, Rhincodon typus and the elephant shark Callorhinchus milii. In each species, we report the identification of three GnRH genes. In catshark and whale shark, phylogenetic and synteny analysis showed that these three genes correspond to GnRH1, GnRH2, and GnRH3. In both species, GnRH1 was found to encode a novel form of GnRH whose primary structure was determined as follows: QHWSFDLRPG. In elephant shark, the three genes correspond to GnRH1a and GnRH1b, two copies of the GnRH1 gene, plus GnRH2. 3D structure prediction of the chondrichthyan GnRH-associated peptides (GAPs) revealed that catshark GAP1, GAP2, and elephant shark GAP2 peptides exhibit a helix-loop-helix (HLH) structure. This structure observed for many osteichthyan GAP1 and GAP2, may convey GAP biological activity. This HLH structure could not be observed for elephant shark GAP1a and GAP1b. As for all other GAP3 described so far, no typical 3D HLH structure was observed for catshark nor whale shark GAP3. RT-PCR analysis revealed that GnRH1, GnRH2, and GnRH3 genes are differentially expressed in the catshark brain. GnRH1 mRNA appeared predominant in the diencephalon while GnRH2 and GnRH3 mRNAs seemed to be most abundant in the mesencephalon and telencephalon, respectively. Taken together, our results show that the GnRH gene repertoire of the vertebrate ancestor was entirely conserved in the chondrichthyan lineage but that the GnRH3 gene was probably lost in holocephali. They also suggest that the three GnRH neuronal systems previously described in the brain of bony vertebrates are also present in cartilaginous fish.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anne-Laure Gaillard
- Evolution des Régulations Endocriniennes UMR 7221 CNRS, Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, Paris, France
| | - Boon-Hui Tay
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, A∗STAR, Biopolis, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Daniela I Pérez Sirkin
- Laboratorio de Neuroendocrinología del Crecimiento y la Reproducción, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, DBBE/IBBEA-CONICET, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Anne-Gaëlle Lafont
- Biologie des Organismes et Ecosystèmes Aquatiques, CNRS, Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
| | - Céline De Flori
- Evolution des Régulations Endocriniennes UMR 7221 CNRS, Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, Paris, France
| | - Paula G Vissio
- Laboratorio de Neuroendocrinología del Crecimiento y la Reproducción, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, DBBE/IBBEA-CONICET, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Sylvie Mazan
- Biologie Intégrative des Organismes Marins, UMR 7232 CNRS, Observatoire Océanologique, Sorbonne Université, Banyuls-sur-Mer, France
| | - Sylvie Dufour
- Biologie des Organismes et Ecosystèmes Aquatiques, CNRS, Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
| | - Byrappa Venkatesh
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, A∗STAR, Biopolis, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Hervé Tostivint
- Evolution des Régulations Endocriniennes UMR 7221 CNRS, Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, Paris, France
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Nozu R, Murakumo K, Yano N, Furuyama R, Matsumoto R, Yanagisawa M, Sato K. Changes in sex steroid hormone levels reflect the reproductive status of captive female zebra sharks (Stegostoma fasciatum). Gen Comp Endocrinol 2018; 265:174-179. [PMID: 29510152 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2018.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2017] [Revised: 03/02/2018] [Accepted: 03/02/2018] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Captive breeding in aquaria is a useful means for ex situ preservation of threatened elasmobranch species. To promote captive breeding, it is important to determine the female reproductive status. However, information regarding reproductive status in female elasmobranchs is limited. Here, we used zebra sharks, Stegostoma fasciatum, as a model for elasmobranch reproduction in captivity. We investigated the relationships among changes in the sex steroid hormone levels, follicle size, and egg-laying period to develop indicators for the female reproductive status. We confirmed that mature female zebra sharks undergo an annual reproductive cycle. Additionally, we showed that the variations in sex steroid hormone levels correlated with reproductive status in mature female zebra sharks. Plasma estradiol-17ß (E2) concentrations increased two months before ovarian follicle development and decreased along with follicle regression. Interestingly, E2 levels were inversely correlated with water temperature (R = -0.901). Moreover, high levels of testosterone (T) correlated well with the laying period. These results strongly suggest that E2 is an indicator for ovarian follicle development, and that T is a useful indicator for both the onset and end of the egg-laying period in captive zebra sharks.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ryo Nozu
- Okinawa Churashima Research Center, Okinawa Churashima Foundation, 888 Ishikawa, Motobu, Okinawa 905-0206, Japan.
| | - Kiyomi Murakumo
- Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, 424 Ishikawa, Motobu, Okinawa 905-0206, Japan
| | - Nagisa Yano
- Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, 424 Ishikawa, Motobu, Okinawa 905-0206, Japan
| | - Rina Furuyama
- Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, 424 Ishikawa, Motobu, Okinawa 905-0206, Japan
| | - Rui Matsumoto
- Okinawa Churashima Research Center, Okinawa Churashima Foundation, 888 Ishikawa, Motobu, Okinawa 905-0206, Japan; Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, 424 Ishikawa, Motobu, Okinawa 905-0206, Japan
| | - Makio Yanagisawa
- Okinawa Churashima Research Center, Okinawa Churashima Foundation, 888 Ishikawa, Motobu, Okinawa 905-0206, Japan; Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, 424 Ishikawa, Motobu, Okinawa 905-0206, Japan
| | - Keiichi Sato
- Okinawa Churashima Research Center, Okinawa Churashima Foundation, 888 Ishikawa, Motobu, Okinawa 905-0206, Japan; Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, 424 Ishikawa, Motobu, Okinawa 905-0206, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Diagnostic assessment of reproductive status in white-spotted bamboo sharks (Chiloscyllium plagiosum). Anim Reprod Sci 2018; 197:48-57. [PMID: 30170880 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2018.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2018] [Revised: 07/23/2018] [Accepted: 08/07/2018] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Relatively little is known about elasmobranch reproductive physiology compared to other species. An increased understanding of elasmobranch reproduction would improve the success of captive breeding and may aid in situ conservation efforts by reducing demand for wild-caught individuals. The reproductive status of seven adult female white-spotted bamboo sharks (Chiloscyllium plagiosum) (WSB) was monitored via coelomic ultrasonography and analysis of plasma biochemistry and steroid hormones over 6 months. Based on ultrasonic findings, females were categorized at each blood collection time point as: no follicular activity (INACTIVE), follicles but no eggs present (ACTIVE-OVARY), and eggs present within the oviduct (ACTIVE-OVIDUCT). Triglyceride concentrations were greater for those with the ACTIVE-OVARY (75.98 mg/dL; CI 61.81-90.15 mg/dL) and ACTIVE-OVIDUCT (87.0 mg/dL; CI 70.20 to 103.81 mg/dL) categories than INACTIVE (51.81 mg/dL; CI 37.07-66.54 mg/dL) category. No significant differences were observed for PCV, total solids, calcium, phosphorus, iron or progesterone. Estradiol concentrations were less for the INACTIVE (0.15 ng/ml; CI 0.08 to 0.25 ng/ml) than ACTIVE-OVARY (0.63 ng/ml; CI 0.42 to 0.88 ng/ml) and ACTIVE-OVIDUCT (0.92 ng/ml; CI 0.64-1.26 ng/ml) category. Testosterone concentrations differed among reproductive states, being greater with the INACTIVE (0.22 ng/ml; CI 0.13 to 0.37 ng/ml) and peaking in the ACTIVE-OVIDUCT (2.12 ng/ml; CI 1.25-3.60 ng/ml) state. The ultrasonic technique was performed in a standardized manner, and the anatomy was validated via opportunistic post-mortem examinations and MRI. Using the described diagnostic techniques, reproductive status in WSB can be routinely monitored, and findings have implications for improving the success of captive breeding efforts in other elasmobranch species.
Collapse
|
28
|
Buechi HB, Bridgham JT. Evolution of specificity in cartilaginous fish glycoprotein hormones and receptors. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2017; 246:309-320. [PMID: 28062301 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2017.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2016] [Revised: 12/01/2016] [Accepted: 01/02/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Glycoprotein hormones (GpH) interact very specifically with their receptors to mediate hypothalamic-pituitary-peripheral gland endocrine signaling. Vertebrates typically have three functionally distinct GpH endocrine signaling complexes: follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, and thyroid-stimulating hormone, and their receptors. Each hormone consists of a common α subunit bound to one of three different β subunits. Individual hormone subunits and receptors are present in genomes of early metazoans, and a subset of hormone subunits and receptors has been recently characterized in sea lamprey. However, it remains unclear when the full complement of hormone and receptor protein families first appeared, and when specificity of interactions between GpH hormones and receptors first evolved. Here we present phylogenetic analyses showing that the elephant shark (Callorhinchus milii) genome contains sequences representing the current diversity of all hormone subunits and receptors in these co-evolving protein families. We examined specificity of hormone and receptor interactions using functional assays testing reporter gene activation by elephant shark follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, and thyroid-stimulating hormone receptors. We show highly specific, dose-responsive hormone interactions for all three complexes. Our results suggest that co-evolution of specificity between proteins in these endocrine signaling complexes occurred prior to the divergence of Chondrichthyes from the chordate lineage.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hanna B Buechi
- Institute of Ecology and Evolution, University of Oregon, Eugene, OR 97403, USA
| | - Jamie T Bridgham
- Institute of Ecology and Evolution, University of Oregon, Eugene, OR 97403, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Guida L, Awruch C, Walker TI, Reina RD. Prenatal stress from trawl capture affects mothers and neonates: a case study using the southern fiddler ray (Trygonorrhina dumerilii). Sci Rep 2017; 7:46300. [PMID: 28401959 PMCID: PMC5388872 DOI: 10.1038/srep46300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2016] [Accepted: 03/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Assessing fishing effects on chondrichthyan populations has predominantly focused on quantifying mortality rates. Consequently, sub-lethal effects of capture stress on the reproductive capacity of chondrichthyans are largely unknown. We investigated the reproductive consequences of capture on pregnant southern fiddler rays (Trygonorrhina dumerilii) collected from Swan Bay, Australia, in response to laboratory-simulated trawl capture (8 h) followed immediately by air exposure (30 min). Immediately prior to, and for up to 28 days post trawling, all females were measured for body mass (BM), sex steroid concentrations (17-β estradiol, progesterone, testosterone) and granulocyte to lymphocyte (G:L) ratio. At parturition, neonates were measured for total length (TL), BM and G:L ratio. Trawling reduced maternal BM and elevated the G:L ratio for up to 28 days. Trawling did not significantly affect any sex steroid concentrations relative to controls. Neonates from trawled mothers were significantly lower in BM and TL than control animals, and had an elevated G:L ratio. Our results show that capture of pregnant T. dumerilii can influence their reproductive potential and affect the fitness of neonates. We suggest other viviparous species are likely to be similarly affected. Sub-lethal effects of capture, particularly on reproduction, require further study to improve fisheries management and conservation of chondrichthyans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- L Guida
- School of Biological Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
| | - C Awruch
- CESIMAR (Centro Para el Estudio de Sistemas Marinos) - CENPAT- CONICET, Puerto Madryn, Chubut U9120ACD, Argentina.,School of Biological Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania 7001, Australia
| | - T I Walker
- School of Biological Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
| | - R D Reina
- School of Biological Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Waltrick DS, Simpfendorfer CA, Awruch CA. A review on the morphology of ovarian follicles in elasmobranchs: A case study inRhizoprionodon taylori. J Morphol 2017; 278:486-499. [DOI: 10.1002/jmor.20644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2016] [Revised: 11/30/2016] [Accepted: 12/06/2016] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Daniela S. Waltrick
- Department of Fisheries; Western Australian Fisheries and Marine Research Laboratories, Government of Western Australia; PO Box 20 North Beach Western Australia 6920 Australia
- Centre for Sustainable Tropical Fisheries and Aquaculture & College of Science and Engineering, James Cook University; Townsville QLD 4811 Australia
| | - Colin A. Simpfendorfer
- Centre for Sustainable Tropical Fisheries and Aquaculture & College of Science and Engineering, James Cook University; Townsville QLD 4811 Australia
| | - Cynthia A. Awruch
- Centre for Sustainable Tropical Fisheries and Aquaculture & College of Science and Engineering, James Cook University; Townsville QLD 4811 Australia
- School of Biological Sciences; University of Tasmania; Hobart TAS 1 Australia
- CESIMAR (Centro Para el Estudio de Sistemas Marinos) - CENPAT- CONICET; Bvd. Brown 2915, Puerto Madryn Chubut U9120ACD Argentina
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Yamaguchi Y, Takagi W, Kuraku S, Moriyama S, Bell JD, Seale AP, Lerner DT, Grau EG, Hyodo S. Discovery of conventional prolactin from the holocephalan elephant fish, Callorhinchus milii. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2015; 224:216-27. [PMID: 26320855 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2015.08.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2015] [Revised: 08/22/2015] [Accepted: 08/27/2015] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The conventional prolactin (PRL), also known as PRL1, is an adenohypophysial hormone that critically regulates various physiological events in reproduction, metabolism, growth, osmoregulation, among others. PRL1 shares its evolutionary origin with PRL2, growth hormone (GH), somatolactin and placental lactogen, which together form the GH/PRL hormone family. Previously, several bioassays implied the existence of PRL1 in elasmobranch pituitaries. However, to date, all attempts to isolate PRL1 from chondrichthyans have been unsuccessful. Here, we cloned PRL1 from the pituitary of the holocephalan elephant fish, Callorhinchus milii, as the first report of chondrichthyan PRL1. The putative mature protein of elephant fish PRL1 (cmPRL1) consists of 198 amino acids, containing two conserved disulfide bonds. The orthologous relationship of cmPRL1 to known vertebrate PRL1s was confirmed by the analyses of molecular phylogeny and gene synteny. The cmPRL1 gene was similar to teleost PRL1 genes in gene synteny, but was distinct from amniote PRL1 genes, which most likely arose in an early amphibian by duplication of the ancestral PRL1 gene. The mRNA of cmPRL1 was predominantly expressed in the pituitary, but was considerably less abundant than has been previously reported for bony fish and tetrapod PRL1s; the copy number of cmPRL1 mRNA in the pituitary was less than 1% and 0.1% of that of GH and pro-opiomelanocortin mRNAs, respectively. The cells expressing cmPRL1 mRNA were sparsely distributed in the rostral pars distalis. Our findings provide a new insight into the studies on molecular and functional evolution of PRL1 in vertebrates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yoko Yamaguchi
- Hawai'i Institute of Marine Biology, University of Hawai'i, Kaneohe, HI 96744, USA.
| | - Wataru Takagi
- Laboratory of Physiology, Atmosphere and Ocean Research Institute, University of Tokyo, Kashiwa, Chiba 277-8564, Japan.
| | - Shigehiro Kuraku
- Phyloinformatics Unit, RIKEN Center for Life Science Technologies, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0047, Japan.
| | - Shunsuke Moriyama
- School of Marine Biosciences, Kitasato University, Sagamihara, Kanagawa 252-0373, Japan.
| | - Justin D Bell
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, Taroona, TAS 7053, Australia.
| | - Andre P Seale
- Hawai'i Institute of Marine Biology, University of Hawai'i, Kaneohe, HI 96744, USA.
| | - Darren T Lerner
- Hawai'i Institute of Marine Biology, University of Hawai'i, Kaneohe, HI 96744, USA; Sea Grant College Program, University of Hawai'i at Mānoa, Honolulu, HI 96822, USA.
| | - E Gordon Grau
- Hawai'i Institute of Marine Biology, University of Hawai'i, Kaneohe, HI 96744, USA; Sea Grant College Program, University of Hawai'i at Mānoa, Honolulu, HI 96822, USA.
| | - Susumu Hyodo
- Laboratory of Physiology, Atmosphere and Ocean Research Institute, University of Tokyo, Kashiwa, Chiba 277-8564, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Rompay LV, Borghgraef C, Beets I, Caers J, Temmerman L. New genetic regulators question relevance of abundant yolk protein production in C. elegans. Sci Rep 2015; 5:16381. [PMID: 26553710 PMCID: PMC4639837 DOI: 10.1038/srep16381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2015] [Accepted: 09/24/2015] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Vitellogenesis or maternal yolk formation is considered critical to the reproduction of egg-laying animals. In invertebrates, however, most of its regulatory genes are still unknown. Via a combined mapping and whole-genome sequencing strategy, we performed a forward genetic screen to isolate novel regulators of yolk production in the nematode model system Caenorhabditis elegans. In addition to isolating new alleles of rab-35, rab-10 and M04F3.2, we identified five mutant alleles corresponding to three novel regulatory genes potently suppressing the expression of a GFP-based yolk reporter. We confirmed that mutations in vrp-1, ceh-60 and lrp-2 disrupt endogenous yolk protein synthesis at the transcriptional and translational level. In contrast to current beliefs, our discovered set of mutants with strongly reduced yolk proteins did not show serious reproduction defects. This raises questions as to whether yolk proteins per se are needed for ultimate reproductive success.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Liesbeth Van Rompay
- Functional Genomics and Proteomics, Department of Biology, KU Leuven, Naamsestraat 59 bus 2465, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Charline Borghgraef
- Functional Genomics and Proteomics, Department of Biology, KU Leuven, Naamsestraat 59 bus 2465, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Isabel Beets
- Functional Genomics and Proteomics, Department of Biology, KU Leuven, Naamsestraat 59 bus 2465, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Jelle Caers
- Functional Genomics and Proteomics, Department of Biology, KU Leuven, Naamsestraat 59 bus 2465, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Liesbet Temmerman
- Functional Genomics and Proteomics, Department of Biology, KU Leuven, Naamsestraat 59 bus 2465, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Nozu R, Murakumo K, Matsumoto R, Nakamura M, Ueda K, Sato K. Gonadal Morphology, Histology, and Endocrinological Characteristics of Immature Female Whale Sharks, Rhincodon typus. Zoolog Sci 2015; 32:455-8. [PMID: 26428723 DOI: 10.2108/zs150040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Captive breeding of whale sharks is one of the great challenges for aquariums. However, there is limited information available related to reproductive physiology due to the difficulty of sampling and long-term observation. In the present report, we provide information on the reproductive physiology of female whale sharks, which were incidentally captured as bycatch in a set-net off the coast of Okinawa, Japan. Total lengths of three captured female whale sharks were 403, 665, and 761 cm, respectively, at the time of their death. Collected paired ovaries differed in size between right and left. However, it seems not to determine which side of ovary becomes developed. Histological observations revealed that oocytes surrounded by follicle cell layers localized in the developed ovary, and most developed oocytes exhibited yolk vesicle stage. Additionally, in the largest specimen, there were low levels of three steroid hormones (Testosterone, Dihydrotestosterone, and Estradiol-17ß) that did not show seasonal variation. The present results indicate that even the whale shark over 7 m in TL are still histologically and endocrinologically immature. We expect that the present data will provide fundamental information related to reproductive physiology of female whale sharks, and will contribute to protection activities and increased success in captive breeding of whale sharks.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ryo Nozu
- 1 Research Center, Okinawa Churashima Foundation, 888 Ishikawa, Motobu, Okinawa 905-0206, Japan
| | - Kiyomi Murakumo
- 2 Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, 424 Ishikawa, Motobu, Okinawa 905-0206, Japan
| | - Rui Matsumoto
- 2 Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, 424 Ishikawa, Motobu, Okinawa 905-0206, Japan
| | - Masaru Nakamura
- 1 Research Center, Okinawa Churashima Foundation, 888 Ishikawa, Motobu, Okinawa 905-0206, Japan
| | - Keiichi Ueda
- 2 Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, 424 Ishikawa, Motobu, Okinawa 905-0206, Japan
| | - Keiichi Sato
- 1 Research Center, Okinawa Churashima Foundation, 888 Ishikawa, Motobu, Okinawa 905-0206, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Baker ME, Nelson DR, Studer RA. Origin of the response to adrenal and sex steroids: Roles of promiscuity and co-evolution of enzymes and steroid receptors. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2015; 151:12-24. [PMID: 25445914 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2014.10.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2014] [Revised: 10/13/2014] [Accepted: 10/26/2014] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Many responses to adrenal and sex steroids are mediated by receptors that belong to the nuclear receptor family of transcription factors. We investigated the co-evolution of these vertebrate steroid receptors and the enzymes that synthesize adrenal and sex steroids through data mining of genomes from cephalochordates [amphioxus], cyclostomes [lampreys, hagfish], chondrichthyes [sharks, rays, skates], actinopterygii [ray-finned fish], sarcopterygii [coelacanths, lungfishes and terrestrial vertebrates]. An ancestor of the estrogen receptor and 3-ketosteroid receptors evolved in amphioxus. A corticoid receptor and a progesterone receptor evolved in cyclostomes, and an androgen receptor evolved in gnathostomes. Amphioxus contains CYP11, CYP17, CYP19, 3β/Δ5-4-HSD and 17β-HSD14, which suffice for the synthesis of estradiol and Δ5-androstenediol. Amphioxus also contains CYP27, which catalyzes the synthesis of 27-hydroxy-cholesterol, another estrogen. Lamprey contains, in addition, CYP21, which catalyzes the synthesis of 11-deoxycortisol. Chondrichthyes contain, in addition, CYP11A, CYP11C, CYP17A1, CYP17A2. Coelacanth also contains CYP11C1, the current descendent from a common ancestor with modern land vertebrate CYP11B genes, which catalyze the synthesis of cortisol, corticosterone and aldosterone. Interestingly, CYP11B2, aldosterone synthase, evolved from separate gene duplications in at least old world monkeys and two suborders of rodents. Sciurognathi (including mice and rats) and Hystricomorpha (including guinea pigs). Thus, steroid receptors and steroidogenic enzymes co-evolved at key transitions in the evolution of vertebrates. Together, this suite of receptors and enzymes through their roles in transcriptional regulation of reproduction, development, homeostasis and the response to stress contributed to the evolutionary diversification of vertebrates. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled 'Steroid/Sterol signaling'.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael E Baker
- Department of Medicine, 0693, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA 92093-0693, United States.
| | - David R Nelson
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Biochemistry, 858 Madison Ave., Suite G01, University of Tennessee, Memphis, TN 38163, United States.
| | - Romain A Studer
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory, European Bioinformatics Institute (EMBL-EBI), Wellcome Trust Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridge CB10 1SD, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
|
36
|
Awruch CA, Jones SM, Asorey MG, Barnett A. Non-lethal assessment of the reproductive status of broadnose sevengill sharks (Notorynchus cepedianus) to determine the significance of habitat use in coastal areas. CONSERVATION PHYSIOLOGY 2014; 2:cou013. [PMID: 27293634 PMCID: PMC4806732 DOI: 10.1093/conphys/cou013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2013] [Revised: 03/20/2014] [Accepted: 03/27/2014] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Identification of the importance of habitats that are frequently used by any species is essential to a complete understanding of the species' biology and to incorporate their ecological role into conservation and management programmes. In this context, the present study investigated whether Tasmanian coastal waters have any reproductive relevance for the broadnose sevengill shark (Notorynchus cepedianus). Although this species is a large coast-associated apex predator in these areas, there is a complete gap in understanding the role that these coastal systems could play in its reproduction. Reproductive hormones were used as a non-lethal method to address the reproductive biology of this species. Females seemed to have at least a bi-annual reproductive cycle, being pregnant for ∼1 year and spending at least 1 year non-pregnant, with the ovulatory cycle separated from gestation. Mature females were found to be ovulating, in the initial stages of pregnancy, resting or starting a new vitellogenic cycle. Notorynchus cepedianus did not use these coastal habitats for mating or as a pupping ground. Although the mating season was distinguished between September to April, only 22% of males showed mating scars during the peak of the mating period and no near-term pregnant females were observed. Thus, despite these coastal waters being an important foraging ground for this species, these areas did not have any reproductive relevance. In consequence, future management and conservation planning programmes need to identify whether there are other areas in Tasmania that play a critical role for reproductive purposes in this species. Finally, although previous studies have linked reproductive hormones with external examination of the gonads to validate the use of steroids as a non-lethal tool to address reproduction, the present study used this methodology without killing any animals. This has important implications for conservation programmes of threatened and endangered species worldwide where the methodology cannot be validated.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cynthia A. Awruch
- School of Zoology, University of Tasmania, TAS 7001, Australia
- Centro Nacional Patagónico (CENPAT), Conicet, Puerto Madryn, Chubut 9120, Argentina
| | - Susan M. Jones
- School of Zoology, University of Tasmania, TAS 7001, Australia
| | - Martin García Asorey
- Centro Nacional Patagónico (CENPAT), Conicet, Puerto Madryn, Chubut 9120, Argentina
| | - Adam Barnett
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, VIC 3125, Australia
- Fisheries, Aquaculture and Coasts Centre, IMAS, University of Tasmania, TAS 7001, Australia
- Centre for Tropical Water & Aquatic Ecosystem Research (TropWATER), Estuary and Tidal Wetland Ecosystems Research Group, School of Marine and Tropical Biology, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD 4811, Australia
- Oceans IQ, PO Box 200, Clifton Beach, Cairns, QLD 4879, Australia
| |
Collapse
|