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Fulgione D, Maselli V, Rivieccio E, Aceto S, Salvemini M, Buglione M. Evolutionary Plasticity in Insular Lizard, Adapting over Reproduction, Metabolism, and Color Variation. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:1478. [PMID: 38132304 PMCID: PMC10740616 DOI: 10.3390/biology12121478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
The Italian wall lizard (Podarcis siculus) living on islets exhibits a melanic skin coloration and a suite of adaptive traits lacking in nearby mainland populations. On islets, the unpredictable environmental conditions and highly fluctuating population densities are believed to have produced reversed island syndrome (RIS). Several physiological, behavioral, and life-history changes based on the RIS could result from positive selection on increased activity of melanocortins. We hypothesize that phenotypes on islets are the product of a plastic variation depending on the regulation of specific genes. Focusing on control systems that determine the insular-adapted phenotype, we demonstrated that reproductive markers, involved in the hypothalamus-hypophysis-gonadal axis, and metabolism markers, flags for hypophysis-melanocortin receptors, are all up-regulated in island lizards under the RIS. This behavior, combined with the observed limited variation in the mitochondrial genome, agrees with the hypothesis that plasticity enables populations to persist in novel environmental conditions and that over time, natural selection will "fine-tune" the population to the environment by modifying the phenotype under selection. We believe that analysis of the transcriptome and the single gene expression, such that all the variations observed in the island populations, can be useful to shed light on evolutionary plasticity as a process affecting animals' populations in general.
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Affiliation(s)
- Domenico Fulgione
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy; (D.F.); (S.A.); (M.S.); (M.B.)
| | - Valeria Maselli
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy; (D.F.); (S.A.); (M.S.); (M.B.)
| | - Eleonora Rivieccio
- Department of Humanities Studies, University of Naples Federico II, 80138 Naples, Italy;
| | - Serena Aceto
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy; (D.F.); (S.A.); (M.S.); (M.B.)
| | - Marco Salvemini
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy; (D.F.); (S.A.); (M.S.); (M.B.)
| | - Maria Buglione
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy; (D.F.); (S.A.); (M.S.); (M.B.)
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Rosati L, Chianese T, Simoniello P, Motta CM, Scudiero R. The Italian Wall Lizard Podarcis siculus as a Biological Model for Research in Male Reproductive Toxicology. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232315220. [PMID: 36499547 PMCID: PMC9737876 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232315220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is a genetically driven differentiation process that occurs in the testis and leads to the formation of spermatozoa. This process is extensively studied in several experimental models, particularly in vertebrates that share the morphological structure and functionality of the mammalian testis. Although reptiles are not generally considered biological models, the lizard Podarcis siculus has represented a suitable organism for the study of spermatogenesis over the years. In this lizard, the process of spermatogenesis is regulated by the interaction between systemic factors such as gonadotropins and local factors, i.e., molecules produced by the somatic and germinal cells of the testis. Many exogenous substances are able to alter the production of these regulative factors, thus altering the course of spermatogenesis, and P. siculus has proven to be an excellent model for studying the effects of various endogenous or exogenous substances on mechanisms underlying spermatogenesis. This review summarizes the available data on the effects of different substances on the control of spermatogenesis, highlighting the induced morphological and molecular alterations. Overall, the data show that sex hormone levels as well as the final stages of spermatogenesis are most affected by an imbalance of endogenous compounds or contamination by environmental pollutants. This is helpful for the male individual, since the damage, not affecting the spermatogonial stem cells, can be considered transient and not irreversible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Rosati
- Department of Biology, University Federico II, Via Cintia 21, 80126 Napoli, Italy
| | - Teresa Chianese
- Department of Biology, University Federico II, Via Cintia 21, 80126 Napoli, Italy
| | - Palma Simoniello
- Department of Sciences and Technology, University Parthenope, Centro Direzionale, Isola C4, 80143 Napoli, Italy
| | - Chiara Maria Motta
- Department of Biology, University Federico II, Via Cintia 21, 80126 Napoli, Italy
| | - Rosaria Scudiero
- Department of Biology, University Federico II, Via Cintia 21, 80126 Napoli, Italy
- Correspondence:
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The Aromatase-Estrogen System in the Testes of Non-Mammalian Vertebrates. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11061763. [PMID: 34204693 PMCID: PMC8231642 DOI: 10.3390/ani11061763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Revised: 06/08/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Estrogens are important physiological regulators of testicular activity in vertebrates. Estrogen levels depend on the activity of P450 aromatase, the enzyme responsible for the irreversible conversion of testosterone into 17β-estradiol. Therefore, P450 aromatase is the key player in the aromatase-estrogen system. The present review offers a comparative overview of P450 aromatase activity in male gonads of amphibians, reptiles, and birds, with a particular emphasis on the functions of the aromatase-estrogen system in these organisms during their developmental and adult stages. The aromatase-estrogen system appears to be crucial for the sex differentiation of gonads in vertebrates. Administration of aromatase inhibitors prior to sexual differentiation of gonads results in the development of males rather than females. In adults, both aromatase and estrogen receptors are expressed in somatic cells, Leydig and Sertoli cells, as well as germ cells, with certain differences among different species. In seasonal breeding species, the aromatase-estrogen system serves as an "on/off" switch for spermatogenesis. In some amphibian and reptilian species, increased estrogen levels in post-reproductive testes are responsible for blocking spermatogenesis, whereas, in some species of birds, estrogens function synergistically with testosterone to promote spermatogenesis. Recent evidence indicates that the production of the aromatase enzyme in excessive amounts reduces the reproductive performance in avian species of commercial interest. The use of aromatase inhibitors to improve fertility has yielded suitable positive results. Therefore, it appears that the role of the aromatase-estrogen system in regulating the testicular activity differs not only among the different classes of vertebrates but also among different species within the same class.
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Di Lorenzo M, Mileo A, Laforgia V, De Falco M, Rosati L. Alkyphenol Exposure Alters Steroidogenesis in Male Lizard Podarcis siculus. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:1003. [PMID: 33918463 PMCID: PMC8065914 DOI: 10.3390/ani11041003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Revised: 03/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nonylphenol (NP) and Octylphenol (OP) are persistent and non-biodegradable environmental contaminants classified as endocrine disruptor chemicals (EDCs). These compounds are widely used in several industrial applications and present estrogen-like properties, which have extensively been studied in aquatic organisms. The present study aimed to verify the interference of these compounds alone, and in mixture, on the reproductive cycle of the male terrestrial vertebrate Podarcis siculus, focusing mainly on the steroidogenesis process. METHODS Male lizards have been treated with different injections of both NP and OP alone and in mixture, and evaluation has been carried out using a histological approach. RESULTS Results obtained showed that both substances are able to alter both testis histology and localization of key steroidogenic enzymes, such as 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3β-HSD), 17β- hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (17β-HSD) and P450 aromatase. Moreover, OP exerts a preponderant effect, and the P450 aromatase represents the major target of both chemicals. CONCLUSIONS In conclusion, NP and OP inhibit steroidogenesis, which in turn may reduce the reproductive capacity of the specimens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Di Lorenzo
- Department of Biology, University of Naples ‘‘Federico II’’, 80126 Naples, Italy; (M.D.L.); (A.M.); (V.L.); (L.R.)
| | - Aldo Mileo
- Department of Biology, University of Naples ‘‘Federico II’’, 80126 Naples, Italy; (M.D.L.); (A.M.); (V.L.); (L.R.)
| | - Vincenza Laforgia
- Department of Biology, University of Naples ‘‘Federico II’’, 80126 Naples, Italy; (M.D.L.); (A.M.); (V.L.); (L.R.)
- National Institute of Biostructures and Biosystems (INBB), 00136 Rome, Italy
| | - Maria De Falco
- Department of Biology, University of Naples ‘‘Federico II’’, 80126 Naples, Italy; (M.D.L.); (A.M.); (V.L.); (L.R.)
- National Institute of Biostructures and Biosystems (INBB), 00136 Rome, Italy
- Center for Studies on Bioinspired Agro-environmental Technology (BAT Center), 80055 Portici, Italy
| | - Luigi Rosati
- Department of Biology, University of Naples ‘‘Federico II’’, 80126 Naples, Italy; (M.D.L.); (A.M.); (V.L.); (L.R.)
- Center for Studies on Bioinspired Agro-environmental Technology (BAT Center), 80055 Portici, Italy
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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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Rosati L, Prisco M, Di Lorenzo M, De Falco M, Andreuccetti P. Immunolocalization of aromatase P450 in the epididymis of Podarcis sicula and Rattus rattus. Eur J Histochem 2020; 64:3080. [PMID: 31988532 PMCID: PMC7029622 DOI: 10.4081/ejh.2020.3080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2019] [Accepted: 01/08/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The goal of this study was to evaluate P450 aromatase localization in the epididymis of two different vertebrates: the lizard Podarcis sicula, a seasonal breeder, and Rattus rattus, a continuous breeder. P450 aromatase is a key enzyme involved in the local control of spermatogenesis and steroidogenesis and we proved for the first time that this enzyme is represented in the epididymis of both P. sicula and R. rattus. In details, P450 aromatase was well represented in epithelial and myoid cells and in the connective tissue of P. sicula epididymis during the reproductive period; instead, during autumnal resumption this enzyme was absent in the connective tissue. During the non-reproductive period, P450 aromatase was localized only in myoid cells of P. sicula epididymis, whereas in R. rattus it was localized both in myoid cells and connective tissue. Our findings, the first on the epididymis aromatase localization in the vertebrates, suggest a possible role of P450 aromatase in the control of male genital tract function, particularly in sperm maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Rosati
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II.
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Rosati L, Di Fiore MM, Prisco M, Di Giacomo Russo F, Venditti M, Andreuccetti P, Chieffi Baccari G, Santillo A. Seasonal expression and cellular distribution of star and steroidogenic enzymes in quail testis. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL ZOOLOGY PART B-MOLECULAR AND DEVELOPMENTAL EVOLUTION 2019; 332:198-209. [PMID: 31433565 DOI: 10.1002/jez.b.22896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2019] [Revised: 07/15/2019] [Accepted: 07/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The quail Coturnix coturnix is a seasonal breeder with a physiological switch on/off of gonadic activity. Photoperiod and temperature are the major environmental factors regulating the spermatogenesis. To more thoroughly comprehend the steroidogenic pathways that govern the seasonal reproductive cycle, we have investigated the localization of StAR protein and steroidogenic enzymes (3β-HSD, 17β-HSD, P450 aromatase, and 5α-Red) as well as androgen and estrogen levels, in the testis of reproductive and nonreproductive quails. We demonstrated that StAR, 3β-HSD, 17β-HSD, P450 aromatase, and 5α-Red were always present in the somatic (Leydig and Sertoli cells) and germ cells (spermatogonia, spermatocytes I and II, spermatids, and spermatozoa). In addition, by western blot analysis, we demonstrated that 17β-HSD, P450 aromatase, and 5α-Red showed the highest expression levels during the reproductive testis compared with nonreproductive one. Accordingly, we also found that during the reproductive phase the highest titres of testosterone, 17β-estradiol, and 5α-dihydrotestosterone are recorded. In conclusion, our findings demonstrated that in C. coturnix: (a) both somatic and germ cells are involved in the local synthesis of sex hormones; (b) 17β-HSD, P450 aromatase, and 5α-Red expressions, as well as testicular androgens and estrogens, increased in reproductive quail testis. This study strongly indicates that the steroidogenic process in quail testis exhibits seasonal changes with the promotion of both androgenic and estrogenic pathways in the reproductive period, suggesting their synergic mechanism in the spermatogenesis regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Rosati
- 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, Università degli studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
| | - Marina Prisco
- Dipartimento di Biologia, Università degli studi di Napoli Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Federica Di Giacomo Russo
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali, Biologiche e Farmaceutiche, Università degli studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
| | - Massimo Venditti
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Università degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Piero Andreuccetti
- Dipartimento di Biologia, Università degli studi di Napoli Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Gabriella Chieffi Baccari
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali, Biologiche e Farmaceutiche, Università degli studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
| | - Alessandra Santillo
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali, Biologiche e Farmaceutiche, Università degli studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
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Agnese M, Rosati L, Prisco M, Borzacchiello L, Abagnale L, Andreuccetti P. The expression of estrogen receptors during the Mytilus galloprovincialis ovarian cycle. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL ZOOLOGY PART 2019; 331:367-373. [PMID: 31145556 DOI: 10.1002/jez.2272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2019] [Revised: 05/03/2019] [Accepted: 05/06/2019] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this paper is to assess, by real-time polymerase chain reaction and in situ hybridization, the expression of estrogen receptors ER1 and ER2 during the ovarian cycle of Mytilus galloprovincialis. By considering four phases of the reproductive cycle, that is stasis and previtellogenic stage (Stage 0), early vitellogenesis (Stage I), vitellogenesis (Stage II), full-grown oocyte (Stage III), our investigation demonstrates that the two receptors are differently expressed during the phases investigated of the ovarian cycle: ER1 reaches the highest level at Stage III, whereas ER2 reaches the highest level at Stage II, with ER2 always present at higher levels than ER1. The stage-dependent receptor expression was recorded within oocytes, follicle cells, and adipogranular cells. No ER1 and ER2 messenger RNAs (mRNAs) were found within vesicular cells. It is to be noted that the ER1 and ER2 expression within the growing oocytes, the follicular, and adipogranular cells overlaps with that of the mRNA for vitellogenin in the same cells, strongly suggesting that in Mytilus, as in vertebrates studied so far, the vitellogenin expression is under the control of estrogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marisa Agnese
- Department of Biology, Federico II Naples University, Naples, Italy
| | - Luigi Rosati
- Department of Biology, Federico II Naples University, Naples, Italy.,Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie, Università degli Studi di Napoli "Parthenope", Naples, Italy
| | - Marina Prisco
- Department of Biology, Federico II Naples University, Naples, Italy
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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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10
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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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11
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Santillo A, Rosati L, Prisco M, Chieffi Baccari G, Andreuccetti P, Falvo S, Di Fiore MM. Aromatase immunolocalization and activity in the lizard's brain: Dynamic changes during the reproductive cycle. C R Biol 2019; 342:18-26. [PMID: 30709696 DOI: 10.1016/j.crvi.2019.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2018] [Revised: 01/09/2019] [Accepted: 01/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of the present study is to highlight the role of aromatase in the neuroendocrine control of the reproductive cycle of the male lizard Podarcis sicula during the three significant phases, i.e. the pre-reproductive, reproductive, and post-reproductive stages. Using immunohistochemical, biochemical, and hormonal tools, we have determined the localization and the activity of P450 aromatase (P450 aro) in the lizard's brain together with the determination of hormonal profile of sex steroids, i.e. testosterone and 17β-estradiol. The present data demonstrated that the localization of P450 is shown in brain regions involved in the regulation of the reproductive behavior (medial septum, preoptic area, and hypothalamus). Its activity, as well as the intensity of the signal, is modified according to the period of reproduction, resulting in functional dynamic changes. P450 aro activity and signal intensity decrease in the pre-reproductive period and progressively increase during the reproductive stage until it reaches the maximum peak level at the post-reproductive phase. P450 aro determines a local estrogen synthesis, balancing the testosterone and estradiol levels, and therefore its role is crucial, since it plays an important role in the neuroendocrine/behavioral regulation of the reproductive processes in the male lizard P. sicula.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Santillo
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali, Biologiche e Farmaceutiche, Università degli Studi della Campania "L. Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
| | - Luigi Rosati
- Dipartimento di Biologia, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, via Mezzocannone 8, 80134 Napoli, Italy
| | - Marina Prisco
- Dipartimento di Biologia, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, via Mezzocannone 8, 80134 Napoli, Italy
| | - Gabriella Chieffi Baccari
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali, Biologiche e Farmaceutiche, Università degli Studi della Campania "L. Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
| | - Piero Andreuccetti
- Dipartimento di Biologia, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, via Mezzocannone 8, 80134 Napoli, Italy.
| | - Sara Falvo
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali, Biologiche e Farmaceutiche, Università degli Studi della Campania "L. Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
| | - Maria Maddalena Di Fiore
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali, Biologiche e Farmaceutiche, Università degli Studi della Campania "L. Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
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12
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Rosati L, Agnese M, Verderame M, Aniello F, Venditti M, Mita DG, Andreuccetti P, Prisco M. Morphological and molecular responses in ovaries of Mytilus galloprovincialis
collected in two different sites of the Naples Bay. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL ZOOLOGY PART 2018; 331:52-60. [DOI: 10.1002/jez.2231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2018] [Revised: 08/20/2018] [Accepted: 08/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- L. Rosati
- Department of Biology; University of Naples Federico II; Naples Italy
| | - M. Agnese
- Department of Biology; University of Naples Federico II; Naples Italy
| | - M. Verderame
- Department of Biology; University of Naples Federico II; Naples Italy
| | - F. Aniello
- Department of Biology; University of Naples Federico II; Naples Italy
| | - M. Venditti
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Sez, Fisiologia Umana e Funzioni Biologiche Integrate; Università degli studi della Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”; Napoli Italy
| | - D. G. Mita
- Section of Molecular Oncology, Institute of Genetics and Biophysics of CNR; Naples Italy
- Section of Molecular Oncology, National Laboratory on Endocrine Disruptors - Interuniversity Consortium INBB; Naples Italy
| | - P. Andreuccetti
- Department of Biology; University of Naples Federico II; Naples Italy
| | - M. Prisco
- Department of Biology; University of Naples Federico II; Naples Italy
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13
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Testicular steroidogenic enzymes in the lizard Podarcis sicula during the spermatogenic cycle. C R Biol 2017; 340:492-498. [PMID: 29126714 DOI: 10.1016/j.crvi.2017.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2017] [Revised: 10/09/2017] [Accepted: 10/10/2017] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Steroidogenic Acute Regulatory protein (StAR), 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3β-HSD), 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (17β-HSD), 5α-Reductase (5α-Red), P450 aromatase are key enzymes involved in steroidogenesis. Recently, we showed the expression and the localization of P450 aromatase in Podarcis sicula testis during the different phases of the reproductive cycle, showing its involvement in the control of steroidogenesis, particularly in 17β-estradiol synthesis. Now, we have investigated the presence and distribution of the other enzymes involved in steroidogenesis, i.e. StAR, 3β-HSD, 17β-HSD and 5α-Red, during three significant periods of the reproductive cycle: summer stasis (July-August), autumnal resumption (November) and reproductive period (May-June). We demonstrated for the first time that all these enzymes are always present in somatic cells (Leydig and Sertoli) and germ cells (spermatogonia, spermatocytes I and II, spermatids and spermatozoa) of Podarcis testis, mainly in spermatids and spermatozoa. The present results strongly suggest that in Podarcis testis both somatic and germ cells could be involved in local sex hormone synthesis and that 5α-Red and P450 could carry out a pivot role.
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Rosati L, Andreuccetti P, Prisco M. Vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) localization in the epididymis of two vertebrate species. C R Biol 2017; 340:379-385. [DOI: 10.1016/j.crvi.2017.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2017] [Revised: 07/09/2017] [Accepted: 07/10/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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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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Catestatin and GABA(A)R related feeding habits rely on dopamine, ghrelin plus leptin neuroreceptor expression variations. Physiol Behav 2016; 157:225-30. [PMID: 26875516 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2016.02.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2015] [Revised: 01/20/2016] [Accepted: 02/09/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Catestatin (CST), an endogenously small sympathoinhibitory peptide is capable of interfering with the major cerebral neuroreceptor-blocking site, i.e. γ-aminobutyric acidA receptor (GABAAR) system especially in limbic brain areas that are involved with feeding behaviors. The GABAARergic-related effects seem to derive from its interaction with other molecular neuroreceptors such as dopaminergic, ghrelin and leptinergic. In this context, the present study aimed to investigate probable feeding responses (eating and drinking) induced by treatment with CST and the GABAAR antagonist bicucullin (BIC) alone or simultaneously (CST+BIC) in the Syrian hibernating hamster (Mesocricetus auratus) model. Hamsters that received these compounds via intracerebroventricular infusions displayed notable variations of feeding and drinking bouts. In particular, an anorexigenic response was evident following treatment with CST while BIC evoked a significant increase of eating and drinking behaviors. Surprisingly when both agents were given simultaneously, a predominating anorexigenic response was detected as shown by evident CST-dependent reduction of feeding bouts. Contextually such behaviors, especially those following the combined treatment were tightly correlated with the significantly increased cerebral dopamine receptor 1 (D1) plus reduced ghrelin receptor (GhsR) and leptin receptor (LepR) transcript levels. Overall, the anorexigenic effect of CST deriving from its tight interaction with GABAARs activity plus D1 and GhsR transcripts tends to propose these neuronal elements as pivotal factors responsible for feeding disorders.
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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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18
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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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Rosati L, Prisco M, Di Fiore MM, Santillo A, Sciarrillo R, Valiante S, Laforgia V, Coraggio F, Andreuccetti P, Agnese M. Sex steroid hormone secretion in the wall lizardPodarcis siculatestis: The involvement of VIP. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2015; 323:714-721. [DOI: 10.1002/jez.1964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2015] [Revised: 07/10/2015] [Accepted: 08/04/2015] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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
| | - Rosaria Sciarrillo
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie; Università degli Studi del Sannio; Benevento Italy
| | - Salvatore Valiante
- Dipartimento di Biologia; Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II; Naples Italy
| | - Vincenza Laforgia
- Dipartimento di Biologia; Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II; Naples Italy
| | - Francesca Coraggio
- 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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