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Molcho J, Albagly D, Levy T, Manor R, Aflalo ED, Alfaro-Montoya J, Sagi A. Regulation of early spermatogenesis in the giant prawn Macrobrachium rosenbergii by a GCL homolog†. Biol Reprod 2024; 110:1000-1011. [PMID: 38408206 PMCID: PMC11094379 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioae028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Revised: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The germ cell-less gene is crucial for gonad development in various organisms. Early interventions in its expression suggested a regulatory role at the mitotic stages of spermatogenesis, and its early knockout resulted in complete sterility in Drosophila. Genomic and transcriptomic data available for the catadromous giant prawn Macrobrachium rosenbergii enabled the identification of a germ cell-less homolog for this species, which we termed MroGCL (mRNA accession number OQ533056). An open reading frame containing 494 amino acids and a typical evolutionarily conserved BTB/POZ domain suggests possible protein-protein interaction functions in keeping with the Drosophila germ cell-less protein. Genomic mapping of MroGCL showed a full length of 120 896 bases. Analysis of the temporal expression of MroGCL showed constant expression in early prawn embryonic and larval stages, but a significant increase 10 days after metamorphosis when crucial sexual differentiation processes occur in prawns. In adult animals, high expression was detected in the gonads compared to the somatic tissues. RNAi-based knock-down experiments showed that both the silenced and control groups reached advanced spermatogenic stages, but that there was a significant decrease in the yield of spermatozoa in about half of the silenced animals. This finding supports our hypothesis that MroGCL is crucial for mitosis during early stage spermatogenesis. In conclusion, this study contributes to the understanding of crustacean gonad development and provides a stepping stone in the development of environmentally valuable sterile crustacean populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Molcho
- Department of Life Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel
| | - Dana Albagly
- Department of Life Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel
| | - Tom Levy
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Hopkins Marine Station, Stanford University, Pacific Grove, CA, USA
| | - Rivka Manor
- Department of Life Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel
| | - Eliahu D Aflalo
- Department of Life Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel
- Department of Life Sciences, Achva Academic College, Arugot, Israel
| | | | - Amir Sagi
- Department of Life Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel
- The National Institute for Biotechnology in the Negev, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel
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2
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Gao J, Qin Y, Schimenti JC. Gene regulation during meiosis. Trends Genet 2024; 40:326-336. [PMID: 38177041 PMCID: PMC11003842 DOI: 10.1016/j.tig.2023.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
Meiosis is essential for gamete production in all sexually reproducing organisms. It entails two successive cell divisions without DNA replication, producing haploid cells from diploid ones. This process involves complex morphological and molecular differentiation that varies across species and between sexes. Specialized genomic events like meiotic recombination and chromosome segregation are tightly regulated, including preparation for post-meiotic development. Research in model organisms, notably yeast, has shed light on the genetic and molecular aspects of meiosis and its regulation. Although mammalian meiosis research faces challenges, particularly in replicating gametogenesis in vitro, advances in genetic and genomic technologies are providing mechanistic insights. Here we review the genetics and molecular biology of meiotic gene expression control, focusing on mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingyi Gao
- Cornell University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Yiwen Qin
- Cornell University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - John C Schimenti
- Cornell University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA.
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3
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Deng X, Liang S, Tang Y, Li Y, Xu R, Luo L, Wang Q, Zhang X, Liu Y. Adverse effects of bisphenol A and its analogues on male fertility: An epigenetic perspective. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 345:123393. [PMID: 38266695 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.123393] [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: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 11/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
In recent years, there has been growing concern about the adverse effects of endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) on male fertility. Epigenetic modification is critical for male germline development, and has been suggested as a potential mechanism for impaired fertility induced by EDCs. Bisphenol A (BPA) has been recognized as a typical EDC. BPA and its analogues, which are still widely used in various consumer products, have garnered increasing attention due to their reproductive toxicity and the potential to induce epigenetic alteration. This literature review provides an overview of studies investigating the adverse effects of bisphenol exposures on epigenetic modifications and male fertility. Existing studies provide evidence that exposure to bisphenols can lead to adverse effects on male fertility, including declined semen quality, altered reproductive hormone levels, and adverse reproductive outcomes. Epigenetic patterns, including DNA methylation, histone modification, and non-coding RNA expression, can be altered by bisphenol exposures. Transgenerational effects, which influence the fertility and epigenetic patterns of unexposed generations, have also been identified. However, the magnitude and direction of certain outcomes varied across different studies. Investigations into the dynamics of histopathological and epigenetic alterations associated with bisphenol exposures during developmental stages can enhance the understanding of the epigenetic effects of bisphenols, the implication of epigenetic alteration on male fertility, and the health of successive generation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyi Deng
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Sihan Liang
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuqian Tang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Male Reproduction and Genetics, Guangdong Provincial Reproductive Science Institute, Guangdong Provincial Fertility Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yingxin Li
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ruijun Xu
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lu Luo
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qiling Wang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Male Reproduction and Genetics, Guangdong Provincial Reproductive Science Institute, Guangdong Provincial Fertility Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xinzong Zhang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Male Reproduction and Genetics, Guangdong Provincial Reproductive Science Institute, Guangdong Provincial Fertility Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuewei Liu
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.
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4
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Rodriguez-Polo I, Moris N. Using embryo models to understand the development and progression of embryonic lineages: a focus on primordial germ cell development. Cells Tissues Organs 2024:000538275. [PMID: 38479364 DOI: 10.1159/000538275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recapitulating mammalian cell type differentiation in vitro promises to improve our understanding of how these processes happen in vivo, while bringing additional prospects for biomedical applications. The establishment of stem cell-derived embryo models and embryonic organoids, which have experienced explosive growth over the last few years, open new avenues for research due to their scale, reproducibility, and accessibility. Embryo models mimic various developmental stages, exhibit different degrees of complexity, and can be established across species. Since embryo models exhibit multiple lineages organised spatially and temporally, they are likely to provide cellular niches that, to some degree, recapitulate the embryonic setting and enable "co-development" between cell types and neighbouring populations. One example where this is already apparent is in the case of primordial germ cell-like cells (PGCLCs). SUMMARY While directed differentiation protocols enable the efficient generation of high PGCLC numbers, embryo models provide an attractive alternative as they enable the study of interactions of PGCLCs with neighbouring cells, alongside the regulatory molecular and biophysical mechanisms of PGC competency. Additionally, some embryo models can recapitulate post-specification stages of PGC development (including migration or gametogenesis), mimicking the inductive signals pushing PGCLCs to mature and differentiate, and enabling the study of PGCLC development across stages. Therefore, in vitro models may allow us to address questions of cell type differentiation, and PGC development specifically, that have hitherto been out of reach with existing systems. KEY MESSAGE This review evaluates the current advances in stem cell-based embryo models, with a focus on their potential to model cell type-specific differentiation in general, and in particular to address open questions in PGC development and gametogenesis.
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He J, Yan A, Chen B, Huang J, Kee K. 3D genome remodeling and homologous pairing during meiotic prophase of mouse oogenesis and spermatogenesis. Dev Cell 2023; 58:3009-3027.e6. [PMID: 37963468 DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel.2023.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023]
Abstract
During meiosis, the chromatin and transcriptome undergo prominent switches. Although recent studies have explored the genome reorganization during spermatogenesis, the chromatin remodeling in oogenesis and characteristics of homologous pairing remain largely elusive. We comprehensively compared chromatin structures and transcriptomes at successive substages of meiotic prophase in both female and male mice using low-input high-through chromosome conformation capture (Hi-C) and RNA sequencing (RNA-seq). Compartments and topologically associating domains (TADs) gradually disappeared and slowly recovered in both sexes. We found that homologs adopted different sex-conserved pairing strategies prior to and after the leptotene-to-zygotene transition, changing from long interspersed nuclear element (LINE)-enriched compartments B to short interspersed nuclear element (SINE)-enriched compartments A. We complemented marker genes and predicted the sex-specific meiotic sterile genes for each substage. This study provides valuable insights into the similarities and distinctions between sexes in chromosome architecture, homologous pairing, and transcriptome during meiotic prophase of both oogenesis and spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing He
- The State Key Laboratory for Complex, Severe, and Rare Diseases, Center for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China; SXMU-Tsinghua Collaborative Innovation Center for Frontier Medicine, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - An Yan
- The State Key Laboratory for Complex, Severe, and Rare Diseases, Center for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China; SXMU-Tsinghua Collaborative Innovation Center for Frontier Medicine, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Bo Chen
- The State Key Laboratory for Complex, Severe, and Rare Diseases, Center for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China; SXMU-Tsinghua Collaborative Innovation Center for Frontier Medicine, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Jiahui Huang
- The State Key Laboratory for Complex, Severe, and Rare Diseases, Center for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China; SXMU-Tsinghua Collaborative Innovation Center for Frontier Medicine, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Kehkooi Kee
- The State Key Laboratory for Complex, Severe, and Rare Diseases, Center for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China; SXMU-Tsinghua Collaborative Innovation Center for Frontier Medicine, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China.
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6
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Irie N, Lee SM, Lorenzi V, Xu H, Chen J, Inoue M, Kobayashi T, Sancho-Serra C, Drousioti E, Dietmann S, Vento-Tormo R, Song CX, Surani MA. DMRT1 regulates human germline commitment. Nat Cell Biol 2023; 25:1439-1452. [PMID: 37709822 PMCID: PMC10567552 DOI: 10.1038/s41556-023-01224-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023]
Abstract
Germline commitment following primordial germ cell (PGC) specification during early human development establishes an epigenetic programme and competence for gametogenesis. Here we follow the progression of nascent PGC-like cells derived from human embryonic stem cells in vitro. We show that switching from BMP signalling for PGC specification to Activin A and retinoic acid resulted in DMRT1 and CDH5 expression, the indicators of migratory PGCs in vivo. Moreover, the induction of DMRT1 and SOX17 in PGC-like cells promoted epigenetic resetting with striking global enrichment of 5-hydroxymethylcytosine and locus-specific loss of 5-methylcytosine at DMRT1 binding sites and the expression of DAZL representing DNA methylation-sensitive genes, a hallmark of the germline commitment programme. We provide insight into the unique role of DMRT1 in germline development for advances in human germ cell biology and in vitro gametogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naoko Irie
- Wellcome Trust/Cancer Research UK Gurdon Institute, Henry Wellcome Building of Cancer and Developmental Biology, Cambridge, UK.
- Metabolic Systems Laboratory, Live Imaging Center, Central Institute for Experimental Animals, Kanagawa, Japan.
| | - Sun-Min Lee
- Wellcome Trust/Cancer Research UK Gurdon Institute, Henry Wellcome Building of Cancer and Developmental Biology, Cambridge, UK
- Department of Physics, Konkuk University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Valentina Lorenzi
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Cambridge, UK
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory, European Bioinformatics Institute, Cambridge, UK
| | - Haiqi Xu
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research and Target Discovery Institute, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Jinfeng Chen
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research and Target Discovery Institute, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Masato Inoue
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research and Target Discovery Institute, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Toshihiro Kobayashi
- Division of Mammalian Embryology, Center for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
- Center for Genetic Analysis of Behavior, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, Aichi, Japan
| | | | - Elena Drousioti
- Wellcome Trust/Cancer Research UK Gurdon Institute, Henry Wellcome Building of Cancer and Developmental Biology, Cambridge, UK
| | - Sabine Dietmann
- Department of Developmental Biology and Institute for Informatics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | | | - Chun-Xiao Song
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research and Target Discovery Institute, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - M Azim Surani
- Wellcome Trust/Cancer Research UK Gurdon Institute, Henry Wellcome Building of Cancer and Developmental Biology, Cambridge, UK.
- Physiology, Development and Neuroscience Department, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
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7
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Schindler M, Osterwalder M, Harabula I, Wittler L, Tzika AC, Dechmann DKN, Vingron M, Visel A, Haas SA, Real FM. Induction of kidney-related gene programs through co-option of SALL1 in mole ovotestes. Development 2023; 150:dev201562. [PMID: 37519269 PMCID: PMC10499028 DOI: 10.1242/dev.201562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023]
Abstract
Changes in gene expression represent an important source of phenotypic innovation. Yet how such changes emerge and impact the evolution of traits remains elusive. Here, we explore the molecular mechanisms associated with the development of masculinizing ovotestes in female moles. By performing integrative analyses of epigenetic and transcriptional data in mole and mouse, we identified the co-option of SALL1 expression in mole ovotestes formation. Chromosome conformation capture analyses highlight a striking conservation of the 3D organization at the SALL1 locus, but an evolutionary divergence of enhancer activity. Interspecies reporter assays support the capability of mole-specific enhancers to activate transcription in urogenital tissues. Through overexpression experiments in transgenic mice, we further demonstrate the capability of SALL1 to induce kidney-related gene programs, which are a signature of mole ovotestes. Our results highlight the co-option of gene expression, through changes in enhancer activity, as a plausible mechanism for the evolution of traits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Schindler
- Gene Regulation & Evolution, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, Berlin 14195, Germany
- Institute for Medical and Human Genetics, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin 13353, Germany
| | - Marco Osterwalder
- Department for BioMedical Research (DBMR), University of Bern, Bern 3008, Switzerland
- Department of Cardiology, Bern University Hospital, Bern 3010, Switzerland
- Environmental Genomics and Systems Biology Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA
| | - Izabela Harabula
- Epigenetic Regulation and Chromatin Architecture, Max-Delbrück-Centrum für Molekulare Medizin (MDC), Berlin 10115, Germany
| | - Lars Wittler
- Department of Developmental Genetics, Transgenic Unit, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, Berlin 14195, Germany
| | - Athanasia C. Tzika
- Department of Genetics & Evolution, University of Geneva, Geneva 1205, Switzerland
| | - Dina K. N. Dechmann
- Department of Migration, Max Planck Institute for Animal Behavior, Radolfzell 78315, Germany
- Department of Biology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz 78457, Germany
| | - Martin Vingron
- Department of Computational Molecular Biology, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, Berlin 14195, Germany
| | - Axel Visel
- Environmental Genomics and Systems Biology Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA
- Department of Energy Joint Genome Institute, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA
- School of Natural Sciences, University of California, Merced, CA 95343, USA
| | - Stefan A. Haas
- Department of Computational Molecular Biology, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, Berlin 14195, Germany
| | - Francisca M. Real
- Gene Regulation & Evolution, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, Berlin 14195, Germany
- Institute for Medical and Human Genetics, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin 13353, Germany
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8
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Huang L, Li W, Dai X, Zhao S, Xu B, Wang F, Jin RT, Luo L, Wu L, Jiang X, Cheng Y, Zou J, Xu C, Tong X, Fan HY, Zhao H, Bao J. Biallelic variants in MAD2L1BP ( p31comet) cause female infertility characterized by oocyte maturation arrest. eLife 2023; 12:e85649. [PMID: 37334967 PMCID: PMC10319434 DOI: 10.7554/elife.85649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Human oocyte maturation arrest represents one of the severe conditions for female patients with primary infertility. However, the genetic factors underlying this human disease remain largely unknown. The spindle assembly checkpoint (SAC) is an intricate surveillance mechanism that ensures accurate segregation of chromosomes throughout cell cycles. Once the kinetochores of chromosomes are correctly attached to bipolar spindles and the SAC is satisfied, the MAD2L1BP, best known as p31comet, binds mitosis arrest deficient 2 (MAD2) and recruits the AAA+-ATPase TRIP13 to disassemble the mitotic checkpoint complex (MCC), leading to the cell-cycle progression. In this study, by whole-exome sequencing (WES), we identified homozygous and compound heterozygous MAD2L1BP variants in three families with female patients diagnosed with primary infertility owing to oocyte metaphase I (MI) arrest. Functional studies revealed that the protein variants resulting from the C-terminal truncation of MAD2L1BP lost their binding ability to MAD2. cRNA microinjection of full-length or truncated MAD2L1BP uncovered their discordant roles in driving the extrusion of polar body 1 (PB1) in mouse oocytes. Furthermore, the patient's oocytes carrying the mutated MAD2L1BP resumed polar body extrusion (PBE) when rescued by microinjection of full-length MAD2L1BP cRNAs. Together, our studies identified and characterized novel biallelic variants in MAD2L1BP responsible for human oocyte maturation arrest at MI, and thus prompted new therapeutic avenues for curing female primary infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingli Huang
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of ChinaHefeiChina
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Anhui Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Anhui Medical UniversityHefeiChina
| | - Wenqing Li
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of ChinaHefeiChina
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, University of Science and Technology of China (USTC)HefeiChina
| | - Xingxing Dai
- Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
- International Institutes of Medicine, the Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of MedicineYiwuChina
| | - Shuai Zhao
- Hospital for Reproductive Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Shandong UniversityJinanChina
| | - Bo Xu
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of ChinaHefeiChina
| | - Fengsong Wang
- School of Life Science, Anhui Medical UniversityHefeiChina
| | - Ren-Tao Jin
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of ChinaHefeiChina
| | - Lihua Luo
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of ChinaHefeiChina
| | - Limin Wu
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of ChinaHefeiChina
| | - Xue Jiang
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of ChinaHefeiChina
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, University of Science and Technology of China (USTC)HefeiChina
| | - Yu Cheng
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of ChinaHefeiChina
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, University of Science and Technology of China (USTC)HefeiChina
| | - Jiaqi Zou
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of ChinaHefeiChina
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, University of Science and Technology of China (USTC)HefeiChina
| | - Caoling Xu
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of ChinaHefeiChina
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, University of Science and Technology of China (USTC)HefeiChina
| | - Xianhong Tong
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of ChinaHefeiChina
| | - Heng-Yu Fan
- Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Han Zhao
- Hospital for Reproductive Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Shandong UniversityJinanChina
| | - Jianqiang Bao
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of ChinaHefeiChina
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, University of Science and Technology of China (USTC)HefeiChina
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9
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Ikami K, Shoffner-Beck S, Tyczynska Weh M, Schnell S, Yoshida S, Diaz Miranda EA, Ko S, Lei L. Branched germline cysts and female-specific cyst fragmentation facilitate oocyte determination in mice. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2219683120. [PMID: 37155904 PMCID: PMC10194012 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2219683120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023] Open
Abstract
During mouse gametogenesis, germ cells derived from the same progenitor are connected via intercellular bridges forming germline cysts, within which asymmetrical or symmetrical cell fate occurs in female and male germ cells, respectively. Here, we have identified branched cyst structures in mice, and investigated their formation and function in oocyte determination. In fetal female cysts, 16.8% of the germ cells are connected by three or four bridges, namely branching germ cells. These germ cells are preferentially protected from cell death and cyst fragmentation and accumulate cytoplasm and organelles from sister germ cells to become primary oocytes. Changes in cyst structure and differential cell volumes among cyst germ cells suggest that cytoplasmic transport in germline cysts is conducted in a directional manner, in which cellular content is first transported locally between peripheral germ cells and further enriched in branching germ cells, a process causing selective germ cell loss in cysts. Cyst fragmentation occurs extensively in female cysts, but not in male cysts. Male cysts in fetal and adult testes have branched cyst structures, without differential cell fates between germ cells. During fetal cyst formation, E-cadherin (E-cad) junctions between germ cells position intercellular bridges to form branched cysts. Disrupted junction formation in E-cad-depleted cysts led to an altered ratio in branched cysts. Germ cell-specific E-cad knockout resulted in reductions in primary oocyte number and oocyte size. These findings shed light on how oocyte fate is determined within mouse germline cysts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kanako Ikami
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI48109
- Buck Institute for Research on Aging, Novato, CA94945
| | - Suzanne Shoffner-Beck
- Department of Molecular & Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI48109
| | - Malgorzata Tyczynska Weh
- Department of Molecular & Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI48109
| | - Santiago Schnell
- Department of Molecular & Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI48109
| | - Shosei Yoshida
- Division of Germ Cell Biology, National Institute for Basic Biology, Okazaki, Aichi444-8585, Japan
- Graduate Institute for Advanced Studies, Sokendai, Okazaki, Aichi444-8585, Japan
| | - Edgar Andres Diaz Miranda
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women’s Health, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, MO65211
| | - Sooah Ko
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women’s Health, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, MO65211
| | - Lei Lei
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women’s Health, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, MO65211
- Division of Biological Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO65211
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10
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Dupont C, Schäffers OJ, Tan BF, Merzouk S, Bindels EM, Zwijsen A, Huylebroeck D, Gribnau J. Efficient generation of ETX embryoids that recapitulate the entire window of murine egg cylinder development. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2023; 9:eadd2913. [PMID: 36652512 PMCID: PMC9848479 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.add2913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The murine embryonic-trophoblast-extra-embryonic endoderm (ETX) model is an integrated stem cell-based model to study early postimplantation development. It is based on the self-assembly potential of embryonic, trophoblast, and hypoblast/primitive/visceral endoderm-type stem cell lines (ESC, TSC, and XEN, respectively) to arrange into postimplantation egg cylinder-like embryoids. Here, we provide an optimized method for reliable and efficient generation of ETX embryoids that develop into late gastrulation in static culture conditions. It is based on transgenic Gata6-overproducing ESCs and modified assembly and culture conditions. Using this method, up to 43% of assembled ETX embryoids exhibited a correct spatial distribution of the three stem cell derivatives at day 4 of culture. Of those, 40% progressed into ETX embryoids that both transcriptionally and morphologically faithfully mimicked in vivo postimplantation mouse development between E5.5 and E7.5. The ETX model system offers the opportunity to study the murine postimplantation egg cylinder stages and could serve as a source of various cell lineage precursors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cathérine Dupont
- Department of Developmental Biology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Cell Biology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Olivier J. M. Schäffers
- Department of Developmental Biology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Beatrice F. Tan
- Department of Developmental Biology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Sarra Merzouk
- Department of Developmental Biology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Eric M. Bindels
- Department of Hematology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - An Zwijsen
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Danny Huylebroeck
- Department of Cell Biology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Joost Gribnau
- Department of Developmental Biology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
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11
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Ito T, Ohta M, Osada A, Nishiyama A, Ishiguro KI, Tamura T, Sekita Y, Kimura T. Switching defective/sucrose non-fermenting chromatin remodeling complex coordinates meiotic gene activation via promoter remodeling and Meiosin activation in female germline. Genes Cells 2023; 28:15-28. [PMID: 36371617 DOI: 10.1111/gtc.12990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Revised: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
In mammals, primordial germ cells (PGCs) enter meiosis and differentiate into primary oocytes in embryonic ovaries. Previously, we demonstrated that meiotic gene induction and meiotic initiation were impaired in female germline cells of conditional knockout (CKO) mice lacking the Smarcb1 (Snf5) gene, which encodes a core subunit of the switching defective/sucrose non-fermenting (SWI/SNF) complex. In this study, we classified meiotic genes expressed at lower levels in Snf5 CKO females into two groups based on promoter accessibility. The promoters of 74% of these genes showed lower accessibility in mutant mice, whereas those of the remaining genes were opened without the SWI/SNF complex. Notably, the former genes included Meiosin, which encodes a transcriptional regulator essential for meiotic gene activation. The promoters of the former and the latter genes were mainly modified with H3K27me3/bivalent and H3K4me3 histone marks, respectively. A subset of the former genes was precociously activated in female PGCs deficient in polycomb repressive complexes (PRCs). Our results point to a mechanism through which the SWI/SNF complex coordinates meiotic gene activation via the remodeling of PRC-repressed genes, including Meiosin, in female germline cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toshiaki Ito
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Biology, Department of Biosciences, Graduate School of Science, School of Science, Kitasato University, Sagamihara, Kanagawa, Japan
- Chitose Laboratory Corp., Biotechnology Research Center, Kawasaki, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Masami Ohta
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Biology, Department of Biosciences, Graduate School of Science, School of Science, Kitasato University, Sagamihara, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Atsuki Osada
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Biology, Department of Biosciences, Graduate School of Science, School of Science, Kitasato University, Sagamihara, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Akira Nishiyama
- Department of Immunology, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Kei-Ichiro Ishiguro
- Department of Chromosome Biology, Institute of Molecular Embryology and Genetics, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Tomohiko Tamura
- Department of Immunology, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan
- Advanced Medical Research Center, Yokohama City University, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Yoichi Sekita
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Biology, Department of Biosciences, Graduate School of Science, School of Science, Kitasato University, Sagamihara, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Tohru Kimura
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Biology, Department of Biosciences, Graduate School of Science, School of Science, Kitasato University, Sagamihara, Kanagawa, Japan
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12
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Hermann BP, Oatley JM. Introduction: The Why's and How's for Studying Spermatogenesis and Spermatogonial Stem Cells. Methods Mol Biol 2023; 2656:1-6. [PMID: 37249863 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3139-3_1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is maintained throughout adulthood by a pool of adult stem cells termed spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs). Research investigations into spermatogenesis can provide insight into the etiology of certain types of male infertility (e.g., Sertoli cell only syndrome), elucidate means of improving food animal production, reveal new therapeutic avenues to address naturally occurring defects in sperm production, mitigate iatrogenic male infertility (e.g., arising from cancer therapy), and potentially intervene for male contraception. This chapter will serve as a commentary about why studying spermatogenesis is important, including a high-level overview of spermatogonia and SSCs, and make the case for a critical need for use of stringent definitions for SSCs and experimental platforms that allow for clear distinction of the multiple types of spermatogonia that exist in testes of mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian P Hermann
- Department of Neuroscience, Developmental and Regenerative Biology, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA.
| | - Jon M Oatley
- School of Molecular Biosciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA.
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13
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Cheng H, Shang D, Zhou R. Germline stem cells in human. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2022; 7:345. [PMID: 36184610 PMCID: PMC9527259 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-022-01197-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Revised: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
The germline cells are essential for the propagation of human beings, thus essential for the survival of mankind. The germline stem cells, as a unique cell type, generate various states of germ stem cells and then differentiate into specialized cells, spermatozoa and ova, for producing offspring, while self-renew to generate more stem cells. Abnormal development of germline stem cells often causes severe diseases in humans, including infertility and cancer. Primordial germ cells (PGCs) first emerge during early embryonic development, migrate into the gentile ridge, and then join in the formation of gonads. In males, they differentiate into spermatogonial stem cells, which give rise to spermatozoa via meiosis from the onset of puberty, while in females, the female germline stem cells (FGSCs) retain stemness in the ovary and initiate meiosis to generate oocytes. Primordial germ cell-like cells (PGCLCs) can be induced in vitro from embryonic stem cells or induced pluripotent stem cells. In this review, we focus on current advances in these embryonic and adult germline stem cells, and the induced PGCLCs in humans, provide an overview of molecular mechanisms underlying the development and differentiation of the germline stem cells and outline their physiological functions, pathological implications, and clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanhua Cheng
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, 430072, Wuhan, China.
| | - Dantong Shang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, 430072, Wuhan, China
| | - Rongjia Zhou
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, 430072, Wuhan, China.
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14
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Sreenivasan R, Gonen N, Sinclair A. SOX Genes and Their Role in Disorders of Sex Development. Sex Dev 2022; 16:80-91. [PMID: 35760052 DOI: 10.1159/000524453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
SOX genesare master regulatory genes controlling development and are fundamental to the establishment of sex determination in a multitude of organisms. The discovery of the master sex-determining gene SRY in 1990 was pivotal for the understanding of how testis development is initiated in mammals. With this discovery, an entire family of SOX factors were uncovered that play crucial roles in cell fate decisions during development. The importance of SOX genes in human reproductive development is evident from the various disorders of sex development (DSD) upon loss or overexpression of SOX gene function. Here, we review the roles that SOX genes play in gonad development and their involvement in DSD. We start with an overview of sex determination and differentiation, DSDs, and the SOX gene family and function. We then provide detailed information and discussion on SOX genes that have been implicated in DSDs, both at the gene and regulatory level. These include SRY, SOX9, SOX3, SOX8, and SOX10. This review provides insights on the crucial balance of SOX gene expression levels needed for gonad development and maintenance and how changes in these levels can lead to DSDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajini Sreenivasan
- Reproductive Development, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Nitzan Gonen
- The Mina and Everard Goodman Faculty of Life Sciences, Institute of Nanotechnology and Advanced Materials, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Andrew Sinclair
- Reproductive Development, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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15
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Oct4 dependent chromatin activation is required for chicken primordial germ cell migration. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2022; 18:2535-2546. [PMID: 35397052 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-022-10371-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/18/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Primordial germ cells (PGCs) are the undifferentiated progenitors of the gametes. Unlike the poor maintenance of cultured mammalian PGCs, the avian PGCs can be expanded in vitro indefinitely while preserving pluripotency and germline competence. In mammals, the Oct4 is the master transcription factor that ensures the stemness of pluripotent cells such as PGCs, but the specific function of Oct4 in chicken PGCs remains unclear. As expected, the loss of Oct4 in chicken PGCs reduced the expression of key pluripotency factors and promoted the genes involved in endoderm and ectoderm differentiation. Furthermore, the global active chromatin was reduced as shown by the depletion of the H3K27ac upon Oct4 suppression. Interestingly, the de-activated chromatin caused the down-regulation of adjacent genes which are mostly known regulators of cell junction, chemotaxis and cell migration. Consequently, the Oct4-deficient PGCs show impaired cell migration and could not colonize the gonads when re-introduced into the bloodstream of the embryo. We propose that, in addition to maintaining pluripotency, the Oct4 mediated chromatin activation is dictating chicken PGC migration.
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16
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Kumar P, Rao S, Mundkur A, Adiga P, Ullagaddi RK, Poojari VG. Crossing the Hurdle of a Low Oocyte Yield in an in vitro Fertilization Cycle to Obtain Mature Oocytes. J Hum Reprod Sci 2022; 15:197-199. [PMID: 35928459 PMCID: PMC9345269 DOI: 10.4103/jhrs.jhrs_40_22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Revised: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The complex process of oocyte maturation involves a coordinated set of events to take place so that an adequate number of oocytes can be obtained during an oocyte pickup procedure following controlled ovarian stimulation. A weak link in any of the steps can yield a sparse number of oocytes which can be a setback in the process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pratap Kumar
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Surgery, Kasturba Medical College, MAHE University, Manipal, Karnataka, India
| | - Shubha Rao
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Surgery, Kasturba Medical College, MAHE University, Manipal, Karnataka, India
| | - Anjali Mundkur
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Surgery, Kasturba Medical College, MAHE University, Manipal, Karnataka, India
| | - Prashanth Adiga
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Surgery, Kasturba Medical College, MAHE University, Manipal, Karnataka, India
| | - Rashmi K Ullagaddi
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Surgery, Kasturba Medical College, MAHE University, Manipal, Karnataka, India
| | - Vidyashree G Poojari
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Surgery, Kasturba Medical College, MAHE University, Manipal, Karnataka, India
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17
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Artificial Oocyte: Development and Potential Application. Cells 2022; 11:cells11071135. [PMID: 35406698 PMCID: PMC8998074 DOI: 10.3390/cells11071135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Revised: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Millions of people around the world suffer from infertility, with the number of infertile couples and individuals increasing every year. Assisted reproductive technologies (ART) have been widely developed in recent years; however, some patients are unable to benefit from these technologies due to their lack of functional germ cells. Therefore, the development of alternative methods seems necessary. One of these methods is to create artificial oocytes. Oocytes can be generated in vitro from the ovary, fetal gonad, germline stem cells (GSCs), ovarian stem cells, or pluripotent stem cells (PSCs). This approach has raised new hopes in both basic research and medical applications. In this article, we looked at the principle of oocyte development, the landmark studies that enhanced our understanding of the cellular and molecular mechanisms that govern oogenesis in vivo, as well as the mechanisms underlying in vitro generation of functional oocytes from different sources of mouse and human stem cells. In addition, we introduced next-generation ART using somatic cells with artificial oocytes. Finally, we provided an overview of the reproductive application of in vitro oogenesis and its use in human fertility.
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18
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Bakloushinskaya I. Chromosome Changes in Soma and Germ Line: Heritability and Evolutionary Outcome. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:genes13040602. [PMID: 35456408 PMCID: PMC9029507 DOI: 10.3390/genes13040602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Revised: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The origin and inheritance of chromosome changes provide the essential foundation for natural selection and evolution. The evolutionary fate of chromosome changes depends on the place and time of their emergence and is controlled by checkpoints in mitosis and meiosis. Estimating whether the altered genome can be passed to subsequent generations should be central when we consider a particular genome rearrangement. Through comparative analysis of chromosome rearrangements in soma and germ line, the potential impact of macromutations such as chromothripsis or chromoplexy appears to be fascinating. What happens with chromosomes during the early development, and which alterations lead to mosaicism are other poorly studied but undoubtedly essential issues. The evolutionary impact can be gained most effectively through chromosome rearrangements arising in male meiosis I and in female meiosis II, which are the last divisions following fertilization. The diversity of genome organization has unique features in distinct animals; the chromosome changes, their internal relations, and some factors safeguarding genome maintenance in generations under natural selection were considered for mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irina Bakloushinskaya
- Koltzov Institute of Developmental Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 119334 Moscow, Russia
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19
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Spiller C, Bowles J. Instructing Mouse Germ Cells to Adopt a Female Fate. Sex Dev 2022:1-13. [PMID: 35320803 DOI: 10.1159/000523763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2022] [Accepted: 02/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Germ cells are critical for the survival of our species. They are the only cells that undergo meiosis - the reductive form of cell division that is necessary for genetic reassortment of chromosomes and production of the haploid gametes, the sperm and eggs. Remarkably, the initial female/male fate decision in fetal germ cells does not depend on whether they are chromosomally XX or XY; rather, initial sexual fate is imposed by influences from the surrounding tissue. In mammals, the female germline is particularly precious: despite recent suggestions that germline stem cells exist in the ovary, it is still generally accepted that the ovarian reserve is finite, and its size is dependant on germ cells of the fetal ovary initiating meiosis in a timely manner. SUMMARY Prior to 2006, evidence suggested that gonadal germ cells initiate meiotic prophase I by default, but more recent data support a key role for the signalling molecule retinoic acid (RA) in instructing female germ cell fate. Newer findings also support a key meiosis-inducing role for another signalling molecule, bone morphogenic protein (BMP). Nonetheless, many questions remain. KEY MESSAGES Here, we review knowledge thus far regarding extrinsic and intrinsic determinants of a female germ cell fate, focusing on the mouse model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cassy Spiller
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Josephine Bowles
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
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20
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary Herbert
- From the Newcastle Fertility Centre, Biosciences Institute, Newcastle University, and the Centre for Life, Newcastle upon Tyne (M.H.), and the Gurdon Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge (A.S.) - all in the United Kingdom
| | - Azim Surani
- From the Newcastle Fertility Centre, Biosciences Institute, Newcastle University, and the Centre for Life, Newcastle upon Tyne (M.H.), and the Gurdon Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge (A.S.) - all in the United Kingdom
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21
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Fang F, Iaquinta PJ, Xia N, Liu L, Diao L, Reijo Pera RA. OUP accepted manuscript. Hum Reprod Update 2022; 28:313-345. [PMID: 35297982 PMCID: PMC9071081 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmac002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2021] [Revised: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The pathways of gametogenesis encompass elaborate cellular specialization accompanied by precise partitioning of the genome content in order to produce fully matured spermatozoa and oocytes. Transcription factors are an important class of molecules that function in gametogenesis to regulate intrinsic gene expression programs, play essential roles in specifying (or determining) germ cell fate and assist in guiding full maturation of germ cells and maintenance of their populations. Moreover, in order to reinforce or redirect cell fate in vitro, it is transcription factors that are most frequently induced, over-expressed or activated. Many reviews have focused on the molecular development and genetics of gametogenesis, in vivo and in vitro, in model organisms and in humans, including several recent comprehensive reviews: here, we focus specifically on the role of transcription factors. Recent advances in stem cell biology and multi-omic studies have enabled deeper investigation into the unique transcriptional mechanisms of human reproductive development. Moreover, as methods continually improve, in vitro differentiation of germ cells can provide the platform for robust gain- and loss-of-function genetic analyses. These analyses are delineating unique and shared human germ cell transcriptional network components that, together with somatic lineage specifiers and pluripotency transcription factors, function in transitions from pluripotent stem cells to gametes. This grand theme review offers additional insight into human infertility and reproductive disorders that are linked predominantly to defects in the transcription factor networks and thus may potentially contribute to the development of novel treatments for infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang Fang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Phillip J Iaquinta
- Division of Research, Economic Development, and Graduate Education, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, CA, USA
| | - Ninuo Xia
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Lei Liu
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Lei Diao
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Renee A Reijo Pera
- Division of Research, Economic Development, and Graduate Education, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, CA, USA
- McLaughlin Research Institute, Great Falls, MT, USA
- Correspondence address. McLaughlin Research Institute, 1520 23rd Street South, Great Falls, MT 59405, USA. E-mail: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6487-1329
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22
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Wang H, Liu L, Liu C, Wang L, Chen J, Wang H, Heng D, Zeng M, Liu C, Zhou Z, Ye X, Wan Y, Li H, Liu L. Induction of meiosis by embryonic gonadal somatic cells differentiated from pluripotent stem cells. Stem Cell Res Ther 2021; 12:607. [PMID: 34930450 PMCID: PMC8686525 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-021-02672-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Depletion of oocytes leads to ovarian aging-associated infertility, endocrine disruption and related diseases. Excitingly, unlimited oocytes can be generated by differentiation of primordial germ cell like cells (PGCLCs) from pluripotent stem cells. Nevertheless, development of oocytes and follicles from PGCLCs relies on developmentally matched gonadal somatic cells, only available from E12.5 embryos in mice. It is therefore imperative to achieve an in vitro source of E12.5 gonadal somatic cells. Methods We explored to identify small molecules, which can induce female embryonic stem cells (ESCs) into gonadal somatic cell like cells. Results Using RNA-sequencing, we identified signaling pathways highly upregulated in E12.5_gonadal somatic cells (E12.5_GSCs). Through searching for the activators of these pathways, we identified small-molecule compounds Vitamin C (Vc) and AM580 in combination (V580) for inducing differentiation of female embryonic stem cells (ESCs) into E12.5_GSC-like cells (E12.5_GSCLCs). After V580 treatment for 6 days and sorted by a surface marker CD63, the cell population yielded a transcriptome profile similar to that of E12.5_GSCs, which promoted meiosis progression and folliculogenesis of primordial germ cells. This approach will contribute to the study of germ cell and follicle development and oocyte production and have implications in potentially treating female infertility. Conclusion ESCs can be induced into embryonic gonadal somatic cell like cells by small molecules. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13287-021-02672-4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haiying Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China.,Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, College of Life Sciences; The Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials Ministry of Education, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Linlin Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China.,Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, College of Life Sciences; The Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials Ministry of Education, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Chang Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China.,Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, College of Life Sciences; The Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials Ministry of Education, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Lingling Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China.,Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, College of Life Sciences; The Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials Ministry of Education, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Jiyu Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China.,Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, College of Life Sciences; The Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials Ministry of Education, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Huasong Wang
- Department of Cell Biology, College of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Dai Heng
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China.,Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, College of Life Sciences; The Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials Ministry of Education, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Ming Zeng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chun Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China.,Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, College of Life Sciences; The Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials Ministry of Education, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Zhongcheng Zhou
- Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510655, China
| | - Xiaoying Ye
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China.,Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, College of Life Sciences; The Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials Ministry of Education, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Yajuan Wan
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Huiyu Li
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China.,Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, College of Life Sciences; The Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials Ministry of Education, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Lin Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China. .,Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, College of Life Sciences; The Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials Ministry of Education, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China. .,The Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, 94 Weijin Road, Tianjin, 300071, China.
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23
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Zhao J, Lu P, Wan C, Huang Y, Cui M, Yang X, Hu Y, Zheng Y, Dong J, Wang M, Zhang S, Liu Z, Bian S, Wang X, Wang R, Ren S, Wang D, Yao Z, Chang G, Tang F, Zhao XY. Cell-fate transition and determination analysis of mouse male germ cells throughout development. Nat Commun 2021; 12:6839. [PMID: 34824237 PMCID: PMC8617176 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-27172-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Mammalian male germ cell development is a stepwise cell-fate transition process; however, the full-term developmental profile of male germ cells remains undefined. Here, by interrogating the high-precision transcriptome atlas of 11,598 cells covering 28 critical time-points, we demonstrate that cell-fate transition from mitotic to post-mitotic primordial germ cells is accompanied by transcriptome-scale reconfiguration and a transitional cell state. Notch signaling pathway is essential for initiating mitotic arrest and the maintenance of male germ cells' identities. Ablation of HELQ induces developmental arrest and abnormal transcriptome reprogramming of male germ cells, indicating the importance of cell cycle regulation for proper cell-fate transition. Finally, systematic human-mouse comparison reveals potential regulators whose deficiency contributed to human male infertility via mitotic arrest regulation. Collectively, our study provides an accurate and comprehensive transcriptome atlas of the male germline cycle and allows for an in-depth understanding of the cell-fate transition and determination underlying male germ cell development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiexiang Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Department of Developmental Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, 510515, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P. R. China
| | - Ping Lu
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Genomics (ICG), School of Life Sciences, Peking University, 100871, Beijing, P. R. China
- Biomedical Pioneering Innovation Center, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Differentiation, 100871, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Cong Wan
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Department of Developmental Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, 510515, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P. R. China
| | - Yaping Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Department of Developmental Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, 510515, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P. R. China
| | - Manman Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Department of Developmental Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, 510515, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P. R. China
| | - Xinyan Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Department of Developmental Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, 510515, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P. R. China
| | - Yuqiong Hu
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Genomics (ICG), School of Life Sciences, Peking University, 100871, Beijing, P. R. China
- Biomedical Pioneering Innovation Center, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Differentiation, 100871, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Yi Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Department of Developmental Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, 510515, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P. R. China
| | - Ji Dong
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Genomics (ICG), School of Life Sciences, Peking University, 100871, Beijing, P. R. China
- Biomedical Pioneering Innovation Center, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Differentiation, 100871, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Mei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Department of Developmental Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, 510515, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P. R. China
| | - Shu Zhang
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Genomics (ICG), School of Life Sciences, Peking University, 100871, Beijing, P. R. China
- Biomedical Pioneering Innovation Center, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Differentiation, 100871, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Zhaoting Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Department of Developmental Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, 510515, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P. R. China
| | - Shuhui Bian
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Genomics (ICG), School of Life Sciences, Peking University, 100871, Beijing, P. R. China
- Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies, Peking University, 100871, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Xiaoman Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Department of Developmental Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, 510515, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P. R. China
| | - Rui Wang
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Genomics (ICG), School of Life Sciences, Peking University, 100871, Beijing, P. R. China
- Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies, Peking University, 100871, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Shaofang Ren
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Department of Developmental Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, 510515, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P. R. China
| | - Dazhuang Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Department of Developmental Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, 510515, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P. R. China
| | - Zhaokai Yao
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Department of Developmental Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, 510515, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P. R. China
| | - Gang Chang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shenzhen University Health Science Center, 518060, Shenzhen, Guangdong, P. R. China.
| | - Fuchou Tang
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Genomics (ICG), School of Life Sciences, Peking University, 100871, Beijing, P. R. China.
- Biomedical Pioneering Innovation Center, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Differentiation, 100871, Beijing, P. R. China.
- Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies, Peking University, 100871, Beijing, P. R. China.
| | - Xiao-Yang Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Department of Developmental Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, 510515, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P. R. China.
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Construction and Detection in Tissue Engineering, Southern Medical University, 510515, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P. R. China.
- Guangzhou Regenerative Medicine and Health Guangdong Laboratory (GRMH-GDL), 510700, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P. R. China.
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Meiosis initiation: a story of two sexes in all creatures great and small. Biochem J 2021; 478:3791-3805. [PMID: 34709374 PMCID: PMC8589329 DOI: 10.1042/bcj20210412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2021] [Revised: 09/29/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Meiosis facilitates diversity across individuals and serves as a major driver of evolution. However, understanding how meiosis begins is complicated by fundamental differences that exist between sexes and species. Fundamental meiotic research is further hampered by a current lack of human meiotic cells lines. Consequently, much of what we know relies on data from model organisms. However, contextualising findings from yeast, worms, flies and mice can be challenging, due to marked differences in both nomenclature and the relative timing of meiosis. In this review, we set out to combine current knowledge of signalling and transcriptional pathways that control meiosis initiation across the sexes in a variety of organisms. Furthermore, we highlight the emerging links between meiosis initiation and oncogenesis, which might explain the frequent re-expression of normally silent meiotic genes in a variety of human cancers.
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25
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Liu X, Wang H, Liu B, Qi Z, Li J, Xu B, Liu W, Xu Z, Deng Y. The Latest Research Progress of m 6A Modification and Its Writers, Erasers, Readers in Infertility: A Review. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:681238. [PMID: 34568313 PMCID: PMC8461070 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.681238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Eukaryotic messenger mRNAs contain many RNA methyl chemical modifications, in which N6-methyladenosine (m6A) plays a very important role. The modification process of RNA methylation is a dynamic reversible regulatory process that is mainly catalyzed by "Writer" m6A methyltransferase, removed by "Eraser" m6A demethylase, and recognized by the m6A binding protein, thereby, linking m6A modification with other mRNA pathways. At various stages of the life cycle, m6A modification plays an extremely important role in regulating mRNA splicing, processing, translation, as well as degradation, and is associated with gametogenesis and fertility for both sexes. Normal gametogenesis is a basic guarantee of fertility. Infertility leads to trauma, affects harmony in the family and seriously affects the quality of life. We review the roles and mechanisms of RNA m6A methylation modification in infertility and provide a potential target for infertility treatment, which can be used for drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuda Liu
- Department of Public Health, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Haiying Wang
- Department of Public Health, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Bingchen Liu
- Department of Public Health, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Zhipeng Qi
- Department of Public Health, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Jiashuo Li
- Department of Public Health, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Bin Xu
- Department of Public Health, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Wei Liu
- Department of Public Health, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Zhaofa Xu
- Department of Public Health, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yu Deng
- Department of Public Health, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
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26
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Recchia K, Jorge AS, Pessôa LVDF, Botigelli RC, Zugaib VC, de Souza AF, Martins DDS, Ambrósio CE, Bressan FF, Pieri NCG. Actions and Roles of FSH in Germinative Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:10110. [PMID: 34576272 PMCID: PMC8470522 DOI: 10.3390/ijms221810110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Revised: 09/13/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) is produced by the pituitary gland in a coordinated hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis event, plays important roles in reproduction and germ cell development during different phases of reproductive development (fetal, neonatal, puberty, and adult life), and is consequently essential for fertility. FSH is a heterodimeric glycoprotein hormone of two dissociable subunits, α and β. The FSH β-subunit (FSHβ) function starts upon coupling to its specific receptor: follicle-stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR). FSHRs are localized mainly on the surface of target cells on the testis and ovary (granulosa and Sertoli cells) and have recently been found in testicular stem cells and extra-gonadal tissue. Several reproduction disorders are associated with absent or low FSH secretion, with mutation of the FSH β-subunit or the FSH receptor, and/or its signaling pathways. However, the influence of FSH on germ cells is still poorly understood; some studies have suggested that this hormone also plays a determinant role in the self-renewal of germinative cells and acts to increase undifferentiated spermatogonia proliferation. In addition, in vitro, together with other factors, it assists the process of differentiation of primordial germ cells (PGCLCs) into gametes (oocyte-like and SSCLCs). In this review, we describe relevant research on the influence of FSH on spermatogenesis and folliculogenesis, mainly in the germ cell of humans and other species. The possible roles of FSH in germ cell generation in vitro are also presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaiana Recchia
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 01001-010, Brazil; (K.R.); (F.F.B.)
| | - Amanda Soares Jorge
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, School of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, University of Sao Paulo, Pirassununga 13635-900, Brazil; (A.S.J.); (L.V.d.F.P.); (R.C.B.); (V.C.Z.); (D.d.S.M.); (C.E.A.)
| | - Laís Vicari de Figueiredo Pessôa
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, School of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, University of Sao Paulo, Pirassununga 13635-900, Brazil; (A.S.J.); (L.V.d.F.P.); (R.C.B.); (V.C.Z.); (D.d.S.M.); (C.E.A.)
| | - Ramon Cesar Botigelli
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, School of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, University of Sao Paulo, Pirassununga 13635-900, Brazil; (A.S.J.); (L.V.d.F.P.); (R.C.B.); (V.C.Z.); (D.d.S.M.); (C.E.A.)
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu 18618-970, Brazil
| | - Vanessa Cristiane Zugaib
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, School of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, University of Sao Paulo, Pirassununga 13635-900, Brazil; (A.S.J.); (L.V.d.F.P.); (R.C.B.); (V.C.Z.); (D.d.S.M.); (C.E.A.)
| | - Aline Fernanda de Souza
- Department Biomedical Science, Ontary Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada;
| | - Daniele dos Santos Martins
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, School of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, University of Sao Paulo, Pirassununga 13635-900, Brazil; (A.S.J.); (L.V.d.F.P.); (R.C.B.); (V.C.Z.); (D.d.S.M.); (C.E.A.)
| | - Carlos Eduardo Ambrósio
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, School of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, University of Sao Paulo, Pirassununga 13635-900, Brazil; (A.S.J.); (L.V.d.F.P.); (R.C.B.); (V.C.Z.); (D.d.S.M.); (C.E.A.)
| | - Fabiana Fernandes Bressan
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 01001-010, Brazil; (K.R.); (F.F.B.)
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, School of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, University of Sao Paulo, Pirassununga 13635-900, Brazil; (A.S.J.); (L.V.d.F.P.); (R.C.B.); (V.C.Z.); (D.d.S.M.); (C.E.A.)
| | - Naira Caroline Godoy Pieri
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, School of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, University of Sao Paulo, Pirassununga 13635-900, Brazil; (A.S.J.); (L.V.d.F.P.); (R.C.B.); (V.C.Z.); (D.d.S.M.); (C.E.A.)
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27
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Porras-Gómez TJ, Villagrán-SantaCruz M, Moreno-Mendoza N. Biology of primordial germ cells in vertebrates with emphasis in urodeles amphibians. Mol Reprod Dev 2021; 88:773-792. [PMID: 34532913 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2021] [Revised: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Primordial germ cells (PGCs) are highly specialized cells that play a relevant role in the maintenance and evolution of the species, since they create new combinations of genetic information between the organisms. Amphibians are a class of amniote vertebrates that are divided into three subclasses, the anurans (frogs and toads), the urodeles (salamanders and newts), and the gymnophiones (caecilians). The study of PGCs in amphibians has been addressed in more detail in anurans while little is known about the biology of this cell lineage in urodeles. Studies in some urodeles species have suggested that PGCs are of mesodermal origin, specifying in the lateral plate mesoderm at the late gastrula stage. With classical experiments it shown that, there is an induction of mesoderm, therefore most likely urodeles PGCs develop from unspecialized mesodermal tissue that responds to extracellular signals. However, some fundamental biological processes of PGCs such as the analysis of their specification, arrival, and colonization to the gonads, and their maintenance and differentiation into mature and fertile gametes remain to be elucidated. Therefore, knowledge about the biology of PGCs is of great importance to ensure the perpetuation of urodeles amphibians, as some species are in danger of becoming extinct.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tania J Porras-Gómez
- Laboratorio de Biología Tisular y Reproductora, Departamento de Biología Comparada, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Maricela Villagrán-SantaCruz
- Laboratorio de Biología Tisular y Reproductora, Departamento de Biología Comparada, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Norma Moreno-Mendoza
- Departamento de Biología Celular y Fisiología, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, México
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28
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Munisha M, Schimenti JC. Genome maintenance during embryogenesis. DNA Repair (Amst) 2021; 106:103195. [PMID: 34358805 DOI: 10.1016/j.dnarep.2021.103195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Revised: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Genome maintenance during embryogenesis is critical, because defects during this period can be perpetuated and thus have a long-term impact on individual's health and longevity. Nevertheless, genome instability is normal during certain aspects of embryonic development, indicating that there is a balance between the exigencies of timely cell proliferation and mutation prevention. In particular, early embryos possess unique cellular and molecular features that underscore the challenge of having an appropriate balance. Here, we discuss genome instability during embryonic development, the mechanisms used in various cell compartments to manage genomic stress and address outstanding questions regarding the balance between genome maintenance mechanisms in key cell types that are important for adulthood and progeny.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mumingjiang Munisha
- Dept. of Biomedical Sciences, Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, Ithaca, NY 14853, United States
| | - John C Schimenti
- Dept. of Biomedical Sciences, Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, Ithaca, NY 14853, United States.
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29
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Le Rolle M, Massa F, Siggers P, Turchi L, Loubat A, Koo BK, Clevers H, Greenfield A, Schedl A, Chaboissier MC, Chassot AA. Arrest of WNT/β-catenin signaling enables the transition from pluripotent to differentiated germ cells in mouse ovaries. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2021; 118:e2023376118. [PMID: 34301885 PMCID: PMC8325354 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2023376118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Germ cells form the basis for sexual reproduction by producing gametes. In ovaries, primordial germ cells exit the cell cycle and the pluripotency-associated state, differentiate into oogonia, and initiate meiosis. Despite the importance of germ cell differentiation for sexual reproduction, signaling pathways regulating their fate remain largely unknown. Here, we show in mouse embryonic ovaries that germ cell-intrinsic β-catenin activity maintains pluripotency and that its repression is essential to allow differentiation and meiosis entry in a timely manner. Accordingly, in β-catenin loss-of-function and gain-of-function mouse models, the germ cells precociously enter meiosis or remain in the pluripotent state, respectively. We further show that interaction of β-catenin and the pluripotent-associated factor POU5F1 in the nucleus is associated with germ cell pluripotency. The exit of this complex from the nucleus correlates with germ cell differentiation, a process promoted by the up-regulation of Znrf3, a negative regulator of WNT/β-catenin signaling. Together, these data identify the molecular basis of the transition from primordial germ cells to oogonia and demonstrate that β-catenin is a central gatekeeper in ovarian differentiation and gametogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Morgane Le Rolle
- CNRS, Inserm, Institut de Biologie Valrose, Université Côte d'Azur, Parc Valrose, 06108 Nice Cedex 2, France
| | - Filippo Massa
- CNRS, Inserm, Institut de Biologie Valrose, Université Côte d'Azur, Parc Valrose, 06108 Nice Cedex 2, France
- Inovarion, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Pam Siggers
- Mammalian Genetics Unit, Medical Research Council Harwell Institute, Oxfordshire OX11 0RD, United Kingdom
| | - Laurent Turchi
- CNRS, Inserm, Institut de Biologie Valrose, Université Côte d'Azur, Parc Valrose, 06108 Nice Cedex 2, France
- Délégation à la Recherche Clinique et à l'Innovation, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nice, 06000 Nice, France
| | - Agnès Loubat
- CNRS, Inserm, Institut de Biologie Valrose, Université Côte d'Azur, Parc Valrose, 06108 Nice Cedex 2, France
| | - Bon-Kyoung Koo
- Hubrecht Institute, Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences, 3584 CT Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, Vienna Biocenter, 1030 Vienna, Austria
| | - Hans Clevers
- Hubrecht Institute, Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences, 3584 CT Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Andy Greenfield
- Mammalian Genetics Unit, Medical Research Council Harwell Institute, Oxfordshire OX11 0RD, United Kingdom
| | - Andreas Schedl
- CNRS, Inserm, Institut de Biologie Valrose, Université Côte d'Azur, Parc Valrose, 06108 Nice Cedex 2, France
| | - Marie-Christine Chaboissier
- CNRS, Inserm, Institut de Biologie Valrose, Université Côte d'Azur, Parc Valrose, 06108 Nice Cedex 2, France
| | - Anne-Amandine Chassot
- CNRS, Inserm, Institut de Biologie Valrose, Université Côte d'Azur, Parc Valrose, 06108 Nice Cedex 2, France;
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30
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Soygur B, Laird DJ. Ovary Development: Insights From a Three-Dimensional Imaging Revolution. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:698315. [PMID: 34381780 PMCID: PMC8351467 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.698315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 07/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The ovary is an indispensable unit of female reproduction and health. However, the study of ovarian function in mammals is hindered by unique challenges, which include the desynchronized development of oocytes, irregular distribution and vast size discrepancy of follicles, and dynamic tissue remodeling during each hormonal cycle. Overcoming the limitations of traditional histology, recent advances in optical tissue clearing and three-dimensional (3D) visualization offer an advanced platform to explore the architecture of intact organs at a single cell level and reveal new relationships and levels of organization. Here we summarize the development and function of ovarian compartments that have been delineated by conventional two-dimensional (2D) methods and the limits of what can be learned by these approaches. We compare types of optical tissue clearing, 3D analysis technologies, and their application to the mammalian ovary. We discuss how 3D modeling of the ovary has extended our knowledge and propose future directions to unravel ovarian structure toward therapeutic applications for ovarian disease and extending female reproductive lifespan.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Diana J. Laird
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, Center for Reproductive Sciences, Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
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31
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Rodrigues P, Limback D, McGinnis L, Marques M, Aibar J, Plancha CE. Germ-Somatic Cell Interactions Are Involved in Establishing the Follicle Reserve in Mammals. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:674137. [PMID: 34195191 PMCID: PMC8236641 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.674137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2021] [Accepted: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Mammalian females are born with a finite reserve of ovarian follicles, the functional units of the ovary. Building an ovarian follicle involves a complex interaction between multiple cell types, of which the oocyte germ cell and the somatic granulosa cells play a major role. Germ–somatic cell interactions are modulated by factors of different cell origins that influence ovarian development. In early development, failure in correct germ–somatic cell communication can cause abnormalities in ovarian development. These abnormalities can lead to deficient oocyte differentiation, to a diminished ovarian follicle reserve, and consequently to early loss of fertility. However, oocyte–granulosa cell communication is also extremely important for the acquisition of oocyte competence until ovulation. In this paper, we will visit the establishment of follicle reserve, with particular emphasis in germ–somatic cell interactions, and their importance for human fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrícia Rodrigues
- Centro Médico de Assistência à Reprodução (CEMEARE), Lisbon, Portugal.,Escola de Psicologia e Ciências da Vida, Universidade Lusófona de Humanidades e Tecnologias, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Darlene Limback
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas, KS, United States
| | - Lynda McGinnis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Mónica Marques
- Centro Médico de Assistência à Reprodução (CEMEARE), Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Juan Aibar
- Centro Médico de Assistência à Reprodução (CEMEARE), Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Carlos E Plancha
- Centro Médico de Assistência à Reprodução (CEMEARE), Lisbon, Portugal.,Instituto de Histologia e Biologia do Desenvolvimento, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
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32
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Xia Q, Cui G, Fan Y, Wang X, Hu G, Wang L, Luo X, Yang L, Cai Q, Xu K, Guo W, Gao M, Li Y, Wu J, Li W, Chen J, Qi H, Peng G, Yao H. RNA helicase DDX5 acts as a critical regulator for survival of neonatal mouse gonocytes. Cell Prolif 2021; 54:e13000. [PMID: 33666296 PMCID: PMC8088469 DOI: 10.1111/cpr.13000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2020] [Revised: 01/11/2021] [Accepted: 01/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Mammalian spermatogenesis is a biological process of male gamete formation. Gonocytes are the only precursors of spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) which develop into mature spermatozoa. DDX5 is one of DEAD-box RNA helicases and expresses in male germ cells, suggesting that Ddx5 plays important functions during spermatogenesis. Here, we explore the functions of Ddx5 in regulating the specification of gonocytes. MATERIALS AND METHODS Germ cell-specific Ddx5 knockout (Ddx5-/- ) mice were generated. The morphology of testes and epididymides and fertility in both wild-type and Ddx5-/- mice were analysed. Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) was used to profile the transcriptome in testes from wild-type and Ddx5-/- mice at postnatal day (P) 2. Dysregulated genes were validated by single-cell qRT-PCR and immunofluorescent staining. RESULTS In male mice, Ddx5 was expressed in germ cells at different stages of development. Germ cell-specific Ddx5 knockout adult male mice were sterile due to completely devoid of germ cells. Male germ cells gradually disappeared in Ddx5-/- mice from E18.5 to P6. Single-cell transcriptome analysis showed that genes involved in cell cycle and glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) pathway were significantly decreased in Ddx5-deficient gonocytes. Notably, Ddx5 ablation impeded the proliferation of gonocytes. CONCLUSIONS Our study reveals the critical roles of Ddx5 in fate determination of gonocytes, offering a novel insight into the pathogenesis of male sterility.
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Nicholls PK, Page DC. Germ cell determination and the developmental origin of germ cell tumors. Development 2021; 148:239824. [PMID: 33913479 DOI: 10.1242/dev.198150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
In each generation, the germline is tasked with producing somatic lineages that form the body, and segregating a population of cells for gametogenesis. During animal development, when do cells of the germline irreversibly commit to producing gametes? Integrating findings from diverse species, we conclude that the final commitment of the germline to gametogenesis - the process of germ cell determination - occurs after primordial germ cells (PGCs) colonize the gonads. Combining this understanding with medical findings, we present a model whereby germ cell tumors arise from cells that failed to undertake germ cell determination, regardless of their having colonized the gonads. We propose that the diversity of cell types present in these tumors reflects the broad developmental potential of migratory PGCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter K Nicholls
- Whitehead Institute, 455 Main Street, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA.,Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Bradford, Bradford BD7 1DP, UK
| | - David C Page
- Whitehead Institute, 455 Main Street, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA.,Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA.,Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Whitehead Institute, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
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Spermatogonial Stem Cell Transplantation in Large Animals. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11040918. [PMID: 33805058 PMCID: PMC8064064 DOI: 10.3390/ani11040918] [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: 12/05/2020] [Revised: 03/16/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The spermatogonial stem cell (SSC) is the only adult stem cell in males to transmit genetic information to offspring. SSC transplantation (SSCT) is a laboratory technique to regenerate spermatogenesis in recipient males, thus can be used as a novel breeding tool to benefit animal production. Although successful SSCT in rodent models has been established, progress in realizing SSCT in large animals has been limited. Here we discuss what we learned in this area from past experiments and highlight possible directions in developing effective SSCT protocol in large animals. Abstract Spermatogonial stem cell transplantation (SSCT) can restore male fertility through transfer of germline between donor and recipient males. From an agricultural perspective, SSCT could be an important next-generation reproductive and breeding tool in livestock production. Current SSCT approaches in large animals remain inefficient and many technical details need further investigation. This paper reviews the current knowledge on SSCT in large animals, addressing (1) donor spermatogonial stem cell (SSC) preparation, (2) recipient male treatment, and (3) SSC injection, homing, and detection. The major studies showing unequivocal evidence of donor SSC-derived spermatogenesis in large animals (mainly in livestock for breeding purpose) are summarized to discuss the current status of the field and future directions.
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de Souza AF, Pieri NCG, Martins DDS. Step by Step about Germ Cells Development in Canine. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11030598. [PMID: 33668687 PMCID: PMC7996183 DOI: 10.3390/ani11030598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2020] [Revised: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The progression of germ cells is a remarkable event that allows biological discovery in the differ-entiation process during in vivo and in vitro development. This is crucial for understanding one toward making oogenesis and spermatogenesis. Companion animals, such as canine, could offer new animal models for experimental and clinical testing for translation to human models. In this review, we describe the latest and more relevant findings on germ cell development. In addition, we showed the methods available for obtaining germ cells in vitro and the characterization of pri-mordial germ cells and spermatogonial stem cells. However, it is necessary to further conduct basic research in canine to clarify the beginning of germ cell development. Abstract Primordial germ cells (PGCs) have been described as precursors of gametes and provide a connection within generations, passing on the genome to the next generation. Failures in the formation of gametes/germ cells can compromise the maintenance and conservation of species. Most of the studies with PGCs have been carried out in mice, but this species is not always the best study model when transposing this knowledge to humans. Domestic animals, such as canines (canine), have become a valuable translational research model for stem cells and therapy. Furthermore, the study of canine germ cells opens new avenues for veterinary reproduction. In this review, the objective is to provide a comprehensive overview of the current knowledge on canine germ cells. The aspects of canine development and germ cells have been discussed since the origin, specifications, and development of spermatogonial canine were first discussed. Additionally, we discussed and explored some in vitro aspects of canine reproduction with germ cells, such as embryonic germ cells and spermatogonial stem cells.
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Ohta H, Yabuta Y, Kurimoto K, Nakamura T, Murase Y, Yamamoto T, Saitou M. Cyclosporin A and FGF signaling support the proliferation/survival of mouse primordial germ cell-like cells in vitro†. Biol Reprod 2020; 104:344-360. [PMID: 33079185 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioaa195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2020] [Revised: 09/29/2020] [Accepted: 10/19/2020] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Primordial germ cells (PGCs) are the founding population of the germ cell lineage that undergo a multistep process to generate spermatozoa or oocytes. Establishing an appropriate culture system for PGCs is a key challenge in reproductive biology. By a chemical screening using mouse PGC-like cells (mPGCLCs), which were induced from mouse embryonic stem cells, we reported previously that forskolin and rolipram synergistically enhanced the proliferation/survival of mPGCLCs with an average expansion rate of ~20-fold. In the present study, we evaluated other chemicals or cytokines to see whether they would improve the current mPGCLC culture system. Among the chemicals and cytokines examined, in the presence of forskolin and rolipram, cyclosporin A (CsA) and fibroblast growth factors (FGFs: FGF2 and FGF10) effectively enhanced the expansion of mPGCLCs in vitro (~50-fold on average). During the expansion by CsA or FGFs, mPGCLCs comprehensively erased their DNA methylation to acquire a profile equivalent to that of gonadal germ cells in vivo, while maintaining their highly motile phenotype as well as their transcriptional properties as sexually uncommitted PGCs. Importantly, these mPGCLCs robustly contributed to spermatogenesis and produced fertile offspring. Furthermore, mouse PGCs (mPGCs) cultured with CsA ex vivo showed transcriptomes and DNA methylomes similar to those of cultured mPGCLCs. The improved culture system for mPGCLCs/mPGCs would be instructive for addressing key questions in PGC biology, including the mechanisms for germ cell migration, epigenetic reprogramming, and sex determination of the germline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Ohta
- Institute for the Advanced Study of Human Biology (ASHBi), Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan.,Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yukihiro Yabuta
- Institute for the Advanced Study of Human Biology (ASHBi), Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan.,Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Kazuki Kurimoto
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan.,Department of Embryology, Nara Medical University, Nara, Japan
| | - Tomonori Nakamura
- Institute for the Advanced Study of Human Biology (ASHBi), Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan.,Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yusuke Murase
- Institute for the Advanced Study of Human Biology (ASHBi), Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan.,Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Takuya Yamamoto
- Institute for the Advanced Study of Human Biology (ASHBi), Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan.,Center for iPS Cell Research and Application, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan.,The Japan Agency for Medical Research and Development-Core Research for Evolutional Science and Technology, Tokyo, Japan.,Medical-risk Avoidance based on iPS Cells Team, RIKEN Center for Advanced Intelligence Project, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Mitinori Saitou
- Institute for the Advanced Study of Human Biology (ASHBi), Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan.,Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan.,Center for iPS Cell Research and Application, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
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Zhai QY, Wang JJ, Tian Y, Liu X, Song Z. Review of psychological stress on oocyte and early embryonic development in female mice. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2020; 18:101. [PMID: 33050936 PMCID: PMC7552561 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-020-00657-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2020] [Accepted: 10/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Psychological stress can cause adverse health effects in animals and humans. Accumulating evidence suggests that psychological stress in female mice is associated with ovarian developmental abnormalities accompanied by follicle and oocyte defects. Oocyte and early embryonic development are impaired in mice facing psychological stress, likely resulting from hormone signalling disorders, reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation and alterations in epigenetic modifications, which are primarily mediated by the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) and hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian (HPO) axes. The present evidence suggests that psychological stress is increasingly becoming the most common causative factor for female subfertility. Here, we review recent progress on the impact of psychological stress on female reproduction, particularly for oocyte and early embryonic development in female mice. This review highlights the connection between psychological stress and reproductive health and provides novel insight on human subfertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiu-Yue Zhai
- grid.410645.20000 0001 0455 0905School of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071 China
- grid.410645.20000 0001 0455 0905Qingdao Medical College, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071 China
| | - Jun-Jie Wang
- grid.412608.90000 0000 9526 6338College of Life Sciences, Institute of Reproductive Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109 China
| | - Yu Tian
- grid.412608.90000 0000 9526 6338College of Life Sciences, Institute of Reproductive Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109 China
| | - Xiaofang Liu
- grid.43308.3c0000 0000 9413 3760Yellow Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Qingdao, 266071 China
| | - Zhenhua Song
- grid.410645.20000 0001 0455 0905School of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071 China
- grid.410645.20000 0001 0455 0905Qingdao Medical College, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071 China
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38
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Edelsztein NY, Rey RA. Regulation of meiosis initiation in the mammalian testis: novel aspects. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.coemr.2020.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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39
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Unique Epigenetic Programming Distinguishes Regenerative Spermatogonial Stem Cells in the Developing Mouse Testis. iScience 2020; 23:101596. [PMID: 33083754 PMCID: PMC7552105 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2020.101596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Revised: 08/17/2020] [Accepted: 09/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) both self-renew and give rise to progenitors that initiate spermatogenic differentiation in the mammalian testis. Questions remain regarding the extent to which the SSC and progenitor states are functionally distinct. Here we provide the first multiparametric integrative analysis of mammalian germ cell epigenomes comparable with that done for >100 somatic cell types by the ENCODE Project. Differentially expressed genes distinguishing SSC- and progenitor-enriched spermatogonia showed distinct histone modification patterns, particularly for H3K27ac and H3K27me3. Motif analysis predicted transcription factors that may regulate spermatogonial subtype-specific fate, and immunohistochemistry and gene-specific chromatin immunoprecipitation analyses confirmed subtype-specific differences in target gene binding of a subset of these factors. Taken together, these results show that SSCs and progenitors display distinct epigenetic profiling consistent with these spermatogonial subtypes being differentially programmed to either self-renew and maintain regenerative capacity as SSCs or lose regenerative capacity and initiate lineage commitment as progenitors.
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40
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Roelen BAJ. Bovine oocyte maturation: acquisition of developmental competence. Reprod Fertil Dev 2020; 32:98-103. [PMID: 32188561 DOI: 10.1071/rd19255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Although millions of oocytes are formed during embryo and fetal development in the cow, only a small fraction of these will form a developmentally competent oocyte and be fertilised. Development to competence relies on an intimate contact between the oocyte and the surrounding somatic cells in ovarian follicles, via both direct cell-cell contact and paracrine signalling. An important aspect of oocyte maturation is the segregation of homologous chromosomes and subsequently sister chromatids to form a haploid oocyte. Furthermore, the cytoplasm needs to be prepared for the formation of pronuclei and nuclear reprogramming to form a totipotent zygote. Conditions such as high levels of fatty acids or oxidative stress constrain the developmental competence of oocytes, and a better insight into these processes may help improve in vitro and in vivo oocyte maturation success. In addition, identification of the developmentally competent oocyte is useful for the efficiency of (artificial) reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernard A J Roelen
- Department of Farm Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Uppsalalaan 8, 3584CT Utrecht, Netherlands.
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41
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Cremonesi F, Bonfanti S, Idda A, Lange-Consiglio A. Platelet Rich Plasma for Regenerative Medicine Treatment of Bovine Ovarian Hypofunction. Front Vet Sci 2020; 7:517. [PMID: 32903508 PMCID: PMC7438405 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2020.00517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2020] [Accepted: 07/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent studies on cull cows have shown that ovarian abnormalities, particularly ovarian insufficiency, are the main cause of reproductive failure. The aim of this study was to treat bovine ovarian failure with intraovarian administration of autologous platelet rich plasma (PRP), which is rich in growth factors, chemokines, and cytokines that could stimulate follicular growth and steroidogenesis. Twelve cows with ovarian hypofunction were enrolled in the study and they were randomly allocated in control group (CTR) and treated group (six animal for group). In the treated group, only five animals received the PRP treatment because intraovarian administration was hindered in one by a rectovaginal fistula. Animals of control group were treated by intraovarian administration of physiological solution. In the 4 weeks after PRP injection, a mild to strong increase in progesterone (PRG) concentrations was detected in four of the five cows treated. Artificial insemination (AI) resulted in four pregnancies that are still ongoing (7th month). Intraovarian administration of PRP improved ovarian function after 2 months of treatment. This effect may be due to reduction of follicular atresia or to revitalization of dormant oocytes allowing restoration of fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fausto Cremonesi
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Antonella Idda
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Anna Lange-Consiglio
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
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42
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Barreñada O, Fernández-Pérez D, Larriba E, Brieño-Enriquez M, Del Mazo J. Diversification of piRNAs expressed in PGCs and somatic cells during embryonic gonadal development. RNA Biol 2020; 17:1309-1323. [PMID: 32375541 DOI: 10.1080/15476286.2020.1757908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
piRNAs are small non-coding RNAs known to play a main role in defence against transposable elements in germ cells. However, other potential functions, such as biogenesis and differences in somatic and germline expression of these regulatory elements, are not yet fully unravelled. Here, we analysed a variety of piRNA sequences detected in mouse male and female primordial germ cells (PGCs) and gonadal somatic cells at crucial stages during embryonic differentiation of germ cells (11.5-13.5 days post-coitum). NGS of sncRNA and bioinformatic characterization of piRNAs from PGCs and somatic cells, in addition to piRNAs associated with TEs, indicated functional diversification in both cell types. Differences in the proportion of the diverse types of piRNAs are detected between somatic and germline during development. However, the global diversified patterns of piRNA expression are mainly shared between germ and somatic cells, we identified piRNAs related with molecules involved in ribosome components and translation pathway, including piRNAs derived from rRNA (34%), tRNA (10%) and snoRNA (8%). piRNAs from both tRNA and snoRNA are mainly derived from 3' and 5' end regions. These connections between piRNAs and rRNAs, tRNAs or snoRNAs suggest important functions of specialized piRNAs in translation regulation during this window of gonadal development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Odei Barreñada
- Department of Cellular & Molecular Biology, Centro De Investigaciones Biológicas C.I.B. (CSIC) , Madrid, Spain
| | - Daniel Fernández-Pérez
- Department of Cellular & Molecular Biology, Centro De Investigaciones Biológicas C.I.B. (CSIC) , Madrid, Spain
| | - Eduardo Larriba
- Department of Cellular & Molecular Biology, Centro De Investigaciones Biológicas C.I.B. (CSIC) , Madrid, Spain
| | - Miguel Brieño-Enriquez
- Department of Cellular & Molecular Biology, Centro De Investigaciones Biológicas C.I.B. (CSIC) , Madrid, Spain
| | - Jesús Del Mazo
- Department of Cellular & Molecular Biology, Centro De Investigaciones Biológicas C.I.B. (CSIC) , Madrid, Spain
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43
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The study and manipulation of spermatogonial stem cells using animal models. Cell Tissue Res 2020; 380:393-414. [PMID: 32337615 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-020-03212-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2020] [Accepted: 03/30/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) are a rare group of cells in the testis that undergo self-renewal and complex sequences of differentiation to initiate and sustain spermatogenesis, to ensure the continuity of sperm production throughout adulthood. The difficulty of unequivocal identification of SSCs and complexity of replicating their differentiation properties in vitro have prompted the introduction of novel in vivo models such as germ cell transplantation (GCT), testis tissue xenografting (TTX), and testis cell aggregate implantation (TCAI). Owing to these unique animal models, our ability to study and manipulate SSCs has dramatically increased, which complements the availability of other advanced assisted reproductive technologies and various genome editing tools. These animal models can advance our knowledge of SSCs, testis tissue morphogenesis and development, germ-somatic cell interactions, and mechanisms that control spermatogenesis. Equally important, these animal models can have a wide range of experimental and potential clinical applications in fertility preservation of prepubertal cancer patients, and genetic conservation of endangered species. Moreover, these models allow experimentations that are otherwise difficult or impossible to be performed directly in the target species. Examples include proof-of-principle manipulation of germ cells for correction of genetic disorders or investigation of potential toxicants or new drugs on human testis formation or function. The primary focus of this review is to highlight the importance, methodology, current and potential future applications, as well as limitations of using these novel animal models in the study and manipulation of male germline stem cells.
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Sato M, Takabayashi S, Akasaka E, Nakamura S. Recent Advances and Future Perspectives of In Vivo Targeted Delivery of Genome-Editing Reagents to Germ Cells, Embryos, and Fetuses in Mice. Cells 2020; 9:cells9040799. [PMID: 32225003 PMCID: PMC7226049 DOI: 10.3390/cells9040799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2020] [Revised: 03/21/2020] [Accepted: 03/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The recently discovered clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)-associated protein 9 (Cas9) systems that occur in nature as microbial adaptive immune systems are considered an important tool in assessing the function of genes of interest in various biological systems. Thus, development of efficient and simple methods to produce genome-edited (GE) animals would accelerate research in this field. The CRISPR/Cas9 system was initially employed in early embryos, utilizing classical gene delivery methods such as microinjection or electroporation, which required ex vivo handling of zygotes before transfer to recipients. Recently, novel in vivo methods such as genome editing via oviductal nucleic acid delivery (GONAD), improved GONAD (i-GONAD), or transplacental gene delivery for acquiring genome-edited fetuses (TPGD-GEF), which facilitate easy embryo manipulation, have been established. Studies utilizing these techniques employed pregnant female mice for direct introduction of the genome-editing components into the oviduct or were dependent on delivery via tail-vein injection. In mice, embryogenesis occurs within the oviducts and the uterus, which often hampers the genetic manipulation of embryos, especially those at early postimplantation stages (days 6 to 8), owing to a thick surrounding layer of tissue called decidua. In this review, we have surveyed the recent achievements in the production of GE mice and have outlined the advantages and disadvantages of the process. We have also referred to the past achievements in gene delivery to early postimplantation stage embryos and germ cells such as primordial germ cells and spermatogonial stem cells, which will benefit relevant research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masahiro Sato
- Section of Gene Expression Regulation, Frontier Science Research Center, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima 890-8544, Japan;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-99-275-5246
| | - Shuji Takabayashi
- Laboratory Animal Facilities & Services, Preeminent Medical Photonics Education & Research Center, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, 1-20-1 Handayama, Higashi-ku, Hamamatsu, Shizuoka 431-3192, Japan;
| | - Eri Akasaka
- Section of Gene Expression Regulation, Frontier Science Research Center, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima 890-8544, Japan;
| | - Shingo Nakamura
- Division of Biomedical Engineering, National Defense Medical College Research Institute, Saitama 359-8513, Japan;
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Molè MA, Weberling A, Zernicka-Goetz M. Comparative analysis of human and mouse development: From zygote to pre-gastrulation. Curr Top Dev Biol 2019; 136:113-138. [PMID: 31959285 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ctdb.2019.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Development of the mammalian embryo begins with formation of the totipotent zygote during fertilization. This initial cell is able to give rise to every embryonic tissue of the developing organism as well as all extra-embryonic lineages, such as the placenta and the yolk sac, which are essential for the initial patterning and support growth of the fetus until birth. As the embryo transits from pre- to post-implantation, major structural and transcriptional changes occur within the embryonic lineage to set up the basis for the subsequent phase of gastrulation. Fine-tuned coordination of cell division, morphogenesis and differentiation is essential to ultimately promote assembly of the future fetus. Here, we review the current knowledge of mammalian development of both mouse and human focusing on morphogenetic processes leading to the onset of gastrulation, when the embryonic anterior-posterior axis becomes established and the three germ layers start to be specified.
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46
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Nicholls PK, Schorle H, Naqvi S, Hu YC, Fan Y, Carmell MA, Dobrinski I, Watson AL, Carlson DF, Fahrenkrug SC, Page DC. Mammalian germ cells are determined after PGC colonization of the nascent gonad. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2019; 116:25677-25687. [PMID: 31754036 PMCID: PMC6925976 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1910733116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Mammalian primordial germ cells (PGCs) are induced in the embryonic epiblast, before migrating to the nascent gonads. In fish, frogs, and birds, the germline segregates even earlier, through the action of maternally inherited germ plasm. Across vertebrates, migrating PGCs retain a broad developmental potential, regardless of whether they were induced or maternally segregated. In mammals, this potential is indicated by expression of pluripotency factors, and the ability to generate teratomas and pluripotent cell lines. How the germline loses this developmental potential remains unknown. Our genome-wide analyses of embryonic human and mouse germlines reveal a conserved transcriptional program, initiated in PGCs after gonadal colonization, that differentiates germ cells from their germline precursors and from somatic lineages. Through genetic studies in mice and pigs, we demonstrate that one such gonad-induced factor, the RNA-binding protein DAZL, is necessary in vivo to restrict the developmental potential of the germline; DAZL's absence prolongs expression of a Nanog pluripotency reporter, facilitates derivation of pluripotent cell lines, and causes spontaneous gonadal teratomas. Based on these observations in humans, mice, and pigs, we propose that germ cells are determined after gonadal colonization in mammals. We suggest that germ cell determination was induced late in embryogenesis-after organogenesis has begun-in the common ancestor of all vertebrates, as in modern mammals, where this transition is induced by somatic cells of the gonad. We suggest that failure of this process of germ cell determination likely accounts for the origin of human testis cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hubert Schorle
- Whitehead Institute, Cambridge, MA 02142
- Department of Developmental Pathology, Institute of Pathology, University of Bonn Medical School, 53127 Bonn, Germany
| | - Sahin Naqvi
- Whitehead Institute, Cambridge, MA 02142
- Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139
| | - Yueh-Chiang Hu
- Whitehead Institute, Cambridge, MA 02142
- Division of Developmental Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45267
| | - Yuting Fan
- Whitehead Institute, Cambridge, MA 02142
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, 510655 Guangzhou, China
| | | | - Ina Dobrinski
- Department of Comparative Biology & Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada
| | | | | | | | - David C Page
- Whitehead Institute, Cambridge, MA 02142;
- Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Whitehead Institute, Cambridge, MA 02142
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47
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Retinoic Acid and Germ Cell Development in the Ovary and Testis. Biomolecules 2019; 9:biom9120775. [PMID: 31771306 PMCID: PMC6995559 DOI: 10.3390/biom9120775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2019] [Revised: 11/22/2019] [Accepted: 11/23/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Retinoic acid (RA), a derivative of vitamin A, is critical for the production of oocytes and sperm in mammals. These gametes derive from primordial germ cells, which colonize the nascent gonad, and later undertake sexual differentiation to produce oocytes or sperm. During fetal development, germ cells in the ovary initiate meiosis in response to RA, whereas those in the testis do not yet initiate meiosis, as they are insulated from RA, and undergo cell cycle arrest. After birth, male germ cells resume proliferation and undergo a transition to spermatogonia, which are destined to develop into haploid spermatozoa via spermatogenesis. Recent findings indicate that RA levels change periodically in adult testes to direct not only meiotic initiation, but also other key developmental transitions to ensure that spermatogenesis is precisely organized for the prodigious output of sperm. This review focuses on how female and male germ cells develop in the ovary and testis, respectively, and the role of RA in this process.
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Yousefi Taemeh S, Mahdavi Shahri N, Lari R, Bahrami AR, Dehghani H. Meiotic initiation in chicken germ cells is regulated by Cyp26b1 and mesonephros. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL ZOOLOGY PART B-MOLECULAR AND DEVELOPMENTAL EVOLUTION 2019; 332:269-278. [PMID: 31580014 DOI: 10.1002/jez.b.22904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2019] [Revised: 07/22/2019] [Accepted: 09/07/2019] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Our knowledge of mechanisms involved in the meiosis of chicken germ cells is very limited. In mammalian fetal ovaries, the onset of meiosis is dependent on retinoic acid and subsequent upregulation of the Stra8 gene. To clarify the mechanism of meiotic initiation in chicken germ cells, we investigated the role of Cyp26b1, a retinoic acid-degrading enzyme. The Cyp26b1-inhibitor, ketoconazole was used to treat the ex vivo-cultured stage 36 gonads/mesonephroi. Then, the progression of meiosis was studied by histological and immunohistochemical analysis and the level of the transcript for Stra8 was evaluated by a quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction in individual ketoconazole-treated gonads after 6 days in culture. The results revealed that meiosis was induced in both testes and right ovary upon inhibition of Cyp26b1 in the ex vivo-cultured gonads, despite downregulation of Stra8 messenger RNA in the treated gonads. Also, meiosis was observed only when mesonephros was cultured alongside the left ovary. These findings demonstrate that in chicken, Stra8 is not the only factor for the entrance into meiosis, and Cyp26b1 and mesonephros play critical regulatory roles for the sex-specific timing of meiotic initiation in birds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Yousefi Taemeh
- Division of Biotechnology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran.,Department of Biology, Faculty of Basic Sciences, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran.,Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine Research Group, Research Institute of Biotechnology, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Naser Mahdavi Shahri
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Basic Sciences, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Roya Lari
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Basic Sciences, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Ahmad Reza Bahrami
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Basic Sciences, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran.,Industrial Biotechnology Research Group, Research Institute of Biotechnology, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Hesam Dehghani
- Division of Biotechnology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran.,Department of Basic Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran.,Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine Research Group, Research Institute of Biotechnology, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
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Divergent Roles of CYP26B1 and Endogenous Retinoic Acid in Mouse Fetal Gonads. Biomolecules 2019; 9:biom9100536. [PMID: 31561560 PMCID: PMC6843241 DOI: 10.3390/biom9100536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2019] [Revised: 09/17/2019] [Accepted: 09/24/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
In female mammals, germ cells enter meiosis in the fetal ovaries, while in males, meiosis is prevented until postnatal development. Retinoic acid (RA) is considered the main inducer of meiotic entry, as it stimulates Stra8 which is required for the mitotic/meiotic switch. In fetal testes, the RA-degrading enzyme CYP26B1 prevents meiosis initiation. However, the role of endogenous RA in female meiosis entry has never been demonstrated in vivo. In this study, we demonstrate that some effects of RA in mouse fetal gonads are not recapitulated by the invalidation or up-regulation of CYP26B1. In organ culture of fetal testes, RA stimulates testosterone production and inhibits Sertoli cell proliferation. In the ovaries, short-term inhibition of RA-signaling does not decrease Stra8 expression. We develop a gain-of-function model to express CYP26A1 or CYP26B1. Only CYP26B1 fully prevents STRA8 induction in female germ cells, confirming its role as part of the meiotic prevention machinery. CYP26A1, a very potent RA degrading enzyme, does not impair the formation of STRA8-positive cells, but decreases Stra8 transcription. Collectively, our data reveal that CYP26B1 has other activities apart from metabolizing RA in fetal gonads and suggest a role of endogenous RA in amplifying Stra8, rather than being the initial inducer of Stra8. These findings should reactivate the quest to identify meiotic preventing or inducing substances.
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Abnormal Meiosis Initiation in Germ Cell Caused by Aberrant Differentiation of Gonad Somatic Cell. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2019; 2019:8030697. [PMID: 31583044 PMCID: PMC6748189 DOI: 10.1155/2019/8030697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2019] [Revised: 07/27/2019] [Accepted: 08/08/2019] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
The interaction between germ cell and somatic cell plays important roles in germ cell development. However, the exact function of gonad somatic cell in germ cell differentiation is unclear. In the present study, the function of gonad somatic cell in germ cell meiosis was examined by using mouse models with aberrant somatic cell differentiation. In Wt1R394W/R394W mice, the genital ridge is absent due to the apoptosis of coelomic epithelial cells. Interestingly, in both male and female Wt1R394W/R394W germ cells, STRA8 was detected at E12.5 and the scattered SYCP3 foci were observed at E13.5 which was consistent with control females. In Wt1-/flox; Cre-ERTM mice, Wt1 was inactivated by the injection of tamoxifen at E9.5 and the differentiation of Sertoli and granulosa cells was completely blocked. We found that most germ cells were located outside of genital ridge after Wt1 inactivation. STRA8, SYCP3, and γH2AX proteins were detected in germ cells of both male and female Wt1-/flox; Cre-ERTM gonads, whereas no thread-like SYCP3 signal was observed. Our study demonstrates that aberrant development of gonad somatic cells leads to ectopic expression of meiosis-associated genes in germ cells, but meiosis was arrested before prophase I. These results suggest that the proper differentiation of gonad somatic cells is essential for germ cell meiosis.
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