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Keshtmand Z, Eftekhari S, Khodadadi B, Farzollahi B, Khosravimelal S, Shandiz SA, Tavakkoli Yaraki M. Engineering of gelatin scaffold by extracellular matrix of Sertoli cells for embryonic stem cell proliferation. Toxicol In Vitro 2024; 100:105900. [PMID: 39029600 DOI: 10.1016/j.tiv.2024.105900] [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: 03/24/2024] [Revised: 07/05/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/21/2024]
Abstract
Mimicking the microenvironment of seminiferous tubules plays an indispensable role in directing differentiation of stem cells toward germ cells in vitro. In this work, we fabricated electrospun gelatin (EG) mats (i.e., with diameter <500 nm) conditioned with Sertoli cells' extracellular matrix (ECM) to simulate both 3D structures and composition of normal testis tissue. Sertoli cells were isolated from mice testis and represented through immunocytochemistry (ICC) staining for expression of vimentin, a specific marker of Sertoli cells. The morphological characteristics of ECM-coated scaffold were investigated under scanning electron microscope (SEM). The efficient elimination of cells was confirmed by MTT assay. Furthermore, the cyto/biocompatibility of ECM-conditioned EG scaffold was determined for Sertoli cells and embryonic stem cells (ESCs), alone and as in co-culture. According to the results, the designed scaffold provided a mat for cell proliferation with negligible toxicity (almost 100% cell viability). SEM micrographs displayed cells with elongated shape and complete stretching morphology when compared with those cultured on scaffold without ECM. Moreover, an enhanced differentiation of ESCs toward sperm-generating cells was obtained through co-culturing of Sertoli cells and ESCs, where cell viability was found almost 100%. Our findings introduce the ECM-conditioned EG scaffold as a potentially influential engineered substrate for in vitro guidance of stem cells differentiation by mimicking the native microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Keshtmand
- Department of Biology, Central Tehran Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Samane Eftekhari
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Allied Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Behnoosh Khodadadi
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Physics and Chemistry, Alzahra University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Bahare Farzollahi
- Department of Biology, Central Tehran Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sadjad Khosravimelal
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Allied Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Mohammad Tavakkoli Yaraki
- School of Natural Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Macquarie University, NSW 2109, Australia.
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Khanmohammadi N, Malek F, Takzaree N, Malekzadeh M, Khanehzad M, Akanji OD, Rastegar T. Sertoli Cell-Conditioned Medium Induces Differentiation of Bone Marrow-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells to Male Germ-Like Cells in Busulfan-Induced Azoospermic Mouse Model. Reprod Sci 2024; 31:375-392. [PMID: 37737972 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-023-01332-7] [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: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
Non-obstructive azoospermia is a severe form of male infertility, with limited effective treatments. Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) can differentiate to different cell lines; therefore, transplantation of these cells is used for treatment of several diseases. Since these cells require induction factors to differentiate into germ cells, we co-transplanted bone marrow stem cells (BMSCs) with Sertoli cell-conditioned medium (SCCM) into the testis of azoospermic mice. This study was carried out in two sections, in vitro and in vivo. For in vitro study, differentiating factors (c-kit and ID4) were examined after 15 days of co-culture of bone marrow cells with Sertoli cell-conditioned medium, while for in vivo study, the azoospermia model was first created by intraperitoneal administration of a single-dose busulfan (40 mg/kg) followed by single-dose CdCl2 (2 mg/kg) after 4 weeks. Mice were divided into 4 groups including control (azoospermia), BMSC, SCCM, and BMSC + SCCM. Eight weeks after transplantation, samples were assessed for proliferation and differentiation via the expression level of MVH, ID4, SCP3, Tp1, Tp2, and Prm1 differentiation markers. The results showed that BMSC co-cultured with SCCM in vitro differentiated BMSC to germ-like cells. Similarly, in vivo studies revealed a higher level of BMSC differentiation into germ-like cells with significant higher expression of differentiation markers in transplanted groups compared to the control. This study confirmed the role of SCCM as an inductive factor for BMSC differentiation to germ cells both in vivo and in vitro conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nasrin Khanmohammadi
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Malek
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nasrin Takzaree
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehrnoush Malekzadeh
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Maryam Khanehzad
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | | | - Tayebeh Rastegar
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Thumfart KM, Lazzeri S, Manuella F, Mansuy IM. Long-term effects of early postnatal stress on Sertoli cells. Front Genet 2022; 13:1024805. [PMID: 36353105 PMCID: PMC9638847 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.1024805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Sertoli cells are somatic cells in testis essential for spermatogenesis, that support the development, maturation, and differentiation of germ cells. Sertoli cells are metabolically highly active and physiologically regulated by external signals, particularly factors in the blood stream. In disease conditions, circulating pathological signals may affect Sertoli cells and consequentially, alter germ cells and fertility. While the effects of stress on reproductive cells have been well studied, how Sertoli cells respond to stress remains poorly characterized. We used a mouse model of early postnatal stress to assess the effects of stress on Sertoli cells. We developed an improved strategy based on intracellular stainings and obtained enriched preparations of Sertoli cells from exposed males. We show that adult Sertoli cells have impaired electron transport chain (ETC) pathways and that several components of ETC complexes particularly complex I, III, and IV are persistently affected. We identify serum as potential mediator of the effects of stress on Sertoli cells by showing that it can recapitulate ETC alterations in primary cells. These results highlight Sertoli cells as cellular targets of stress in early life that can keep a trace of exposure until adulthood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristina M. Thumfart
- Laboratory of Neuroepigenetics, Neuroscience Center Zürich, Brain Research Institute, Medical Faculty of the University Zürich, and Institute of Neuroscience of the Department of Health Science and Technology, ETH Zürich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Samuel Lazzeri
- Laboratory of Neuroepigenetics, Neuroscience Center Zürich, Brain Research Institute, Medical Faculty of the University Zürich, and Institute of Neuroscience of the Department of Health Science and Technology, ETH Zürich, Zurich, Switzerland
- IFOM, FIRC Institute of Molecular Oncology, Milan, Italy
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesca Manuella
- Laboratory of Neuroepigenetics, Neuroscience Center Zürich, Brain Research Institute, Medical Faculty of the University Zürich, and Institute of Neuroscience of the Department of Health Science and Technology, ETH Zürich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Isabelle M. Mansuy
- Laboratory of Neuroepigenetics, Neuroscience Center Zürich, Brain Research Institute, Medical Faculty of the University Zürich, and Institute of Neuroscience of the Department of Health Science and Technology, ETH Zürich, Zurich, Switzerland
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4
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Bhardwaj A, Sohni A, Lou CH, De Gendt K, Zhang F, Kim E, Subbarayalu P, Chan W, Kerkhofs S, Claessens F, Kimmins S, Rao MK, Meistrich M, Wilkinson MF. Concordant Androgen-Regulated Expression of Divergent Rhox5 Promoters in Sertoli Cells. Endocrinology 2022; 163:6432187. [PMID: 34902009 PMCID: PMC8667857 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqab237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Concordant transcriptional regulation can generate multiple gene products that collaborate to achieve a common goal. Here we report a case of concordant transcriptional regulation that instead drives a single protein to be produced in the same cell type from divergent promoters. This gene product-the RHOX5 homeobox transcription factor-is translated from 2 different mRNAs with different 5' untranslated regions (UTRs) transcribed from alternative promoters. Despite the fact that these 2 promoters-the proximal promoter (Pp) and the distal promoter (Pd)-exhibit different patterns of tissue-specific activity, share no obvious sequence identity, and depend on distinct transcription factors for expression, they exhibit a remarkably similar expression pattern in the testes. In particular, both depend on androgen signaling for expression in the testes, where they are specifically expressed in Sertoli cells and have a similar stage-specific expression pattern during the seminiferous epithelial cycle. We report evidence for 3 mechanisms that collaborate to drive concordant Pp/Pd expression. First, both promoters have an intrinsic ability to respond to androgen receptor and androgen. Second, the Pp acts as an enhancer to promote androgen-dependent transcription from the Pd. Third, Pd transcription is positively autoregulated by the RHOX5 protein, which is first produced developmentally from the Pp. Together, our data support a model in which the Rhox5 homeobox gene evolved multiple mechanisms to activate both of its promoters in Sertoli cells to produce Rhox5 in an androgen-dependent manner during different phases of spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anjana Bhardwaj
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Department of Breast Surgical Oncology, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Abhishek Sohni
- School of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093-0695, USA
| | - Chih-Hong Lou
- School of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093-0695, USA
| | - Karel De Gendt
- School of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093-0695, USA
- KU Leuven, Campus Gasthuisberg, O/N1, BE-3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Fanmao Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Eunah Kim
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Department of Environmental Health and Safety, University of Texas Health Sciences Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Panneerdoss Subbarayalu
- Department of Cell Systems and Anatomy, University of Texas HealthSan Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Waikin Chan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | | | - Frank Claessens
- KU Leuven, Campus Gasthuisberg, O/N1, BE-3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Sarah Kimmins
- Department of Animal Sciences, McGill UniversityMontreal, Quebec H3A 0G4, Canada
| | - Manjeet K Rao
- Department of Cell Systems and Anatomy, University of Texas HealthSan Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Marvin Meistrich
- Department of Experimental Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Miles F Wilkinson
- School of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093-0695, USA
- Institute of Genomic Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
- Correspondence: M. F. Wilkinson, PhD, University of California San Diego, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive # 0695, La Jolla, CA 92093-0695, USA. . Previous Affiliation: Miles F. Wilkinson’s previous affiliation is Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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Binsila B, Selvaraju S, Ranjithkumaran R, Archana SS, Krishnappa B, Ghosh SK, Kumar H, Subbarao RB, Arangasamy A, Bhatta R. Current scenario and challenges ahead in application of spermatogonial stem cell technology in livestock. J Assist Reprod Genet 2021; 38:3155-3173. [PMID: 34661801 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-021-02334-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) are the source for the mature male gamete. SSC technology in humans is mainly focusing on preserving fertility in cancer patients. Whereas in livestock, it is used for mining the factors associated with male fertility. The review discusses the present status of SSC biology, methodologies developed for in vitro culture, and challenges ahead in establishing SSC technology for the propagation of superior germplasm with special reference to livestock. METHOD Published literatures from PubMed and Google Scholar on topics of SSCs isolation, purification, characterization, short and long-term culture of SSCs, stemness maintenance, epigenetic modifications of SSCs, growth factors, and SSC cryopreservation and transplantation were used for the study. RESULT The fine-tuning of SSC isolation and culture conditions with special reference to feeder cells, growth factors, and additives need to be refined for livestock. An insight into the molecular mechanisms involved in maintaining stemness and proliferation of SSCs could facilitate the dissemination of superior germplasm through transplantation and transgenesis. The epigenetic influence on the composition and expression of the biomolecules during in vitro differentiation of cultured cells is essential for sustaining fertility. The development of surrogate males through gene-editing will be historic achievement for the foothold of the SSCs technology. CONCLUSION Detailed studies on the species-specific factors regulating the stemness and differentiation of the SSCs are required for the development of a long-term culture system and in vitro spermatogenesis in livestock. Epigenetic changes in the SSCs during in vitro culture have to be elucidated for the successful application of SSCs for improving the productivity of the animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Balakrishnan Binsila
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, Animal Physiology Division, Indian Council of Agricultural Research-National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology, Bengaluru, 560 030, India.
| | - Sellappan Selvaraju
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, Animal Physiology Division, Indian Council of Agricultural Research-National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology, Bengaluru, 560 030, India
| | - Rajan Ranjithkumaran
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, Animal Physiology Division, Indian Council of Agricultural Research-National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology, Bengaluru, 560 030, India
| | - Santhanahalli Siddalingappa Archana
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, Animal Physiology Division, Indian Council of Agricultural Research-National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology, Bengaluru, 560 030, India
| | - Balaganur Krishnappa
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, Animal Physiology Division, Indian Council of Agricultural Research-National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology, Bengaluru, 560 030, India
| | - Subrata Kumar Ghosh
- Animal Reproduction Division, Indian Council of Agricultural Research-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, 243 122, India
| | - Harendra Kumar
- Animal Reproduction Division, Indian Council of Agricultural Research-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, 243 122, India
| | - Raghavendra B Subbarao
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, Animal Physiology Division, Indian Council of Agricultural Research-National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology, Bengaluru, 560 030, India
| | - Arunachalam Arangasamy
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, Animal Physiology Division, Indian Council of Agricultural Research-National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology, Bengaluru, 560 030, India
| | - Raghavendra Bhatta
- Indian council of Agricultural Research-National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology, Bengaluru, 560 030, India
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The guardians of germ cells; Sertoli-derived exosomes against electromagnetic field-induced oxidative stress in mouse spermatogonial stem cells. Theriogenology 2021; 173:112-122. [PMID: 34371438 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2021.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2021] [Revised: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 08/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Nowadays, prolonged exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMF) has raised public concern about the detrimental potential of EMF on spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) and spermatogenesis. Recent studies introduced the fundamental role of Sertoli cell paracrine signaling in the regulation of SSCs maintenance and differentiation in fertility preservation. Thus we investigated the therapeutic effect of Sertoli-derived exosomes (Sertoli-EXOs) as powerful paracrine mediators in SSCs subjected to EMF and its underlying mechanisms. SSCs and Sertoli cells were isolated from neonate mice testis, and identified by their specific markers. Then SSCs were exposed to 50 Hz EMF with intensity of 2.5 mT (1 h for 5 days) and supplemented with exosomes that were isolated from pre-pubertal Sertoli cells. Sertoli-EXOs were characterized and the uptake was observed by PKH26 labeling. The cell viability, colonization efficiency, reactive oxygen species (ROS) balance, cell cycle arrest and apoptosis induction were then analysed. SSCs were confirmed by immunocytochemistry (Oct4, Plzf) and Sertoli cells were identified through Sox9 and vimentin expression by immunocytochemistry and Real-time PCR (qRT-PCR), respectively. Our results demonstrated the detrimental effect of EMF via ROS accumulation that reduced the expression of catalase antioxidant, cell viability and colonization of SSCs. Also, AO/PI and flow cytometry analysis demonstrated the elevation of apoptosis in SSCs exposed to EMF in comparison with control. qRT-PCR data confirmed the up-regulation of apoptotic gene (Caspase-3) and down-regulation of SSCs specific gene (GFRα1). Consequently, the administration of Sertoli-EXOs exerted ameliorative effect on SSCs and significantly improved these changes through the regulation of oxidative stress. These findings suggest that Sertoli-EXOs have positive impact on SSCs exposed to EMF and can be useful in further investigation of Sertoli-EXOs as a novel therapeutic agent which may recover the deregulated SSCs microenvironment and spermatogenesis after exposure to EMF.
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Rasouli-Gharehsaghal K, Shakeri M, Zhandi M, Amini HR, Yousefi AR, Asadirad M. Improvement of in vitro proliferation of cockerel spermatogonial stem cells using different combinations of growth factors. Br Poult Sci 2020; 61:660-668. [PMID: 32902330 DOI: 10.1080/00071668.2020.1808187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
1. This study examined whether in vitro proliferation and maintenance of cockerel spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) could be improved by adding different combinations of growth factors (GFs), including glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF), basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) or leukaemia inhibitory factor (LIF) into the culture medium. 2. The SSCs were isolated from the testes of immature cockerels. For short-term cultures, a medium supplemented with different combinations of GFs for 7 d in 5 replicates was used. The groups were classified as follows: without GF (control group); with GDNF (G group); with GDNF and bFGF (GF group); and with GDNF, bFGF and LIF (GFL group). The number of colonies and cells per colony, as well as the transcript abundance of STRA8 and OCT4 genes, was determined 7 d after the initial culturing. Immunofluorescence staining of SSEA-1, SSEA-3 and VASA protein markers, besides periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) staining, was carried out. 3. The number of colonies and cells per colony increased in the G, GF and GFL groups, compared to the control group (P < 0.01); however, the highest proliferation and colony formation were observed in the GFL group. The positive immunofluorescence staining of SSEA-1, SSEA-3 and VASA protein markers, as well as PAS staining, confirmed the self-renewal and colonisation of cockerel SSCs. The proliferation results were supported by the increased STRA8 and OCT4 transcript abundance in the treated groups (G, GF and GLF), compared to the control group. The SSC proliferation was associated with the higher transcript abundance of STAR8 and OCT4 genes in the GFL group, compared to the G and GF groups (P < 0.01). 4. The results showed that proliferation and colony-forming capacity of cockerel SSCs were positively improved by GDNF, bFGF and LIF. However, the most significant effect was observed when the medium was supplemented with LIF in combination with GDNF and bFGF.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Rasouli-Gharehsaghal
- Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Tehran , Karaj, Iran
| | - M Shakeri
- Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Tehran , Karaj, Iran
| | - M Zhandi
- Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Tehran , Karaj, Iran
| | - H R Amini
- Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Tehran , Karaj, Iran.,Transgenesis Center of Excellence, Isfahan (Khorasgan) Branch, Islamic Azad University , Isfahan, Iran
| | - A R Yousefi
- Department of Pathology and Experimental Animals, Razi Vaccine and Serum Research Institute, Agricultural Research, Education and Extension Organisation (AREEO) , Karaj, Iran
| | - M Asadirad
- Department of Animal and Poultry Science, College of Aburaihan, University of Tehran , Pakdasht, Tehran, Iran
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Zomer HD, Reddi PP. Characterization of rodent Sertoli cell primary cultures. Mol Reprod Dev 2020; 87:857-870. [PMID: 32743879 PMCID: PMC7685524 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2019] [Accepted: 07/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Sertoli cells play a vital role in spermatogenesis by offering physical and nutritional support to the differentiating male germ cells. They form the blood-testis barrier and secrete growth factors essential for germ cell differentiation. Sertoli cell primary cultures are critical for understanding the regulation of spermatogenesis; however, obtaining pure cultures has been a challenge. Rodent Sertoli cell isolation protocols do not rule out contamination by the interstitial or connective tissue cells. Sertoli cell-specific markers could be helpful, but there is no consensus. Vimentin, the most commonly used marker, is not specific for Sertoli cells since its expression has been reported in peritubular myoid cells, mesenchymal stem cells, fibroblasts, macrophages, and endothelial cells, which contaminate Sertoli cell preparations. Markers based on transcription and growth factors also have limitations. Thus, the impediment to obtaining pure Sertoli cell cultures pertains to both the method of isolation and marker usage. The aim of this review is to discuss improvements to current methods of rodent Sertoli cell primary cultures, assess the properties of prepubertal versus mature Sertoli cell cultures, and propose steps to improve cellular characterization. Potential benefits of using contemporary approaches, including lineage tracing, specific cell ablation, and RNA-seq for obtaining Sertoli-specific transcript markers are discussed. Evaluating the specificity and applicability of these markers at the protein level to characterize Sertoli cells in culture would be critical. This review is expected to positively impact future work using primary cultures of rodent Sertoli cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helena D Zomer
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois Urbana Champaign, Urbana, Illinois
| | - Prabhakara P Reddi
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois Urbana Champaign, Urbana, Illinois
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Qin L, Lin J, Xie X. CircRNA-9119 suppresses poly I:C induced inflammation in Leydig and Sertoli cells via TLR3 and RIG-I signal pathways. Mol Med 2019; 25:28. [PMID: 31195953 PMCID: PMC6567632 DOI: 10.1186/s10020-019-0094-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2019] [Accepted: 05/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Circular RNAs (circRNAs) contribute to the epigenetic modulation of pathological and physiological conditions. The understanding of the impact of circRNAs on generation of testicular inflammatory reactions is insufficient. Methods Our research adopted a poly I:C-triggered testicular inflammation murine model and cell assays. Results Microarray data and quantitative evaluation revealed the elevation in the concentrations of Toll-like receptor 3 (TLR3), circRNA-9119, and retinoic acid inducible gene-I (RIG-I) and repression in the levels of miR-136 and miR-26a. Inhibition of circRNA-9119 expression impaired the inflammatory reactions in the separated Leydig and Sertoli cells subjected to poly I:C treatment. CircRNA-9119 suppressed the expression of miR-136 and miR-26a by acting as a microRNA sponge. miR-136 and miR-26a repressed the expression of RIG-I and TLR3 through the expected target region in Leydig and Sertoli cells in vitro. Inhibition of miR-136 and miR-26a expression, at least in part, restored the expression of inflammatory cytokines, which were inhibited upon circRNA-9119 expression silencing. Furthermore, the expression of circRNA-9119 was positively associated with RIG-I and TLR3 mRNA and protein levels. The expression of inflammatory genes triggered by poly I:C treatment was noticeably suppressed after RIG-I and TLR3 knockout. Conclusions Our results suggest that circRNA-9119 may serve as a competing endogenous RNA that insulated miR-136 and miR-26a and consequently defended RIG-I and TLR3 mRNAs against miR-26a/miR-136-mediated inhibition of testicular cells. Moreover, RIG-I and TLR3 contributed to the modulation of poly I:C-triggered inflammatory cytokine generation during orchitis in testicular cells. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s10020-019-0094-1) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Le Qin
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Zhejiang, Wenzhou, China
| | - Jie Lin
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Zhejiang, Wenzhou, China
| | - Xiaoxiao Xie
- Department of Radiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, No. 109, West College Road, Lucheng District, Wenzhou, 325027, Zhejiang, China.
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Mohammadzadeh E, Mirzapour T, Nowroozi MR, Nazarian H, Piryaei A, Alipour F, Modarres Mousavi SM, Ghaffari Novin M. Differentiation of spermatogonial stem cells by soft agar three-dimensional culture system. ARTIFICIAL CELLS NANOMEDICINE AND BIOTECHNOLOGY 2019; 47:1772-1781. [DOI: 10.1080/21691401.2019.1575230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Elham Mohammadzadeh
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Shefa Neuroscience Research Center, Khatam Alanbia Hospital, Tehran, Iran
| | - Tooba Mirzapour
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Guilan, Guilan, Iran
| | | | - Hamid Nazarian
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Abbas Piryaei
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Urogenital Stem Cell Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Alipour
- Shefa Neuroscience Research Center, Khatam Alanbia Hospital, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Marefat Ghaffari Novin
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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11
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Parekh PA, Garcia TX, Waheeb R, Jain V, Gandhi P, Meistrich ML, Shetty G, Hofmann MC. Undifferentiated spermatogonia regulate Cyp26b1 expression through NOTCH signaling and drive germ cell differentiation. FASEB J 2019; 33:8423-8435. [PMID: 30991836 DOI: 10.1096/fj.201802361r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Cytochrome P450 family 26 subfamily B member 1 (CYP26B1) regulates the concentration of all-trans retinoic acid (RA) and plays a key role in germ cell differentiation by controlling local distribution of RA. The mechanisms regulating Cyp26b1 expression in postnatal Sertoli cells, the main components of the stem cell niche, are so far unknown. During gonad development, expression of Cyp26b1 is maintained by Steroidogenic Factor 1 (SF-1) and Sex-Determining Region Y Box-9 (SOX9), which ensure that RA is degraded and germ cell differentiation is blocked. Here, we show that the NOTCH target Hairy/Enhancer-of-Split Related with YRPW Motif 1 (HEY1), a transcriptional repressor, regulates germ cell differentiation via direct binding to the Cyp26b1 promoter and thus inhibits its expression in Sertoli cells. Further, using in vivo germ cell ablation, we demonstrate that undifferentiated type A spermatogonia are the cells that activate NOTCH signaling in Sertoli cells through their expression of the NOTCH ligand JAGGED-1 (JAG1) at stage VIII of the seminiferous epithelium cycle, therefore mediating germ cell differentiation by a ligand concentration-dependent process. These data therefore provide more insights into the mechanisms of germ cell differentiation after birth and potentially explain the spatiotemporal RA pulses driving the transition between undifferentiated to differentiating spermatogonia.-Parekh, P. A., Garcia, T. X., Waheeb, R., Jain, V., Gandhi, P., Meistrich, M. L., Shetty, G., Hofmann, M.-C. Undifferentiated spermatogonia regulate Cyp26b1 expression through NOTCH signaling and drive germ cell differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parag A Parekh
- Department of Endocrine Neoplasia and Hormonal Disorders, University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Thomas X Garcia
- Department of Endocrine Neoplasia and Hormonal Disorders, University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA.,Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA.,Department of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Houston-Clear Lake, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Reham Waheeb
- Department of Endocrine Neoplasia and Hormonal Disorders, University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA.,Department of Theriogenology, University of Alexandria, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Vivek Jain
- Department of Endocrine Neoplasia and Hormonal Disorders, University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA.,Department of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Houston-Clear Lake, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Pooja Gandhi
- Department of Endocrine Neoplasia and Hormonal Disorders, University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Marvin L Meistrich
- Department of Experimental Radiation Oncology, University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Gunapala Shetty
- Department of Experimental Radiation Oncology, University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Marie-Claude Hofmann
- Department of Endocrine Neoplasia and Hormonal Disorders, University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
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Binsila KB, Selvaraju S, Ghosh SK, Parthipan S, Archana SS, Arangasamy A, Prasad JK, Bhatta R, Ravindra JP. Isolation and enrichment of putative spermatogonial stem cells from ram (Ovis aries) testis. Anim Reprod Sci 2018; 196:9-18. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2018.04.070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2017] [Revised: 04/01/2018] [Accepted: 04/13/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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13
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Embryonic stem cell derived germ cells induce spermatogenesis after transplantation into the testes of an adult mouse azoospermia model. Clin Sci (Lond) 2017; 131:2381-2395. [DOI: 10.1042/cs20171074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2017] [Revised: 07/12/2017] [Accepted: 08/02/2017] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
The present study aimed to: (i) identify the exogenous factors that allow in vitro differentiation of mouse spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) from embryonic stem cells (ESCs); (ii) evaluate the effects of Sertoli cells in SSC enrichment; and (iii) assess the success of transplantation using in vitro differentiated SSCs in a mouse busulfan-treated azoospermia model. A 1-day-old embryoid body (EB) received 5 ng/ml of bone morphogenetic protein 4 (BMP4) for 4 days, 3 µM retinoic acid (RA) in a SIM mouse embryo-derived thioguanine and ouabain resistant (STO) co-culture system for 7 days, and was subsequently co-cultured for 2 days with Sertoli cells in the presence or absence of a leukaemia inhibitory factor (LIF), basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) and RA composition, and in the presence of these factors in simple culture medium. Higher viability, proliferation and germ cell gene expression were seen in the presence of the LIF, bFGF and RA composition, on top of Sertoli cells. Immunocytochemistry results showed higher CDH1 expression in this group. Sertoli co-culture had no effects on SSC proliferation. Eight weeks after transplantation, injected cells were observed at the base of the seminiferous tubules and in the recipient testes. The number of spermatogonia and the mass of the testes were higher in transplanted testes relative to the control group. It seems that transplantation of these cells can be useful in infertility treatment.
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14
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Lakpour MR, Koruji M, Shahverdi A, Aghajanpour S, Rajabian Naghandar M, Sadighi Gilani MA, Sabbaghian M, Aflatoonian R. The Expression of TLR2 and TLR3 in Sertoli Cells of Azoospermic Patients. CELL JOURNAL 2017; 19:375-385. [PMID: 28836400 PMCID: PMC5570403 DOI: 10.22074/cellj.2017.4300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2016] [Accepted: 08/06/2016] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Objective Toll-like receptors (TLRs) on Sertoli cells are thought to have essential roles
in sperm protection. This study was conducted to investigate the expression of TLR2 and
TLR3 in Sertoli cells of men with azoospermia.
Materials and Methods In this experimental study, testicular biopsies were taken
from ten azoospermic men. Following enzymatic dissociation, the samples were
moved to lectin coated petri dishes. After a few passages, all cells were cultivated
and Seroli cells were sorted by flow cytometry. To confirm Sertoli cell purification, alkaline phosphatase activity (ALP) and immunohistochemistry assays were employed.
The expression of TLR2 and TLR3 at the transcript and protein levels was examined
with real-time quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-QPCR)
and western blot, respectively.
Results Isolation, purification and cultivation of human Sertoli cells were performed
successfully. Efficacy of purification of Sertoli cells by fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) sorter was ~97%. The type of cultured cells was confirmed by vimentin and
follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) receptor markers. Furthermore, the existence of anti-
Müllerian hormone in culture was confirmed. RT-PCR showed that both genes were expressed in Sertoli cells. Consistently, proteins of both were also expressed in Sertoli cells.
Moreover, QPCR showed that the relative expression of TLR3 transcripts was significantly
higher than TLR2 in Sertoli cells. Although both genes are expressed in fibroblast cells,
their level of expression was significantly lower than in Sertoli cells.
Conclusion This study confirmed expression of TLR2 and TLR3 in human Sertoli cells.
This may be an indicator of their roles in developing immunity against pathogens as well
as allo- and auto-antigens or viral antigens in seminiferous tubules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Reza Lakpour
- Department of Andrology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Biology, Payam Noor University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Morteza Koruji
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Department of Anatomical Sciences, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Abdolhossein Shahverdi
- Department of Embryology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Samaneh Aghajanpour
- Department of Endocrinology and Female Infertility, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Mohammad Ali Sadighi Gilani
- Department of Andrology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Urology, Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Marjan Sabbaghian
- Department of Andrology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran. Marjan.
| | - Reza Aflatoonian
- Department of Endocrinology and Female Infertility, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran. R.aflatoonian@ gmail.com
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15
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Effects of different Sertoli cell types on the maintenance of adult spermatogonial stem cells in vitro. In Vitro Cell Dev Biol Anim 2017; 53:752-758. [PMID: 28699140 DOI: 10.1007/s11626-017-0172-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2016] [Accepted: 05/31/2017] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Spermatongonial stem cells (SSCs) are unique testis cells that are able to proliferate, differentiate, and transmit genetic information to the next generation. However, the effect of different Sertoli cell types on the expression of specific SSC genes is not yet well understood. In this study, we compare the in vitro effect of adult Sertoli cells, embryonic Sertoli cells, and TM4 (a Sertoli cell line) as feeder layers on the expression of SSC genes. SSCs were isolated from the testis of adult male mice and purified by differential plating. Following enrichment, SSCs were cultivated for 1 and 2 wk in the presence of various feeders. The expression of SSC-specific genes (Mvh, ZBTB, and c-kit) was evaluated by real-time polymerase chain reaction. Our results revealed that expression of the specific SSC genes was significantly higher in the embryonic Sertoli cells after 1 and 2 wk compared to the adult Sertoli cells and the TM4 group. Our finding suggest that co-culturing of SSCs with embryonic Sertoli cells is helpful for in vitro cultivation of SSCs and might improve the self-renewal of these stem cells.
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16
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Mahaldashtian M, Naghdi M, Ghorbanian MT, Makoolati Z, Movahedin M, Mohamadi SM. In vitro effects of date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) pollen on colonization of neonate mouse spermatogonial stem cells. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2016; 186:362-368. [PMID: 27084457 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2016.04.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2015] [Revised: 04/11/2016] [Accepted: 04/11/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) pollen (DPP) is widely used as a folk remedy for male infertility treatment, and has well known medicinal effects. AIM OF THE STUDY This study aimed to determine the in vitro effects of DPP on the efficiency of neonate mouse spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) proliferation. MATERIAL AND METHODS Sertoli and SSCs were isolated from 6 to 10-days-old mouse testes, and their identity was confirmed using immunocytochemistry against cytokeratin for sertoli cells and PLZF, Oct-4 and CDH-1 for SSCs. Isolated testicular cells were cultured in the absence or presence of 0.06, 0.25 and 0.62mg/ml concentrations of DPP aqueous extract for 2 weeks. The number and diameter of SSC colonies were assessed during third, 7th, 9th and 14th day of culture, and the expression of the Mvh, GFRα-1 and Oct-4 was evaluated using quantitative PCR at the end of the culture period. The significance of the data was analyzed using ANOVA and paired samples t-test and Tukey and Bonferroni test as post hoc tests at the level of p≤0.05. RESULTS Pattern assay of colony formation showed that SSCs numbers increased in the present of 0.62mg/ml concentration of DPP extract with higher slop relative to other groups (P <0.05). Colony diameters had no significant difference between groups in 3th, 7th, 9th and 14th days after culture. The Mvh and Oct-4 genes expression had no significant difference between groups, while GFRα1 expression was increased significantly in cells treated with 0.06mg/ml concentration relative to other groups (P<0.05). CONCLUSION It seems that co-culture of SSCs with sertoli sells in the presence of low doses of DPP can increase SSCs proliferation and keep their stemness state, while higher concentrations can differentiate the treated cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Mahaldashtian
- Department of Molecular & Cellular Biology, Faculty of Biology, Damghan University, Semnan, Iran.
| | - Majid Naghdi
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Fasa, Iran.
| | - Mohamad Taghi Ghorbanian
- Department of Molecular & Cellular Biology, Faculty of Biology, Damghan University, Semnan, Iran.
| | - Zohreh Makoolati
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Fasa, Iran.
| | - Mansoureh Movahedin
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyedeh Momeneh Mohamadi
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
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17
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Bhushan S, Aslani F, Zhang Z, Sebastian T, Elsässer HP, Klug J. Isolation of Sertoli Cells and Peritubular Cells from Rat Testes. J Vis Exp 2016:e53389. [PMID: 26890157 DOI: 10.3791/53389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The testis, and in particular the male gamete, challenges the immune system in a unique way because differentiated sperm first appear at the time of puberty - more than ten years after the establishment of systemic immune tolerance. Spermatogenic cells express a number of proteins that may be seen as non-self by the immune system. The testis must then be able to establish tolerance to these neo-antigens on the one hand but still be able to protect itself from infections and tumor development on the other hand. Therefore the testis is one of a few immune privileged sites in the body that tolerate foreign antigens without evoking a detrimental inflammatory immune response. Sertoli cells play a key role for the maintenance of this immune privileged environment of the testis and also prolong survival of cotransplanted cells in a foreign environment. Therefore primary Sertoli cells are an important tool for studying the immune privilege of the testis that cannot be easily replaced by established cell lines or other cellular models. Here we present a detailed and comprehensive protocol for the isolation of Sertoli cells - and peritubular cells if desired - from rat testes within a single day.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sudhanshu Bhushan
- Institut für Anatomie und Zellbiologie, Justus-Liebig-Universität Gießen
| | - Ferial Aslani
- Institut für Anatomie und Zellbiologie, Justus-Liebig-Universität Gießen
| | - Zhengguo Zhang
- Institut für Anatomie und Zellbiologie, Justus-Liebig-Universität Gießen
| | - Tim Sebastian
- Institut für Anatomie und Zellbiologie, Justus-Liebig-Universität Gießen
| | | | - Jörg Klug
- Institut für Anatomie und Zellbiologie, Justus-Liebig-Universität Gießen;
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18
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Zhang X, Li L, Bai Y, Shi R, Wei H, Zhang S. Mouse undifferentiated spermatogonial stem cells cultured as aggregates under simulated microgravity. Andrologia 2015; 46:1013-21. [PMID: 25436272 DOI: 10.1111/and.12189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Dynamic simulated microgravity (SMG) culture systems provide environments that stimulate stem cell proliferation and differentiation. However, the effect of SMG on spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) remains unclear. Here, we used a rotating cell culture system (RCCS) to determine its effect on mouse SSC proliferation and differentiation. SSCs were enriched from mouse pub testis and cocultured with Sertoli cell feeders pre-treated with mitomycin C on fibrin scaffolds in a rotary bioreactor for 14 days. Our results show that mouse SSCs cultured in a rotary bioreactor exhibited enhanced proliferation surpassing those cultured in static conditions, although SSC cultures in SMG underwent a growth lag at initial 3 days. After 14 days, mouse SSCs and feeders grew into cell aggregates with average diameters of 242.63 ± 16.53 μm compared with those in conventional static culture (49.51 ± 15.64 μm). Related detection revealed that proliferating SSCs in SMG remained undifferentiated, maintained clone-forming capacity and were capable of differentiation into round spermatids with flagella. The growth characteristics of mouse SSCs in RCCS suggest that the resulting aggregates are similar to native in vivo cells. Rotary bioreactors that create SMG environments may be an alternative to conventional systems for the clinical application of SSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- X Zhang
- Guangdong Provincial key lab of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, College of Animal Science, South China Agriculture University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
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19
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Starvation is more efficient than the washing technique for purification of rat Sertoli cells. In Vitro Cell Dev Biol Anim 2014; 50:723-30. [PMID: 24789729 DOI: 10.1007/s11626-014-9762-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2014] [Accepted: 04/09/2014] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Sertoli cells (SCs), one of the most important components of seminiferous tubules, are vital for normal spermatogenesis and male fertility. In recent years, numerous in vitro studies have shown the potential and actual activities of SCs. However, pure SCs are necessary for various in vitro studies. In this study, we have evaluated the efficiency of the starvation method for SC purification as compared with the washing method. Seminiferous tubule-derived cells (STDCs) of rats' testes underwent two different techniques for SC purification. In the first group (washing group), the medium was changed every 3-4 d, and cells were washed twice with phosphate-buffered saline that lacked CaC12 and MgSO4 (PBS(-)) before the addition of fresh medium. In the second group (starvation), the medium was changed every 7-8 d. Primary culture (P0), passage 1 (P1), and passage 2 (P2) cells were analyzed for the expression of SC-specific genes, vimentin, Wilm's tumor 1 (WT1), germ cell gene (vasa), Leydig cell marker, 17beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 3 (Hsd17b3), and a marker of peritubular myoid cells, alpha smooth muscle actin (αSma), by reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and real-time RT-PCR. Gene expression analysis showed that P0 cells expressed all tested genes except Hsd17b3. The starvation method caused significant downregulation of vasa and αSma expression in P0, P1, and P2 cells, whereas vimentin and WT1 were upregulated. In contrast, the washing method was less effective than the starvation method for the removal of germ and pretubular myoid cells (p < 0.001). Totally, the results have revealed that although washing is the only common technique for elimination of contaminant cells in SC cultures, starvation has a stronger effect and is a suitable, affordable technique for SC purification. We propose that starvation is an efficient, inexpensive method that can be used for purification of SCs in animal species.
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20
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Herrid M, McFarlane JR. Application of testis germ cell transplantation in breeding systems of food producing species: a review. Anim Biotechnol 2014; 24:293-306. [PMID: 23947666 DOI: 10.1080/10495398.2013.785431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
A major benefit of advanced reproduction technologies (ART) in animal breeding is the ability to produce more progeny per individual parent. This is particularly useful with animals of high genetic merit. Testis germ cell transplantation (TGCT) is emerging as a novel reproductive technology with application in animal breeding systems, including the potential for use as an alternative to artificial insemination (AI), an alternative to transgenesis, part of an approach to reducing generation intervals, or an approach toward development of interspecies hybrids. There is one major difference in TGCT between rodents and some other species associated with immunotolerance in heterologous transplantation. In particular, livestock and aquatic species do not require an immunesuppression procedure to allow donor cell survival in recipient testis. Testicular stem cells from a genetically elite individual transplanted into others can develop and produce a surrogate male-an animal that produces the functional sperm of the original individual. Spermatozoa produced from testis stem cells are the only cells in the body of males that can transmit genetic information to the offspring. The isolation and genetic manipulation of testis stem cells prior to transplantation has been shown to create transgenic animals. However, the current success rate of the transplantation procedure in livestock and aquatic species is low, with a corresponding small proportion of donor spermatozoa in the recipient's semen. The propagation of donor cells in culture and preparation of recipient animals are the two main factors that limit the commercial application of this technique. The current paper reviews and compares recent progress and examines the difficulties of TGCT in both livestock and aquatic species, thereby providing new insights into the application of TGCT in food producing animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muren Herrid
- a Center for Bioactive Discovery in Health and Aging, University of New England , Armidale , Australia
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21
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Udagawa O, Ito C, Ogonuki N, Sato H, Lee S, Tripvanuntakul P, Ichi I, Uchida Y, Nishimura T, Murakami M, Ogura A, Inoue T, Toshimori K, Arai H. Oligo-astheno-teratozoospermia in mice lacking ORP4, a sterol-binding protein in the OSBP-related protein family. Genes Cells 2013; 19:13-27. [PMID: 24245814 DOI: 10.1111/gtc.12105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2013] [Accepted: 09/19/2013] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Oligo-astheno-teratozoospermia (OAT), a condition that includes low sperm number, low sperm motility and abnormal sperm morphology, is the commonest cause of male infertility. Because genetic analysis is frequently impeded by the infertility phenotype, the genetic basis of many of OAT conditions has been hard to verify. Here, we show that deficiency of ORP4, a sterol-binding protein in the oxysterol-binding protein (OSBP)-related protein family, causes male infertility due to severe OAT in mice. In ORP4-deficient mice, spermatogonia proliferation and subsequent meiosis occurred normally, but the morphology of elongating and elongated spermatids was severely distorted, with round-shaped head, curled back head or symplast. Spermatozoa derived from ORP4-deficient mice had little or no motility and no fertilizing ability in vitro. In ORP4-deficient testis, postmeiotic spermatids underwent extensive apoptosis, leading to a severely reduced number of spermatozoa. At the ultrastructural level, nascent acrosomes appeared to normally develop in round spermatids, but acrosomes were detached from the nucleus in elongating spermatids. These results suggest that ORP4 is essential for the postmeiotic differentiation of germ cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Osamu Udagawa
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan
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22
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Zhang H, Liu B, Qiu Y, Fan JF, Yu SJ. Pure cultures and characterization of yak Sertoli cells. Tissue Cell 2013; 45:414-20. [PMID: 23938058 DOI: 10.1016/j.tice.2013.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2013] [Revised: 06/07/2013] [Accepted: 07/10/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
The culture of primary Sertoli cells has become an important resource in the study of their function. However, their use is limited because of contamination of isolated cells with other testicular cells, mainly germ cells. The aim was to establish technique to obtain pure yak Sertoli cells as well as to study the growth kinetics and biological characteristics of Sertoli cells in vitro. Two-step enzyme digestion was used to separate and culture yak Sertoli cells. Cultured using starvation method and the hypotonic treatment were also invented to get pure yak Sertoli cells. Furthermore, the purification of Yak Sertoli cells were identified according to their characteristics, such as bipolar corpuscular around the nucleus and expression of Fasl, in addition to their morphology. The average viability of the Sertoli cells was 97% before freezing and 94.5% after thawing, indicating that cryopreservation in liquid nitrogen had little influence on the viability of Sertoli cells. The growth tendency of yak Sertoli cells was similar to an S-shaped growth curve. Purified yak Sertoli cells frequently exhibited bipolar corpuscula in nucleus after Feulgen staining, and did have a positive reaction of Fasl by the immunocytochemical identification. After recovery chromosomal analysis of Sertoli cells had a normal chromosomal number of 60, comprising 29 pairs of autosomes and one pair of sex chromosomes. Assays for bacteria, fungi and mycoplasmas were negative. In conclusion, yak Sertoli cells have been successfully purified and cultured in vitro, and maintain stable biological characteristics after thawing. Therefore, it will not only preserve the genetic resources of yaks at the cellular level, but also provide valuable materials for transgenic research and feeder layer and nuclear donor cells in yak somatic cell cloning technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hua Zhang
- Academic of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, China.
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23
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Baazm M, Abolhassani F, Abbasi M, Habibi Roudkenar M, Amidi F, Beyer C. An improved protocol for isolation and culturing of mouse spermatogonial stem cells. Cell Reprogram 2013; 15:329-36. [PMID: 23808877 DOI: 10.1089/cell.2013.0008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) represent a unique testicular cell type that has the capacity for proliferating, differentiating, and transmitting genetic information. This particular cell type is a strong focus of stem cell research, with isolation and maintenance of SSCs as an important issue. Therefore, we attempted to optimize SSCs handling and to analyze different media and feeder layers, such as adult and embryonic Sertoli cells. The expression patterns of SSC-specific proteins (α6 and β1 integrins, Stra8, and DAZL) and restoration of spermatogenesis were chosen as parameters to demonstrate the efficacy of the protocol. SSCs were isolated from testes of 3- to 6-day-old mice using a magnetic activated cell-sorting system and Thy-1 antibody. After enrichment, SSCs were cultured for 7 days with different media and feeder layers. Then, SSCs were transplanted to recipient mice. Culturing on adult and embryonic Sertoli cells and in the presence of different growth factors [glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF), GDNF family receptor α1 (GFR-α1), and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) resulted in an undifferentiated SSC phenotype with typical stem cell characteristics observed in vivo. The established co-culture model could help to improve the recovery and quality of stem cell preparation of mammalian testis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Baazm
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran
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24
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Cellular source and mechanisms of high transcriptome complexity in the mammalian testis. Cell Rep 2013; 3:2179-90. [PMID: 23791531 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2013.05.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 410] [Impact Index Per Article: 37.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2012] [Revised: 04/17/2013] [Accepted: 05/21/2013] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Understanding the extent of genomic transcription and its functional relevance is a central goal in genomics research. However, detailed genome-wide investigations of transcriptome complexity in major mammalian organs have been scarce. Here, using extensive RNA-seq data, we show that transcription of the genome is substantially more widespread in the testis than in other organs across representative mammals. Furthermore, we reveal that meiotic spermatocytes and especially postmeiotic round spermatids have remarkably diverse transcriptomes, which explains the high transcriptome complexity of the testis as a whole. The widespread transcriptional activity in spermatocytes and spermatids encompasses protein-coding and long noncoding RNA genes but also poorly conserves intergenic sequences, suggesting that it may not be of immediate functional relevance. Rather, our analyses of genome-wide epigenetic data suggest that this prevalent transcription, which most likely promoted the birth of new genes during evolution, is facilitated by an overall permissive chromatin in these germ cells that results from extensive chromatin remodeling.
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Kala S, Kaushik R, Singh KP, Kadam PH, Singh MK, Manik RS, Singla SK, Palta P, Chauhan MS. In vitro culture and morphological characterization of prepubertal buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) putative spermatogonial stem cell. J Assist Reprod Genet 2012; 29:1335-42. [PMID: 23151879 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-012-9883-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2012] [Accepted: 10/29/2012] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) have the unique ability both to self-renew and to produce progeny that undergo differentiation to spermatozoa. The present study has been carried out to develop a method to purify and enrich the pure populations of spermatogonial stem cell like cells in buffalo. METHODS The spermatogonial cells were isolated from testes of 3-7 month old buffalo calves and disaggregated by double enzymatic digestion. Mixed population of isolated cells were then plated on Datura stramonium agglutinin (DSA) lectin coated dishes for attachment of Sertoli cells. The desired cells were obtained from suspension medium after 18 h of incubation and then loaded on discontinuous density gradient using percoll (20-65 %) and different types of spermatogonia cells were obtained at interface of each layer. These cells were cultured in vitro. RESULTS Spermatogonial cells isolated have spherical outline and two or three eccentrically placed nucleoli, created a colony after proliferation during first week or immediately after passage. After 7-10 days of culture, the resulted developed colonies of spermatogonial cells expressed the spermatogonial specific genes like Plzf and VASA; and other pluripotency related markers viz. alkaline phosphtase, DBA, CD9, CD90, SSEA-1, OCT-4, NANOG and REX-1. CONCLUSION Our results show that the isolated putative spermatogonial stem cells exhibit the expression of pluripotency related and spermatogonial specific genes. This study may help to establish a long term culture system for buffalo spermatogonia.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Kala
- Animal Biotechnology Centre, National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, 132001, India
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Meunier J, Lemoine F, Soumillon M, Liechti A, Weier M, Guschanski K, Hu H, Khaitovich P, Kaessmann H. Birth and expression evolution of mammalian microRNA genes. Genome Res 2012; 23:34-45. [PMID: 23034410 PMCID: PMC3530682 DOI: 10.1101/gr.140269.112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 206] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are major post-transcriptional regulators of gene expression, yet their origins and functional evolution in mammals remain little understood due to the lack of appropriate comparative data. Using RNA sequencing, we have generated extensive and comparable miRNA data for five organs in six species that represent all main mammalian lineages and birds (the evolutionary outgroup) with the aim to unravel the evolution of mammalian miRNAs. Our analyses reveal an overall expansion of miRNA repertoires in mammals, with threefold accelerated birth rates of miRNA families in placentals and marsupials, facilitated by the de novo emergence of miRNAs in host gene introns. Generally, our analyses suggest a high rate of miRNA family turnover in mammals with many newly emerged miRNA families being lost soon after their formation. Selectively preserved mammalian miRNA families gradually evolved higher expression levels, as well as altered mature sequences and target gene repertoires, and were apparently mainly recruited to exert regulatory functions in nervous tissues. However, miRNAs that originated on the X chromosome evolved high expression levels and potentially diverse functions during spermatogenesis, including meiosis, through selectively driven duplication-divergence processes. Overall, our study thus provides detailed insights into the birth and evolution of mammalian miRNA genes and the associated selective forces.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julien Meunier
- Center for Integrative Genomics, University of Lausanne, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland.
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Mirzapour T, Movahedin M, Tengku Ibrahim TA, Haron AW, Nowroozi MR. Evaluation of the effects of cryopreservation on viability, proliferation and colony formation of human spermatogonial stem cells in vitro culture. Andrologia 2012; 45:26-34. [PMID: 22621173 DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0272.2012.01302.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/07/2012] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Proliferation of spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) in vitro system is very important. It can enhance SSCs numbers for success of transplantation and treatment of infertility in cancer patients. In this study, testicular cells that obtained from azoospermia patients (n=8) by enzymatic digestion were cryopreserved at the beginning and after 2 weeks of culture. Then, frozen-thawed SSCs were co-cultured on fresh Sertoli cells (experimental group 1), and frozen-thawed Sertoli cells (experimental group 2) for another 3 weeks. In control group, fresh SSCs were co-cultured on fresh Sertoli cells. Viability rate after enzymatic digestion was 93.4%±5.0. Frozen-thawed testicular cells after 2 weeks of culture had a significantly (P<0.05) higher percentage of living cells compared to frozen-thawed testicular cells at the beginning of culture (59.2±7.05 and 46.3±8.40 respectively). The number of colonies in the experimental group 1 was significantly higher than experimental group 2 (19.6±2.8 and 8.33±1.5, respectively, P<0.05). The diameter of the colonies in the experimental group 1 was significantly higher than control and experimental group 2 (P<0.05) after 3 weeks of culture (269.7±52.1, 204.34±24.1 and 112.52±23.5 μm, respectively). Cryopreservation technique will raise the possibility of banking SSCs for men who have a cancer-related illness and waiting for radiotherapy and/or chemotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Mirzapour
- Department of Biology, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Ardabil, Iran.
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Short-term in-vitro culture of goat enriched spermatogonial stem cells using different serum concentrations. J Assist Reprod Genet 2011; 29:39-46. [PMID: 22160429 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-011-9687-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2011] [Accepted: 11/21/2011] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate the effect of serum supplementing on short-term culture, fate determination and gene expression of goat spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs). METHODS Crude testicular cells were plated over Datura-Stramonium Agglutinin (DSA) for 1 h, and non-adhering cells were cultured in the presence of different serum concentrations (1, 5, 10, and 15%) for 7 days in a highly enriched medium initially developed in mice. Colonies developed in each group were used for the assessment of morphology, immunocytochemistry, and gene expression. RESULTS Brief incubation of testicular cells with DSA resulted in a significant increase in the number of cells that expressed the germ cell marker (VASA). The expression of THY1, a specific marker of undifferentiated spermatogonia, was significantly higher in colonies developed in the presence of 1% rather than 5, 10 and 15% serum. CONCLUSION Goat SSCs could proliferate and maintain in SSC culture media for 1 week at serum concentrations as low as 1%, while higher concentrations had detrimental effects on SSC culture/expansion.
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Nowroozi MR, Ahmadi H, Rafiian S, Mirzapour T, Movahedin M. In vitro colonization of human spermatogonia stem cells: effect of patient's clinical characteristics and testicular histologic findings. Urology 2011; 78:1075-81. [PMID: 21908023 DOI: 10.1016/j.urology.2011.06.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2010] [Revised: 06/05/2011] [Accepted: 06/14/2011] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the effect of the demographic/clinical characteristics of patients and testicular histologic findings on the in vitro colonization of human spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs). In vitro isolation and proliferation of human SSCs has emerged as a suitable method for the enrichment of spermatogonia germ cells. METHODS SSCs were isolated from the testicular biopsies of 47 infertile men with nonobstructive azoospermia and co-cultured with a Sertoli cell monolayer. Age, infertility duration, medical/surgical history, testicular size, and testicular histologic findings were recorded. The patients were divided into 2 groups according to the growth/no growth of human SSC colonies in culture. As the main outcome measure, the number and diameter of germ cell-derived colonies were compared between 2 groups in days 8, 13, and 18 after cultivation with respect to the recorded parameters. RESULTS No difference was found between the 2 groups regarding the demographic/clinical parameters. Maturation arrest at the premeiotic spermatogonia stage was present in a considerably greater proportion in the group with growth of human SSC colonies compared with the group without growth of human SSC colonies (14 [45.1%] of 31 versus 3 [18.7%] of 16; P < .001) on days 8, 13, and 18 after culture. Maturation arrest at premeiotic SSCs was associated with a greater number and larger diameter of germ cell colonies compared with the maturation arrest at primary spermatocyte and secondary spermatocyte/spermatid stages (P < .001). CONCLUSION Infertile men with testicular histologic findings of maturation arrest at the premeiotic spermatogonia stage were seemingly the most appropriate candidates for testicular biopsy and in vitro propagation of human SSCs, regardless of their demographic/clinical characteristics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Reza Nowroozi
- Department of Urology, Imam Khomeini General Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Mirzapour T, Movahedin M, Tengku Ibrahim TA, Koruji M, Haron AW, Nowroozi MR, Rafieian SH. Effects of basic fibroblast growth factor and leukaemia inhibitory factor on proliferation and short-term culture of human spermatogonial stem cells. Andrologia 2011; 44 Suppl 1:41-55. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0272.2010.01135.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
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Mohamadi SM, Movahedin M, Koruji SM, Jafarabadi MA, Makoolati Z. Comparison of colony formation in adult mouse spermatogonial stem cells developed in Sertoli and STO coculture systems. Andrologia 2011; 44 Suppl 1:431-7. [PMID: 21762195 DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0272.2011.01201.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to compare the in vitro effects of coculture with Sertoli and SIM mouse embryo-derived thioguanine- and ouabain-resistant (STO) feeder layer cells on the efficiency of adult mouse spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) colony formation. Sertoli and SSCs were isolated from testes, and their identity was confirmed using immunocytochemistry against Oct4, CDH1, PLZF and C-kit for SSCs and vimentin for Sertoli cells. SSCs were cultured in a simple culture system (control group) and on top of the Sertoli and STO feeder layers for 2 weeks. The number and diameter of colonies were evaluated during third, 7th, 10th and 14th day of culture, and the expression of the Oct-4, α6 and β1 integrins was assessed using quantitative RT-PCR. Significant differences were observed between the three groups, separately for each time (P < 0.05), with higher mean in number and diameter for Sertoli cells (P < 0.05). The results of RT-PCR showed higher gene expression of β1 integrin in Sertoli group, but no significant differences were observed in Oct-4 and α6 integrin gene expression among the three groups. Based the on the optimal effect of Seroli cells on the colony formation of SSCs, it is suggested to use these cells for better colonisation of SSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- S M Mohamadi
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
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Simon L, Ekman GC, Garcia T, Carnes K, Zhang Z, Murphy T, Murphy KM, Hess RA, Cooke PS, Hofmann MC. ETV5 regulates sertoli cell chemokines involved in mouse stem/progenitor spermatogonia maintenance. Stem Cells 2011; 28:1882-92. [PMID: 20799334 PMCID: PMC3109872 DOI: 10.1002/stem.508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Spermatogonial stem cells are the only stem cells in the body that transmit genetic information to offspring. Although growth factors responsible for self-renewal of these cells are known, the factors and mechanisms that attract and physically maintain these cells within their microenvironment are poorly understood. Mice with targeted disruption of Ets variant gene 5 (Etv5) show total loss of stem/progenitor spermatogonia following the first wave of spermatogenesis, resulting in a Sertoli cell-only phenotype and aspermia. Microarray analysis of primary Sertoli cells from Etv5 knockout (Etv5(-/-)) versus wild-type (WT) mice revealed significant decreases in expression of several chemokines. Chemotaxis assays demonstrated that migration of stem/progenitor spermatogonia toward Etv5(-/-) Sertoli cells was significantly decreased compared to migration toward WT Sertoli cells. Interestingly, differentiating spermatogonia, spermatocytes, and round spermatids were not chemoattracted by WT Sertoli cells, whereas stem/progenitor spermatogonia showed a high and significant chemotactic index. Rescue assays using recombinant chemokines indicated that C-C-motif ligand 9 (CCL9) facilitates Sertoli cell chemoattraction of stem/progenitor spermatogonia, which express C-C-receptor type 1 (CCR1). In addition, there is protein-DNA interaction between ETV5 and Ccl9, suggesting that ETV5 might be a direct regulator of Ccl9 expression. Taken together, our data show for the first time that Sertoli cells are chemoattractive for stem/progenitor spermatogonia, and that production of specific chemokines is regulated by ETV5. Therefore, changes in chemokine production and consequent decreases in chemoattraction by Etv5(-/-) Sertoli cells helps to explain stem/progenitor spermatogonia loss in Etv5(-/-) mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liz Simon
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, University of Illinois, Urbana, Illinois 61802, USA
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Mirzapour T, Movahedin M, Tengku Ibr TAB, Wahid Haro A, Makoolati Z, Nowroozi M. Effect of Donor Cells Concentration on Colonization of Human Spermatogonial Stem Cells in Recipient Mouse Testes. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2010. [DOI: 10.3923/jbs.2010.730.738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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34
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Anglin E, Davey R, Herrid M, Hope S, Kurkuri M, Pasic P, Hor M, Fenech M, Thissen H, Voelcker NH. Cell microarrays for the screening of factors that allow the enrichment of bovine testicular cells. Cytometry A 2010; 77:881-9. [DOI: 10.1002/cyto.a.20913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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35
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Ivanov AE, Kumar A, Nilsang S, Aguilar MR, Mikhalovska LI, Savina IN, Nilsson L, Scheblykin IG, Kuzimenkova MV, Galaev IY. Evaluation of boronate-containing polymer brushes and gels as substrates for carbohydrate-mediated adhesion and cultivation of animal cells. Colloids Surf B Biointerfaces 2010; 75:510-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.colsurfb.2009.09.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2009] [Revised: 08/28/2009] [Accepted: 09/22/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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36
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Simon L, Ekman GC, Kostereva N, Zhang Z, Hess RA, Hofmann MC, Cooke PS. Direct transdifferentiation of stem/progenitor spermatogonia into reproductive and nonreproductive tissues of all germ layers. Stem Cells 2009; 27:1666-75. [PMID: 19544441 DOI: 10.1002/stem.93] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Pluripotent stem cells have great clinical potential for tissue regeneration/repair in humans. The use of embryonic stem (ES) cells is ethically controversial, leading to searches for other sources of pluripotent stem cells. Testicular spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) produce the spermatogenic lineage. Under in vitro conditions, SSCs have the ability to give rise to pluripotent ES-like cells. We hypothesized that stem/progenitor spermatogonia could directly transdifferentiate into different tissue types if they were recombined with inductive mesenchymes from fetal/neonatal organs using a tissue separation/recombination methodology and grown in vivo. Green fluorescent protein transgenic mice were used to track cell lineages. Our results indicate that stem/progenitor spermatogonia recombined with the appropriate mesenchyme can directly transdifferentiate in vivo into tissues of all germ layers, including prostatic, uterine, and skin epithelium. In addition, transdifferentiated tissue expressed molecular, histological, and functional markers of the appropriate epithelium. The ability of stem/progenitor spermatogonia to directly generate various epithelia emphasizes their clinical potential, and if adult human SSCs have similar properties, this may have applications in human regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liz Simon
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences,University of Illinois, Urbana, Illinois 61802, USA
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37
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Efficiency of adult mouse spermatogonial stem cell colony formation under several culture conditions. In Vitro Cell Dev Biol Anim 2009; 45:281-9. [DOI: 10.1007/s11626-008-9169-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2008] [Accepted: 12/16/2008] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
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38
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Hou M, Andersson M, Zheng C, Sundblad A, Söder O, Jahnukainen K. Immunomagnetic separation of normal rat testicular cells from Roser’s T-cell leukaemia cells is ineffective. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2009; 32:66-73. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2605.2007.00819.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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39
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Herrid M, Davey RJ, Hutton K, Colditz IG, Hill JR. A comparison of methods for preparing enriched populations of bovine spermatogonia. Reprod Fertil Dev 2009; 21:393-9. [DOI: 10.1071/rd08129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2008] [Accepted: 09/29/2008] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The objective of the present study was to identify an efficient and practical enrichment method for bovine type A spermatogonia. Four different enrichment methods were compared: differential plating on laminin- or Datura stramonium agglutinin (DSA)-coated flasks, percoll-gradient isolation, magnetic-activated cell sorting (MACS) and fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS). The isolated cells were characterised with Dolichos biflorus agglutinin (DBA) lectin staining for type A spermatogonia and vimentin-antibody staining for Sertoli cells. A 2 × 2 factorial design was used to investigate the enrichment efficiency on laminin and DSA. In the laminin-enrichment groups, 2 h incubation in plates coated with 20 μg mL–1 laminin yielded a 3.3-fold increase in DBA-positive cells in the adherent fraction, while overnight incubation in flasks coated with 20 μg mL–1 DSA produced a 3.6-fold increase in the non-adherent fraction. However, the greatest enrichment (5.3-fold) of DBA-positive cells was obtained after 2 h incubation in control flasks (coated with bovine serum albumin). Percoll-gradient centrifugation yielded a 3-fold increase in DBA-positive cells. MACS results showed a 3.5- to 5-fold enrichment while FACS produced a 4-fold increase in DBA-positive cells. It is concluded that differential plating is a better method of recovering large numbers of type A spermatogonia for germ cell transplantation, while MACS or FACS can provide highly enriched viable type A spermatogonia for in vitro culture. Further, the combination of differential plating and other enrichment techniques may increase the purification efficiency of type A spermatogonia.
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Mirza M, Petersen C, Nordqvist K, Sollerbrant K. Coxsackievirus and adenovirus receptor is up-regulated in migratory germ cells during passage of the blood-testis barrier. Endocrinology 2007; 148:5459-69. [PMID: 17690169 DOI: 10.1210/en.2007-0359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
The coxsackievirus and adenovirus receptor (CAR) is a cell adhesion molecule expressed in epithelial tight junctions and other cell-cell contacts. Using indirect immunofluorescence, quantitative RT-PCR, and Western blots, the expression and distribution of CAR in developing and adult testis are examined. CAR is highly expressed in both Sertoli and germ cells during perinatal and postnatal development, followed by a rapid down-regulation of both mRNA and protein levels. Interestingly, we find that CAR is a previously unknown downstream target for FSH because CAR mRNA levels were induced in primary cultures of FSH-stimulated Sertoli cells. In contrast to other epithelia, CAR is not a general component of tight junctions in the seminiferous epithelium, and Sertoli cells in the adult testis do not express CAR. Instead, CAR expression is stage dependent and specifically found in migratory germ cells. RT-PCR also demonstrated the presence of junctional adhesion molecule-like (JAML) in the testis. JAML was previously reported by others to form a functional complex with CAR regulating transepithelial migration of leukocytes. The expression of JAML in the testis suggests that a similar functional complex might be present during germ cell migration across the blood-testis barrier. Finally, an intermediate compartment occupied by CAR-positive, migrating germ cells and flanked by two occludin-containing junctions is identified. Together, these results implicate a function for CAR in testis morphogenesis and in migration of germ cells across the blood-testis barrier during spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Momina Mirza
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Stockholm Branch, Karolinska Institutet, Box 240, SE-17177, Stockholm, Sweden
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Zhao M, Rohozinski J, Sharma M, Ju J, Braun RE, Bishop CE, Meistrich ML. Utp14b: a unique retrogene within a gene that has acquired multiple promoters and a specific function in spermatogenesis. Dev Biol 2007; 304:848-59. [PMID: 17291484 PMCID: PMC1910592 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2007.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2006] [Revised: 12/09/2006] [Accepted: 01/03/2007] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
The mouse retrogene Utp14b is essential for male fertility, and a mutation in its sequence results in the sterile juvenile spermatogonial depletion (jsd) phenotype. It is a retrotransposed copy of the Utp14a gene, which is located on the X chromosome, and is inserted within an intron of the autosomal acyl-CoA synthetase long-chain family member 3 (Acsl3) gene. To elucidate the roles of the Utp14 genes in normal spermatogenic cell development as a basis for understanding the defects that result in the jsd phenotype, we analyzed the various mRNAs produced from the Utp14b retrogene and their expression in different cell types. Two classes of transcripts were identified: variant 1, a transcript driven by the host gene promoter, that is predominantly found in germ cells but is ubiquitously expressed at low levels; and variants 2-5, a group of alternatively spliced transcripts containing some unique untranslated exons that are transcribed from a novel promoter that is germ-cell-specific. Utp14b (predominantly variant 1) is expressed at moderately high levels in pachytene spermatocytes, the developmental stage at which the expression of the X-linked Utp14a is suppressed. The levels of both classes of Utp14b transcripts were highest in round spermatids despite the transcription of Utp14a in these cells. We propose that when Utp14b initially inserted into Acsl3, it utilized the Acsl3 promoter to drive expression in pachytene spermatocytes to compensate for inactivation of Utp14a expression. The novel cell-type-specific promoter for Utp14b likely evolved later, as the protein may have acquired a germ cell-specific function in spermatid development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming Zhao
- Department of Experimental Radiation Oncology, University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Box 066, 1515 Holcombe Blvd, Houston, TX 77030
| | - Jan Rohozinski
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, 1709 Dryden Road, Houston, TX 77030
| | - Manju Sharma
- Department of Genome Sciences, University of Washington School of Medicine, Box 357730, 1705 N.E. Pacific Street, Seattle, WA 98195
| | - Jun Ju
- Department of Experimental Radiation Oncology, University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Box 066, 1515 Holcombe Blvd, Houston, TX 77030
| | - Robert E. Braun
- Department of Genome Sciences, University of Washington School of Medicine, Box 357730, 1705 N.E. Pacific Street, Seattle, WA 98195
| | - Colin E. Bishop
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, 1709 Dryden Road, Houston, TX 77030
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030
| | - Marvin L. Meistrich
- Department of Experimental Radiation Oncology, University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Box 066, 1515 Holcombe Blvd, Houston, TX 77030
- Corresponding author: Fax: +1 713 794 5369. E-mail address: , (M. L. Meistrich)
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Anjamrooz SH, Movahedin M, Tiraihi T, Mowla SJ. In vitro effects of epidermal growth factor, follicle stimulating hormone and testosterone on mouse spermatogonial cell colony formation. Reprod Fertil Dev 2006; 18:709-20. [PMID: 16930518 DOI: 10.1071/rd05126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2005] [Accepted: 04/09/2006] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The complex process of spermatogenesis is regulated by various factors. In the present study, the in vitro effects of epidermal growth factor (EGF), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and testosterone on spermatogonial cell colony formation were investigated, and the best colonising factor was chosen for treating cells before transplantation. Sertoli and spermatogonial cells were isolated from neonatal mouse testes. The identity of the cells was confirmed through analysis of morphology, alkaline phosphatase activity, immunoreactivity and transplantation. Co-cultured Sertoli and spermatogonial cells were treated with EGF, FSH and testosterone before colony assay. Results indicated that EGF is the best factor for in vitro colonisation of spermatogonial cells, but transplantation of the EGF-treated group did not show any significant change compared with the control groups. In conclusion, EGF increased in vitro colonisation of spermatogonial cells, but, as a result of differential effects, did not influence transplantation efficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Hadi Anjamrooz
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modarres University, Tehran, Iran
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Chiarella P, Puglisi R, Sorrentino V, Boitani C, Stefanini M. Ryanodine receptors are expressed and functionally active in mouse spermatogenic cells and their inhibition interferes with spermatogonial differentiation. J Cell Sci 2004; 117:4127-34. [PMID: 15280431 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.01283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Ryanodine receptors (RyRs) are intracellular calcium release channels that are highly expressed in striated muscle and neurons but are also detected in several non-excitable cells. We have studied the expression of the three RyR isoforms in male germ cells at different stages of maturation by western blot and RT-PCR. RyR1 was expressed in spermatogonia, pachytene spermatocytes and round spermatids whereas RyR2 was found only in 5- to 10-day-old testis but not in germ cells. RyR3 was not revealed at the protein level, although its mRNA was detected in mixed populations of germ cells. Caffeine, a known agonist of RyRs, was able to induce release of Ca2+ from intracellular stores in spermatogonia, pachytene spermatocytes and round spermatids, but not spermatozoa. Treatment with high doses of ryanodine, which are known to block RyR channel activity, reduced spermatogonial proliferation and induced meiosis in in vitro organ cultures of testis from 7-day-old mice. In conclusion, the results presented here indicate that RyRs are present in germ cells and that calcium mobilization through RyR channels could participate to the regulation of male germ maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pieranna Chiarella
- Department of Histology and Medical Embryology and Centro di Eccellenza Biologia e Medicina Molecolare, University of Rome La Sapienza, Via A. Scarpa 14, 00161 Roma, Italy
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Kwon J, Wang YL, Setsuie R, Sekiguchi S, Sakurai M, Sato Y, Lee WW, Ishii Y, Kyuwa S, Noda M, Wada K, Yoshikawa Y. Developmental Regulation of Ubiquitin C-Terminal Hydrolase Isozyme Expression During Spermatogenesis in Mice. Biol Reprod 2004; 71:515-21. [PMID: 15084487 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.104.027565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
The ubiquitin pathway functions in the process of protein turnover in eukaryotic cells. This pathway comprises the enzymes that ubiquitinate/deubiquitinate target proteins and the proteasome that degrades ubiquitin-conjugated proteins. Ubiquitin C-terminal hydrolases (UCHs) are thought to be essential for maintaining ubiquitination activity by releasing ubiquitin (Ub) from its substrates. Mammalian UCH-L1 and UCH-L3 are small proteins that share considerable homology at the amino acid level. Both of these UCHs are highly expressed in the testis/ ovary and neuronal cells. Our previous work demonstrated that UCH-L1-deficient gracile axonal dystrophy (gad) mice exhibit progressively decreasing spermatogonial stem cell proliferation, suggesting that UCH isozymes in the testis function during spermatogenesis. To analyze the expression patterns of UCH isozymes during spermatogenesis, we isolated nearly homogeneous populations of spermatogonia, spermatocytes, spermatids, and Sertoli cells from mouse testes. Western blot analysis detected UCH-L1 in spermatogonia and Sertoli cells, whereas UCH-L3 was detected in spermatocytes and spermatids. Moreover, reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction analysis of UCH isozymes showed that UCH-L1 and UCH-L4 mRNAs are expressed in spermatogonia, whereas UCH-L3 and UCH-L5 mRNAs are expressed mainly in spermatocytes and spermatids. These results suggest that UCH-L1 and UCH-L3 have distinct functions during spermatogenesis, namely, that UCH-L1 may act during mitotic proliferation of spermatogonial stem cells whereas UCH-L3 may function in the meiotic differentiation of spermatocytes into spermatids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jungkee Kwon
- Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, University of Tokyo, 1-1-1 Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan
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Petersen C, Fröysa B, Söder O. Endotoxin and proinflammatory cytokines modulate Sertoli cell proliferation in vitro. J Reprod Immunol 2004; 61:13-30. [PMID: 15027475 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2003.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Sertoli cells play a key role in testicular function and their final number in the adult testis determines the capacity of germ cell production. Sertoli cell proliferation, stimulated by FSH and paracrine factors, occurs only in fetal and prepubertal life and may be an important target of pathogenic influences affecting testis development. We used a Sertoli cell proliferation assay to address the question whether if bacterial endotoxin (lipopolysaccharide; LPS) and proinflammatory cytokines could influence early postnatal Sertoli cell development. LPS and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) dose-dependently stimulated proliferation of primary cultures of isolated Sertoli cells from 8- to 9-day-old rats, assessed by (3)H-thymidine and BrdU incorporation. LPS also significantly increased the number of living cells in culture, measured by supravital staining. Interleukin-6 (IL-6) and interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) had no direct effect on Sertoli cell growth, but were found to modulate FSH action. IL-6 increased, while IFN-gamma inhibited, FSH-induced Sertoli cell DNA-synthesis. We conclude that endotoxin and TNF-alpha are potent direct stimulators of Sertoli cell proliferation in vitro, and that IL-6 and IFN-gamma can modulate the mitogenic action of FSH on immature Sertoli cells. This may contribute to the pathogenesis of testicular damage after infections and inflammatory diseases in fetal and early postnatal life, with subsequent disturbance of adult germ cell production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cecilia Petersen
- Department of Women and Child Health, Paediatric Endocrinology Unit, Astrid Lindgren Children's Hospital, Karolinska Institutet and Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.
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Petersen C, Boitani C, Fröysa B, Söder O. Interleukin-1 is a potent growth factor for immature rat sertoli cells. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2002; 186:37-47. [PMID: 11850120 DOI: 10.1016/s0303-7207(01)00680-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Testes from rats of different maturational ages were explored for presence of paracrine sertoli cell growth factors. Pubertal and adult testes contained a 17 kDa protein, with potent stimulatory effect on immature Sertoli cell multiplication in vitro. The bioactivity of this protein was mimicked by rat interleukin-1 (IL-1) and neutralized by IL-1 receptor antagonist. A receptor-mediated action was further supported by the demonstration of IL-1 receptor type I mRNA and protein expression in the cultured sertoli cells and in intact immature rat testes. IL-1alpha showed higher efficacy in stimulating proliferation than IL-1beta and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and displayed synergistic action in combination with FSH. As IL-1alpha is constitutively produced by the rat testis and IL-1beta readily inducible by proinflammatory stimuli, our results suggest that IL-1 may serve as a growth factor for Sertoli cells under physiological and pathophysiological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Petersen
- Department of Woman and Child Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
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Slongo ML, Zampieri M, Onisto M. Expression of matrix metalloproteases (MMP-2, MT1 -MMP) and their tissue inhibitor (TIMP-2) by rat sertoli cells in culture: implications for spermatogenesis. Biol Chem 2002; 383:235-9. [PMID: 11928819 DOI: 10.1515/bc.2002.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
During testicular development and maturation, extracellular matrix (ECM) remodelling is a fundamental process which requires the presence of several proteases and protease inhibitors. Among the proteases, a pivotal role has been proposed for matrix metalloproteases (MMPs) and their tissue inhibitors (TIMPs). Here we report an analysis of MMP-2, MT1-MMP and TIMP-2 expression by rat Sertoli cells in culture using RT-PCR and zymographic techniques. Stimulating Sertoli cells with follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) in vitro induced evident changes in the level of their mRNA in a time-dependent manner. In the case of TIMP-2 and MT1-MMP, the respective transcripts were augmented up to three-fold after 24 h of treatment, and MMP-2 transcripts increased by four times in the same period. MMP-2 activity determined by gelatin zymography showed an increase in enzyme secretion after FSH stimulation. The results of this study suggest that: (i) at the surface of Sertoli cells pro-MMP-2 activation mediated by MT1-MMP may occur, involving TIMP-2 as a receptor; and (ii) the expression of these molecules is not constitutive in this cell type, but may be modulated by FSH and is therefore implicated in spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Liliana Slongo
- Department of Experimental Biomedical Sciences, University of Padua, Italy
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48
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Petersen C, Boitani C, Fröysa B, Söder O. Transforming growth factor-alpha stimulates proliferation of rat Sertoli cells. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2001; 181:221-7. [PMID: 11476955 DOI: 10.1016/s0303-7207(01)00485-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
The number of Sertoli cells is positively correlated with the number of germ cells produced in the testis, but the regulation of Sertoli cell proliferation and final density is poorly understood. Using non-aggregated Sertoli cells from 8 to 9-day-old rat testes, highly enriched by lectin binding, we explored effects of Sertoli cell growth factor candidates in vitro. Proliferation was assessed by 3H-thymidine incorporation, bromodeoxyuridine labeling and supravital staining, and FSH was used as positive control. Transforming growth factor-alpha (TGF-alpha) was found to stimulate Sertoli cell proliferation in a dose-dependent manner. Epidermal growth factor (EGF) and betacellulin mimicked the effect, demonstrating specificity of the response as they share receptors with TGF-alpha. Insulin-like growth factor I and II, acidic and basic fibroblast growth factor and stem cell factor lacked significant stimulatory effects. We conclude that EGF/TGF-alpha is a growth factor for Sertoli cells in vitro, possibly contributing to paracrine regulation of Sertoli cell proliferation in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Petersen
- Department of Woman and Child Health, Karolinska Institute and Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.
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Onisto M, Slongo LM, Graziotto R, Zotti L, Negro A, Merico M, Moro E, Foresta C, Maurizio O, Liliana SM, Romina G, Lorenza Z, Alessandro N, Maurizio M, Enrico M, Carlo F. Evidence for FSH-dependent upregulation of SPATA2 (spermatogenesis-associated protein 2). Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2001; 283:86-92. [PMID: 11322771 DOI: 10.1006/bbrc.2001.4754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Here we report the cloning and characterization of a novel cDNA named spata 2. SPATA2 is the ortholog of PD1, a human testicular protein which has been suggested to play a role in spermatogenesis. The spata 2 sequence reveals an open reading frame encoding a protein of 511 amino acids. Northern blot analysis with rat mRNA demonstrated two distinct transcripts of 2.2 and 4.0 kb. Tagging recombinant SPATA2 with the green fluorescent protein (GFP) and expressing the chimeric polypeptide in HLtat transfected cells indicated that SPATA2 is located in the nucleus. RT-PCR analysis revealed that spata 2 mRNA is expressed in the testis and to a lesser extent in the brain while skeletal muscle and kidney showed a barely visible signal. The same analysis demonstrated that isolated Sertoli cells express spata 2 mRNA. Treating Sertoli cells with FSH in vitro induced remarkable changes in the steady-state level of spata 2 mRNA in a time-dependent manner. In developing testis spata 2 transcripts were first detected 10 days post partum and expression levels increased steadily with age. The ability of FSH to stimulate spata 2 mRNA expression as well as its developmental expression suggests that this protein might play a role in regulating spermatogenesis and thus, according to the Gene Nomenclature Committee, we propose the name SPATA2 (Spermatogenesis associated protein 2) for this protein (or gene).
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Affiliation(s)
- M Onisto
- Department of Experimental Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, Padua, 35121, Italy.
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