1
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Kim S, Yamada S, Li T, Canasto-Chibuque C, Kim JH, Marcet-Ortega M, Xu J, Eng DY, Feeney L, Petrini JHJ, Keeney S. The MRE11-RAD50-NBS1 complex both starts and extends DNA end resection in mouse meiosis. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.08.17.608390. [PMID: 39185212 PMCID: PMC11343206 DOI: 10.1101/2024.08.17.608390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/27/2024]
Abstract
Nucleolytic resection of DNA ends is critical for homologous recombination, but its mechanism is not fully understood, particularly in mammalian meiosis. Here we examine roles of the conserved MRN complex (MRE11, RAD50, and NBS1) through genome-wide analysis of meiotic resection in mice with various MRN mutations, including several that cause chromosomal instability in humans. Meiotic DSBs form at elevated levels but remain unresected if Mre11 is conditionally deleted, thus MRN is required for both resection initiation and regulation of DSB numbers. Resection lengths are reduced to varying degrees in MRN hypomorphs or if MRE11 nuclease activity is attenuated in a conditional nuclease-dead Mre11 model. These findings unexpectedly establish that MRN is needed for longer-range extension of resection, not just resection initiation. Finally, resection defects are additively worsened by combining MRN and Exo1 mutations, and mice that are unable to initiate resection or have greatly curtailed resection lengths experience catastrophic spermatogenic failure. Our results elucidate multiple functions of MRN in meiotic recombination, uncover unanticipated relationships between short- and long-range resection, and establish the importance of resection for mammalian meiosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soonjoung Kim
- Molecular Biology Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York 10065, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Institute for Immunology and Immunological Diseases, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Korea
| | - Shintaro Yamada
- Molecular Biology Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York 10065, USA
- The HAKUBI Center for Advanced Research, and Department of Aging Science and Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Tao Li
- Molecular Biology Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York 10065, USA
| | - Claudia Canasto-Chibuque
- Molecular Biology Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York 10065, USA
| | - Jun Hyun Kim
- Molecular Biology Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York 10065, USA
| | - Marina Marcet-Ortega
- Molecular Biology Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York 10065, USA
| | - Jiaqi Xu
- Molecular Biology Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York 10065, USA
- Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences
| | - Diana Y Eng
- Molecular Biology Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York 10065, USA
| | - Laura Feeney
- Molecular Biology Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York 10065, USA
| | - John H J Petrini
- Molecular Biology Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York 10065, USA
- Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences
| | - Scott Keeney
- Molecular Biology Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York 10065, USA
- Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York 10065, USA
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2
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Pamula MC, Lehmann R. How germ granules promote germ cell fate. Nat Rev Genet 2024:10.1038/s41576-024-00744-8. [PMID: 38890558 DOI: 10.1038/s41576-024-00744-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
Germ cells are the only cells in the body capable of giving rise to a new organism, and this totipotency hinges on their ability to assemble membraneless germ granules. These specialized RNA and protein complexes are hallmarks of germ cells throughout their life cycle: as embryonic germ granules in late oocytes and zygotes, Balbiani bodies in immature oocytes, and nuage in maturing gametes. Decades of developmental, genetic and biochemical studies have identified protein and RNA constituents unique to germ granules and have implicated these in germ cell identity, genome integrity and gamete differentiation. Now, emerging research is defining germ granules as biomolecular condensates that achieve high molecular concentrations by phase separation, and it is assigning distinct roles to germ granules during different stages of germline development. This organization of the germ cell cytoplasm into cellular subcompartments seems to be critical not only for the flawless continuity through the germline life cycle within the developing organism but also for the success of the next generation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ruth Lehmann
- Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, MA, USA.
- Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA.
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3
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Tang Z, Liang Z, Zhang B, Xu X, Li P, Li L, Lu LY, Liu Y. MRE11 is essential for the long-term viability of undifferentiated spermatogonia. Cell Prolif 2024:e13685. [PMID: 38894566 DOI: 10.1111/cpr.13685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2023] [Revised: 05/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
In the meiotic prophase, programmed SPO11-linked DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) are repaired by homologous recombination (HR). The MRE11-RAD50-NBS1 (MRN) complex is essential for initiating DNA end resection, the first step of HR. However, residual DNA end resection still occurs in Nbs1 knockout (KO) spermatocytes for unknown reasons. Here, we show that DNA end resection is completely abolished in Mre11 KO spermatocytes. In addition, Mre11 KO, but not Nbs1 KO, undifferentiated spermatogonia are rapidly exhausted due to DSB accumulation, proliferation defects, and elevated apoptosis. Cellular studies reveal that a small amount of MRE11 retained in the nucleus of Nbs1 KO cells likely underlies the differences between Mre11 and Nbs1 KO cells. Taken together, our study not only demonstrates an irreplaceable role of the MRE11 in DNA end resection at SPO11-linked DSBs but also unveils a unique function of MRE11 in maintaining the long-term viability of undifferentiated spermatogonia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenghui Tang
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Ministry of Education), Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhongyang Liang
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Ministry of Education), Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Bin Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Ministry of Education), Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiaohui Xu
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Diagnosis and Therapy for Major Gynecological Diseases, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Peng Li
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Ministry of Education), Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Maternal and Infant Health, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lejun Li
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Ministry of Education), Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Maternal and Infant Health, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lin-Yu Lu
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Ministry of Education), Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Zhejiang University Cancer Center, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yidan Liu
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Ministry of Education), Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Diagnosis and Therapy for Major Gynecological Diseases, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
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4
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Katayama K, Ito J, Murakami R, Yamashita A, Sasajima H, Narahashi S, Chiba J, Yamamoto I, Fujii W, Tochigi Y, Suzuki H. Mutation of the Thap4 gene causes dwarfism and testicular anomalies in rats and mice. Mamm Genome 2024; 35:149-159. [PMID: 38658415 DOI: 10.1007/s00335-024-10041-8] [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: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
The petit (pet) locus is associated with dwarfism, testicular anomalies, severe thymic hypoplasia, and high postnatal lethality, which are inherited in autosomal recessive mode of inheritance in rats with a Wistar strain genetic background. Linkage analysis localized the pet locus between 98.7 Mb and 101.2 Mb on rat chromosome 9. Nucleotide sequence analysis identified 2 bp deletion in exon 2 of the Thap4 gene as the causative mutation for pet. This deletion causes a frameshift and premature termination codon, resulting in a truncated THAP4 protein lacking approximately two-thirds of the C-terminal side. Thap4 is expressed in various organs, including the testis and thymus in rats. To elucidate the biological function of THAP4 in other species, we generated Thap4 knockout mice lacking exon 2 of the Thap4 gene through genome editing. Thap4 knockout mice also exhibited dwarfism and small testis but did not show high postnatal lethality. Thymus weights of adult Thap4 knockout male mice were significantly higher compared to wild-type male mice. Although Thap4 knockout male mice were fertile, their testis contained seminiferous tubules with spermatogenesis and degenerative seminiferous tubules lacking germ cells. Additionally, we observed vacuoles in seminiferous tubules, and clusters of cells in the lumen in seminiferous tubules in Thap4 knockout male mice. These results demonstrate that spontaneous mutation of Thap4 gene in rats and knockout of Thap4 gene in mice both cause dwarfism and testicular anomalies. Thap4 gene in rats and mice is essential for normal testicular development, maintaining spermatogenesis throughout the entire region of seminiferous tubules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kentaro Katayama
- Laboratory of Veterinary Physiology, Nippon Veterinary and Life Science University, 1-7-1 Kyonan-cho, Musashino-shi, Tokyo, 180-8602, Japan
| | - Junya Ito
- Laboratory of Veterinary Physiology, Nippon Veterinary and Life Science University, 1-7-1 Kyonan-cho, Musashino-shi, Tokyo, 180-8602, Japan
| | - Rei Murakami
- Laboratory of Veterinary Physiology, Nippon Veterinary and Life Science University, 1-7-1 Kyonan-cho, Musashino-shi, Tokyo, 180-8602, Japan
| | - Ayako Yamashita
- Laboratory of Veterinary Physiology, Nippon Veterinary and Life Science University, 1-7-1 Kyonan-cho, Musashino-shi, Tokyo, 180-8602, Japan
| | - Hotaka Sasajima
- Laboratory of Veterinary Physiology, Nippon Veterinary and Life Science University, 1-7-1 Kyonan-cho, Musashino-shi, Tokyo, 180-8602, Japan
| | - Satomi Narahashi
- Laboratory of Veterinary Physiology, Nippon Veterinary and Life Science University, 1-7-1 Kyonan-cho, Musashino-shi, Tokyo, 180-8602, Japan
| | - Junko Chiba
- Laboratory of Veterinary Physiology, Nippon Veterinary and Life Science University, 1-7-1 Kyonan-cho, Musashino-shi, Tokyo, 180-8602, Japan
| | - Ichiro Yamamoto
- Laboratory of Veterinary Biochemistry, Nippon Veterinary and Life Science University, 1-7-1 Kyonan-cho, Musashino-shi, Tokyo, 180-8602, Japan
| | - Wataru Fujii
- Laboratory of Biomedical Science, Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, 1-1-1 Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8657, Japan
| | - Yuki Tochigi
- Laboratory of Veterinary Physiology, Nippon Veterinary and Life Science University, 1-7-1 Kyonan-cho, Musashino-shi, Tokyo, 180-8602, Japan
| | - Hiroetsu Suzuki
- Laboratory of Veterinary Physiology, Nippon Veterinary and Life Science University, 1-7-1 Kyonan-cho, Musashino-shi, Tokyo, 180-8602, Japan.
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5
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Dai P, Ma C, Chen C, Liang M, Dong S, Chen H, Zhang X. Unlocking Genetic Mysteries during the Epic Sperm Journey toward Fertilization: Further Expanding Cre Mouse Lines. Biomolecules 2024; 14:529. [PMID: 38785936 PMCID: PMC11117649 DOI: 10.3390/biom14050529] [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: 03/22/2024] [Revised: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The spatiotemporal expression patterns of genes are crucial for maintaining normal physiological functions in animals. Conditional gene knockout using the cyclization recombination enzyme (Cre)/locus of crossover of P1 (Cre/LoxP) strategy has been extensively employed for functional assays at specific tissue or developmental stages. This approach aids in uncovering the associations between phenotypes and gene regulation while minimizing interference among distinct tissues. Various Cre-engineered mouse models have been utilized in the male reproductive system, including Dppa3-MERCre for primordial germ cells, Ddx4-Cre and Stra8-Cre for spermatogonia, Prm1-Cre and Acrv1-iCre for haploid spermatids, Cyp17a1-iCre for the Leydig cell, Sox9-Cre for the Sertoli cell, and Lcn5/8/9-Cre for differentiated segments of the epididymis. Notably, the specificity and functioning stage of Cre recombinases vary, and the efficiency of recombination driven by Cre depends on endogenous promoters with different sequences as well as the constructed Cre vectors, even when controlled by an identical promoter. Cre mouse models generated via traditional recombination or CRISPR/Cas9 also exhibit distinct knockout properties. This review focuses on Cre-engineered mouse models applied to the male reproductive system, including Cre-targeting strategies, mouse model screening, and practical challenges encountered, particularly with novel mouse strains over the past decade. It aims to provide valuable references for studies conducted on the male reproductive system.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Xiaoning Zhang
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China; (P.D.); (C.M.); (C.C.); (M.L.); (S.D.); (H.C.)
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6
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Cassani M, Seydoux G. P-body-like condensates in the germline. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2024; 157:24-32. [PMID: 37407370 PMCID: PMC10761593 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2023.06.010] [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: 05/08/2023] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023]
Abstract
P-bodies are cytoplasmic condensates that accumulate low-translation mRNAs for temporary storage before translation or degradation. P-bodies have been best characterized in yeast and mammalian tissue culture cells. We describe here related condensates in the germline of animal models. Germline P-bodies have been reported at all stages of germline development from primordial germ cells to gametes. The activity of the universal germ cell fate regulator, Nanos, is linked to the mRNA decay function of P-bodies, and spatially-regulated condensation of P-body like condensates in embryos is required to localize mRNA regulators to primordial germ cells. In most cases, however, it is not known whether P-bodies represent functional compartments or non-functional condensation by-products that arise when ribonucleoprotein complexes saturate the cytoplasm. We speculate that the ubiquity of P-body-like condensates in germ cells reflects the strong reliance of the germline on cytoplasmic, rather than nuclear, mechanisms of gene regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madeline Cassani
- HHMI and Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Geraldine Seydoux
- HHMI and Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.
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7
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Li C, Li Y, Qin C, Yu C, Hu J, Guo C, Wang Y. Determination of the timing of early gonadal differentiation in silver pomfret, Pampus argenteus. Anim Reprod Sci 2024; 261:107373. [PMID: 38211439 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2023.107373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024]
Abstract
Silver pomfret is a species of global significance due to its high nutritional in fisheries sector. To accurately ascertain the timing of sex differentiation mechanism and mRNA level in this species, this study examined gonad morphology and patterns of gene expression related to sex differentiation in males and females from 51 to 180 days post hatch (dph), the temperature of water was maintained at 26 ± 1 ℃. Distinct morphological differentiation of the silver pomfret ovaries, marked by the emergence of primary oocytes, became apparent from 68 dph. By 108 dph, the testes began to differentiate, as evidenced by the appearance of the efferent duct. Early oocytes exhibited a diameter ranged from 0.077 mm to 0.682 mm, with an average diameter of 0.343 ± 0.051 mm. The proportions of various types of germ cells within the testes were subjected to analysis. The localization of Vasa during the early stages of sexual differentiation was a subject to analysis as well. Vasa was predominantly localized within the cytoplasm of gonocyte, peri-nucleolus stage oocytes, primary oocytes and type A spermatogonocytes, indicating that Vasa is involved in the early gonadal differentiation of silver pomfret. The study investigated the expression patterns of dmrt1, gsdf, amh, foxl2, cyp19a1a, cyp11a, sox3 and vasa, all of which are involved in the sex differentiation of teleosts. Among these genes, amh, gsdf, sox3, foxl2, vasa were indentified as crucial contributors to the early gonadal development of silver pomfret. Significant sex-related differences were observed in the expression patterns of amh, dmrt1, gsdf, cyp11a, sox3, cyp19a1a, vasa. This study provides novel insights into the timing of physiological changes associated with the sexual differentiation of silver pomfret. Collectively, the present data indicates that the differentiation of ovaries and testes take place approximately at 68 dph in females and 108 dph in males.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang Li
- Key Laboratory of Applied Marine Biotechnology, Ningbo University, Ministry of Education, Ningbo, China; Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology of Zhejiang Province, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China; College of marine Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Yaya Li
- Key Laboratory of Applied Marine Biotechnology, Ningbo University, Ministry of Education, Ningbo, China; Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology of Zhejiang Province, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China; College of marine Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Chunlai Qin
- Key Laboratory of Applied Marine Biotechnology, Ningbo University, Ministry of Education, Ningbo, China; Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology of Zhejiang Province, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China; College of marine Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Changhang Yu
- Key Laboratory of Applied Marine Biotechnology, Ningbo University, Ministry of Education, Ningbo, China; Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology of Zhejiang Province, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China; College of marine Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Jiabao Hu
- Key Laboratory of Applied Marine Biotechnology, Ningbo University, Ministry of Education, Ningbo, China; Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology of Zhejiang Province, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China; College of marine Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Chunyang Guo
- Key Laboratory of Applied Marine Biotechnology, Ningbo University, Ministry of Education, Ningbo, China; Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology of Zhejiang Province, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China; College of marine Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China.
| | - Yajun Wang
- Key Laboratory of Applied Marine Biotechnology, Ningbo University, Ministry of Education, Ningbo, China; Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology of Zhejiang Province, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China; College of marine Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China.
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8
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Chen Y, Lin Z, Zhang X, Wu M, Tong MH. Isolation of Homogeneous Sub-populations of Spermatocytes from Mouse Testis. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2818:115-132. [PMID: 39126470 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3906-1_7] [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] [Indexed: 08/12/2024]
Abstract
Mammalian meiosis is a highly specialized cell division process, resulting in the production of genetically unique haploid cells. However, the molecular mechanisms governing meiosis remain largely unknown, primarily due to the difficulty in isolating pure sub-populations of spermatocytes. Definitive molecular, biochemical, and functional investigations of the meiosis process require the isolation of these individual homogeneous sub-populations of spermatocytes. Here, we present an approach that enables the purification of homogeneous spermatocytes from mouse testis at desired sub-stages. This approach consists of two strategic steps. The first is to synchronize spermatogenesis, aiming to minimize the diversity and complexity of testicular germ cells. The second involves utilizing mouse models with germ cell-specific fluorescent markers to differentiate the desired subtype from other cells in the testis. By employing fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS), this approach yields highly pure populations of spermatocytes at each sub-stage. When combined with other massively parallel sequencing techniques and in vitro cell culture methods, this approach will enhance our comprehension of the molecular mechanisms underlying mammalian meiosis and promote in vitro gametogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yao Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China.
| | - Zhen Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Xi Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Meixia Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Ming-Han Tong
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China.
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9
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Perrone R, Ashok Kumaar PV, Haky L, Hahn C, Riley R, Balough J, Zaza G, Soygur B, Hung K, Prado L, Kasler HG, Tiwari R, Matsui H, Hormazabal GV, Heckenbach I, Scheibye-Knudsen M, Duncan FE, Verdin E. CD38 regulates ovarian function and fecundity via NAD + metabolism. iScience 2023; 26:107949. [PMID: 37822499 PMCID: PMC10562803 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.107949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Revised: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Mammalian female reproductive lifespan is typically significantly shorter than life expectancy and is associated with a decrease in ovarian NAD+ levels. However, the mechanisms underlying this loss of ovarian NAD+ are unclear. Here, we show that CD38, an NAD+ consuming enzyme, is expressed in the ovarian extrafollicular space, primarily in immune cells, and its levels increase with reproductive age. Reproductively young mice lacking CD38 exhibit larger primordial follicle pools, elevated ovarian NAD+ levels, and increased fecundity relative to wild type controls. This larger ovarian reserve results from a prolonged window of follicle formation during early development. However, the beneficial effect of CD38 loss on reproductive function is not maintained at advanced age. Our results demonstrate a novel role of CD38 in regulating ovarian NAD+ metabolism and establishing the ovarian reserve, a critical process that dictates a female's reproductive lifespan.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Lauren Haky
- Buck Institute for Research on Aging, Novato, CA, USA
- The Dominican University of California, San Rafael, CA, USA
| | - Cosmo Hahn
- Buck Institute for Research on Aging, Novato, CA, USA
| | | | - Julia Balough
- Buck Institute for Research on Aging, Novato, CA, USA
| | - Giuliana Zaza
- Buck Institute for Research on Aging, Novato, CA, USA
| | - Bikem Soygur
- Buck Institute for Research on Aging, Novato, CA, USA
| | - Kaitlyn Hung
- Buck Institute for Research on Aging, Novato, CA, USA
| | - Leandro Prado
- Buck Institute for Research on Aging, Novato, CA, USA
| | | | - Ritesh Tiwari
- Buck Institute for Research on Aging, Novato, CA, USA
| | | | | | - Indra Heckenbach
- Center for Healthy Aging, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Morten Scheibye-Knudsen
- Center for Healthy Aging, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Francesca E. Duncan
- Buck Institute for Research on Aging, Novato, CA, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Eric Verdin
- Buck Institute for Research on Aging, Novato, CA, USA
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10
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Liu A, Hao S, Liu F, Huang H, Ye H. Isolation of an Insulin-Like Receptor Involved in the Testicular Development of the Mud Crab Scylla paramamosain. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:13639. [PMID: 37686442 PMCID: PMC10487528 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241713639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/02/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Insulin-like androgenic gland hormone (IAG) is a key regulator of male sexual differentiation in crustaceans that plays important roles in secondary sexual characteristics and testicular development. As a hormone, IAG interacts with its membrane receptor to initiate downstream signal pathways to exert its biological functions. In this study, we isolated a full-length cDNA of an insulin-like receptor (Sp-IR) from the mud crab Scylla paramamosain. Sequence analysis revealed that this receptor consists of a Fu domain, two L domains, three FN-III domains, a transmembrane domain, and a tyrosine kinase domain, classifying it as a member of the tyrosine kinase insulin-like receptors family. Our results also suggested that Sp-IR was highly expressed in the testis and AG in males. Its expression in the testis peaked in stage I but significantly decreased in stages II and III (p < 0.01). Next, both short- and long-term RNA interference (RNAi) experiments were performed on males in stage I to explore Sp-IR function in mud crabs. The results showed that Sp-vasa and Sp-Dsx expression levels in the testis were significantly down-regulated after the specific knockdown of Sp-IR by RNAi. Additionally, the long-term knockdown of Sp-IR led to a considerable decrease in the volume of seminiferous tubules, accompanied by large vacuoles and a reduced production of secondary spermatocytes and spermatids. In conclusion, our results indicated that Sp-IR is involved in testicular development and plays a crucial role in transitioning from primary to secondary spermatocytes. This study provided a molecular basis for the subsequent analysis of the mechanism on male sexual differentiation in Brachyuran crabs.
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Affiliation(s)
- An Liu
- College of Fisheries, Jimei University, Xiamen 361021, China; (A.L.); (F.L.)
| | - Shuang Hao
- College of Ocean and Earth Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China; (S.H.); (H.H.)
| | - Fang Liu
- College of Fisheries, Jimei University, Xiamen 361021, China; (A.L.); (F.L.)
| | - Huiyang Huang
- College of Ocean and Earth Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China; (S.H.); (H.H.)
| | - Haihui Ye
- College of Fisheries, Jimei University, Xiamen 361021, China; (A.L.); (F.L.)
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11
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Wang Z, Jin C, Li P, Li Y, Tang J, Yu Z, Jiao T, Ou J, Wang H, Zou D, Li M, Mang X, Liu J, Lu Y, Li K, Zhang N, Yu J, Miao S, Wang L, Song W. Identification of quiescent FOXC2 + spermatogonial stem cells in adult mammals. eLife 2023; 12:RP85380. [PMID: 37610429 PMCID: PMC10446825 DOI: 10.7554/elife.85380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/24/2023] Open
Abstract
In adult mammals, spermatogenesis embodies the complex developmental process from spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) to spermatozoa. At the top of this developmental hierarchy lie a series of SSC subpopulations. Their individual identities as well as the relationships with each other, however, remain largely elusive. Using single-cell analysis and lineage tracing, we discovered both in mice and humans the quiescent adult SSC subpopulation marked specifically by forkhead box protein C2 (FOXC2). All spermatogenic progenies can be derived from FOXC2+ SSCs and the ablation of FOXC2+ SSCs led to the depletion of the undifferentiated spermatogonia pool. During germline regeneration, FOXC2+ SSCs were activated and able to completely restore the process. Germ cell-specific Foxc2 knockout resulted in an accelerated exhaustion of SSCs and eventually led to male infertility. Furthermore, FOXC2 prompts the expressions of negative regulators of cell cycle thereby ensures the SSCs reside in quiescence. Thus, this work proposes that the quiescent FOXC2+ SSCs are essential for maintaining the homeostasis and regeneration of spermatogenesis in adult mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhipeng Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Cheng Jin
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Pengyu Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Yiran Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Jielin Tang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Zhixin Yu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Tao Jiao
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Jinhuan Ou
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Han Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Dingfeng Zou
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Mengzhen Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Xinyu Mang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Jun Liu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Yan Lu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Kai Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Ning Zhang
- Medical Research Council Protein Phosphorylation and Ubiquitylation Unit (MRC-PPU), School of Life Sciences, University of DundeeDundeeUnited Kingdom
| | - Jia Yu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Shiying Miao
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Linfang Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Wei Song
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
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12
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Bustos P, Schmitt P, Brown DI, Farlora R. Silencing of the Vasa gene by RNA Interference Affects Embryonic Development and Reproductive Output in the Sea Louse Caligus rogercresseyi. MARINE BIOTECHNOLOGY (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2023; 25:612-623. [PMID: 37526783 DOI: 10.1007/s10126-023-10232-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2023]
Abstract
The sea louse Caligus rogercresseyi is a major ectoparasitic copepod that causes significant economic losses in the salmon farming industry. Despite recent advancements, the mechanisms underlying germline and embryo development in this species remain poorly understood. The Vasa gene encodes a highly conserved DEAD box helicase that is required for germ cell formation and function in many species. In this study, the Vasa gene was characterized in C. rogercresseyi, and its expression and function were analyzed. Phylogenetic analysis showed that the Cr-Vasa gene product formed clusters in clades with Vasa proteins from closely related species of crustaceans. Cr-Vasa gene expression patterns were assessed by qPCR, and the results showed a significantly higher relative expression level in adult females compared to copepodid, chalimus, and adult male stages. Tissue-specific localization of Cr-Vasa mRNA in C. rogercresseyi was determined using chromogenic in situ hybridization, and strong positive signal was observed in male testes, but also in the intestine and cuticle, while in females, it was observed in the ovaries, oocytes, cuticle, intestine, and egg strings. RNAi-mediated gene silencing of Cr-Vasa impacted embryonic development and reproductive output in adult female lice. Females from the dsVasa-treated group displayed unusual phenotypes, including shorter egg strings with numerous extra-embryonic inclusions, irregularly shaped abnormal embryos, and aborted egg strings. This study provides insights into the role of the Vasa gene in C. rogercresseyi embryonic development and reproductive output, which may have implications for the control of this parasitic copepod in the salmon farming industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paulina Bustos
- Laboratorio de Biotecnología Acuática y Genómica Reproductiva (LABYGER), Instituto de Biología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Valparaíso, Gran Bretaña 1111, 2360102, Valparaíso, Chile
- Doctorado en Acuicultura, Programa Cooperativo Universidad de Chile, Universidad Católica del Norte, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Valparaíso, Valparaíso, Chile
| | - Paulina Schmitt
- Laboratorio de Genética e Inmunología Molecular, Instituto de Biología, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Valparaíso, Valparaíso, Chile
| | - Donald I Brown
- Laboratorio de Biología de la Reproducción y del Desarrollo, Instituto de Biología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso, Chile
| | - Rodolfo Farlora
- Laboratorio de Biotecnología Acuática y Genómica Reproductiva (LABYGER), Instituto de Biología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Valparaíso, Gran Bretaña 1111, 2360102, Valparaíso, Chile.
- Centro de Investigación y Gestión de Recursos Naturales (CIGREN), Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso, Chile.
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13
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Adashev VE, Kotov AA, Olenina LV. RNA Helicase Vasa as a Multifunctional Conservative Regulator of Gametogenesis in Eukaryotes. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2023; 45:5677-5705. [PMID: 37504274 PMCID: PMC10378496 DOI: 10.3390/cimb45070358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2023] [Revised: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Being a conservative marker of germ cells across metazoan species, DEAD box RNA helicase Vasa (DDX4) remains the subject of worldwide investigations thanks to its multiple functional manifestations. Vasa takes part in the preformation of primordial germ cells in a group of organisms and contributes to the maintenance of germline stem cells. Vasa is an essential player in the piRNA-mediated silencing of harmful genomic elements and in the translational regulation of selected mRNAs. Vasa is the top hierarchical protein of germ granules, liquid droplet organelles that compartmentalize RNA processing factors. Here, we survey current advances and problems in the understanding of the multifaceted functions of Vasa proteins in the gametogenesis of different eukaryotic organisms, from nematodes to humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vladimir E Adashev
- Department of Molecular Mechanisms for Realization of Genetic Information, Laboratory of Biochemical Genetics of Animals, National Research Center "Kurchatov Institute", Kurchatov Sq. 1, 123182 Moscow, Russia
| | - Alexei A Kotov
- Department of Molecular Mechanisms for Realization of Genetic Information, Laboratory of Biochemical Genetics of Animals, National Research Center "Kurchatov Institute", Kurchatov Sq. 1, 123182 Moscow, Russia
| | - Ludmila V Olenina
- Department of Molecular Mechanisms for Realization of Genetic Information, Laboratory of Biochemical Genetics of Animals, National Research Center "Kurchatov Institute", Kurchatov Sq. 1, 123182 Moscow, Russia
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14
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Chukrallah LG, Snyder EM. Modern tools applied to classic structures: Approaches for mammalian male germ cell RNA granule research. Andrology 2023; 11:872-883. [PMID: 36273399 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Revised: 09/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
First reported in the 1800s, germ cell granules are small nonmembrane bound RNA-rich regions of the cytoplasm. These sites of critical RNA processing and storage in the male germ cell are essential for proper differentiation and development and are present in a wide range of species from Caenorhabditis elegans through mammals. Initially characterized by light and electron microscopy, more modern techniques such as immunofluorescence and genetic models have played a major role in expanding our understanding of the composition of these structures. While these methods have given light to potential granule functions, much work remains to be done. The current expansion of imaging technologies and omics-scale analyses to germ cell granule research will drive the field forward considerably. Many of these methods, both current and upcoming, have considerable caveats and limitations that necessitate a holistic approach to the study of germ granules. By combining and balancing different techniques, the field is poised to elucidate the nature of these critical structures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren G Chukrallah
- Department of Animal Science, Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
| | - Elizabeth M Snyder
- Department of Animal Science, Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
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15
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Bashawat M, Braun B, Müller K, Hermann B. Molecular phenotyping of domestic cat ( Felis catus) testicular cells across postnatal development - A model for wild felids. THERIOGENOLOGY WILD 2023; 2:100031. [PMID: 37461433 PMCID: PMC10350788 DOI: 10.1016/j.therwi.2023.100031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/20/2023]
Abstract
Molecular characterisation of testicular cells is a pivotal step towards a profound understanding of spermatogenesis and developing assisted reproductive techniques (ARTs) based on germline preservation. To enable the identification of testicular somatic and spermatogenic cell types in felids, we investigated the expression of five molecular markers at the protein level in testes from domestic cats (Felis catus) at different developmental phases (prepubertal, pubertal I and II, postpubertal I and II) classified by single-cell ploidy analysis. Our findings indicate a prominent co-labelling for two spermatogonial markers, UCHL1 and FOXO1, throughout postnatal testis development. Smaller subsets of UCHL1 or FOXO1 single-positive spermatogonia were also evident, with the FOXO1 single-positive spermatogonia predominantly observed in prepubertal testes. As expected, DDX4+ germ cells increased in numbers beginning in puberty, reaching a maximum at adulthood (post-pubertal phase), corresponding to the sequential appearance of labelled spermatogonia, spermatocytes and spermatids. Furthermore, we identified SOX9+ Sertoli cells and CYP17A1+ Leydig cells in all of the developmental groups. Importantly, testes of African lion (Panthera leo), Sumatran tiger (Panthera tigris sumatrae), Chinese leopard (Panthera pardus japonesis) and Sudan cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus soemmeringii) exhibited conserved labelling for UCHL1, FOXO1, DDX4, SOX9 and CYP17A1. The present study provides fundamental information about the identity of spermatogenic and somatic testicular cell types across felid development that will be useful for developing ART approaches to support endangered felid conservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. Bashawat
- Department of Biology, Humboldt University of Berlin, Invalidenstr. 42, D-10115 Berlin, Germany
- Department of Reproduction Biology, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Alfred-Kowalke-Str. 17, D-10315 Berlin, Germany
| | - B.C. Braun
- Department of Reproduction Biology, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Alfred-Kowalke-Str. 17, D-10315 Berlin, Germany
| | - K. Müller
- Department of Reproduction Biology, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Alfred-Kowalke-Str. 17, D-10315 Berlin, Germany
| | - B.P. Hermann
- Department of Neuroscience, Developmental and Regenerative Biology, The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78249, USA
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16
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MacDonald JA, Sheehan HC, Piasecki A, Faustino LR, Hauschildt C, Stolzenbach V, Woods DC, Tilly JL. Characterization of Oogonial Stem Cells in Adult Mouse Ovaries with Age and Comparison to In Silico Data on Human Ovarian Aging. Stem Cells Dev 2023; 32:99-114. [PMID: 36594561 PMCID: PMC9986025 DOI: 10.1089/scd.2022.0284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Many adult somatic stem cell lineages are comprised of subpopulations that differ in gene expression, mitotic activity, and differentiation status. In this study, we explored if cellular heterogeneity also exists within oogonial stem cells (OSCs), and how chronological aging impacts OSCs. In OSCs isolated from mouse ovaries by flow cytometry and established in culture, we identified subpopulations of OSCs that could be separated based on differential expression of stage-specific embryonic antigen 1 (SSEA1) and cluster of differentiation 61 (CD61). Levels of aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) activity were inversely related to OSC differentiation, whereas commitment of OSCs to differentiation through transcriptional activation of stimulated by retinoic acid gene 8 was marked by a decline in ALDH activity and in SSEA1 expression. Analysis of OSCs freshly isolated from ovaries of mice between 3 and 20 months of age revealed that these subpopulations were present and persisted throughout adult life. However, expression of developmental pluripotency associated 3 (Dppa3), an epigenetic modifier that promotes OSC differentiation into oocytes, was lost as the mice transitioned from a time of reproductive compromise (10 months) to reproductive failure (15 months). Further analysis showed that OSCs from aged females could be established in culture, and that once established the cultured cells reactivated Dppa3 expression and the capacity for oogenesis. Analysis of single-nucleus RNA sequence data sets generated from ovaries of women in their 20s versus those in their late 40s to early 50s showed that the frequency of DPPA3-expressing cells decreased with advancing age, and this was paralleled by reduced expression of several key meiotic differentiation genes. These data support the existence of OSC subpopulations that differ in gene expression profiles and differentiation status. In addition, an age-related decrease in Dppa3/DPPA3 expression, which is conserved between mice and humans, may play a role in loss of the ability of OSCs to maintain oogenesis with age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie A MacDonald
- Laboratory of Aging and Infertility Research, Department of Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Hannah C Sheehan
- Laboratory of Aging and Infertility Research, Department of Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Andrew Piasecki
- Laboratory of Aging and Infertility Research, Department of Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Luciana R Faustino
- Laboratory of Aging and Infertility Research, Department of Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Charlotte Hauschildt
- Laboratory of Aging and Infertility Research, Department of Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Victor Stolzenbach
- Laboratory of Aging and Infertility Research, Department of Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Dori C Woods
- Laboratory of Aging and Infertility Research, Department of Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jonathan L Tilly
- Laboratory of Aging and Infertility Research, Department of Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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17
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Burnet G, Feng CWA, Cheung KMF, Bowles J, Spiller CM. Generation and characterization of a Ddx4-iCre transgenic line for deletion in the germline beginning at genital ridge colonization. Genesis 2023; 61:e23511. [PMID: 36693128 DOI: 10.1002/dvg.23511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Revised: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Germline-specific Cre lines are useful for analyses of primordial germ cell, spermatogonial and oogonial development, but also for whole-body deletions when transmitted through subsequent generations. Several germ cell specific Cre mouse strains exist, with various degrees of specificity, efficiency, and temporal activation. Here, we describe the CRISPR/Cas9 targeted insertion of an improved Cre (iCre) sequence in-frame at the 3' end of the Ddx4 locus to generate the Ddx4-P2A-iCre allele. Our functional assessment of this new allele, designated Ddx4iCreJoBo , reveals that Cre activity begins in PGCs from at least E10.5, and that it achieves higher efficiency for early gonadal (E10.5-12.5) germline deletion when compared to the inducible Oct4CreERT2 line. We found the Ddx4iCreJoBo allele to be hypomorphic for Ddx4 expression and homozygous males, but not females, were infertile. Using two reporter lines (R26RLacZ and R26RtdTomato ) and a floxed gene of interest (Criptoflox ) we found ectopic activity in multiple organs; global recombination (a common feature of germline Cre alleles) varies from 10 to 100%, depending on the particular floxed allele. There is a strong maternal effect, and therefore it is preferable for Ddx4iCreJoBo to be inherited from the male parent if ubiquitous deletion is not desired. With these limitations considered, we describe the Ddx4iCreJoBo line as useful for germline studies in which early gonadal deletion is required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guillaume Burnet
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Chun-Wei Allen Feng
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Ka Man Fiona Cheung
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Josephine Bowles
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Cassy M Spiller
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
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18
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Shono M, Kishimoto K, Hikabe O, Hayashi M, Semi K, Takashima Y, Sasaki E, Kato K, Hayashi K. Induction of primordial germ cell-like cells from common marmoset embryonic stem cells by inhibition of WNT and retinoic acid signaling. Sci Rep 2023; 13:3186. [PMID: 36823310 PMCID: PMC9950483 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-29850-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 02/11/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Reconstitution of the germ cell lineage using pluripotent stem cells provides a unique platform to deepen our understanding of the mechanisms underlying germ cell development and to produce functional gametes for reproduction. This study aimed to establish a culture system that induces a robust number of primordial germ cell-like cells (PGCLCs) from common marmoset (Callithrix jacchus) embryonic stem cells. The robust induction was achieved by not only activation of the conserved PGC-inducing signals, WNT and BMP4, but also temporal inhibitions of WNT and retinoic acid signals, which prevent mesodermal and neural differentiation, respectively, during PGCLC differentiation. Many of the gene expression and differentiation properties of common marmoset PGCLCs were similar to those of human PGCLCs, making this culture system a reliable and useful primate model. Finally, we identified PDPN and KIT as surface marker proteins by which PGCLCs can be isolated from embryonic stem cells without genetic manipulation. This study will expand the opportunities for research on germ cell development and production of functional gametes to the common marmoset.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mayumi Shono
- grid.177174.30000 0001 2242 4849Department of Stem Cell Biology and Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka, 812-8582 Japan ,grid.177174.30000 0001 2242 4849Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka, 812-8582 Japan
| | - Keiko Kishimoto
- grid.452212.20000 0004 0376 978XDepartment of Marmoset Biology and Medicine, Central Institute for Experimental Animals, Kawasaki, 210-0821 Japan
| | - Orie Hikabe
- grid.177174.30000 0001 2242 4849Department of Stem Cell Biology and Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka, 812-8582 Japan
| | - Masafumi Hayashi
- grid.136593.b0000 0004 0373 3971Department of Genome Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871 Japan
| | - Katsunori Semi
- grid.258799.80000 0004 0372 2033Department of Life Science Frontiers, CiRA, Kyoto University, Kyoto, 606-8507 Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Takashima
- grid.258799.80000 0004 0372 2033Department of Life Science Frontiers, CiRA, Kyoto University, Kyoto, 606-8507 Japan
| | - Erika Sasaki
- grid.452212.20000 0004 0376 978XDepartment of Marmoset Biology and Medicine, Central Institute for Experimental Animals, Kawasaki, 210-0821 Japan
| | - Kiyoko Kato
- grid.177174.30000 0001 2242 4849Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka, 812-8582 Japan
| | - Katsuhiko Hayashi
- Department of Stem Cell Biology and Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan. .,Department of Genome Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan.
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19
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Legrand JMD, Hobbs RM. Defining Gene Function in Spermatogonial Stem Cells Through Conditional Knockout Approaches. Methods Mol Biol 2023; 2656:261-307. [PMID: 37249877 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3139-3_15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Mammalian male fertility is maintained throughout life by a population of self-renewing mitotic germ cells known as spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs). Much of our current understanding regarding the molecular mechanisms underlying SSC activity is derived from studies using conditional knockout mouse models. Here, we provide a guide for the selection and use of mouse strains to develop conditional knockout models for the study of SSCs, as well as their precursors and differentiation-committed progeny. We describe Cre recombinase-expressing strains, breeding strategies to generate experimental groups, and treatment regimens for inducible knockout models and provide advice for verifying and improving conditional knockout efficiency. This resource can be beneficial to those aiming to develop conditional knockout models for the study of SSC development and postnatal function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julien M D Legrand
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Robin M Hobbs
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia.
- Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia.
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20
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Farini D, De Felici M. The Beginning of Meiosis in Mammalian Female Germ Cells: A Never-Ending Story of Intrinsic and Extrinsic Factors. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232012571. [PMID: 36293427 PMCID: PMC9604137 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232012571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Revised: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Meiosis is the unique division of germ cells resulting in the recombination of the maternal and paternal genomes and the production of haploid gametes. In mammals, it begins during the fetal life in females and during puberty in males. In both cases, entering meiosis requires a timely switch from the mitotic to the meiotic cell cycle and the transition from a potential pluripotent status to meiotic differentiation. Revealing the molecular mechanisms underlying these interrelated processes represents the essence in understanding the beginning of meiosis. Meiosis facilitates diversity across individuals and acts as a fundamental driver of evolution. Major differences between sexes and among species complicate the understanding of how meiosis begins. Basic meiotic research is further hindered by a current lack of meiotic cell lines. This has been recently partly overcome with the use of primordial-germ-cell-like cells (PGCLCs) generated from pluripotent stem cells. Much of what we know about this process depends on data from model organisms, namely, the mouse; in mice, the process, however, appears to differ in many aspects from that in humans. Identifying the mechanisms and molecules controlling germ cells to enter meiosis has represented and still represents a major challenge for reproductive medicine. In fact, the proper execution of meiosis is essential for fertility, for maintaining the integrity of the genome, and for ensuring the normal development of the offspring. The main clinical consequences of meiotic defects are infertility and, probably, increased susceptibility to some types of germ-cell tumors. In the present work, we report and discuss data mainly concerning the beginning of meiosis in mammalian female germ cells, referring to such process in males only when pertinent. After a brief account of this process in mice and humans and an historical chronicle of the major hypotheses and progress in this topic, the most recent results are reviewed and discussed.
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21
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Mizuta K, Katou Y, Nakakita B, Kishine A, Nosaka Y, Saito S, Iwatani C, Tsuchiya H, Kawamoto I, Nakaya M, Tsukiyama T, Nagano M, Kojima Y, Nakamura T, Yabuta Y, Horie A, Mandai M, Ohta H, Saitou M. Ex vivo reconstitution of fetal oocyte development in humans and cynomolgus monkeys. EMBO J 2022; 41:e110815. [PMID: 35912849 PMCID: PMC9475534 DOI: 10.15252/embj.2022110815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Revised: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
In vitro oogenesis is key to elucidating the mechanism of human female germ-cell development and its anomalies. Accordingly, pluripotent stem cells have been induced into primordial germ cell-like cells and into oogonia with epigenetic reprogramming, yet further reconstitutions remain a challenge. Here, we demonstrate ex vivo reconstitution of fetal oocyte development in both humans and cynomolgus monkeys (Macaca fascicularis). With an optimized culture of fetal ovary reaggregates over three months, human and monkey oogonia enter and complete the first meiotic prophase to differentiate into diplotene oocytes that form primordial follicles, the source for oogenesis in adults. The cytological and transcriptomic progressions of fetal oocyte development in vitro closely recapitulate those in vivo. A comparison of single-cell transcriptomes among humans, monkeys, and mice unravels primate-specific and conserved programs driving fetal oocyte development, the former including a distinct transcriptomic transformation upon oogonia-to-oocyte transition and the latter including two active X chromosomes with little X-chromosome upregulation. Our study provides a critical step forward for realizing human in vitro oogenesis and uncovers salient characteristics of fetal oocyte development in primates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ken Mizuta
- Institute for the Advanced Study of Human Biology (ASHBi), Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan.,Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yoshitaka Katou
- Institute for the Advanced Study of Human Biology (ASHBi), Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan.,Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Baku Nakakita
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan.,Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Aoi Kishine
- Institute for the Advanced Study of Human Biology (ASHBi), Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan.,Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yoshiaki Nosaka
- Institute for the Advanced Study of Human Biology (ASHBi), Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan.,Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Saki Saito
- Institute for the Advanced Study of Human Biology (ASHBi), Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan.,Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Chizuru Iwatani
- Research Center for Animal Life Science, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan
| | - Hideaki Tsuchiya
- Research Center for Animal Life Science, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan
| | - Ikuo Kawamoto
- Research Center for Animal Life Science, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan
| | - Masataka Nakaya
- Institute for the Advanced Study of Human Biology (ASHBi), Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan.,Research Center for Animal Life Science, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan
| | - Tomoyuki Tsukiyama
- Institute for the Advanced Study of Human Biology (ASHBi), Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan.,Research Center for Animal Life Science, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan
| | - Masahiro Nagano
- Institute for the Advanced Study of Human Biology (ASHBi), Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan.,Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yoji Kojima
- Institute for the Advanced Study of Human Biology (ASHBi), Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan.,Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan.,Center for iPS Cell Research and Application (CiRA), Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Tomonori Nakamura
- Institute for the Advanced Study of Human Biology (ASHBi), Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan.,Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan.,The Hakubi Center for Advanced Research, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yukihiro Yabuta
- Institute for the Advanced Study of Human Biology (ASHBi), Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan.,Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Akihito Horie
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Masaki Mandai
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Ohta
- Institute for the Advanced Study of Human Biology (ASHBi), Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan.,Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Mitinori Saitou
- Institute for the Advanced Study of Human Biology (ASHBi), Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan.,Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan.,Center for iPS Cell Research and Application (CiRA), Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
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22
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Vasa Is a Potential Germ Cell Marker in Leopard Coral Grouper ( Plectropomus leopardus). Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:genes13061077. [PMID: 35741839 PMCID: PMC9222667 DOI: 10.3390/genes13061077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2022] [Revised: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Vasa (Ddx4, DEAD box polypeptide 4), an extremely specific marker of germ cells in vivo, is an ATP-dependent RNA helicase that plays an essential role in germ cell development and gametogenesis. However, the expression and function information about this gene in groupers remains lacking. Here, vasa homolog termed Plvasa was isolated and identified Plvasa as a putative germ cell marker in the leopard coral grouper, (Plectropomus leopardus). Results indicated that Plvasa contained 17 exons in the genomic sequence and 9 conserved motifs of the DEAD-box protein by sequence analysis. The sequence comparison, phylogenetic analyses and synteny analyses showed that Plvasa was homologous with other teleosts. Additionally, the expression of Plvasa was significantly higher in gonads than in other tissues in adult individuals (p < 0.05). Further, the distribution of Plvasa revealed that it was only expressed in the germ cells, such as spermatids, germline stem cells and oocytes at different stages, and could not be detected in the somatic cells of gonads. The current study verified that the Plvasa gene is a valuable molecular marker of germ cells in leopard coral grouper, which potentially plays an important role in investigating the genesis and development of teleost germ cells.
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23
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Alberico H, Fleischmann Z, Bobbitt T, Takai Y, Ishihara O, Seki H, Anderson RA, Telfer EE, Woods DC, Tilly JL. Workflow Optimization for Identification of Female Germline or Oogonial Stem Cells in Human Ovarian Cortex Using Single-Cell RNA Sequence Analysis. Stem Cells 2022; 40:523-536. [PMID: 35263439 PMCID: PMC9199849 DOI: 10.1093/stmcls/sxac015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
In 2004, the identification of female germline or oogonial stem cells (OSCs) that can support post-natal oogenesis in ovaries of adult mice sparked a major paradigm shift in reproductive biology. Although these findings have been independently verified, and further extended to include identification of OSCs in adult ovaries of many species ranging from pigs and cows to non-human primates and humans, a recent study rooted in single-cell RNA sequence analysis (scRNA-seq) of adult human ovarian cortical tissue claimed that OSCs do not exist, and that other groups working with OSCs following isolation by magnetic-assisted or fluorescence-activated cell sorting have mistaken perivascular cells (PVCs) for germ cells. Here we report that rare germ lineage cells with a gene expression profile matched to OSCs but distinct from that of other cells, including oocytes and PVCs, can be identified in adult human ovarian cortical tissue by scRNA-seq after optimization of analytical workflow parameters. Deeper cell-by-cell expression profiling also uncovered evidence of germ cells undergoing meiosis-I in adult human ovaries. Lastly, we show that, if not properly controlled for, PVCs can be inadvertently isolated during flow cytometry protocols designed to sort OSCs because of inherently high cellular autofluorescence. However, human PVCs and human germ cells segregate into distinct clusters following scRNA-seq due to non-overlapping gene expression profiles, which would preclude the mistaken identification and use of PVCs as OSCs during functional characterization studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Alberico
- Laboratory of Aging and Infertility Research, Department of Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Zoë Fleischmann
- Laboratory of Aging and Infertility Research, Department of Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Tyler Bobbitt
- Laboratory of Aging and Infertility Research, Department of Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Yasushi Takai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Saitama Medical Center, Saitama Medical University, Saitama 350-0495, Japan
| | - Osamu Ishihara
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Saitama Medical Center, Saitama Medical University, Saitama 350-0495, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Seki
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Saitama Medical Center, Saitama Medical University, Saitama 350-0495, Japan
| | - Richard A Anderson
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, Queens Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH14 1DJ, UK
| | - Evelyn E Telfer
- Institute of Cell Biology, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH14 1DJ, UK
| | - Dori C Woods
- Laboratory of Aging and Infertility Research, Department of Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Jonathan L Tilly
- Laboratory of Aging and Infertility Research, Department of Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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24
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Milani L, Cinelli F, Iannello M, Lazzari M, Franceschini V, Maurizii MG. Immunolocalization of Vasa, PIWI, and TDRKH proteins in male germ cells during spermatogenesis of the teleost fish Poecilia reticulata. Acta Histochem 2022; 124:151870. [PMID: 35218995 DOI: 10.1016/j.acthis.2022.151870] [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: 09/15/2021] [Revised: 02/12/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Vasa, PIWI and TDRKH are conserved components of germ granules that in metazoans are involved in germline specification and differentiation, as documented by mutational experiments in some model animals. So far, investigations on PIWI during spermatogenesis of fish has been limited to a few species, and no information is available for TDRKH, another protein involved in the piRNA pathway. In this study, the immunolocalization of these three germline determinants was analyzed in male gonads of the teleost fish Poecilia reticulata to document their localization pattern in the different stages of germ cell differentiation. To analyze their distribution pattern during the different stages of spermatogenesis we performed immunohistochemistry (IHC) and immunofluorescence (IF) assays using primary polyclonal antibodies after testing their specificity with Western Blot. Moreover, sections of testis stained with haematoxylin and eosin clarified the structural organization of P. reticulata testis, while the use of the confocal microscope and the nuclear staining clarified the different stages of germ cell differentiation during spermatogenesis. The results showed that Vasa, PIWI and TDRKH were specifically immunolocalized in the germ cells of P. reticulata, with no specific signal detected in Sertoli cells and in other somatic cells of the gonad. These markers were detected in all stages of differentiation from early spermatogonia to advanced spermatids. Vasa staining was the strongest in spermatogonia, and then decreases throughout differentiation. Instead, both PIWI and TDRKH staining increases during differentiation, and their distribution pattern, similar to what observed in the mouse, suggests their concerted participation in the piRNA pathway also in this fish.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Milani
- Department of Biological, Geological, and Environmental Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.
| | - F Cinelli
- Department of Biological, Geological, and Environmental Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - M Iannello
- Department of Biological, Geological, and Environmental Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - M Lazzari
- Department of Biological, Geological, and Environmental Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - V Franceschini
- Department of Biological, Geological, and Environmental Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - M G Maurizii
- Department of Biological, Geological, and Environmental Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.
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25
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Quarato P, Singh M, Bourdon L, Cecere G. Inheritance and maintenance of small RNA-mediated epigenetic effects. Bioessays 2022; 44:e2100284. [PMID: 35338497 DOI: 10.1002/bies.202100284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Revised: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Heritable traits are predominantly encoded within genomic DNA, but it is now appreciated that epigenetic information is also inherited through DNA methylation, histone modifications, and small RNAs. Several examples of transgenerational epigenetic inheritance of traits have been documented in plants and animals. These include even the inheritance of traits acquired through the soma during the life of an organism, implicating the transfer of epigenetic information via the germline to the next generation. Small RNAs appear to play a significant role in carrying epigenetic information across generations. This review focuses on how epigenetic information in the form of small RNAs is transmitted from the germline to the embryos through the gametes. We also consider how inherited epigenetic information is maintained across generations in a small RNA-dependent and independent manner. Finally, we discuss how epigenetic traits acquired from the soma can be inherited through small RNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piergiuseppe Quarato
- Department of Developmental and Stem Cell Biology, Institut Pasteur, Université de Paris, CNRS UMR3738, Mechanisms of Epigenetic Inheritance, Paris, France
| | - Meetali Singh
- Department of Developmental and Stem Cell Biology, Institut Pasteur, Université de Paris, CNRS UMR3738, Mechanisms of Epigenetic Inheritance, Paris, France
| | - Loan Bourdon
- Department of Developmental and Stem Cell Biology, Institut Pasteur, Université de Paris, CNRS UMR3738, Mechanisms of Epigenetic Inheritance, Paris, France
| | - Germano Cecere
- Department of Developmental and Stem Cell Biology, Institut Pasteur, Université de Paris, CNRS UMR3738, Mechanisms of Epigenetic Inheritance, Paris, France
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26
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Razmi K, Patil JG. Primordial Germ Cell Development in the Poeciliid, Gambusia holbrooki, Reveals Shared Features Between Lecithotrophs and Matrotrophs. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:793498. [PMID: 35300414 PMCID: PMC8920993 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.793498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Accepted: 01/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Metazoans exhibit two modes of primordial germ cell (PGC) specification that are interspersed across taxa. However, the evolutionary link between the two modes and the reproductive strategies of lecithotrophy and matrotrophy is poorly understood. As a first step to understand this, the spatio-temporal expression of teleostean germ plasm markers was investigated in Gambusia holbrooki, a poecilid with shared lecitho- and matrotrophy. A group of germ plasm components was detected in the ovum suggesting maternal inheritance mode of PGC specification. However, the strictly zygotic activation of dnd-β and nanos1 occurred relatively early, reminiscent of models with induction mode (e.g., mice). The PGC clustering, migration and colonisation patterns of G. holbrooki resembled those of zebrafish, medaka and mice at blastula, gastrula and somitogenesis, respectively-recapitulating features of advancing evolutionary nodes with progressive developmental stages. Moreover, the expression domains of PGC markers in G. holbrooki were either specific to teleost (vasa expression in developing PGCs), murine models (dnd spliced variants) or shared between the two taxa (germline and somatic expression of piwi and nanos1). Collectively, the results suggest that the reproductive developmental adaptations may reflect a transition from lecithotrophy to matrotrophy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Komeil Razmi
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Fisheries and Aquaculture Centre, Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, Taroona, TAS, Australia
| | - Jawahar G. Patil
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Fisheries and Aquaculture Centre, Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, Taroona, TAS, Australia
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27
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Grunwald HA, Weitzel AJ, Cooper KL. Applications of and considerations for using CRISPR-Cas9-mediated gene conversion systems in rodents. Nat Protoc 2022; 17:3-14. [PMID: 34949863 DOI: 10.1038/s41596-021-00646-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Genetic elements that are inherited at super-Mendelian frequencies could be used in a 'gene drive' to spread an allele to high prevalence in a population with the goal of eliminating invasive species or disease vectors. We recently demonstrated that the gene conversion mechanism underlying a CRISPR-Cas9-mediated gene drive is feasible in mice. Although substantial technical hurdles remain, overcoming these could lead to strategies that might decrease the spread of rodent-borne Lyme disease or eliminate invasive populations of mice and rats that devastate island ecology. Perhaps more immediately achievable at moderate gene conversion efficiency, applications in a laboratory setting could produce complex genotypes that reduce the time and cost in both dollars and animal lives compared with Mendelian inheritance strategies. Here, we discuss what we have learned from early efforts to achieve CRISPR-Cas9-mediated gene conversion, potential for broader applications in the laboratory, current limitations, and plans for optimizing this potentially powerful technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah A Grunwald
- Division of Biological Sciences, Section of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Alexander J Weitzel
- Division of Biological Sciences, Section of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Kimberly L Cooper
- Division of Biological Sciences, Section of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.
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28
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Pou5f1 and Nanog Are Reliable Germ Cell-Specific Genes in Gonad of a Protogynous Hermaphroditic Fish, Orange-Spotted Grouper (Epinephelus coioides). Genes (Basel) 2021; 13:genes13010079. [PMID: 35052423 PMCID: PMC8774525 DOI: 10.3390/genes13010079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Revised: 12/12/2021] [Accepted: 12/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Pluripotency markers Pou5f1 and Nanog are core transcription factors regulating early embryonic development and maintaining the pluripotency and self-renewal of stem cells. Pou5f1 and Nanog also play important roles in germ cell development and gametogenesis. In this study, Pou5f1 (EcPou5f1) and Nanog (EcNanog) were cloned from orange-spotted grouper, Epinephelus coioides. The full-length cDNAs of EcPou5f1 and EcNanog were 2790 and 1820 bp, and encoded 475 and 432 amino acids, respectively. EcPou5f1 exhibited a specific expression in gonads, whereas EcNanog was expressed highly in gonads and weakly in some somatic tissues. In situ hybridization analyses showed that the mRNA signals of EcNanog and EcPou5f1 were exclusively restricted to germ cells in gonads. Likewise, immunohistofluorescence staining revealed that EcNanog protein was limited to germ cells. Moreover, both EcPou5f1 and EcNanog mRNAs were discovered to be co-localized with Vasa mRNA, a well-known germ cell maker, in male and female germ cells. These results implied that EcPou5f1 and EcNanog could be also regarded as reliable germ cell marker genes. Therefore, the findings of this study would pave the way for elucidating the mechanism whereby EcPou5f1 and EcNanog regulate germ cell development and gametogenesis in grouper fish, and even in other protogynous hermaphroditic species.
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29
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Mercer M, Jang S, Ni C, Buszczak M. The Dynamic Regulation of mRNA Translation and Ribosome Biogenesis During Germ Cell Development and Reproductive Aging. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:710186. [PMID: 34805139 PMCID: PMC8595405 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.710186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
The regulation of mRNA translation, both globally and at the level of individual transcripts, plays a central role in the development and function of germ cells across species. Genetic studies using flies, worms, zebrafish and mice have highlighted the importance of specific RNA binding proteins in driving various aspects of germ cell formation and function. Many of these mRNA binding proteins, including Pumilio, Nanos, Vasa and Dazl have been conserved through evolution, specifically mark germ cells, and carry out similar functions across species. These proteins typically influence mRNA translation by binding to specific elements within the 3′ untranslated region (UTR) of target messages. Emerging evidence indicates that the global regulation of mRNA translation also plays an important role in germ cell development. For example, ribosome biogenesis is often regulated in a stage specific manner during gametogenesis. Moreover, oocytes need to produce and store a sufficient number of ribosomes to support the development of the early embryo until the initiation of zygotic transcription. Accumulating evidence indicates that disruption of mRNA translation regulatory mechanisms likely contributes to infertility and reproductive aging in humans. These findings highlight the importance of gaining further insights into the mechanisms that control mRNA translation within germ cells. Future work in this area will likely have important impacts beyond germ cell biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marianne Mercer
- Department of Molecular Biology, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
| | - Seoyeon Jang
- Department of Molecular Biology, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
| | - Chunyang Ni
- Department of Molecular Biology, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
| | - Michael Buszczak
- Department of Molecular Biology, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
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30
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Porras-Gómez TJ, Villagrán-SantaCruz M, Moreno-Mendoza N. Biology of primordial germ cells in vertebrates with emphasis in urodeles amphibians. Mol Reprod Dev 2021; 88:773-792. [PMID: 34532913 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2021] [Revised: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Primordial germ cells (PGCs) are highly specialized cells that play a relevant role in the maintenance and evolution of the species, since they create new combinations of genetic information between the organisms. Amphibians are a class of amniote vertebrates that are divided into three subclasses, the anurans (frogs and toads), the urodeles (salamanders and newts), and the gymnophiones (caecilians). The study of PGCs in amphibians has been addressed in more detail in anurans while little is known about the biology of this cell lineage in urodeles. Studies in some urodeles species have suggested that PGCs are of mesodermal origin, specifying in the lateral plate mesoderm at the late gastrula stage. With classical experiments it shown that, there is an induction of mesoderm, therefore most likely urodeles PGCs develop from unspecialized mesodermal tissue that responds to extracellular signals. However, some fundamental biological processes of PGCs such as the analysis of their specification, arrival, and colonization to the gonads, and their maintenance and differentiation into mature and fertile gametes remain to be elucidated. Therefore, knowledge about the biology of PGCs is of great importance to ensure the perpetuation of urodeles amphibians, as some species are in danger of becoming extinct.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tania J Porras-Gómez
- Laboratorio de Biología Tisular y Reproductora, Departamento de Biología Comparada, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Maricela Villagrán-SantaCruz
- Laboratorio de Biología Tisular y Reproductora, Departamento de Biología Comparada, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Norma Moreno-Mendoza
- Departamento de Biología Celular y Fisiología, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, México
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31
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Hassani Moghaddam M, Eskandari N, Nikzad H, Miryounesi M, Karimian M, Amini Mahabadi J, Ali Atlasi M. Primordial germ cells can be differentiated by retinoic acid and progesterone induction from embryonic stem cells. J Biosci 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s12038-021-00210-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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32
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Cao D, Shi F, Guo C, Liu Y, Lin Z, Zhang J, Li RHW, Yao Y, Liu K, Ng EHY, Yeung WSB, Wang T. A pathogenic DMC1 frameshift mutation causes nonobstructive azoospermia but not primary ovarian insufficiency in humans. Mol Hum Reprod 2021; 27:6369522. [PMID: 34515795 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaab058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2021] [Revised: 09/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA) and diminished ovarian reserve (DOR) are two disorders that can lead to infertility in males and females. Genetic factors have been identified to contribute to NOA and DOR. However, the same genetic factor that can cause both NOA and DOR remains largely unknown. To explore the candidate pathogenic gene that causes both NOA and DOR, we conducted whole-exome sequencing (WES) in a non-consanguineous family with two daughters with DOR and a son with NOA. We detected one pathogenic frameshift variant (NM_007068:c.28delG, p. Glu10Asnfs*31) following a recessive inheritance mode in a meiosis gene DMC1 (DNA meiotic recombinase 1). Clinical analysis showed reduced antral follicle number in both daughters with DOR, but metaphase II oocytes could be retrieved from one of them. For the son with NOA, no spermatozoa were found after microsurgical testicular sperm extraction. A further homozygous Dmc1 knockout mice study demonstrated total failure of follicle development and spermatogenesis. These results revealed a discrepancy of DMC1 action between mice and humans. In humans, DMC1 is required for spermatogenesis but is dispensable for oogenesis, although the loss of function of this gene may lead to DOR. To our knowledge, this is the first report on the homozygous frameshift mutation as causative for both NOA and DOR and demonstrating that DMC1 is dispensable in human oogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dandan Cao
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Reproductive Medicine Center, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China.,Guangdong-Hong Kong Metabolism & Reproduction Joint Laboratory, Guangzhou, China
| | - Fu Shi
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Reproductive Medicine Center, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Chenxi Guo
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Reproductive Medicine Center, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Ye Liu
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Reproductive Medicine Center, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Zexiong Lin
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Reproductive Medicine Center, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Juanhui Zhang
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Reproductive Medicine Center, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Raymond Hang Wun Li
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Reproductive Medicine Center, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Yuanqing Yao
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Reproductive Medicine Center, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China.,Guangdong-Hong Kong Metabolism & Reproduction Joint Laboratory, Guangzhou, China
| | - Kui Liu
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Reproductive Medicine Center, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China.,Guangdong-Hong Kong Metabolism & Reproduction Joint Laboratory, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Ernest Hung Yu Ng
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Reproductive Medicine Center, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - William Shu Biu Yeung
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Reproductive Medicine Center, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China.,Guangdong-Hong Kong Metabolism & Reproduction Joint Laboratory, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Tianren Wang
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Reproductive Medicine Center, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China.,Guangdong-Hong Kong Metabolism & Reproduction Joint Laboratory, Guangzhou, China
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Stem Cells in Adult Mice Ovaries Form Germ Cell Nests, Undergo Meiosis, Neo-oogenesis and Follicle Assembly on Regular Basis During Estrus Cycle. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2021; 17:1695-1711. [PMID: 34455541 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-021-10237-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Very small embryonic-like (VSELs) and ovarian (OSCs) stem cells are located in adult mammalian ovary surface epithelium (OSE). OSCs can expand long-term and differentiate into oocyte-like structures in vitro and have resulted in birth of fertile pups. Lineage tracing studies have provided evidence to suggest OSCs differentiation into oocytes in vivo. But how these stem cells function under normal physiological conditions has not yet been well worked out. Besides studying STRA-8 and SCP-3 expression in enzymatically isolated OSE cells smears, mice were injected BrdU to track mitosis, meiosis and follicle assembly. H&E stained OSE cells during late diestrus and proestrus showed VSELs undergoing asymmetrical cell divisions to give rise to slightly bigger OSCs which in turn underwent symmetrical cell divisions followed by clonal expansion (rapid expansion with incomplete cytokinesis) during early estrus to form germ cell nests (GCN). OCT-4, SSEA-1, MVH and DAZL positive cells in GCN expressed Erα, Erβ and FSHR, were interconnected by ring canals (TEX-14), showed mitochondrial aggregation (Cytochrome C) and Balbiani Body (TRAL). Apoptosis in 'nurse' cells was marked by PARP and putative oocytes were clearly visualized. BrdU was detected in cells undergoing mitosis/meiosis and also in an oocyte of secondary follicle. FACS sorted, green fluorescent protein (GFP) positive VSELs upon transplantation resulted in GFP positive GCN suggesting crucial role for VSELs in adult ovaries. Results suggest that various events described during oogenesis and follicle assembly in fetal ovaries are recapitulated on regular basis in adult ovary and result in the formation of follicles.
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Ariyath A, Kanthi JM, Paul-Prasanth B. Differentiation Potential of Cultured Extracellular DEAD-Box Helicase 4+ Oogonial Stem Cells from Adult Human Ovaries into Somatic Lineages. Cells Tissues Organs 2021; 211:577-588. [PMID: 34412061 DOI: 10.1159/000519087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Accepted: 08/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ajish Ariyath
- Centre for Nanosciences and Molecular Medicine, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, Kochi, India
| | - Janu Mangala Kanthi
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, Kochi, India
| | - Bindhu Paul-Prasanth
- Centre for Nanosciences and Molecular Medicine, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, Kochi, India
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CRISPR/Cas9-based genetic screen of SCNT-reprogramming resistant genes identifies critical genes for male germ cell development in mice. Sci Rep 2021; 11:15438. [PMID: 34326397 PMCID: PMC8322354 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-94851-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Male germ cells undergo complex developmental processes eventually producing spermatozoa through spermatogenesis, although the molecular mechanisms remain largely elusive. We have previously identified somatic cell nuclear transfer-reprogramming resistant genes (SRRGs) that are highly enriched for genes essential for spermatogenesis, although many of them remain uncharacterized in knockout (KO) mice. Here, we performed a CRISPR-based genetic screen using C57BL/6N mice for five uncharacterized SRRGs (Cox8c, Cox7b2, Tuba3a/3b, Faiml, and Gm773), together with meiosis essential gene Majin as a control. RT-qPCR analysis of mouse adult tissues revealed that the five selected SRRGs were exclusively expressed in testis. Analysis of single-cell RNA-seq datasets of adult testis revealed stage-specific expression (pre-, mid-, or post-meiotic expression) in testicular germ cells. Examination of testis morphology, histology, and sperm functions in CRISPR-injected KO adult males revealed that Cox7b2, Gm773, and Tuba3a/3b are required for the production of normal spermatozoa. Specifically, Cox7b2 KO mice produced poorly motile infertile spermatozoa, Gm773 KO mice produced motile spermatozoa with limited zona penetration abilities, and Tuba3a/3b KO mice completely lost germ cells at the early postnatal stages. Our genetic screen focusing on SRRGs efficiently identified critical genes for male germ cell development in mice, which also provides insights into human reproductive medicine.
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Mahboudi S, Parivar K, Mazaheri Z, Irani SH. Mir-106b Cluster Regulates Primordial Germ Cells Differentiation from Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells. CELL JOURNAL 2021; 23:294-302. [PMID: 34308572 PMCID: PMC8286458 DOI: 10.22074/cellj.2021.6836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2019] [Accepted: 02/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Objective Numerous evidence indicates that microRNAs (miRNAs) are critical regulators in the spermatogenesis
process. The aim of this study was to investigate Mir-106b cluster regulates primordial germ cells (PGCs) differentiation
from human mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs).
Materials and Methods In this experimental study, samples containing male adipose (n: 9 samples- age: 25-40 years)
were obtained from cosmetic surgeries performed for the liposuction in Imam Khomeini Hospital. The differentiation
of MSCs into PGCs was accomplished by transfection of a lentivector expressing miR-106b. The transfection of miR-
106b was also confirmed by the detection of a clear green fluorescent protein (GFP) signal in MSCs. MSCs were
treated with bone morphogenic factor 4 (BMP4) protein, as a putative inducer of PGCs differentiation, to induce the
differentiation of MSCs into PGCs (positive control). After 4 days of transfection, the expression of miR-106b, STELLA,
and FRAGILIS genes was evaluated by real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Also, the levels of thymocyte
differentiation antigen 1 (Thy1) protein was assessed by the western blot analysis. The cell surface expression of CD90
was also determined by immunocytochemistry method. The cytotoxicity of miR-106b was examined in MSCs after 24,
48, and 72 hours using the MTT assay. Results MSCs treated with BMP4 or transfected by miR-106b were successfully differentiated into PGCs. The results
of this study also showed that the expression of miR-106b was significantly increased after 48 hours from transfection.
Also, we showed STELLA, FARGILIS, as well as the protein expression of Thy1, was significantly higher in MSCs
transfected by lentivector expressing miR-106b in comparison with MSCs treated with BMP4 (P≤0.05). MTT assay
showed miR-106b was no toxic during 72 hours in 1 µg/ml dose, that this amount could elevated germ cells marker
significantly higher than other experimental groups (P≤0.05).
Conclusion According to this findings, it appears that miR-106b plays an essential role in the differentiation of MSCs
into PGCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sadaf Mahboudi
- Department of Biology, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Kazem Parivar
- Department of Biology, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Zohreh Mazaheri
- Basic Medical Sciences Research Center, Histogenotech Company, Tehran, Iran
| | - S Hiva Irani
- Department of Biology, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
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Li Y, Zhang Y, Liu M. Knockout Gene-Based Evidence for PIWI-Interacting RNA Pathway in Mammals. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:681188. [PMID: 34336834 PMCID: PMC8317503 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.681188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The PIWI-interacting RNA (piRNA) pathway mainly consists of evolutionarily conserved protein factors. Intriguingly, many mutations of piRNA pathway factors lead to meiotic arrest during spermatogenesis. The majority of piRNA factor-knockout animals show arrested meiosis in spermatogenesis, and only a few show post-meiosis male germ cell arrest. It is still unclear whether the majority of piRNA factors expressed in spermatids are involved in long interspersed nuclear element-1 repression after meiosis, but future conditional knockout research is expected to resolve this. In addition, recent hamster knockout studies showed that a piRNA factor is necessary for oocytes-in complete contrast to the findings in mice. This species discrepancy allows researchers to reexamine the function of piRNA in female germ cells. This mini-review focuses on the current knowledge of protein factors derived from mammalian knockout studies and summarizes their roles in the biogenesis and function of piRNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yinuo Li
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yue Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Clinical Center of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Mingxi Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
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Reunov A, Alexandrova Y, Komkova A, Reunova Y, Pimenova E, Vekhova E, Milani L. VASA-induced cytoplasmic localization of CYTB-positive mitochondrial substance occurs by destructive and nondestructive mitochondrial effusion, respectively, in early and late spermatogenic cells of the Manila clam. PROTOPLASMA 2021; 258:817-825. [PMID: 33580838 DOI: 10.1007/s00709-020-01601-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
To analyze the release of mitochondrial material, a process that is believed to be (i) induced by the VASA protein derived from germplasm granules, and (ii) which appears to play an important role during meiotic differentiation, the localization of the CYTB protein was studied in the process of spermatogenesis of the bivalve mollusk Ruditapes philippinarum (Manila clam). It was found that in early spermatogenic cells, such as spermatogonia and spermatocytes, the CYTB protein shows dispersion in the cytoplasm following the total disaggregation of VASA-invaded mitochondria, what is called here as "destructive mitochondrial effusion (DME)." It was found that the mitochondria of the maturing sperm cells also uptake VASA. It is accompanied by extramitochondrial transmembrane localization of CYTB assuming mitochondrial content release without mitochondrion demolishing. This phenomenon is called here as "nondestructive mitochondrial effusion (NDME)." Thus, in the spermatogenesis of the Manila clam, two patterns of mitochondrial release, DME and NDME, were found, which function, respectively, in early spermatogenic cells and in maturing spermatozoa. Despite the morphological difference, it is assumed that both DME and NDME have a similar functional nature. In both cases, the intramitochondrial localization of VASA coincides with the extramitochondrial localization of the mitochondrial matrix.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arkadiy Reunov
- Department of Biology, St. Francis Xavier University, Antigonish, NS, B2G 2W5, Canada.
- Far Eastern Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, National Scientific Centre of Marine Biology, Vladivostok, 690041, Russia.
| | - Yana Alexandrova
- Far Eastern Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, National Scientific Centre of Marine Biology, Vladivostok, 690041, Russia
| | - Alina Komkova
- Far Eastern Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, National Scientific Centre of Marine Biology, Vladivostok, 690041, Russia
| | - Yulia Reunova
- Far Eastern Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, National Scientific Centre of Marine Biology, Vladivostok, 690041, Russia
| | - Evgenia Pimenova
- Far Eastern Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, National Scientific Centre of Marine Biology, Vladivostok, 690041, Russia
| | - Evgenia Vekhova
- Far Eastern Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, National Scientific Centre of Marine Biology, Vladivostok, 690041, Russia
| | - Liliana Milani
- Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, University of Bologna, Via Selmi, 3, 40126, Bologna, Italy
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Chadourne M, Poumerol E, Jouneau L, Passet B, Castille J, Sellem E, Pailhoux E, Mandon-Pépin B. Structural and Functional Characterization of a Testicular Long Non-coding RNA (4930463O16Rik) Identified in the Meiotic Arrest of the Mouse Topaz1 -/- Testes. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:700290. [PMID: 34277642 PMCID: PMC8281061 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.700290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Spermatogenesis involves coordinated processes, including meiosis, to produce functional gametes. We previously reported Topaz1 as a germ cell-specific gene highly conserved in vertebrates. Topaz1 knockout males are sterile with testes that lack haploid germ cells because of meiotic arrest after prophase I. To better characterize Topaz1–/– testes, we used RNA-sequencing analyses at two different developmental stages (P16 and P18). The absence of TOPAZ1 disturbed the expression of genes involved in microtubule and/or cilium mobility, biological processes required for spermatogenesis. Moreover, a quarter of P18 dysregulated genes are long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), and three of them are testis-specific and located in spermatocytes, their expression starting between P11 and P15. The suppression of one of them, 4939463O16Rik, did not alter fertility although sperm parameters were disturbed and sperm concentration fell. The transcriptome of P18-4939463O16Rik–/– testes was altered and the molecular pathways affected included microtubule-based processes, the regulation of cilium movement and spermatogenesis. The absence of TOPAZ1 protein or 4930463O16Rik produced the same enrichment clusters in mutant testes despite a contrasted phenotype on male fertility. In conclusion, although Topaz1 is essential for the meiosis in male germ cells and regulate the expression of numerous lncRNAs, these studies have identified a Topaz1 regulated lncRNA (4930463O16Rik) that is key for both sperm production and motility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manon Chadourne
- UVSQ, INRAE, BREED, Université Paris-Saclay, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Elodie Poumerol
- UVSQ, INRAE, BREED, Université Paris-Saclay, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Luc Jouneau
- UVSQ, INRAE, BREED, Université Paris-Saclay, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Bruno Passet
- INRAE, AgroParisTech, GABI, Université Paris-Saclay, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Johan Castille
- INRAE, AgroParisTech, GABI, Université Paris-Saclay, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | | | - Eric Pailhoux
- UVSQ, INRAE, BREED, Université Paris-Saclay, Jouy-en-Josas, France
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Liu X, Zhu Y, Zhao Y, Wang Y, Li W, Hong X, Yu L, Chen C, Xu H, Zhu X. Vasa expression is associated with sex differentiation in the Asian yellow pond turtle, Mauremys mutica. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL ZOOLOGY PART B-MOLECULAR AND DEVELOPMENTAL EVOLUTION 2021; 336:431-442. [PMID: 34101984 DOI: 10.1002/jez.b.23064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2020] [Revised: 04/10/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Vasa, one of the best-studied germ cell markers plays a critical role in germ cell development and differentiation in animals. Vasa deficiency would lead to male-specific sterility in most vertebrates, but female sterility in the fly. However, the role of the vasa gene involved in germ cell differentiation is largely elusive. Here, we first characterized the expression profile of vasa products in the Asian yellow pond turtle by quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction and fluorescence immunostaining. The results showed that vasa messenger RNA (mRNA) is initially detected in embryos at stage 16, and then dramatically increased in embryos at stage 19. In particular, like the sex-related genes, vasa mRNA exhibited differential expression in embryos between the male-producing temperature (MPT, 25°C) and the female-producing temperature (FPT, 33°C), whereas there was no difference in methylation levels of vasa promoter detected between FPT and MPT. In contrast, in the adult Asian yellow pond, the level of vasa mRNA was much higher in the testis than ovary. Moreover, the immunostaining on testicular sections and cells showed that Vasa protein was exclusively expressed in germ cells: Weak but detectable in spermatogonia, highest in spermatocytes, moderate and concentrated in chromatid bodies in spermatids and spermatozoa, and bare in somatic cells. The expression profile of Vasa protein is similar in turtle species studied so far but distinct from those in fish species in this study. The findings of this study would provide new insights into our understanding of the conservation and divergence of the vasa gene, even other germ cell genes across phyla.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoli Liu
- Key Laboratory of Tropical & Subtropical Fishery Resource Application & Cultivation of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Pearl River Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yanyu Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Tropical & Subtropical Fishery Resource Application & Cultivation of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Pearl River Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Guangzhou, China.,Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yanyan Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Tropical & Subtropical Fishery Resource Application & Cultivation of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Pearl River Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yakun Wang
- Key Laboratory of Tropical & Subtropical Fishery Resource Application & Cultivation of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Pearl River Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wei Li
- Key Laboratory of Tropical & Subtropical Fishery Resource Application & Cultivation of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Pearl River Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoyou Hong
- Key Laboratory of Tropical & Subtropical Fishery Resource Application & Cultivation of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Pearl River Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lingyun Yu
- Key Laboratory of Tropical & Subtropical Fishery Resource Application & Cultivation of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Pearl River Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chen Chen
- Key Laboratory of Tropical & Subtropical Fishery Resource Application & Cultivation of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Pearl River Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hongyan Xu
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development, Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Aquatic Sciences of Chongqing, College of Fisheries, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xinping Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Tropical & Subtropical Fishery Resource Application & Cultivation of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Pearl River Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Guangzhou, China.,Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, China
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The inhibition of WIP1 phosphatase accelerates the depletion of primordial follicles. Reprod Biomed Online 2021; 43:161-171. [PMID: 34210610 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2021.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Revised: 04/04/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION What role does wild-type p53-induced phosphatase 1 (WIP1) play in the regulation of primordial follicle development? DESIGN WIP1 expression was detected in the ovaries of mice of different ages by western blotting and immunohistochemical staining. Three-day-old neonatal mouse ovaries were cultured in vitro with or without the WIP1 inhibitor GSK2830371 (10 μM) for 4 days. Ovarian morphology, follicle growth and follicle classification were analysed and the PI3K-AKT-mTOR signal pathway and the WIP1-p53-related mitochondrial apoptosis pathway evaluated. RESULTS WIP1 expression was downregulated with age. Primordial follicles were significantly decreased in the GSK2830371-treated group, without a significant increase in growing follicles. The ratio of growing follicles to primordial follicles was not significantly different between the control and GSK2830371 groups, and no significant variation was observed in the PI3K-AKT-mTOR signal pathway. The inhibition of WIP1 phosphatase accelerated primordial follicle atresia by activating the p53-BAX-caspase-3 pathway. CONCLUSIONS These findings reveal that WIP1 participates in regulating primordial follicle development and that inhibiting WIP1 phosphatase leads to massive primordial follicle loss via interaction with the p53-BAX-caspase-3 pathway. This might also provide valuable information for understanding decreased ovarian reserve during ovarian ageing.
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Mao GP, Niu MH, Cui YH, Tang RL, Chen W, Liu B, He Z. Characterization, isolation, and culture of spermatogonial stem cells in Macaca fascicularis. Asian J Androl 2021; 23:240-248. [PMID: 33533740 PMCID: PMC8152426 DOI: 10.4103/aja.aja_95_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2019] [Accepted: 12/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) have great applications in both reproductive and regenerative medicine. Primates including monkeys are very similar to humans with regard to physiology and pathology. Nevertheless, little is known about the isolation, the characteristics, and the culture of primate SSCs. This study was designed to identify, isolate, and culture monkey SSCs. Immunocytochemistry was used to identify markers for monkey SSCs. Glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor family receptor alpha-1 (GFRA1)-enriched spermatogonia were isolated from monkeys, namely Macaca fascicularis (M. fascicularis), by two-step enzymatic digestion and magnetic-activated cell sorting, and they were cultured on precoated plates in the conditioned medium. Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), immunocytochemistry, and RNA sequencing were used to compare phenotype and transcriptomes in GFRA1-enriched spermatogonia between 0 day and 14 days of culture, and xenotransplantation was performed to evaluate the function of GFRA1-enriched spermatogonia. SSCs shared some phenotypes with rodent and human SSCs. GFRA1-enriched spermatogonia with high purity and viability were isolated from M. fascicularis testes. The freshly isolated cells expressed numerous markers for rodent SSCs, and they were cultured for 14 days. The expression of numerous SSC markers was maintained during the cultivation of GFRA1-enriched spermatogonia. RNA sequencing reflected a 97.3% similarity in global gene profiles between 0 day and 14 days of culture. The xenotransplantation assay indicated that the GFRA1-enriched spermatogonia formed colonies and proliferated in vivo in the recipient c-KitW/W (W) mutant mice. Collectively, GFRA1-enriched spermatogonia are monkey SSCs phenotypically both in vitro and in vivo. This study suggests that monkey might provide an alternative to human SSCs for basic research and application in human diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guo-Ping Mao
- Renji-Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200127, China
- The International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200030, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Ming-Hui Niu
- Renji-Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200127, China
| | - Ying-Hong Cui
- The Key Laboratory of Model Animals and Stem Cell Biology in Hunan Province, Hunan Normal University School of Medicine, Changsha 410013, China
| | - Rui-Ling Tang
- The Key Laboratory of Model Animals and Stem Cell Biology in Hunan Province, Hunan Normal University School of Medicine, Changsha 410013, China
| | - Wei Chen
- The Key Laboratory of Model Animals and Stem Cell Biology in Hunan Province, Hunan Normal University School of Medicine, Changsha 410013, China
| | - Bang Liu
- The Key Laboratory of Model Animals and Stem Cell Biology in Hunan Province, Hunan Normal University School of Medicine, Changsha 410013, China
| | - Zuping He
- The Key Laboratory of Model Animals and Stem Cell Biology in Hunan Province, Hunan Normal University School of Medicine, Changsha 410013, China
- Renji-Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200127, China
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43
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Garcia MS, Orcini WA, Peruquetti RL, Perobelli JE. New approach for reproductive toxicity assessment: chromatoid bodies as a target for methylmercury and polychlorinated biphenyls in prepubertal male rats. Reprod Fertil Dev 2021; 32:914-922. [PMID: 32586421 DOI: 10.1071/rd19447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2019] [Accepted: 05/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
This study investigated the reproductive toxicity of methylmercury (MeHg) and Aroclor (Sigma-Aldrich), alone or in combination, following exposure of prepubertal male rats considering the chromatoid body (CB) as a potential target. The CB is an important molecular regulator of mammalian spermatogenesis, primarily during spermatid cytodifferentiation. Male Wistar rats were exposed to MeHg and/or Aroclor , according the following experimental design: control group, which was administered in corn oil (vehicle) only; MeHg-treated group, which was administered 0.5mg kg-1 day-1 MeHg; Aroclor-treated group, which was administered 1mg kg-1 day-1 Aroclor; Mix-LD, group which was administered a low-dose mixture of MeHg (0.05mg kg-1 day-1) and Aroclor (0.1mg kg-1 day-1); and Mix-HD group, which was administered a high-dose mixture of MeHg (0.5mg kg-1 day-1) and Aroclor (1.0mg kg-1 day-1). MeHg was diluted in distilled water and Aroclor was made up in corn oil (volume 1mL kg-1). Rats were administered the different treatments from PND23 to PND53 by gavage, . The morphophysiology of CBs was analysed, together with aspects of steroid hormones status and regulation, just after the last treatment on PND53. In addition, the long-term effects on sperm parameters were assessed in adult animals. MeHg exposure increased mouse VASA homologue (MVH) protein levels in seminiferous tubules, possibly affecting the epigenetic status of germ cells. Aroclor produced morphological changes to CB assembly, which may explain the observed morphological defects to the sperm flagellum and the consequent decrease in sperm motility. There were no clear additive or synergistic effects between MeHg and Aroclor when administered in combination. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that MeHg and Aroclor have independent deleterious effects on the developing testis, causing molecular and morphological changes in CBs. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to show that CBs are targets for toxic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- M S Garcia
- School of Health Sciences, Sagrado Coração University, Rua Irmã Arminda, 10-50, Jd., Brasil, 17011-160, Bauru, São Paulo, Brazil; and Experimental Toxicology Laboratory, Department of Marine Sciences, Federal University of São Paulo, Campus Baixada Santista, Rua Dr Carvalho de Mendonça, 144, Encruzilhada, 11070-102 Santos, SP, Brazil
| | - W A Orcini
- Molecular Biology and Cytogenetics Laboratory, Sagrado Coração University, Rua Irmã Arminda, 10-50, Jd., Brasil, 17011-160, Bauru, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - R L Peruquetti
- School of Health Sciences, Sagrado Coração University, Rua Irmã Arminda, 10-50, Jd., Brasil, 17011-160, Bauru, São Paulo, Brazil; and Molecular Biology and Cytogenetics Laboratory, Sagrado Coração University, Rua Irmã Arminda, 10-50, Jd., Brasil, 17011-160, Bauru, São Paulo, Brazil; and Office of the Associate Dean of Graduate Studies and Research, Sagrado Coração University, Rua Irmã Arminda, 10-50, Jd., Brasil, 17011-160, Bauru, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - J E Perobelli
- Experimental Toxicology Laboratory, Department of Marine Sciences, Federal University of São Paulo, Campus Baixada Santista, Rua Dr Carvalho de Mendonça, 144, Encruzilhada, 11070-102 Santos, SP, Brazil; and Corresponding author.
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44
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Wang X, Wen Y, Zhang J, Swanson G, Guo S, Cao C, Krawetz SA, Zhang Z, Yuan S. MFN2 interacts with nuage-associated proteins and is essential for male germ cell development by controlling mRNA fate during spermatogenesis. Development 2021; 148:dev.196295. [PMID: 33674260 DOI: 10.1242/dev.196295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2020] [Accepted: 02/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Mitochondria play a crucial role in spermatogenesis and are regulated by several mitochondrial fusion proteins. However, their functional importance associated with their structure formation and mRNA fate regulation during spermatogenesis remains unclear. Here, we show that mitofusin 2 (MFN2), a mitochondrial fusion protein, interacts with nuage-associated proteins (including MIWI, DDX4, TDRKH and GASZ) in mice. Conditional mutation of Mfn2 in postnatal germ cells results in male sterility due to germ cell developmental defects. Moreover, MFN2 interacts with MFN1, another mitochondrial fusion protein with a high-sequence similarity to MFN2, in testes to facilitate spermatogenesis. Simultaneous mutation of Mfn1 and Mfn2 in testes causes very severe infertile phenotypes. Importantly, we show that MFN2 is enriched in polysome fractions of testes and interacts with MSY2, a germ cell-specific DNA/RNA-binding protein, to control gamete-specific mRNA (such as Spata19) translational activity during spermatogenesis. Collectively, our findings demonstrate that MFN2 interacts with nuage-associated proteins and MSY2 to regulate male germ cell development by controlling several gamete-specific mRNA fates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoli Wang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
| | - Yujiao Wen
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
| | - Jin Zhang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
| | - Grace Swanson
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48201, USA
| | - Shuangshuang Guo
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
| | - Congcong Cao
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
| | - Stephen A Krawetz
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48201, USA
| | - Zhibing Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48201, USA.,Department of Physiology, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48201, USA
| | - Shuiqiao Yuan
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China.,Shenzhen Huazhong University of Science and Technology Research Institute, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518057, China
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45
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Tanaka K, Hayashi Y, Takehara A, Ito-Matsuoka Y, Tachibana M, Yaegashi N, Matsui Y. Abnormal early folliculogenesis due to impeded pyruvate metabolism in mouse oocytes†. Biol Reprod 2021; 105:64-75. [PMID: 33824958 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioab064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2020] [Revised: 03/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Fetal ovarian germ cells show characteristic energy metabolism status, such as enhanced mitochondrial metabolism as well as glycolysis, but their roles in early folliculogenesis are unclear. We show here that inhibition of pyruvate uptake to mitochondria by UK5099 in organ cultures of fetal mouse ovaries resulted in repressed early folliculogenesis without affecting energy production, survival of oocytes, or meiosis. In addition, the abnormal folliculogenesis by UK5099 was partially rescued by α-ketoglutarate and succinate, intermediate metabolites in the TCA cycle, suggesting the importance of those metabolites. The expression of TGFβ-related genes Gdf9 and Bmp15 in ovarian germ cells, which are crucial for folliculogenesis, was downregulated by UK5099, and the addition of recombinant GDF9 partially rescued the abnormal folliculogenesis induced by UK5099. We also found that early folliculogenesis was similarly repressed, as in the culture, in the ovaries of a germ cell-specific knockout of Mpc2, which encodes a mitochondria pyruvate carrier that is targeted by UK5099. These results suggest that insufficient Gdf9 expression induced by abnormal pyruvate metabolism in oocytes results in early follicular dysgenesis, which is a possible cause of defective folliculogenesis in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keiko Tanaka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan.,Cell Resource Center for Biomedical Research, Institute of Development, Aging and Cancer (IDAC), Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
| | - Yohei Hayashi
- Cell Resource Center for Biomedical Research, Institute of Development, Aging and Cancer (IDAC), Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan.,Graduate School of Life Sciences, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan.,Graduate School of Medicine, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
| | - Asuka Takehara
- Cell Resource Center for Biomedical Research, Institute of Development, Aging and Cancer (IDAC), Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
| | - Yumi Ito-Matsuoka
- Cell Resource Center for Biomedical Research, Institute of Development, Aging and Cancer (IDAC), Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
| | - Masahito Tachibana
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
| | - Nobuo Yaegashi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
| | - Yasuhisa Matsui
- Cell Resource Center for Biomedical Research, Institute of Development, Aging and Cancer (IDAC), Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan.,Graduate School of Life Sciences, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan.,Graduate School of Medicine, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
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46
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Ruthig VA, Yokonishi T, Friedersdorf MB, Batchvarova S, Hardy J, Garness JA, Keene JD, Capel B. A transgenic DND1GFP fusion allele reports in vivo expression and RNA-binding targets in undifferentiated mouse germ cells†. Biol Reprod 2021; 104:861-874. [PMID: 33394034 PMCID: PMC8324984 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioaa233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2020] [Revised: 11/23/2020] [Accepted: 12/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
In vertebrates, the RNA-binding protein (RBP) dead end 1 (DND1) is essential for primordial germ cell (PGC) survival and maintenance of cell identity. In multiple species, Dnd1 loss or mutation leads to severe PGC loss soon after specification or, in some species, germ cell transformation to somatic lineages. Our investigations into the role of DND1 in PGC specification and differentiation have been limited by the absence of an available antibody. To address this problem, we used CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing to establish a transgenic mouse line carrying a DND1GFP fusion allele. We present imaging analysis of DND1GFP expression showing that DND1GFP expression is heterogeneous among male germ cells (MGCs) and female germ cells (FGCs). DND1GFP was detected in MGCs throughout fetal life but lost from FGCs at meiotic entry. In postnatal and adult testes, DND1GFP expression correlated with classic markers for the premeiotic spermatogonial population. Utilizing the GFP tag for RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) analysis in MGCs validated this transgenic as a tool for identifying in vivo transcript targets of DND1. The DND1GFP mouse line is a novel tool for isolation and analysis of embryonic and fetal germ cells, and the spermatogonial population of the postnatal and adult testis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victor A Ruthig
- Department of Cell Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | | | - Matthew B Friedersdorf
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Sofia Batchvarova
- Department of Cell Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Josiah Hardy
- Department of Cell Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Jason A Garness
- Department of Cell Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Jack D Keene
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Blanche Capel
- Department of Cell Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
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47
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Yoshimatsu S, Murakami R, Sato T, Saeki T, Yamamoto M, Sasaki E, Noce T, Okano H. Generation of a common marmoset embryonic stem cell line CMES40-OC harboring a POU5F1 (OCT4)-2A-mCerulean3 knock-in reporter allele. Stem Cell Res 2021; 53:102308. [PMID: 33799281 DOI: 10.1016/j.scr.2021.102308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2021] [Revised: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
POU class 5 homeobox 1 (POU5F1, also known as OCT4) is critical for maintenance of pluripotency, germ cell fate, reprogramming into a pluripotent state, and early embryogenesis. We generated an embryonic stem cell (ESC) line of the common marmoset (Callithrix jacchus) harboring a heterozygous knock-in allele of OCT4-P2A-mCerulean-T2A-pac. The ESC line (CMES40-OC) will be valuable for investigation of primed/naïve pluripotency and germ cell fate. Homozygous OCT4 knock-in clones were generated but could not be sustained in an undifferentiated state in long-term culture. The OCT4 knock-in system facilitated simultaneous knock-in of a reporter construct at another locus, DDX4 (VASA).
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Affiliation(s)
- Sho Yoshimatsu
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Keio University, Tokyo, Japan; Laboratory for Marmoset Neural Architecture, RIKEN Center for Brain Science, Saitama, Japan
| | - Rei Murakami
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Keio University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tsukika Sato
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Keio University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tsubasa Saeki
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Keio University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masafumi Yamamoto
- ICLAS Monitoring Center, Central Institute for Experimental Animals, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Erika Sasaki
- Department of Marmoset Biology and Medicine, Central Institute for Experimental Animals, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Toshiaki Noce
- Laboratory for Marmoset Neural Architecture, RIKEN Center for Brain Science, Saitama, Japan
| | - Hideyuki Okano
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Keio University, Tokyo, Japan; Laboratory for Marmoset Neural Architecture, RIKEN Center for Brain Science, Saitama, Japan
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48
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Imarazene B, Beille S, Jouanno E, Branthonne A, Thermes V, Thomas M, Herpin A, Rétaux S, Guiguen Y. Primordial Germ Cell Migration and Histological and Molecular Characterization of Gonadal Differentiation in Pachón Cavefish Astyanax mexicanus. Sex Dev 2021; 14:80-98. [PMID: 33691331 DOI: 10.1159/000513378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Accepted: 09/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The genetic regulatory network governing vertebrate gonadal differentiation appears less conserved than previously thought. Here, we investigated the gonadal development of Astyanax mexicanus Pachón cavefish by looking at primordial germ cells (PGCs) migration and proliferation, gonad histology, and gene expression patterns. We showed that PGCs are first detected at the 80% epiboly stage and then reach the gonadal primordium at 1 day post-fertilization (dpf). However, in contrast to the generally described absence of PGCs proliferation during their migration phase, PGCs number in cavefish doubles between early neurula and 8-9 somites stages. Combining both gonadal histology and vasa (germ cell marker) expression patterns, we observed that ovarian and testicular differentiation occurs around 65 dpf in females and 90 dpf in males, respectively, with an important inter-individual variability. The expression patterns of dmrt1, gsdf, and amh revealed a conserved predominant male expression during cavefish gonadal development, but none of the ovarian differentiation genes, i. e., foxl2a, cyp19a1a, and wnt4b displayed an early sexually dimorphic expression, and surprisingly all these genes exhibited predominant expression in adult testes. Altogether, our results lay the foundation for further research on sex determination and differentiation in A. mexicanus and contribute to the emerging picture that the vertebrate sex differentiation downstream regulatory network is less conserved than previously thought, at least in teleost fishes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boudjema Imarazene
- INRAE, Laboratoire de Physiologie et Génomique des poissons, Rennes, France.,Université Paris-Saclay, CNRS, Institut des Neurosciences Paris-Saclay, Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Séverine Beille
- INRAE, Laboratoire de Physiologie et Génomique des poissons, Rennes, France
| | - Elodie Jouanno
- INRAE, Laboratoire de Physiologie et Génomique des poissons, Rennes, France
| | - Adéle Branthonne
- INRAE, Laboratoire de Physiologie et Génomique des poissons, Rennes, France
| | - Violette Thermes
- INRAE, Laboratoire de Physiologie et Génomique des poissons, Rennes, France
| | - Manon Thomas
- INRAE, Laboratoire de Physiologie et Génomique des poissons, Rennes, France
| | - Amaury Herpin
- INRAE, Laboratoire de Physiologie et Génomique des poissons, Rennes, France
| | - Sylvie Rétaux
- Université Paris-Saclay, CNRS, Institut des Neurosciences Paris-Saclay, Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Yann Guiguen
- INRAE, Laboratoire de Physiologie et Génomique des poissons, Rennes, France,
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49
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Chang WF, Peng M, Hsu J, Xu J, Cho HC, Hsieh-Li HM, Liu JL, Lu CH, Sung LY. Effects of Survival Motor Neuron Protein on Germ Cell Development in Mouse and Human. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22020661. [PMID: 33440839 PMCID: PMC7827477 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22020661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Revised: 12/29/2020] [Accepted: 01/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Survival motor neuron (SMN) is ubiquitously expressed in many cell types and its encoding gene, survival motor neuron 1 gene (SMN1), is highly conserved in various species. SMN is involved in the assembly of RNA spliceosomes, which are important for pre-mRNA splicing. A severe neurogenic disease, spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), is caused by the loss or mutation of SMN1 that specifically occurred in humans. We previously reported that SMN plays roles in stem cell biology in addition to its roles in neuron development. In this study, we investigated whether SMN can improve the propagation of spermatogonia stem cells (SSCs) and facilitate the spermatogenesis process. In in vitro culture, SSCs obtained from SMA model mice showed decreased growth rate accompanied by significantly reduced expression of spermatogonia marker promyelocytic leukemia zinc finger (PLZF) compared to those from heterozygous and wild-type littermates; whereas SMN overexpressed SSCs showed enhanced cell proliferation and improved potency. In vivo, the superior ability of homing and complete performance in differentiating progeny was shown in SMN overexpressed SSCs in host seminiferous tubule of transplant experiments compared to control groups. To gain insights into the roles of SMN in clinical infertility, we derived human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) from azoospermia patients (AZ-hiPSCs) and from healthy control (ct-hiPSCs). Despite the otherwise comparable levels of hallmark iPCS markers, lower expression level of SMN1 was found in AZ-hiPSCs compared with control hiPSCs during in vitro primordial germ cell like cells (PGCLCs) differentiation. On the other hand, overexpressing hSMN1 in AZ-hiPSCs led to increased level of pluripotent markers such as OCT4 and KLF4 during PGCLC differentiation. Our work reveal novel roles of SMN in mammalian spermatogenesis and suggest new therapeutic targets for azoospermia treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Fang Chang
- Institute of Biotechnology, National Taiwan University, Taipei 106, Taiwan; (W.-F.C.); (M.P.); (J.H.)
| | - Min Peng
- Institute of Biotechnology, National Taiwan University, Taipei 106, Taiwan; (W.-F.C.); (M.P.); (J.H.)
| | - Jing Hsu
- Institute of Biotechnology, National Taiwan University, Taipei 106, Taiwan; (W.-F.C.); (M.P.); (J.H.)
| | - Jie Xu
- Center for Advanced Models for Translational Sciences and Therapeutics, University of Michigan Medical Center, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA;
| | - Huan-Chieh Cho
- Animal Resource Center, National Taiwan University, Taipei 106, Taiwan;
| | - Hsiu-Mei Hsieh-Li
- Department of Life Science, National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei 116, Taiwan;
| | - Ji-Long Liu
- MRC Functional Genomics Unit, Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3PT, UK;
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Chung-Hao Lu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Mackay Memorial Hospital, Taipei 105, Taiwan
- Correspondence: (C.-H.L.); (L.-Y.S.)
| | - Li-Ying Sung
- Institute of Biotechnology, National Taiwan University, Taipei 106, Taiwan; (W.-F.C.); (M.P.); (J.H.)
- Animal Resource Center, National Taiwan University, Taipei 106, Taiwan;
- Agricultural Biotechnology Research Center, Academia Sinica, Taipei 115, Taiwan
- Correspondence: (C.-H.L.); (L.-Y.S.)
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50
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Expression profile of spermatogenesis associated genes in male germ cells during postnatal development in mice. JOURNAL OF ANIMAL REPRODUCTION AND BIOTECHNOLOGY 2020. [DOI: 10.12750/jarb.35.4.289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
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