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Li Y, Chen Y, Wu W, Li N, Hua J. MMPs, ADAMs and ADAMTSs are associated with mammalian sperm fate. Theriogenology 2023; 200:147-154. [PMID: 36842259 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.02.013] [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: 08/29/2022] [Revised: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 02/12/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023]
Abstract
Metalloproteinases include matrix metalloproteinases and disintegrin metalloproteinases. They are important members of the ECM degradation and reconstruction process and are associated with tissue development and disease. The ECM is a three-dimensional network of large molecules consisting of a variety of proteins. It is a physical scaffold for organs, and all types of cells can be found within the ECM. The testicle, where sperm are produced, is an organ that is constantly in dynamic flux. Metalloproteinases can regulate testicular tissue development and the maturation of sperm by affecting the ECM. Metalloproteinase disorders can lead to cryptorchidism, azoospermia, poor semen quality and other diseases. As a member of the metalloproteinase family, ADAMTS plays an important role in testicular slippage to the scrotum. ADAM is involved in the fertilization process, and excessive MMP can damage the BTB. In the testis, metalloproteinase stability represents the stability of the extracellular microenvironment in which germ cells are located and is associated with reproductive function. Metalloproteinases have a definite relationship with male reproduction, but the underlying mechanism is still unclear. This paper summarizes the literature on various metalloproteinases in testicular tissue physiology and pathology to elucidate their role in reproductive function and male reproductive mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunxiang Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine/Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Northwest Agriculture & Forestry University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China; Key Laboratory of Livestock Biology, Northwest A&F University, 712100, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yuguang Chen
- College of Veterinary Medicine/Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Northwest Agriculture & Forestry University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China; Key Laboratory of Livestock Biology, Northwest A&F University, 712100, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Wenping Wu
- College of Veterinary Medicine/Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Northwest Agriculture & Forestry University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China; Key Laboratory of Livestock Biology, Northwest A&F University, 712100, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Na Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine/Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Northwest Agriculture & Forestry University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China; Key Laboratory of Livestock Biology, Northwest A&F University, 712100, Yangling, Shaanxi, China.
| | - Jinlian Hua
- College of Veterinary Medicine/Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Northwest Agriculture & Forestry University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China; Key Laboratory of Livestock Biology, Northwest A&F University, 712100, Yangling, Shaanxi, China.
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2
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Takada M, Fukuhara D, Takiura T, Nishibori Y, Kotani M, Kiuchi Z, Kudo A, Beltcheva O, Ito-Nitta N, Nitta KR, Kimura T, Suehiro JI, Katada T, Takematsu H, Yan K. Involvement of GLCCI1 in mouse spermatogenesis. FASEB J 2023; 37:e22680. [PMID: 36468710 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202101667rr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2021] [Revised: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Spermatid production is a complex regulatory process in which coordination between hormonal control and apoptosis plays a pivotal role in maintaining a balanced number of sperm cells. Apoptosis in spermatogenesis is controlled by pro-apoptotic and anti-apoptotic molecules. Hormones involved in the apoptotic process during spermatogenesis include gonadotrophins, sex hormones, and glucocorticoid (GC). GC acts broadly as an apoptosis inducer by binding to its receptor (glucocorticoid receptor: GR) during organ development processes, such as spermatogenesis. However, the downstream pathway induced in GC-GR signaling and the apoptotic process during spermatogenesis remains poorly understood. We reported previously that GC induces full-length glucocorticoid-induced transcript 1 (GLCCI1-long), which functions as an anti-apoptotic mediator in thymic T cell development. Here, we demonstrate that mature murine testis expresses a novel isoform of GLCCI1 protein (GLCCI1-short) in addition to GLCCI1-long. We demonstrate that GLCCI1-long is expressed in spermatocytes along with GR. In contrast, GLCCI1-short is primarily expressed in spermatids where GR is absent; instead, the estrogen receptor is expressed. GLCCI1-short also binds to LC8, which is a known mediator of the anti-apoptotic effect of GLCCI1-long. A luciferase reporter assay revealed that β-estradiol treatment synergistically increased Glcci1-short promotor-driven luciferase activity in Erα-overexpressing cells. Together with the evidence that the conversion of testosterone to estrogen is preceded by aromatase expression in spermatids, we hypothesize that estrogen induces GLCCI1-short, which, in turn, may function as a novel anti-apoptotic mediator in mature murine testis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masaru Takada
- Department of Pediatrics, Kyorin University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Daisuke Fukuhara
- Department of Pediatrics, Kyorin University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Toshihiko Takiura
- Department of Pediatrics, Kyorin University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yukino Nishibori
- Department of Pediatrics, Kyorin University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masashi Kotani
- Department of Pediatrics, Kyorin University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Zentaro Kiuchi
- Department of Pediatrics, Kyorin University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Akihiko Kudo
- Department of Microscopic Anatomy, Kyorin University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Olga Beltcheva
- Molecular Medicine Center and Department of Medical Chemistry and Biochemistry, Medical University of Sofia, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Noriko Ito-Nitta
- Department of Pediatrics, Kyorin University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kazuhiro R Nitta
- Diagnostics and Therapeutics of Intractable Diseases, Intractable Disease Research Center, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Toru Kimura
- Department of Toxicology and Pharmacology, Kyorin University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Jun-Ichi Suehiro
- Department of Toxicology and Pharmacology, Kyorin University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tomohisa Katada
- Department of Toxicology and Pharmacology, Kyorin University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiromu Takematsu
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Faculty of Medical Technology, Graduate School of Health Sciences, Fujita Health University, Toyoake, Japan
| | - Kunimasa Yan
- Department of Pediatrics, Kyorin University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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The Mechanism and Experimental Validation of Forsythoside A in the Treatment of Male Infertility Were Analyzed Based on Network Pharmacology and Molecular Docking. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2022; 2022:7723358. [PMID: 36248414 PMCID: PMC9560825 DOI: 10.1155/2022/7723358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2022] [Revised: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Chinese medicine extracts are currently the hotspot of new drug research and development. Herein, we report the mechanism of action of the traditional Chinese medicine extract Forsythiaside A in the treatment of male infertility and experimental verification. We first obtained 95 intersection genes between the target protein of Forsythiaside A and the target genes of male infertility and screened 13 key genes. In molecular docking, Forsythiaside A can each have a higher total docking score with 12 key genes and have a better combination. These 95 intersection genes are mainly related to biological processes such as response to peptide hormone, response to oxidative stress, and participation in the oxidative stress of the forkhead box O (FoxO) signaling pathway. Therefore, we use ornidazole to induce an experimental model of oligoasthenospermia in rats and use different concentrations of Forsythiaside A to intervene. We proved that the semen quality and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities of model group rats were significantly lower than those of the blank group, and semen quality and SOD activities of the low-dose group and high-dose group were significantly higher than those of the model group. The malondialdehyde (MDA) level of model group rats was significantly higher than that of blank group, while the MDA levels of the low-dose group and high-dose group were significantly lower than that of the model group. Forsythoside A is a potential drug substance for male infertility and improves the semen quality, MDA levels, and SOD activities of rats with oligoasthenospermia.
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Lu V, Svensjö O, Axelsson J. The association between serum estradiol levels and sperm DNA integrity. ENVIRONMENTAL AND MOLECULAR MUTAGENESIS 2022; 63:268-274. [PMID: 36054299 PMCID: PMC9804797 DOI: 10.1002/em.22500] [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: 02/16/2022] [Revised: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/14/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
In men from the general population, BMI has been associated with a lower sperm DNA fragmentation index (DFI). We wondered whether this could be due to estradiol, which is associated with BMI and reported important for sperm function. Our objective was to investigate the association between estradiol and DFI. In 2008-2010, we recruited 284 young men from the general population to deliver samples of semen and blood and answer questionnaires. Serum concentrations of reproductive hormones and DFI were analyzed, the latter using the Sperm Chromatin Structure Assay. Associations were studied using general linear models. The first model utilized metric values of estradiol, whereas the second model compared men with high and low levels, dichotomized by the median value. A possible interaction between estradiol and testosterone was also examined. When investigating metric estradiol levels and DFI, an inverse association was seen without adjustments (p = .02), but the statistical significance was lost at adjustments for potential confounders (p = .08). Men with lower estradiol levels (<88 pmol/L, mean 71 pmol/L) had a statistically significantly higher DFI than men with higher levels of estradiol (≥88 pmol/L, mean 110 pmol/L). Mean ratio difference was 1.21 (p = .002) without adjustments and 1.18 (p = .01) with adjustments. A statistically significant difference in DFI was observed in men with testosterone levels below median when comparing high and low estradiol (p < .001). This study supports the idea that serum estradiol levels are protective for sperm DNA integrity, at least at lower testosterone levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viktor Lu
- Reproductive Medicine CentreSkåne University HospitalMalmöSweden
| | - Oscar Svensjö
- Reproductive Medicine CentreSkåne University HospitalMalmöSweden
| | - Jonatan Axelsson
- Reproductive Medicine CentreSkåne University HospitalMalmöSweden
- Reproductive Medicine, Department of Translational MedicineLund UniversityMalmöSweden
- EPI@LUND, Department of Laboratory MedicineLund UniversityLundSweden
- Department of BiologyUniversity of OttawaOttawaCanada
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Jafari A, Mokhtari G, Madani A, Leyli E. Sildenafil citrate effects on seminal parameters in male participants with idiopathic infertility; A randomized, double-blind, controlled cross-over clinical trial study. UROLOGICAL SCIENCE 2022. [DOI: 10.4103/uros.uros_113_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
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de Santi F, Beltrame FL, Rodrigues BM, Scaramele NF, Lopes FL, Cerri PS, Sasso-Cerri E. Venlafaxine-induced adrenergic signaling stimulates Leydig cells steroidogenesis via Nur77 overexpression: a possible role of EGF. Life Sci 2021; 289:120069. [PMID: 34688693 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2021.120069] [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: 08/10/2021] [Revised: 10/14/2021] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Venlafaxine, a norepinephrine and serotonin reuptake inhibitor, impairs rat sperm parameters, spermatogenesis and causes high intratesticular estrogen and testosterone levels, indicating that Leydig cells (LCs) may be a venlafaxine target. We evaluated the effect of venlafaxine treatment on LCs in vivo, focusing on adrenergic signaling, EGF immunoexpression and steroidogenesis. Germ cells mitotic/meiotic activity and UCHL1 levels were also evaluated in the seminiferous epithelium. Adult male rats received venlafaxine (30 mg/kg) or distilled water. In testicular sections, the seminiferous tubules, epithelium and the LCs nuclear areas were measured, and the immunoexpression of Ki-67, UCHL1, StAR, EGF, c-Kit and 17β-HSD was evaluated. UCHL1, StAR and EGF protein levels and Adra1a, Nur77 and Ndrg2 expression were analyzed. MDA and nitrite testicular levels, and serum estrogen and testosterone levels were measured. Venlafaxine induced LCs hypertrophy and Ndrg2 upregulation, in parallel to increased number of Ki-67, c-Kit- and 17β-HSD-positive interstitial cells, indicating that this antidepressant stimulates LCs lineage proliferation and differentiation. Upregulation of Adra1a and Nur77 could explain the high levels of StAR and testosterone levels, as well as aromatization. Enhanced EGF immunoexpresion in LCs suggests that this growth fact is involved in adrenergically-induced steroidogenesis, likely via upregulation of Nur77. Slight tubular atrophy and weak Ki-67 immunoexpression in germ cells, in association with high UCHL1 levels, indicate that spermatogenesis is likely impaired by this enzyme under supraphysiological estrogen levels. These data corroborate the unchanged MDA and nitrite levels. Therefore, venlafaxine stimulates LCs steroidogenesis via adrenergic signaling, and EGF may be involved in this process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabiane de Santi
- Federal University of São Paulo, Department of Morphology and Genetics, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Flávia L Beltrame
- Federal University of São Paulo, Department of Morphology and Genetics, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Beatriz M Rodrigues
- São Paulo State University (Unesp), School of Dentistry, Department of Morphology, Genetics, Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry, Araraquara, Brazil
| | - Natália F Scaramele
- São Paulo State University (Unesp), School of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Production and Animal Health, Araçatuba, Brazil
| | - Flávia L Lopes
- São Paulo State University (Unesp), School of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Production and Animal Health, Araçatuba, Brazil
| | - Paulo S Cerri
- São Paulo State University (Unesp), School of Dentistry, Department of Morphology, Genetics, Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry, Araraquara, Brazil
| | - Estela Sasso-Cerri
- São Paulo State University (Unesp), School of Dentistry, Department of Morphology, Genetics, Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry, Araraquara, Brazil.
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Li Y, Chen H, Liao J, Chen K, Javed MT, Qiao N, Zeng Q, Liu B, Yi J, Tang Z, Li Y. Long-term copper exposure promotes apoptosis and autophagy by inducing oxidative stress in pig testis. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 28:55140-55153. [PMID: 34128171 PMCID: PMC8203493 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-021-14853-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Copper (Cu) is a heavy metal which is being used widely in the industry and agriculture. However, the overuse of Cu makes it a common environmental pollutant. In order to investigate the testicular toxicity of Cu, the pigs were divided into three groups and were given Cu at 10 (control), 125, and 250 mg/kg body weight, respectively. The feeding period was 80 days. Serum hormone results showed that Cu exposure decreased the concentrations of follicular stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) and increased the concentration of thyroxine (T4). Meanwhile, Cu exposure upregulated the expression of Cu transporter mRNA (Slc31a1, ATP7A, and ATP7B) in the testis, leading to increase in testicular Cu and led to spermatogenesis disorder. The Cu exposure led to an increased expression of antioxidant-related mRNA (Gpx4, TRX, HO-1, SOD1, SOD2, SOD3, CAT), along with increase in the MDA concentration in the testis. In LG group, the ROS in the testis was significantly increased. Furthermore, the apoptotic-related mRNA (Caspase3, Caspase8, Caspase9, Bax, Cytc, Bak1, APAF1, p53) and protein (Active Caspase3) and the autophagy-related mRNA (Beclin1, ATG5, LC3, and LC3B) expression increased after Cu exposure. The mitochondrial membrane potential in the testicular tissue decreased, while the number of apoptotic cells increased, as a result of oxidative stress. Overall, our study indicated that the Cu exposure promotes testicular apoptosis and autophagy by mediating oxidative stress, which is considered as the key mechanism causing testicular degeneration as well as dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanliang Li
- College of Veterinary, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, China
| | - Hanming Chen
- College of Veterinary, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, China
| | - Jianzhao Liao
- College of Veterinary, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, China
| | - Keli Chen
- College of Veterinary, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, China
| | - Muhammad Tariq Javed
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, 38040, Pakistan
| | - Na Qiao
- College of Veterinary, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, China
| | - Qiwen Zeng
- College of Veterinary, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, China
| | - Bingxian Liu
- College of Veterinary, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, China
| | - Jiangnan Yi
- College of Veterinary, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, China
| | - Zhaoxin Tang
- College of Veterinary, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, China
| | - Ying Li
- College of Veterinary, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, China.
- Key Laboratory of Animal Vaccine Development, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Guangzhou, 510642, China.
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Luo H, Huang Y, Han M, Pang Y, Yu P, Tang Y, Yuan H, Li J, Chen W. Associations of serum estradiol level, serum estrogen receptor-alpha level, and estrogen receptor-alpha polymorphism with male infertility: A retrospective study. Medicine (Baltimore) 2021; 100:e26577. [PMID: 34398012 PMCID: PMC8294872 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000026577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2021] [Accepted: 06/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Estradiol regulates spermatogenesis partly via estrogen receptor-alpha (ESRα). This study aimed to analyze the associations of serum estradiol level, serum ESRα level, and ESRα gene polymorphisms with sperm quality.This retrospective study included infertile men attending the Reproductive Center, Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, and a control group without a history of fertility (October, 2016 to March, 2017). Data regarding sperm quality, serum levels of estradiol and ESRα, and rs2234693C/T genotype were extracted from the medical records. Pearson/Spearman correlations (as appropriate) between estradiol level, ESRα level, and sperm quality parameters were evaluated.The analysis included 215 men with infertility and 83 healthy controls. The infertile group had higher serum levels of estradiol (147.57 ± 35.3 vs 129.62 ± 49.11 pg/mL, P < .05) and ESRα (3.02 ± 2.62 vs 1.33 ± 0.56 pg/mL, P < .05) than the control group. For the infertile group, serum estradiol level was negatively correlated with sperm concentration, percentage of progressively motile sperm, and percentage of sperm with normal morphology (r = 0.309, 0.211, and 0.246, respectively; all P < .05). Serum estradiol and ESRα levels were lower in infertile men with normozoospermia than in those with azoospermia, oligozoospermia, mild azoospermia, or malformed spermatozoa (all P < .05). Sperm concentration, percentage of progressively motile sperm, serum ESRα level, and serum estradiol level did not differ significantly among the rs2234693 CC, CT, and TT genotypes.Elevated serum levels of estradiol and possibly ESRα might have a negative impact on sperm quality and fertility, whereas single nucleotide polymorphisms at rs2234693 of the ESRα gene had little or no effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongcheng Luo
- The Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, China
| | - Yanxin Huang
- The Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, China
| | - Mengran Han
- The Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, China
| | - Yanfang Pang
- The Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, China
| | - Pei Yu
- The Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, China
| | - Yujin Tang
- The Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, China
| | - Huixiong Yuan
- The Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, China
| | - Jie Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Xingyi People's Hospital, China
| | - Wencheng Chen
- The Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, China
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Qian YC, Xie YX, Wang CS, Shi ZM, Jiang CF, Tang YY, Qian X, Wang L, Jiang BH. Mkrn2 deficiency induces teratozoospermia and male infertility through p53/PERP-mediated apoptosis in testis. Asian J Androl 2021; 22:414-421. [PMID: 31489847 PMCID: PMC7406093 DOI: 10.4103/aja.aja_76_19] [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] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The apoptosis that occurs in the immature testis under physiological conditions is necessary for male germ cell development, whereas improper activation of apoptosis can impair spermatogenesis and cause defects in reproduction. We previously demonstrated that in mice, the makorin-2 (Mkrn2) gene is expressed exclusively in the testis and its deletion leads to male infertility. To understand the potential molecular mechanism, in this study, we found that levels of apoptosis in the testis were abnormally high in the absence of Mkrn2. To identify specific gene(s) involved, we performed digital gene expression profiling (DGE) and pathway analysis via gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) and the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) database, and we found that MKRN2 inhibits p53 apoptosis effector related to PMP22 (PERP) expression and that levels of the protein in sperm samples have an inverse correlation with infertility levels. GSEA additionally indicated that PERP is a negative regulator of spermatogenesis and that its ectopic expression induces male infertility. Further, Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) dataset analysis showed that p53, upstream of PERP, was upregulated in oligoasthenoteratozoospermia (OAT). These observations suggest that Mkrn2 is crucial for protecting germ cells from excessive apoptosis and implicate Mkrn2-based suppression of the p53/PERP signaling pathway in spermatogenesis and male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying-Chen Qian
- Department of Pathology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Yun-Xia Xie
- Department of Pathology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Chao-Shan Wang
- Department of Pathology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Zhu-Mei Shi
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Cheng-Fei Jiang
- Department of Pathology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Yun-Yi Tang
- Department of Pathology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Xu Qian
- Department of Pathology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Lin Wang
- The Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Bing-Hua Jiang
- Department of Pathology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China.,The Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China.,Department of Pathology, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
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Zanatta AP, Gonçalves R, Ourique da Silva F, Pedrosa RC, Zanatta L, Bouraïma-Lelong H, Delalande C, Mena Barreto Silva FR. Estradiol and 1α,25(OH) 2 vitamin D 3 share plasma membrane downstream signal transduction through calcium influx and genomic activation in immature rat testis. Theriogenology 2021; 172:36-46. [PMID: 34091204 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2021.05.030] [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: 11/14/2020] [Revised: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the rapid response pathway and gene and protein expression profiles of the rat testis in response to estradiol (E2) and 1α,25(OH)2 vitamin D3 (1,25-D3), to understand how they mediate their effects on the first spermatogenic wave. To do this, we compared the effects of 1,25-D3 and E2 on 45calcium(Ca2+) uptake and the involvement of estrogen receptors (ESR) in their rapid responses. Additionally, we studied the downstream signal transduction effects of 1,25-D3 and E2 on cyclin A1/B1 and cellular cycle protein expression. As previously observed for 1,25-D3, E2 also increased 45Ca2+ uptake in immature rat testes via voltage-dependent Ca2+ channels, Ca2+-dependent chloride channels and via the activation of protein kinase C, protein kinase A and mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase (MEK). Elevated aromatase expression by testes was observed in the presence of 1,25-D3 and both hormones decreased ESR mRNA expression. Furthermore, 1,25-D3 and E2 diminished cyclin A1 mRNA expression, but E2 did not affect cyclin B1 mRNA levels. Consistent with these findings, the immunocontent of cyclin A1 and B1 in the testes was also increased by 1,25-D3 and E2. 1,25-D3 increased expressions of the p16 and p53 proteins, supporting the anti-proliferative and pro-apoptotic properties of 1,25-D3, while E2 also augmented p16. Data indicate that both hormones trigger rapid responses at the plasma membrane that may control the expression of gene and proteins related to cell cycle regulation, and thereby modulate spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Paula Zanatta
- Laboratório de Hormônios & Transdução de Sinais, Departamento de Bioquímica, Centro de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, Santa Catarina, Brazil; Normandie Univ, UNICAEN, INRA, OeReCa, 14000, Caen, France
| | - Renata Gonçalves
- Laboratório de Hormônios & Transdução de Sinais, Departamento de Bioquímica, Centro de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | - Fabiana Ourique da Silva
- Laboratório de Bioquímica Experimental (LABIOEX), Departamento de Bioquímica, Centro de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | - Rozangela Curi Pedrosa
- Laboratório de Bioquímica Experimental (LABIOEX), Departamento de Bioquímica, Centro de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | - Leila Zanatta
- Departamento de Enfermagem, Centro de Educação Superior do Oeste, Universidade do Estado de Santa Catarina - UDESC, Chapecó, SC, Brazil
| | | | | | - Fátima Regina Mena Barreto Silva
- Laboratório de Hormônios & Transdução de Sinais, Departamento de Bioquímica, Centro de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, Santa Catarina, Brazil.
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11
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Casarini L, Lazzaretti C, Paradiso E, Limoncella S, Riccetti L, Sperduti S, Melli B, Marcozzi S, Anzivino C, Sayers NS, Czapinski J, Brigante G, Potì F, La Marca A, De Pascali F, Reiter E, Falbo A, Daolio J, Villani MT, Lispi M, Orlando G, Klinger FG, Fanelli F, Rivero-Müller A, Hanyaloglu AC, Simoni M. Membrane Estrogen Receptor (GPER) and Follicle-Stimulating Hormone Receptor (FSHR) Heteromeric Complexes Promote Human Ovarian Follicle Survival. iScience 2020; 23:101812. [PMID: 33299978 PMCID: PMC7702187 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2020.101812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Revised: 10/25/2020] [Accepted: 11/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Classically, follicle-stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR)-driven cAMP-mediated signaling boosts human ovarian follicle growth and oocyte maturation. However, contradicting in vitro data suggest a different view on physiological significance of FSHR-mediated cAMP signaling. We found that the G-protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER) heteromerizes with FSHR, reprogramming cAMP/death signals into proliferative stimuli fundamental for sustaining oocyte survival. In human granulosa cells, survival signals are missing at high FSHR:GPER ratio, which negatively impacts follicle maturation and strongly correlates with preferential Gαs protein/cAMP-pathway coupling and FSH responsiveness of patients undergoing controlled ovarian stimulation. In contrast, FSHR/GPER heteromers triggered anti-apoptotic/proliferative FSH signaling delivered via the Gβγ dimer, whereas impairment of heteromer formation or GPER knockdown enhanced the FSH-dependent cell death and steroidogenesis. Therefore, our findings indicate how oocyte maturation depends on the capability of GPER to shape FSHR selective signals, indicating hormone receptor heteromers may be a marker of cell proliferation. G-protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER) interacts with FSH receptor (FSHR) FSHR/GPER heteromers reprogram FSH-induced death signals to proliferative stimuli Anti-apoptotic signaling of heteromers is via a GPER-Gαs inhibitory complex and Gβγ Heteromer formation impacts follicle maturation and FSH responses of IVF patients
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Affiliation(s)
- Livio Casarini
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Ospedale Civile Sant'Agostino-Estense, Via P. Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy.,Center for Genomic Research, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Clara Lazzaretti
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Ospedale Civile Sant'Agostino-Estense, Via P. Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy.,International PhD School in Clinical and Experimental Medicine (CEM), University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Elia Paradiso
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Ospedale Civile Sant'Agostino-Estense, Via P. Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy.,International PhD School in Clinical and Experimental Medicine (CEM), University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Silvia Limoncella
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Ospedale Civile Sant'Agostino-Estense, Via P. Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy
| | - Laura Riccetti
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Ospedale Civile Sant'Agostino-Estense, Via P. Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy
| | - Samantha Sperduti
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Ospedale Civile Sant'Agostino-Estense, Via P. Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy.,Center for Genomic Research, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Beatrice Melli
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Ospedale Civile Sant'Agostino-Estense, Via P. Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy
| | - Serena Marcozzi
- Histology and Embryology Section, Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Claudia Anzivino
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Ospedale Civile Sant'Agostino-Estense, Via P. Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy
| | - Niamh S Sayers
- Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Jakub Czapinski
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland.,Postgraduate School of Molecular Medicine, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Giulia Brigante
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Ospedale Civile Sant'Agostino-Estense, Via P. Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy.,Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Francesco Potì
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Unit of Neurosciences, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Antonio La Marca
- Mother-Infant Department, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.,Clinica EUGIN, Modena, Italy
| | | | - Eric Reiter
- PRC, INRAE, CNRS, IFCE, Université de Tours, Nouzilly, France
| | - Angela Falbo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Fertility Center, ASMN. Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale - IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Jessica Daolio
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Fertility Center, ASMN. Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale - IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Maria Teresa Villani
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Fertility Center, ASMN. Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale - IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Monica Lispi
- International PhD School in Clinical and Experimental Medicine (CEM), University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.,Global Medical Affair, Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
| | | | - Francesca G Klinger
- Histology and Embryology Section, Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Fanelli
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.,Center for Neuroscience and Neurotechnology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Adolfo Rivero-Müller
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
| | - Aylin C Hanyaloglu
- Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Manuela Simoni
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Ospedale Civile Sant'Agostino-Estense, Via P. Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy.,Center for Genomic Research, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.,Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Modena, Modena, Italy.,PRC, INRAE, CNRS, IFCE, Université de Tours, Nouzilly, France
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12
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Gundewar T, Kuchakulla M, Ramasamy R. A paradoxical decline in semen parameters in men treated with clomiphene citrate: A systematic review. Andrologia 2020; 53:e13848. [PMID: 33108678 DOI: 10.1111/and.13848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2020] [Revised: 08/23/2020] [Accepted: 08/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Clomiphene, a selective oestrogen receptor modulator, has been utilised in managing male sub-fertility since 1967. Numerous controlled and uncontrolled studies have been published regarding the efficacy of clomiphene citrate in male sub-fertility cohorts. Although the primary intention of treating men with clomiphene citrate is to improve sperm parameters and testosterone levels, some studies have reported paradoxical decline in semen parameters. The information available on decline in sperm parameters following treatment with clomiphene is sparse. We conducted a systemic review using PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library and Scopus databases for original studies reporting adverse effects of clomiphene citrate therapy on sperm parameters. This systematic review includes 384 men from 11 different studies that reported adverse effects of clomiphene citrate therapy. Of the men included in these studies, 19%, 21%, 17% and 24% of clomiphene-treated men demonstrated a decrease in sperm count, concentration, motility and total motile sperm count respectively. In up to 17% of patients, deterioration of semen parameters did not recover following discontinuation of therapy. In the future, more studies should report on this aspect so the magnitude of this effect can be more clearly understood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tejas Gundewar
- Department of Reproductive Medicine & Surgery, Sri Ramachandra Medical College, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education & Research, Chennai, India
| | - Manish Kuchakulla
- Department of Urology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Ranjith Ramasamy
- Department of Urology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
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13
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Peña Barreno C, Gonzalez-Peramato P, Nistal M. Vascular and inflammatory effects of estrogen and anti-androgen therapy in the testis and epididymis of male to female transgender adults. Reprod Toxicol 2020; 95:37-44. [PMID: 32404255 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2020.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2019] [Revised: 04/05/2020] [Accepted: 05/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The volume of ubiquitous chemicals with estrogenic properties is on the rise and some reports relate the increase in hormonal diseases to these compounds. A morphological and immunohistochemical analysis has been performed on 42 bilateral orchiectomy specimens from adult individuals who underwent gender reassignment surgery after receiving crossed-sex hormone therapy to give insight into vascular, inflammatory and epididymal changes following long-term treatment with estrogens and antiandrogens and raise awareness of the consequences of hormone therapy. The present study confirms previously reported findings in testicular parenchyma and epididymis, such as identification of three histological patterns according to lesion severity and cell dedifferentiation, and reports for the first time vascular and inflammatory lesions (atherosclerosis and vasculitis), both on testicle and epididymis. Cross-sex hormone therapy should be provided in specialized units in order to systematize treatments and ensure adequate follow-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Peña Barreno
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Arzobispo Morcillo 4, 28029, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Pilar Gonzalez-Peramato
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Arzobispo Morcillo 4, 28029, Madrid, Spain; Department of Pathology, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Castellana 261, 28046, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Manuel Nistal
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Neuroscience, School of Medicine, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Arzobispo Morcillo 4, 28029, Madrid, Spain.
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14
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Xu HY, Zhang HX, Xiao Z, Qiao J, Li R. Regulation of anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) in males and the associations of serum AMH with the disorders of male fertility. Asian J Androl 2020; 21:109-114. [PMID: 30381580 PMCID: PMC6413543 DOI: 10.4103/aja.aja_83_18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) is a functional marker of fetal Sertoli cells. The germ cell number in adults depends on the number of Sertoli cells produced during perinatal development. Recently, AMH has received increasing attention in research of disorders related to male fertility. This paper reviews and summarizes the articles on the regulation of AMH in males and the serum levels of AMH in male fertility-related disorders. We have determined that follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) promotes AMH transcription in the absence of androgen signaling. Testosterone inhibits the transcriptional activation of AMH. The undetectable levels of serum AMH and testosterone levels indicate a lack of functional testicular tissue, for example, that in patients with anorchia or severe Klinefelter syndrome suffering from impaired spermatogenesis. The normal serum testosterone level and undetectable AMH are highly suggestive of persistent Müllerian duct syndrome (PMDS), combined with clinical manifestations. The levels of both AMH and testosterone are always subnormal in patients with mixed disorders of sex development (DSD). Mixed DSD is an early-onset complete type of disorder with fetal hypogonadism resulting from the dysfunction of both Leydig and Sertoli cells. Serum AMH levels are varying in patients with male fertility-related disorders, including pubertal delay, severe congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, nonobstructive azoospermia, Klinefelter syndrome, varicocele, McCune-Albright syndrome, and male senescence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui-Yu Xu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China.,Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100191, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing 100191, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Hong-Xian Zhang
- Department of Urology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Zhen Xiao
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - Jie Qiao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China.,Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100191, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing 100191, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Rong Li
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China.,Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100191, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing 100191, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology, Beijing 100191, China
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15
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Knockout of MCT1 results in total absence of spermatozoa, sex hormones dysregulation, and morphological alterations in the testicular tissue. Cell Tissue Res 2019; 378:333-339. [PMID: 31073907 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-019-03028-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2018] [Accepted: 04/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Lactate is a key metabolite for the normal occurrence of spermatogenesis. In the testis, lactate is produced by the Sertoli cells and transported to germline cells. Monocarboxylate transporters (MCTs) are key players in that process. Among the family of MCTs, MCT1 is at least partly responsible for lactate uptake by the germ cells. We aimed to perform a first assessment of the role of MCT1 in male reproductive potential. Mct1 conditional knockout (cKO) mice were used for morphometric evaluation, testicular morphology, and sperm parameter assessment. Serum steroid hormones levels were also measured. cKO animals showed a decrease in gonadosomatic index, testis weight, and seminiferous tubular diameters. Deletion of MCT1 also causes morphological changes in the organization of the seminiferous tubules and on Sertoli cell morphology. These changes resulted in failure of spermatogenesis with depletion of germ cells and total absence of spermatozoa. MCT1 cKO animals presented also hormonal dysregulation, with a decrease in serum 17β-estradiol levels. In conclusion, MCT1 is pivotal for male reproductive potential. Absence of MCT1 results in maintenance of undifferentiated spermatogonia pool and compromised sperm production.
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16
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ANKRD49 inhibits etoposide-induced intrinsic apoptosis of GC-1 cells by modulating NF-κB signaling. Mol Cell Biochem 2019; 457:21-29. [DOI: 10.1007/s11010-019-03508-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2018] [Accepted: 02/14/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
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17
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Sperm DNA Fragmentation: Mechanisms of Origin. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2019; 1166:75-85. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-21664-1_5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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18
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Parada-Bustamante A, Molina C, Valencia C, Flórez M, Lardone MC, Argandoña F, Piottante A, Ebensperguer M, Orihuela PA, Castro A. Disturbed testicular expression of the estrogen-metabolizing enzymes CYP1A1 and COMT in infertile men with primary spermatogenic failure: possible negative implications on Sertoli cells. Andrology 2017; 5:486-494. [PMID: 28334509 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2016] [Revised: 12/27/2016] [Accepted: 01/29/2017] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Estradiol (E2 ) is normally metabolized to hydroxyestradiols and methoxyestradiols by CYP1A1, CYP1B1 and COMT. However, an altered production of these metabolites by a disturbed expression of these enzymes is associated with reproductive and non-reproductive pathologies. In vitro studies suggest that increased hydroxyestradiols and methoxyestradiols intratesticular generation is related to male infertility, but no studies have explored whether infertile men have a disturbed testicular expression of the enzymes that generate these E2 metabolites. The aim of this study was to assess CYP1A1, CYP1B1 and COMT testicular expression at mRNA and protein level in men with spermatogenic impairment. Seventeen men with primary spermatogenic failure (13 with Sertoli cell-only syndrome and four with maturation arrest) and nine controls with normal spermatogenesis were subjected to testicular biopsy. mRNA was quantified using real-time RT-PCR and protein expression was evaluated using western blot and immunohistochemistry followed by integrated optic density analysis. Besides, the effects of hydroxyestradiols and methoxyestradiols on testosterone-induced transcriptional activity were evaluated in TM4 cells using a luciferase reporter assay system. Our results show that patients with Sertoli cell-only syndrome had significantly elevated COMT expression at the mRNA level, higher COMT immunoreactivity in their seminiferous tubules and increased protein expression of the soluble COMT isoform (S-COMT), whereas patients with maturation arrest had significantly elevated CYP1A1 mRNA levels and higher CYP1A1 immunoreactivity in interstitial space. Finally, 2-hydroxyestradiol decreased testosterone-induced transcriptional activity in Sertoli cells in vitro. In conclusion, male infertility is related to disturbed testicular expression of the enzymes responsible for producing hydroxyestradiols and/or methoxyestradiols. If these changes are related with increased intratesticular hydroxyestradiols and methoxyestradiols concentrations, they could elicit an impaired Sertoli cell function. Our results suggest CYP1A1 and COMT as new potential targets in treating male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Parada-Bustamante
- Institute of Maternal and Child Research, School of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - C Molina
- Institute of Maternal and Child Research, School of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - C Valencia
- Institute of Maternal and Child Research, School of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - M Flórez
- Institute of Maternal and Child Research, School of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - M C Lardone
- Institute of Maternal and Child Research, School of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - F Argandoña
- Institute of Maternal and Child Research, School of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - A Piottante
- Pathology Department, Clínica Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
| | - M Ebensperguer
- Urology Department, San Borja-Arriarán Clinical Hospital, Santiago, Chile
| | - P A Orihuela
- Laboratory of Reproductive Immunology, University of Santiago and CEDENNA, Santiago, Chile
| | - A Castro
- Institute of Maternal and Child Research, School of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
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19
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Panigrahi SK, Manterola M, Wolgemuth DJ. Meiotic failure in cyclin A1-deficient mouse spermatocytes triggers apoptosis through intrinsic and extrinsic signaling pathways and 14-3-3 proteins. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0173926. [PMID: 28301569 PMCID: PMC5354389 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0173926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2016] [Accepted: 02/28/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Cyclin A1 (Ccna1), a member of the mammalian A type cyclins, is most abundantly expressed in spermatocytes and is essential for spermatogenesis in the mouse. Ccna1- deficient spermatocytes arrest at late meiotic prophase and undergo apoptosis. To further delineate the mechanisms and key factors involved in this process, we have examined changes in expression of genes involved in both intrinsic and extrinsic signaling pathways that trigger apoptosis in the mutant spermatocytes. Our results show that both pathways are involved, and that the factors involved in the intrinsic pathway were expressed earlier than those involved in the extrinsic pathway. We have also begun to identify in vivo Ccna1-interacting proteins, using an unbiased biochemical approach, and identified 14-3-3, a key regulator of apoptosis, as a Ccna1-interacting protein. Expression levels of 14-3-3 proteins remain unchanged between wild type and mutant testes but there were differences in the subcellular distribution. In wild type control, 14-3-3 is detected in both cytosolic and nuclear fractions whereas it is restricted to the cytoplasm in mutant testes. This differential distribution of 14-3-3 may contribute to the induction of apoptosis in Ccna1-deficient spermatocytes. These results provide insight into the apoptotic mechanisms and pathways that are triggered when progression through the meiotic cell cycle is defective in male gametogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunil K. Panigrahi
- Departments of Genetics & Development, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Marcia Manterola
- Departments of Genetics & Development, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York, United States of America
- Program of Human Genetics, ICBM, Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Debra J. Wolgemuth
- Departments of Genetics & Development, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York, United States of America
- Obstetrics & Gynecology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York, United States of America
- Institute of Human Nutrition, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York, United States of America
- Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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20
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Leavy M, Trottmann M, Liedl B, Reese S, Stief C, Freitag B, Baugh J, Spagnoli G, Kölle S. Effects of Elevated β-Estradiol Levels on the Functional Morphology of the Testis - New Insights. Sci Rep 2017; 7:39931. [PMID: 28045098 PMCID: PMC5206739 DOI: 10.1038/srep39931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2016] [Accepted: 11/28/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Elevated estradiol levels are correlated with male infertility. Causes of hyperestrogenism include diseases of the adrenal cortex, testis or medications affecting the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal axis. The aim of our study was to elucidate the effects of estradiol treatment on testicular cellular morphology and function, with reference to the treatment regimen received. Testes samples (n = 9) were obtained post-orchiectomy from male-to-female transsexuals within the age range of 26–52 years. Each patient had a minimum of 1–6 years estradiol treatment. For comparison, additional samples were obtained from microscopically unaltered testicular tissue surrounding tumors (n = 7). The tissues obtained were investigated by stereomicroscopy, histochemistry, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and immunohistochemistry. Our studies revealed that estradiol treatment significantly decreased the diameter of the seminiferous tubules (p < 0.05) and induced fatty degeneration in the surrounding connective tissue. An increase in collagen fiber synthesis in the extracellular matrix (ECM) surrounding the seminiferous tubules was also induced. Spermatogenesis was impaired resulting in mainly spermatogonia being present. Sertoli cells revealed diminished expression of estrogen receptor alpha (ERα). Both Sertoli and Leydig cells showed morphological alterations and glycoprotein accumulations. These results demonstrate that increased estradiol levels drastically impact the human testis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myles Leavy
- School of Medicine and Medical Science, University College Dublin (UCD), Dublin, Ireland
| | - Matthias Trottmann
- Department of Urology, Klinikum Grosshadern, University of Munich, Germany
| | - Bernhard Liedl
- Department of Urogenital Surgery, Clinics for Surgery Munich-Bogenhausen, Munich, Germany
| | - Sven Reese
- Institute of Veterinary Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, University of Munich, Germany
| | - Christian Stief
- Department of Urology, Klinikum Grosshadern, University of Munich, Germany
| | - Benjamin Freitag
- Department of Urology, Klinikum Grosshadern, University of Munich, Germany
| | - John Baugh
- School of Medicine and Medical Science, University College Dublin (UCD), Dublin, Ireland
| | - Giulio Spagnoli
- Department of Biomedicine, University Hospital Basel, Switzerland
| | - Sabine Kölle
- School of Medicine and Medical Science, University College Dublin (UCD), Dublin, Ireland
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21
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Morini M, Peñaranda DS, Vílchez MC, Tveiten H, Lafont AG, Dufour S, Pérez L, Asturiano JF. The expression of nuclear and membrane estrogen receptors in the European eel throughout spermatogenesis. Comp Biochem Physiol A Mol Integr Physiol 2017; 203:91-99. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2016.08.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2016] [Revised: 08/03/2016] [Accepted: 08/24/2016] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
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22
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The protective effect of regucalcin against radiation-induced damage in testicular cells. Life Sci 2016; 164:31-41. [PMID: 27620963 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2016.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2016] [Revised: 09/05/2016] [Accepted: 09/07/2016] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
AIMS Regucalcin (RGN), a protein broadly expressed in the male reproductive tract, has shown to have beneficial effects on spermatogenesis suppressing chemical-induced apoptosis. This study aimed to evaluate whether RGN overexpression ameliorates the spermatogenic phenotype after radiation treatment. MAIN METHODS Transgenic rats overexpressing RGN (Tg-RGN) and their wild-type (Wt) counterparts were exposed to a single dose of X-rays (6Gy), and at ten weeks after irradiation, the testicular status and the epididymal sperm parameters were evaluated. The expression of RGN and several cell cycle and apoptosis regulators, the enzymatic activity of caspase-3, and RGN immunostaining were also assessed. KEY FINDINGS Tg-RGN animals displayed higher gonadosomatic index, and augmented sperm viability and motility relatively to their Wt counterparts after irradiation, as well as higher frequency of normal sperm morphology and a diminished incidence of head-defects. The differences in reproductive parameters were underpinned by a lower rate of apoptosis, as evidenced by the reduced activity of caspase-3, lower levels of caspase-8, and increased Bcl-2/Bax ratio in the testis of Tg-RGN animals. Supporting the involvement of RGN in the anti-apoptotic response, an enhanced expression of RGN was observed in irradiated rats. SIGNIFICANCE Transgenic-overexpression of RGN protected against radiation-induced testicular damage, which strengthens the role of this protein protecting cells from the damage of external agents. These findings also indicated that the modulation of RGN testicular levels would be a mechanism for fertility preservation in men undergoing oncological treatment.
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Ham S, Brown KA, Simpson ER, Meachem SJ. Immunolocalisation of aromatase regulators liver kinase B1, phosphorylated AMP-activated protein kinase and cAMP response element-binding protein-regulated transcription co-activators in the human testis. Reprod Fertil Dev 2016; 29:RD15390. [PMID: 26946412 DOI: 10.1071/rd15390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2015] [Accepted: 02/04/2016] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Although oestrogens are essential for spermatogenesis and their biosynthesis is dependent on aromatase expression, the molecular mechanism of aromatase regulation is poorly understood. Our laboratory has demonstrated that liver kinase B1 (LKB1) is a negative regulator of aromatase in the breast by phosphorylating AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and inhibiting the nuclear translocation of the cAMP response element-binding protein-regulated transcription co-activator (CRTC) 2. The aim of this study was to determine the location of testis-associated proteins in the LKB1-CRTC pathway. Aromatase, LKB1, phosphorylated AMPK (pAMPK) and CRTC1-3 were examined by selected immunofluorescent antibodies in testis samples from a prepubertal boy and three fertile men. Aromatase, pAMPK and LKB1 proteins were present in the seminiferous epithelium and interstitium of the testis and were expressed in a differential and developmental manner in particular cell types. The expression pattern of LKB1 was similar to that of pAMPK and inversely related to aromatase expression. CRTC1 and CRTC3 were localised in the seminiferous epithelium, whereas CRTC2 was barely detectable in testis. These results lead to the conclusion that LKB1 is involved in the molecular pathway that underpins aromatase regulation in the testis via CRTC1 and CRTC3 and may be important for the oestrogen-mediated development of germ cells.
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Figueira MI, Correia S, Vaz CV, Cardoso HJ, Gomes IM, Marques R, Maia CJ, Socorro S. Estrogens down-regulate the stem cell factor (SCF)/c-KIT system in prostate cells: Evidence of antiproliferative and proapoptotic effects. Biochem Pharmacol 2015; 99:73-87. [PMID: 26592659 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2015.11.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2015] [Accepted: 11/13/2015] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
The development of prostate cancer (PCa) is intimately associated with the hormonal environment, and the sex steroids estrogens have been implicated in prostate malignancy. However, if some studies identified estrogens as causative agents of PCa, others indicated that these steroids have a protective role counteracting prostate overgrowth. The tyrosine kinase receptor c-KIT and its ligand, the stem cell factor (SCF), have been associated with the control of cell proliferation/apoptosis and prostate carcinogenesis, and studies show that estrogens regulate their expression in different tissues, though, in the case of prostate this remains unknown. The present study aims to evaluate the role of 17β-estradiol (E2) in regulating the expression of SCF/c-KIT in human prostate cell lines and rat prostate, and to investigate the consequent effects on prostate cell proliferation and apoptosis. qPCR, Western Blot, and immuno(cito)histochemistry analysis showed that E2-treatment decreased the expression of SCF and c-KIT both in human prostate cells and rat prostate. Furthermore, the diminished expression of SCF/c-KIT was underpinned by the diminished prostate weight and reduced proliferation index. On the other hand, the results of TUNEL labelling, the increased activity of caspase-3, and the augmented expression of caspase-8 and Fas system in the prostate of E2-treated animals indicated augmented apoptosis in response to E2. The obtained results demonstrated that E2 down-regulated the expression of SCF/c-KIT system in prostate cells, which was associated with antiproliferative and proapoptotic effects. Moreover, these findings support the protective role of estrogens in PCa and open new perspectives on the application of estrogen-based therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marília I Figueira
- CICS-UBI-Health Sciences Research Centre, University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506 Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Sara Correia
- CICS-UBI-Health Sciences Research Centre, University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506 Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Cátia V Vaz
- CICS-UBI-Health Sciences Research Centre, University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506 Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Henrique J Cardoso
- CICS-UBI-Health Sciences Research Centre, University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506 Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Inês M Gomes
- CICS-UBI-Health Sciences Research Centre, University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506 Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Ricardo Marques
- CICS-UBI-Health Sciences Research Centre, University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506 Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Cláudio J Maia
- CICS-UBI-Health Sciences Research Centre, University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506 Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Sílvia Socorro
- CICS-UBI-Health Sciences Research Centre, University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506 Covilhã, Portugal.
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